Louisiana State Police/CID/Detectives-Monroe Field Office (LSP MFO) have continued the investigation into the September 8, 2024, homicide that occurred in the 200 block of Thomas Street in Tallulah. The incident claimed the life of 24-year-old John Ward Jr. of Texas.
As the investigation progressed and with the information obtained, LSP MFO secured arrest warrants from the 6th Judicial District Court and arrested the following individuals:
21-year-old Javion Nelson of Delhi for second-degree murder and obstruction of justice
26-year-old Gerald Albert of Tallulah for illegal carrying and discharge of a weapon and possession of a firearm by a person convicted of certain felonies
33-year-old Ta’Niqua Brazil of Tallulah for obstruction of justice, aggravated second-degree battery, and false swearing for the purpose of violating public safety
39-year-old Deontay Willmore of Tallulah for obstruction of justice
Each subject was arrested without incident and booked into the Madison Parish Detention Center. The investigation remains active and ongoing. No further information is available at this time.
See below for the initial news release.
REGION 3 NEWS RELEASE
September 8, 2024
Louisiana State Police Investigating Madison Parish Homicide
Tallulah – On Sunday, September 8, 2024, at approximately 1:50 a.m., Louisiana State Police/CID/Detectives-Monroe Field Office (LSP MFO) were requested by the Madison Parish Sheriff’s Office (MPSO) to investigate a homicide that occurred inside the city limits of Tallulah.
The preliminary investigation revealed that a shooting occurred in the 200 block of Thomas Street, which resulted in the death of one subject.
LSP MFO will serve as the lead investigating agency, with MPSO assisting. The investigation remains active and ongoing. No further information is available at this time.
Anyone with information and/or pictures and video is urged to share that information with LSP Detectives. The Louisiana State Police online reporting system is available to the public through a convenient, anonymous, and secure reporting form that is submitted to the appropriate investigators. The form can be accessed by visiting lsp.org and clicking the Report Suspicious or Criminal Activity, or calling the LSP Fusion Center Hotline at 1-800-434-8007.
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Lue Charles Napper was born in Simsboro on February 13, 1948, and passed away at his home in Ruston on September 13, 2024. His parents were Harold and LaRue Napper. He attended Simsboro schools until moving to Ruston at 16 years old. Then attended Ruston High School where he graduated. He attended Louisiana Tech University. After going on the first Louisiana Tech Rome trip, he and Becky Marbury Napper found each other and were engaged in December of 1969 and married in January of 1971. They both graduated with degrees in Business from Louisiana Tech in November of 1970.
Lue worked part time at First National Bank while at Tech. The president of the bank was the chairman of the Peach Festival and volunteered him to work at the Pageant. Several years later Lue was asked to be the Executive Director of the Pageant. Along with Judy Burt and David Hedgepeth he ran the Pageant for over 50 years. He was also on the committee that founded the America’s Outstanding Teen Pageant and ran the pageant in Ruston until it was taken over by the Miss Louisiana System. After he retired from the Peach Pageant, he served on the board of the Miss Louisiana Pageant.
He and Becky initiated The Marbury Lecture Series at Louisiana Tech University in 2006, and it is ongoing in its 18th year. It honors the late William and Virginia Marbury and is sponsored by the College of Business Louisiana Tech and Cedar Creek School in Ruston. They also provided funds for a special lab in the college of education honoring the late Harold and LaRue Napper and provided funds for the walk of honor in the Tech Field House. They continue to support the Marbury Scholarships given through the Louisiana Tech Alumni Foundation.
Lue was a deeply dedicated husband, father, and grandfather who enjoyed attending every competition his son had and loved watching his grandson Camdyn compete at swimming as well. He was a talented artist who had much admiration for both artwork and the performing arts. He was a faithful member of the Episcopal Church of the Redeemer in Ruston since he was married.
Lue is survived by his wife Becky Napper, son Lomax Napper, grandson Camdyn Napper, brothers Jimmy Napper (Charlotte Napper) and Marshall Napper (Paula Napper), as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents Harold and LaRue Napper and his granddaughter Hope Marbury Napper.
Services for Lue Charles Napper are as follows. The visitation will be at the Episcopal Church of the Redeemer Ruston on Tuesday, September 17 from 5:00-7:00 pm. The Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be at the Episcopal Church of the Redeemer Ruston on Wednesday, September 18 at 10:00 a.m.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Louisiana Methodist Children’s Home, Cedar Creek School, 4-Paws Rescue, and Louisiana Tech University.
(This is one of our profiles on this year’s recipients selected by an anonymous committee out of an extensive list of nominees for the 2024 Lincoln Leader Award. The Lincoln Parish Journal thanks Mayor Ronny Walker and the Ruston-Lincoln Chamber of Commerce for their support of this award. We would like to thank Kevin Hawkins at HawkinsPhoto.com for the headshots).
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Name: Krystal Sno Cruse
Age: 38
Employer: Louisiana Tech University
Title: Assistant Professor of Mechanical Engineering
Hometown: Thibodaux
Years Living in Ruston: 20 years
Civic Volunteer Organizations: Faculty Advisor for the Society of Women Engineers (SWE) Director of the Office for Women in Science and Engineering (OWISE) First-Year Projects Showcase (Engineering) where I engage the local community with Tech’s campus while highlighting our first-year engineering student projects Member of the American Society for Engineering Education Active member and contributor to the Ruston Tennis Community Member of the Louisiana Tech Leadership Institute (LTRI) class of 2022-23 Attendee of First Baptist Ruston
Professional Highlights: Receiving a National Science Foundation grant for $1.5mil that helps support low-income, academically talented engineering students pursue college
Helping the College of Engineering and Science become a Kern Engineering Entrepreneurial Network which helps provide resources to the college for developing the best engineering and brings funds to the college that faculty can access for engineering education initiatives
Guiding and managing the innovative First-Year Engineering Program as the Coordinator
Hosting the First-Year Projects Showcase where over 80 first-year engineering student teams showcase their design projects to over 80 invited judges from the community
Providing female faculty across campus with monthly luncheons to build community and professional development
Providing female students with monthly engagement, enrichment, and professional development opportunities through activities and invited guest speakers from the community
Starting the INSPIRE program that helps foster community with female faculty and students while also building confidence in using fabrication equipment
Being the Ph.D. Advisor to five graduate students and leading them as they develop professionally and academically
Receiving the University’s F.J. Taylor Undergraduate Teaching Award in Fall of 2023
Heath Tims, CEO of Louisiana Tech Alumni Association and Associate VP of the Division of University Engagement, on Krystal Sno Cruse:
Krystal is a great leader at Louisiana Tech and also the surrounding community. Her deep commitment to educational outreach has been demonstrated from the K12 all the way through the university level. Her dedication has not only shaped the futures of countless K12 students but also revolutionized the learning experience for thousands of engineering students at Louisiana Tech. Her leadership in the College of Engineering and Science’s Living With the Lab program brings hands-on experiential learning to students. Krystal’s influence as a mentor, advisor, and curriculum developer is already evident and will undoubtedly continue to impact generations to come.
Q&A with Krystal Sno Cruse:
What makes Lincoln Parish special?
While Lincoln Parish merges rural and small-town charm with vibrant, modern opportunities that extend beyond its scenery, landmarks, and its role as the home of two major universities, it’s the people who live here and are connected to the parish that truly make it special. As someone who came to Ruston as an outsider, I was welcomed with open arms, and over time, this community has become my true home. From professors who invested in my academic growth to friends who have become like family to meeting my husband and starting our family together, the people of Lincoln Parish have embraced me.
This parish is more than just a place on the map; it’s a community where connections run deep, where people support each other, and where newcomers are made to feel like lifelong residents. The warmth, kindness, and genuine care of the people here have shaped my journey and made Lincoln Parish a place I’m proud to call home. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or a transplant like me, the sense of belonging and the strong community bonds are what make Lincoln Parish truly special.
How do you see your role/place in making our parish such a wonderful place to call home?
As an engineering professor at Louisiana Tech University, I see my role as twofold in making Lincoln Parish a wonderful place to call home. Every fall, our community welcomes nearly 12,000 students from across the state and nation. These students, though they may be seen as temporary residents, bring an incredible energy that helps define our parish.
However, they also face challenges like homesickness and the need to find their place in a new environment. Having experienced this myself as a student who came from somewhere five hours away, I understand the importance of feeling welcomed and connected. I’m committed to being there for my students, not only as their professor but also as a mentor who helps them feel a sense of belonging in our community. I strive to make them feel at home here in Ruston and Lincoln Parish, showing them that they are a vital and necessary part of our community.
At the same time, I’m dedicated to building and growing my own family in this parish. My goal is to contribute to a welcoming, supportive environment where both my students and my family can thrive. By fostering strong connections between the University and the broader community, I hope to play a part in making Lincoln Parish a place where everyone—whether they’re here for a short time or a lifetime—feels like they belong.
Who has played a role in your professional development and why?
Several influential people have played pivotal roles in my professional development, but two stand out: Dr. Heath Tims and Dr. David Hall.
After I graduated with my undergraduate degree, Dr. Heath Tims encouraged me to pursue my PhD under his guidance. From the start, he treated me as an equal, not just a student. He included me in many initiatives, particularly in the field of engineering education, which helped ignite my passion for student outreach and engagement. Through our work together, I developed a strong foundation that has allowed me to grow into a contributing faculty member of the College of Engineering and Science. Today, I oversee the First-Year Engineering Program, a cornerstone of our college that regularly draws students to Louisiana Tech.
Dr. David Hall has been a mentor to me for the past eight years and has supported and guided me in my role with the first-year engineering program. Following his example, I have grown as a leader and manager, achieving things I never thought possible. Recently, Dr. Hall encouraged me to pursue a competitive National Science Foundation grant to support low-income, academically talented students in pursuing their engineering degrees based on a pilot program I developed. Being awarded this grant has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my professional life, opening many opportunities and underscoring my commitment to student success.
Both Dr. Tims and Dr. Hall have been instrumental in mentoring me in my career, and their support has had a lasting impact on my professional journey.
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After an almost two-month suspension of its recycling program, the City of Ruston will restart it next week after finding a sole source provider just south of Little Rock, Arkansas.
Following a fire June 12 that destroyed the processing center in Kilgore, Texas, that the city had been using, the City was forced to suspend recycling August 1 while it searched for an optional recycling plant.
Ruston Mayor Ronny Walker said Thursday that the City will now utilize Waste Management in Arkansas for all of its recycling and that the program would begin on September 19th.
“The City will be restarting our recycling next weekend just like we have in the past,” said Walker. “We realize that some people have been using their recycling bins as garbage since we suspended the program in early August.
“Thus we are asking them if they have to take both their garbage cans and their recycling bins filled with a combination of recyclables and garbage out to the street on the next garbage pickup day for them. We want to totally clean those recyclable bins out so they can start fresh with the program.”
Walker said residents need to put both bins at least three feet apart to make it easier for the garbage trucks.
“This new company has some different rules,” said Walker.
No bags allowed (trash bags, grocery bags, etc.) as they get caught up in the conveyor belts
People should not bag their recyclable materials; instead let all the materials be loose within the bin
will take normal plastic, cardboard, paper, tin cans, etc.
No glass allowed
Walker said people who utilize the program will not see a charge on their electric bill until October.
Although the recycling plant is about an hour further away than the previous plant used in Kilgore, Texas, Walker believes if residents utilize the program correctly, it could actually cost less.
“If we can get more people recycling and those people utilize it properly, we believe the cost to the City will actually be reduced,” said Walker.
Walker said in July that the city had about 800 recycling customers, most of whom are within the city limits.
“We collect 150 tons of recyclables every year,” Walker said.
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Courtesy of Louisiana Tech University Communications
Louisiana Tech had plenty to celebrate in its 2024 football season home opener, including some difference-making alumni from the University’s College of Applied and Natural Sciences.
Among the things to cheer in the Aug. 31 opener:
the on-the-field 25-17 victory over defending Southland Conference champion Nicholls State;
an enthusiastic crowd of nearly 17,000 students and fans at Joe Aillet Stadium, despite a second-quarter rainstorm and Fall Quarter not yet in session;
richly deserved recognition of and free tickets for First Responders, the police, fire, and medical personnel who serve and protect the Ruston community;
and a highlighted appreciation for some special heroes who serve ANS, the first of the University’s five colleges to be highlighted, one during each home game this fall.
“When we learned that the theme of the game was Hometown Heroes, we thought this was a great opportunity to recognize our own hometown heroes,” Dr. Jamie Newman, associate professor of biology in the School of Biological Sciences and the associate dean for research in ANS, said. “We couldn’t recognize everyone, so we decided to really celebrate those alumni who give back to our local community and our Louisiana Tech community through funding scholarships, through giving of their time as part of our alumni mentoring program, and through sharing their expertise as guest lecturers.”
“Due to the applied nature of the academic programs in the College of Applied and Natural Sciences, alumni engagement and support play critical roles for the success of our students,” ANS Dean Dr. Gary Kennedy said. “Whether it is through support and donations for scholarships, equipment, supplies or facilities, the engagement of alumni assists our students in realizing their full academic and professional potential. Engaged alumni also support our future generations of professionals through mentoring and sharing of their expertise with current Tech students.”
ANS chose to highlight health care providers among the generous alumni who are helping foster the next generation of Tech students.
“It was an honor for our College to have the chance to invite a few of these alumni out on to the field so that they could be celebrated, not only by us but by so many who they have served in the community,” Newman said. “It was also so fun to see them visit with each other. They talked about shared experiences at Louisiana Tech, even if they attended at different times. It is this same common experience that they share with our current students, and that has such an impact on students and faculty.”
During one of the season-opening game’s timeouts, a one-minute video highlighting the value of The ANS Alumni Mentoring Program played on Joe Aillet Stadium’s new giant video board. Created in 2020 to keep Tech students connected with the campus and professional community, the Mentoring Program is a way for many students, especially those pursuing a career in health care, to shadow Tech professionals during clinical hours.
“Connecting these students with our alumni during those early days of the pandemic provided an invaluable resource of support and encouragement as they attempted to stay on track to achieving their goals,” Newman said. “Over the past four years, we have continued to partner current students with our alumni so that they can seek advice, opportunity, and connection over the shared experiences of classes in Carson-Taylor and student life at Louisiana Tech. Our mentees and their mentors continue to stay in touch, and we have seen the program benefit the students, alumni, and our campus.”
One video segment featured Health Hut Director Dr. Jackie White and Administrator Chelsea Mayfield, each a Tech alumna. A free Ruston clinic supported through the Lincoln Health Foundation, the Health Hut offers opportunities for Tech students to volunteer and shadow care providers.
“Not only do our students have the chance to engage and give back to the community, they also see how their Louisiana Tech degree can take them and see how they can continue giving back even after they graduate,” Newman said. “Dr. White and Mrs. Mayfield have also come to campus to as guest speakers for classes and student organizations.”
Also featured were Shreveport internal medicine physician Dr. Steen Trawick (Class of ’91) and graduate school student Aleena Gibbons (Class of ’25).
“By getting to be a part of this wonderful program, we’re able to provide our students this guidance and assist them with whatever they need,” Trawick said. “That’s been so valuable; nothing happens in our lives without someone investing something positive back into us.”
“Having alumni give something back to Louisiana Tech has been such a strong resource for me,” Gibbons said. “I definitely wouldn’t be where I am without that.”
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Courtesy of Louisiana Tech University Communications
Dr. Joan Lynam’s Biomass Lab in Louisiana Tech University’s College of Engineering and Science has developed a method for growing healthy, vibrant crops without the weight of soil, meaning plans to send crops to the moon within the next decade are more realistic than ever.
The team—Lynam (chemical engineering program chair and associate professor), Dr. Muhammad Aamir Iqbal (Fulbright postdoctoral fellow), and Mohammad Tarikuzzaman (PhD student in micro and nanoscale systems engineering)—has devised a method to recycle urine into water and use the waste byproducts as plant fertilizer, creating soilless plants. Their goal is to create an easy, sustainable source of water and growth on the moon’s surface with implementation potential in the areas of lunar and deep-space farming.
This project is funded by NASA, specifically NASA LaSPACE, the Louisiana branch of the agency. By partnering with and providing funding to Louisiana Tech, the agency hopes to accelerate and elevate the research required for human beings to not only survive in space but live there.
The technology and research for the concept are already widespread. The practice involves providing plant nutrients (nitrogen, potassium, carbon, etc.) in a purely water-based environment, akin to placing a rose in a vase full of water. In this experiment’s case, the water contains enough nutrients for the plants to live and grow.
What gives this research an edge over other soilless-based research is its sustainability. In space, there are no clear or easy supply lines, so using everything for as long as it can be used is key to the astronauts’ survival. Lynam’s team’s research has demonstrated they can recycle urine back into water while converting the salt-rich waste, known as urea, into fertilizer for the soilless plants. If done correctly, Lynam and her team theorize that this could be a way for astronauts to recycle drinking water and sustainably and indefinitely create fertilizer for plants in space.
This experiment’s long-term objective is to help astronauts survive in lunar environments.
“If all goes well, these techniques could be put in space in approximately six years,” Lynam said.
This quick timeline has excited her team, with all participants feeling proud that their work could help future generations live in space.
“Turning waste into usable and sustainable products will make the world greener and cleaner,” Tarikuzzaman said. “It’s a rewarding project with incredibly far-reaching impacts; we hope to make a difference for the planet and beyond.”
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The Lincoln Parish Journal is providing our local schools with an opportunity to submit nuggets from what’s going on at their respective schools in order to get more information out on their students, faculty and staff. The information below comes directly from those schools. Any school wishing to provide content each week can email to flynnhl@warhawks.ulm.edu
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High Schools
Ruston High School
The Ruston High Bearcats took on the Cabot Panthers on Tuesday the 10th at Hoss Garrett Stadium!
Our Freshman and JV Bearcat Volleyball team have their Bearcat Brawl this Saturday at Ruston High.
They will also take on Northwood at home on Monday the 16th; JV at 6:00, and Varsity at 7:00.
The Teacher of the Week this week is Mrs. Pierce! Mrs. Pierce is in her 7h year of teaching, with 5 of those at RHS. She teaches AP Human Geography! We appreciate you Mrs. Pierce!
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Elementary Schools
Choudrant
Our 3rd annual Purple and White Night will be on Friday, October 18th. Elementary students have the opportunity to play basketball with their coaches being our very own Simsboro Tiger Basketball players! We are excited for this community event!
Our Junior High Lady Tigers won the basketball championship at the Choudrant tournament this past weekend!
A.E. Phillips
On Tuesday, September 3rd, we had our first pep rally of the year! Our cheerleaders did a fantastic job cheering at getting our students pumped up.
We recognized our Volleyball team, our Teachers of the Year, and our students who earned a PERFECT score on the 2024 LEAP test! The school spirit was loud and proud!
Our Volleyball team continues to work hard each week. We are proud of their progress and work ethic!
This week students in 6th, 7th, and 8th grade were invited to try out for the basketball team. Rosters will be announced at the end of the week. We are looking forward to a great basketball season for our Bullpups.
On Wednesday, September 11th we held our annual Patriot Day Program honoring our local first responders and remembering those who lost their lives in service during the horrific terrorist attacks. We are thankful for the wonderful turnout of parents, special guests, and first responders. We are also grateful to Judge Jeff Robinson for serving as our guest speaker who encouraged us to learn from the example set by our first responders who show great love for their brother in their daily service. We are thankful to Mr. Rivera, our school counselor, for his leadership in making this event happen each year. Our students and teachers also play a role in the event from welcoming guests on the sidewalk, making appreciation posters, singing in the school choir, or speaking in the program. We look forward to this event each year and strive to teach our Bullpups the importance of this day and to never forget.
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High school students from Lincoln and Jackson Parish had the chance to network and explore future career and educational opportunities during the College and Career Fair hosted at Louisiana Tech University. The event brought together representatives from local businesses, colleges, and vocational institutions, offering students a glimpse into the wide range of paths available after graduation.
Juniors and seniors from schools across Lincoln Parish attended the college and career fair, engaging with professionals from different industries and educational programs to better understand their post-graduation options. Whether interested in pursuing higher education or entering the workforce, students had the opportunity to ask questions, gather information and gain insight into their future. Senior Associate Director of Admissions, Megan Fair explained how the fair benefits students in the area.
“It gives the students of Lincoln parish exposure to not only Louisiana Tech, but other 4-year institutions, technical, 2-year options, branches of service and companies in the parish,” Fair said. “It gives our more rural area students a chance to see what opportunities are out there outside of our local universities.”
The Louisiana Tech student center was lined with tables, featuring informational booths each showcasing college programs, local businesses, military service opportunities, and other post-graduation options.
Students moved from booth to booth, speaking to local educators and business professionals about their future plans and careers. Ruston High School Senior, Masey Ingram described how the college and career fair helped her to learn more about how to pursue her goals.
“I attended the college and career fair tonight at Tech to help me make a more informed choice of where I want to continue my education. This event helped me learn more about the universities that I have interest in and also taught me more about the application process, which is very beneficial as a senior this year,” Ingram said. “My future educational goals are to further my education at a college after high school. I am currently undecided on what major I want to partake in. But going to events like the college and career fair really helps me as I look more into the majors that each college provides. I am sure that I will find the right fit for me.”
The fair featured booths from Louisiana Tech University’s many colleges, including their College of Liberal Arts, College of Engineering and Science, College of Applied and Natural Sciences, College of Business, and College of Education and Human Sciences. Other booths included several other universities and community colleges, as well as branches of military and companies with job opportunities.
College and career fairs like these provide soon-to-be graduates with valuable information on future educational paths, jobs, and career options. Juniors and seniors are able to network with professionals and potential employers to get a better understanding of the opportunities available in their community.
Whether considering college, vocational training, or entering the workforce directly, students benefit from exposure to a range of possibilities they may not have previously considered. Overall, it is important for students to attend these fairs because they provide a foundation to help students transition from high school to the next part of their life with knowledge and purpose.
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A teacher at the Downsville Community Charter School was arrested Thursday after allegations he threatened students in his class.
Robert Mitcham, 70, of Ruston, was charged with terrorizing according to the Union Parish Sheriff’s Office.
On September 10, the UPSO was contacted by a concerned parent of a DCCS student. Deputies were told Mitcham, a physical education teacher, became angry during class and allegedly told his third grade students he “had bullets for his gun and he would bring it to the school and shoot.”
According to UPSO, the parent told deputies the child was afraid as were other students in the class.
UPSO said deputies began an investigation and interviewed students who witnessed the incident. A press release from UPSO said the statements corroborated the original complaint and that Mitcham allegedly told the students there were “too many of y’all to get rid of” and he “only had six bullets in his gun.”
UPSO investigators said they spoke with Mitcham who stated he felt overwhelmed and wanted the children to settle down and that he was not threatening them.
Witnesses stated when an older student told another teacher, Mitcham then apologized to the students, according to UPSO.
DCCS Executive Director Tony Cain said he could not comment in detail because the incident is a personnel matter involving legal issue.
However, he said rumors in the community and even some of the comments cited in the UPSO press release are not consistent with what the eyewitnesses to the incident have told the school.
“School administration was made aware last Thursday after school that some students were alleging that the teacher made some concerning comments in class,” Cain wrote in a statement. “Administration immediately investigated the situation. The school is not legally allowed to publicly comment on the details of this situation.
“However, we do want to make it clear that the allegations by the parent reporting to the Union Parish Sheriff’s Office and those in social media are NOT consistent with the firsthand accounts provided to school staff from the students who actually witnessed the incident. We feel confident that the students were truthful and accurate with their accounting of the incident.”
UPSO requested a warrant for terrorizing and one was issued by a Third District Court judge. Mitcham was arrested in Lincoln Parish yesterday by the Ruston Police Department and booked at the Union Parish Detention Center, charged with terrorizing. Mitcham’s bail was set at $15,000.
A condition of bail was set by the judge barring Mitcham from returning to the DCCS campus pending the outcome of this case.
Cain confirmed that Mitcham has been relieved of classroom duties for the time being.
In the press release, Union Parish Sheriff Dusty Gates reminded parents, students, and teachers that DCCS has two school resource officers on campus every day.
“Please utilize these officers to discuss any concerns, especially those of planned acts of violence. Additionally, anonymous tips can be submitted online via the Safe Schools Louisiana app or website, the UPSO app, or through Crime Stoppers of Union Parish.”
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Lincoln Prep running back Jaylin Huntley (3) is pictured racing 55 yards to paydirt during Thursday night’s 48-0 win over Magnolia School of Excellence. (Photo by T. Scott Boatright)
By T. Scott Boatright
GRAMBLING — A driving, heavy drizzle that fell throughout the first half failed to dampen Lincoln Preparatory School’s scoring parade Thursday night as the Panthers roared past Magnolia School of Excellence 48-0 at Panthers Field.
Lincoln Prep scored fast and furiously early on, capitalizing on an early Jaylin Huntley interception to score the game’s opening touchdown on a 13-yard scoring run by D’Tavion Wright, who also ran in the two-point conversion, for an 8-0 advantage only 1:40 into the contest.
A bad snap over the Magnolia punter’s head on the ensuing drive was turned into a scoop and score by the Panthers’ Marquez Ellison, who ran it more than 25 yards to paydirt to push the lead to 16-0 at the 7:12 mark of the first quarter.
The Panthers made it 22-0 with 3:38 left in the opening stanza when Huntley broke loose on a 55-yard scoring scamper.
Lincoln Prep got the ball back for its next possession on Verlanski Glosson’s first interception of the contest before Wright raced 11 yards for his second score to put the Panthers on top 30- only seven seconds into the second quarter,
Wright hit paydirt for a third time with 4:50 remaining in the first half to push the Panthers’ lead to 36-0 before Glosson scored on a one-yard run to put Lincoln Prep on top 42-0 with 3:21 left in the first half.
That 42-point lead started a running clock the rest of the game.
“They were running hard, both of them,” Hall said of his senior running back duo of Wright and Huntley. “They can both pound it up in there and then break it outside. We are fast. We have two fast backs. We have just got to do a better job on the line of giving them creases to go through. But once they get through those creases, it is hard to catch them.”
The Panthers scored their final touchdown at the 9:30 mark of the third quarter as Glosson hit the end zone on a 10-yard run.
Lincoln Prep would hold Magnolia out of the end zone the rest of the game despite the fact the Mariners had a couple of chances they failed to capitalize on.
“They made a couple of big plays because we made mistakes,” Hall said. “But then we made some big plays to stop them and keep them out of the end zone. And I was proud of that. Anytime you get a shutout, that is a big thing. It is a confidence builder.”
Glosson made two of those big plays for the Panthers’ defense with a pair of late interceptions to finish with three picks and a sack to go along with his two rushing touchdowns.
“I think Verlanski played a great game,” Hall said. “We have been looking at putting him (on offense) and doing some different things with him. And it worked out. We will be able to use him in different situations against better teams. And now we know he really wants to run the ball.
“Now we have two Wildcat quarterbacks with him and D’Tavion. We have been letting him take snaps up under center because having a running quarterback can really help you.”
Next up for Lincoln Prep will be a contest at Beekman Charter, which opened the season with a 26-18 win at Delhi and will play host to Tensas tonight.
Hall said he realizes that he has to get his team to put the big win over the Mariners behind them and start preparing for Beekman Charter.
“That’s a once in a season game,” Hall said. “We came out and the other team was short-handed. I have been there and done that and I understand the process. But now we have to get ready to play everybody else. Beekman has a good team, and we have to be ready to play them (next week) and rise up to the challenge of people who are going to play us hard.”
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RUSTON, La. — Following an exciting week one win, the 2024 Ruston High Bearcats (1-0) will remain at home for the second straight week to take on the Cabot Panthers from Cabot, Ark.
The matchup will be the first of four-straight weeks where Ruston will play an out-of-state opponent.
And despite the win, Ruston High head coach Jerrod Baugh has hoped that his team has focused after a rough start to the week in practice.
“It wasn’t a very good week, to be honest,” Baugh said. “I don’t know if its some hangover from winning a really big ball game– I don’t know if that bled over into this week or what, but we did not have particularly good preparation early in the week. It has gotten better as the week has gone on. I thought (Thursday) was good. We just hope the kids are taking care of the things they need to mentally, and hopefully we’re ready to play tonight.
“It’s always a learning process on how to handle big wins or losses and being able to move on from that. And you’ve got to be able to move one way or the other, whether it’s good or bad. So, hopefully, we’ve kind of learned our lesson as the week has gone on, and we hope that we don’t have to learn it the hard way.”
Ruston’s 35-27 victory Friday night over Acadiana was helped in large part by senior quarterback Josh Brantley, who threw for 195 yards with two touchdowns through the air and 11 rushes for 160 yards and two more touchdowns on the ground.
“Josh did really well,” Baugh said. “His attitude and leadership have grown– that’s what’s really pushing a lot of those things. At the end of last year, he got more and more comfortable with things we were asking him to do. And going into this season, he just picked up where he left off.”
Another bright spot for the Bearcats was a young defense that held its own against an historically proficient offense in the Wreckin’ Rams at the end of the game to solidify the win.
Baugh also talked about all sides of the football, including special teams, and the plan to address any inconsistencies from last week.
“Anytime you play really good competition, it puts a magnifying glass on the things that you need to continue to improve on,” Baugh said. “Our consistency is not where it needs to be. We go out one series and look really good, and then the next, not as good. That’s the biggest thing. We weren’t very good on our team at all, and that’s something that we have really focused on this week to try to make sure we get it corrected. We’re headed in that direction.”
Cabot won a squeaker Friday night in overtime at Bentonville West High School 44-38. Ruston has beaten Cabot for the last two seasons in a row — first in 2022 by a final score of 17-14 with a Bearcat field goal as time expired, and then on the road in 2023 by a final score of 28-17.
Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. at James Field at Hoss Garrett Stadium. The game will be broadcast live on Q94.1 FM and at BearcatNationNetwork.com.
Cason Floyd (7) and Trigger Woodard (9) look to strike paydirt tonight when the Cougars host Delhi. (Photo by Darrell James)
by Malcolm Butler
Cedar Creek head coach William Parkerson is experiencing something he has never dealt with in his football career … as a player or a coach.
But the second-year Cougars sideline boss is staying positive and optimistic with his young team, knowing brighter days are ahead.
Through a scrimmage (vs. Lakeside), a jamboree (vs. OCS) and its season opener (at Delhi Charter), the Cougar varsity has struggled on both sides of the football.
However, Parkerson knows there is only one solution.
“I have never dealt with this type of start coaching or playing,” said Parkerson. “But our mindset is we have to focus on us, and we have to keep getting better. I know to the naked eye it probably doesn’t look like there has been progress, but we can see from the scrimmage to last week we have gotten better.
“We will continue to get better. We just have to carry it over. Keep grinding and keep working and good things are eventually going to happen for us.”
Parkerson and the Cougars hope things take another step forward tonight when they host Delhi at 7 p.m. at Cougar Field at Origin Bank Stadium.
“Practice has been good,” said Parkerson. “We have had a few good days and hopefully it will carry over to (tonight), and we will play well and come out with a win.”
“Our guys all know they can play better. We have to coach better, and they have to play better. Everybody needs to be better. If we all take care of that we will be fine.”
Cedar Creek is coming off a 40-0 loss at Delhi Charter in its opener while Delhi lost 26-18 to Beekman Charter.
The Cougars are still looking for their first points of the young season and will face an athletic Bears defense this week. Last Friday Creek drove inside the redzone a couple of times, but were unable to find paydirt in the loss to Delhi Charter.
“Delhi will run a 4-2-5 and play man coverage,” said Parkerson. “Their strong safety is their primary quarterback and he is their best player on defense. They have one really good interior defensive lineman. And they have a lot of team speed.”
Senior James Myers led the Cougars in the opener, rushing six times for 46 yards. And Parkerson said the Cougars could get a boost offensively tonight as sophomore Wyatt Gremillion may return to the lineup. Gremillion has missed all three of the Cougars “games” with a hamstring injury.
“He would be a jolt of energy if we can get him back,” said Parkerson. “He is a kid who can flip the filed on somebody. We are going to try to give him between 10 and 20 snaps because he won’t be in great football shape. But 10 to 20 snaps would be great for us.”
Defensively, the Cougars need to continue to make strides, especially in consistency. At times Creek has made plenty of plays, but their inability to get off the field due to surrendering big plays has been an achilles heel.
That unit will have its work cut out for it tonight against a Delhi team that likes to get its quarterback in space.
“They want to spread you out so they can run the football,” said Parkerson. “Their quarterback is their primary ball carrier. They go into empty sets more than any team that I have ever coached against. They are really trying to spread the field and get people out of the box so they can run the football.
“We have to set the edge and rally to the football.”
The contest can be heard on 99.3 FM with Ray Creasy and Ben Haddox providing a call of the action.
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“We don’t understand it, but your muffler is disintegrating from the inside.”
For once the description of the sound the truck was making was congruent with the sound the truck made. Many times, you try to describe a noise to the service technician and the vehicle won’t cooperate, but Saturday it did.
“Eventually your muffler will disintegrate, and your truck will become very loud.”
There are two ways you know you are old. The first way is when you don’t like the idea of your truck being loud. When you are old, you want the muffler to silence the sound. Loud and old don’t mix, whether in music or in clothing selection. The other way one notes their arrival at old age happens in elevators. If you hear Muzak playing in the elevator, and it is the same music of your adolescence, you are old. If your parents said, “Turn that garbage down!” And you hear that music playing at the doctor’s office, you are old.
Saturday, Muzak was playing at the car dealership as the service man described the disintegrating muffler. I am old. I was wondering if a loud truck would be accepted in a funeral procession. Would the truck be heard pulling into the parking lot on Sunday morning? What would the Baptists think? What would the Catholics say?
How much to fix a disintegrating muffler? It was going to be expensive because rotting from the inside was not covered under any warranty.
How is your muffler?
The diagnosis of a muffler disintegrating from the inside was spiritually enlightening.
Do you know what it feels like to rot from the inside? Discouragement is interior rot. You start out with faith, hope, and love and if you don’t constantly stay centered in Christ, the world can whittle away at all three. You start disintegrating spiritually. Discouragement most often happens when you get something fixed into your head and heart rather than seeking out what God would have you do. Most often you are discouraged when God is not doing things your way.
The other thing you might discover is that when your muffler disintegrates you become loud. That seems to be the gist of public discourse today, just getting louder than the other side. Conversation has been replaced by competition and ideas are rapidly giving way to idiocy.
There is a verse of scripture that comforts and confronts at the same time. The same eight words can bug the fool out people with disintegrating mufflers and offer hope to those who want their muffler restored. If you need faith, hope, and love restored, hear the word of the Psalmist:
“Be still and know that I am God.”
I get it, Lord.
Will you help me repair my muffler?
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When most people think of art, they likely imagine paintings hanging on a wall or a sculpture proudly displayed in a museum. Art, however, can expand beyond just the visually appealing and can make quite an impact on our world in many ways. Local artist Bette Kauffman is one such artist trying to use her skill to expand the research and awareness of our natural world.
Originally from Washington County, Iowa, Bette has lived in the area for 27 years. The primary focus of her work is centered on documentary and photographic art. According to Kauffman, she began taking photographs in her adolescence.
Bette eventually went on to study photojournalism at the University of Iowa in the 80s. “I began to view my photography as having aesthetic merit, and won a couple of accolades during that period,” explains Kauffman. However, she says it wasn’t until around 2016 that she began to call her works “art.”
In addition to her B.A. in Journalism from the University of Iowa, Bette also attained an M.A. and Ph.D. in Communications from the University of Pennsylvania, but her growth as an individual and artist didn’t stop there. She has received 22 awards for her works that have been showcased across six states as well as online.
Kauffman says she loves doing wet darkroom photography as well as printing and framing her own art. Among her favorite supplies are her precision-cut archival mats as well as vintage wooden frames.
Bette says she is inspired by the beauty all around her. “Human behavior is not always beautiful, but this universe and much of what humans have created is,” she explains. She goes on to say that whether she is out in the woods, the swamp, or walking down a city street she sees beauty, especially in the details of things, and she tries to capture it with her camera. She believes that art allows her to attempt to share with others the beauty she finds in the world we live in.
She says that what is equally important to her as being recognized as an artist is the fact that she is a Master Naturalist as well as a photographer. Bette uses her photography to contribute to citizen science by posting her photo observations on the iNaturalist platform as well as donating photographs to various natural history projects. For example, she has several photos in a field guide to Arkansas trees, vines and shrubs and in a few scientific articles whose authors reached out requesting to use her illustrations for their science. “Using my photography to also contribute to the conservation and flourishing of our gorgeous planet is part of what makes me tick,” says Kauffman.
Bette says that among the artists who inspire her works are Georgia O’Keeffe, who could draw a banana plant or paint a landscape pregnant with the human condition, and Margaret Bourke-White, who saw beauty in industry. As for her own process, Kauffman says she almost always shoots outdoors, therefore she believes in being prepared. This includes her equipment and making sure it’s easily portable and that her attire is appropriate. “In the field with a camera, I don’t want to have to worry about anything except looking, seeing, and being open to what’s in front of me,” says Bette.
Kauffman says that the Universe is sacred, and beauty is all around us. She believes that Humankind’s greatest joy and responsibility is to sustain and contribute to these facts. Art is a great way to do that. Bette submits her art to national and international juried exhibitions, and typically has pieces in several such shows at once. She currently has pieces in eight shows including five pieces in separate online shows, one piece is in a gallery in Northport, NY, and one piece in a gallery in Santa Fe, NM. The eighth show is the West Monroe mayor’s office lobby featuring three of her pieces.
You can follow Bette’s photography blog at edge-essence.com/blog/ as well as her profiles on Facebook and Instagram at Edge & Essence: photography by Bette J. Kauffman.
A Ruston man was arrested Tuesday on drug charges and outstanding warrants following a traffic stop.
Roy Lee Williams, 40, was operating a vehicle on South Farmerville Street in Ruston about 12:30 p.m. on September 10, according to a Lincoln Parish deputy’s report. The deputy ran the license plate on the vehicle and determined it was uninsured.
Once Williams was stopped, it was learned his driver’s license was under suspension and he was wanted on two warrants for failure to appear in Ruston City Court.
Williams was arrested and a search of his vehicle located a backpack containing two bags of cocaine and two bags of marijuana. A bag of methamphetamine was found under the driver seat.
Williams was booked at the Lincoln Parish Detention Center for possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, possession of cocaine with intent to distribute, possession of drug paraphernalia, driving under suspension, no liability insurance, and the two Ruston warrants.
Bail was set at $45,000.
This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named or shown in photographs or video as suspects in a criminal investigation, or arrested and charged with a crime, have not been convicted of any criminal offense and are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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Each Monday and Friday, the Lincoln Parish Journal will post a list of non-for-profit upcoming events happening in the parish. If you would like to add your event to this list or advertise your for-profit events, please email us at lpjnewsla@gmail.com. Friday, Sept. 13 6-8 p.m.: Line Dancing (Lincoln Parish Library) 7 p.m.: Ruston High football game 7 p.m.: Cedar Creek football game 7 p.m.: Lincoln Prep football game Saturday, Sept. 14 Grand Slam Baseball (Ruston Sports Complex) 8:30-11:30 a.m.: Hazardous Waste Material Collection and Recycling (2609 Farmerville St.) 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Farmers Market Sunday, Sept. 15 Grand Slam Baseball (Ruston Sports Complex)
Bigger question. Are you ready to win $200 in cash … with the potential to make it $400 if you are perfect on the week (including predicting the No. 1 tiebreaker exactly right).
The Lincoln Parish Journal is proud to host the Karl Malone Toyota College Football Pick’em Contest presented by Northern Louisiana Medical Center and Johnson Physical Therapy.
If you live in the deep south, you know College Football is King!
Readers are eligible to participate and each week one lucky winner will go home with a $200 cash prize (maybe $400). Each week the winner will be the participant with the best record out of the predetermined 15 college football games (ties will be broken by two separate tiebreakers consisting of guessing the total points scored in two of our weekly contests).
Only one entry per participant will be accepted each week.
The Karl Malone Toyota College Football Pick’em Contest presented by Northern Louisiana Medical Center and Johnson Physical Therapy will be conducted for 14 regular season weeks of the college season starting with this week’s games.
There is no entry fee, just like there is no cost to SUBSCRIBE to the Lincoln Parish Journal where it will come to your inbox every weekday morning at 6:55 a.m. It takes 20-30 seconds to sign up and not much longer than that to make your picks.
All contest decisions by LPJ management are final. Weekly winners will be notified Monday and will be requested to take a photo that will run in the following week’s LPJ.
Every participant will receive a FREE subscription to the Journal, if you’re not already signed up for the easily-navigated, convenient 6:55 a.m. daily e-mail. Enjoy it all, for FREE, and enter each week’s contest. You could collect $200 each week!
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Louisiana Tech’s Director of Track & Field/Cross Country, Brian Johnson, announced the addition of Joseph Blue as an assistant coach.
Blue oversees the throws after spending the last two seasons at California State University Northridge.
During his two seasons at CSUN, Blue coached 15 Big West All-Conference performers and the 2024 conference champion in the women’s shot put while also coaching the 2024 conference women’s discus runner-up.
A 2015 CSUN graduate, Blue returned to Northridge from Cal Poly Pomona, where he spent six seasons mentoring the Bronco throwers. In 2022, Cal Poly Pomona accounted for 77 points and produced conference champions in the men’s shot put and the men’s discus at the CCAA Championship as the Broncos won the men’s CCAA title for the first time since 1998.
The Cal Poly Pomona women’s throwers scored 61 points, while Ana Tovi won the CCAA title in the discus and shot put as the Broncos’ women won their first league title in 24 years. Tovi earned second-team Division II All-American honors in the discus and placed 13th in the shot put.
In 2019, Blue helped Tovi break a 31-year-old school record in the discus, finishing 14th at the NCAA Division II Outdoor Championships, and eighth at the USATF U-20 Championship. 2019, Blue also guided Aaron Guerra to third at the CCAA’s and earned USTFCCA All-West Region honors.
In Blue’s first year (2018), he led Jenna Gonzales to an NCAA provisional-qualifying mark of 45.89 meters, currently sixth in school history. Collectively, between the men’s and women’s teams, the Broncos earned six All-CCAA honors at the 2018 CCAA Championships to finish the year.
Before arriving at CPP, Blue spent two seasons at Southern Arkansas University. In 2016, Blue made an immediate impact with the SAU track and field throws, multis, and high jumpers. Freshman Sinclair Pitts earned First Team All-GAC in the Hammer throw with a third-place Conference finish at the 2016 Great America Outdoor Track & Field Championships. Freshmen Anna Murphy and Chioma Akolam placed second and third in discus at the 2016 Great America Outdoor Track & Field Championships.
Also, Blue coached Erica Fuller to a first-place Great American Conference Title in the Hammer Throw in 2017. In total, Blue has coached 16 Men All-GAC Honors 2016-2017 seasons, 19 Women All-GACHonors 2016-2017 seasons, one GAC Champion (Women’s Hammer), two GAC Athlete of Week Honorees, and six school records were broken.
Blue competed for CSUN from 2014-15, recording a best of 53-8 1/2 in the shot and 141-8 in the discus. He qualified for the Big West Championship in both seasons, finishing 13th in the shot as a senior. Blue began his collegiate career at Fresno State, where he placed sixth in the discus at the 2012 WAC Outdoor Championship and eighth in the shot at the 2013 Mountain West Outdoor Championship.
Since graduating from CSUN with a Bachelor of Arts in Communications, Blue earned his master’s in College Counseling and Student Affairs.
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Louisiana Tech’s volleyball team is looking to bounce back when they host the Battle for the Boot at the Thomas Assembly Center on September 13-14.
The Battle for the Boot is in its third year and offers teams from Louisiana a chance to play each other close to home. All four teams have participated each year, with Southeastern hosting the first tournament and Northwestern State hosting last season’s event.
Tech hosts Southeastern tonight at 6 p.m. and then will host Northwestern State Saturday at 11 a.m. and Southern at 2:30 p.m.
“It feels great to get a break from traveling and get to compete at home this weekend,” said Tech head coach Amber McCray. “Our annual Battle of the Boot tournament provides three opportunities for us to compete against in-state teams and student-athletes we are very familiar with. We have been working all week to clean up areas that most plagued us last weekend, namely our offense and ability to score points by staying aggressive in all aspects of the game.
“We know we can be more disciplined from the start of each match, and especially in the red zone when we need the extra push to finish. This weekend provides a valuable opportunity bounce back, and I’m excited to see us do just that. “
Louisiana Tech (3-4) is coming off the Wooo Pig Invitational, where they lost to Little Rock, Rutgers, and No. 21 Arkansas.
Giulia Bonifacio continues to lead the Bulldogs’ offensive attack. The junior transfer has led Tech in kills in six of the seven matches this season. Her 3.05 kills per set are eighth in the conference.
Rori Gray continues to leave her mark as one of the top freshmen. She currently ranks 27th in the nation and second in the conference with a .442 hitting percentage, the top freshman in the country. She also ranks 22nd in the conference with 2.21 kills per set.
On the defensive side of the ball, Charlize Williams averages 1.05 blocks per set, ranking eighth in the league.
After McKenzie Johnson suffered a season-ending injury, Riley Steubing stepped up for the Bulldogs at Libero. In two sets against Little Rock, the sophomore finished with 15 digs for a new career high. She would break that mark with 18 against Rutgers and lead the team with 11 against No. 22 Arkansas.
Southeastern (3-4) has reached the NCAA Tournament in each of the last two seasons but are off to a slow start due to the departure of key contributors.
After dropping their first four matches of the season, Southeastern has won three straight heading into the Battle for the Boot.
Northwestern State (4-3) is another team that has been making adjustments this season. Northwestern State started the season 4-1 with a win against UL-Lafayette but has lost two straight, including falling to Grambling on Tuesday night.
Southern (1-6) has struggled out the block but hope their win against New Orleans propels them into a winning streak.
Dawn Barnes is leading the Jaguars in her first year in Baton Rouge. Barnes came to Southern after spending last season at Phoenix College and has made stops at South Carolina State, Chicago State, and Howard.
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Edwin L. Gaskin November 29, 1933 – September 9, 2024 Visitation: Fellowship Baptist Church, Friday, September 13, 2024, 10:00 am – 11:00 am Service: Fellowship Baptist Church, Friday, September 13, 2024, 11:00 am Cemetery: Evergreen Baptist Church Cemetery, Friday, September 13, 2024
DeQuincy Holyfield Monday 08/28/1972 — Thursday 09/05/2024 Visitation: Friday 09/13/2024 3:00pm to 6:00pm at King’s Funeral Home Funeral Service: Saturday 09/14/2024 11:00am at King’s Funeral Home Interment: Saturday 09/14/2024 Following Service, Mt. Pleasant Cemetery, Lisbon
(This is one of our profiles on this year’s recipients selected by an anonymous committee out of an extensive list of nominees for the 2024 Lincoln Leader Award. The Lincoln Parish Journal thanks Mayor Ronny Walker and the Ruston-Lincoln Chamber of Commerce for their support of this award. We would like to thank Kevin Hawkins at HawkinsPhoto.com for the headshots).
_________________________________________________
Name: Chris Holtzclaw
Age: 35
Employer: Argent Financial Group, Inc.
Title: Chief Fiduciary Officer – West Region
Hometown: Arcadia, LA
Years Living in Ruston: 7
Civic Volunteer Organizations: First Baptist Church, Deacon; United Way of Northeast Louisiana, Campaign Vice Chair; Cedar Creek School Board of Directors; DART
Professional Highlights: Participating in the opening bell ringing ceremony at the NYSE with my Argent colleagues in January of 2023; awarded the peer-voted Argent Commitment to Excellence awards in 2020 and 2022.
Kyle McDonald, CEO fo Argent Financial Group, on Chris Holtzclaw:
“Chris has made significant positive impacts on Argent’s client services and our culture since he joined us. That has led Chris to increasing roles of responsibility in which he has performed extremely well.
“More importantly, he has continued to grow a great family, serve his faith through church leadership and a community men’s Bible study, and make other meaningful community and industry contributions. The staff of Argent is proud of Chris and we are his biggest cheerleader.”
Q&A with Chris Holtzclaw:
What makes Lincoln Parish special?
The people of Lincoln Parish. Lincoln Parish is supported by a network of civic, nonprofit, religious, and business organizations that work together to support and uplift the community every day. Every success of Lincoln Parish – big or small – is a “win” that is celebrated. As a product of Cedar Creek School and Louisiana Tech University, returning to the community I love was a top priority following law school. My wife, Dannah, and I were fortunate to relocate to Ruston in 2017. We have felt the love and support of this community since that time and delight in raising our four children here. The strong sense of community is what makes Lincoln Parish special and an ideal place to raise a family.
How do you see your role/place in making our parish such a wonderful place to call home?
I will continue to volunteer for causes that are making a positive difference in Lincoln Parish, support our local businesses and schools, and be a voice of positivity and encouragement for local leadership. Our community is fortunate to have so many organizations who provide support and improve the lives of our residents, businesses that deeply care about their employees and the community, and local leadership that continues to increase the quality of life for Lincoln Parish residents.
Who has played a role in your professional development and why?
I have been fortunate to work alongside many community-minded and accomplished individuals throughout my career. While I could certainly name a few, Kyle McDonald has played an outsized role in my professional development. As a successful entrepreneur who founded Argent over 30 years ago, Kyle exemplifies Argent’s motto of “Humble Confidence.” Approachable, genuine, and fair are the attributes that he displays each day as the leader of Argent. Additionally, Kyle’s ability to prioritize his family and community alongside his business serves as a great example of balance in life and work. I am inspired by Kyle and many others in Lincoln Parish who put family and community above business and self. As I continue to advance in my career, I am driven to emulate these leadership qualities at home, in our community, and in the workplace.
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Local first responders were given a heartfelt thank-you by students on the morning of September 11th at A.E. Phillips Laboratory School during their annual Patriot Day program.
The event honored local fire and law enforcement officers, as well as members of the Louisiana National Guard, in recognition of their service.
The program began with opening remarks from A.E. Phillips Director Jenny Blalock, followed by students recounting the tragic events of 9/11. The Bullpup Choir then delivered moving renditions of several patriotic songs, including “This Land is Your Land” and “God Bless the USA.”
Judge Jeff Robinson then spoke about importance of remembering 9/11 and honoring the brave men and women who serve our communities.
“This is a day that we should never forget. It’s one of those days where you know where you were when it happened. I was at my office in Jonesboro when I heard the news. I turned on the TV and I couldn’t believe my eyes,” Robinson said. “First responders have a very special place in our hearts. That’s what we want to honor today, those people who stand in harm’s way for us and what they do for us.
“I’m going to quote scripture from the Bible here to say it best. John 15:13 says ‘greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.’ These guys go out every day and put their lives in harm’s way. They show that love that the Bible talks about, what it means to put others needs before themselves.”
Present members from each of the recognized agencies were then presented with handmade posters created by students from different grade levels. Representative students from each grade proudly brought their class posters forward, personally thanking the first responders for their service and dedication.
Agencies that were honored at the Patriot Day Program included the Ruston Fire Department, Lincoln Parish Fire Department, Lincoln Parish Office of Homeland Security, Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s Department, Louisiana Tech Police Department, Ruston Police Department, Louisiana National Guard, Ruston Marshall’s Office, and the Louisiana State Probation and Parole Board. Several current and former A.E. Phillip parents were specially recognized and thanked for their appearance at the program.
Each year, the A.E. Phillips Bullpups learn about the significance of 9/11 and dedicate time to honor the sacrifices made for our country. This commitment is expressed through their annual Patriot Day program, where they directly thank the heroes in the Lincoln Parish community. Director Jenny Blalock emphasized the importance of educating students about the events of 9/11 and the need to express gratitude for those who serve.
“A commitment was made, in 2001, by the faculty and staff of A.E. Phillips to always remember the loss and sacrifice associated with September 11th, to educate our Bullpups about the events and implications of this day in history, and to convey sincere appreciation to our local heroes for the commitment they make to protect us,” said Blalock.
“The current faculty and staff are continuing to honor this commitment of those who came before us because we believe in this charge. We believe it is important to always be thankful to those that serve our school and community. September 11th is a perfect day to express our gratitude to first responders for the way they selflessly put others before themselves.”
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