by Hanna Singh

You may have wondered why all across Ruston, yellow ribbons have appeared on storefronts throughout the month of September.

In honor of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, many local businesses in Lincoln Parish have shown their support for the cause by hanging up the official yellow ribbon in solidarity with families and children facing childhood cancer.

What may look like a simple decoration has become a symbol of support for families in Ruston whose children have faced these challenges, and for the community that has rallied together for them.

According to the American Childhood Cancer Organization website, each year in the U.S. there are an estimated 15,780 children between the ages of birth and 19 years of age who are diagnosed with cancer. Approximately 1 in 285 children in the U.S. will be diagnosed with cancer before their 20th birthday.

Sheila Branch, owner of Chessy’s Boutique in downtown Ruston, shared how the ribbons hold a personal meaning for her.

“My cousin’s little boy had brain cancer. He has gone to St. Jude all his life, he is a survivor,” Branch said. “It is a very important cause to my family. We also know one of the little boys in Ruston who has gone through cancer treatments recently. We participated with the ribbons to show support for this cause that means something personal to us.”

Two of the children at the heart of this cause are Breck Owens, a student at Cedar Creek School, and Reed Pipes, a student at A.E. Phillips. Both boys have shown incredible courage in their battles with leukemia. Both have also witnessed the strength of the community pouring into their families.

Breck’s mother, Valerie Owens, shared how deeply the support from the town has impacted their family.

“Our son, Breck, was diagnosed with Leukemia in January for the second time, and he’s currently in the middle of treatment,” Owens said. “As you can imagine, this journey has been tough, but one of the things that has carried us is the incredible support we’ve felt from Cedar Creek and from the Ruston community as a whole.”

Cedar Creek held a Friday night event in Breck’s honor, filling the stadium with love and encouragement. Many members of the school community showed up in support of their classmate and friend.

The Pipes family has also been impacted by the overflow of support from the community. Reed’s mother, Lauren Pipes, spoke about the moment they first learned of his diagnosis.

“We immediately went to St. Jude the day after we found out he had leukemia. Ruston truly rallied around us while we were there for so long,” Pipes said. “Our daughter was eight at the time and we had to figure out challenges with taking care of her, getting her to school and back. A lot of people in town stepped up for us, sent us food, sent us cards, and took care of our house. We have felt so much support from the community.”

Reed’s school, A.E. Phillips, even held a “Go Gold Day” in recognition of Childhood Cancer Awareness, wearing gold in his honor. Last year, Reed also received encouragement from the Louisiana Tech “Lady Techsters”, the women’s basketball team.

Together, these stories show how Ruston embodies what it means to be not just a town, but a family. From store owners to schools and neighbors to sports teams, people in the community have chosen to stand in support with children and families affected by cancer.

After September, the yellow ribbons may come down, but the love and support are here to stay. The Lincoln Parish Community has proven that it will not let any family stand against these battles on their own.

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CLICK HERE TO PLAY: WEEK 6

Lincoln Parish Journal readers have an opportunity each week to win FREE money in the Karl Malone Toyota College Football Pick’em presented by Johnson Physical Therapy, FanBase of Ruston, and Martin Presence.

And the best part is it’s FREE … just like your subscription to the LPJ.

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The Lincoln Parish Journal wants to thank Karl Malone Toyota, Johnson Physical Therapy, FanBase of Ruston, and Martin Presence for their title and presenting sponsorships of this year’s College Football Pick’em contest.

We also want to thank Dubach Air and Heat, Ginn’s Autobody, Hart Designs, Tanyard Creek, Charlie’s Carpet Cleaning, Hod Rod BBQ, Louisiana Orchard Realty, Ruston Athletic Supply, Walker and Co., Lulu Pearl, Rusty’s Jambalaya, Greaux the Good, Tommy’s Tees, and RightFiber for their Pick’em Partnerships within the contest. 

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Another week. Another winner.

Russ Thompson was this week’s winner of the Karl Malone Toyota College Football Pick’em Contest presented by FanBase of Ruston, Martin Presence, and Johnson Physical Therapy, and she walked away with $150.

Congratulations, Russ!!

Now, are you ready for some football?!?

Bigger question. Are you ready to win $150 in cash … with the potential to make it $300 if you are perfect on the week (including predicting the No. 1 tiebreaker exactly right).

The Lincoln Parish Journal is holding the 4th Annual Karl Malone Toyota College Football Pick’em Contest presented by FanBase of Ruston, Martin Presence, and Johnson Physical Therapy.

If you live in the deep south, you know College Football is King!

Anyone is eligible to participate and each week one lucky winner will go home with a $150 cash prize (maybe $300).  Each week the winner will be the participant with the best record out of 15 selected college football games (ties will be broken by two separate tiebreakers consisting of guessing the total points scored in two of our weekly contests).

The Karl Malone Toyota College Football Pick’em Contest presented by FanBase of Ruston, Martin Presence, and Johnson Physical Therapy will be conducted for 14 regular season weeks of the college season starting with Week 1 games (August 30).

There is no entry fee, just like there is no cost to SUBSCRIBE to the Lincoln Parish Journal where it will come to your inbox every weekday morning at 6:55 a.m.  It takes 20-30 seconds to sign up and not much longer than that to make your picks.

All contest decisions by LPJ management are final. Weekly winners will be notified Monday and will be requested to take a photo that will run in the following week’s LPJ.

Every participant will receive a FREE subscription to the Journal, if you’re not already signed up for the easily-navigated, convenient 6:55 a.m. daily e-mail. Enjoy it all, for FREE, and enter each week’s contest. You could collect $150 each week!

Week 1: Faith Moss

Week 2: Don Sutton

Week 3: Kim Shackelford

Week 4: Lisa Wright

Week 5: Russ Thompson

Follow the Lincoln Parish Journal each morning at 6:55 right to your inbox. It’s FREE! Just CLICK HERE to sign up.

A man who was allegedly choking his 9-year-old daughter was stopped by a private citizen Saturday before police arrived and arrested him.

Japhus Briggs, 58, of Ruston was arrested Sept. 27, after Ruston Police officers responded to 911 calls of a man on top of a young girl with a bystander attempting to restrain him.

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At about 6:15 p.m., police arrived in the 300 block of East Georgia Avenue in Ruston and attempted to take Briggs into custody. According to an officer’s report, Briggs actively resisted by concealing his hands beneath his body and refusing repeated commands. During the struggle, Briggs attempted to bite an officer.

After continued resistance, officers were able to safely secure Briggs in handcuffs with the assistance of additional personnel and a TASER. Ruston Fire Department personnel evaluated him on scene before transporting him for further medical clearance.

Witnesses reported Briggs had placed his daughter in a chokehold prior to police arrival. A bystander intervened when the children asked him for help. The man freed the child and held Briggs until officers arrived.

Three juvenile victims were identified and assessed at the scene. All three were later taken to Northern Louisiana Medical Center for further evaluation. The investigation confirmed that Briggs, the father, battered all three of his children during the incident.

Following medical clearance, Briggs was transported to the Lincoln Parish Detention Center and booked for three counts of cruelty to juveniles, two counts of resisting an officer, and battery on a police officer.

In a press release, the Ruston Police Department commended the courageous actions of the bystander who intervened, likely preventing further harm to the child before officers arrived.

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.

A tragic hit-and-run crash in Monroe early Monday morning resulted with the death of a pedestrian with police searching for the driver responsible.

At approximately 5:45 a.m., Monroe Police Department officers responded to a crash at the intersection of Marie Place and Milton Street just off Forsythe Avenue. Officers discovered a 62-year-old man had been struck by a vehicle while walking in the roadway. The victim died at the scene from his injuries.

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The driver of the vehicle fled before authorities arrived and has not yet been identified or located.

Monroe Police have identified the victim as David Tucker of Monroe.

Monroe Police are urging anyone with information about the crash or the suspect to come forward. Tips can be submitted by calling the Monroe Police Department at (318) 329-2600 or Crime Stoppers of North Delta at (318) 388-2274 (CASH). Callers may remain anonymous and could be eligible for a cash reward.

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.

In honor of Robert Redford, who passed away September 16 at age 89 at his home in Sundance, Utah, today we resurrect a competition 20 years old in which he played a major part, as he did in all his movies.

In a month of March way back when, before our Journal Papers were born and before some of you reading this were born, we created the Purty Man Tournament to decided who was the prettiest man ever. (We had sone time on our hands.)

The official name was and still is the Best Looking Man Ever Of All-Time Tournament.

We used the same format as March Madness: 64 teams (individual men) divided into four regions and seeded, 1 through 16. 

Readers called in or wrote in with their picks during the competition. We thanked them then and thank them now.

This is the finished and Official Final Sheet, complete with explanations and comments for each in the Field of 64.  And, of course, results. If you see another sheet on the streets or in the highways and byways that says “Official Sheet” but it’s not this one, it’s not the Official Sheet. And that’s official.

NOTE: This is intensive so we have two of the four brackets here, with the winners of each bracket. That gets us halfway to the Final 4. The next two brackets and the Finals will be next week, unless I am fired first. Which would be a shame. Or maybe not.

HISTORY REGIONAL:
1. Sampson: Can all those statues be wrong? This is the Sampson that knocked down the walls, not the Sampson after the chains and the eyes gouged out and all that.
2. Sir Lancelot: Snagged Guinevere from King Arthur.
3. Henry the 8th: He had to be a hottie because after a while the women knew what they were getting into and they STILL hung out with him.
4. Maximus Aurelius: Think The Gladiator movie. That’s who this guy is. If you don’t think he belongs on the list, you tell him.
5. King David: Hey, he’s King David. The guys seeded above him should thank their lucky stars they don’t get him in the first round.
6. JFK: I don’t really get him, but he married Jackie O. I ‘get’ Jackie O.
7. Alexander the Great: The called him “The Great,” and it wasn’t because he conquered the world.
8. Tonto: So good looking he didn’t NEED a mask.
9. Trigger: Better looking than Roy. Or, for that matter, Dale.
10. Moses: He’s on here because Charlton Heston didn’t make the Actors Regional and because he started out in a reed basket.
11. Einstein: Everything’s relative, even good looks.
12. George Washington Carver: The graying on the temples, classic. And don’t EVEN think he was just about peanuts. He had game. Would have been a higher seed but he was rebuilding several acres of plowed fields this year; STILL made the tournament.
13. Romeo: Where art thou, Romeo? “I’m right here! Right here at No. 13!”
14. Abraham: Fathered a nation. Ahem…
15. Jefferson (either Thomas or George): Together, and without the white wigs, these two would have made one good looking, really well-dry-cleaned man.
16. Adam: Once upon a time, the best looking man on the face of the Earth. Dare you to question me.

** All the top seeds win in the first round except those who faced the vaunted Old Testament contingent: Moses gets past Alexander the Mediocre and Abraham lays the wood to Hank the 8th.

After a Sampson victory over Tonto, the second round is dominated by upsets. No. 5 David whips No. 4 Max: (“It’s good to be king…”); Abraham beats JFK and Moses beats Lancelot by a staff, settling up an Old Testament-flavored Regional.

With the lineage so thick you could cut it with an ancient dagger, Sampson beats David, Moses beats Abraham, then Moses — again, a No. 10 seed —slays No. 1 Sampson in a scrap for the ages.

No. 10-seed Moses advances from the History Regional.

ACTORS REGIONAL:
1. Paul Newman: (This is back when I was still trying to get in good with Joanne Woodward.)
2. Robert Redford: Even as a youngster, had ‘champion’ written all over him.
3. Matthew McConaughey: He doesn’t wear deodorant, but this isn’t scratch-and-sniff.
4. Sean Connery: “Connery. Sean Connery.”
5. Patrick Dempsey: Dr. McFive-Seed
6. George Clooney: In an episode of Sex in the City, the girls compared him to a Chanel Suit; he never goes out of style.
7. Sidney Portier: Clooneyish back in his day.
8. Cary Grant: See 8 seed.
9. Cary Grant: I wanted to make sure he won a game, so I made him an 8 and a 9 for a first-round matchup. He deserves it. Cool customer, sleek and smooth.
10. Tom Selleck: My mother did not miss Magnum, P.I. She did not miss it, I’m telling you.
11. Taye Diggs: Got game and the young ladies love him.
12. Steve McQueen: Little guy who played big.
13. Benjamin Bratt: Young Cary Grant in style.
14. Denzell Washington: Cary Grant without the polish. (Remind me to tell you about the time I almost ran over him in Shreveport. Still scares me. Near disaster. True story.)
15. Marlon Brando: He was a contender.
16. Robert Conrad: In the wild, wild West; so good he got his own battery commercial.

** The only first-round upset: Bratt surprises Connery, Sean Connery, then rides the wave of momentum to an upset of Dr. McFive-Seed in the second round and — goodness — No. 1-seed Paul Newman in the Regional Semis. (I did the seeding as the lone member of the Tournament Committee and now, 20 years later, I’m STILL surprised Newman got beat.) McConaughey beats Clooney but then loses to Redford in the Regional semis, if for no other reason than I’m tired of having to look to see how to spell his name.

Bratt’s impressive run ended against Redford in the Regional Finals; it’s a familiar feeling when you’re going up against The Sundance Kid

No. 2-seed Robert Redford advances from the Actor’s Regional.

So Moses and Redford are in the Final Four. 

One man from the ATHLETES REGIONAL and another from the POTPOURRI REGIONAL (think Usher, Lord Byron, Bugs Bunny, e.g.) will advance to face them. That’s next week. With this AND college football AND October baseball, that’s a lot of drama, I know. Ain’t it great?!

Contact Teddy at teddy@latech.edu

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There’s a special place in the afterlife for whoever decided that plastic wrap should be the default packaging for every item that’s already hard to open. You know the ones—DVDs (back when those existed), cucumbers, remote controls, and the dreaded double-layered plastic fortress around batteries. It’s like the manufacturers said, “This item is mildly inconvenient to open. Let’s make it a spiritual trial.”

You tug, you peel, you slice, you pray. And just when you think you’ve made progress, the wrap retaliates—clinging to your fingers like a needy toddler, refusing to be discarded. It’s not just packaging. It’s a test of character.

But what, exactly, are they protecting?

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Is the cucumber going to escape? Is the remote control plotting a rebellion? Are the batteries going to unionize and demand better working conditions? No. The plastic wrap is there to protect the item from… us. From our grubby, impulsive, human hands. It’s a barrier. A shield. A clingy, transparent “Do Not Enter” sign for consumer goods.

And here’s where it gets theological.

In Ephesians 6, Paul talks about the “armor of God”—truth, righteousness, peace, faith, salvation, and the Word. It’s divine packaging, really. A spiritual cling wrap designed to protect us from the world’s sharp edges. Because let’s be honest: life is full of metaphorical box cutters. Gossip, temptation, passive-aggressive emails, and people who say “Let’s circle back.”

Just like that shrink-wrapped pack of AA batteries, we too need layers. Not to keep others out entirely, but to slow down the unwrapping. To make people pause and consider: “Is this worth the effort?” Because vulnerability is sacred. You don’t just hand it out like free samples at Costco.

Jesus himself had boundaries. He withdrew from crowds. He napped during storms. He didn’t answer every question. He didn’t heal every person. He wrapped himself in solitude, prayer, and intentionality. Not because he was hiding, but because he was protecting the mission.

So maybe the plastic wrap isn’t just annoying. Maybe it’s a parable.

Maybe it’s saying: “Hey, not everything should be instantly accessible. Some things are worth the struggle. Some things need protection. Some things—like your peace, your purpose, your spiritual batteries—should be wrapped up tight until the right moment.”

Of course, this doesn’t mean we should start shrink-wrapping our emotions or encasing our personalities in bubble wrap. But it does mean we get to choose who gets access. Who gets to peel back the layers. Who gets to see the real you underneath the cling.

And if someone’s not willing to wrestle with a little plastic wrap, maybe they’re not ready for the contents.

So next time you’re battling a stubborn package, take a breath. Channel your inner apostle. Remember that even the holiest things come wrapped. And maybe—just maybe—that frustrating layer is a divine reminder:

You are worth protecting.

Even if it takes scissors, a minor meltdown, and a YouTube tutorial to get there.

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

Louisiana Tech Tennis head coach Amy Sargeant announced Tuesday the hiring of Eleonora Molinaro as the new assistant coach for the Bulldogs.

Molinaro, a native of Luxembourg City, Luxembourg, comes to Ruston following a stellar collegiate career at the University of Tennessee where she compiled 106 victories and was a three-time SEC Honor Roll recipient.

“We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Ele to our coaching staff!” said Sargeant. “I have known her since her junior days as a top 10 ITF player and have admired her journey every step of the way – through the pro tour, collegiate tour, and now into coaching.

“Her knowledge, passion, and experience are unmatched, and her addition makes our staff one of the strongest in the country. We are beyond fortunate to have her join the team and the Bulldog Standard.”

Molinaro was part of four NCAA Tournament teams, including her senior year when UT reached the NCAA Final Four for just the second time in program history. She went 17-4 in singles and 12-3 in doubles overall as the Volunteers finished the season ranked ninth in the country.

“I am honored to take on the role of assistant tennis coach while advancing my graduate studies,” said Molinaro. “From representing Luxembourg with pride to competing at the Division I level, I have learned that the court is not just where matches are won. It is where character is built. I am excited to push their limits, serve their communities, and thrive both in the classroom and on the court.”

She amassed a career singles record of 56-37 and a career doubles record of 50-31, ranking as high as No. 47 in the nation in doubles. As a junior, she totaled 31 victories on the court while helping the Volunteers finish third in the SEC with an 11-2 conference mark.

Sophomore year was a stellar one for Molinaro with single-season high totals in singles and doubles victories, winning her 25th singles match against VCU in the NCAA Tournament. She was a 2022 ITA Scholar-Athlete as well as an SEC Player of the Week recipient after going 2-0 in singles and 1-1 in doubles as Tennessee picked up a pair of road wins against Charlotte and Wake Forest.

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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. 

Wednesday, Oct. 1
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
12-1 p.m.: Rotary Club meeting (Historic Fire Station)

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Thursday, Oct. 2
11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Kiwanis Club lunch and program (Trinity Methodist Church fellowship hall)
4 p.m.: Ribbon cutting celebrating Courtesy Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Ruston (1371 N. Service Rd., Ruston)
5-6 p.m.: All welcome to free meal hosted by 5 Loaves 2 Fish Ministry (Ruston Housing Authority, Maryland Plaza Community Room, 615 N. Farmerville St.)
6 p.m.: Southern A’Chord Chorus rehearsal (Presbyterian Church fellowship hall, 212 N. Bonner St.; open to all women singers)
6 p.m.GSU volleyball
7 p.m.: LA Tech soccer

Friday, Oct. 3
6:30 p.m.: LA Tech volleyball
7 p.m.: Lincoln Prep football
7 p.m.: Cedar Creek football

Saturday, Oct. 4
9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Farmers Market
1 p.m.: LA Tech volleyball

Sunday, Oct. 5
1 p.m.: LA Tech soccer
2 p.m.: GSU volleyball

Monday, Oct. 6
11:30 a.m.: Lunch on Us (Presbyterian Church, 212 North Bonner Street., Ruston) — everyone welcome
5:30 p.m.: Ruston City Council meeting (Ruston City Hall)
5:30 p.m.: North Central Louisiana Master Gardeners present seminar on Monarch Butterflies (Lincoln Parish Library)
6 p.m.: Toastmasters International meeting (Louisiana Center for the Blind, 101 South Trenton Street)
6 p.m.: GSU volleyball
6-9 p.m.: Creative Meetups (Creatives at Work, 301 N. Trenton)

Tuesday, Oct. 7
6 p.m.: Lincoln Parish School Board meeting (410 S. Farmerville St., Ruston)

Wednesday, Oct. 8
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
12-1 p.m.: Rotary Club meeting (Historic Fire Station)

Thursday, Oct. 9
9:30 a.m.: Piney Hills Quilt Guild meeting (Grace Methodist Church)
11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Kiwanis Club lunch and program (Trinity Methodist Church fellowship hall)
6 p.m.: Southern A’Chord Chorus rehearsal (Presbyterian Church fellowship hall, 212 N. Bonner St.; open to all women singers)

Friday, Oct. 10
2 p.m.: GSU Homecoming pep rally (Main Street, Grambling)
6:30 p.m.: LA Tech volleyball
7 p.m.: Ruston High football (Homecoming)
7 p.m.: Cedar Creek football

Saturday, Oct. 11
8:30-11:30 a.m.: Hazardous Waste Material Collection and Recycling (2609 Farmerville St.)
9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Farmers Market
1 p.m.: LA Tech volleyball
6 p.m.: Grambling State v. Texas Southern (Homecoming)
6-8:30 p.m.: Pumpkins in the Park (Railroad Park)

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.

Why would anyone walk away from fishing for a living? Who in their right mind would want to give up this lifestyle? Well, if you sit down and visit with any one of several anglers who have lived “the dream” and fished professionally, you’ll understand the trials and tribulations that go with the job.

It’s truly a lifestyle very much like those we call gypsies. Traveling the country like a circus from town to town or in the fishing world, lake to lake. Anglers traverse the United States from the south with Florida’s Lake Okeechobee to as far north as the Great Lakes. From Lake Murray, South Carolina, in the east to as far west as Lake Amistad in Del Rio, Texas.

Nothing ages a person more than travel and stress. It’s hours upon hours of lonely windshield time. Each tournament can mean anywhere from 15 to 18 hours of travel time one way depending on where they choose to call home.

But some anglers have tried to make their drives much shorter by uprooting their families and moving to the southeastern part of the United States since the majority of the tournaments are in this part of the country.

Many anglers who have grown up on the west coast looking to pursue “the dream” of a professional bass fishing career have made a career move to Alabama, Georgia, or Tennessee just to help cut down on road time in between events.

This life-changing move is not just about the angler, but their families as well. Talking to several pro anglers over the years, time away from family is the hardest part of pursuing the life of a professional angler.

Sacrifices are made like missing birthdays, Mother’s Day, Easter and many more events that are considered family time. Many tears have been shed by anglers as they leave their driveways headed for the next event as they look into their review mirror and the wife and kids are waving goodbye, wondering when dad will return.

This is the emotional sacrifice ALL professional anglers endure. Like so many other jobs, it takes a toll on the angler himself and the family. Many divorces have been had over an angler chasing this so-called dream.

It takes a special wife who is strong and can handle the challenges of raising kids, running a household and dealing with everyday life while the man of the house is gone for several weeks straight. A conversation I had with pro angler Shaw Grigsby revealed that he figured up that he had slept in his own bed only three days out of the month of April one year.

This time away from home is the norm and not the exception. That’s why so many successful touring pros give all the credit to their wives for their success because she is the one holding down the fort while they as anglers try and do their jobs.

So, what’s the attraction to be a professional angler? Is it the fancy truck and boat wraps? Is it the cool looking logoed shirts the anglers wear? Yes, to both of these, and the same as any other high-profile job, the fame and fortune and a lifestyle that’s like no other.

But if you think “going fishing” everyday sounds like fun, understand this. While you’re going to the office for your job, their office as professional anglers is at the lake. Their job requires them to back their boats in the water every single day in all types of weather.

Their office is outdoors and very seldom do they get days off just because it’s raining, cold or hot. They still must find fish and figure out how to compete and catch bass in all types of weather conditions. Their day starts at sunrise and ends at sunset!

While we see these anglers at an expo or the weigh-ins, what we don’t see are the number of hours they put in researching their next body of water, tackle preparation, social media postings, and sponsor meetings.

To be a professional angler is a full-time job that not just anyone can do. It takes a person with special talent who is committed and dedicated to being a professional angler. It also takes a team to make an angler successful. In most cases it’s the wife/business manager that helps to make these pros successful in the bass fishing world.

I hope you now have a better understanding of what it’s like to be a professional bass fisherman. So, if you think this is the life for you, good luck because you’re going to need it.

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Courtesy of LA Tech Athletic Communications

Louisiana Tech softball will host the Second Annual “Dinner on the Diamond”, presented by Karl Malone Toyota and Ruston Apothecare, on Saturday, October 11, at 7 p.m. at Dr. Billy Bundrick Field featuring three-time All-American and Tech Hall of Famer Debbie Nichols-Hedrick.

The event will take place on the turf infield at the home of Bulldog Softball, following last year’s successful debut.

In addition to hearing from Nichols-Hedrick, attendees will also hear from Bulldog head coach Josh Taylor, two-time Conference USA Coach of the Year. It’s an opportunity to come out and meet the 2025-26 Bulldogs and hear about the past and the present.

“We are excited about the Second Annual Dinner on the Diamond and are honored to welcome back All-American Debbie Nichols to be our featured guest for the event,” said Taylor, two-time. “Debbie is the epitome of what Louisiana Tech Softball has been about for more than four decades and what we continue to strive for every single year. She is truly one of the all-time greats.

“We are also so thankful to Karl Malone Toyota and Ruston Apothecare for their generosity in serving as our partners for this wonderful event.”

Individual tickets for the Dinner on the Diamond are $35 each, while tables start at $350 for a party of eight, with the option to reduce your party to sit with one, or two, of our players. To purchase tickets for Dinner on the Diamond, go to LATechSports.com/DinnerOnTheDiamond.

The evening will include a formal program, dinner with a cash bar, silent auction, raffles and more. Gates open at 6:30 p.m. with dinner being served at 7 p.m. and the formal program starting at 7:30 p.m.

During her four-year career, Nichols-Hedrick, who was Debbie Nichols at the time, became only the second female athlete at Louisiana Tech to ever obtain All-American honors three straight years, accomplishing the feat in 1988, 1989, and 1990.

“I am honored for the opportunity to return to my alma mater and take part in the Second Annual Dinner on the Diamond,” said Nichols-Hedrick. “This is a special chance to give back to the place that taught me the values of discipline, teamwork, and resilience.”

Nichols-Hedrick led the Lady Techsters to the NCAA Tournament in 1987, 1988, and 1989 while also being named the Louisiana Tech Player of the Year as a freshman, sophomore and senior. She pitched every inning of the 1988 season for the Lady Techsters, logging 409 innings and amassing a 50-8 mark that season. The Mesquite, Texas native still holds numerous school and NCAA records, including the most career starts (193), most career complete games (182) and most shutouts in a season (36) in 1988.

Fans are encouraged to stay through the weekend as LA Tech will host Baton Rouge Community College on Sunday, Oct. 12, at 1 p.m. as part of its fall schedule.

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Memorial services for Pamela Kathleen Frasier, age 70 of Dubach, LA will be held at 2:00 PM, Wednesday, October 1, 2025 at Mineral Springs Baptist Church in Dubach, LA with Bro. Barry Joyner officiating.  Burial will follow in Mineral Springs Cemetery in Dubach under the direction of Owens Memorial Chapel Funeral Home of Ruston, LA.

Pam was born on January 9, 1955 in San Diego, CA to Elmer and Alice Norsworthy Guffee and passed away Sunday, September 28, 2025 in New Orleans, LA. She was an avid antique collector, loved to travel, and loved her Thursday night group of friends who met weekly. Pam worked and retired from Origin Bank, where her co-workers became her bank family that she loved very much. The beach was her happy place and she loved her dog, Bella. Pam enjoyed and cherished being with her family and always made Christmas very special, especially for the grandkids. She took very good care of Barry, who loved her so much for her devotion.

Pam is preceded in death by her father, Elmer Guffee and father-in-law, Wallace Frasier.  She is survived by her husband of 42 years, Barry Wade Frasier; mother, Alice Guffee; step-children, Melissa Skillingstad, Tiffany McLain and Jason , and John Frasier and Kayla; grandchildren: Frasier Hogan, Jordan Skillingstad and Lauren, Parker Skillingstad and Sarah, Jackson Skillingstad and Cassie, Conner Frasier and Gabby, Madeline Hogan, and Landry Hogan; great-grandchild, Easton Skillingstad; mother-in-law, Barbara Frasier; and brother-in-law, Randy Frasier and wife Kathy.

Visitation will be from 12:00 PM until service time at Mineral Springs Baptist Church. 

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Abbie Jo Baldwin 
Friday 03/24/1950 — Tuesday 09/23/2025  
Visitation: Wednesday 10/01/2025 9:00am to 11:00am at King’s Funeral Home 
Celebration of Life: Wednesday 10/01/2025 11:00am at King’s Funeral Home 
Interment: Wednesday 10/01/2025 Following Service, Grambling Memorial Garden, Highway 80 West, Grambling 

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Courtesy of LA Tech University Communications

Dr. Matt Napoli, ’04, was recently confirmed by the U.S. Senate as deputy administrator for defense nuclear nonproliferation for the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA).

As NNSA’s deputy administrator for defense nuclear nonproliferation, Napoli will set strategic direction for the administration’s multifaceted efforts to prevent proliferation, reduce the global threat of nuclear and radiological terrorism, and support arms control monitoring and verification.

A Monroe native, Napoli graduated from Louisiana Tech in 2004 with a degree in mechanical engineering and remains involved with the Washington, D.C. chapter of the Louisiana Tech Alumni Association. Napoli earned his master’s in mechanical engineering from the Naval Postgraduate School, and a Ph.D. from the George Washington University in public policy and administration with a concentration in science and technology policy. Napoli is a graduate of the Bettis Reactor Engineering School, a graduate-level school administered by U.S. government on classified military applications of nuclear energy. He also completed a fellowship with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s Seminar XXI program on foreign policy and national security.

In celebrating Napoli’s achievement, Dr. Heath Tims, CEO of the Louisiana Tech University Alumni Association and associate vice president of university engagement, said, “Congratulations to Dr. Napoli on this career milestone and for his dedication to selfless service. Matt is an avid Tech supporter and a prime example of what it means to live our calling to ever loyal be.”

Before joining the NNSA, he was named the executive director of foreign and public affairs at Naval Reactors in 2017. He previously served as the foreign policy advisor to the director of Naval Reactors, a four-star Admiral, as well as a lead technical advisor to the deputy director of Naval Reactors. His responsibilities included maintaining oversight of government-to-government military nuclear agreements and managing U.S. nuclear-powered warship port entry policy to over 150 ports in over 50 countries. He served as the Naval Reactors representative to the National Security Council, U.S. Interagency, and Intelligence Community on nuclear policy matters, overseeing all public affairs activities for the Program, and was a lead spokesman for Naval Reactors.

Prior to this service, Napoli was commissioned as an officer in the U.S. Navy in 2004, where he served as the lead nuclear components engineer for the U.S. Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program, also known as Naval Reactors. At the end of his Navy service, he was selected to remain as a federal civilian at Naval Reactors, a joint Department of Navy and Department of Energy organization.

“Dr. Matt Napoli’s career demonstrates how a strong foundation in engineering can lead to meaningful impact on global security and nuclear policy. His leadership in nonproliferation reflects the technical excellence, critical thinking, and service-minded innovation we strive to develop at Louisiana Tech,” said Dr. Collin Wick, dean of the College of Engineering and Science. “We’re proud of his achievements and the vital role he plays in advancing national and international security.”

Napoli is a lifetime member on the Council on Foreign Relations. He received two Department of Navy superior public service awards for his work as a chief architect in the creation of the Australia, United Kingdom, and United States enhanced trilateral security partnership known as “AUKUS” and separately for his work with the Government of Japan.

Additionally, he received two awards from the Secretary of Energy for his work with the United Kingdom and the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. He has been recognized by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and, during his active-duty service, received the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal.

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Lincoln Parish residents have an opportunity to interact with local law enforcement officers and other city officials during National Night Out set for Tuesday, October 7 from 5 to 8 p.m. at Zion Traveler Baptist Church.

National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes strong police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie to make our neighborhoods safer, more caring places to live and work.

“This is another great event trying to bring all parties within our city and parish together,” said Ruston Mayor Ronny Walker. “That’s one of our main focuses and has been for a while. It’s why we started Real Change of Ruston (years ago) to help bring unity to our area.

“I appreciate Zion Traveler’s Baptist Church and (Pastor) Maurice White for being such a big part of this event. I appreciate our local law enforcement for being so involved in this. I am looking forward to a great night.”

The event is dedicated to bringing community together to foster awareness, safety, and community solidarity. National Night Out highlights the crucial role of partnerships between law enforcement and the community, as well as the importance of citizen engagement. When police and community members collaborate closely, remarkable outcomes can occur.

“We are extremely grateful to Pastor Maurice White and Zion Traveler Baptist Church for helping revive our National Night Out,” said Lincoln Parish Sheriff Department Deputy Sheriff Landon Hunt. “This event highlights one of our main priorities: building positive relationships with the citizens we serve and working together to reduce crime and violence.

 “It also a wonderful opportunity for children to connect with our deputies, play basketball with them and see firsthand that we are here to help them. National Night Out is a powerful reminder of the unity and strength that comes when local law enforcement and the community stand together.”

The Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s Office, the Ruston Police Department, and other local and state law enforcement offices will be represented at the event that is free and open to the public. It will include plenty of food, fun, and fellowship as well as giveaways and a guest appearance by Big Al Cherry.

“This is another great opportunity to bring our local law enforcement departments and our community together,” said LPSO Sgt. Iris Winston. “We want to show our community that we, as law enforcement agencies, are here for you. We want people to understand that we are everyday citizens as well.

“It’s our job to protect our residents, but we are real people who truly care about the people of Lincoln Parish. It allows us to show a softer side. I think this is good because many times our interactions are with people many times on the worst day of their life.”

Winston said some of the evening’s activities include a 3-on-3 basketball game with law enforcement officers playing with kids in the gym.

“It’s for whoever wants to participate in this,” said Sgt. Winston. “We will have our officers playing basketball with them.”

There will also be a dunking booth where event goers will have a chance to dunk police officers, including LPSO Sheriff Stephen Williams.

The event is sponsored by Origin Bank, AT&T, Century Next Bank, Gibsland Bank and Trust, the City of Ruston, Real Change of Ruston, Zion Traveler Baptist Church, Starbucks Coffee, and Associa.

Some of these businesses and others will have booths on site handing out information.

If you have any questions or would like to become a sponsor or vendor, please contact Sgt. Winston at iwinston@lpsheriff.org or 318-251-6440 for more information. If you would like a free information-only vendor booth, please scan the QR code below to sign up.

“We are looking for all types of vendors,” said Sgt. Winston. “We have a good variety already, but we are hoping to add more prior to the event. We want as many vendors as our location will fit.”

Sgt. Winston said that there is no charge for anyone to become a vendor at the event, but vendors must be informational only (no sales are allowed at the event).

This is an advertorial

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By Laura Hunt Miller

Not long ago, a number of mature trees were removed from a downtown lot in Ruston. And boy was there a hub-bub about it.

While the strong reaction came as a surprise to some, others understood both sides of the situation and felt the loss. When familiar landscapes change in ways we perceive as negative, especially in a communal space like our downtown, it can feel like our own memories have been compromised, or that we have lost a connection to those who came before us in that same space. Especially when the loss involves something like a mature tree that cannot be regrown in our lifetime.

Now what’s done is done, so let’s leave the pitchforks in the shed, and focus on how best to move forward—together—as both community developers and citizens.

After all, real progress isn’t about arguing over who was right or wrong, it’s about forging new paths with a more unified vision for everyone. And the future I hope we can begin to build is one where we think differently about our urban trees and green spaces.

Between 1950 and today, generations of urban trees have been lost. Why? Because green elements are typically treated as ornamental or non-essential, the stuff that gets tacked on at the end of a project if there’s time or money left. Or they are seen as obstacles that have to be cleared to get anything done. This mentality stems from a mix of historic trends and economic pressures that shaped the way our nation was formed.

After World War II, the U.S. saw a massive push for civil engineering–led suburban expansion, highway construction, and commercial sprawl. The priority was speed, affordability, and accommodating cars, not ecological balance. If a line-item didn’t support those goals, it often wasn’t included.

In an increasingly litigious country, trees also became something developers and business owners grew hesitant to make room for as the risk-reward equation was not encouraging. Working around trees introduced the chance of root damage and potential liability from dying trees, construction delays, or even accidents and code violations. Clearing the site entirely became the safer bet, at least on paper (ironically). Over time, many cities had to step in with ordinances or preservation incentives just to keep green spaces from vanishing altogether.

Our own downtown shows a distinct loss of greenery over the past century as the image above demonstrates. This is to be expected as an area populates with buildings, roads and the other infrastructural needs that come with growth. But now that we’re closer to 2050 than 1950, do we still want to elevate practices that leave our urban environments more barren than shaded? Can we find a way to support growth, business, and green spaces?

In the second part of this article, we’ll explore the modern benefits of urban greenery and the methods cities are using to incorporate more green back into their communities.

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CLICK HERE TO PLAY

Lincoln Parish Journal readers have an opportunity each week to win FREE money in the Karl Malone Toyota College Football Pick’em presented by Johnson Physical Therapy, FanBase of Ruston, and Martin Presence.

And the best part is it’s FREE … just like your subscription to the LPJ.

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The Lincoln Parish Journal wants to thank Karl Malone Toyota, Johnson Physical Therapy, FanBase of Ruston, and Martin Presence for their title and presenting sponsorships of this year’s College Football Pick’em contest.

We also want to thank Dubach Air and Heat, Ginn’s Autobody, Hart Designs, Tanyard Creek, Charlie’s Carpet Cleaning, Hod Rod BBQ, Louisiana Orchard Realty, Ruston Athletic Supply, Walker and Co., Lulu Pearl, Rusty’s Jambalaya, Greaux the Good, Tommy’s Tees, and RightFiber for their Pick’em Partnerships within the contest. 

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Are you ready for some football?!?

Bigger question. Are you ready to win $150 in cash … with the potential to make it $300 if you are perfect on the week (including predicting the No. 1 tiebreaker exactly right).

The Lincoln Parish Journal is holding the 4th Annual Karl Malone Toyota College Football Pick’em Contest presented by FanBase of Ruston, Martin Presence, and Johnson Physical Therapy.

If you live in the deep south, you know College Football is King!

Anyone is eligible to participate and each week one lucky winner will go home with a $150 cash prize (maybe $300).  Each week the winner will be the participant with the best record out of 15 selected college football games (ties will be broken by two separate tiebreakers consisting of guessing the total points scored in two of our weekly contests).

The Karl Malone Toyota College Football Pick’em Contest presented by FanBase of Ruston, Martin Presence, and Johnson Physical Therapy will be conducted for 14 regular season weeks of the college season starting with Week 1 games (August 30).

There is no entry fee, just like there is no cost to SUBSCRIBE to the Lincoln Parish Journal where it will come to your inbox every weekday morning at 6:55 a.m.  It takes 20-30 seconds to sign up and not much longer than that to make your picks.

All contest decisions by LPJ management are final. Weekly winners will be notified Monday and will be requested to take a photo that will run in the following week’s LPJ.

Every participant will receive a FREE subscription to the Journal, if you’re not already signed up for the easily-navigated, convenient 6:55 a.m. daily e-mail. Enjoy it all, for FREE, and enter each week’s contest. You could collect $150 each week!

Follow the Lincoln Parish Journal each morning at 6:55 right to your inbox. It’s FREE! Just CLICK HERE to sign up.

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Ruston High climbed one spot this week in the Louisiana Sports Writers Association weekly poll from No. 3 to No. 2 following the 49-21 win Friday against Midland Legacy.

Class 5A

School, 1^st rec, points, Prev. rank

1. Karr (11)                                4-0                                       132            1

2. Ruston                                   4-0                                        116             3

3. Central                                   4-0                                         95            4

4. St. Augustine                         4-0                                         92            5

5. Alexandria                             4-0                                         83            6

6. Catholic-Baton Rouge           3-1                                         80             2

7. John Curtis                            3-0                                         73            8

8. Zachary                                 3-0                                         56            9

9. Brother Martin                      4-0                                         36           10

10. West Monroe                       3-1                                         33            NR

Others receiving votes: Neville 16, Terrebonne 16, Evangel Christian 10, Ouachita 5, Destrehan 5, Parkway 2, Archbishop Rummel 2, Carencro 2, Airline 1, East Ascension 1.

 

Class 4A

School, 1^st rec, points, Prev. rank                                                     

1. North DeSoto (9)                        4-0                                     127           1

2. Teurlings Catholic (2)                4-0                                      120           2

3. St. Thomas More                        2-2                                      102          T3

4. Franklin Parish                           3-1                                      101          T3

5. Franklinton                                 3-1                                        78           5

6. Lakeshore                                   4-0                                        76           6

7. St. Charles                                  4-0                                        70           7

8. Plaquemine                                 3-1                                        58           8

9. Iowa                                            4-0                                        46           9

10. Archbishop Shaw                      2-2                                       40           10

Others receiving votes: Vandebilt Catholic 14, Tioga 7, Belle Chasse 5, E.D. White 5, Lutcher 5, Westgate 3.

 

Class 3A

School, 1^st rec, points, Prev. rank

1. Jewel Sumner (5)                        4-0                                     117          1

2. St. James (2)                               3-1                                      113          2

3. Sterlington (1)                             3-1                                     110          3

4. Madison Prep (1)                        3-1                                       95          4

5. Bunkie (1)                                   4-0                                       94          5

6. Jena                                             4-0                                       78          6

7. University (1)                              2-2                                       73          7

8. Lake Charles College Prep         3-1                                       50          8

9. Erath                                            4-0                                       42         10

10. Church Point                             3-1                                       36          9

Others receiving votes: Jennings 29, Marksville 8, Amite 6, John F. Kennedy 5, Westlake 2.

 

Class 2A

School, 1^st rec, points, Prev. rank

1. Ouachita Christian (8)                        4-0                              125           2

2. Dunham (1)                                         3-1                             113           4

3. Lafayette Christian Academy              3-1                             108           1

4. Calvary Baptist (1)                             3-1                                97           5

5. Notre Dame                                        3-1                                91           6

6. Catholic-New Iberia (1)                      3-1                               82           3

7. Lafayette Renaissance Charter           4-0                                58           7

8. Oak Grove                                          3-1                                54           8

9. Ferriday                                               4-0                               40            9

10. South Plaquemines                           3-1                                37          10

Others receiving votes: Kinder 13, Mangham 13, Newman 9, Union Parish 9, Northlake Christian 6, East Feliciana 3.

 

Class 1A

School, 1^st rec, points, Prev. rank

1. Haynesville (11)                                 4-0                               132           1

2. Jeanerette                                            4-0                               115           3

3. Covenant Christian                             3-1                                 99           4

4. Southern Lab                                      3-1                                  93          5

5. Hamilton Christian                             4-0                                  83          6

6. Opelousas Catholic                             3-1                                 79           2

7. Riverside                                             3-1                                 72           8

8. Kentwood                                            2-2                                59           9

9. Ascension Episcopal                           4-0                                 26          NR

10. Vermilion Catholic                            1-3                                 22           7  

Others receiving votes: Sacred Heart-Ville Platte 18, North Iberville 15, Logansport 13, Ascension Catholic 12, Westminster-Opelousas 10, St. Edmund 7, Grand Lake 2, General Trass 1.

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Four men were arrested in Ruston Sunday night after citizen reports of suspicious activity with the recovery of enhanced firearms and ski masks.

As Ruston Police responded to the area of Apple Drive about 9:50 p.m. on September 28, a red sedan was observed seen leaving the area quickly after noticing police presence. An officer on scene saw four men quickly enter the vehicle before it departed. Officers located the vehicle and conducted a traffic stop near the 800 block of Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue.

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During the investigation the vehicle, occupied by men wearing mostly all black, was searched and the following items were recovered:

–9mm pistol (reported stolen from a local vehicle burglary)

–.40 caliber handgun with extended magazine

–MAC 10 with suppressor and extended magazine

–AR pistol with brass catcher

–A small amount of marijuana

–Two ski masks and numerous pairs of gloves throughout the vehicle and on the occupants

An officer told Lincoln Parish Journal that the enhanced firearms with extra ammo capacity, brass catcher, and suppressor, along with the ski masks and gloves are indicators of likely intent to commit more serious crimes.

The four suspects were identified as Roderius Richardson, 23, Kenterion Carr, 25, Markecon Carr, 20, and Jeremiah Kinsey, 20, all of Arcadia. All four were taken into custody without incident and taken to the Lincoln Parish Detention Center with charges as follows:

–Roderius Richardson – illegal possession of a stolen firearm and possession of marijuana.

–Kenterion Carr – illegal possession of a stolen firearm and warrants from Bienville Parish.

–Markecon Carr – illegal possession of a stolen firearm.

–Jeremiah Kinsey -illegal possession of a stolen firearm and possession of an unregistered firearm suppressor.

A RPD press release noted how this case demonstrates how quickly a suspicious situation can escalate. “We want to encourage our community to report suspicious activity,” RPD said.

If anyone has further information, please contact the Ruston Police Department at 318-255-4141.

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.

Autumn has officially arrived – or so the calendar says. But here in Louisiana, it takes a little imagination to actually believe that fact.

The first week of fall often looks a lot like the last week of summer: 90-degree afternoons (or thereabouts), sticky humidity and evenings when flip-flops and T-shirts are still the dress code of choice. The trees remain stubbornly green, and those picture-perfect shades of red and gold we see in postcards belong to some other part of the country.

Still, there are signs. Pumpkins appear on doorsteps and pile up in grocery store bins. Pumpkin spice shows up in everything from lattes to candles – though half of us are still not quite sure what “pumpkin spice” actually is. These little signals whisper that change is on the horizon, even if it hasn’t fully settled in yet.

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Isn’t that often how life works? We recognize a new season before it fully arrives. We sense God’s nudging us toward change, but the outward signs lag behind. We may still feel caught in summer’s heat while autumn’s coolness is promised but not yet visible.

Scripture speaks of this tension between the seen and the unseen, the now and the not yet. Ecclesiastes 3:1 reminds us, “To everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven.” Sometimes the season has shifted, even if the thermometer hasn’t caught up.

The Bible often ties autumn to harvest and rain. Deuteronomy 11:14 promises that God will send “autumn and spring rains” so his people can gather grain and other crops. Jeremiah 5:24 calls us to remember the Lord, “who gives autumn and spring rains in season, who assures us of the regular weeks of harvest.”

These verses remind us that autumn is about more than cooler air or colored leaves. It’s about gathering. It’s about reaping what has been sown. It’s about recognizing God’s faithful provision.

Maybe you are in a personal autumn right now – a time of harvest. Years of work, effort or prayer may finally be producing fruit. Or perhaps your autumn looks more like the Louisiana version – where the fruit is promised but not fully visible yet. You trust God’s timing, even when the calendar says “fall” but your experience still feels like summer.

Autumn also brings a lesson in letting go. The leaves’ bright display signals not only beauty but also change and release. The leaves don’t cling forever; they trust the cycle God created. In the same way, we may be called to release burdens, regrets or even familiar roles. That kind of surrender can be bittersweet, but autumn teaches us that letting go makes space for rest, renewal and new growth to come.

And then there’s gratitude. Autumn traditions remind us to gather around tables, to be grateful for the fellowship of family and friends, and to pause and thank God for his gifts. James 1:17 tells us, “Every good and perfect gift is from above.” Whether your blessings come in armfuls or in smaller, humbler ways, each one can be received with thanksgiving. Just as farmers gather crops with thanksgiving, so we can gather the blessings of each day and lift them to God with grateful hearts.

So as pumpkins brighten porches and pumpkin spice fills the air – even if the thermometer indicates otherwise – let’s allow autumn to remind us of life’s deeper rhythms. Each segment of the calendar has its promise, its challenge and its gift. Through them all, God remains faithful, guiding us step by step as the seasons unfold.

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Sallie Rose Hollis lives in Ruston and retired from Louisiana Tech as an associate professor of journalism and the assistant director of the News Bureau. She can be contacted at sallierose@mail.com.

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.