Shortly before 8:00 a.m. Wednesday morning, Deputy Tim Jordan, a four-year veteran of the Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office, was struck by a train just off La. Highway 3 (Benton Road) near the Kingston Road intersection while working a traffic assignment.

He was transported to Ochsner LSU Hospital where he later died from his injuries.

The Louisiana State Police are investigating the crash. Preliminary information indicates Deputy Jordan was monitoring morning traffic and may have misjudged the distance from his parked vehicle to the train track.

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Bossier Parish Sheriff Julian Whittington said, “This is an extremely difficult day for the Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office, Deputy Jordan’s family, and his fellow deputies. Deputy Jordan was a dedicated public servant who took pride in protecting the citizens of Bossier Parish, and his loss is deeply felt throughout our agency and community.”

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

 

By T. Scott Boatright

 

Ten different Panthers put points on the scoreboard Thursday night as Lincoln Prep rolled past Jonesboro-Hodge 72-19 in the District 1-1A opener for both teams.

Eighth-grader Isaiah Johnson entered the game for the Panthers significantly earlier than usual after Jarabi Levingston was hit with two quick fouls as Lincoln Prep coach Antonio Hudson called a time out to pull him and senior forward Zion Hicks out of the contest for a few minutes.

“Jabari got into early foul trouble but Isaiah (Johnson) came off the bench and ended up playing a big role for us,” Hudson said. “Jabari had two fouls and I can’t remember exactly what it was that Zion had done, but I just wanted to talk to both of them real quick. It wasn’t that Zion had done anything wrong, I just wanted to point something out and get him thinking.”

“So, when Jabari got those two early fouls, I called the timeout. Then after the timeout, (Jonesboro Hodge) Coach (Fred Hearn) came out trapping us, which we didn’t expect because we hadn’t seen them do. It kind of caught us off guard but we adjusted. My deal is wanting this team to grow and learn in every game we play, and I think we did that tonight.”

Lincoln Prep led 21-6 by the end of the first quarter and led 53-10 at halftime with a running clock beginning with 2:43 left in the second stanza.

“Once the score got to what it was, I told the team at halftime that we had done what we were supposed to do but now we needed to take the second half as an opportunity for us to get better,” Hudson said. “So we did some different defensive coverages in the third quarter just to give them some different looks. That’s something we’ve got to work on.

Hudson said getting scoring from his entire team was big at this point in the season.

“The thing is, Coach Lyons (late Grambling Lab legend Michael Lyons, who was Hudson’s high school coach), used to always talk about Murphy’s Law,” Hudson said. “You’ve got to be prepared for whatever might happen. So what I told them was that if something happened and the first five starters couldn’t play, we have to be able to trust the next guys coming in to be able to handle the load. 

“That’s why I tell them everybody’s important on the team, not just the guys who get written about in the news and that people see every day. It’s everybody, from the guy who’s not dressing but working hard on the scout team in practice, to the starters. So it was good for everybody to get the opportunity to play. We’ve had a tough schedule with close games where we haven’t been able to do that, so it was good for it to happen like that tonight.”

Trey Spann played a big role in Lincoln Prep’s first-half surge, scoring 12 of his game high 17 by halftime.

Spann added three rebounds, three steals and two assists to his total stats.

“Trey has played really well the last couple of games,” Hudson said. “What he’s learning to understand is that people aren’t just going to stand there and let him shoot anymore. Everybody in the state of Louisiana that has played against Lincoln Prep or that will play Lincoln Prep knows that he can shoot the basketball. So, with that said, he has to find different ways to impact the game and that’s what he’s been doing. I think he’s averaging close to a double-double with his rebounding, too. 

“Once Trey gets past the mental aspect, because he’s always so hard on himself, he’s a helluva player. I trust him. I have confidence in him even though as a coach, I’m not always going to be happy, there are times I have to get on players for a little bit, at the end of the day I still trust them and I trust the process with it.”

Johnson double-doubled with 10 points and 12 steals for the Panthers while adding five assists, four rebounds and a blocked shot while Levingston added 10 points, three assists, two rebounds and a steal.

The Panthers also go eight points, three rounds, three assists and two steals from Josiah Spann, six points, six rebounds and a steal from Josh Kelly, four points from Karmelo Goins, two points and a rebound from Devin Shine, two points, two boards and a steal from Aiden Ferguson and two points and three rebounds from Nicholas Nelson.

Next scheduled for the Panthers, now 2-14 overall and 0-2 in District 1-1A, will be a 6 p.m. home game on Tuesday against Haynesville, weather permitting.

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By T. Scott Boatright

 

For Lincoln Prep girls basketball coach LaKeia Williams-Brown, the little things are still wins for her team at this point of the season.

So yes, Williams-Brown’s Lady Panthers fell at home Thursday night to Jonesboro-Hodge 51-20 inside the LPS Gym.

And yes, the majority of her team, other than point guard Kayla Ferguson, remains significantly inexperienced and still learning the basics of the game.

But they are making progress, and Williams-Brown counts that as a win at this point. 

“It’s a challenge,” Williams-Brown said. “A lot of challenges. But we’re weathering the storm. But it’s been a hard road for them. I’ve had a lot of them who have gotten sick for a while and missed significant time. 

“I haven’t had my full team all out on the court together yet this season. Somebody’s always out. But I’m proud of my kids, because they keep battling and playing hard, and they keep getting better. That’s all I can ask at this point.”

Ferguson hit Lincoln Prep’s lone first-quarter basket and had scored nine of her team’s 11 points by halftime as the Lady Tigers built a 33-11 advantage by intermission.

With a running clock beginning in the third quarter, the second half was a quick affair with Jonesboro Hodge leading 48-17 heading into the final stanza.

Ferguson’s 3-pointer at the 3:45 mark of the third quarter capped off her scoring on the night as she cut the Lady Tigers’ lead to 46-15 at that point.

Out of necessity, Ferguson takes the vast majority of Lincoln Prep’s shot attempts, but Williams-Brown said her Lady Panthers don’t really have any other choice with where her team stands right now.

“She has to take over because of her experience,” Williams-Brown said. “She has to be a leader. So she’s just doing what she’s supposed to do out there.”

So, it was good that Williams-Brown saw Lady Panther forward Hannah Labron grab an offensive rebound and launch the ball upward from down under the goal for Lincoln Prep’s final basket of the third quarter.

Just as it was good for Williams-Brown to see Lady Panther Za’Kya  Wimberly fire a 3-point shot through the nets for Lincoln Prep’s only basket of the final stanza.

“That was just them growing up a little more,” Williams Brown said. “From where we were when the season started to where we are now, I can say that we have truly progressed. We have progressed as a team and we have progressed in learning and knowing and playing with each other.

“They’re confidence level has gone up tremendously since the season started and it shows out on the court. They still have a long, long way to go, but there’s no doubt they’re making progress and getting better.”

Erynn Chatman added a basket for Lincoln Prep in the second quarter to account for the Lady Panthers’ other points.

Next up scheduled for the Lady Panthers, now 2-14 overall and 0-2 in District 1-1A, will be a 6 p.m. home game on Tuesday against Haynesville, weather permitting.

 

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Nothing has shaken the bass fishing world more than forward-facing sonar (FFS). While I’ve given my perspective on this technology and how it’s affected the bass tournament world, I’m now wondering what’s next? Understand, this is my perspective, as I have no inside knowledge from anyone. 

One thing that we know for sure, the big three fishing electronic companies (Garmin, Humminbird and Lowrance) are not going to stop building a better mouse trap. Their engineers are paid to be innovative and are aways looking to make improvements and advancements with regards to their technology. 

Today’s sonar units are crazy good! You can literally see the swimming action of the tail on a bass. No fish is safe anymore and no fish can hide from today’s electronics. 

One thing that is probably coming next will be the ability to identify the fish you’re seeing on the screen without guessing. Is that a bass, crappie or a carp? Knowledgeable anglers can do that today if they’re really good with their electronics and if they have studied and understand fish behavior. 

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But I think these companies are going to figure out a way to tell you exactly what species of fish you are seeing on your screen. They are going to continue to simplify the visual aspect of what you’re seeing on the screen. 

Next, get ready for live video! This already exists with a company called Aqua-Vu. (It’s just not allowed in tournaments.) These have been out for a few years and to let everyone in on a little secret: several bass touring pros already use this unit for scouting, but don’t want the public to know.

Look for new camera units from one of the big three electronic companies, probably in association with “Go Pro Cameras,” to be the first to introduce this new way of seeing fish on our screens. 

Many people are asking the question, “Where does all this stop?” Here’s the bottom line. There’s no stopping technological advancement. It won’t stop until people quit paying the prices they are asking for all these electronic advancements. If anglers are willing to pay, companies will continue to build bigger and better units.

Here’s the problem; just follow the money! All these electronic companies are pumping thousands of dollars into these professional bass fishing organizations as sponsors, forcing B.A.S.S. and Major League Fishing (MLF) to allow pro anglers to use forward-facing sonar. 

I think we are getting to the point where these organizations are going to have to decide what’s more important — sponsorship support or the integrity of the sport? They also need to ask themselves if this new technology is good for the sport in the long run on the professional level. 

You can say what you want, but forward-facing sonar (FFS) in bass tournaments is destroying the sport. I’m personally not against FFS for the everyday angler. I think it’s great tool for fun fishing and catching crappie. 

I’m even OK with it for local bass tournaments on the amateur level. But when it comes to professional anglers using it on pro tournament trails, I am not a fan and it should be disallowed.

This is the same as Major League Baseball allowing the use of aluminum bats. It’s just not good for the sport of baseball! Hopefully the pro tours will do the right thing and eliminate FFS completely. 

The biggest complaints about FFS come from the older generation of anglers, not the young guns on the rise. The young kids today have been raised with FFS from day one and really understand how to use it, giving them a huge advantage over the older anglers. 

This could all play out another way. Pro tours may just wait out this issue with FFS and let this older group of anglers walk away or retire because five years from now, FFS won’t even be an issue at all. 

So, what’s the next big issue going to be? Probably something totally different, as the electronic companies continue to make improvements and advancements with their electronic units. Only time will tell! 

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

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Click the three bars in the bottom corner and select “With Radar” to see current precipitation and storms in your area.

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
1 p.m.: LA Tech men’s basketball

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Saturday, Jan. 24
10-11 a.m.: North Central Louisiana Master Gardeners present “Success with Fall and Summer Blooming Bulbs” Winter Seminar (Lincoln Parish Library Jack Beard Room)

Sunday, Jan. 25
10:30 p.m.: 150th church anniversary at new Rocky Valley Baptist Church (2155 Martin Luther King Dr., Grambling)

Monday, Jan. 26
11:30 a.m.: Lunch on Us (Presbyterian Church, 212 North Bonner Street., Ruston) — everyone welcome
6 p.m.: Toastmasters International meeting (Louisiana Center for the Blind, 101 South Trenton Street)
6-9 p.m.: Creative Meetups (Creatives at Work, 301 N. Trenton)
6:30 p.m.: GSU men’s basketball

Wednesday, Jan. 28
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, Jan. 29
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)
6:30 p.m.: Lady Techsters basketball

Friday, Jan. 30
6-9 p.m.: St. Jude Red Carnation Ball (Ruston Civic Center)

Saturday, Jan. 31
9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Farmers Market
2 p.m.: Lady Techsters basketball

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 looks to get back into the win column today as the Bulldogs play host to Kennesaw State inside the Thomas Assembly Center on Karl Malone Court.

Tipoff is set for 1 p.m. and the game can be seen on ESPN+.

The contest was origi­nally slated for Saturday but was moved up due to anticipated weather.

LA Tech trails in the all-time series versus Kennesaw State, 2-0. The two programs met for the first time last season when the Owls joining CUSA. KSU ended up winning both meetings – 78-76 in Kennesaw and 69-47 in Ruston.

Following a pair of double-digit comebacks, LA Tech (10-8, 3-4) was on the verge of doing it again, but its comeback effort fell short in a 64-60 loss to Jacksonville State this past Saturday. Down 16 with five minutes to go, the Bulldogs went on a 13-0 run to get to within one possession at 60-57 with 55 seconds to go, but the Gamecocks were able to prevent LA Tech from securing its first road win of the season by sinking four late free throws.

LA Tech is becoming accustomed to playing in close games. Four of the Bulldogs’ last five contests have been decided by five points or less (LA Tech is 2-2 in these games). One of the reasons LA Tech overcame a 12-point deficit to defeat Delaware, a 20-point deficit to beat Middle Tennessee, and nearly overcame a 16-point deficit at Jax State, has been the play of the last five minutes. The Bulldogs have outscored those three opponents 36-15 during that stretch.

Kennesaw State (12-7, 4-4) got off to a 9-2 start this sea­son but ran into its toughest stretch of losing four straight games — three on the road to open CUSA play and a 92-81 defeat versus 16th-ranked Alabama in a neutral site contest to close non-conference.

The Owls, picked second in the CUSA presea­son poll, were able to flip a switch and reel off four straight victories in league action over Missouri State, Jacksonville State, FIU, and WKU. That streak came to an end on Thursday as they nearly rallied from a 15-point defi­cit before falling 93-87 at Sam Houston in a high-scoring affair.

Offensively, KSU was riding the hot hand this season of Simeon Cottle. The CUSA Preseason Player of the Year was averaging 20.2 points per game but has missed the last two games due to suspension. Stepping up in his place has been RJ Johnson.

The sophomore guard who redshirted last season was averaging just 9.0 points through the first 14 games. Over the last four, he is averaging a whopping 26.3 points including back-to-back 30-point performances that helped earn him CUSA Player of the Week.

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Courtesy of LA Tech Athletic Communications

Conference USA released its 2026 softball preseason awards and poll Thursday afternoon, highlighted by Reagan Marchant and Allie Floyd being named the CUSA Preseason Player and Preseason Pitcher of the Year.

The duo was also named to the Preseason All-Conference team, with Floyd selected as a pitcher and Marchant as an infielder.

Floyd, a senior from Texas, is set for her fourth season in a Bulldog uniform after earning First Team All-CUSA honors in 2025. The right-hander finished the season 22-13 in the circle with a 2.78 ERA, appearing in 41 games with 28 starts. Floyd led CUSA in wins (22), strikeouts (182), innings pitched (204.0), appearances (41) and complete games (18). She recorded 13 conference wins to set a new LA Tech single-season record and became the first Bulldog pitcher to register 150+ strikeouts in a single season since 2011. Floyd also tallied 20 outings with five or more strikeouts.

She earned two top-25 wins on the year, including a complete-game, one-hit, one-run performance with nine strikeouts against No. 17 Auburn, along with a victory over No. 4 Oklahoma State at the Puerto Vallarta College Challenge after limiting the Cowgirls to one run on seven hits.

Marchant returns for her second season at Tech after starting 56 games a year ago. The South Carolina transfer broke the LA Tech single-season home run record in 2025 with 18. She batted .313 with 50 hits, 18 home runs, 11 doubles, one triple, 53 RBI and 33 runs scored. Marchant recorded 30 extra-base hits and was the only Bulldog to total more than 100 bases (117).

Marchant became just the third player in program history to register at least 50 hits and 50 RBI in a single season. The primary first baseman tallied 11 multi-hit games and 18 multi-RBI performances, including four three-RBI games and two three-hit outings. Defensively, she recorded a .992 fielding percentage with 342 putouts, eight assists and three errors.

The Bulldogs were picked to finish second in the CUSA with 121 total votes. Liberty is picked to finish first with 142 votes, followed by LA Tech (121), Jax State (110) and WKU (105).

Fifth-year head coach Josh Taylor will aim to guide the Bulldogs to their fifth consecutive 30+ win season after finishing 32-25 last season. The Bulldogs will open their season with four games in the Southern Miss Black and Gold Challenge in Hattiesburg, Miss., Feb. 6-8.

2026 CUSA Softball Preseason Poll

Rank	School (first-place votes)	Total
1.	Liberty (11)	142
2.	LA Tech	121
3.	Jax State	110
4.	WKU (1)	105
5.	Sam Houston	86
6.	Delaware	79
7.	FIU	72
8.	NM State	65
9.	MTSU	55
t10.	Missouri State	42
t10.	UTEP	42
12.	Kennesaw State	17

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Delma Eugene Wilhite (Will), age 85 was born on January 5, 1941 in Point Wilhite, LA to Lucile Acree and Francis Eugen Wilhite, lived on the banks of Lake D’ Arbonne in Farmerville, LA and he passed away Tuesday, January 20, 2026 at Princeton Place Nursing Home in Ruston, LA. Will was a man whose life was defined by loyalty, service, and a love for the simple things that mattered most.

Will believed in serving others. He proudly served 12 years in the Army National Guard, where he worked as a cook. In that role, he did more than prepare meals – he took care of people. Cooking was not just a duty for Will; it was an expression of gratitude, something he carried with him throughout his life. That same dedication followed him into his career. Will worked at Ludlow Corporation in Homer, LA beginning in 1974, showing the kind of commitment and reliability that is rare and deeply respected. He believed in showing up, doing the job right, and taking pride in an honest day’s work.

Outside of work, Will found joy in the things he loved most. Fishing was his go-to way to escape the real world and find peace. When not on the water, sitting at home watching old western movies with his Chihuahuas, was where you would find him most days. Those dogs were often as feisty and loyal as he was. Will also enjoyed fire trucks, guns, knives, and anything that reflected craftmanship, history, or purpose. Above all, he loved cooking, a skill that brought people and family together and created memories that will live on.

Will was preceded in death by his parents, who helped shape the man we remember today, as well as his beloved dog, Lil Teet, who held a very special place in his heart. He is survived by those who love him dearly: his significant other, Francis Baugh (of 40 plus years); son, Shannon Wilhite and wife Wanda; grandson, Landon Wilhite; and stepchildren, Barbara, David, and Stevie. Each of them carries a piece of Delma’s legacy – in stories told, lessons learned, and love shared.

Will may not have sought attention or praise, but his life mattered deeply. He showed us the value of consistency, loyalty, and caring for others in a quiet but meaningful ways. He taught us that love does not have to be loud to be strong, and that a good meal, a loyal dog, and time spent doing what you love can make a life well lived.

Though we mourn his loss, we are grateful for the years we had with him. Delma Eugene Wilhite will be remembered not only for what he did, but for who he was – a devoted family man, a proud veteran, a hard worker, and someone who leaves behind a legacy of tough love and dedicated service to others and his country. May we carry his memory with us, honor his life by living fully, and find comfort knowing that his story continues in all of us.

The family will conduct a private graveside service. 

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Jane Lee Llorens Smith (83) was born in Shreveport, LA on November 24, 1942, to Dr. Henry G. Llorens and Helen Hunter Llorens. Lee passed away on January 15, 2026, at The Carpenter House Hospice Facility in Shreveport, LA.

A Celebration of Life will be at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church in Ruston LA, on Friday, January 30, 2026, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 12:00p.m. Visitation will be at 10:30 a.m. in the Luffey Catholic Life Center, across the street at St. Thomas Catholic Church. Graveside service will be at Kilpatrick’s Memorial Gardens in Ruston. A lunch will be provided at St. Thomas Catholic Church following the graveside service.

Lee was introduced to her husband, Pat Smith, at the Barksdale Air Force Base Air Show by her neighbor who also had pilot duty that day. Pat and Lee were married on August 6, 1966, and enjoyed 51 years together before his death.

Loving school, she was educated at St. Vincent’s Academy in Shreveport, LA, the University of Dallas in Irving, TX, T.E. Schumpert Hospital in Shreveport, and Louisiana Tech University in Ruston, LA. Lee worked as a Medical Technologist at Confederate Memorial Medical Center (now Oschner/LSU) and for private doctors in Shreveport before her marriage.

During her life in Ruston, she volunteered in both her church and community. At St. Thomas Aquinas she taught (PSR) Parish School of Religion, RCIA (Rite of Initiation for adults and RCIC (Rite of Initiation of Children). She was a certified Master Catechist and a Parish Life Coordinator. She served as Eucharistic Minister at Mass and for the homebound, on the Parish Council, as Women’s Guild President and on many committees. Her most memorable being on the Gumbo Supper Committee. In her community she was a Girl Scout leader, and volunteer at CCA (Christian Community Association) and worked many years with the Ruston Peach Festival Arts and Crafts Show with her sisters in Beta Sigma Phi.

Lee was preceded in death by her husband, parents and brother Henry Hunter Llorens. She is survived by their children, Patrick Smith of Dallas, TX and Colleen Needles and her husband Chris of Shreveport, LA and Kevin Smith of San Antonio, TX. She is also survived by her brother Richard Llorens and his wife Kathleen and their children and grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers the family ask that donations be made to St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, Christian Community Action, or the donor’s choice.

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Howard T. Bell 
Tuesday 05/30/1944 — Sunday 01/18/2026  
Visitation: Friday 01/30/2026 3:00pm to 6:00pm at King’s Funeral Home 
Celebration of Life: Saturday 01/31/2026 11:00am, Shiloh Baptist Church, Bienville 
Interment: Saturday 01/31/2026 Following Service, Collier Cemetery, New Hope Rd., Chatham 

Ada Mae Jenkins 
Thursday 02/11/1943 — Sunday 01/18/2026  
Visitation: Friday 01/23/2026 3:00pm to 6:00pm at King’s Funeral Home 
Celebration of Life: Saturday 01/24/2026 11:00am at King’s Funeral Home 
Interment: Saturday 01/24/2026 Pending 

Delma Eugene Wilhite 
January 5, 1941 – January 20, 2026 
Private services 

Mary Ruth Allred      
August 26, 1944 – January 10, 2026     
Visitation: Saturday, January 24, 2026, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM, Longstraw Baptist Church, 1799 Styles Ranch Rd, Choudrant     
Memorial Service: Saturday, January 24, 2026, 2:00 PM, Longstraw Baptist Church, 1799 Styles Ranch Rd, Choudrant 

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by Malcolm Butler

With the unfortunate passing of longtime District 9 police juror Joe Henderson, the Lincoln Parish Police Jury is now preparing for the process of filling the opening.

LPPJ Administrator Courtney Hall said that the process is outlined by state guidelines. 

“It’s all dictated by Louisiana Revised Statues,” said Hall. “We have 20 days from the day of the vacancy, which wold have been the day that Mr. Henderson passed, to convene. No. 1 we have to issue a proclamation. Also during that time, we have to appoint somebody to fill his unexpired term.”

Hall said that the law states that since there is more than 18 months remaining on the term, the appointee can only fill the role until this fall when a special election will take place where District 9 members vote for a “permanent” replacement who will fill the role through the end of the term.

“If there was less than 18 months left, the person that is appointed could serve the rest of the term,” said Hall. 

Hall said he isn’t sure the exact date of the special election this fall.

“The Secretary of State will tell us when that election needs to take place,” said Hall. “We are waiting on them to tell us.”

He also said he expects the special meeting that will lead to the short-term appointment to take place most likely next week. 

“We are still trying to get some details from our legal council that will help us on this,” said Hall, who verified that the person who is appointed in the coming days could also run during the special election in the fall. 

The LPPJ meeting that will determine the appointment for District 9 will be open to the public as Hall said a proclamation would be sent out publicizing the date and time.

Hall said anyone residing in District 9 who “meets the qualifications” could put their proverbial hat in the ring for the appointment. 

“A lot of times you depend on the person leaving the position to help determine the replacement as a courtesy,” said Hall. “I remember when Ronny Walker left office on the jury, they appointed is wife to fill his unexpired term.”

Linda Henderson, Joe’s wife, is currently a member of the Lincoln Parish School Board. 

“It’s the jury’s decision,” said Hall. “I think there will be some conversations (prior to the meeting) going on to find someone that they all feel is palatable.”

Current LPPJ President Glenn Scriber verified that the current jury would have some conversations with Linda Henderson in advance of the meeting. 

“I think the jury will go into that meeting pretty well united on that one person, and just make the appointment,” said Hall. 

Hall said the proclamation that is issued will specify that a vacancy has occurred and will give a synopsis of qualifications and other details.

The last time the LPPJ had to fill a vacancy in the middle of an existing term was Marvin Franks in 2020, who was replaced by former juror Richard Durrett. 

Henderson served for 34 years on the Lincoln Parish Police jury after being elected in 1992.

“Joe came on board shortly after I started working for the police jury,” said Hall. “He was always a great representative of his district. He was very aware, politically. He was a role model for not only the jury, but his constituents in his community. To get re-elected that many times, it speaks to he was doing a really good job. He is going to be missed and hard to replace.”

by Malcolm Butler

Winter is coming.

It’s a famous line from the Game of Thrones series.

It also rings true for the southern United States this weekend.

Although models are still not 100 percent in agreement and meteorologists continue to remind us that weather is unpredictable, the National Weather Service is still calling for a significant winter weather episode along the I-20 corridor and north.

NWS (Shreveport) meteorologist Ryan Knapp said late Wednesday night that the latest models that had just started to come in are still not clear when it comes to type of precipitation and total accumulation. However, the belief is that our area will be impacted.

“For I-20 and the Ruston area, it’s still a mixed bag when it comes to understanding what is going to evolve as we move into early Saturday morning and through Sunday afternoon,” said Knapp. “Right now the big topic for this event in that area is the concern about freezing rain and sleet across the I-20 corridor. 

“The latest models are showing temperatures maybe a touch warmer than previous model runs, but still sufficient when it comes to ice accumulation along the I-20 corridor, especially when it comes to Lincoln Parish.”

Knapp, who emphasized the forecast could change for the better or worse over the next 24 hours, said that it appears as if the Lincoln Parish area will start to see some of the winter precipitation most likely early Saturday.

“By the clock, most likely Saturday morning, but it could be right around midnight and the very early morning hours Saturday,” said Knapp. “That’s when we could start to see the transition over from rain to sleet and the onset of freezing rain. It won’t be instantaneous for freezing rain, but those temperatures that are below freezing will start to arrive just after midnight. That’s when you will see the onset of sleet and freezing rain potential.”

Knapp said the precipitation could continue through Sunday morning.

“This looks to continue through the day on Saturday and into the morning on Sunday as the moisture hangs in the region,” said Knapp. “I would say it may start to subside sometime after lunch on Sunday.”

What about snow?

“You can’t rule out some snow flurries and some snow showers on the back side of this system as the moisture moves out and the cold air surges back in,” said Knapp. “You can’t rule it out, especially if the column of air a few thousand feet up gets below freezing as well. 

“That’s the big story with this entire system. While at the surface our temperatures are at freezing and even well below, a few thousand feet up we have this warmer layer of air that is just above freezing which allows for any type of winter style precipitation to melt as it falls through the air. It melts and then turns back to rain and then refreezes as it comes down closer to the ground. Or it refreezes as it hits the ground. That’s where that freezing rain can occur.”

So what does the latest model show as to how far south winter precipitation may occur?

“Going off the weather models we have been receiving tonight, there is a chance winter precipitation could extend as far south as say Natchitoches to say Jena, down around LaSalle Parish.”

The Lincoln Parish Journal will continue to stay up to date on the latest of this winter storm headed our way.

 

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by Malcolm Butler

As Mother Nature toys with the emotions of residents across the southern part of the United States, officials with Louisiana Tech and Grambling State as well as Cedar Creek School, Lincoln Preparatory School and the Lincoln Parish School Board are monitoring information coming from the National Weather Service.

Louisiana Tech Executive Vice President for External Cami Geisman said Wednesday that the University is already working towards decisions on any changes on both the campus and athletics side as the weekend approaches. 

“We sent out a Tech Alert (Wednesday) morning,” said Geisman. “We are working with the National Weather Service to monitor the forecast and our emergency response team will meet (this) afternoon. We will communicate any operational changes after that meeting.”

Geisman noted a number of schedule changes on the athletics side already, including the movement of the Bulldog basketball game against Kennesaw State from Saturday to Friday at 1 p.m. A number of other Tech Athletic events that were scheduled for the weekend have already been canceled or postponed.

Geisman said the University would continue to communicate any decisions to faculty, staff and students through Tech Alert as well as through the school’s website and social media platforms.

Grambling State campus operations will close at noon on Thursday, January 22. Any classes scheduled after noon will transition to virtual delivery. Operations and classes will continue with virtual delivery on Friday, January 23, and Monday, January 26. Essential employees will report to campus as directed.

For more details on GSU, click HERE. 

Lincoln Parish School Board Superintendent Ricky Durrett said Wednesday that he expects all schools to be open on Friday, but that they would make a call today or Friday on plans for Monday.  Durrett said the school board would leave any rescheduling of Friday night basketball games to the respective schools.

Ruston High principal Dan Gressett said the Bearcats hoops games against Neville have been moved to Wednesday, Jan. 28. 

Simsboro High head coach Adam Wodach said that the varsity games at Providence originally scheduled for Friday have been rescheduled for Monday, Feb. 2.

Choudrant High was already scheduled to play tonight at Saline (instead of Friday) so those games will be played as originally scheduled. 

Cedar Creek Principal Kenny Henderson said that the school (K through 12) is monitoring the forecast and decisions will be made on school and outside school activities over the next day or so. 

“We are more concerned about Monday,” said Henderson. “Whatever residual will still be here or will the system move slower. I don’t see it speeding up. I could see it slowing down and impacting Monday and possibly Tuesday. I think Friday will be okay and we will be out of school before the system arrives.”

Henderson did say that the school will monitor the system and that Friday evenings varsity basketball games against Glenbrook and Saturday’s pee wee games in Monroe could be impacted. 

“We will probably cancel our pee wee games on Saturday, even though we haven’t even made that final decision yet,” said Henderson. “We probably won’t be traveling to Monroe to play those games. 

“Whatever weather we get will hit (the Glenbrook area) before it hits us. They have to be able to get back home. We may see about moving game times up earlier Friday. I will talk to my coaches and we will look at the weather and see what is possible.”

UPDATE (Thursday, 9 a.m.): Cedar Creek and Glenbrook will play Friday, but are moving gametime up to 5 p.m. for varsity girls followed by varsity boys.

Lincoln Preparatory School Director of Athletics Johnny Simmons said that the school had already rescheduled varsity hoops from Friday to tonight due to a previously scheduled water project by the City of Grambling (which has now been postponed due to potential weather). 

The Panthers girls will tip at 5:30 p.m. and boys following tonight at home against Jonesboro Hodge. 

“Other than that, school-wise we won’t know more until later in the week,” said Simmons. “We have kids coming from Farmerville, Homer and Jonesboro. When kids are coming in from that far away, we will always error on the side of safety. No need to make them make that long drive in questionable conditions. So we will monitor the forecast and make a call when that time comes.”

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At Mark Johnson & Sons Plumbing, we’ve put together a list of winter tips and tricks to help you avoid frozen pipes, water heater issues, and other common issues during a polar vortex.

1. Insulate Exposed Pipes

Wrap pipes in unheated areas like basements, attics, or garages to prevent freezing. Foam pipe insulation is affordable and easy to install!

2. Disconnect Outdoor Hoses

Drain and store your garden hoses to prevent water from freezing and damaging your outdoor faucets. Install insulation caps over your outside faucets.

3. Keep Water Flowing

On extremely cold nights, let hot and cold faucets drip slightly to keep water moving and reduce the risk of freezing.

4. Check Your Water Heater

Give your water heater a quick tune-up to ensure it’s ready for the extra work during winter.

5. Locate Your Shut-Off Valve

Know where your main water shut-off valve is in case of a burst pipe or emergency. When ice accumulation is expected, cover these so they are ready for quick access if needed in an emergency. 

6. Open Cabinet Doors

Where plumbing is on an exterior wall or even an attic wall, open those cabinet doors to allow warm air to the plumbing on nights with extreme low temperatures.

Need Professional Help?

If you’d like assistance preparing your home for winter, Mark Johnson is here to help! Whether it’s insulating pipes, winterizing your sprinkler system, or checking your water heater, our expert team has you covered.

Call us at 318-319-0220 or visit markjohnsonplumbing.com to schedule your service. Let’s keep your home warm, safe, and worry-free this winter!

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By Laura Hunt Miller

In the first piece we talked about using AI for low-stakes tasks: cleaning up notes, rewriting emails, organizing to-do lists; the kind of busywork that quietly drains your mental energy before you even get to your big tasks. Next, let’s talk about using AI as an interactive whiteboard.

When we start circling a concept in our minds, sometimes we don’t know how to articulate what it is we are thinking yet. Or we get distracted trailing the many paths our thoughts can take us down in pursuit of an idea. Or we get interrupted by other to-dos, only to come back to the thought much later, if we don’t abandon it completely.

Thoughts like, “I have an idea for ‘blank,’ but I don’t know where to start” such as:

I want to plan a “x event,” but it feels vague and overwhelming.
I have a project in mind, but I’m not sure what I need.
I want to start a small business, but I don’t know how to get started.

AI can help you convert questions into ideas, and ideas into to-do lists, then point out what information or resources you may need to complete them. It can also help prepare you to ask better questions from the right people, kind of like getting a map before you start asking for directions from the locals.

In this way AI is a thinking space that can help lend your ideas the confidence and structure, which is often the difference between thinking about doing something and actually doing it.

And if you get busy or interrupted while you are at the metaphorical whiteboard? You can save your conversation thread and resume your work later, whether that is at 2 a.m. when insomnia is taunting you, or some other less forsaken hour of the day.

Then there are times I just want to ruminate more about an idea I am not sure how I feel about yet. Maybe it’s a political problem, a future planning decision, or two sides of an issue between friends or family. For these sorts of issues, I will give AI a prompt like:

• This situation bothers me, here is what I think and/or know, what other points of view could help me process this better?
• Here are two options I’m torn between. Help me list the tradeoffs.
• Here is a controversial topic I don’t know much about, can you help me explore the issue and the various opinions others might have about it?

In this way AI becomes a means to process my own worldview via language that makes sense to me, sometimes helping me arrive at clarity, and other times helping me realize how much more I still need to learn before I open my big mouth and start proclaiming my ignorance as certainty. Note: I have not had time to cover all my ignorances yet, so there is likely plenty of blabbering yet to come.

While we are on the topic of “ignorance masked as certainty,” you should be aware that AI models are generally designed to be agreeable and encouraging. They want to be helpful and flattering, because that keeps you using the tool.

This is not automatically a bad thing, but it does mean AI is often biased toward your point of view. If you’re not very discerning about the information it gives you, AI can quietly turn into confirmation bias on demand.

The good news is you can push back. I tend to detect pandering right away (and dislike it) so I often ask the app I use to be more critical, argue the opposite, or outright tell it to stop blowing smoke up my thought threads. Typically it complies too politely (complete with a laughing emoji), but I guess that it is better than nothing.

Again, remember you are the operator with the brain. AI is not intended to be your moral authority or your decision-maker, nor a replacement for lived experience or a substitute for experts, friends, or prayer. But you can certainly use it as a tool to help you explore moral notions and decisions you are unsure of, point you towards experience or expertise you need, and help you clarify what your big concerns are before you take them to others or to God. You know, if the Big Guy is something you believe in.

My goal isn’t to outsource my thinking, but to deepen and clarify it, so I can act with greater intention in my daily life. So next time you start putting some idea back on your mental shelf because you think it is too big or complex for you to even begin to unravel, throw it into an AI model and see where it takes you. You might be surprised.

AI Homework time! Want to give AI whiteboarding a whirl? Try out these prompts to get started:

Prompt 1: Describe an idea you felt was beyond your means to explore or follow through on. Ask AI to list what you would need to realize it, and assess feasibility based on your time and resources.

Prompt 2: Tell AI about an issue you go back and forth on and where you currently stand, then ask: “what else about this issue should I consider?”

Prompt 3: After you get a response you agree with, then ask: “What is an opposing point of view to mine, and why might someone reasonably support it?”

If you feel like the responses broaden your perspective or excite you about exploring other ideas you have, awesome. If not, forget about it and get back to making that grocery list.

In the next piece, we’ll zoom out and talk about using AI to create images and documents, and some of the ethical issues that arise.

Discover the Cedar Creek Difference: Apply Today

For more than 50 years, Cedar Creek School has been dedicated to nurturing the minds, hearts, and spirits of students in a Christian environment that prioritizes both academic excellence and character development. Applications for the 2025-2026 school year are open. Schedule a tour and see why families choose Cedar Creek, where we strive to live by our motto: Super Omnia—The Best of All.

Cedar Creek isn’t just a school; it is a community where students are encouraged to become their best selves. We invite you to explore our campus, meet our dedicated faculty, and learn more about the diverse opportunities available to students aged three and up. With our new tuition assistance programs, a superior college preparatory education is more accessible than ever.

Why Choose Cedar Creek School?

A Foundation in Faith:
At Cedar Creek, we believe that a strong moral foundation is essential to a well-rounded education. Our Christian environment provides a supportive and faith-based backdrop where students are encouraged to grow spiritually as they prepare for life beyond the classroom.

Academic Excellence:
Our students consistently achieve remarkable results. Cedar Creek received Gold Level AP School Honor Roll recognition, one of only 7% of all eligible schools across the United States and Canada. The class of 2025 boasts a 98% college acceptance rate, with the remaining 2% choosing to serve our community and country in the armed forces. The top half of the class earned a 28.6 or above on the ACT, over 10 points higher than the state average. Collectively, they earned over $4.6 million in college scholarships. Additionally, Cedar Creek offers 14 Advanced Placement courses and many dual enrollment opportunities, allowing students to earn college credits before they graduate. Cedar Creek is nationally recognized as creating a college-going culture that gives students opportunities to earn college credit and maximize their college outcomes.

Holistic Learning Opportunities:
From the earliest grades through high school, Cedar Creek provides a comprehensive and cohesive curriculum that supports a love of learning. Young students have daily access to PE, recess, and character development programs. We also offer music, art, drama, computer, library, STEM, Bible, and foreign language classes, ensuring that our students are well-rounded and culturally aware.

Small Class Sizes:
We prioritize individualized attention with small class sizes in our Pre-K 3 classes through our upper school courses. This close-knit learning environment allows our certified and dedicated faculty to tailor their approach to meet the unique needs of each child.

Instructional Support:

The Cedar Creek Acceleration Program (CCAP) is a specialized support program designed to help students with learning differences build confidence and achieve academic success. Through small-group instruction, diagnostic evaluation, and targeted, evidence-based interventions, CCAP addresses challenges such as dyslexia, language-based learning differences, and gaps in foundational reading or math skills. The program provides a structured, caring environment focused on helping each student grow academically while reaching their full, God-given potential.

A Thriving Community of Leaders and Scholars:
Cedar Creek is proud to foster a community of service-oriented leaders. Our graduating class of 2025 completed over 3,500 hours of community service and included two National Merit Scholars. Students have access to a wealth of extracurricular activities, with 100% of 2025 graduating seniors involved in at least one activity. Cedar Creek is a member of the LHSAA, offering 16 high school sports teams and spirit groups, along with 29 clubs and organizations on campus. Sports and activities start early at Cedar Creek, beginning with our PeeWee sports program for our lower school students. We believe that students should be encouraged to pursue their interests, develop new skills, and give back to their community.

Lifelong Preparation:
With our focus on building a foundation for the future, Cedar Creek prepares students not just for college, but for a lifetime of success. Our commitment to excellence has earned us national recognition, and our graduates continue to make a positive impact long after they leave our halls.

New Tuition Assistance Options Are Available:

Cedar Creek School now offers several different tuition assistance options. These include our non-profit partners, ACE and ARETE, campus-based tuition assistance through FACTS, and we are proud to partner with the state of Louisiana through the new LA GATOR program. More information on these programs is available on our website: cedarcreekschool.org/tuition-assistance.

Apply today!

Don’t miss this chance to see why Cedar Creek is consistently recognized as one of the premier schools in Louisiana. Several of our grade levels have reached capacity, and others are filling quickly. We encourage you to apply online today. Whether you’re looking for a faith-based education, strong academics, or a community where your child will be supported and challenged, Cedar Creek offers The Best of All.

Visit cedarcreekschool.org to learn more or to apply today.

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Cedar Creek School is accredited by both SAIS and the State of Louisiana, and admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. Cedar Creek School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs.

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This is a paid advertorial

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On Tuesday, January 20, 2026, shortly after 9:00 p.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop F began investigating a single-vehicle fatal crash involving a pedestrian on Louisiana Highway 617 (Thomas Road) just south of Old Natchitoches Road.

The crash claimed the life of 48-year-old Aaron O’Donnell.

The preliminary investigation revealed that a 2002 Hyundai Santa Fe was traveling south on Thomas Road. At the same time, O’Donnell, who was wearing dark clothing, was crossing Thomas Road from west to east. For reasons still under investigation, O’Donnell was struck by the Hyundai.

O’Donnell received serious injuries. He was transported to an area hospital, where he later died. The driver of the Hyundai was properly restrained and uninjured. Although impairment is not suspected, routine toxicology samples were collected and will be submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.

Louisiana State Police urge both pedestrians and motorists to remain alert and aware of their surroundings while on or near roadways. Crashes involving pedestrians are often preventable when basic safety measures are observed. Pedestrians are encouraged to wear reflective clothing, utilize well-lit areas, walk facing oncoming traffic, and minimize distractions.

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No one wants to disco in a blizzard!

For everyone’s safety, the Mardi Gras Ball is rescheduled to February 21. Same disco. Same sparkle. Just warmer weather.

All tickets and sponsorships will automatically carry over to the new date.

This gives us the perfect excuse to extend Mardi Gras celebrations just a little longer. We look forward to celebrating together on a night that allows for safe travel, full attendance, and the vibrant Mardi Gras energy this event deserves.

Stay safe and see y’all under the disco lights!

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By the time you read this article, there will be a new national champion in college football, and the NFL playoffs will be down to four teams.  The seasons started with 136 D1 college programs and 32 NFL teams.  They all had the same goals.  They all had the same aspirations when the season started. 

Every business has objectives.  Every team has a goal.  People have hopes, dreams, and aspirations.  Some even declare resolutions. 

These are good things, but they don’t guarantee success.  Outcome based aspirations can provide motivation, clarify destination, and unite organizations.  However, “inputs” determine outcomes.

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Inputs are those daily habits, consistent actions, and commitments that we hold firm that make the difference.  These standards clarify our identity and determine the direction of our life and the culture within our organizations.  It’s the process that determines our lifestyle.

A team may have a goal of winning a conference championship, but their “daily inputs” will determine how far they go. 

A sales professional may aspire to generate a top tier sales recognition year, but the “daily inputs” will determine how much success is obtained.

An individual may set a goal of getting in better physical condition, but their “daily inputs” will determine just how far they go in getting in better condition.

I was recently speaking to a group and asked them how they would define success for 2026.  In other words, if we were to fast forward to December 31, 2026, what would have happened to make the year a success.  After a few minutes of searching, they started sharing several outcomes. 

When they finished, I asked them to identify the “inputs” that would drive these outcomes.  They didn’t realize it at the time, but we were mapping out a plan for 2026.  We were identifying their standards, defining their culture, and developing a plan for the year. 

We were narrowing their focus to items that would directly drive success and eliminating busy activities that had little to do with driving an outcome.  We were saying “yes” to new standards and “no” to old ways. 

The key was for them to embrace the process, not just the desired destination.

To crave the outcome but not love the process is to guarantee disappointment. 

The process for an individual is our lifestyle represented by our habits.  The process (or standards) of an organization defines the culture. 

Are your habits and commitments consistent with the lifestyle you seek?

Can you point to the inputs within your organization that create the culture you seek?

Matthew 5:16 says, “To let my light shine before others, so that they may see good works and glorify God”.

The desired outcome:  People give glory to God

The consistent input: Letting my light shine before others

 How are you going to define success in 2026?  What are your “inputs”?

Doug equips leaders to make organizations better.  He has two Christian-based leadership books available on all online platforms.  Whether you are looking for a speaker for your next event or a leadership coach to develop people and build an authentic team, contact 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.

A woman was arrested for disturbing the peace and simple battery after Ruston Police responded to a call at an entertainment center at the Ruston Sports Complex Sunday afternoon.

Gwendolyn Davis, 34, of West Monroe, was arrested at about 1:30 p.m. Jan. 18 after a call from the Excalibur Family Entertainment Center on Leon Barmore Way.

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Officers found Davis lying in the mud outside the building. Excalibur staff said Davis had been screaming and cursing inside the building and would not leave even after she being asked repeatedly. Her relative said they had been sitting in his truck in the parking lot when they engaged in a verbal altercation. Davis, according to the relative, slapped him on the face and screamed for him to get out of the truck. Davis’s relative confirmed she had started screaming inside the building and using profanities.

Based on the complaints from the center staff and the relative, Davis was arrested and taken into the Lincoln Parish Detention Center.

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.