The Lincoln Parish Police Jury has set a special meeting for today at 4 p.m. in the Police Jury Meeting Room on the third floor of the courthouse. It is open to the public.

When you hear ‘Peach Festival’, you may picture baskets of fuzzy peaches, maybe a peach cobbler bake-off, or even a parade. But here in Ruston, the Louisiana Peach Festival is so much more than just a celebration of our locally grown fruit. It is a time to experience the rich tradition and culture that can only be found in our small historic town. Residents and visitors alike come for this special day, filled with activities that keep people coming back year to year. This year’s Peach Festival in Ruston is Saturday, June 6.

Here are 5 ways that the Peach Festival exceeds just peach appreciation (although, we love our peaches too):

1. A Love Letter to Louisiana Culture

Area artists, vendors, musicians, and makers are the forefront of what makes this festival thrive. Browsing our curated arts market with 90+ artists of all mediums allows you to get a glimpse into the vibrant arts of our state. And you can’t miss the music! Louisiana-based musicians play on the Railroad Park Stage to ensure the spirit of the festival carries on into the night. Celebrate our Louisiana roots with us, and dive into what makes our culture so unique.

2. The Food Scene Goes Full Peach (In the Best Way Possible)

Here in Ruston, we pride ourselves on the quality and diversity of our local restaurants and food trucks. The creativity of Ruston’s culinary scene is unmatched, and the sweet peach flavor is no exception. In the week leading up to the festival, 30+ local restaurants come together for the Peach Culinary Crawl, featuring unexpected dishes, drinks, and pairings. From a peach caprese turkey melt to a pint of locally-brewed peach wheat ale, indulge your tastebuds with this staple, seasonal ingredient.

3. It Still Holds Tight to Its Sweet Southern Traditions

Of course, it would not be a southern festival without all of the classic contests and exhibits. The Peach Pageant, Peach Parade, Antique Car Show, Peach Rodeo, Peach Art Exhibit, and Cookery Contest are all ways that the community engages with the roots of the festival. These fun traditions have been happening for generations, and plan to stay for many, many more. The Ruston community continues to add to these celebrations, with sidewalk sales, a 5K race, and even a Pickleball Tournament. All these traditions keep the festival feeling like a small town gathering, keeping it close to the hearts of our residents and visitors.

4. It’s One of the Few Festivals Where You Don’t Feel Nickel-and-Dimed

The Peach Festival prides itself on having free admission, making it accessible for a Saturday full of activities. In Kids Alley, there are no paid vendors, allowing all kiddos to enjoy hands-on crafts, games, entertainment, and more festival activities. It is the perfect opportunity to bring the family out for fun that won’t break the bank. Our goal is to make the festival easy and accessible for all ages to enjoy!

5. It Feels More Like a Community Gathering Than a Carnival

No flashy rides or ferris wheels here – the Peach Festival provides something even more memorable. Surrounded by the painted murals of downtown, local organizations, and all the friendly volunteers, it’s easy to feel like a part of the Ruston community that we know and love. With festivities happening from morning to late into the night, you have plenty of time to experience the festival at your own pace. So bring out your lawn chair, grab a bite, listen to the music, and enjoy all the sights and sounds of our community. 

The traditions, culture, and hospitality surrounding this celebration reminds us that this isn’t just a festival, but a signature kind of Southern experience you don’t find everywhere. The peach flavor is just the tip of the iceberg to all of the sweetness of peach season in Ruston, LA. 

For more information on the 76th Annual Louisiana Peach Festival and to see the full schedule of events, visit www.lapeachfest.com/. 

This is a paid advertorial 

Courtesy of Louisiana State Police

Troopers have continued to investigate the crash that claimed the life of 26-year-old Tayvionne Tate of Jonesboro. As part of the ongoing investigation, it was determined that 26-year-old Janihajious Phillips was impaired at the time of the crash.

On Tuesday, July 15, 2025, Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop F obtained an arrest warrant through the 2nd Judicial District Court for vehicular homicide, vehicular negligent injuring, and numerous other charges relating to the crash.

Phillips, who was severely injured during the crash, underwent extensive medical treatment and a prolonged recovery period before being released recently.

On Wednesday, May 27, 2026, Phillips surrendered to LSP Monroe Field Office Detectives and LSP Troop F Troopers. He was taken into custody and processed into the Jackson Parish Detention Center without incident.

This investigation remains active and ongoing, and no further information is available at this time.

TROOP F ORIGINAL NEWS RELEASE

May 11, 2025

Two Injured and One Killed in Fatal Jackson Parish Crash

Vernon – On Sunday, May 11, 2025, shortly before 12:00 p.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop F began investigating a two-vehicle crash on Riser Road just north of LA Highway 148. The crash claimed the life of 26-year-old Tayvionne Tate of Jonesboro.  

The preliminary investigation revealed that a 2015 Chevrolet Malibu, driven by 25-year-old Janihajious Phillips, was traveling north on Riser Road. At the same time, a 2024 Nissan Versa was traveling south on Riser Road. For reasons still under investigation, Phillips veered left, crossed over the center line, and struck the Nissan head-on in the southbound lane of Riser Road.

Tate, who was the front seat passenger in the Malibu and unrestrained, suffered fatal injuries and died at the scene. Phillips, who was unrestrained, received serious injuries and was transported to an area hospital. The driver of the Nissan, who was properly restrained, received serious injuries and was transported to an area hospital. Impairment is a suspected factor in this crash. Routine toxicology samples were collected and will be submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation. 

Louisiana State Police would like to remind all motorists that impaired driving and failure to wear a seatbelt can have deadly consequences. If you feel differently, you drive differently. Alcohol, prescription medications, and other drugs can impair your ability to safely operate a vehicle by affecting vision, judgment, coordination, and reaction time. In addition, choosing not to wear a seatbelt greatly increases the risk of serious injury or death in a crash. Motorists are urged to make responsible decisions. Always drive sober, always buckle up, and always plan ahead.

Are you willing to give up the comfort of average for something better? 

When average business results no longer are enough, average performance is no longer appealing, or an average life is no longer desirable, we are left with a choice. 

The choice comes down to a question: Do I need to try harder or try “different”? 

Many will tell us to work harder, press on, and keep pushing until things get better.  TRY HARDER is the mantra! 

However, from what I have experienced over the years, trying harder is not the issue.  I seldom lacked effort in anything I was pursuing, but results didn’t always equate to the effort.  I didn’t need to work harder, but I did need different results.   

Whether it’s your business organization, team, or you personally, I suspect that often that’s the case with you as well.  You don’t need to try harder, care more, or work longer hours. 

The key to generating different results for us may be a different strategy, approach, or plan.  It could be a different perspective, a change in personnel, or a new process.  The key is finding the “right different”.  Doing the same thing repeatedly and expecting better results, well, we know how that story ends.   

While I stress focusing on inputs and not outcomes, we can’t ignore the results.  If our current input focus is not leading to the results we need, we might need a change.  

If our business results are not what we need, we need to consider change.  If our team is not winning at the level we desire, we need to consider change.  If our life is not fulfilling, maybe we need to consider a change. 

The sad fact is that many will accept average because they don’t want to change.  Maybe it’s a strong conviction to our current plan or approach that keeps us from considering change.  It could be that average is tolerable and comfortable for now, but that feeling may not last. 

In John 10:10 Jesus says that he came that we might have life and have it abundantly.  He didn’t say that we might live an average life.  He didn’t promise ease and comfort, but he said life and an abundant life.  When I read that verse, I hear fulfillment, joy, and peace during challenging times.    

Here is a thought progression for you to consider for your organization, team, or even individually: 

• Are you willing to seek more than a comfortably average outcome or life? 
• Are you willing to embrace change, embrace some risk, and seek better? 
• Are you willing to hold fast to your convictions and standards, but be open to new methods and ideas? 
• Are you willing to make changes to old plans, existing processes, and even people in positions to move forward? 

I have found it much easier to take something broken and make it better than take something that is comfortably average and make it great.  Going from average to great means walking away from some “good things” to seek “better things”.  

If you are searching for better, your key may be “different”, not “trying harder”! 

Doug equips leaders to make organizations better.  He has two 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 

On Tuesday, May 26, 2026, shortly after 5:00 p.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop F began investigating a two-vehicle fatal crash on Louisiana Highway 17 south of Forest Cemetery Road. The crash claimed the life of 11-year-old Bracen Hagood of Pioneer.

The initial investigation revealed that a 2017 Toyota Tacoma was traveling south on Louisiana Highway 17. At the same time, a 1999 Chevrolet Silverado was traveling north on Louisiana Highway 17. For reasons still under investigation, the Toyota crossed over the centerline and struck the Chevrolet head-on in the southbound lane of Louisiana Highway 17. 

Hagood, who was the front-seat passenger in the Toyota, was unrestrained and seriously injured. He was transported to an area hospital for treatment. The driver of the Toyota, who was unrestrained, was also transported to an area hospital for serious injuries. The driver of the Chevrolet, who was properly restrained, received minor injuries. Although impairment is not suspected, routine toxicology samples were collected and will be submitted for analysis.

On Tuesday, May 26, 2026, shortly after 11:00 p.m., Troopers learned that Hagood succumbed to his injuries and died. This crash remains under investigation.

Children should remain in properly fitted and installed child safety seats and booster seats until they are nine or have outgrown the height or weight limits of a child restraint system. Additionally, children under 13 should remain seated in the rear seat whenever possible, as required by Louisiana law and because it provides greater protection in a crash. For more information regarding Louisiana child passenger restraint system laws, recommendations, and to find the nearest Child Safety Fitting Station, please visit www.lahighwaysafety.org.

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

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Each Monday through Friday, the Lincoln Parish Journal will post a list of non-for-profit upcoming events happening in the parish. If you would like to add your event to this list or advertise your for-profit events, please email us at lpjnewsla@gmail.com. 

Thursday, May 28
11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Kiwanis Club lunch and program (Trinity Methodist Church fellowship hall)
6 p.m.: Southern A’Chord Chorus rehearsal (Presbyterian Church fellowship hall, 212 N. Bonner St.; open to all women singers)
6 p.m.: Tween Time : Rat Maze Activity (Lincoln Parish Library)
6 p.m.: Teen Time :  Play Card Baskets (Lincoln Parish Library)

Saturday, May 30
9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Farmers Market
2-4 p.m. Summer Reading Kickoff with Snake ID, Dat Does the Trick balloons, and Kona Ice (Lincoln Parish Library Events Center)

Monday, June 1
Louisiana Peach Festival events
11:30 a.m.: Lunch on Us (Presbyterian Church, 212 North Bonner Street., Ruston) — everyone welcome
5:30 p.m.: Ruston City Council meeting (Ruston City Hall)
6 p.m.: Toastmasters International meeting (Louisiana Center for the Blind, 101 South Trenton Street)
6-9 p.m.: Creative Meetups (Creatives at Work, 301 N. Trenton)

Tuesday, June 2
Louisiana Peach Festival events
6:30 a.m.: Veterans free breakfast (VFW Post 3615, 206 Memorial Dr.)
10 a.m.: Ribbon cutting for All Hours Fitness (1506 Commerce St.)
10 a.m.: Dixie Theatre Summer Movie Series: Trolls
6 p.m.: Lincoln Parish School Board meeting (410 S. Farmerville St., Ruston)

Wednesday, June 3
Louisiana Peach Festival events
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, June 4
Louisiana Peach Festival events
11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Kiwanis Club lunch and program (Trinity Methodist Church fellowship hall)
6 p.m.: Southern A’Chord Chorus rehearsal (Presbyterian Church fellowship hall, 212 N. Bonner St.; open to all women singers)

Friday, June 5
Louisiana Peach Festival events
6 p.m.: Peach Festival Parade

Saturday, June 6
Louisiana Peach Festival events
9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Farmers Market

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

In conjunction with the Sun Belt Conference, Louisiana Tech announced kickoff times and TV coverage for its first three games of the 2026 season.

The Bulldogs will open the season with back-to-back night games, beginning Saturday, Sept. 5, against Northwestern State at Origin Bank Field at Joe Aillet Stadium. Kickoff is set for 6:30 p.m., and the game will air on ESPN+. LA Tech then travels to Baton Rouge to face LSU on Sept. 12 at 6:30 p.m. on SEC Network Plus.

Tech will face Baylor on ESPNU at 3:00 p.m. Sept. 19 in Waco, Texas.

In addition, it was announced that LA Tech’s home contest against Arkansas State will be played Saturday, Nov. 21, giving the Bulldogs six home Saturday contests this season.

All other SBC games will fall into the traditional 12-day selection process for kickoff times and networks.

Anne Baker Heard was born on March 18, 1929, to Gertrude and Guy Baker.  She passed away peacefully on May 25, 2026.

Anne attended Eastland Elementary, Ruston High School and Louisiana Tech.  She was married to George T. Heard, and they had four children.  Anne worked at the Marbury Insurance Company for many years and later for Commercial Union until she retired in 1988.  Shortly after retirement she bought an RV and headed west.  Eventually she became a “snow bird” and spent her summers in Oregon and her winters in Arizona.  In 2000 she “hung up her wheels” and settled in Quitman to be near her daughter. 

Anne enjoyed reading, working the NYT word puzzles, and quilting.  She loved Jesus and enjoyed sharing this love with her church family at Siloam Springs Community Church of Jonesboro.

Anne was preceded in death by her parents, husband, sons Gary Heard and Chris Heard, and sister and brother-in-law Lucille and Hale Walker.

She is survived by her daughter Paula Pardue (Kenneth “Case”), son Dennis Heard, niece Rebecca Laschinger (David), nephew Lee Walker (Deedie), granddaughter Lelah Foster, daughter-in-law Susan Heard,many beloved cousins, and childhood friend Hazel “Liz” Bourland.

A visitation/reception with the family will be held on Friday, June 12 at  Douglas Community Church from 4:00 pm until 6:00 pm.  A memorial service will be held on Saturday, June 13 at 1:00 pm at Siloam Springs Community Church in Jonesboro.

The family would like to thank Allegiance Hospice staff members and the administration and staff  at Forest Haven Nursing Home for their support and loving care of Anne and her family.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that memorials be made to Siloam Springs Community Church, 4Paws, or a Christian organization of choice.

Allie Virginia Bolds McNeal 
Wednesday 04/17/1935 –Friday 05/08/2026  
Memorial Service: Saturday 05/30/2026 11:00am, Travelers Rest Baptist Church, 409 Congo Street, Jonesboro 
Private Burial  

Carolyn Ruth Byrd Barnes  
December 2, 1939 – May 18, 2026  
Visitation: Friday, May 22, 2026, 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM, Owens Memorial Chapel  
Funeral Service: Friday, May 22, 2026, 10:00 AM, Owens Memorial Chapel  

Dianne Wilson   
Tuesday 11/08/1949 — Friday 05/15/2026    
Visitation: Friday 05/22/2026 3:00pm to 6:00pm at King’s Funeral Home   
Celebration of Life: Saturday 05/23/2026 11:00am, Pleasant Grove Baptist Church, 446 Bowden Road, Ruston (Clay)   
Interment: Saturday 05/23/2026, Pleasant Grove Cemetery, 446 Bowden Road, Ruston (Clay)    

William (Billy) Rich    
September 28, 1942  –  May 18, 2026    
Visitation: Saturday, May 23, 2026, 1:00PM – 2:00PM, Temple Baptist Church Chapel, 1515 South Service Rd West, Ruston    
Service: Saturday, May 23, 2026, 2:00PM, Temple Baptist Church Chapel, 1515 South Service Rd West, Ruston    
Final Resting Place: Lisbon Methodist Cemetery     

by Wesley Harris

This year’s Louisiana Peach Festival will be without its namesake Ruston peaches after a March freeze devastated the crop at Mitcham Farms.

Joe Mitcham, owner of Mitcham Farms, said temperatures dropped to 22 degrees on March 16, destroying nearly all of the farm’s peach crop.

“We may have a peach or two, but not enough to justify the work to process them,” Mitcham said.

By the time the freeze struck, the trees had already flowered and the developing fruit had grown to about the size of a pinky fingernail, he said.

“At that size, they are very tender and can’t take a freeze,” Mitcham said.

Mitcham Farms operates the only commercial peach orchard remaining in Lincoln Parish. Mitcham said a couple of smaller orchards in Ouachita Parish suffered a similar fate.

To help meet demand as the Louisiana Peach Festival approaches, Mitcham received a shipment of peaches from South Carolina Tuesday morning. He said he hopes to bring in enough out-of-state peaches to supply customers during the festival and throughout the summer, depending on price and availability.

“Growers lost their crops all across the South,” Mitcham said. “So they’re very expensive when you can find them.”

A total loss of a season’s peach crop is rare, but not unprecedented in Lincoln Parish, where the peach industry took root in the 1950s. Mitcham said the last time his orchard lost its crop to a freeze was 30 years ago in 1996.

Weather is only one challenge facing the orchard operation, which J. E. “Ed” Mitcham, Sr. and wife Marzee, Joe’s parents, began nearly 80 years ago.

Oak root rot, a fungus in the soil, has been killing peach trees by the hundreds, Mitcham said. An industry once boasting over 1,000 acres of trees in Lincoln Parish is now down to the eight acres Mitcham maintains.   

“I lost 280 trees last year to the fungus,” he said. “There’s probably 100 more dead trees in the orchard right now.”

Despite the crop loss, Mitcham said the orchard and farm store will remain open this summer, selling shipped-in peaches when available, along with peach products including jams, jellies, salsa, and other products, as well as their popular soft-serve peach ice cream made on site.

The farm store on Mitcham Orchard Road will operate from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, depending on demand. 

Courtesy of LA Tech University Communications

Casey Henry, a recent Louisiana Tech University MBA graduate, was selected to present his original research at the Allied Social Science Associations (ASSA) conference, the largest gathering of economists and social scientists in the world.

Hosted annually, the ASSA conference brings together leading scholars, researchers, policymakers, and practitioners from across the globe. Henry was selected to present through a highly competitive process administered by Omicron Delta Epsilon (ODE), the international honor society for economics.

“Dubbed ‘the Superbowl of Economic Conferences’ by my chaperone and ODE advisor Dr. Ogbonnaya Nwoha, representing Louisiana Tech and the College of Business at such a prestigious conference was both an honor and an invaluable professional experience,” said Henry.

The selection process included submission of a research abstract for consideration in the ODE Graduate Student Session. Then, selected participants were required to submit a full-length research paper for review by an ODE Award Selection Committee composed of faculty economists and academic leaders from around the world.

Henry’s research explores the cords that bind productivity, inequality, and economic growth in developed countries.

“Specifically, I examine how productivity dynamics interact with income distribution and long-term growth trajectories, and how imbalances among these forces can shape economic outcomes across advanced economies,” said Henry. “The research seeks to address not only whether growth occurs, but how it occurs and who ultimately benefits from it.”

Notably, Henry’s work stood out among a field largely composed of doctoral-level research.

“While most of the research presented in the ODE Graduate Student Session was drawn directly from doctoral dissertations, my paper was not dissertation-based,” Henry said. “Being included alongside dissertation-level research from institutions around the world affirmed the rigor, originality, and relevance of my work.”

The opportunity reflects the College of Business’ continued emphasis on both experiential learning and faculty-supported research like the annual Research Forum and Regional Economic Analysis of Louisiana (REAL) Report.

“Dr. Nwoha’s guidance and support were instrumental in my participation at ASSA,” said Henry. “His mentorship exemplifies the College’s commitment to strong faculty-student research collaboration. I am also grateful to Anna Griffin, past ODE president, whose encouragement motivated me to join ODE, submit my research for consideration, and ultimately participate in the ASSA conference.”

Henry also noted that Dr. Patrick Scott, associate professor of economics and director of the Center for Economic Research, played a foundational role in starting economic research. Scott served as an academic advisor throughout the endeavor.

“Presenting at ASSA, engaging in scholarly dialogue, and receiving feedback from economists actively contributing to the field was invaluable,” Henry said. “The experience strengthened my confidence as a researcher and reinforced that my work is competitive, meaningful, and worthy of continued development. ASSA was a reminder that progress in research is measured not only by awards, but by intellectual engagement, resilience, and the willingness to contribute to global scholarly conversations.”

A Ruston man was arrested for DWI last week following a Louisiana State Police traffic stop.

Matthew Tyler Reichert, 35, was taken into custody at about 11:55 p.m. on May 20 after a trooper observed a gray Chevrolet Silverado traveling northbound on U.S. 167. The vehicle crossed the outside lane fog line multiple times, according to the arrest report.

Reichert pulled into a parking lot after emergency lights were activated. He exited the vehicle and was met by the trooper, who reported detecting the odor of alcohol coming from his breath and person. The report states Reichert had slurred speech, bloodshot and glossy eyes, and was swaying as he stood.

According to the report, Reichert initially stated he had not consumed alcohol because he had been in possession of his son earlier in the day, but later admitted to drinking after 2:00 p.m. and driving in the area to “blow off steam.”

The report states Reichert attempted field sobriety testing but said he was unable to complete portions due to previous injuries. He later consented to breath testing at the Lincoln Parish Detention Center. Offered two opportunities to provide a breath sample, Reichert refused to do so. When asked to submit to a test by blood sample, he refused. A search warrant was acquired to obtain a blood sample for analysis at the crime lab.

A criminal history check referenced in the report indicated prior DWI arrests in 2016 and 2021.

Reichert was booked for DWI-second offense and improper lane use.

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.

Courtesy of the North Louisiana Master Gardeners

The newly renamed and expanded “Hoogland Tree Trail” officially opened Tuesday morning at Lincoln Parish Park, marking the culmination of a community-wide effort led by the North Central Louisiana Master Gardeners.

Members of the family of the late Fredric Lee Hoogland joined Lincoln Parish Park Manager Al Young and representatives from multiple organizations during the dedication ceremony held May 26.

North Central Louisiana Master Gardeners President Claire Carroll honored Hoogland during the ceremony by quoting longtime outdoor writer Glynn Harris.

“Harris remembers your dad as ‘a visionary in the truest sense,’” Carroll told the family. “Fredric Lee Hoogland was the founder of one of the most popular attractions not only for Lincoln Parish, but for the surrounding area. Hoogland located, promoted and worked for the parish to purchase the area that would become Lincoln Parish Park.”

Carroll said the original tree trail was created in 2015 by Master Gardeners and initially featured 20 identified and tagged trees.

She noted that the project, like many parish beautification efforts undertaken by the organization, is funded and maintained through proceeds from the annual North Central Louisiana Master Gardeners plant sale held each April in Ruston.

Tree Trail Committee Chair Dora Ann Hatch recognized the numerous community partners who contributed to the expanded trail project, including Young and retired park manager James Ramsaur.

“We were always greeted warmly, and help was provided when we needed it,” Hatch said.

Hatch said the trail rejuvenation effort began in 2025 with the original goal of simply replacing signs on the existing 20 trees. However, the project evolved after retired LSU AgCenter forestry agent Ricky Kilpatrick walked the trail with committee members.

Following those walks, the committee decided to expand the trail by identifying and tagging additional trees throughout the park. LSU AgCenter agents Valerie West and Kyleigh Bass also assisted with tree identification efforts.

Dr. Joshua Adams, professor in the School of Agricultural Sciences and Forestry at Louisiana Tech University, and several of his students later joined the project during its final identification phase.

“The more time we spent in the forest, the more we learned about what park-goers enjoy,” Hatch said. “The committee realized that families use the park, so we revised our goal to make the tree trail a family-friendly nature experience.”

Each tagged tree now includes both scientific and common names along with a QR code linking visitors to additional information about the species.

The QR codes were created by Lincoln Parish GIS District employee Jackson Matthews, while GIS staff member Ethan Duck developed a detailed map identifying the location of each tagged tree along the trail. The map is displayed on a sign near the trailhead entrance.

Information linked through the QR codes was modeled after a format used by the Friends of the Louisiana State Arboretum. Jim Robinson, representing the organization, granted permission for the format’s use, while Louisiana Tech forestry students compiled research and information for each tree.

The trailhead sign honoring Hoogland was designed by Louisiana Tech’s School of Design and VISTA Director Tom Futrell along with student artist Mags Cassuto. The pair also created the trail mascot, “Nutty,” an acorn character designed to guide families through the trail and encourage interactive activities such as scavenger hunts.

“This project represents the best of what a community can do when everyone devotes their time and talents to a project,” Hatch said. “We are so grateful for all of our trail partners and for the North Central Louisiana Master Gardeners who spent one and a half years walking the trail, tying ribbons, posting signs and raising funds to make the trail a family-friendly experience.”

Following the ceremony, Hatch encouraged visitors to experience the natural beauty Hoogland envisioned decades ago.

The Louisiana Master Gardener Program is a volunteer development program offered through the LSU AgCenter. Locally, the program is facilitated by Bass, LSU AgCenter assistant county agent.

The biggest, most star-studded and fun-filled party of every summer for miles around is coming your way in a month.

Three days of festivities are approaching beginning Thursday, June 25 through Saturday, June 27 for the 2026 Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Induction Celebration in Natchitoches.

The LSHOF’s Class of 2026 will be enshrined Saturday night, June 27 at the Natchitoches Events Center to culminate the 67^th Induction Celebration.

The Induction Celebration will kick off Thursday, June 25, with the Welcome Reception from 5-7 p.m., free to the public at the Hall of Fame museum at 800 Front Street.

The Friday, June 26 schedule begins with the Celebrity Bowling Bash presented by BOM at Four Seasons Bowling Center in Alexandria. The 2026 Rockin’ River Fest, a free concert on the downtown riverbank stage, begins at 6 p.m. and runs until 10:30. In conjunction with the Rockin’ River Fest is the VIP Taste of Tailgating party, a ticketed indoor-outdoor event.

The slate on Saturday, June 27 kicks off with the free LSHOF Junior Training Camp led by community relations personnel from the New Orleans Saints and Pelicans, along with Northwestern State coaches and this year’s Hall of Fame inductees, on the NSU campus at the Webb Wellness and Recreation Center and Turpin Stadium. This event is presented by Natchitoches Regional Medical Center and is nearing capacity. Free registration for kids ages 7-16 is required and can be easily accomplished at LaSportsHall.com.

At noon Saturday, the Round Table Luncheon presented by the Tiger Athletic Foundation is set for Riverside Reserve on Mill Street. Fox Sports broadcaster Tim Brando emcees an entertaining program.

Festivities culminate Saturday evening with the Induction Reception at the LSHOF museum beginning at 5, followed at 7 by the Induction Ceremony at the Natchitoches Events Center. Northwestern State University and State Farm Agents of Louisiana are presenting sponsors Saturday evening.

The VIP Taste of Tailgating, the Bowling Bash, the Round Table Luncheon and the Induction Reception and Ceremony are ticketed events requiring purchase in advance through LaSportsHall.com or by calling 318-238-4255.

The Thursday reception, the Friday evening River Fest and the Junior Training Camp are free.

The Class of ‘26 is headlined by a star-studded group:  Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame 2025 inductee Sylvia Fowles, NFL stars Joe Horn, Todd McClure and Pat Williams, Major League Baseball All-Star Jonathan Lucroy and legendary basketball coaches John Brady, Mike McConathy and Dewain Strother.

Alexandria native and LSU baseball hero Warren Morris will receive the Louisiana Sports Ambassador Award, earning enshrinement into the LSHOF. His walk-off home run won the 1996 College World Series for LSU and resulted in the Bolton High School product becoming a lifelong spokesman for college baseball, the CWS and LSU.

LSU graduate and New Orleans native Gil LeBreton and multi-faceted Shreveporter John James Marshall are going into the Hall as the 2026 winners of the LSWA’s Distinguished Service Award in Sports Journalism. Former Tioga girls basketball coach and nationally-acclaimed high school sports administrator Kathy Holloway is being inducted as the recipient of the Dave Dixon Louisiana Sports Leadership Award.

The Induction Celebration will be hosted by the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Foundation, the support organization for the Hall of Fame. The LSHOF Foundation was established as a 501 c 3 non-profit entity in 1975 and is governed by a statewide board of directors. 

For information on sponsorship opportunities and other participation, contact Foundation President/CEO Ronnie Rantz at 225-802-6040 or RonnieRantz@LaSportsHall.com, or Greg Burke, Director of Business Development and Public Relations, at 318-663-5459 or GregBurke@LaSportsHall.com via email.

More than 53,000 Americans died on World War I battlefields.  Nearly 300,000 in World War II.  More than 33,000 in Korea.  More than 47,000 in Vietnam.

Always, and especially currently in the Middle East, the chance exists for deaths of Americans defending our country.

The numbers are seldom accurate for battlefield deaths.  That itself speaks to the horror and inhuman quality of what happens when countries collide, when warrior after warrior falls and becomes a number, maybe one uncounted.

No matter the final total, each was one.  And that One counted to friends and family.  It counted more than just about anything else did.  Someone was handed a folded flag.  Teary eyes heard Taps.  Real brothers and fathers and sons and daughters died.

An empty chair.

“Greater love has no one than this,
that he lay down his life for his friends.” John 15:13

In The Message, Eugene Peterson translates that verse in this way:

“It is the very best way to love. Put your life on the line for your friends.”

In the backwash of Memorial Day, it is helpful and healthful to remember that someone died for us.  Some of those men and women, we will never know.  Heroic strangers —  wartime death, the ultimate sacrifice to freedom — should inspire us all, through love, to help and heal each other with goodness and understanding.

Today and every day is a good day to remember that through one good man’s death, through His blood, an otherwise fatal and eternal debt was paid, one that will lead to the end of war and death.  Every day is a good day to remember we were all bought with a price. Until the human heart can grasp enough to at least hint at the full meaning of and reality of Christ’s death, it can’t grasp the beautiful simplicity of the gospel, which is not about what we can do, but instead is about what has already been done for each of us.

Contact Teddy at teddy@latech.edu

On Tuesday, May 26, 2026, shortly after 7:00 a.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop F began investigating a two-vehicle fatal crash on Louisiana Highway 4, west of McKeaver Road. The crash claimed the life of 59-year-old Monte Faulkner of Chatham.

The initial investigation revealed that a 2020 Ram 1500, driven by Faulkner, was traveling east on Louisiana Highway 4. At the same time, a 2024 Mack Commercial Motor Vehicle was traveling west on Louisiana Highway 4. For reasons still under investigation, the Ram crossed over the centerline and struck the Mack head-on in the westbound lane of Louisiana Highway 4.

Faulkner, who was properly restrained, received fatal injuries and died at the scene. The driver of the Mack was properly restrained and uninjured. Routine toxicology samples were collected and will be submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.

Troopers wish to remind motorists to always make good decisions while in a motor vehicle. Never drive impaired fatigued or distracted, follow all traffic laws, and always ensure every occupant is properly restrained. While not all crashes are survivable, taking simple precautions such as these can often mean the difference between life and death.

LPJ Sports Staff

More accolades come in for local high school baseball players as two parish athletes were given superlative awards while numerous others were named to the 2026 Louisiana Baseball Coaches Association All-Region team this week.

Ruston High senior Jackson Lee was named the 2026 LBCA All-Region 2 Hitter of the Year, while Cedar Creek junior Kade Luker was named Pitcher of the Year.

Ruston High, Cedar Creek, Choudrant and Simsboro all had players named to the team. They include:

• Pitcher Peyton Nations (Ruston, Jr.)
• Pitcher Tyler Roach (Ruston, Jr.)
• Pitcher Connor Yates (Cedar Creek, Sr.)
• Pitcher Cash Camp (Choudrant, Jr.)
• Pitcher Braden Bagwell (Choudrant, Jr.)
• Catcher Lander Smith (Ruston, Sr.)
• Infielder Chris Harrell (Simsboro, Jr.)
• Infielder Carter Nichols (Cedar Creek, Jr.)
• Outfielder JP Moak (Ruston, Jr.)
• Outfielder Ryan Coleman (Cedar Creek, Jr.)
• Outfielder Jax Doiron (Cedar Creek, Jr.)
• Designated Hitter Nolan Parnell (Ruston, Sr.)
• Utility Noah Smith (Cedar Creek, Fr.)
• Utility Cameron Bagwell (Choudrant, Jr.)
• Utility Sam Hartwell (Ruston, Jr.)

A Farmerville man was arrested last week following a traffic stop on La. Highway 33 by a Lincoln Parish deputy.

Tevin L. Gipson, 29, was stopped at approximately 11:16 p.m. on May 20 after deputies observed a vehicle traveling south on LA 33 without an illuminated license plate, according to an arrest affidavit.

The affidavit states deputies initiated a traffic stop at Commons Court and determined the vehicle’s registration had expired in December 2025.

While speaking with Gipson, deputies saw multiple packs of rolling papers. After being advised of his rights, Gipson reportedly stated he had approximately two grams of marijuana inside the vehicle.

A probable cause search was conducted and deputies located a small bag of suspected marijuana wedged between the driver’s seat and center console.

It was discovered Gipson was wanted for failure to appear in Third District Court to have his sentence imposed for previous charges of possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Gipson was transported to the Lincoln Parish Detention Center and booked for possession of marijuana, no license plate lights, expired vehicle registration, possession of drug paraphernalia, and the two District Court warrants.

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.

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