Loading crossword puzzle. One moment please.
Play Sudoku online!
Month: July 2025
Daily stock ticker
Today’s weather forecast
Local events
Each Monday through 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.
Tuesday, July 22
10 a.m.: Family storytime at Lincoln Parish Library (Events Center)
10:30 a.m.: Summer movie series: “The Secret Life of Pets” (Dixie Theatre)
2 p.m.: Brainstem: A Smart Comedy About Science (Lincoln Parish Library Events Center)
4 p.m.: VHS art bookmark for teens (Lincoln Parish Library Community Room)
6 p.m.: Fitness class (Lincoln Parish Library Events Center)
Wednesday, July 23
Life-sized Candyland (Lincoln Parish Library; must sign up for time slot)
7-8 a.m.: Veterans Coffee Club (PJ’s Coffee)
11:30 a.m.: Lunch on Us (Presbyterian Church, 212 North Bonner Street., Ruston) — everyone welcome
6-9 p.m.: Dog Days of Summer (Downtown Ruston)
Thursday, July 24
Life-sized Candyland (Lincoln Parish Library; must sign up for time slot)
10 a.m.: Children’s Museum: Stuffee (Lincoln Parish Library Children’s Room)
11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Kiwanis Club lunch and program (Trinity Methodist Church fellowship hall)
2 p.m.: Tween Time at Lincoln Parish Library Community Room (Ages 9 and up)
4 p.m.: Life-sized Candyland for teens (Lincoln Parish Library Community Room)
5-6 p.m.: Free hamburger meal at the Choudrant Origin Bank location , 3921 Elm Street, from 5Loaves 2 Fish Ministry
6 p.m.: Southern A’Chord Chorus rehearsal (Presbyterian Church fellowship hall, 212 N. Bonner St.; open to all women singers)
6 p.m.: Yoga at Lincoln Parish Library Events Center
Friday, July 25
Dixie Softball World Series (Ruston Sports Complex)
Life-sized Candyland (Lincoln Parish Library; must sign up for time slot)
2 p.m.: LSU AgCenter: Color My Plate (Lincoln Parish Library Events Center)
Saturday, July 26
Dixie Softball World Series (Ruston Sports Complex)
9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Farmers Market
Noon to 4 p.m.: Board game and RPG meetup (Lincoln Parish Library COmmunity Room)
Sunday, July 27
Dixie Softball World Series (Ruston Sports Complex)
Monday, July 28
Dixie Softball World Series (Ruston Sports Complex)
10 a.m.: Senior Health (Lincoln Parish Library Jack Beard Community Room)
11:30 a.m.: Lunch on Us (Presbyterian Church, 212 North Bonner Street., Ruston) — everyone welcome
6 p.m.: Toastmasters International meeting (Louisiana Center for the Blind, 101 South Trenton Street)
6-9 p.m.: Creative Meetups (Creatives at Work, 301 N. Trenton)
Tuesday, July 29
Dixie Softball World Series (Ruston Sports Complex)
10:30 a.m.: Summer movie series: “Monsters, Inc.” (Dixie Theatre)
4 p.m.: Ultimate art trivia for teens (Lincoln Parish Library Community Room)
6 p.m.: Adult Craft Night (Lincoln Parish Library; must register by calling 318-513-5510)
Wednesday, July 30
Dixie Softball World Series (Ruston Sports Complex)
7-8 a.m.: Veterans Coffee Club (PJ’s Coffee)
11 a.m.: Technology Help Hour (Lincoln Parish Library George Byrnside Conference Room)
11:30 a.m.: Lunch on Us (Presbyterian Church, 212 North Bonner Street., Ruston) — everyone welcome
Thursday, July 31
11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Kiwanis Club lunch and program (Trinity Methodist Church fellowship hall)
4 p.m.: End of summer prize party for teens (Lincoln Parish Library Community Room)
6 p.m.: Southern A’Chord Chorus rehearsal (Presbyterian Church fellowship hall, 212 N. Bonner St.; open to all women singers)
6 p.m.: Yoga at Lincoln Parish Library Community Room
7 p.m.: Community performance by Southern A’Chord (fellowship hall of the Presbyterian Church of Ruston)
Friday, August 1
10 a.m.: Ribbon cutting celebrating Lincoln Parish Health Hub/HELP Agency (316 Mills Ave., Ruston)
Saturday, August 2
9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Farmers Market
3 p.m.: Colorful reflections journaling (Lincoln Parish Library Events Room)
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.
Tech’s Fields named preseason CUSA Defensive POY
Courtesy of LA Tech Athletic Communications
Conference USA released its 2025 Preseason Superlative Awards on Monday afternoon, with Louisiana Tech linebacker Kolbe Fields voted as the league’s Defensive Player of the Year.
Fields enters his third season in Ruston and his second as a starter after sitting out the 2023 season due to transfer rules. He earned All-CUSA Second Team honors in 2024, his first year as a starter.
The New Orleans native started in 11 games last season, recording 71 tackles (38 solo, 33 assists), nine tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks, one interception, two forced fumbles and two pass breakups. He recorded three games with double-digit tackles and led Bulldogs in tackles four times.
He made a season-high 12 stops in the season opener against Nicholls, while posting 10 tackles against New Mexico State and 11 versus UTEP. His 71 total tackles ranked second on the team, and he enters the 2025 season as LA Tech’s top returning tackler.
Lady Techsters all-Quarter Century team includes seven conference POY awards
Courtesy of LA Tech Athletic Communications
Louisiana Tech Women’s Basketball announced its All-Quarter Century Team Monday, spotlighting 10 standout Lady Techsters that left a lasting legacy on the program since the year 2000.
The team boasts 25 all-conference honors and seven Conference Player of the Year awards.
All-Quarter Century Team Selections
Adrienne Johnson (2007-11)
A State Farm and AP All-American honorable mention, Johnson was a three-time All-WAC selection and the 2011 Player of the Year. She ranks fifth all-time with 1,985 points and was the last Lady Techster taken in the WNBA Draft, 28th overall in 2011.
Cheryl Ford (1999-2003)
Ford was a two-time WAC Player of the Year and was recently announced as a member of the LA Tech Hall of Fame class of 2025. She is one of just 11 Lady Techsters to surpass 1,000 career points and rebounds. Drafted third in the 2003 WNBA draft, Ford played seven seasons with the team.
Kierra Anthony (2015-19)
Anthony had a standout senior season, nearly doubling her production from the prior year. A three-time All-CUSA selection, she scored 704 points her final season, ranking ninth all-time in program history.
Whitney Frazier (2011-15)
A consistent scoring threat in Ruston, Frazier earned three All-Conference selections across the WAC and CUSA. She totaled 1,631 points, shooting 44.6 percent for her career.
Keiunna Walker (2018-23)
A do-it-all guard, Walker led the Lady Techsters on both sides of the floor. Ranking sixth all-time with 1,975 points while also amassing nearly 150 charges taken in her career.
Amber Obaze (2000-04)
Obaze, a three-time All-WAC performer, guided the Techsters to four straight conference titles and two Sweet 16 appearances. She finished her career averaging 11.1 points per game.
Tasha Williams (2002-06)
Williams, the 2005 WAC Player of the Year and a two-time all-conference selection, guided the Lady Techsters with 477 career assists, ranking seventh all-time.
Erica Smith-Taylor (2001-05)
Smith-Taylor was a force on both ends, earning two All-Conference and All-Defensive selections. She totaled 1,246 career points and 250 steals-ninth all-time-despite missing most of her senior season. She was drafted 19th overall in the 2005 WNBA Draft.
Shanavia Dowdell (2006-10)
One of the top players since the turn of the century, Dowdell is a two-time WAC Player of the Year. She finished 10th in both rebounds (1,025) and blocked shots (146). Dowdell was selected 18th overall in the 2010 WNBA Draft.
Shan Moore (2003-07) POY 2007, 2x, tournament
Moore, the 2007 WAC Player of the Year and a two-time all-conference honoree, finished her career with 1,183 points and 519 rebounds.
Remembering Shirley Francis Hammons
Shirley Francis Hammons, 83, of Ruston, Louisiana passed peacefully on Friday, July 18, 2025. Francis was born in Minden, Louisiana on February 2, 1942. She spent her youth and school-aged years in Farmerville, Louisiana before moving with her family to Simsboro, Louisiana, where she graduated from Simsboro High School and was a member of the Lady Tiger basketball team.
Francis entered the world of work and was known throughout the Ruston business community during her over four-decade career as an insurance secretary and insurance account specialist. As a wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, she enjoyed working in her yard, maintaining a warm, welcoming home for her family to visit and fellowship, and traveling with friends. She was a former member of the Eta Omicron chapter of Beta Sigma Phi sorority and served a one-year term as its president.
Preceding her in death was her husband of thirty-seven years, Roy Gene “Mutt” Hammons; her parents, Maynard C. and Louella Upshaw; and brothers Thomas Upshaw, Troy Upshaw, and Clinton Upshaw.
She is survived by two sons, Steve Hammons of Mount Vernon, Texas and Barry Hammons (Ellen) of Sibley, Louisiana. Left to cherish the memories of their “Nana” are her grandchildren and great-grandchildren Hayden and Joni Hammons (John and Ben) of Baton Rouge, Louisiana; Ross and Sarah-Lindsey Hammons (Ginny and Hank) of Madison, Mississippi; John Cullen Hammons of Baton Rouge, Louisiana; Mary Conly and Mark Fakier of New Orleans, Louisiana; Maggie Hammons of Sibley, Louisiana; and Lane Hammons of Fort Smith, Arkansas. Francis is also survived by her sisters Pat Eloise Norris and Ruth Kent (Craig) of Ruston as well as a host of nieces and nephews. A special heartfelt love and appreciation is extended to her sister-in-law, Dora Hall, and her nephew, Wayne Upshaw, for their unending love and care for Francis.
The family will observe a Private Graveside Service.
Remembering Harold Glen Staples
Harold Glen Staples, age 75 of Ruston, LA passed away on July 16, 2025 in Shreveport, LA. The family will hold a private graveside service at a later date.
Harold was born on April 23, 1950 to Loy Leon Staples and Kathleen Andrews Staples in Ruston, LA. He enjoyed playing golf, going fishing and hunting, and enjoyed spending time with his family, especially the great-grandchildren. Harold worked 37 years at the Glass Plant, in the hot end. He loved his fellow employees from Lauren’s Glass and kept in touch with many of them through visits and phone calls on a regular basis.
Harold was preceded in death by his parents; and brother, James Staples. He is survived by his granddaughters, Morgan Staples and Tiffany Books; seven great grandchildren; brother, Leon Staples and wife Vicki; sisters, Kathy and husband Gary Wedeking and Donna and husband Jake Ambrose; sister-in-law, Jackie Staples; and ex-wife, Debbie Staples.
Notice of death — July 21, 2025
Ira Thomas Simpson
November 28, 1933 – July 18, 2025
Visitation: Bernice Methodist Church, Tuesday, July 22, 2025, 9:00 am – 10:00 am
Service: Bernice Methodist Church, Tuesday, July 22, 2025, 10:00 am
Cemetery: Bernice City Cemetery, Tuesday, July 22, 2025
Caleb Seney’s servant’s heart impacts special needs campers and their families
by Malcolm Butler
Tears have different meanings.
When Caleb Seney’s eyes well up with tears talking about his journey at MedCamps of Louisiana and the impact the special needs summer camp has on its campers, those are emotions full of joy and compassion.
Caleb has served as the Executive Director at MedCamps of Louisiana for the past 23 summers, but his history with the place that provides a magical experience for special needs children dates back even further.
That is when his love and passion for the camp’s purpose and its campers began.
Flash back to the summer of 1993 when Caleb was a student at Springhill High School and his older brother, Tony, was the head camp counselor in the infant years of MedCamps.
Tony was in search of an additional counselor for the summer after dismissing one and knew who to call.
“(Tony) called me and asked if I wanted to come out and work with him the rest of the summer,” remembers Caleb. “I said, ‘Yeah. What do you do?’ He said, ‘I run a summer camp.’ And I said, ‘Heck, yeah.’”
It was the start of a more than three-decade love affair between Caleb and the camp.
Caleb continued to work at MedCamps throughout his college days at ULM (then NLU) as he spent each summer giving his time and his energy to the campers.
Sometimes people are fortunate enough to find their true calling in life.
For Caleb, that’s MedCamps of Louisiana.
“I worked out here every summer in college,” said Caleb. “I eventually became head counselor. Then I graduated from college. I thought, ‘Well, I need to go get a real job.’”
Following graduation from college, Caleb moved to Shreveport for his first real job, working for his uncle and aunt for a few years. However, eventually his journey led him back to Monroe and back into a career of serving others as he worked with special needs people for a company called Care Solutions.
That is when he contacted MedCamps of Louisiana founder Michael Zambie about reconnecting with the entity.
“I contacted Dr. Zambie,” said Caleb. “I said, ‘Hey, I want to get plugged back in to MedCamps. What can I do?’
“He told me that they needed new board members, younger board members. He said I would be a good fit because I worked out there long enough that I knew what was going on with MedCamps.”
Caleb joined the board of directors in the late summer of 2002.
“I knew (Caleb) from when he was a counselor,” said Dr. Zambie. “And he was a great counselor. And then he was the head counselor, and I got to know him even more. That was when I was really involved with the camp quite a bit. He came back and wanted to be on the board of directors.”
Then soon after, MedCamps was in search of a new executive director. Enter Caleb.
“We had gone through two or three (executive) directors during a two- or three-year period,” said Dr. Zambie. “We just had a tough time finding anyone who we felt was a good fit for the camp. He approached me and told me he wanted to apply for the job.
“He was by far the best candidate we interviewed. Plus, he had such a love for and history with the camp. We felt like Caleb would be a perfect fit.”
So, in 2003, Caleb took over the head role at the camp. And according to everyone involved, drastic changes were needed as the camp was not in great shape – either financially or from a facility standpoint.
After starting out in 1987 as a special needs camp for kids with asthma (Camp Easy Breeze) and being held on the ULM campus, MedCamps of Louisiana needed a new home.
Dr. Zambie said a local paster, Ed Hurley, arranged for him to meet with the Presbytery of the Pines which owns Camp Alabama to discuss a partnership.
“We eventually moved it to Camp Alabama around 1990,” said Dr. Zambie. “The camp had pretty much been abandoned. (The facilities) were pretty dilapidated. It needed a lot of work.”
Despite the lack of top-notch facilities, the camp continued to grow throughout the 1990s, according to Dr. Zambie.
“Every year we would have someone approach us and say, ‘Hey, would you have a camp for autistic kids? Would you have a camp for wheelchair bound kids?’ So, each year we would add a camp at a time,” said Dr. Zambie. “We would add camps to the MedCamps umbrella as we felt they were needed.”
Located in Sibley (about 10 miles east of Ruston), MedCamps of Louisiana’s mission is to improve the health and wellness of people living with chronic illnesses and disabilities through unique recreational and educational camping experiences.
When Caleb assumed responsibilities as the executive director in 2003, he knew across the board changes were needed if the camp was going to grow. He addressed the topic with Dr. Zambie before taking the job.
“I said the only caveat Dr. Zambie is you are going to have to protect me because we need to make some changes,” remembers Caleb. “He said, ‘I fully agree, and I have your back.’
“We limped through that first summer. I started two weeks before camp started. The staff was already in place. I had zero influence on any of that. The one thing I did that won the support of Dr. Zambie was I went to him with some financial ideas.”
Some of those ideas were instrumental in allowing the camp to get back on its feet financially and start moving forward to where it is today.
“Caleb has been the best thing that ever happened to MedCamps of Louisiana,” said Dr. Zambie. “He has taken it from a little small camp with 100 or 150 (campers) to up to over 500.”
Including weekend retreats and family camps, MedCamps of Louisiana serves over 800 kids a year.
These days MedCamps of Louisiana holds summer sessions for a multitude of special needs groups, including family camps (three in fall and three in spring) as well as summer camps for various ages. The summer camps include sessions focused on autism, down syndrome, cerebral palsy, spina bifida, Type I diabetes, sickle cell anemia, muscular dystrophy, and other disabilities and chronic illnesses.
And one of its main goals is for every camper to attend for free, meaning fundraising is critical.
Caleb has introduced a wide variety of fundraising platforms over the past two decades as the camps budget has increased exponentially. MedCamps is totally funded through fundraising, individual contributions and grants.
It is no easy task, but it is one that Caleb has excelled at.
“He has done a marvelous job of spreading the word, not only in northeast Louisiana but throughout the entire state and region,” said Dr. Zambie.
“That’s what a big part of his job is,” said MedCamps board member Thomas Davison. “He has to raise money so these campers can go for free. He is great on the fundraising side, whether it is with individuals or groups. It is so easy for me to give to MedCamps because I know the impact it has on so many families.”
It is truly a labor of love.
“It’s not always easy,” said Caleb. “There have been a lot of tough times. A lot of battles, but the vision has always been the same. I knew we could make it better. And we have.”
He was also instrumental in starting the partnership with the Louisiana Tech School of Design more than a decade ago that led to tremendous upgrades to Camp Alabama’s facilities.
Although Caleb has made his impact on MedCamps in so many different ways, those who are around him say his biggest asset is his love for the kids who attend.
“I don’t think MedCamps would be where it is today without Caleb’s leadership and love,” said Davison. “God put him in that role for a reason. I cannot see him anywhere else but MedCamps. The way he interacts with those kids is special. It is what he was made to do.
“Caleb has a loving heart for these kids. He has a servant’s heart. It is what has made MedCamps so successful.”
Kacie Whipple, who has been associated with MedCamps in various roles since 2010, echoes Davison’s sentiments.
“I don’t think I have ever met anyone who puts others before themselves as much as Caleb does,” said Whipple, who now serves as Camp Director. “He pours his heart and soul into MedCamps.
“It is truly one of his other children. He obviously has (his own daughters) Abby and Audrey, but MedCamps is a third (child) to him. He has a heart to serve, and he makes sure the campers have a once in a lifetime experience that they cannot get anywhere else. He is so dedicated to (MedCamps) and its mission.”
The board members see it. The staff sees it. And so do the parents of the campers.
“As parents, entrusting our son Lawson to anyone is no small thing, but MedCamps and Caleb earned our complete trust from the very first summer he attended camp,” said former Louisiana Tech Director of Athletics Tommy McClelland and his wife, Jessica, whose oldest son attended during their time in Ruston. “Caleb’s vision and compassion create an environment where children with special challenges thrive.
“We witnessed firsthand how Lawson grew in confidence, independence, and joy, surrounded by caring staff who treated him as their own. MedCamps does not just run a summer program: they serve with humility and heart, offering each child the invaluable gift of belonging. We are forever grateful to Caleb and the entire MedCamps family for caring for a parents most precious treasure: their children.”
Anyone who has witnessed Caleb walking across the Camp Alabama grounds interacting with the kids can easily see his love and dedication for what is much more than just a job.
“Caleb has such a passion for our kids and MedCamps,” said Heather Pullen, whose son Britt attended its summer camps. “It is such an amazing experience for the campers year after year. He pours every ounce of his heart and soul into them and the camp.
“I have never seen anyone outside of our family members care about our kids more than Caleb. It takes a special kind of person to do what he does. We are so fortunate to have something so spectacular in our community.”
While those around him talk about what Caleb has meant to MedCamps and its staff and campers, he is quick to deflect any credit. Instead, he claims to be the one who is blessed.
“I thought I would do it for only a few years, but I love it,” said Caleb. “I know beyond a shadow of a doubt what God created me to do. There is no doubt in my mind. God ordained me to do this.”
Emotional for sure.
LA Tech’s Yang Xiao awarded prestigious research grant
Courtesy of LA Tech University Communications
Dr. Yang Xiao, assistant professor of chemical engineering at Louisiana Tech University, has been awarded a prestigious national grant from the American Chemical Society’s Petroleum Research Fund aimed at supporting early-career faculty conducting fundamental research in energy and petroleum science.
This two-year, $110,000 Doctoral New Investigator award aims to make fuel and plastic production cleaner, more efficient, and more sustainable through his project titled Selective Semi-Hydrogenation of Acetylene to Ethylene over Two-Dimensional Nanolayer Catalysts.
Xiao’s research focuses on a key challenge in the petrochemical industry: the purification of ethylene, which serves as a foundational building block for many plastics and similar materials. Even small amounts of impurities can significantly hinder the speed and efficiency of material production. His project looks to solve this problem by utilizing a novel nanocatalyst that significantly enhances the purification. The goal is to reduce energy use, cut down on byproducts, and make the entire process more environmentally sustainable.
“This grant is an exciting opportunity to tackle a long-standing challenge in energy and materials manufacturing,” said Xiao. “Our work could help improve the way fuels and plastics are produced, making them cleaner and more cost-effective.”
The Doctoral New Investigator program is one of the most competitive research funding opportunities for early-career scientists in the U.S. It supports promising faculty within the first three years of starting their independent academic careers. Xiao joins a select group of researchers nationwide who are working on innovative energy solutions at institutions including Texas A&M, Penn State, Purdue, and the University of New Haven.
“Dr. Xiao’s research has the potential to transform processes in both petroleum refining and polymer production, two major industries in Louisiana” said Dr. Collin Wick, dean of the College of Engineering and Science. “This national recognition is well-deserved and reflects the caliber of innovation taking place at Louisiana Tech.”
For more information about the award and other funded projects, visit
cen.acs.org/acs-news/ACS-
Man sentenced to prison for digging artifacts in national forest
A Georgetown, La., man was sentenced last week to over two years in federal prison for removing Native American artifacts from the Kisatchie National Forest.
The U. S. Attorney for the Western District of Louisiana announced that Roy Everett Jordan, Jr., 57, has been sentenced for the unauthorized removal of archaeological resources and illegal possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. U. S. District Judge Dee D. Drell sentenced Jordan to 24 months in prison for the archeological crime, and another six months in prison for the firearm possession, for a total of 30 months in prison. After release from prison, Jordan will be on supervised release for two years.
Jordan was convicted by a federal jury in March and recently sentenced. Evidence at the trial revealed in 2022 U. S. Forest Service agents learned of unauthorized digging at four Native American archaeological sites in the Kisatchie National Forest in the Grant Parish. The digging had occurred at sites where arrowheads and other artifact were known to be present. Through their investigation, agents obtained photo evidence of Jordan in the area where the digging took place. Just a few hours after photo evidence was taken of Jordan conducting unauthorized digging, he made a social media post on a find he had made that day in that location and the piece of pottery he found.
A search warrant was executed at Jordan’s residence and agents found numerous arrowheads and pottery shards. A table covered in a camouflage cloth was found that matched the photo Jordan had posted on social media. In addition, there was an outbuilding/shed on the property that was full of Jordan’s belongings and numerous arrowheads and pottery shards in multiple places. Agents found clothing in the shed matching what Jordan had worn in the photo evidence obtained by law enforcement agents.
Agents also found and seized a loaded ISSC semi-automatic .22 caliber pistol. Jordan has three prior felony convictions prohibiting him from possessing any firearm or ammunition.
The case was investigated by the U. S. Forest Service, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Louisiana State Police, and Grant Parish Sheriff’s Office and prosecuted by the U. S. Attorney’s Office.
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.
Ruston High offering pair of summer camps for football and cheer
This is a paid advertorial.
Ruston High Football Camp (July 29-30). The Bearcats will be offering a football camp for incoming Kindergarten students through nine grade students. Participants will receive a camp T-Shirt and will need to wear shorts, a T-Shirt and cleats.
To register, please click this link.
Camps will run from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. everyday at Hoss Garrett Stadium.
The cost is $60 per participant. Contact Jerrod Baugh for more information at 903.918.2359.
Ruston Cheer Mini-Clinic (August 5 -8). Ruston High will offer a cheerleading mini-clinic Tuesday, August 5 through Friday, August 8, for ages four-years-old through fifth grade.
The Camp will run 9 a.m. – noon on the first three days with a showcase from 9 a.m. – 10 a.m. on Friday.
To register, please click this link.
The cost is $80 per participant. Preregistration ends on August. 3.
Registering through GoFAN costs an additional nominal fee.
Subpar putting partly to blame as Burns slips from contention at British Open
JOURNAL SPORTS
Sam Burns is one of the best putters in professional golf, just not in the last four days.
After a solid start over the opening two rounds, Burns faded from contention in the British Open at Royal Portrush in Ireland. He was in a 17th-place tie after two rounds at 3-under, but carded a pair of 1-over 72s Saturday and Sunday and finished in a 45th-place tie among the 70 players who made the cut.
His close friend and tournament housemate, Dallas native Scottie Scheffler, ran away from the field to post a 17-under winning total and led by as many as six shots Sunday before settling for a dominant four-shot margin. It was Scheffler’s fourth major triumph and second this year to go with The Masters.
Burns’ 1-over final total (70-69-72-72) was hampered by uncharacteristic shortcomings on the greens. His -1.29 strokes gained putting – a statistic that he’s led the PGA Tour in most of the season – ranked 106th in this week’s 156-player field.
The Choudrant resident drove the ball well, ranking 17th with a 315-yard average, and 30th in driving accuracy. His approach game was very reliable, ranking sixth in the field, but 50 percent of his birdie putts came from outside 30 feet.
The 28-year-old has made a career-best six consecutive cuts in major championships and has shown the ability to contend. He was one shot off the lead last year entering the final round of The Open Championship, and he led through the third round and for all but the last three holes of last month’s U.S. Open.
Burns, a Shreveport native and former LSU All-American and college golfer of the year, has been a pro since 2017. He is trying to make a fourth straight appearance on a season-ending USA team, having played in two Presidents Cups (2022, 2024) and the 2023 Ryder Cup.
The top six of 12 USA Ryder Cup slots are determined by points standings, with the final six spots to be selected by captain Keegan Bradley. Burns was a captain’s pick two years ago, when he stood 13th in the final standings. He ranks 15th now.
Burns, who plays out of Squire Creek Country Club, is 22nd in both the Official World Golf Rankings and the FedEx Cup PGA Tour standings.
There are two PGA Tour regular-season events remaining, this week’s 3M Open and the Wyndham Championship. Burns is entered in the 3M Open in Blaine, Minn., with the Wyndham entries not yet posted.
Burns will open the playoffs next month at the FedEx St. Jude Championship and the BMW Championship, events where he finished fifth and second, respectively, in 2024 to qualify for the Tour Championship and virtually lock up his Presidents Cup berth.
ICYMI: Bearcat alums Willis and Szymanski make notable summer moves
By Kyle Roberts
A pair of former Bearcats have made some diamond buzz this past week.
Both Dawson Willis and Justin Szymanski made announcements about their respective baseball futures: Willis signed as an undrafted free agent with the San Diego Padres while Szymankski’s All-American performance this past year has led him to Northwestern State to continue his collegiate career.
“I’m incredibly proud of both of their accomplishments,” Ruston High Head Coach Bryan Beck said. “Obviously Dawson is fulfilling every kid’s dream to get a chance to play in the MLB and he is actually about to live that out. Justin is moving on to play at the D1 level and that was his dream, as well. Make no mistake about it, these are not coincidences that both of these guys are moving on to the highest level of Baseball. Both of them have incredible leadership qualities and unparalleled work ethics, and those characteristics are paying huge dividends now.
“I cannot take any credit for their accomplishments but am certainly very blessed to have had the experience to share a dugout with these two guys, and Ruston Baseball is better because these two players played in this program.”
Willis most recently played for the Oklahoma Sooners after two stellar seasons at LSU-Eunice, where he earned Defensive Player of the Year honors in 2024 after helping lead LSU-E to a 2024 National Junior College Championship. As a Sooner, he started in 60 games at third base and hit six home runs.
Szymanski announced this week that he will be returning to Louisiana and headed to Northwestern State to play for the Demons after an incredible year at South Arkansas in El Dorado.
”I’m very, very excited to head to Northwestern State,” Szymanski said. “My Star teammate Ty Simoneli is coming with me, and I think we’ll have a lot to offer NSU. The staff is phenomenal. We had very productive conversations (when I went to visit), and they were fantastic. For the past two years, South Arkansas’ staff put me on the path to succeed at Northwestern State and to get past whatever obstacles come my way.”
According to NJCAAStats, Szymanski batted a whopping .415 on the year, which earned him NJCAA All-American Honorable Mention honors as a power-hitting infielder for South Arkansas. Szymanski was instrumental in the Stars winning the 2024 Region 2 NJCAA Championship. He will enter Northwestern State as a junior.
Wanted man located, drugs found in his vehicle
Ruston Police officers spotted a wanted man while they were conducting business at the local Office of Motor Vehicles.
Nikaulyn Goree, 20, of Ruston, was arrested July 15 after an RPD officer recognized him sitting in the waiting area of the Office of Motor Vehicles. Earlier in the day, RPD officers were informed Goree was wanted on two warrants from Ruston City Court.
Once Goree was spotted, the officers left the building and waited outside with back up until Goree left the office. He was arrested and booked at the Lincoln Parish Detention Center.
A search warrant was obtained for Goree’s vehicle in the Office of Motor Vehicles’ parking lot. During a search, approximately 430 grams of marijuana was found in a book bag on the passenger seat. Four hydrocodone pills were found among the marijuana.
Goree was booked for possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, possession of hydrocodone with intent to distribute, possession of a controlled substance in a drug free zone, and the Ruston City Court warrants charging him with resisting an officer and possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute.
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.
Daily puzzles
Daily stock ticker
Today’s weather forecast
Local events
Each Monday through 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.
Monday, July 21
11:30 a.m.: Lunch on Us (Presbyterian Church, 212 North Bonner Street., Ruston) — everyone welcome
4 p.m.: Story hour at Lincoln Parish Library (Events Center)
5:30 p.m.: Ruston Planning and Zoning meeting (Ruston City Hall)
6 p.m.: Toastmasters International meeting (Louisiana Center for the Blind, 101 South Trenton Street)
6-9 p.m.: Creative Meetups (Creatives at Work, 301 N. Trenton)
Tuesday, July 22
10 a.m.: Family storytime at Lincoln Parish Library (Events Center)
10:30 a.m.: Summer movie series: “The Secret Life of Pets” (Dixie Theatre)
2 p.m.: Brainstem: A Smart Comedy About Science (Lincoln Parish Library Events Center)
4 p.m.: VHS art bookmark for teens (Lincoln Parish Library Community Room)
6 p.m.: Fitness class (Lincoln Parish Library Events Center)
Wednesday, July 23
Life-sized Candyland (Lincoln Parish Library; must sign up for time slot)
7-8 a.m.: Veterans Coffee Club (PJ’s Coffee)
11:30 a.m.: Lunch on Us (Presbyterian Church, 212 North Bonner Street., Ruston) — everyone welcome
6-9 p.m.: Dog Days of Summer (Downtown Ruston)
Thursday, July 24
Life-sized Candyland (Lincoln Parish Library; must sign up for time slot)
10 a.m.: Children’s Museum: Stuffee (Lincoln Parish Library Children’s Room)
11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Kiwanis Club lunch and program (Trinity Methodist Church fellowship hall)
2 p.m.: Tween Time at Lincoln Parish Library Community Room (Ages 9 and up)
4 p.m.: Life-sized Candyland for teens (Lincoln Parish Library Community Room)
5-6 p.m.: Free hamburger meal at the Choudrant Origin Bank location , 3921 Elm Street, from 5Loaves 2 Fish Ministry
6 p.m.: Southern A’Chord Chorus rehearsal (Presbyterian Church fellowship hall, 212 N. Bonner St.; open to all women singers)
6 p.m.: Yoga at Lincoln Parish Library Events Center
Friday, July 25
Dixie Softball World Series (Ruston Sports Complex)
Life-sized Candyland (Lincoln Parish Library; must sign up for time slot)
2 p.m.: LSU AgCenter: Color My Plate (Lincoln Parish Library Events Center)
Saturday, July 26
Dixie Softball World Series (Ruston Sports Complex)
9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Farmers Market
Noon to 4 p.m.: Board game and RPG meetup (Lincoln Parish Library COmmunity Room)
Sunday, July 27
Dixie Softball World Series (Ruston Sports Complex)
Monday, July 28
Dixie Softball World Series (Ruston Sports Complex)
10 a.m.: Senior Health (Lincoln Parish Library Jack Beard Community Room)
11:30 a.m.: Lunch on Us (Presbyterian Church, 212 North Bonner Street., Ruston) — everyone welcome
6 p.m.: Toastmasters International meeting (Louisiana Center for the Blind, 101 South Trenton Street)
6-9 p.m.: Creative Meetups (Creatives at Work, 301 N. Trenton)
Tuesday, July 29
Dixie Softball World Series (Ruston Sports Complex)
10:30 a.m.: Summer movie series: “Monsters, Inc.” (Dixie Theatre)
4 p.m.: Ultimate art trivia for teens (Lincoln Parish Library Community Room)
6 p.m.: Adult Craft Night (Lincoln Parish Library; must register by calling 318-513-5510)
Wednesday, July 30
Dixie Softball World Series (Ruston Sports Complex)
7-8 a.m.: Veterans Coffee Club (PJ’s Coffee)
11 a.m.: Technology Help Hour (Lincoln Parish Library George Byrnside Conference Room)
11:30 a.m.: Lunch on Us (Presbyterian Church, 212 North Bonner Street., Ruston) — everyone welcome
Thursday, July 31
11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Kiwanis Club lunch and program (Trinity Methodist Church fellowship hall)
4 p.m.: End of summer prize party for teens (Lincoln Parish Library Community Room)
6 p.m.: Southern A’Chord Chorus rehearsal (Presbyterian Church fellowship hall, 212 N. Bonner St.; open to all women singers)
6 p.m.: Yoga at Lincoln Parish Library Community Room
7 p.m.: Community performance by Southern A’Chord (fellowship hall of the Presbyterian Church of Ruston)
Friday, August 1
10 a.m.: Ribbon cutting celebrating Lincoln Parish Health Hub/HELP Agency (316 Mills Ave., Ruston)
Saturday, August 2
9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Farmers Market
3 p.m.: Colorful reflections journaling (Lincoln Parish Library Events Room)
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.
Remembering Paul Henry Morris
Paul Henry Morris, age 64 of Ruston, LA passed away on Wednesday, July 16, 2025 in Ruston. A private family service will be held at a later date on the Choctaw Indian Reservation in Mississippi.
Paul was born to Henry Paul Morris and Corrine Marthalene Greaud on August 7, 1960 in Plaquemine, LA. Being a commercial and residential painter by trade, Paul was a very proud member of the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians. He enjoyed reading and read his Bible daily. Paul loved going fishing and hunting, playing pool, and searching the internet on his computer. Paul cherished spending time with his family and had numerous nieces and nephews. He was a good brother and will be dearly missed.
Paul was preceded in death by his parents; and sisters, Freda Gail Morris and Carolyn Lonidier.
Paul is survived by his sisters, Barbara Ann and husband Rick Young of Dubach, LA, Mary Morris of Ruston, LA, Theresa and husband Dee Tatum of Ruston, LA; and her brother, Kenny Morris of Ruston, LA.
Remembering Ira Thomas Simpson
Ira Thomas Simpson, 91, passed away peacefully on July 18, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and loyalty to family, friends, and his beloved LSU Tigers.
Born with a natural athleticism and competitive spirit, Ira’s early years were marked by his passion for sports. He excelled in both basketball and baseball at the high school level, earning a baseball scholarship to Centenary College, where he played for four years and was honored as the team’s Most Valuable Player. His love for the game extended beyond college as he played Big 8 baseball for three additional years. Later in life, he stayed close to the game by refereeing high school and college basketball — a role he enjoyed for many years.
Ira dedicated 35 years of his professional life to the oil and gas industry, bringing the same work ethic and determination to his career that he did to the ballfield.
Outside of work, Ira found joy in simple pleasures: a round of golf, a well-grilled steak, and a weekend filled with sports on television. But nothing brought him more happiness than time spent with his family. His devotion to his wife of nearly 71 years, Carol Anne Simpson, was unwavering. Together, they built a life filled with love, faith, and cherished traditions.
A man of quiet but steadfast faith, Ira was a long-time member of Bernice Methodist Church, where he formed lasting friendships and served his community with kindness and humility.
Ira was preceded in death by his brother, Jerry Simpson, and his daughter, Juli Barmore.
He is survived by his loving wife, Carol Anne Simpson; his son, Joe Simpson (wife Lisa); his son-in-law, Bo Barmore; his granddaughter, Audri McCready (husband Tim); and his treasured great-grandchildren: Morgan Farrar (husband Beau), Molli McCready, Madison McCready, and Mallory McCready. He also leaves behind his sister, Earline Evans (husband Mike), and numerous nieces and nephews who adored their Uncle Ira.
Pallbearers will be Mickey Murphy, John Pratt, Beau Farrar, Johnny Buckley, Mike Evans, and Tim McCready. Honorary pallbearers will be Bill Hageman and Simon Pearson.
Ira’s life was marked by quiet strength, steadfast love for his family, and an enduring passion for sports. He will be remembered for his quick wit, generous heart, and the countless ways he made life better for those who knew him.
Memorials may be made to the Bernice Methodist Church, 202 8th Street, Bernice, LA 71222.
The family takes comfort in knowing that he has been reunited with his loved ones who have gone before him and that his legacy lives on in the hearts of all who loved him.
Geaux Tigers, Papaw
Funeral services will be 10:00 A.M. Tuesday, July 22, 2025, at Bernice Methodist Church, 202 8th Street, Bernice, LA with Brother Reagan Colvin officiating the service. Interment will follow in the Bernice City Cemetery under the direction of Kilpatrick Funeral Homes in Farmerville, LA.
A visitation will begin at 9:00 A.M. until 10:00 A.M. prior to the service on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, at Bernice Methodist Church in Bernice, LA.