“Do not think that because you are in the king’s house you alone of all the Jews will escape. For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?” Esther 4:13-14 (NIV)
Legendary boxer Joe Louis told his opponents that they could run, but they could not hide. Mordecai warned his cousin Esther in the same way.
The Old Testament’s Book of Esther reads like a novel: suspense, beauty, greed, death, intrigue, the possibility of tremendous loss, the surprising victory of the underdog, and the gory death of the Bad Guy. But in the fourth chapter, the situation is far from decided.
Esther has been tasked with risking her life to save her people, the Jews, the bloodline from which the Savior of the world will come. And Jesus WILL come. “. . . relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but . . ..” Mordecai says.
Just as God placed Esther as the queen of Persia at a special time for a particular reason, so he does with the rest of us. It was God who saved the Jews, not Esther; it was Esther who agreed, at the risk of her life, to be used.
Why are you in Ruston or Natchitoches or Bossier or Los Angeles or Smackover, Arkansas? I don’t know either. But God knows. You are where you are because you are where God needs you to be. If you are not where God wants you to be, He’ll let you know that too. But a Being who can create from nothing a squirrel and a mountain and solar system can surely have the intelligence to use you, whether you are royalty or a serf, for the perfect good of the Kingdom, no matter where you are.
Wherever you are, God is too. Royalty walks with you.
Your location does not determine your limitation. God can do anything through you, if you trust Him . . . right where you are.
NOTE – This is the second in Teddy’s series of five columns based on Esther.
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From left to right: Brantley, Williams, Howard, and Spencer
Narcotics officers executed a series of search warrants in southeast Ruston in the early morning hours last week.
Four men were arrested Feb. 12 in cases involving narcotics, including ecstasy, tramadol, marijuana, and methamphetamine.
At about 5 a.m., a search warrant was executed at a Ginger Drive residence where Omarrion Brantley, 21, was arrested for illegal carrying of a weapon and a warrant for simple burglary of an inhabited dwelling. A Taurus pistol was recovered in the search.
A search warrant at a second Ginger Drive residence led to the arrest of Anthony Williams, Jr., 30, for possession of MDMA (ecstasy). During the search an officer discovered a prescription bottle in a kitchen drawer containing a suspected MDMA tablets.
Simultaneous with the Ginger Drive searches, a search warrant was executed at an Apple Drive residence. Adrian Howard, 49, was arrested after initially resisting efforts to take him in the custody.
Antonio Spencer, 42, was arrested when a search warrant was executed at a Sage Court residence. After Spencer was arrested, a tramadol capsule was found in plain view on the living room table.
Spencer was booked at the Lincoln Parish Detention Center on warrants charging him with distribution of methamphetamine, violation of the drug free zone, and failure to appear in court on a child support charge and possession of tramadol, a Schedule IV controlled substance.
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.
Basketball is a game of surges, and it was a pair of first-half surges by Castor High School that led the Tigers defeating Cedar Creek 58-47 Tuesday night inside The Brickhouse.
A 5-0 run by Castor to open the game gave the Tigers momentum. Castor led by as many as six points in the first quarter before the Cougars battled back to pull within four points at 15-11 heading into the second stanza.
“Early on we stepped out of the scouting report a little bit and gave (Castor’s) 12 (Cole Gilcrease) and 24 (Kyler Austin) as good of offensive rebounds we’ve seen all year,” said Cougars coach Todd Martinez. “Those were easy rebounds that led to easy buckets.
“The two possessions to start the game, 11 (Castor’s Hayden Thompson) runs off a baseline screen and then (on the Tigers’ next possession) 12 gets an offensive rebound and we’re down 5-0. That was a punch in the mouth. But we locked in the next seven minutes and played with them really well until that last part of the second quarter.”
That second-quarter surge for the Tigers started with a Matt McCarthy 3-pointer with 4:51 remaining in the first half giving Castor a 20-16 advantage and starting a 14-1 run that left Cedar Creek down 30-17 at halftime.
“At halftime (Gilcrease) and (Austin) had combined for 15 of their 30 points,” Martinez said. “We knew about 11 (Thompson). You have to guard 11 differently than you guard everybody else. Normally in high school basketball, you run back to the lane and guard the lane. You guard the game against 11 and you’re giving up three points. You let him loose and you’re giving up three. And he got loose and hit three (3-pointers to finish with nine points), but I think we did a pretty good job of defending (against) him.”
Defensive play was a big part of that Castor run to close out the second quarter.
“We didn’t do a great job of handling the halfcourt trap toward the last segment of the second quarter which was, to me, the difference in the game,” Martinez said. “Those last four minutes of the second quarter, where we didn’t do a good job of handling their trap defense and keeping them off the offensive glass caused the scoring (separation). That and the fact that we didn’t shoot well from the (free throw) line in the second half.’
A 3-point shot by a wide open Luke Alexander off an assist from Temple cut the Castor lead to six points at 31-25 at the 5:08 mark of the third quarter, but that’s as close as the Cougars would get the rest of the way with the Tigers building as much as a 17–point lead at 50-33 with 5:32 remaining in the game.
Alexander led the Cougars with 14 points while Temple added 11.
Gilcrease led Castor with 17 points while Austin finished with nine for the Tigers.
“I thought we fought like crazy and gave ourselves a chance,” Martinez said. “They have bigs and can run. The thing we wanted to stop them in was transitioning because we saw that they scored multiple games in the 60s and 70s and even the 80s, so keeping them in the 50s was something we wanted to do. I thought we did a good job of that. But it just wasn’t quite enough.”
Now the Cougars (12-21) turn their attention to Thursday’s season finale at home against Downsville.
“We told them we’re going to learn a lot about our culture,” Martinez said of Thursday’s upcoming season finale. “Where we are position-wise (out of a chance at the playoffs), it becomes are we willing to send Cam (Temple, Cedar Creek’s lone senior) out on a good night because he deserves it. That kid has been amazing. And finishing the season with a win and going into the spring and summer with some momentum would be a good thing for this team.
“When I was hired I said that we were going to be process oriented not outcome oriented. Granted, everybody wants to win and all that stuff, but if you focus on the outcome and not the process, you’re never going to meet your goals. So, we’re going to learn a lot about our culture on Thursday. Are we just going to show up and go through the motions, or are we going to show up and try to do things right?”
This winter has been a banner season for the dogs digging holes in the yard. With no grass to slow them down, they’ve taken to excavation like they’re auditioning for a canine episode of Gold Rush. They dig with abandon—pure, unfiltered joy. They’ve discovered a corner of the yard where two fences meet, a natural low spot that practically whispers, “Come on boys… dig here.” And they have obeyed that whisper with religious devotion.
Their digging has become a daily game: they dig, and I fill. They dig again, and I fill again. It’s our own little liturgy of futility. The hole is impressive—honestly, at this point I think the city should consider it for historical landmark status. They’ve even tunneled under the fencepost. Every day I stand there with my shovel, muttering, “Surely this time I’ve filled it,” and every day the dogs look back at me like, “Bless your heart.”
The other day, while filling the hole for the 47th time (give or take), I noticed it seemed to stretch out into the field behind the house. That was odd. I tried to imagine the position the dog must have been in to dig beyond the fence—some kind of canine yoga pose, no doubt.
Curiosity got the best of me, so I walked around to the other side. And there it was: a matching hole. My dogs weren’t just digging a hole—they were digging a two-sided hole. A collaborative, multi-campus excavation project. Most dogs dig under a fence to escape the yard. Mine? They dig under the fence and then keep digging on the other side, not to escape, but because the hole itself is the joy. They could have run free, explored the world, chased squirrels in new zip codes… but no. They stayed focused on digging the best hole ever dug in that backyard.
They are on a perfect hole-digging mission.
And it makes me wonder: what about your life? Do you have that kind of focus and tenacity as you try to live out your purpose?
Or—and let’s be honest here—are you more like the rest of us, digging a hole on one side of the fence, then walking around and digging the same hole from the other side? We don’t always need help escaping our problems. Sometimes we need help stopping the digging.
That raises the real question: what is your purpose in living? There’s a place called the church, and on Sunday mornings we help you wrestle with that question. We help you find direction, hope, and meaning. And yes—many times—we help you climb out of the very hole you’ve dug for yourself.
Because unlike my dogs, you don’t have to keep digging. You really can step into a bigger world.
And we’d love to help you do it.
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Hall Summit is preparing for a big day of action, community spirit, and charitable giving as the Hall Summit Community Center & Park hosts a full slate of events on Saturday, February 28, 2026, all benefiting Pilots for Patients.
The all-day event will bring together motorcycle riders, barbecue teams, outdoor sportsmen, vendors, and families for a cause that provides critical air transportation for patients in medical need.
One of the highlights of the day will be the Don Bernard Memorial Poker Run, which will begin at 3 State Harley-Davidson in Bossier City before riders make their way to Hall Summit. Motorcycles, cars, Jeeps, and clubs are all welcome to participate, honoring Bernard’s legacy while supporting the life-saving mission of Pilots for Patients.
Also on the schedule is a BBQ Cook-Off, featuring a non-traditional two-meat competition with half chicken and ribs. Teams will compete for bragging rights and prizes, with an entry fee of $150. Smoke will be in the air as pits fire up for what organizers expect to be a competitive and crowd-pleasing cook-off.
Outdoor excitement continues with a Wild Hog Live Catch Tournament, offering 40 award buckles and action throughout the day. The tournament is expected to draw participants from across the region.
In addition to the main events, attendees can enjoy a silent auction, raffles, vendors, concessions, and a variety of family-friendly activities, making the day accessible for all ages.
The event will take place at Hall Summit Community Center & Park, located at 1170 First Street in Hall Summit.
All proceeds from the day will go directly to Pilots for Patients, a nonprofit organization that coordinates free air transportation for patients facing serious medical challenges.
Organizers say the event is about more than competition and entertainment — it’s about honoring a legacy, supporting a life-saving cause, and showcasing the strength of a small community coming together for something bigger.
Each Monday through Friday, the Lincoln Parish Journal will post a list of non-for-profit upcoming events happening in the parish. If you would like to add your event to this list or advertise your for-profit events, please email us at lpjnewsla@gmail.com.
Wednesday, Feb. 18 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) 6 p.m.: LA Tech baseball 6:30 p.m.: LA Tech men’s basketball
Thursday, Feb. 19 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Kiwanis Club lunch and program (Trinity Methodist Church fellowship hall) 2 p.m.: Ribbon cutting celebrating The Scullery Laundromat (413 W. Alabama Ave.) 4 p.m.: Tween Time: Mardi Gras Masks (Lincoln Parish Library) 4:30-5:30 p.m.: Free meal of baked chicken, twice-baked potatoes and more provided by LaTech Culinary Class and sponsored by 5 Loaves 2 Fish Ministry. Pick up at the Choudrant location of Origin Bank. All are welcome. 5 p.m.: Library Board of Control meeting (Lincoln Parish Library) 5:30-8 p.m.: Ruston Art Ramble (Downtown Ruston) 6 p.m.: Teen time: Bwa Masks craft (Lincoln Parish Library) 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 softball 6:30 p.m.: Books and Bites Book Club; registration required; call 318-513-5510 ( (Lincoln Parish Library at The Local)
Friday, Feb. 20 4 p.m.: Family Fun Friday: Tommy Teriffic, magician (Lincoln Parish Library) 6 p.m.: LA Tech softball
Saturday, Feb. 21 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Farmers Market 10 a.m.: Master Gardeners present Bulbs and Blooms (Lincoln Parish Library) 2 p.m.: LA Tech softball 7-9 p.m.: Java N Jazz (The MARC, 504 E. Georgia Ave.)
Sunday, Feb. 22 Noon: LA Tech softball
Monday, Feb. 23 11:30 a.m.: Lunch on Us (Presbyterian Church, 212 North Bonner Street., Ruston) — everyone welcome 6 p.m.: Video-led exercise class (Lincoln Parish Library Events Center) 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, Feb. 24 10 a.m.: Storytime: Going to the Moon with storytime guest Rev. Dele (Lincoln Parish Library) 4 p.m.: Crafternoon: Moving Rocket Ships (Lincoln Parish Library) 6 p.m.: Memories of the Movement: Remembering Our Civil Rights Legacy panel discussion (Lincoln Parish Library Events Center) 6 p.m.: Adult Craft Night: Agamorgraph Black History Art Celebration; registration required by calling 318-513-5510 (Lincoln Parish Library) 6 p.m.: LA Tech baseball
Wednesday, Feb. 25 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) 3 p.m.: GSU softball
Thursday, Feb. 26 10 a.m.: Ribbon cutting celebrating The UPS Store (1735 Farmerville Hwy., Suite 12) 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Kiwanis Club lunch and program (Trinity Methodist Church fellowship hall) 4 p.m.: GSU men’s basketball 4 p.m.: Tween Time: Alma Thomas paintings (Lincoln Parish Library) 6 p.m.: Teen Time: Volunteer Opportunity (Lincoln Parish Library) 6-8 p.m.: 2026 BFA senior class from Louisiana Tech University’s School of Design will debut Introspective Narratives, a dynamic collaborative exhibition opening (Lincoln Parish Museum) 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.: LA Tech men’s basketball
Friday, Feb. 27 3:30 p.m.: LA Tech softball 6 p.m.: LA Tech softball 6 p.m.: LA Tech baseball
Saturday, Feb. 28 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Farmers Market 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.: Inaugural Black Expo (Lincoln Parish Library Events Center) 2 p.m.: LA Tech men’s basketball 4 p.m.: LA Tech baseball 6 p.m.: LA Tech softball 6:30 p.m.: GSU men’s basketball
Sunday, March 1 Noon: LA Tech softball 1 p.m.: LA Tech baseball
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The Diamond ‘Dogs (4-0) host the McNeese Cowboys (1-2) tonight for their first midweek contest of the new season and the first of a two-game home-and-home split between the two sides at the Love Shack.
First pitch is scheduled for 6 p.m. and the game can be seen on ESPN+.
Wednesday’s contest marks the 128th meeting between LA Tech and McNeese, with the first contest dating back to 1970 when the Cowboys won the season series, 3-1. The Bulldogs won the last meeting in 2024, 13-4, and have secured victories in four of their last five meetings. Tech has seven-straight home wins when playing McNeese and are 10-2 against the Cowboys at the Love Shack since 2012.
The Diamond ‘Dogs got off to a 4-0 start for the third-straight year and the seventh time in the Lane Burroughs era since 2017. With those four weekend wins, Burroughs is now just two wins shy of tying Barry Hinton for the second-most coaching wins in LA Tech baseball history.
Graduate transfer Colby Lunsford found his stride at the plate immediately in his debut as a Bulldog. The ULM transfer batted .600 throughout the four-game weekend series vs Houston Christian with six runs, three doubles, and two home runs.
Cade Patterson was among an elite group on Opening Day as well, belting two grand slams in the season opener and ending the weekend with a .400 average, 5 runs and a team-high 12 RBIs to lead the conference at the start of the season. Patterson was the first Bulldog to hit two grand slams in a game since TJ Soto in 2000, both of which he hit in the same inning.
Florida State transfer Hudson Rowan and reigning CUSA Freshman of the Year Brooks Roberson both earned wins in their first starts of the year on the mound.
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Men’s Basketball
After splitting its road trip last week, Louisiana Tech is back home to host Jacksonville State tonight inside the Thomas Assembly Center on Karl Malone Court. The Bulldogs are set to play three of their next four games in Ruston.
Tipoff is set for 6 p.m. and the game can be seen on ESPN+.
LA Tech (14-11, 7-7) was on the verge of collecting a road sweep, but the Bulldogs ran out of gas the latter part of the second half in a 77-64 loss to FIU this past Saturday in Miami. LA Tech was clicking on all cylinders through the first eight minutes of the second stanza, building a five-point lead over FIU. However, the Panthers controlled the rest of the ball game, outscoring the Bulldogs 30-12 the rest of the way, which snapped LA Tech’s six-game winning streak over FIU.
Despite the loss, LA Tech stayed in a tie for fourth in the league standings with six conference games remaining. The Bulldogs are in a three-way tie with WKU and Missouri State, only two games back of second and one game back of third-place Jacksonville State.
Jacksonville State (13-12, 8-6) had a hot stretch of winning five of six conference games. However, the Gamecocks dropped their last two contests this past week to UTEP and New Mexico State, both at home.
Despite the losses, Jax State sits alone in third in the league standings with six games to play. Four of their last six contests will be on the road. They are 3-3 in road conference games.
Jax State operates with one of the top defenses in the league, ranking top 30 in the country in several statistical categories including scoring defense (66.9), field goal percentage defense (39.7), and three-point field goal percentage defense (30.1).
Reese Torres hit her third home run of the season to lift Tech to a 12-3 win over Northwestern State.
Tech Softball 12, Northwestern State 3 (5 innings)
Reese Torres hit her third home run of the season and drove in four runs to help lead Louisiana Tech to a 12-3 run-rule win over Northwestern State Tuesday night at Dr. Billy Bundrick Field.
Tech (9-2) plated six runs in the first, four in the second and two more in the third to blow open the game and coast in its home opener.
Allie Floyd pitched two perfect innings, striking out two, before giving way to Laney Johnson (1 IP, 3 H, 2 UE runs), and Bryannah Campos (2.0 IP, 2 H, 1 UE run).
The Bulldogs capitalized on four first inning walks and an error to build a 6-0 lead as Bradi Gallaway and Rosalie Dufresne each registered RBI singles.
Tech added four more runs in the second inning, the big blast coming off the bat of Torres who lined her third home run of the season — a 3-run shot — opposite field over the left field wall to make it 10-0. Tech then added a pair of runs in the third on an RBI single by Allie Furr and a throwing error by the Demons.
NSU scored three unearned runs in the fourth inning but it wasn’t enough.
Tech will host ULM Thursday at 6 p.m.
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Tech Golf
Louisiana Tech’s Morton Bailey and Abel Derksen each finished under par for the third straight round on Tuesday at the Hal Williams Collegiate as both Bulldogs finished the event five under, tying for ninth.
The Magnolia Grove Golf Course played a full stroke harder in the final round. LA Tech would shoot one over (281) as a team, ultimately finishing in seventh on the team leaderboard with an overall score of 833 (-7).
“I was pleased with the way we competed this tournament,” said head coach Matt Terry. “We are still making some sloppy mistakes, but we will continue to clean those up at home in each practice. I was especially pleased to see us go from last in par five scoring in our last event to second in this event.
“Morton continued his solid play finishing in the top 10, and it was great to see Abel have his hard work pay off with a top 10 finish as well. All in all, the team got better this week.”
Derksen had the best scorecard for the Bulldogs in round three, closing out the day with a birdie on his final hole the long Par 4 No. 4 to shoot 68 (-2) which tied his season low from round one. The sophomore ended up claiming his first top 10 placing of his collegiate career.
Bailey had a sporadic round that included five bogeys and six birdies. The sophomore would finish with a one under 69 to secure his first collegiate top 10. He now has four top 20 finishes in his six tournaments this season and has six of his last seven rounds at or under par.
As a result, Derksen and Bailey outdueled seven players who were ranked in the top 150 in the country.
The remaining two scorecards used for LA Tech came from Riley Hnatyshyn and Oskari Schuvalow who each registered a final round of 72 (+2). Both Bulldogs tied for 39th on the player leaderboard.
No. 13-ranked Illinois ran away with the team title, shooting 809 (-31).
LA Tech ended up tallying three wins over top 100 teams including Southern Illinois (87), Rice (53), and host South Alabama (57).
A Celebration of Life for Donald “Don” Ray Tippit will be 11:00 A.M. Saturday, February 21, 2026, at Temple Baptist Church Chapel in Ruston, LA. Officiating the service will be Dr. Reggie Bridges and Rev. Dale Oden. Interment will follow in Kilpatrick’s Memorial Gardens in Ruston under the direction of Kilpatrick Funeral Homes.
A visitation will begin at 10:00 A.M. until service time at Temple Baptist Church Chapel, 1515 S. Service Road West, Ruston, LA 71270.
Donald Ray Tippit, our beloved husband, father, brother, uncle, and dear friend passed away peacefully to be with His Lord and Savior on February 14, 2026, in his adopted hometown of Ruston, LA. His wife and daughter were by his side.
Born in Parma, MO on May 14, 1935, to Elena and Louis Tippit, Don grew up embracing life with a spirited sense of adventure and a tender heart. Don was preceded in death by his parents and siblings Ruth Reinmiller, Dorothy Richardson, and Bill Tippit. He attended school in Dexter, MO and graduated from Dexter High School in 1954.
Upon graduation Don joined the United States Marine Corps. Stationed at Kaneohe Bay, HI he served in ship-to-shore communications and played on the Marine Corps football team. A teammate led Don to Louisiana Tech where he played right guard from 1957-1961 and served as tri-captain his senior year. He was a proud Bulldog! Don graduated with a degree in Wildlife Conservation and Management in 1962, shortly after marrying the love of his life.
Don’s many interests led him to various work experiences: from a federal fish hatchery in Charles City, VA to a UCLA nuclear test site in Nevada; from insurance adjuster in Ruston to adjuster and underwriter in Seattle, WA; from personnel manager in Laurinburg, NC to developing avocado and citrus groves in rural Vista, CA. In 1997 he retired as superintendent of the Escondido Canal that delivered water to the cities of Escondido and Vista, CA.
While in California, when not coaching soccer or softball, or playing tennis, or building stilts, tree forts and playhouses, Don could be found teaching his daughters how to skin a rattlesnake, saddle a horse or build a fire. After 30 years in California, he and Patricia returned to their Ruston roots to build their dream home on twenty acres purchased in 1972.
Known for his deep love of nature and appreciation for God’s creations, Don enjoyed tending to his vegetable gardens, tinkering in his workshop, and riding his bike on country roads. An avid bike rider, he and a friend rode one hundred miles along Natchez Trace enjoying their camaraderie and the beauty of the outdoors. He was a happy backyard birder who cherished his time feeding and observing the birds that frequented the Double Tree deck. Don was a lifelong learner who loved to read and enjoyed making friends near and far on his ham radio.
Don is lovingly remembered by his wife of 64 years Patricia Kavanaugh Tippit and adoring daughters Lori, Jill and Jennifer who all reside in southern California. He will be missed by his sister Jane El Farra and sisters-in-law Terri Tippit and Martha Kavanaugh. Other surviving family members include cousins in Missouri and many nieces and nephews who have fond memories of carefree summers fishing on the pond, going on wild Jeep rides, riding horses and target shooting with him on Mission Ranch.
The family would like to thank Kim Roberson and the compassionate staff of Premier Hospice, and Dr. George Smith for his care and kindness over the years.
In lieu of flowers the family suggests donations to 4Paws Rescue Inc., 290 Rodeo Road, Ruston, LA 71270.
Sandra D. Spivey Saturday 11/22/1952 — Tuesday 02/10/2026 Visitation: Thursday 02/19/2026 3:00pm to 6:00pm at King’s Funeral Home Celebration of Life: Friday 02/20/2026 11:00am at King’s Funeral Home Private Burial
Revell Jackson Saturday 08/27/1932 — Sunday 02/01/2026 Visitation: Friday 02/20/2026 3:00pm to 6:00pm at King’s Funeral Home Celebration of Life: Saturday 02/21/2026 11:00am, Countyline Baptist Church, 7246 Highway 146, Ruston Interment : Saturday 02/21/2026 Following Service, Grambling Memorial Garden, Hwy. 80 West, Grambling
Trotter Hunt (left) accepts the Distinguished Partner in Education Award on behalf of HGA from Lincoln Parish Schools Assistant Superintendent John Young.
by Hanna Singh
The Ruston-Lincoln Chamber of Commerce hosted their 106th annual Chamber Awards Banquet, honoring awards recipients including local community members and businesses.
Sponsored by Right Fiber, with generous support from HGA and B1 Bank, the annual event celebrated individuals and businesses for their contributions to the community. The night also acknowledged the initiatives and accomplishments made by the Chamber of Commerce throughout the year.
The award recipients recognized at the banquet were applauded for their significant contributions to the Ruston-Lincoln Parish area, from entrepreneurial ventures to volunteer service work. Awards were presented by the Kiwanis of Ruston, the Lincoln Parish School Board, the Rotary Club of Ruston, the Junior Auxiliary of Ruston and the Ruston-Lincoln Chamber. Executive Vice President of the Chamber, Bevin Hicks, emphasized the success of this year’s banquet and the impact made by the award recipients.
“The 106th Annual Ruston-Lincoln Chamber Awards Banquet was a wonderful success and such a special evening for our community,” Hicks said. “It was an honor to recognize and celebrate the deserving individuals who make our area so strong.”
Award winners included
Firefighter of the Year – Chief Christopher Womack
Law Enforcement Officer of the Year – Officer Matthew Reed
Educator of the Year – Kaitlyn Mercer
Distinguished Partner in Education – HGA
Bill Best Humanitarian Award – Patricia Willis
Betty Robbins Volunteer of the Year – Denise Grigsby
Business of the Year – Ruston Animal Clinic
Young Business Leader of the Year Award – Rob Owens
Robert E. Russ Award – Jay Guillot
The banquet also highlighted accomplishments and notable developments in the Ruston-Lincoln Parish community during the year 2025. Some of these included the success of Small Business Month and the workforce development grant initiative.
The speakers, including Chamber President Elizabeth Turnley, Incoming Board Chairman Pastor George Lee IV and current Board Chairman Lindsey Thomlinson acknowledged the impact that local entrepreneurs, leaders, volunteers and businesses made on the community last year. They also touched on the importance of the support given by the Chamber of Commerce to improve local business growth and development.
Chairman of the Ruston-Lincoln Chamber Board, Lindsey Tomlinson, addressed the role that the Chamber has played in supporting local businesses for many decades.
“For more than a century, the Ruston-Lincoln Chamber has served as a cornerstone of our business community, advocating for our members, building strong partnerships and supporting local business growth and long-term prosperity,” Tomlinson said. “Our mission is to connect businesses and community leaders, promote business friendly initiatives and create economic opportunities that enhance the quality of life across Lincoln Parish.”
Looking forward, the Chamber has plans to continue building upon the success of their 2025 initiatives, while also implementing new initiatives set in motion in 2026.
“The future of the Chamber is bright as we continue our work in workforce development, Small Business Month and expand with new initiatives like the Women’s Initiative,” Hicks said. “Elizabeth Turnley (Chamber President) and I are deeply thankful to our Board of Directors, Chamber Champions and everyone who helped to make the evening so memorable.”
The Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s Office arrested a local man last week after investigating a domestic disturbance.
Zane Ethan Miller, 44, was arrested Feb. 12 after deputies responded to Lilley Ridge Road residence in response to a 911 call regarding a man beating his girlfriend.
Deputies arrived and interviewed the caller, who witnessed the incident and the woman who was allegedly attacked. According to a deputy’s report, the woman and Miller had been together romantically off and on for 14 years. She said they had been arguing, and Miller hit her in the head and then locked himself in a back bedroom.
Deputies saw blood and redness around the woman’s right ear.
Miller was directed to exit the bedroom, and he was arrested without incident. When questioned about the incident, Miller said they argued and it “got out of hand.”
A .22 caliber rifle was found in a closet in the bedroom.
Miller was booked at the Lincoln Parish Detention Center for domestic abuse, battery, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and a warrant for failure to appear in court on a child support charge.
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.
Senior Cameron Temple scored a career-high 36 points in a win over Plain Dealing on Senior Night. (photo by Darrell James)
By Malcolm Butler
This week will be the last time senior Cameron Temple puts on the interlocked C’s of his Cedar Creek basketball jersey.
With the Cougars sitting a full point and a half behind the cutoff line for the final spot in the upcoming Select School Division IV playoffs, Creek’s remaining hoops season most likely consists of home games against Castor tonight and Downsville on Thursday.
And when it comes to wins and losses on the hardwood, it has not quite been what Cameron – the lone senior on this year’s team – had hoped or expected when the season tipped off in November.
However, it will be one he remembers. And one he is remembered for by those around him.
“Cam is one of the best teammates I have ever had,” said junior Rhett Bridges. “He is always picking one of us up when we are down. He is always there for you when you need him. I know this year has been tough on him, but he has been there every step of the way for us. He has been the leader we needed.”
Leading when you win is easy. Leading when you are 9-19 with one lone district win, well it can be more challenging.
“Leadership is often given to just talent, and there was so much talent on this team last year that I don’t think he understood the leader that he was built to be,” said first year head coach Todd Martinez. “I think Cameron started to see it this year, and he has been a tremendous leader for us from day No.1. He has accepted changes and the overhaul in the youth movement and how many guys we lost at the beginning of the year.”
After advancing to the quarterfinals last year, this year’s Cougars team looks much different due to graduations, defections, and discipline. At points of the season, the Cougars varsity boys dressed as few as seven players.
And even when fully healthy, Creek’s roster consists of only three upperclassmen with a couple of eighth graders getting meaningful minutes.
Youth movement for sure.
“There has been a lot of adversity,” said Cameron. “I believe everything happens for a reason. I have tried to embrace it all. I think it has made me a better person by staying positive, battling through tough times, and trying to be a leader for the younger guys. I do not just care about this team; I care about the future of this program. I want to leave it a better place.”
Those words best embrace who Cameron is to his coaches, teammates, family, and friends.
“He has a servant’s heart,” said Martinez. “It is not what is best for me, but what is best for the people I care about the most. That is how Cam approaches things. Even when he is disappointed, he will never come to me or to his teammates as if he is disappointed. He comes with a we-need-to-do-this-better mentality. He has a servant heart that bleeds well into his leadership.”
And although his love for the game of basketball started at an early age – he says he started playing as a youngster living in Houston before his family moved to Ruston when he was in kindergarten – the road to the hardwood has not always been easy.
After playing on the freshman team in his first year of high school, Cameron said then-head coach Lance Waldron challenged him heading into the summer of his sophomore year.
Cameron said Waldron he told him that he needed to gain weight or he may not make the varsity team. It was a challenge that he took to heart.
“As a kid who loves basketball and who loves playing for the school, I knew it was do or die,” said Cameron.
That summer he worked out every day, said he ate (or drank) 4,000 calories, and by that August, he had put on 20 pounds.
“I got a little fat, but once we started practicing, I started cutting some of that weight,” joked Cameron. “But the idea of not making the team scared me so bad. It helped instill a work ethic in me. My positivity. My discipline.”
Not only did Cameron make the team, but he also earned a starting spot for the Cougars as a sophomore. It was the start of his varsity journey, one that has seen its challenges.
After serving as a solid role player for the Cougars for the past two years, more was needed from him heading into 2025-26. And it was those expectations – some self-inflicted – that caused early-season struggles.
“Summer basketball was tough on me,” said Cameron. “I was trying to live up to the expectations of last year. I was not shooting well. I just was not myself. And it is because I thought I had to be Cannon (Robbins) or Jack (Bell). I had to be Connor (Johnson). I am supposed to be the next man up.”
Seven games into the season, Cameron had failed to score in double figures, and the Cougars simply were not jelling. That is when Cameron said he and Coach Martinez had a heart to heart.
“He really took off when he became comfortable being Cam and not trying to be what he felt others wanted him to be,” said Martinez. “I think early on there was chatter about he needs to do this or he must do that. But, that is not who he was.
“He is a pleaser, and he was trying to please a lot of folks. When he just settled down into who he was on the court, his numbers took off.
“He shoots the ball really well,” said Martinez. “He just had to get to that comfort level where he was not trying to do everything. He played within himself and focused on just being good at being him. God has a way of channeling us when we are not being true to ourselves.”
The talk hit home for Cameron.
He scored 10 points in a win over Downsville and then 19 against Quitman and 26 against West Ouachita.
“I just needed to try to be the best Cameron Temple I could be,” said Cameron. “That was not just about scoring, but more about being the best leader I could be. Once I started being myself, all the other stuff came with it.”
Cameron has posted 14 double digit scoring games down the stretch, including a career-high 36 in a win over Plain Dealing on Senior Day.
Very fitting.
While the stats improved, the wins for the Cougars did not … at least not to the point they had hoped.
As few as seven players have dressed for games at times this year. And District 1-1A competition with the likes of Lincoln Prep, Arcadia, and Ringgold is not conducive to success for an inexperienced squad.
But through it all, Cameron’s teammates have seen the same guy.
“He has been huge for us the way he has handled adversity,” said Bridges. “There have been times we have been sloppy, and we have not been ready to play. Instead of getting on to us, he simply encourages us. He tries to keep us focused and positive.”
Basketball is not Cameron’s only extracurricular activity at Cedar Creek. The son of Robbie and Virginia Temple participates in Student Council, DECA, National Honor Society, and Key Club. He is also a member of the Cougars Golf team.
The owner of a 3.84 grade point average said he is making his college decision – either Louisiana Tech or LSU – very soon.
And regardless of where he studies next, Martinez said he has made his mark for Cedar Creek.
“He will be an ambassador for Cedar Creek for the rest of his life,” said Martinez. “He will be such a good one, not only for Cedar Creek basketball, but for the entire school and community.”
In so many ways, Cameron already is.
“I want to be the guy who helps lay the foundation,” said Cameron. “I grew up watching it as an elementary school kid to playing in middle school to riding the bench to a rotational player to being a starter and now a captain. I have done it all. At every stage, Cedar Creek embraced me. This place means a lot to me.”
When the clock hits zero Thursday and Cameron goes through the post-game handshake line one last time, he can do so knowing that he has made the most of his Cedar Creek basketball experience.
And that good days are ahead.
“At the end of the day, basketball doesn’t define me,” said Cameron. “I will play four years of it, and I will be done. All the honors are cool, but that will not be my biggest accomplishment. It will be coming back in a couple of years and seeing them succeed.
“I want to be remembered as a guy who gave his all and that cared about others.”
Discover the Cedar Creek Difference at Our Preview Day
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. Join us on Wednesday, February 25th at 8:15 am for our Preview Day 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 of all ages.
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. Lower school students have daily access to PE, recess, and character development programs. We also offer Bible/STEM, music, art, drama, computer, library, and Spanish, 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.
Register Today for the First Round of Consideration!
Don’t miss this chance to see why Cedar Creek is consistently recognized as one of the premier schools in Louisiana. 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.
To register for Preview Day, email our Director of Admissions, Caty Simmons, at csimmons@cedarcreekschool.org. We look forward to welcoming you on February 25th to experience all that Cedar Creek has to offer.
Everyone who’s met me knows that I have little bit of an obsession with Mardi Gras.
When I moved to Louisiana, I discovered that the perception I had built up of the bayou state, based on shows like Duck Dynasty and the movie The Princess and the Frog, was actually pretty accurate. I was surprised to find out that people in the South really boiled crawfish every year, cooked big pots of gumbo, and had at least once seen a gator in the wild. I almost instantly fell in love with Louisiana life and decided in the 8th grade that I wanted to spend the rest of my life here.
The aspect of Louisiana culture I was most excited to take part in was Mardi Gras season. Something I had only seen on TV before, over-the-top floats with costumed people tossing beads and other eccentric throws into the crowd. I absolutely love when Christmas ends and instead of a post-holiday slump, we parade straight into the most festive time of the year. There is no gray stretch in Louisiana. All throughout the year we party, from parades to festivals, there’s always something to celebrate.
I grew up thinking that Mardi Gras was primarily celebrated in New Orleans, as a singular event. But the carnival season turns every street into a moving party where everyone is invited. I love seeing the boutiques in Ruston decorated in purple, green and gold. Each restaurant and coffee shop offers a special dessert or drink for the season. Don’t’ even get me started on the King Cake. The local bakeries near my house trade out the cupcakes for King Cakes of every flavor. I make it a goal to try as many kinds as possible each year.
I think part of the reason I love Mardi Gras so much is that I didn’t have it as a kid, and so it’s a little more unique to me than the other holidays. Mardi Gras brings out a sense of pride from people for their Louisiana culture. Each person, big parade goers or casual collectors, has a stash of special beads and throws somewhere around their house that they just can’t let go of. And whether you’re a fan of jazz or not, dancing in the streets is basically a requirement when the marching bands come through. There is something so special about the blending of so many cultures to create a holiday expressing joy and tradition.
So, when I walk through Downtown Ruston, smelling the aroma of Cajun cooking drifting down the street or see the sequined and feathered jackets on the racks outside of the boutiques, I smile. I delight in knowing that my state and my town have a not-so-secret celebration that we only share with each other. A loud, bright and glittery season where everyone wears the heart of Louisiana on our sleeves.
The Union Parish Sheriff’s Office has arrested a Marion man following a lengthy narcotics investigation conducted by agents with the Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Division.
On February 5, 2026, deputies located and arrested John Roman Womble, 36, of Marion, in connection with multiple outstanding arrest warrants. The warrants stem from separate investigations in 2025 involving the distribution of illegal controlled dangerous substances within Union Parish. The narcotics Womble is accused of dealing include marijuana, alprazolam, and fentanyl. He was also taken into custody on additional failure to appear warrants related to prior narcotics and traffic offenses.
Womble was arrested without incident and booked into the Union Parish Detention Center on the following charges:
Distribution of Schedule I Narcotics (Marijuana) Distribution of Schedule II Narcotics (Fentanyl) – 3 cts. Distribution of Schedule IV Narcotics (Alprazolam) Possession with Intent to Distribute Schedule I Narcotics (Marijuana) Failure to Appear, Reckless Operation Failure to Appear, Possession of Schedule II Narcotics Failure to Appear, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Womble’s bond was set by a Third District judge at $520,000.
RUSTON, La. — Ruston High (3-2) took a 5-4 win over Captain Shreve Monday night at J.C. Love Field on the campus of Louisiana Tech after getting four runs in the bottom of the third and the go-ahead run in the bottom of the sixth.
“I’m really proud of our kids and their response after dropping the double-header last weekend to Haughton,” Ruston High Head Coach Bryan Beck said. “They battled through some weights on Saturday and a really long practice on Sunday. We needed to clean some things up, and we challenged our kids to play better baseball and represent our school better. They came out and did that tonight.”
After the Gators took a 3-0 lead going into the bottom of the third inning, senior Jackson Lee hit one of his two doubles on the night and brought home both senior Kenden Freeman and junior Hunter Soto to cut the lead to 3-2 with one out.
Junior JP Moak then singled on a line drive to right field and advanced Lee to third base, where a single by senior Nolan Parnell brought both Lee and Moak home to give Ruston its first lead of the night at 4-3.
After a scoreless fourth inning for both teams, the Gators tied the game 4-4 in the top of the fifth inning. Ruston’s Lee would get his second double of the night, however, in the bottom of the sixth inning on a liner to center field to score senior Michael Brisco for the go-ahead run and the 5-4 lead.
Sophomore Hudson Wilkerson got the start and pitched 3.1 innings and struck out six batters. Junior Sam Hartwell finished the remainder and threw 3.2 innings and struck out one batter.
“(Wilkerson) is a really good young arm for us and is going to be good for us in the coming years,” Beck said. “He worked through a little traffic early, and we were patient with him. And (Hartwell), we have really been ramping him up as a back end bullpen guy for us to come in and close the door. We wanted to make sure his arm is okay after football season and that he’s where he needs to be to serve our team. He’s an incredible competitor — that’s what we expect from him and what he expects from himself.
“Our pitchers have done a phenomenal job this year and I can’t say enough about those guys.”
In total, the Bearcats finished with nine hits and were led by Lee with three hits and three runs batted in. Both Moak and Soto finished with two hits apiece, while Parnell finished with two RBI on the night.
“We had some timely hits tonight,” Beck said. “Jackson Lee had some big-time bats for us to break the game open for us. Moak had some big hits, and Soto got his first start at DH for us this season tonight. Ultimately, it was an all-round team victory against a really good Captain Shreve opponent. They’re going to win a bunch of games this year, and we were fortunate to squeak out a victory. We’ll take it.”
The Bearcats will return to action this weekend and host the Trey Altick Classic from Thursday through Saturday.
“It doesn’t get any easier for us (this weekend),” Beck said. “We’ll enjoy tonight, but we’ll have to get back to work.”
Kade Luker struck out 11 batters in five innings Monday night. (Photo by Darrell James)
by Malcolm Butler
When Cedar Creek junior southpaw Kade Luker is on the bump, he usually doesn’t need much offensive support to get the job done.
So Monday night playing under the lights at JC Love Field at Pat Patterson Park, what Luker got — and helped contribute to — offensively was an embarrassment of riches.
Cedar Creek (3-1) sent 15 batters to the plate in the bottom of the first as the first 11 reached igniting an 11-run first inning as the Cougars pummeled the Cavaliers (2-1) by the score of 12-0 in a run-rule shortened victory.
The win avenged an 11-0 loss to Calvary Baptist less than a week ago.
“I think tonight our guys were fired up about the venue, being able to come over here and play at Louisiana Tech,” said Cedar Creek head coach Chad Yates. “There were a lot of folks here. I think there were a lot of Ruston fans that stuck around after their game and wanted to see Luker on the bump.
“When he takes the mound, we feel like we are the best team in the state.”
After retiring Calvary Baptist in order in the top of the first inning, Luker started the offensive onslaught against Cavalier starter Grayson Powell with an opposite field single to left field. It was the first of 11 straight base runners for Creek, that included eight hits, two errors, and a fielders choice.
Before Calvary Baptist could blink, the Cavaliers trailed by double figures.
“What a first inning,” said Yates. “Each guy came up and did his part. We were aggressive and had great energy. I think we still had a (bad) taste left in our mouth from last Thursday. Our guys wanted to get back on track.”
The Cougars 11-run first inning included run scoring hits by Ryan Coleman (RBI single), Cason Floyd (RBI single), Noah Smith (3-run triple), and Connor Yates (RBI single) as well as RBIs by Micah Taylor (bases loaded walk), Eli Slocum (RBI grounder to second base), and Brett Bell (RBI groundout to shortstop).
Calvary Baptist made the first of two pitching changes just eight batters into the contest.
“Our response (to last week’s loss) started at practice,” said Luker. “Taking good BP and good ground balls, and just coming out here and competing tonight. We had a good thing going on the mound, and then everyone showed up inning (offensively) which was really good. It was good seeing us barrelling balls up and hitting them hard.”
And with the way Luker was dealing on the mound, the Cavaliers had zero chance of recovering. The LSU commit threw 5.0 scoreless innings, while striking out 11 batters. He allowed only two base runners — a single to right field and a HBP, both coming in the top of the second inning.
He retired the final 10 batters he faced.
“I felt good tonight,” said Luker. “My two seam was working good. And I paired that with a change up. My change up was really good tonight. Being able to throw my curve ball … I got a couple of strikeouts with that which was good. It was a good confidence booster.
“I think the change up was the biggest thing. It was what I worked on in the off-season; getting more depth on the change up. That was a big part (of my success) tonight.”
With Creek already leading 11-0, Luker ripped a triple over the left fielders head in the bottom of the second inning — his third hit of the night — to score Slocum, who had singled with two outs in the frame.
“When you have your seven, eight and nine-hole hitters turning the lineup over like they do … ,” said Yates. “Smith has been blistering the baseball. Taylor turns it. Slocum is a good nine-hole hitter for us. I think we have extra base hits all throughout this lineup.”
Cedar Creek will be at home this Friday and Saturday when they face Riverside and Opelousas Catholic as part of the Trey Altick Tournament.
Sometimes all it takes to shake us out of our routineness is just a change of scenery. I guess that’s why vacations were invented.
But, really, we don’t have to wait for a vacation to give ourselves a little nudge to think a little differently, look a little deeper and feel more passionately. Sometimes it happens when we just step slightly outside our regularly scheduled programming.
That happened for me Friday night when my chorus mate Rachel Grider – a top-notch soprano who sings tenor in Southern A’Chord – presented a solo performance at the Lincoln Parish Museum. On Valentine’s Eve, she mixed it up with sacred selections, “His Eye Is on the Sparrow,” the “Trolley Song” from the movie “Meet Me in St. Louis,” and other choices that provided just the right touch of variety.
I was surprised because I thought we might have been in for a night of mostly Bach, Mozart and other classical composers. Not that there’s anything wrong with that, and I was pleased to hear a portion of Handel’s “Messiah.”
But, again, I was surprised to hear a song that I had been hearing and singing all my life, starting in the little country church from my childhood in Rocky Branch – “Jesus Is Calling.” We always used it as an invitation song. You know, the song after the sermon when people walk down front to get themselves right with God. I’m ashamed to say that I never thought about it in depth and never put it anywhere near the top of my list of favorite gospel songs.
That’s not true for Rachel. She absolutely adores that song, and that became crystal clear during her introduction to it. She herself spoke softly and tenderly about its words – about Jesus’s calling to us so gently, yet so fervently. And she delivered it with that same emotion.
I’ll never look at that song the same again. I hope we sing it soon – and often – in our worship services. Not just for the invitation song, but for a song that speaks of something for our everyday lives. Listen to the first and last verse and the chorus.
Jesus is tenderly calling you home, calling today, calling today. Why from the sunshine of love will you roam farther and farther away?
Jesus is pleading; O list to His voice; hear Him today, hear Him today. They who believe on His name shall rejoice; quickly arise and away.
Calling today, calling today, Jesus is calling, is tenderly calling today.
Now, I want to pay more attention to the words in every single song that we sing in our worship services. (Yes, I know. I should have been doing that anyway, but I want to make a more concerted effort). I also want to go over all the spiritually based songs we sing in our chorus – “In the Garden,” “It Is Well With My Soul” and a medley that includes “How Great Thou Art,” “I’ll Fly Away” and “When the Roll is Called up Yonder.”
I want to milk those words dry. Of course, I have to be careful in chorus so that I don’t become too emotional – because that will make my voice waver. But I think it’s worth the chance.
I’m wondering: What are your favorite “church songs”? I would love to know. I’d also love to know why you love them. The ones I’ve mentioned are classic, old-time Christian hymns, but many new praise and worship songs are very meaningful as well.
Want to guess what some of the others might be besides the ones I’ve mentioned? I think we can all put our money on “Amazing Grace.”
Whatever the case, whether it’s “O Happy Day” or another hymn you’ve sung a hundred times, this week may be a good time to listen again.
Somewhere in those familiar words is something waiting to be heard.
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Sallie Rose Hollis lives in Ruston and retired from Louisiana Tech as an associate professor of journalism and the assistant director of the News Bureau. She can be contacted at sallierose@mail.com.
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No. 4 Cedar Creek (20-9) will have a first round bye after earning the No. 4 seed. The Lady Cougars will face the winner of No. 13 Opelousas Catholic vs. No. 20 St. Frederick in the second round. The contest will be Monday (Feb. 23) at 6 p.m. at The Brickhouse. A potential quarterfinal match-up against No. 5 seed Edmund would also be played in Ruston. Creek is coming off a state championship game run last year and hopes to make another run this year.
Non-Select School Division I
No. 14 Ruston High has a familiar District 2-5A foe for the the Lady Bearcats as they finished the regular season 12-7 overall and will host the No. 19 Lady Lions of Ouachita Parish High School Thursday, Feb. 19 at 6 pm. Ruston fell to the Lions 50-38 earlier on the road during the regular season in district play, and a follow-up matchup was cancelled last week.
Class B
No. 8 Choudrant (24-7) earned a first round bye after a successful regular season that saw the Lady Aggies win their district title. Choudrant will face No. 9 Anacoco (17-14) Monday at 6 pm in the second round game that will be played at CHS Gymasium. The winner of that contest will travel to face No. 1 seed Bell City (23-2).
Class B
No. 19 Simsboro (8-16) won’t have far to travel as they will face No. 14 seed Weston (18-11) Thursday, Feb. 19, at 5:30 pm. The two teams met in late January with Weston defeating Simsboro 56-52. The winner of this contest will then travel to face No. 3 Fairview (25-9).
