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Month: October 2025
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.
Friday, Oct. 31
Halloween
2 p.m.: LA Tech volleyball
7 p.m.: LA Tech v. Sam Houston (Homecoming)
7 p.m.: Lincoln Prep football
Saturday, Nov. 1
9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Farmers Market
10 a.m.: Bingo at Dubach Community Center (106 Smith St., Dubach)
1 p.m.: LA Tech volleyball
2 p.m.: Grambling State v. Alabama A&M
Sunday, Nov. 2
Daylight Saving Time
Monday, Nov. 3
10:30 a.m.: Party Fowl ribbon cutting (102 N. Homer St.)
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)
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, Nov. 4
9:30 p.m.: Ribbon cutting celebrating Lowder Baking Company (106 W. Park Ave.)
4 p.m.: GSU volleyball
6 p.m.: Lincoln Parish School Board meeting (410 S. Farmerville St.)
Wednesday, Nov. 5
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, Nov. 6
11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Kiwanis Club lunch and program (Trinity Methodist Church fellowship hall)
4:30-5:30 p.m.: Free meal sponsored by the Presbyterian Church and 5 Loaves 2 Fish Ministry (Ruston Housing Authority Community Room, 901 MLK Dr.) All welcome to come.
6 p.m.: Southern A’Chord Chorus rehearsal (Presbyterian Church fellowship hall, 212 N. Bonner St.; open to all women singers)
Friday, Nov. 7
7 p.m.: Ruston High Football
Saturday, Nov. 8
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
2 p.m.: Grambling State v. B-CU
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.
Smith honored on senior night, Loyola gets Ruston in five
By Kyle Roberts
RUSTON, La. — Despite a furious comeback after trailing two sets, Ruston High (12-16) fell in five sets Thursday on senior night, where libero Camille Smith was honored pregame as the Lady Bearcats’ lone senior.
“The effort for us was definitely there,” Ruston High head coach Mandy Cauley said. “I think we if we had done a better job of minimizing some careless errors in sets one and two, the outcome would have been different tonight. And that’s on us. We’ve got to stay disciplined and competitive. And but once we were pushed, I thought we fought back and we were resilient. It was just a little bit too late.
“The fight, after being down 11-3 in set five, was a small victory. They had set some individual goals for themselves and some of them accomplished those things tonight. I’m still proud of the girls and hopefully we can build on these things, moving towards this weekend and into playoffs.”
Loyola took the first set of the day after rallying from being down as many as four points in the set to win 25-22. Sophomore Bridget Crittenden finished with four kills in the first and added an ace, as well. Junior Ava Crowe added three kills and a block.
The Flyers took set two in extra points 26-24 despite a valiant Ruston effort through the middle of the stanza to outscore Loyola 12-6 and get an 18-18 tie. A big serve by Smith set up the Lady Bearcats to take a 19-18 lead, but Loyola would pull away at the end for the set win. Crowe finished the set with three kills while Baylor Cauley added two.
Ruston flipped the script in set three after trailing 15-10 to win 25-21. Junior Jane Ramsey finished with five kills in the set alone, while Crittenden got four. Cauley tacked on a pair of kills near the end to help the Lady Bearcats get the set.
Ramsey opened up set four with a block and then a kill to put Ruston up 2-1. After Loyola ended up getting ahead 19-16 later on, Ruston put together a 9-2 run to finish the set with a 25-21 win.
And after trailing 11-3 in the final set, Ruston rallied to cut it to 14-13 before Loyola got the final kill to win the match.
Cauley finished the night with 14 kills, while Crittenden finished with 11.
“(Both of them) have been kind of carrying the heavy load of our offense all season long,” Cauley said. “We can count on them, and I’m proud of them. Those two, they do carry a load because they have to set and play defense and swing and score for us. So there is a lot of pressure on both of them, and I thought they handled that very well.”
Cauley also praised Smith, her lone senior on this year’s team.
“Not everybody knows, but she’s been playing pretty much in pain all season,” Cauley said. “And so for her to get out here and fight as hard as she did, I’m so proud of her. She came in with some clutch serves tonight, as well. She’s just grown so much over the past four years, even her role throughout the program has changed — she’s done a great job for the Bearcats.”
Ruston will have one last regular season trip to Dunham for a final tournament before official playoff pairings are released on Monday of next week.
Dogs, Kats tangle on a Halloween Night Homecoming at The Joe
JOURNAL SPORTS
Louisiana Tech returns to the field tonight for a Halloween Homecoming matchup against Sam Houston State at Origin Bank Field at Joe Aillet Stadium.
Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. and the game can be seen on CBS Sports Network.
The Bulldogs will unveil black uniforms and helmets for the first time in program history, while the Bearkats will don their orange uniforms: a perfect combination for a Halloween match-up.
It will also mark Tech’s 100th Homecoming.
“The 100th Homecoming,” said Sonny Cumbie. “It’s an exciting week. We are really excited about the game. It’s a great opportunity for us to get back out on the field and play.”
Tech (4-3, 2-2 CUSA) hopes to get back into the win column against Sam Houston (0-7, 0-4) in an all-time series that is tied at 2-2-1. The Bearkats won last year’s meeting in Huntsville.
Head coach Sonny Cumbie will look to pick up his sixth win as LA Tech’s coach against a team from Texas. He carries a 5-7 record, with wins over UTEP (four) and SFA.
The Bulldogs are 71-26-2 on homecoming, although LA Tech has dropped its last four homecoming games. LA Tech’s last homecoming win came in 2020 with a 21-17 victory over UTEP.
Tech will also hope to bounce back from a heart-breaking overtime loss to WKU 28-27 in its last outing and try to snap a two-game losing skid.
“What did we learn from that loss,” said Cumbie. “How do we get better and better, and stronger and stronger as a football team.”
Blake Baker threw for a career-high 340 yards in the loss, while Marlion Jackson posted career highs with six receptions for 103 yards. Tech’s defense recorded its second game this season with double-digit tackles for loss (10), and Kameron Carter recorded the team’s 13th interception of the year.
Sam Houston enters the contest still looking for its first win of the season.
“This is a Sam Houston team that is getting better,” said Cumbie. “If you look at their last three games they have gotten better. You can see the progression.”
After nine weeks, LA Tech became one of six teams nationally to score touchdowns by fumble return, interception return, and on special teams. The Bulldogs joined Virginia, South Florida, Kansas State, San Diego State and South Carolina after Devin Gandy returned a kickoff for a touchdown against WKU.
LA Tech hosts Aggies in weekend volleyball action
Courtesy of LA Tech Athletic Communications
After back-to-back weekends on the road, Louisiana Tech is at home to face New Mexico State in a pair of Conference USA matchups starting today at 2 p.m. at the Thomas Assembly Center.
Saturday’s match will start at 1 p.m. and be held at Scotty Robertson Memorial Gym. Friday’s match can be seen on ESPN+ while Saturday’s match will not be aired.
Today will be Senior Day as the team will honor six Bulldogs – Jailen Hurley, Carla Esquer, Giulia Bonifacio, Grace Luevanos, Charlize Williams, and Kaeden Robinson.
New Mexico State holds a 22-1 series advantage over LA Tech.
LA Tech (7-17, 0-10)was unable to get its first conference win of the season this past weekend, falling in straight sets to Missouri State in both matchups. It marked the first ever meetings between the two programs.
Hurley continues to pace LA Tech offensively with a team-high 185 kills and a .230 hitting percentage. The senior is 15 kills away from matching her single season best of 200 which she did last season. If accomplished, she would become the first Bulldog since Kaitlyn Adams and Madeline Davis to record 200+ kills in back-to-back season (both did it in 2018-19).
New Mexico State (13-10, 6-4) snapped a four-match losing streak this past weekend, sweeping both contests against Middle Tennessee by a score of 3-1 at home.
Maggie Lightheart was named CUSA Offensive Player of the Week for her efforts, tallying 42 kills in eight sets for an average of 5.25 per frame while boasting a .313 hitting percentage. She anchors the team with 264 kills this season followed by Tess Fuqua who has 207 to her credit.
Admission is free to all Tech Volleyball matches.
COLUMN: The absurdity of war
By Brad Dison
When Melvin James Kiminsky was entering his senior year in high school in 1944, he took the Army Specialized Training Reserve Program test, an assessment to determine intelligence and comprehension. Melvin did so well on the aptitude test that Army recruiters sent him to Virginia Military Institute to study electrical engineering. Melvin, who had spent his whole life in New York City, was surrounded by “mountain ranges, red clay, a lot of horses, and statues of Stonewall Jackson and Robert E. Lee.” At VMI, he was taught to ride a horse, wield a saber, do close-order drill, and electrical engineering. Then, he was transferred to Fort Sill, Oklahoma to work on a field artillery team whose main weapon was a 105mm cannon. The Army failed to provide hearing protection, so Melvin began tearing the filters off of Camel cigarettes and sticking those in his ears. He quipped, “my ears are still yellow to this day.”
In January 1945, Melvin was among hundreds of soldiers who were sent to Europe. He ended up on the front line between Sarreguemines, France, and Saarbrucken, Germany. Because he was classified as an engineer—his superiors overlooked the fact that he was an electrical engineer and not a combat engineer—they gave him a bayonet and told him to probe for mines. Melvin thought the order was absurd, but he was instructed to insert his bayonet into the ground at a shallow angle to avoid pressing the detonator which was normally triggered by pressure from directly above. After a while, Melvin joined a team with the 1104th combat engineers who had to erect a Bailey bridge, a portable truss bridge, over a river which led into enemy territory defended by Nazis. The Bailey bridge was so light that they could swing it out over the river, but strong enough to support the weight of a crossing tank. Melvin was one of the first men who had to cross the bridge because he had to secure it to the other side. The ever-watchful Germans, angry that an American soldier would soon be coming onto their side of the river, shouted warnings in German over a loudspeaker. Melvin grabbed a bullhorn and responded to the German soldiers but not by yelling threats. He sang a full rendition of the popular upbeat Broadway showtune “Toot, Toot, Tootsie (Goo’ Bye!)”
When he finished singing, he lowered the bullhorn. The men in his company stared at him in complete and confused silence. For a few moments, the German soldiers were also silent. Then, a few of the enemy soldiers began clapping and cheering. Neither the American soldiers nor the German soldiers understood the absurdity that had just occurred. Melvin understood the absurdity of the war and satirized it directly to soldiers on both sides of the conflict. For the past 80 years, Melvin Kiminsky has been entertaining the world in much the same way, with his own brand of absurd comedy. He is one of only 27 entertainers who have won an Emmy, a Grammy, an Oscar, and a Tony award for his work on films such as “The Producers,” “Blazing Saddles,” “Young Frankenstein,” “Spaceballs,” and “Robin Hood: Men in Tights.” At 99 years old, he is currently producing and acting in “Spaceballs 2.” Kaminsky may not be a name you recognize. You see, early in his career, to eliminate his being confused with noted trumpet player Max Kaminsky, Melvin James Kaminsky began performing under the stage name Mel Brooks.
Source: “Mel Brooks on Fighting the Germans in World War II—Rare Interview!” TheTVTimeMachine, YouTube, March 3, 2024, https://youtu.be/xmJq2vvuPL4?
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.
Notice of death — Oct. 30, 2025
Dr. Lynn Earl Hawkins
August 17, 1938 – October 22, 2025
Visitation: Saturday, November 1, 2025, 1:00PM – 2:00PM, Temple Baptist Church Sanctuary, 1515 S. Service Road West, Ruston
Service: Saturday, November 1, 2025, 2:00PM, Temple Baptist Church Sanctuary, 1515 S. Service Road West, Ruston
Final resting place: Monday, October 27, 2025, 11:00AM, Kilpatrick’s Memorial Gardens, 1270 Highway 544, Ruston
AE Phillips eighth graders learn lifesaving first aid skills
by Hanna Singh
Eighth grade students gained lifesaving skills in hands-on first aid training course provided at A.E. Phillips Lab School.
Instructed by Louisiana Tech Assistant Director of Recreation, Payton Carnahan, the course took place over three class sessions where students earned their CPR and AED certifications.
The first aid training offered students the opportunity to gain valuable skills on how to respond in an emergency situation, while allowing them to earn 2 certifications in their health class. The courses included training on how to perform CPR and how to use an AED device.
The school began providing a health class to give students the opportunity to earn a high school credit. A course in which they have featured several guest speakers on health-related subjects. One of the class units focuses on human body systems, which gave faculty the idea to have the students trained in first aid certifications.
A.E. Phillips physical education teacher, Casey Blalock, explained the importance of this opportunity and what it could offer for the students.
“We asked Payton Carnahan, one of our school parents, who is certified in training for CPR and AED, to come and train our students,” Blalock said. “All of our 8th graders our now certified through the American Red Cross course. This is a life skill that we feel would be beneficial if they are ever in a situation in which these skills would be needed.”
Students worked with adult and baby sized CPR manakins to learn how to perform the lifesaving method on both body types. They were also given instructions on how to utilize a defibrillator to restore normal heart rhythm in a person. A.E. Phillips physical education teacher, Suzanne Tyler, highlighted the specific parts of the training that students underwent.
“They gained practical skills like how to perform chest compressions, how to use an AED device and how to react calmly and effectively in critical situations,” Tyler said. “This training not only boosts their confidence but also empowers them to potentially save lives both at school and in their communities.”
Classes like these give students knowledge, not only to prepare them to enter high school, but also provide them with valuable skills that can be used in the real world. A.E. Phillips strives to give students opportunities to grow in their abilities, preparing them for real-life situations. The students responded well to the course, with every student in the class receiving both of their certifications.
Carnahan described the process of working with the students and how they responded to her teaching.
“I have a passion for teaching CPR. It truly saves lives, and it was and honor to work with the 8th graders at AEP,” Carnahan said. “They were attentive, asked great questions and worked hard to learn the skills. I have been an instructor with American Red Cross for 12 years, and sharing this knowledge with others is so rewarding.”
With their new skills, A.E. Phillips 8th graders can move forward confidently, knowing that in the event of an emergency, they are well prepared to assess the situation. These skills and certifications could potentially allow these students to one day save a life.
Ruston’s Hebert to rep US internationally in Grappling World Championships
By Kyle Roberts
LOUTRAKI, Greece — Ruston native and eighth grader Owen Hebert is headed overseas for the first time in his life today as he will be one of over a dozen athletes from the United States representing the red, white and blue at the 2025 U15, U17, U20 and Veteran Grappling World Championships Nov. 1 – 4.
“It means a lot,” Hebert said of competing for the United States. “It’s an honor to represent this country, and it’s such a blessing.”
Hebert has been competing in jiu jitsu for nearly four years now, making a name for himself locally training under Josh and Makayla Lee at Triad Martial Arts Academy of Ruston — and now nationally as he’ll be the only competitor from the state of Louisiana.
“I really like that it takes grit and determination,” Hebert said. “There’s just something truly physical about jiu jitsu that I just love.”
This Saturday, Hebert will competing in the No-Gi Division and then will compete in the Gi Division on Sunday. He’ll compete in the 47 kg division competing against others in his age group from countries all over the world, including Russia, Kazakhstan, Greece and India.
This year, the American Grappling Federation teamed up with USA Grappling to create multiple qualifiers all over the nation. Hebert qualified by winning in a Dallas qualifer back in June.
Hebert, too, was part of the recent Ruston Junior High eighth grade squad that went undefeated at 8-0.
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.
Cedar Creek Preview: Lady Cougars enter season with target on their back
By Malcolm Butler
Cedar Creek head coach Katie Hall has been a part of plenty of winning teams during her basketball career.
Whether as a player at Byrd High School and Louisiana Tech University or a coach at Louisiana Tech and now Cedar Creek School, Hall has seen her share of success.
And it’s because of that experience that Hall knows the challenges facing the 2025-26 Lady Cougars following a historic season that saw the program win the District 1-1A title, record a 29-4 mark, and advance to the Select School Division IV championship contest.
Last year, the Lady Cougars snuck up on people.
But after returning four starters and five of their top six scorers from a year ago, this year’s squad will have a target on its back.
“People are looking out for us this year,” said senior guard Caroline James, who averaged 5.1 points and shot a team-high 71 percent from the free throw line. “We are playing a lot of really good teams. For us it’s understanding that we aren’t going to sneak up on people this year.
“We probably won’t win every game. It’s going to be harder with that pressure to get back (to the state title game), but we all know the feeling of getting there. So, no matter how hard it gets, we are ready to take on the challenges.”
James is one of four seniors on this year’s squad, joining Britton Bennett, Taylor Martinez, and Avery Ryan. It’s an experienced, veteran group that played a huge role in last year’s memorable run that ended with a 67-57 loss to Southern Lab in the state title game inside Southeastern Louisiana’s University Center.
The sting of being that close to winning the program’s first ever LHSAA state title but coming up short is fuel for the fire, according to the players.
“It definitely hurt last year because we were so close,” said Ryan, who averaged 12.5 points and 9.4 rebounds per game on her way to earning the Most Outstanding Player Award on the all-Lincoln Parish Journal team. “I think that experience and us knowing how close we were last year, I think it gives us a lot of hope and motivation. It makes us hungrier.”
“We obviously want to get back (to the state title game),” said James. “Losing last year really motivated us. It’s a good reminder when we have a hard practice that we have a big goal. It’s our motivation to get back and win this time.”
With a non-district schedule that includes plenty of match-ups against higher classification programs, the Lady Cougars will be battled-tested by the time the postseason rolls around.
Some of those games include tournaments hosted by West Monroe, St. Thomas More, and Natchitoches Central as well as single games against Neville, Northwood, Minden, West Ouachita and Mangham.
“I think this team is going to have to learn to deal with adversity,” said Hall. “I think our schedule is stronger and will really test us. We may take some punches early in the season. How do we handle that?
“We experienced adversity last year. We were tested at times. And I think they have a lot of confidence in themselves because of what they did last year. We have to stay united and keep the same confidence we had in the second half of last season.”
“Just showing up is not enough. We have to be able to work hard in practice and challenge each other on a daily basis. I think this group gets it. They know what it takes.”
Martinez (7.0 ppg, 4.2 apg), who will sign next week to play at Bryan University following her prep career, and juniors Mary Grace Hawkins (8.2 ppg) and Alivia Lee (9.1 ppg, 5.3 rpg) will join Ryan and James to provide a tough starting five for the Lady Cougars.
The biggest question is depth for the Lady Cougars after graduating seniors Mallory Smith and Zoey Venters.
“We need to see who will step up and be a consistent leader for us,” said Hall. “Zoey was really that leader for us last year. Who will stay positive and lead, especially when it gets hard. And it will. As a coach, that’s what I’m interested in seeing.
“We have some role players from last year that need to be a bigger role than what they were last year. It will be hard for them early on in the year because they just haven’t had the reps. They will have to get better as the season progresses. They will get thrown into the pool and figure out how to swim because our schedule isn’t easy. But I have faith in our group.”
James and Ryan do too.
“We are like a family,” said James. “We fight like sisters, and we fight together on the court. We have our moments, but when it comes down to it, we are all friends. We are teammates. We are friends. We are sisters. We are going to play hard together, and we are going to have fun doing it.”
“We just need to play our game,” said Ryan. “We have proven we can make it (to the title game). We don’t need to let our ego get too high.”
Cedar Creek will host the Brickhouse Bash on Nov. 11 and will open their season Nov. 18 at Northwood.
Public invited to 10-part lecture series at the Episcopal Church of the Redeemer
The public is invited to join the Episcopal Church of the Redeemer in Ruston for a 10-part lecture series entitled “The Basics: What We Believe” that explores the historical origins and evolution of the Christian faith, examines foundational core beliefs, the profound influence of the life and lessons of Jesus, and Paul’s role in the formation of early churches.
Rev. Frank W. Hughes, Ph.D., Redeemer priest in residence, who is a member of the Society of Biblical Literature and an expert on the letters of Paul, will lead the series. All are welcome to attend.
Sessions will be held on Sunday mornings, November 9, 2025 — February 8, 2026, from 9:15—10:05 a.m., in Haskell Hall at the Church of the Redeemer. Coffee, tea, and doughnuts will be provided.
The Episcopal Church of the Redeemer is located at 504 Tech Drive in Ruston. For more information call 318-255-3925 or go to http://www.rustonredeemer.org.
November 9 What Are the Basics of the Christian Faith?
November 16 Creation by God
November 30 God’s Interaction with Ancient Israel
December 7 “All the Children of the World”
December 14 Right and Wrong: Making Moral Decisions
January 11 Jesus of Nazareth and his Teachings
January 18 Paul’s Letters and Formation of Early Churches
January 25 What Baptism Is
February 1 The Creeds
February 8 Conclusions
This is an advertorial
Car burglaries continue in Ruston
The Ruston Police Department continues to battle car burglaries with another neighborhood hit Monday night.
In a statement released Tuesday, RPD said, “We are currently investigating a series of vehicle burglaries that occurred overnight in the areas of Kentucky, Lisa, Wedgewood, Pennington, Arcadia, and Dauphine.”
According to the statement a suspect was captured on video about 2:00 a.m. Tuesday morning. The suspect was walking in the West Kentucky Avenue area.
“We are asking residents in these neighborhoods to review any home or business surveillance footage that may assist in the investigation,” RPD said.
Despite arresting a suspected car burglar at the scene on Paul Avenue near Barnett Springs and U.S. 80 this weekend, investigators have long suspected a number of men involved in the occasional rash of thieves.
RPD has repeatedly noted that the vehicles being entered are always unlocked. The thieves are searching for cash, guns, electronics, and other high-value items.
RPD asks if you have video or any information related to these incidents to please contact them at 318-255-4141. “Your assistance could be vital in helping us identify the individual responsible and prevent future crimes,” RPD stated.
Police strongly recommend removing all valuables from vehicles, locking car doors, and immediately reporting any suspicious activity.
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.
COLUMN: It was just a drink of water
I can remember playing football on school teams as a teenager. There were some practices where I just couldn’t wait to get some water. In Jr. high school, it was just a water hose connected to a pump on the practice field. In high school, it was off-brand Gatorade in a cup with ice!
I had the same feeling running a half-marathon several years ago. There were some very nice people stationed along the way with cups of water. I couldn’t wait to get to one of those stations for just a sip or two of water during that long run.
I was recently reading in the book of John about Jesus being tired and thirsty from a long walk. He stopped at a well and asked a woman for a drink. His traveling companions had gone into the city to purchase some take-out.
I can relate to that feeling of thirst, wanting a drink, and just needing access to some water.
The interesting thing here is that Jesus broke down racial, gender, and religious barriers. He was a Jew, and this woman was a Samaritan. Faithful practicing Jews had nothing to do with Samaritans. A Jewish man would never ask a Samaritan woman for a drink of water from her cup.
The ensuing discussion had such an impact on the woman that she brought many people from the nearby town to meet Jesus. The account reveals that many lives were changed because of this seemingly chance encounter over a simple drink of water.
A simple drink of water can be the spark for a meaningful conversation.
· A simple drink of water could be a gesture to break down a barrier.
· A simple drink of water can be the connection to display acceptance and value.
· A simple drink of water could be the bridge to an entirely different future.
As I look around at our world today, I see a lot of people that are tired and thirsty. Some have been walking a long road of battling illness. Others have spent years laboring over relationship issues with loved ones. There are financial concerns, addiction issues, job uncertainties, and the ever-present disappointments in life.
Our communities are full of tired and thirsty people.
We are a divided nation in many respects. Our congressional leaders can’t figure out a way to get our military personnel, air-traffic controllers, and other essential personnel paid. We have mis-managed finances so poorly as a nation that we can’t seem to figure out how to do it correctly anymore.
Our nation is full of tired and thirsty people seeking resolutions so we can move forward.
Sometimes the answers aren’t complex solutions but rather can be found in the simple. Sometimes, a simple drink of water can be the start of something special.
As you go your way this week, why don’t you grab a few bottles of water and see where you can give those away. You may just find yourself being the spark to something meaningful!
We also may need to send some bottles of water to Washington DC. It might help!
Doug provides professional speaking and coaching services to organizations and individuals. Whether you are looking for a speaker for your next event or a leadership coach to develop people and build a team culture, feel free to reach out to Doug at doug.strickel@gmail.com and learn more about PLUS.
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 man arrested on DWI on THC
A Ruston man seen by police driving slowly but swerving off the roadway multiple times was arrested for his second DWI offense last week in Ruston.
Reginald McClaine, 37, was stopped on October 25, and several indicators of impairment were noticed. McClaine admitted to drinking about five shots of alcohol prior to driving. He performed poorly on field sobriety tests and was arrested.
A breath test at the Lincoln Parish Detention Center showed no alcohol in McClaine’s system. At that time, he admitted to smoking THC, the intoxicating ingredient of marijuana, just prior to driving.
McClaine was booked for second offense DWI and careless operation of a vehicle after records showed he had a previous DWI conviction.
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.
JET Taskforce results in 22 criminal arrests
Courtesy of Louisiana State Police
Louisiana State Police Troop F and the Louisiana State Police Criminal Investigations Division Monroe Field Office, in collaboration with the Morehouse and West Carroll Parish Sheriff’s Offices, recently conducted an enforcement operation under the Joint Enforcement Taskforce initiative.
This initiative is designed to enhance community safety through proactive policing strategies that focus on reducing violent crime, disrupting drug trafficking, and addressing the illegal possession of firearms.
As a result of focused enforcement efforts, troopers provided 75 public assists and conducted 121 traffic stops, resulting in the following enforcement actions and seizures:
• 87 warnings issued
• 42 traffic citations issued
• 22 criminal arrests
• 7 fugitive warrant arrests
• 1 recovery of a runaway juvenile
• 2 firearm seizures
• Seizure of approximately 119.1 grams of marijuana
• Seizure of approximately .6 grams of synthetic marijuana
• Seizure of approximately 5.3 grams of methamphetamine
• Seizure of approximately 1.6 grams of crack cocaine
Louisiana State Police remains committed to safeguarding communities across the state by working closely with local law enforcement partners to identify and address criminal activity. Public cooperation is a vital component in maintaining safe communities.
Citizens can report criminal or suspicious activity through the Louisiana State Police online reporting system. Anonymous reports may be submitted to the appropriate investigators by visiting www.lsp.org and clicking the “Report Suspicious or Criminal Activity” link.
Week 10 of the pick’em contest continues today!
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.
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.
Thursday, Oct. 30
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)
6 p.m.: LA Tech Homecoming Parade
6:30-8 p.m.: LA Tech Homecoming pep rally and fireworks (Thomas Assembly Center)
7-10 p.m.: Tech R Treat (Argent Pavilion, LA Tech campus)
Friday, Oct. 31
Halloween
2 p.m.: LA Tech volleyball
7 p.m.: LA Tech v. Sam Houston (Homecoming)
7 p.m.: Lincoln Prep football
Saturday, Nov. 1
9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Farmers Market
10 a.m.: Bingo at Dubach Community Center (106 Smith St., Dubach)
1 p.m.: LA Tech volleyball
2 p.m.: Grambling State v. Alabama A&M
Sunday, Nov. 2
Daylight Saving Time
Monday, Nov. 3
10:30 a.m.: Party Fowl ribbon cutting (102 N. Homer St.)
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)
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, Nov. 4
9:30 p.m.: Ribbon cutting celebrating Lowder Baking Company (106 W. Park Ave.)
4 p.m.: GSU volleyball
6 p.m.: Lincoln Parish School Board meeting (410 S. Farmerville St.)
Wednesday, Nov. 5
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, Nov. 6
11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Kiwanis Club lunch and program (Trinity Methodist Church fellowship hall)
4:30-5:30 p.m.: Free meal sponsored by the Presbyterian Church and 5 Loaves 2 Fish Ministry (Ruston Housing Authority Community Room, 901 MLK Dr.) All welcome to come.
6 p.m.: Southern A’Chord Chorus rehearsal (Presbyterian Church fellowship hall, 212 N. Bonner St.; open to all women singers)
Friday, Nov. 7
7 p.m.: Ruston High Football
Saturday, Nov. 8
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
2 p.m.: Grambling State v. B-CU
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 Burford earns CUSA Academic Award
Courtesy of LA Tech Athletic Communications
Mary Helen Burford was named to Conference USA’s 2025 All-Academic team, per the league office’s release Wednesday morning.
The sophomore defender was one of three Bulldogs to start in all 18 matches this season, posting the second-most minutes for LA Tech with a career-high 1,557 minutes. It was her second-straight season playing at least 1,000 minutes with full time played in 13 matches.
“Mary Helen exemplifies what a student-athlete is all about,” head coach Steve Voltz said about Burford. “She has shown dedication on the field and in the classroom while being a leader on her team. I couldn’t be any happier for her to receive this this recognition.”
The Shreveport native has been a crucial piece for the Bulldogs’ back line, providing consistent defensive play as a center back and helping lead Tech to allowing just six goals in their eight CUSA contests.
Burford has also been a class act in the classroom, double majoring in biology and psychology with biology serving as her primary focus and carrying a 4.0 GPA. She is the first Bulldog to be named to the All-Academic team since Kalli Matlock and Josie Studer received the honors in 2023.
Louisiana Tech has now seen at least one student-athlete receive this recognition in 11 of the previous 13 seasons since joining Conference USA.
Burford and the Bulldogs look ahead to opening tournament play on Sunday, November 2 when they face the host Liberty Flames at 10 a.m. CT. The match will be streamed on ESPN+.
Notice of death — Oct. 29, 2025
Mona Jiles Afeman
November 10, 1946 – October 28, 2025
Services pending
Dr. Lynn Earl Hawkins
August 17, 1938 – October 22, 2025
Visitation: Saturday, November 1, 2025, 1:00PM – 2:00PM, Temple Baptist Church Sanctuary, 1515 S. Service Road West, Ruston
Service: Saturday, November 1, 2025, 2:00PM, Temple Baptist Church Sanctuary, 1515 S. Service Road West, Ruston
Final resting place: Monday, October 27, 2025, 11:00AM, Kilpatrick’s Memorial Gardens, 1270 Highway 544, Ruston