By Kyle Roberts

BOSSIER, La. — Ruston High (3-3) picked up its third straight victory Thursday afternoon, knocking off undefeated Minden High (9-1) in the opening round of the Doc Edwards Tournament on the campus of Airline High School by a final score of 54-36.

The Bearcats were also boosted by the return of senior guard Aidan Anding, who was cleared to play before the contest with the Tide after precautions following a football injury earlier this month. He finished with 12 points, including two three-pointers on the night.

“I told the guys before the game that Minden was undefeated for a lot of reasons: they run a really good offense and play extremely hard on defense,” Ruston High assistant coach Corey Deans said. “I knew the guys we were bringing into the game could match (Minden’s) intensity, but when Aidan showed up, it put us over the top. He bring a lot of confidence to the guys — it’s almost like watching your big brother showing up to the playground.”

Deans talked, too, about what having Anding back will do for the team longterm in the lineup.

“(Having Anding back) puts everybody back into their natural positions,” Deans said. “Aidan is now guarding the other team’s best player. And it really caused problems on the defensive end because (Minden) was unable to run their offense. He made it difficult for them to get into their sets.”

Ruston took a three-point lead after the first quarter 14-11. Both teams scored eight points in the second quarter giving Ruston a 22-19 lead at the half.

Following a 10-point performance in the third, Ruston lead 32-27 before an explosive fourth quarter of 22 points to just eight for Minden.

Ruston High sophomore Ahmad Hudson finished the night with 19 points, scoring 11 in the fourth quarter to help seal the Bearcat victory. Sophomore Keshun Malcolm added 11 overall.

The Bearcats return to action today at Benton High School for a 10:30 a.m. tip off against the Benton Tigers.

This year’s Doc Edwards tournament features 18 teams on the boys’ side. A complete bracket is included below.

 

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Bobbie Jo Blackburn Mohn passed away on December 24, 2024 in Ruston, LA after a brief illness.  She was born in Saginaw MI to the union of Douglas J and Gloria Jean Yanna Blackburn on February 16, 1976.  She and her husband lived in Bernice, LA prior to moving to Ruston. 

Bobbie loved dancing and listening to music. Her kids and grandkids were her life and she loved them dearly.  Bobbie also loved nature and being outdoors. She would give the shirt off of her back to help anyone.  She was a great woman.

Bobbie is survived by her loving husband, Alan Mohn, her two children:  Alan Mohn, Jr. and Vanessa Foster and her three grandchildren:  Apollo, Grayson and Annalise.  She is also survived by other relatives and many friends.

The family will hold a private memorial service as Bobbie had requested.  In lieu of flowers. please make donations to the funeral home.

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Lillian Cottingham 
Thursday 07/24/1924 — Wednesday 12/18/2024 Age: 100 
Visitation: Friday 12/27/2024 3:00pm to 5:00pm at King’s Funeral Home 
Funeral Service: Friday 12/27/2024 5:00pm at King’s Funeral Home 
Private Burial 

David “West” Vaughan 
June 29, 1973 – December 20, 2024 
Visitation: Kilpatrick Funeral Homes – Monroe, Sunday, December 29, 2024, 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm 
Service: Kilpatrick Funeral Homes – Monroe, Sunday, December 29, 2024, 2:00 pm 

Ruby Kelly 
Sunday 08/07/1949 — Saturday 12/21/2024  
Visitation: Friday 12/27/2024 3:00pm to 6:00pm at King’s Funeral Home 
Funeral Service: Saturday 12/28/2024 11:00am, New Rocky Valley Baptist Church, 2155 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave., Grambling 
Interment: Saturday 12/28/2024 Following Service, Grambling Memorial Garden, Highway 80 West, Grambling  

Nathaniel Burks 
Sunday 06/10/1962 — Saturday 12/21/2024 Age: 62 
Visitation: Friday 12/27/2024 3:00pm to 6:00pm at King’s Funeral Home 
Funeral Service: Saturday 12/28/2024 11:00am, Zion Traveler Baptist Church, 1201 Martin Luther King Drive, Ruston 
Interment: Saturday 12/28/2024 Following Service, Grambling Memorial Garden, Highway 80 West, Grambling  

Nancy Gale Monk 
December 30, 1944 – December 22, 2024 
Funeral Service: Friday, December 27, 2024, 10:00 AM, First Baptist Church of Bernice, 502 Cherry St., Bernice 
Cemetery Committal: Friday, December 27, 2024, Pisgah Cemetery, Pisgah Ch. Rd., Bernice 

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By Kyle Roberts

RUSTON, La. — It’s impossible to walk in downtown Ruston and miss the Waltz Pharmacy at the  intersection of North Trenton St. and West Mississippi Ave.

Nestled in the corner by the red light, the bright white sign has welcomed countless patients for nearly 53 years into Waltz’s care for needed medications, apothecaries, knick-knacks and of course, cold Coca Cola’s.

And now, Phil Waltz will finally go into retirement today after years and years of service to the city and community he loves dearly.

A 1965 graduate from Ruston High School, Waltz spent two years at Louisiana Tech and finished pharmaceutical school at Northeast Louisiana State College (now UL-Monroe) in 1970 — then had to wait until he was 21 years old to take the state board test. Waltz then served as a pharmacist first at Lincoln General Hospital Pharmacy and Baton Rouge General Hospital Pharmacy before opening the well-known institution that was Waltz & Brazell Pharmacy for years.

“My first goal coming out of school was to take care of folks, no matter where I was,” Waltz said. “I wanted to take care of the folks that wanted to come here and do that in the best way that I could.”

And take care of folks, he did, from the moment his pharmacy first opened on May 1, 1972, all the way through today’s closing time. Waltz added that his favorite part was enjoying the friendships with his customers along the way.

Retired Lincoln/Union Parish Judge and Louisiana Supreme Court Justice Joe Bleich was one of those friends. Carrying a box of a dozen donuts for an anticipated visit, Bleich had come Tuesday morning to visit Waltz before finding out that Wednesday would be the last day of business for the pharmacy.

“Institutions (like Waltz’s Pharmacy) perform so much public service, and we hate to see them close or fade away,” Bleich said. “What he has done, he and his family and his staff, will be forever remembered. Although Phil had a profession, he never looked at it as work. He truly loved serving and assisting everyone who crossed his threshold. To that extent, he was indeed the icon of being a public servant.”

Prior to housing Waltz Pharmacy, 200 North Trenton St. served as the home for Crosby’s Pharmacy and then Beard’s Pharmacy, from whom Waltz purchased the business in 1972. And in the late 80’s, Waltz partnered with Albert Brazzel for nearly a decade and operated as Waltz & Brazzel Pharmacy, Inc., which is still reflected on the sign hanging above the building.

“Waltz Pharmacy has been a fixture in Downtown Ruston for generations,” City of Ruston Main Street Director and Community Coordinator Amy Stegall said. “I still remember dropping by for a bottle of Coke before heading to my job at Grigsby’s Jewelers during college.

“It’s rare to find a place that truly feels like stepping back in time, but Waltz was one of those special spots. We are deeply grateful for the many years they’ve been part of the heart of Downtown Ruston, and we wish them all the best in their well-earned retirement.”

April Brazzel Winstead, Albert’s daughter, said she practically grew up in the pharmacy with her father and the Waltz family. In fact, Winstead had helped with billing from the time she was in high school up until last year.

“My dad actually had a pharmacy across the street from Waltz’s Pharmacy for years,” Winstead said. “When some of the big chains started coming to Ruston, they decided to combine and decrease overhead costs, because the chains were starting to really get those ‘Mom & Pop’ stores.”

Winstead added that she has a lot of memories from decades in the pharmacy and wishes Waltz the best in retirement.

“I raised my babies in that pharmacy — they would go to work with me,” Winstead said. “He’s always treated me like family, and I think of them as family. I know it’s bittersweet for him, but I really hope that he enjoys some time. He and his wife Donna have helped so many people in so many ways that the public will never know — whether it was monetarily or getting up in the middle of the night and going to the pharmacy to fill a prescription. I can’t even name it all.

“I wish them all the best, and I just can’t say enough about what he’s done.”

After the pharmacy closes today, Waltz said that he’ll still be cleaning out the store through the end of the calendar year. Since Waltz will still have the lease on the building for another year, he said he is not sure what will come after he has finished cleaning the store out.

“(Cleaning) is going to take me about four months, at least,” Waltz said. “Once I lock that door, I’ll have some paperwork I’ll need to shred, and there is some I’ll have to keep for 10 years. I’ll be 87 years old when I get through all of this paperwork. I’ll take the shelving down and move everything out, but I’ve got a year to get it empty. But I’m hoping to do it in four or five months.”

Customers with current prescriptions at Waltz’s Pharmacy will now have their scripts sent to Walgreens on 108 West California Ave. in Ruston. Once in Walgreens’ system, customers can call to have their scripts transferred to any pharmacy of their choosing.

For the latest local news, subscribe FOR FREE to the Lincoln Parish Journal and receive an email each weekday morning at 6:55 right to your inbox. Just CLICK HERE to sign up.

by Malcolm Butler

The sun had set in the last year on one of Ruston’s more popular restaurants as the Sundown Tavern has been closed for roughly six months.

However, the sun is coming back up.

Ruston native Heath Hightower and his family have bought the building and the name and will reopen it this summer.

“The name will stay the same,” said Hightower. “In fact we had to take down the old sign because it was falling apart. We have put a new one up, and we have done everything we can to make the new sign look exactly like the old sign. We are putting a huge emphasis on keeping everything the same.

“When we do open and people walk in the door, we expect them to say, ‘Why did this take so long. It doesn’t look any different. It just smells better.'”

Name is the same. Sign will look the same. What about the menu?

“We are absolutely staying the same,” said Hightower. “We are trying to let people know that when we first open it will be the same menu but we will shrink it. We are going to open slow. My message to the community is if your favorite isn’t on the menu that doesn’t mean that we won’t eventually have it. But we have to prove that we can serve a turkey sandwich before we try to serve you loaded chicken nachos.

“I would rather apologize because your favorite dish hasn’t made the menu yet then apologize because it took two and a half hours to feed you.”

So what was the driving factor in Hightower’s decision to buy the building and reopen Sundown Tavern?

“I’m 49 and anybody who is in our age bracket sat in Sundown at some point in their life and said,’I wish I owned this place.’ I had the opportunity to do it,” said Hightower.

“I think it’s going to be a fun experience. I have always had a dream of getting into a restaurant-type business … Then throw in the fact that I get to do it with what I consider an iconic establishment in the city that I’m from, I felt like I fit the suit well. It felt like a natural fit.

“Then when I approached my wife with the crazy idea, she said she has a connection to the place even though she isn’t from Ruston. That was the final vote that I needed.”

Hightower said the timeline to reopen is in July.

“That is the goal, but there is a chance it could bleed into August,” said Hightower. “I’ve run into some challenges with the building … just some repair work. I hope I’m open by the end of July, but I will for sure be open in August at the latest.”

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By Wesley Harris

 Imagine if Jerry Lee Lewis, Mickey Gilley, and Jimmy Swaggart had grown up in Ruston, Louisiana. Would the community be any different than it is today?

It could have happened had the Lewis family made different decisions.

The Lewis family became a vital part of Ruston from the very beginning of the railroad town. They operated Ruston’s first store. The Lewises married into the Kidds, another important family in Ruston’s early days. The stores operated by the Lewis family for over a century anchored the downtown area that saw its fortunes rise and fall with the times.

Before there was a Ruston, before there was a railroad across north Louisiana to spawn a new town, the Lewis family was living in Alabama under the family patriarch Jeptha Lewis. When Jeptha and quite a number of other family members died in the late 1840s, much of the remaining family moved west.

Led by several of Jeptha’s sons, the family crossed the Mississippi River at or near Natchez into Louisiana. According to family lore, one of the sons was always tardy when it was time to break camp and move on. Somewhere in the neighborhood of Ferriday, the son was nowhere to be seen and tired of always waiting on him, the family moved on without him. The story the family tells is that the son left behind was the ancestor of Jerry Lee, Mickey, and Jimmie.

The actual story may not be as colorful as the family legend. Seeking places to open up businesses, the large family moved into north central Louisiana but thought it best to split up and operate businesses in separate towns for the best financial outcomes. Andrew Jackson Lewis took his family to Vernon, then the seat for Jackson Parish. George Washington Lewis took his brood to Monroe. The two branches operated mercantile establishments through the 1850s and 60s through the conclusion of the Civil War.

Vernon suffered greater economic woes during the Civil War and the subsequent period of reconstruction, so Andrew Jackson Lewis moved from Vernon to Trenton, now West Monroe. With the entire family back together, they worked in merchandising until 1883 when the railroad across north Louisiana was finally extended west from Monroe to Shreveport and plans were made for the development of a town called Ruston.

Kathy McBride Cox, great granddaughter of Andrew Jackson Lewis, says no levee existed in Trenton at the time and the Lewis store and home flooded twice by the Ouachita River. “My great grandfather had had enough and heard about the new train track going to Ruston. He though there would be a good opportunity there.”

Andrew Jackson and George Washington and other family members moved to the new town and  started the first store with a barrel of whiskey and a box of cigars and married into the Kidd family. At one point, a store named Lewis & Kidd was the go-to place for just about anything in downtown Ruston.

By the time of the move, George Washington and his wife’s grown children and grandchildren had migrated out of Monroe to Richland Parish.

Their son Leroy Milton Lewis and children lived a hardscrabble life farming in Richland and the adult kids decided to try their luck in Ferriday in Concordia Parish. Elmo had a son named Jerry Lee, daughter Ada had son Mickey with her husband Arthur Gilley and Irene married Willie Swaggart and bore a son named Willie Leon or just “Son.” Son and his wife had James Swaggart, nicknamed Jimmy.

The three cousins got their “musical gene” from their grandfather, according to Cox. “[He] could pick up any instrument whether stringed, a horn, harmonica—and after playing with it a bit—could play it. Jerry Lee got that gene because what else could explain the way he played a piano! I believe Mickey and Jimmy got some of that gene, too.”

The Ruston Lewises actively embraced public life, engaging in cultural pursuits, politics, public service, and growing their mercantile enterprise. If anyone found success in Ruston, it was the Lewises.

“Ruston was good to the Lewises and they in turn were good to Ruston,” Cox says.

While Lewises and Ruston prospered—the huge family home still stands on the dead end of East Alabama Avenue—the Lewis descendants in Ferriday found life hard. In his book “Unconquered” on the three cousins, J. D. Davis writes, “Ferriday was known for hardened men and disappointed women, and as a borough for the downtrodden poor consigned to battle the relentless forces conspiring to keep them that way. Ferriday was where God-fearing people prayed for a better life without expecting to find one; where there was punishing labor or no work at all; where plowed fields veered between parched and flooded, and brutal summer heat was interspersed with sudden, volent squalls. It was where men found refuge in liquor and fast women, if only momentarily.”

So, Jerry Lee Lewis, Mickey Gilley, and Jimmy Swaggart grew up together in Concordia Parish, poor country cousins to the prosperous Ruston Lewises. But they learned to play the piano and sing and kick up their heels at a moment’s notice. And made their own success from their own talents.

Jerry Lee’s soaring rock ‘n’ roll career faltered after he married a 13 year-old cousin. But he rebounded and became a star. Mickey Gilley chose country music and recorded 17 number one hits, reaching the pinnacle of his career when the movie “Urban Cowboy” was patterned after his huge Pasadena, Texas bar. Jimmy Swaggart became the best known televangelist who preached and prayed and played the piano every Sunday before millions until an admission of sinful behavior brought down his ministry.

One can only wonder what mid-century Ruston would have been like had those three men moved here with the rest of the family. Would they have changed Ruston? Or would Ruston have changed them?

 

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By T. Scott Boatright

NATCHITOCHES — The numbers said it all.

College Baseball Hall of Fame Coach and Grambling State Legend Wilbert Ellis was inducted into the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Saturday night.

Ellis became only the second honoree of the LSHOF’s Sports Ambassador Award, joining national broadcaster and Shreveport native Tim Brando, who was inducted in 2020.

And judging from the small army of supporters that showed up at the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Museum for the induction ceremony, ambassador might be an understatement for Ellis.

On Saturday, Ellis became both Louisiana sports royalty and minister while accepting his honor during an on-stage interview with broadcaster Lyn Rollins.

The night began a Walk of Legends featuring previous LSHOF inductees, including another Ruston native, Bert Jones, before being followed with the new inductees walking across the stage, with Ellis receiving the first standing ovation of the night before the induction interviews ever began.

“There have been other inductees over the years that have had big crowds of followers like Coach Ellis did, and who got long ovations,” said Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame chair Doug Ireland. “But the thing that struck me was Coach Ellis received the first ever standing ovation during the Walk of Legends to start the show.”

After that, each new inductee in attendance took to the stage for live interviews with one of two well-known broadcasters, Lyn Rollins, or Victor Howell.

When it finally because his turn in the induction lineup, following a short video featuring Ellis’ history with comments by lifelong friend James Davison, former GSU and Major League Baseball standout Gary Eave, current Grambling State baseball coach Davin Pierre and his pastor, Maurice White of Zion Traveler Baptist in Ruston, Ellis was called to the stage.

What followed was a near minute-long standing ovation.

Rollins began his interview talking with Ellis about the impact of youth baseball camps that are part of the reason he was honored with the LSHOF Ambassador Award.

“I always wanted to give back,” Ellis said as he began the interview. “I always wanted to make a difference. I always wanted to teach fundamental baseball skills, but I also wanted those teachings to go into life, and to motivate young people to build the right roots and be able to make a difference in their lives.

“That was my prayer. God gave me that prayer. I’ve been all over the country doing it. I had some of the greatest people in the world supporting me, starting with my mother and father, Mattie, and Houston Ellis. There are so many people in my community (that helped him). Then when I got to Grambling State University, I met some of the finest people in the world.

Ellis then rattled off a Who’s Who list of Grambling State royalty — R.W.E. Jones, Eddie G. Robinson, and Fred Hobdy.

“I could go on and on,” Ellis continued. “And I met so many people in my community — people that cared about young people and wanted to give people chances and talk about rights and wrongs. That motivated me. … They made me want to be the best and I worked hard at that. …. I could call out a lot of names tonight, but I don’t want to get into any trouble, either, by forgetting someone.”

Ellis then proved how much support he has had over the years, saying that the small army of supporters appearing to be at 150 if not 200 had made him shed tears with their show of love.

He then asked that small army to stand, receiving another standing ovation in the process.

“That right there could be my speech tonight,” Ellis said. “I know that you didn’t have to come, but you showed that somewhere down the line we’ve touched lives together. I love all of you and wish I could call out all your names. But let’s move on.”

As his speech again turned to his desire of teaching life skills to youth, Ellis told the crowd he did not want to take it too far, but feels it is an important subject and that the key is ending the obvious divide our nation is currently undergoing.

“We all need to be involved (in helping youth in America),” Ellis said. “We’re in serious trouble. And it’s not serious about one person, it’s serious about the whole United States of America. We’re going to have to come together. I know I didn’t come to preach, but we’re going to have to come together and do some things to make a difference in the lives of our young people.

“You know, they want to be helped, and it’s our duty and responsibility to help them.”

And as Ellis’ time on stage ended, Rollins asked one favor — that Ellis keep preaching.

“Well thank you for that, but I think that everybody here tonight has had some responsibility with young people, even in your own home with your own children. I know all of you have done that in the community,” Ellis said.

“Don’t turn your head (away from youth) — they want to be helped. They want to be nourished. They need some direction. And don’t be afraid to sit down and talk with them about direction. Tell them about right and wrong, going to church and doing great things in life so that when you see them again, they’re doing great things. They can be lawyers. They can be doctors. But we must work with them in such a way to help make our communities and nation a better place.”

 A full video of Saturday’s LSHOF ceremony can be found online at Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame – 2024 Celebration (youtube.com).

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By Malcolm Butler

Man do I miss the ole Blue Light Cafe.

Anyone who has lived in Ruston for more than 20 years probably knows what I’m talking about.

Nostalgia at its best. A cultural experience to say the least.

Located on the south side of Ruston, the Blue Light Cafe was once the hot spot for soul food in our parish. A mecca of mouth-watering, home-cooked, Southern delicacies.

Although it has been closed now for some 15-odd years (best to my memory), the home that housed the Blue Light Cafe still remains. Sometimes I will drive by just for old time’s sake.

That old blue wooden house with the splintered paint coming off the outside walls. Those brick steps leading up onto the front porch. And the old screen door banging closed on its hinges.

Man, I miss that place.

The food was worth way more than you paid for it. And the menu was a Who’s Who – or in this case a What’s What – of the best the south has to offer in soul food cooked to perfection.

Fried pork chops. That was my go to. The pork chop was so big that it arrived at your table on its own plate. Your side items had to come out on plate No. 2.

Baked chicken? Flavored to perfection. Falling off the bone. Baked in a way that I sure have never been able to master or even come close.

And the sides. Oh, the sides.

Candied yams. Turnip greens. Mashed potatoes and gravy. Rice and gravy. And I’m sure there were more.

And how about that hot water cornbread.

You want your cornbread? You dang right I do.

And last, but certainly not least, banana pudding on Fridays!

And to wash it down how about some sweet tea or maybe a coca cola brought to you in a can with a glass of ice?

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As good as the food was — and trust me for those of you who never experienced it, it was good — the experience and the atmosphere was even better.

You would park across the street in the grass “parking lot” or along the side of the road.

You walked up those brick steps onto the front porch and through the screen door which would bang behind you on those hinges. And as you entered you were greeted by some of the friendliest people that Ruston had to offer. And we all know Ruston does friendly about as well as any place in the world.

You sat on the old bar stools at the formica countertops, grabbed one of the white pads of paper and a pencil and filled out your order by hand. Don’t forget to write your table number on your order. Then you headed to your table.

Remember those old tables, each one numbered with black stickers? And those old bench-like seats covered with the plastic-like upholstery … that were sometimes cracked, sometimes duct taped. As my friend Jim Oakes articulated, those would be “antique” pieces if you could find them these days.

Back before the Blue Light Cafe closed, I would always recommend it as a must do when TV crews and TV talent would ask for suggestions when they rode into Ruston to televise a Louisiana Tech sporting event.

I remember telling Lee Corso and Co. that they wouldn’t be disappointed in the food or the experience. And the next day prior to kickoff, guess what they couldn’t quit talking about? You guessed it, the food and the friendliness at the Blue Light Cafe.

Ruston was fortunate enough to have a couple of those old soul food establishments back then. Remember Sara’s Kitchen over by Ruston High School? And there was the Russell B’s about a block from the Blue Light Cafe.

They were melting pot-type places where the young and the old and folks from all demographics would meet and enjoy some of the best soul food the South had to offer.

Anyone for reopening the Blue Light Cafe? 

My taste buds vote yes!

By Kyle Roberts

Following a season that saw a third-straight appearance in the LHSAA Non-Select, Division I State Championship Game, Ruston High had nine Bearcats named to the Louisiana Football Coaches’ Association All-State Team.

The honorees were voted in by district representatives.

Seniors Zheric Hill (linebacker), Sam Nations (offensive line) and Aidan Anding (cornerback and returner) were all named to the first team, while seniors Rakeem Potts (defensive line), Jordan Hayes (running back) and Fabian Stringfellow (flex) along with sophomore Ahmad Hudson (wide receiver/tight end) were named to the second team.

Seniors Jack Elliott (kicker) and Joran Parker (wide receiver) were both named honorable mention.

“It’s always great to see that coaches around the state acknowledge our football team and player success by voting for our players to be on the LFCA’s All State team,” Ruston High head coach Jerrod Baugh said. “We are very proud for our players that they have recognized, and they are very deserving.”

The complete list is included in an attachment below.

For the latest local news, subscribe FOR FREE to the Lincoln Parish Journal and receive an email each weekday morning at 6:55 right to your inbox. Just CLICK HERE to sign up.

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I was recently out early wrapping up a workout as the sun was coming up. My thoughts were on a topic to write about for this week’s article.  I typically have someone or some group in mind when I write an article.   I reflected on all the people that have commented on reading my articles over the past year as well as others that may have access to the article.  I know that many are going through difficult times while others are in a season of success.

With all of you in mind, I have two Christmas wishes for you.

First, I sincerely hope and pray for those of you going through hard times to know and experience the peace and comfort of Jesus as you navigate difficult circumstances.  Life can be hard, uncertain, and disappointing at times.  I can speak from experience that this Jesus that we celebrate on December 25^th can be:

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Provider: At an early age, I prayed for yards to mow, leaves to rake, and summer jobs to help meet financial needs.  As an adult, I have been blessed with work opportunities that continue to meet our needs and allow us to share with others.

Guide: Growing up in a single parent’s home where my mom was committed to doing all she could to meet basic needs, I was pretty much on my own seeking wisdom on things that were important to me.  I developed a solid dependence on God through prayer for guidance and direction.  That dependence has never diminished over the years.

Encourager: While it would have been easy to be discouraged growing up, God provided me a drive to press on regardless of the challenge.  I found encouragement in reading what He had done and was doing through others.  He provided hope when others would have seen hopeless.  That source of encouragement continues today.

Comforter:  I routinely turned to God in prayer when there was no one to talk to on various matters.  When Pam, my wife, was diagnosed with cancer not long after we were married, it was natural for me to continue turning to God for comfort, wisdom, and hope in uncertain times.  I’ve never had to go searching as God was always there.

Secondly, for those of you currently experiencing good times and finding life to be full of joy and success, I sincerely pray that you would not become so comfortable that you miss the opportunity to experience the same walk with Jesus.  I can share from experience that this Jesus that we celebrate on December 25^th can provide:

Sensitivity/Awareness: Whether it was success on an athletic team or in a business organization, there were always opportunities with teammates and coworkers.  People’s lives are messy!  God has continually opened my eyes to these needs and shown me the importance of creating a culture based on valuing people beyond reaching tangible goals.

Wisdom: Success can be short-lived and turn quickly if not handled appropriately.  I have prayed for wisdom continually over the years whether times were favorable or challenging.  God has provided direction that has been so valuable!

Perspective: Recognizing the relative importance of issues in the moment is not a natural ability for many of us.  God has provided insight into helping me in this area so many times.  While many of us need perspective in challenging times, I have needed it in successful times as well.  The recognition of the key drivers for success and/or significance is essential to getting back on track when circumstances change.

This Jesus that we celebrate on December 25^th is more than just a baby born in a manger.  He is both the hope for eternity and answer for what is needed today!  My wish is that you will experience both this Christmas season!

For the latest local news, subscribe FOR FREE to the Lincoln Parish Journal and receive an email each weekday morning at 6:55 right to your inbox. Just CLICK HERE to sign up.

Suspicious vehicle call results in arrest

A Ruston man was arrested last week after he was found unconscious behind the wheel of a vehicle behind someone’s house in a Lincoln Parish subdivision.

Jarvis D. Silmon, Jr, 37., was arrested on several outstanding warrants when investigating deputies learned he was wanted.

At about 2 a.m. Dec. 18, Lincoln Parish deputies were sent to a Creekside Drive residence in the Creek’s Edge subdivision near Ruston. They found Silmon asleep or passed out in the driver’s seat and his juvenile daughter asleep in the passenger seat.

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Silmon appeared to be intoxicated, according to a deputy’s report. When the deputy spoke to Silmon, he was unable to stand on his own, was sweating heavily, and was unable to speak coherently. He told a deputy he had smoked cocaine and drank alcohol prior to driving. He requested to go to the Northern Louisiana Medical Center.

During the investigation, it was learned that Silmon was wanted on five warrants for failure to appear in Ruston City Count on various traffic charges.

After Silmon was discharged from the hospital, he was arrested and transported to the Lincoln Parish Detention Center and booked. His bail was set at $10,000. The daughter was picked up by her grandmother.

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.

For the latest local news, subscribe FOR FREE to the Lincoln Parish Journal and receive an email each weekday morning at 6:55 right to your inbox. Just CLICK HERE to sign up.

Woman fights arresting officers

A Ruston woman fought officers who attempted to arrest her after they were called to the scene of a disturbance.

Yolanda Y. Torbor, 40, was arrested on several charges after police found her in the front yard of a Jones Street residence yelling at another woman several houses away. According to an officer’s report, Jones was acting erratically and appeared to be under the influence of narcotics.

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When Torbor began yelling profanity, officers attempted to arrest her, but she physically resisted. Torbor allegedly pulled away from an officer, breaking free of the officer’s grasp, and striking the officer in the head. She had to be taken to the ground to be handcuffed.

After Torbor was medically evaluated at the Northern Louisiana Medical Center, she was taken to the Lincoln Parish Detention Center and booked for disturbing the peace, battery of a police officer, and resisting an officer. Her bail amount was set at $2,500.

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.

For the latest local news, subscribe FOR FREE to the Lincoln Parish Journal and receive an email each weekday morning at 6:55 right to your inbox. Just CLICK HERE to sign up.

Courtesy of LA Tech Athletic Communications

After stellar performances in two victories for Louisiana Tech, Sean Newman Jr. was voted Conference USA Player of the Week in an announcement made by the league office Monday.

Newman Jr. averaged 16.0 points, 14.5 assists, 2.5 rebounds, and 1.5 steals per game as the point guard led LA Tech to a pair of home wins over Grand Canyon and Rust College this past week.

The Los Angeles, California native poured in a career-high 25 points to go along with nine assists as the Bulldogs downed WAC preseason favorite GCU, 74-66. With the ‘Dogs up one and three minutes to go, Newman Jr. scored seven of the team’s last nine points (and assisted on the other 2-pointer) as LA Tech closed the game on a 9-2 run to defeat the Lopes in the CUSA/WAC Challenge.

One of the top assist men in the country turned around five days later and set a LA Tech and CUSA single-game assists record with 20 dimes in the 108-60 victory over the Bearcats. Newman Jr. currently ranks first in the country in total assists this season with 128 for an average of 9.8 dimes per game.

This is the first CUSA weekly honor for the redshirt junior. He is the third Bulldog this season to earn a weekly honor, joining Daniel Batcho and AJ Bates.

Newman Jr. and the Bulldogs return to action Thursday, Jan. 2 when they travel to take on UTEP in the CUSA opener. Tipoff is set for 8 p.m. CT and will be broadcast on ESPN+.

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Courtesy of LA Tech Athletic Communications

Paris Bradley earned Conference USA Freshman of the Week after her performance against Central Baptist, which was announced by the league on Monday.

Bradley had a career day helping the Lady Techsters score 112 points, tied for the 18th most in program history. The 5-9 guard scored a career-high 17 points and had five assists, leading to 12 more points for LA Tech. She would also add three steals for a new career best.

Bradley shot 63.6 percent from the field and 50 percent from long range. The Carrollton, Texas, native scored double figures in four consecutive games.

Louisiana Tech returns to the court on December 30 against LSU Alexandria to close out the non-conference portion of the schedule. Tipoff is set for 6:30 p.m. CT in the Thomas Assembly Center, and the game will be streamed on ESPN+.

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Services for Willie “Billy” James will be held on Saturday, December 28, 2024 at 2:00pm, at Rose Neath Funeral Home in Arcadia, LA. Visitation will be held at 12:00pm until time of service. Interment will follow service at Hurricane Cemetery.

Billy was born on April 12, 1936, to Willie and Mary Jordan James. He was born and grew up in the Mt. Mariah Community in Claiborne Parish. Billy was a 1956 graduate of Athens High School. He was dedicated to his career with Louisiana Power & Light Co (now Entergy), where he started in 1958 and retired in 1995. Billy enjoyed fishing, working with his cattle, and was an avid hunter. He was a member of First Methodist Church in Arcadia, LA.

Billy was married to Jackie, the love of his life, for 68 years. He was father to their two boys and Paw Paw to four grandchildren.

Billy was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Arthur “Preacher” James and Hubie “Dick” James; Three sisters, Florence Yarbrough, Lillie Garner and Norvis Burton.

He is survived by his wife, Jacqueline “Jackie” James,; Two sons, Billy Michael James (Marla), and Maxwell Heath James (Holly); Grandchildren, Colby Falkner James (Tess), Brady Logan James (Malina), Ava Elizabeth James and Leah Caroline James; One sister, Edna James Gantt. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

The family would like to say a special thanks to Magnolia Home Health and Premier Hospice for their loving care.

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Lillian Cottingham 
Thursday 07/24/1924 — Wednesday 12/18/2024 Age: 100 
Visitation: Friday 12/27/2024 3:00pm to 5:00pm at King’s Funeral Home 
Funeral Service: Friday 12/27/2024 5:00pm at King’s Funeral Home 
Private Burial 

David “West” Vaughan 
June 29, 1973 – December 20, 2024 
Visitation: Kilpatrick Funeral Homes – Monroe, Sunday, December 29, 2024, 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm 
Service: Kilpatrick Funeral Homes – Monroe, Sunday, December 29, 2024, 2:00 pm 

Ruby Kelly 
Sunday 08/07/1949 — Saturday 12/21/2024  
Visitation: Friday 12/27/2024 3:00pm to 6:00pm at King’s Funeral Home 
Funeral Service: Saturday 12/28/2024 11:00am, New Rocky Valley Baptist Church, 2155 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave., Grambling 
Interment: Saturday 12/28/2024 Following Service, Grambling Memorial Garden, Highway 80 West, Grambling 

Nathaniel Burks 
Sunday 06/10/1962 — Saturday 12/21/2024 Age: 62 
Visitation: Friday 12/27/2024 3:00pm to 6:00pm at King’s Funeral Home 
Funeral Service: Saturday 12/28/2024 11:00am, Zion Traveler Baptist Church, 1201 Martin Luther King Drive, Ruston 
Interment: Saturday 12/28/2024 Following Service, Grambling Memorial Garden, Highway 80 West, Grambling 

Nancy Gale Monk 
December 30, 1944 – December 22, 2024 
Visitation: Thursday, December 26, 2024, 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM, First Baptist Church of Bernice, 502 Cherry St., Bernice 
Funeral Service: Friday, December 27, 2024, 10:00 AM, First Baptist Church of Bernice, 502 Cherry St., Bernice 
Cemetery Committal: Friday, December 27, 2024, Pisgah Cemetery, Pisgah Ch. Rd., Bernice 

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Special to the LPJ

As the year draws to a close, Ruston Parks and Recreation and Ruston Sports Complex are incredibly thankful to have served so many people from all over the country and right here in the Ruston community. With over 500,000 visitors coming into our complex this year, we thought we would reflect on what a memorable year it has been—and what exciting opportunities await us in 2025!

When we look back at our complex’s year, we are filled with gratitude for the chance to host a multitude of unique events and welcome such an array of visitors, fans, and athletes. Beyond our weekend ball tournaments that draw in crowds from near and far, our state-of-the-art facility has provided a central location for hosting an impressive variety of community gatherings including trade shows, indoor circuses, Veterans Day assembly, Ruston High volleyball and softball, and special events for local schools and universities, just to name a few! The diversity of events truly highlights our complex’s versatility and ability to bring people together, and we’re proud to see the positive impact it has on our community.

Additionally, Ruston Parks and Recreation (RPAR) experienced remarkable growth in 2024 as well by drawing over 6,000 participants across its programs and events. New initiatives like the Youth Summer Softball Camp, Adult Soccer Leagues, Fall Break Youth Pickleball Camp, Senior Adult Fitness Program, and the inaugural Peach Fest Pickleball Tournament appealed to various ages and interests. Alongside these fresh offerings, park enhancements such as splash pads in Mayfield, Duncan, and Cook parks further improved community resources. RPAR has also maintained its popular core programs, including volleyball, basketball, cheerleading, and football, which continue to attract strong participation. 

As 2024 comes to a close, we’re incredibly grateful for a community who made this year unforgettable and goal-oriented. It has truly been one of our greatest years of growth with even more on the horizon. We want to thank you for your support, and are looking forward to an even brighter 2025.

Looking to 2025, our mission is the same, to take an active role in the community of Ruston by welcoming residents and visitors of all ages by providing and promoting health and well being through recreation, educational events, and team sports.

We can’t wait to see you at the complex! 

Socials                                                                                      

Facebook:                                                               Instagram:                                    
Ruston Sports Complex                                  @therustonsportscomplex
Ruston Parks and Recreation                     @rustonrpar

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In order for our staff to spend time with friends and family during the holidays, we will not publish December 25 or January 1. We hope you enjoy your holiday as you are able with your loved ones as well.  

The Lincoln Parish Journal will proudly resume publishing on Thursday, December 26, at 6:55 a.m. 

Make sure to get your news at 6:55 a.m. Monday through Friday by subscribing for FREE by clicking HERE. All LPJ articles are free and always will be free! 

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Courtesy of the Louisiana State Police

In May 2023, Troopers with the Louisiana State Police – Gaming Enforcement Division (LSP-GED) received a complaint regarding contraband smuggling into multiple Louisiana Department of Corrections (DOC) facilities, including Elayn Hunt Correctional Center (EHCC).

Upon receiving the complaint, LSP with the assistance of Department of Public Safety and Corrections launched an extensive investigation, uncovering a large-scale illegal sports gambling operation led by 48-year-old Broderick Scott from Addis, a DOC inmate. Evidence revealed that Scott operated the scheme from within the correctional facility, utilizing contraband smuggled into the facility to facilitate and sustain his activities. Troopers identified over 30,000 transactions linked to the operation.

As a result of the investigation, an arrest warrant was issued for Scott. On December 18, 2024, he was booked into the Iberville Parish Jail on charges of LRS 14:90 – Gambling (felony) and LRS 14:405 – Unlawful establishment of accounts on Internet-based social networking websites by inmates (misdemeanor).

The Louisiana State Police remains committed to collaborating with state and local partners to maintain the integrity and security of Louisiana’s correctional facilities. Illegal activities within these facilities will be thoroughly investigated, and offenders will be held accountable. The public plays a vital role in supporting these efforts, as illegal activity puts everyone at risk.

DOC reminds the public that it is illegal to use third-party vendors or apps such as “Cash App” to send money to inmates. There is no legitimate reason for an incarcerated individual to request that their family and friends place money on an app for purchases made while they are incarcerated. Often times, friends and family members are convinced to send money through these methods while being led to believe that this money is going to be used for the purchase of commissary items. In actuality, the transfers of money are used to support illegal activity, for instance to purchase drugs and/or contraband items or have them smuggled into prison. The only legal way to send money to an offender is through JPay or the approved methods listed on the Louisiana Department of Public Safety & Corrections website.

Suspicious or criminal activity connected to contraband smuggling or other illegal operations can be reported anonymously. Visit lsp.org and use the “Report Suspicious Activity” link, or call the LSP Fusion Center Hotline at 1-800-434-8007 to provide information.

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by Staff Reports

Lincoln Prep saw two representatives on the Louisiana Sports Writers Association Class A all-state team.

Cenario Wilson and D’Tavion Wright both earned honorable mention all-state honors for the Panthers after helping guide Lincoln Prep to the Select School Division IV playoffs.

Lincoln Prep was 7-3 during the regular season and earned the No. 19 seed before falling to No. 14 seed Central Catholic 14-0 in the first round.

Wilson and Wright were both members of the All-Lincoln Parish Journal gridiron team this year.

Covenant Christian Academy’s Jesse Turner was the Class A Coach of the Year. Vermilion Catholic’s Jonathan Dartez was the Outstanding Offensive Player while Kentwood’s La’Mikal Callahan was the Outstanding Defensive Player.

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LSWA Class A All-State Team

OFFENSE

Pos player school ht wt cl

WR Nehemiah Philip Riverside Academy 6-0 192 Sr.

WR Jermaine Brown Kentwood 6-0 180 Jr.

TE Allen McLain Vermilion Catholic 6-0 190 Sr.

OL Ayden Bullock Riverside Academy 6-2 270 Jr.

OL Kabren Thomas Covenant Christian Academy 6-1 260 Jr.

OL Jackson Trahan Vermilion Catholic 6-2 255 Sr.

OL Gregory Green Jeanerette 6-2, 265, So.

OL Dakota Davis Haynesville 5-11 230 Sr.

QB Jonathan Dartez Vermilion Catholic 5-8 170 Sr.

RB Harlem Berry St. Martin’s Episcopal 5-11 188 Sr.

RB Dedric Lastie Riverside Academy 5-4 165 Sr.

RB Chad Elzy Jr. Ascension Catholic 5-10 205 Sr.

PK Cooper Helmke St. Martin’s Episcopal 6-3 180 Sr.

ATH Owen Trosclair Covenant Christian Academy 5-10 160 Jr.

 

DEFENSE

DL Ahmad Cage Riverside Academy 5-9 250 So.

DL Javonte Williams Jeanerette 6-2 240 Jr.

DL La’Mikal Callahan Kentwood 6-0 225 Sr.

DL Germerian Williams Haynesville 5-11 230 Sr.

LB Cole Parrino St. Frederick 5-11 210 Sr.

LB Mace Melancon Ascension Catholic 5-10 200 Sr.

LB Keizavion Woods Haynesville 6-3 215 Sr.

LB Hunter Martin Logansport 5-9 165 Jr

DB Damarion Berry General Trass 5-10 175 Jr.

DB Owen O’Neal St. Frederick 5-9 170 Jr.

DB Luke McLain Vermilion Catholic 6-0 180 Jr.

DB Isaiah Washington Haynesville 6-1 170 Jr.

P Eli Bray Haynesville 6-1 200 Jr.

KR Javon Vital Hamilton Christian 5-10 185 So.

ATH Trevoris Norman Southern Lab 5-7 180 Sr.

 

OUTSTANDING OFFENSIVE PLAYER: Jonathan Dartez, Vermilion Catholic

OUTSTANDING DEFENSIVE PLAYER: La’Mikal Callahan, Kentwood

COACH OF THE YEAR: Jesse Turner, Covenant Christian Academy

 

HONORABLE MENTION

Austin Paine, Ascension Catholic; Alijah Hardy, Basile; Makelin Lemoine, Elton; Rory Lambert, Catholic-Pointe Coupee; Landyn Ramagos, Central Catholic; Tate Fontenot, Central Catholic; Russel Mandenbourg, Centerville; Jaden Carter, Covenant Christian Academy; Brennan Champagne, Covenant Christian Academy; Patrick Williams, Covenant Christian Academy; Tyrin Singleton, Delta Charter; Marcus LeBlanc, Elton; Ahmoniee Williams, General Trass; Josh Hopkins, General Trass; Chris Rideau, Hamilton Christian; Derwin Rankins, Hamilton Christian; Andrea Brooks, Haynesville; Isaiah Washington, Haynesville; Jayden Bokemeyer, Oberlin; Kyle Horde, Westminster-Opelousas; Henry Summerlin, St. Edmund; Rowen Bergeron, Opelousas Catholic; Andre Abshire, Ascension Episcopal; Matthew Thompson, LaSalle; Ayden Gongre, Montgomery; Mason Jordan, Montgomery; Jacorian Shepherd, Montgomery; Atlas Hicks, St. Mary’s; Haiden Nelson, St. Mary’s; Braylon Normand, St. Mary’s; Cenario Wilson, Lincoln Prep; D’Tavion Wright, Lincoln Prep; Eli Carr, St. Frederick; Armyrian Asberry, Southern Lab; Jerry Bottley, Southern Lab; Jukadynn Carter, Logansport; Tonashton Bland, Logansport; Andrew McCormick, Ascension Episcopal; Kenric Johnson, Riverside; Kaleb Brumfield, Riverside; Mekell Toussaint, North Iberville; Jon’Quinn Charles, Jeanerette; Wyatt Dubois, St. Edmund; John Patrick Fruge, St. Edmund; Joradae Grows, West St. John; Chance Bovie, West St. John; Bryce Guillory, Grand Lake; Brooks Capps, Catholic-Point Coupee.

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(An early edition with illustrations can be viewed at https://gutenberg.org/files/17135/17135-h/17135-h.htm)

’Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house

Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse;

The stockings were hung by the chimney with care

In hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there;

 

The children were nestled all snug in their beds,

While visions of sugar-plums danced in their heads;

And mamma in her kerchief, and I in my cap,

Had just settled our brains for a long winter’s nap,

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When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter,

I sprang from the bed to see what was the matter.

Away to the window I flew like a flash,

Tore open the shutters and threw up the sash.

 

The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow

Gave the lustre of mid-day to objects below,

When, what to my wondering eyes should appear,

But a miniature sleigh, and eight tiny reindeer,

 

With a little old driver, so lively and quick,

I knew in a moment it must be St. Nick.

More rapid than eagles his coursers they came,

And he whistled, and shouted, and called them by name:

 

“Now, Dasher! now, Dancer! now, Prancer and Vixen!

On, Comet! on, Cupid! on, Donder and Blitzen!

To the top of the porch! to the top of the wall!

Now dash away! dash away! dash away all!”

 

As dry leaves that before the wild hurricane fly,

When they meet with an obstacle, mount to the sky;

So up to the house-top the coursers they flew,

With the sleigh full of Toys, and St. Nicholas too.

 

And then, in a twinkling, I heard on the roof

The prancing and pawing of each little hoof.

As I drew in my head, and was turning around,

Down the chimney St. Nicholas came with a bound.

 

He was dressed all in fur, from his head to his foot,

And his clothes were all tarnished with ashes and soot;

A bundle of Toys he had flung on his back,

And he looked like a peddler just opening his pack.

 

His eyes–how they twinkled! his dimples how merry!

His cheeks were like roses, his nose like a cherry!

His droll little mouth was drawn up like a bow,

And the beard of his chin was as white as the snow;

 

The stump of a pipe he held tight in his teeth,

And the smoke it encircled his head like a wreath;

He had a broad face and a little round belly,

That shook when he laughed, like a bowlful of jelly.

 

He was chubby and plump, a right jolly old elf,

And I laughed when I saw him, in spite of myself;

A wink of his eye and a twist of his head,

Soon gave me to know I had nothing to dread;

 

He spoke not a word, but went straight to his work,

And filled all the stockings; then turned with a jerk,

And laying his finger aside of his nose,

And giving a nod, up the chimney he rose;

 

He sprang to his sleigh, to his team gave a whistle,

And away they all flew like the down of a thistle.

But I heard him exclaim, ere he drove out of sight,

“Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good-night.”

For the latest local news, subscribe FOR FREE to the Lincoln Parish Journal and receive an email each weekday morning at 6:55 right to your inbox. Just CLICK HERE to sign up.

Man booked for beating mother, brother

An 18-year-old Ruston man was arrested for domestic abuse after police responded to a incident in southwest Ruston.

Thaddeus Jones Jr. was arrested for domestic abuse battery by strangulation and simple battery on December 18.

Jones told police he was making fun of his brother because of his reading ability. Jones said this made his mother angry and he and the mother argued. When the brother attempted to intervene, Jones punched him in the face and then choked him while pushing him to the ground.

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Jones admitted he punched and choked his mother with both hands, according to an officer’s report.

The mother told police she was unsure how many times she was punched by Jones but that she did not lose consciousness but felt dizzy.

The brother said he tried to protect his mother after Jones began choking her but Jones started punching him in the head.

Jones was arrested and booked at the Lincoln Parish Detention Center. His bail amount was set at $21,000.

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.

For the latest local news, subscribe FOR FREE to the Lincoln Parish Journal and receive an email each weekday morning at 6:55 right to your inbox. Just CLICK HERE to sign up.