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.
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, May 27 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, 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)
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.
Louisiana Tech softball placed five players on the 2026 College Sports Communicators Academic All-District Team, the organization announced Tuesday.
Jina Baffuto, Rosalie Dufresne, Allie Floyd, Allie Furr and Laney Johnson each posted at least a 3.5 GPA while making significant on-field contributions for the Bulldogs. It marks the third straight season Louisiana Tech has had five players earn CSC Academic All-District honors.
The CSC Academic All-District teams recognize the nation’s top student-athletes for their combined achievements in athletics and academics. The CSC Academic All-America program separately honors student-athletes in NCAA Division I, NCAA Division II, NCAA Division III and NAIA competition.
To qualify, student-athletes must compete in at least 90% of their team’s games or start at least 66% of contests. Pitchers must throw at least 35 innings or make 17 appearances. Nominees also must be at least sophomores academically and athletically and maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher.
Baffuto concluded her four-year Louisiana Tech career by earning CSC Academic All-District honors after graduating this past weekend with a bachelor’s degree in speech pathology and a 3.78 GPA. The Bossier City native played in all 56 games and made 53 starts at second base, recording a career-high 23 hits while driving in 15 runs and hitting two home runs.
Defensively, Baffuto totaled 119 putouts and 62 assists while committing only three errors.
Dufresne, a junior college transfer in her first season with the Bulldogs, earned the honor while maintaining a 4.0 GPA in kinesiology and health sciences. The Quebec, Canada, native appeared in 45 games with 41 starts, recording 26 hits, 15 RBIs, five doubles and one home run. She also threw out four runners attempting to steal and committed just one error behind the plate.
Floyd earned CSC Academic All-District honors for the third consecutive season. The senior completed her bachelor’s degree in biology in the fall of 2025 and is currently pursuing her MBA while maintaining a 4.0 GPA. She also earned Conference USA All-Academic Team honors this season.
On the field, the Texas native led the Bulldogs in wins (11), innings pitched (146), strikeouts (106), complete games (nine) and shutouts (two).
Furr, who also earned Conference USA All-Academic Team honors in 2026, received CSC Academic All-District recognition for the first time in her career. The Ruston native carries a 3.98 GPA in animal science.
Furr played in 55 games with 54 starts and led Louisiana Tech with 65 hits, ranking among eight Conference USA players with at least 60 hits this season. The redshirt sophomore also scored 29 runs, drove in 18 and led the team with 18 multi-hit games.
Johnson rounded out Louisiana Tech’s five selections. The sophomore pitcher from Stonewall carries a 3.96 GPA in biology.
Johnson appeared in 29 games with 15 starts in the circle, winning eight games while pitching 87 2/3 innings and striking out 30 batters. Her two shutouts ranked second on the team.
William Aubrey Lassiter, Jr., 79, of Portland, died Monday, May 25, 2026, at the Chicot Memorial Medical Center in Lake Village. Bill was born on January 9, 1947, to W.A. “Dink” and Maymie Ferguson Lassiter in Little Rock.
He graduated from Lonoke High School in 1965 and attended Arkansas State Teachers College in Conway. He served in the Air National Guard. Bill was a member of the Portland United Methodist Church and a 50-year Mason. He was a faithful follower of Christ and loved the Lord and his family with all his heart. He served his church and community through the years as a board President at Portland United Methodist Church, coaching youth baseball and was always willing to lend a hand to anyone in need. Bill was a farmer who worked the land for many years, and he mentored younger farmers after retirement.
He loved hunting and spending time at the deer camp, watching Arkansas sports, cheering for the Lady Techsters, and most of all, being “Papa Bill” to Aubrey and Cooper. Bill left a legacy of service and kindness and will be deeply missed. We take comfort knowing he is at peace and has heard the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”
He is preceded in death by his parents, W.A. and Maymie Ferguson Lassiter; his brother, Fletcher Lassiter, and sister-in-law, Doris Lassiter.
He is survived by his loving wife, Charlotte Hill Lassiter, whom he married in 1972; his daughter, Lindsey Lassiter of Jackson Heights, New York; his daughter, Brooke Stoehr (Scott) of Choudrant, Louisiana; his grandchildren, Aubrey Stoehr and Cooper Stoehr of Choudrant, Louisiana; along with a host of nieces, nephews and friends.
A funeral service will be held at 2 p.m., Thursday, May 28, 2026, in the Portland United Methodist Church with Rev. Aaron Miller officiating. Burial will be in the Portland Cemetery. Pallbearers are Roger Hensley, Zack Hill, Robby Lassiter, Zackary Lassiter, Robert Lassiter, William Lassiter and Levi Hill. Memorials may be made to the Portland Cemetery Association, c/o Marcia Vestal, 100 Highway 160, Portland, AR 71663, Portland United Methodist Church. PO Box 400, Portland, AR 71663 or to Arkansas Children’s Hospital Foundation, PO Box 2222, Little Rock, AR 72203-9984.
Visitation will be 1-2 p.m. Thursday at the church.
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
Dorothy Renois Price August 23, 1928 – May 23, 2026 Visitation: Wednesday, May 27, 2026, 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM, Owens Memorial Chapel Funeral Home
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
Louisiana Tech University conferred 1,107 degrees upon graduates of the Spring Class of 2026 during two ceremonies in the Thomas Assembly Center on a stormy Saturday morning and afternoon. The new Tech graduates join nearly 119,000 University alumni worldwide.
The keynote speaker for both ceremonies was Billy McConnell, a 1970 Chemical Engineering graduate of Tech whose diverse and successful corporate and entrepreneurial career has spanned more than five decades.
Offering stories of inspiration, tragedy, and faith, McConnell centered his address around powerful personal anecdotes, ranging from his grandfather’s definition of being a “millionaire” through family, the sudden loss of a colleague in a plane crash, and a story of his son-in-law’s winning battle with cancer.
“Life is a gift, and life is not fully in our control, but the way we respond to it is,” McConnell said during his address. “56 years ago, I was sitting where you are. I had no idea what life would hold. Neither do you. But that’s not something to fear; it’s something to embrace.”
Notable graduates included Emma Foltz, whose leadership helped protect the lives of young campers during the devastating 2025 Camp Mystic flood; Olivia Grace George, Miss Louisiana 2024 and a former member of the Regal Blues dance team; and four students who dedicated time in their college careers to bringing the University’s costumed mascot Champ to life. Eight students were commissioned into the United States Air Force, and two students were commissioned into the United States Army. Twenty-three undergraduates celebrated the honor of maintaining a perfect 4.0 GPA throughout college, and 14 doctorate degrees were awarded across a range of disciplines.
In the afternoon ceremony, President Jim Henderson presented degrees to his youngest son Alexander and his daughter-in-law Henlee Hoffer; the newlyweds married just two days before graduation.
The thunder and heavy rain did little to dampen the spirits of the Class of 2026, the heavily attended ceremonies punctuating the end of Louisiana Tech’s 2025-26 school year.
A profound sense of history and celebration filled the campus of Grambling State University as the institution hosted its Spring 2026 Commencement Exercises inside the Fredrick C. Hobdy Assembly Center.
The occasion held special significance as Grambling State University commemorated 125 years of academic excellence and honored 42 members of the Spring 1976 graduating class during the Golden Graduates Reunion. The recognition served as both a tribute to the alumni’s enduring legacy and a reminder of the institution’s longstanding impact on generations of students.
The two-day reunion experience brought alumni back to Grambling State University for a series of commemorative events celebrating their lifelong connection to the institution. Activities included guided tours of campus, the Digital Library and Learning Commons, the Student Success Center, and the Eddie G. Robinson Museum, along with a Golden Graduate Luncheon, a Golden Class Experience celebration, and special recognition during the Spring 2026 Commencement Ceremony. Throughout the weekend, alumni reconnected with classmates, reflected on their collegiate experiences, and witnessed firsthand the continued growth and transformation taking place across the campus.
For many members of the Class of 1976, returning to Grambling State University represented far more than a reunion. It was an opportunity to reflect on the doors the institution opened for them personally and professionally while celebrating the enduring spirit of Grambling State. Golden Graduate Dr. Loretha Bradley, who traveled from St. Landry Parish to attend Grambling State University over five decades ago, recalled how scholarships and encouragement from family members helped make higher education possible.
“Like many Grambling students, I came from a poor family and didn’t have much,” Bradley said. “Two of my aunts were educators and reached out to Grambling and wrote letters trying to get me academic scholarships. So I got to attend for free. I went nonstop every single semester taking 21 hours each time.”
Bradley graduated summa cum laude before building a distinguished 36-year career with Allstate Insurance across Louisiana. She later earned both a master’s degree in Christian Counseling and a doctorate in Religious Education and now serves as a school administrator at Greenwood Acres Christian College in Shreveport, Louisiana. Reflecting on her return to Grambling State University, Bradley expressed admiration for the institution’s continued progress while appreciating the preservation of key landmarks that connect generations of alumni to the campus experience.
“I’m glad they’ve kept a few buildings I recognize because so much of it has changed,” Bradley said. “I still remember the football games because I attended Grambling when the Tigers were one of the top teams in college football.”
Dr. Patricia Mitchell Marzett, a Chicago native who earned her undergraduate degree in elementary education from Grambling State University, shared similar reflections about the transformative role the institution played in her life. After returning to Chicago following graduation, Marzett continued her career in education and ultimately earned a doctorate in Educational Leadership, specializing in K-12 education. Returning to Grambling State University as a Golden Graduate allowed her to reconnect with classmates while witnessing the University’s continued momentum and growth.
“Seeing the campus today, I’m amazed,” Marzett said. “I’m so proud of Grambling State University. It has come a long way.”
Marzett also reflected on the powerful sense of community that has remained consistent throughout the decades, describing the reunion as an emotional and affirming experience shared alongside fellow alumni and a new generation of graduates.
“The camaraderie and love that exist here are special,” Marzett said. “We truly are GramFam.”
Nigel Davis, a Bastrop, Louisiana native and former accounting major, returned to campus with his wife, Ola, to celebrate the milestone occasion. Following graduation, Davis established a successful career with the Federal Reserve Bank in Kansas City, Missouri, where he worked until retiring in 2016. As he reflected on the evolution of Grambling State University, Davis noted how advancements in technology and infrastructure have reshaped the student experience while preserving the institution’s proud traditions.
“You can really see the phases of life that have affected Grambling State over the years,” Davis said. “Technology is much more advanced now, and the continued construction and development across campus are impressive. It’s good to see the University continuing to progress.”
A former alto saxophonist in the World Famed Tiger Marching Band, Davis also fondly recalled participating in the 1975 Super Bowl halftime show and reconnecting with fellow band members during Homecoming celebrations throughout the years.
Curtis Heard, another accounting graduate from Monroe, Louisiana, reflected on the strong professional foundation Grambling State University provided throughout his accomplished career. Following graduation, Heard worked for Texas Instruments before joining the Internal Revenue Service, where he served in several leadership and instructional capacities. He later became finance director for the City of Monroe under Mayor Abe Pierce, Monroe’s first Black mayor.
“When I attended Grambling State University, Adams Hall housed the business department, and Jacob T. Stewart was the dean of business,” Heard said. “Now he has his own building. Things have changed so much.”
Living only a short distance from Grambling, Heard has remained closely connected to the University through athletics and alumni engagement, regularly returning to campus and continuing to witness the institution’s remarkable transformation over the decades.
Golden Graduate Patricia Wilson, an elementary education graduate from West Monroe, Louisiana, also praised the continued advancement taking place across Grambling State University. Wilson spent 18 years teaching in the Dallas Independent School District before dedicating another 20 years to the Department of Defense Education Activity system. Returning to campus for the Golden Graduates celebration provided an opportunity to reflect on her career while celebrating the institution that helped shape her professional journey.
“I am so impressed,” Wilson said. “There’s lots of progress being made, and that is wonderful to see. Being back as a Golden Graduate is historical, and I just love it.”
Maurice McGee, who earned his degree in political science and later worked for both Dutch Morial and Marc Morial in New Orleans, echoed many of his classmates’ sentiments. McGee reflected on both the physical transformation of Grambling State University and the emotional significance of returning to campus for such a meaningful milestone celebration.
“When I learned about the chance to come back as a Golden Graduate, I was overjoyed,” McGee said. “Being part of this is so very special. I’m just proud to be part of all of it.”
For Eve Goins, who earned a degree in Business Data Processing and later built a successful career as a database analyst with CenturyTel, the reunion brought back cherished memories while highlighting the University’s continued progress and innovation. Like many of her classmates, Goins viewed the experience as both nostalgic and inspiring.
“I’m so grateful to be able to come back and be part of all of this and to see all the change and progress taking place,” Goins said. “It’s truly amazing.”
Beyond reconnecting with classmates and celebrating their shared legacy, the Golden Graduates also demonstrated a collective commitment to investing in future generations of Grambling State University students. As part of the reunion celebration, members of the Class of 1976 raised $25,500 to formally establish the Grambling State University – Class of 1976 Endowed Scholarship fund. This legacy investment represents the single largest class gift ever raised to establish an endowed scholarship fund at Grambling State University and serves as a powerful reflection of the lifelong bond between the University and its alumni.
As Grambling State University continues its 125th anniversary celebration, the generosity and legacy of the Class of 1976 stand as a testament to the enduring spirit that has defined the institution for more than a century. From producing transformational leaders and pioneering educators to cultivating generations of servant leaders committed to uplifting communities around the world, Grambling State University’s impact continues to transcend time. The Golden Graduates Reunion not only honored the achievements of the past, but also reinforced the University’s continued momentum toward shaping the next generation of leaders for the next 125 years and beyond.
Memorial Day is not about picnics, barbecue, or a trip to the beach. It’s not even about veterans or those currently in military service.
There are other days to honor them.
Memorial Day is about the ones who didn’t come home.
Like the 122 Louisiana Tech students who died in World War II.
In 1952, Louisiana Tech built a new gymnasium. Since then, thousands of students, concert goers, and basketball fans have visited the gym to attend class or a concert or to watch a Bulldog or Lady Techster game.
Only a handful ever knew why it was named Memorial Gymnasium.
It wasn’t named in memory of a famous coach or to honor a rich donor.
It was built at the height of the Korean War when memories of loved ones lost in a previous war were still raw.
The students who attended Tech during World War II insisted it be named in memory of the 122.
Their names appear in bronze on a massive plaque inside the gym. On Sunday morning, December 7, 1941, many of them were eating in the Toliver Dining Hall when they received word of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. Many of them immediately left their seats, packed their belongings, and headed for their hometowns to enlist for military service.
They answered the call to respond before there was a call.
To protect their country, friends, and families.
Of them, 122 never came home.
Remember them this Memorial Day and the others like them.
Louisiana Tech University’s School of Agricultural Sciences and Forestry hosted its 53rd Annual Farm Production Sale in May, continuing a long-standing tradition that supports student scholarships, livestock units, and hands-on agricultural education.
Hosted at Louisiana Tech’s South Campus, the annual event brought together alumni, agricultural producers, industry partners, local FFA chapters, students, and community supporters to celebrate agriculture and invest in the future of agricultural education.
The 2026 Tech Farm Livestock Auction grossed $176,389 with more than $44,572 designated for scholarships for Agricultural Sciences students, an increase of more than $12,000 from the previous year. Remaining proceeds will support livestock units used in teaching, research, and service activities at Tech Farm.
“This year’s auction was a tremendous success and a reflection of the continued support our community shows for Louisiana Tech agriculture and our students,” said Dr. Gary Kennedy, dean of Louisiana Tech’s College of Applied and Natural Sciences. “The funds raised through this event help us continue providing meaningful, hands-on learning experiences that prepare students for careers in agriculture and related industries.”
A major highlight of the event was the continued partnership between Louisiana Tech, Louisiana Land Bank, and Century Next Bank to help combat food insecurity in Northeast Louisiana through beef donations to the Food Bank of Northeast Louisiana.
For the third consecutive year, Century Next Bank and Louisiana Land Bank each purchased a lot featuring a market steer. The processed meat will be donated to the Food Bank.
“The donations the past three years have provided more than 11,000 servings of beef to the Food Bank of Northeast Louisiana,” said Mark Murphey. “What a great story.”
Other sale highlights included:
Five finished market steers with processing included totaling $25,948.75
Seven market hogs totaling $5,469.05
Thirty heifers exposed to Grand Bayou and Windham Farms Angus bulls totaling $101,300
A registered bred Angus heifer donated by Windham Farms that sold for $6,400
A registered exposed Angus heifer donated by Grand Bayou Farms that sold for $4,100
Additional donated items supporting scholarships included cattle feed, picnic tables, rocking chairs, western wear, a chainsaw from Goldman Equipment, and baskets from Parish Meats and the Louisiana Tech Meat Science Laboratory, totaling $8,725.
Auctioneers for the event were Dusty Taylor of Taylor Made Auctions and Kennedy.
Pre-sale activities included a Cattlemen’s Meeting held April 23, sponsored by Taylor Feed of Ruston, Louisiana Land Bank, and the Louisiana Cattlemen’s Association. Lunch on sale day was provided by Borders Poultry Supply of Choudrant, Taylor Feed of Ruston, and Diamond MB Ranch of Athens.
The Farm Production Sale serves as an important experiential learning opportunity for students, allowing them to gain real-world experience in animal science, agricultural production, marketing, and event operations while working alongside faculty members and industry professionals.
Over the past five decades, the event has become a cornerstone tradition for Louisiana Tech and the surrounding agricultural community, reflecting the strong partnerships between the University, local producers, alumni, FFA organizations, and supporters who continue investing in the next generation of agricultural leaders.
A Hodge woman was arrested last Tuesday afternoon following a reported disturbance at an apartment complex on Tech Farm Road, according to a Ruston Police Department report.
Ashanti Faith Johnson-Jones, 21, was arrested around 3:10 p.m. on May 19 at the Royal Crest Apartments on Tech Farm Road.
According to an arrest report, officers responded to an apartment after a woman reported she had been assaulted by Johnson-Jones. Officers observed multiple bruises and marks on the woman’s forehead and face, as well as a large mark on her right knee.
She complained of pain in her head. She said Jones came to the residence to get her house key from the boyfriend. The victim said she was inside her bedroom when she heard her boyfriend yelling at Jones to leave. She then heard what sound sounded like forcible entry into the apartment. She called police before Jones kicked the bedroom door in and dragged the victim from the bed.
The victim also said Jones grabbed the back of her head and began to repeatedly hit her with a closed fist, Jones also allegedly damaged the driver’s side door of the victims vehicle earlier in the day.
Johnson-Jones was arrested and transported to the Lincoln Parish Detention Center. She was booked for simple battery, simple criminal damage to property, and home invasion.
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.
The New York Times Morning newsletter recently pointed out something I had never considered before: This year contains the longest summer possible.
That’s measuring by the calendar, obviously – not astronomically.
Memorial Day arrived as early as it could while Labor Day will show up as late as it can. Put the two together, and summer 2026 stretches farther than usual.
Of course, in Louisiana, hearing we’re about to experience “the longest summer ever” sounds suspiciously close to a threat. Around here, summer already tends to overstay its welcome. By August, you learn to grab the steering wheel carefully, avoid blacktop parking lots and wave constantly at mosquitoes, halfway expecting them to wave back.
Still, the phrase itself stayed with me: the longest summer.
The Longest Summer. Sounds like a movie title. (Actually IS a movie title, but we won’t go there lest we digress.)
Maybe an ultra-long summer is not that strange a concept, though, because I remember – as a child – already feeling that every summer was endless.
Back then, time moved differently. Summer afternoons seemed to unfold without limit. We stayed outside until Mama called us home. We rode bicycles, caught lightning bugs, attended Vacation Bible School, listened to cicadas and watched darkness arrive slowly, almost reluctantly. There were lawn-chair and swing-set conversations, watermelon slices, garden rows and long stretches of simply doing nothing in particular.
Children, I think, understand something adults forget: They know how to settle into a moment instead of willfully rushing toward the next. Somewhere along the way, many of us stopped experiencing seasons and started scheduling them instead.
Even rest now feels oddly competitive. We multitask sunsets, not content merely to observe but obsessively driven to record every ray of orange and gold. We check phones while sitting beside lakes. We hurry through conversations. We fill quiet moments with noise because stillness makes us uncomfortable.
Scripture often speaks of seasons. Ecclesiastes reminds us there is “a time for every purpose under heaven.”
Some seasons feel painfully short. Others seem unbearably long. Some are devoted to work and responsibility. Others are meant for renewal.
Maybe that’s partly why this unusually long summer catches my attention. Perhaps we need reminding that not every valuable thing happens quickly.
Tomatoes take time. Friendships take time. Healing takes time. Faith certainly takes time.
Sunsets should, too.
Most of us spend our lives wishing for more time – more time with children before they grow up, more time with aging parents, more time to say things we should have said earlier, more time to notice the blessings we rushed past while worrying about tomorrow.
Maybe that’s why the idea of “extra summer” feels strangely comforting. We’ll have extra daylight. Extra evenings. Extra chances to listen to birds at dawn, visit an old friend or simply watch clouds drift across a sky that God painted without asking anything from us in return.
Psalm 46:10 says, “Be still, and know that I am God.” But we’ve grown so accustomed to hurrying that stillness can feel almost irresponsible.
We should realize that some of the clearest moments of God’s presence arrive when nothing dramatic is happening at all – just a quiet evening, a familiar hymn, children laughing outside or the sound of wind moving through trees before a quiet summer shower.
In the end, the longest summer ever should not be about calendars or holidays. Instead, we should use it as a gentle reminder not to rush through the season – indeed, through life.
The fireflies will not stay forever, although in keeping with The Longest Summer theme, they seemed to arrive early this year. The warm evenings, sultry sunsets and voices around our supper tables will eventually fade. But for a little while longer this year, summer will linger.
Let it. Let the calendar crawl. Let the days dawdle and the evenings soften. And in the long, warm quiet, may we remember that every season is held in the faithful hands of the God who never hurries and whose steadfast love endures.
————————————————————
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.
The City of Ruston announces, weather permitting, Oriole Avenue, at its intersection with Lewis Street will be closed, beginning Tuesday, May 26th at 7:00am and shall remain closed for approximately two weeks.
This closure is necessary to allow the City’s contractor to install storm sewer infrastructure associated with the Intersection Improvement Project.
The City of Ruston regrets any inconvenience this necessary work may cause residents and motorists. We appreciate your patience, and any questions can be received by the Public Works Department at (318) 242-7703.
The City of Ruston announces, weather permitting, that the intersection of E. California Avenue and Edgewood Street will be closed, beginning Tuesday, May 26th at 7:00am and remain closed for approximately two weeks.
The closure is necessary to allow the City’s contractor to install storm and sanitary sewer infrastructure as part of the Intersection Improvement Project.
The City of Ruston regrets any inconvenience this necessary work may cause residents and motorists. We appreciate your patience, and any questions can be received by the Public Works Department at (318) 242-7703.
The City of Ruston announces, weather permitting, that the underpass between Woodward Avenue and S. Service Rd W. will be closed Tuesday, May 26th from 8am until 4pm.
This closure is necessary to allow for maintenance activities.
The City of Ruston regrets any inconvenience this necessary work may cause residents and motorists. We appreciate your patience, and any questions can be received by the Public Works Department at (318) 242-7703.
I’m about to tell you something no preacher has ever told you. You may want to sit down. You may want to brace yourself. You may want to alert the denominational office, because if this leaks out, it could change the face of Christianity as we know it.
Ready?
It is holy, righteous, and perfectly acceptable for you to say “No.”
Not “no” to sin—we already know that one. I’m talking about a radical, countercultural, spiritually liberating “no” to good things. To church things. To “we’vealwaysdoneitthisway” things. To “we need a warm body on this committee” things.
You no longer have to say, “Let me pray about it,” when you already know the Holy Spirit is whispering, “Child… absolutely not.”
You have permission—pastoral, biblical, Christcentered permission—to use the word “no” freely, joyfully, and without guilt.
We live in a culture that treats “no” like a fourletter word. We’re so polite, so conflictavoidant, so eager to be liked, that we twist ourselves into pretzels trying to find “winwin” solutions.
Meanwhile, our souls are running on fumes.
Jesus Himself said “no” all the time. He said “no” to crowds who wanted Him to stay. “No” to disciples who wanted Him to skip the cross. “No” to temptations that promised shortcuts.
If the Son of God could say “no” without guilt, surely His followers can too.
This revelation hit me while changing the air filters at the house. We have two units, which means two filters, which means two opportunities for sanctification.
I went to the discount store, the only place in Ruston that carries my size—and brought home the filters. When I unwrapped them, I noticed something odd.
Let me pause here.
Why is everything wrapped in plastic?Who decided my air filter needed to be hermetically sealed like it was going on a space mission? Why is my chewing gum wrapped like it’s a national security threat?
Somewhere, a committee met, and not one brave soul stood up and said, “No. Wrapping an air filter in plastic is dumb.”
Back to the filter.
Under the plastic was a sheet titled, “Getting to Know Your Filter.” I’m sorry… what? I don’t want a relationship with my filter. I don’t need to know its hopes, dreams, or how many microns it filters. If you’re out there reading airfilter biographies, I say this with love: get a hobby.
So I said “no.” I refused to “get to know my filter.” And it felt good.
“No” creates margin. “No” creates Sabbath. “No” creates space for the things Jesus actually calls you to do.
We are exhausted not because God has overburdened us, but because we have said “yes” to things He never asked us to carry.
When you say “no” to the unnecessary, you say “yes” to: peace, presence, prayer, people and purpose.
You say “yes” to following Jesus instead of following expectations.
The cross itself is God’s great “no” to everything that destroys us—and His great “yes” to everything that gives life.
When you say “no” in the right places, you’re not being selfish. You’re being faithful. You’re choosing the narrow way. You’re choosing Christ.
So hear this clearly, boldly, and with pastoral authority:
You are hereby empowered to say “no.”Not because you’re lazy. Not because you don’t care. But because your “yes” belongs to Jesus first.
And that, my friend, is the secret that might just set the church free.
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.
Tuesday, May 26 6:30 a.m.: Veterans free breakfast (VFW Post 3615, 206 Memorial Dr.) 10 a.m.: Storytime : Turtles (Lincoln Parish Library) 10 a.m.: Re-opening of the tree trail featuring 82 trees displaying tree tags with QR codes that link to tree characteristics, designed by North Central Louisiana Master Gardeners and other individuals (Lincoln Parish Park) 4 p.m.: Crafternoon : Bowl Turtles (Lincoln Parish Library) 6 p.m.: Video-Led Exercise class (Lincoln Parish Library Events Center) 6 p.m.: Adult Craft Night: Folded Book Vases; registration required 318-513-5510 (Lincoln Parish Library)
Wednesday, May 27 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, 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)
Dorothy Renois Price was born in Mansfield, LA, to Ivey and Will Renois on August 23, 1928. She and her twin sister Dorette were the youngest of ten children. Dorothy graduated from the Tri State School of Nursing and worked as a registered nurse in Shreveport for her entire career.
She was a staunch supporter of the Atlanta Braves and Dallas Cowboys. Dorothy enjoyed fishing, soap operas, romance novels, crossword puzzles, playing ROOK, feeding hummingbirds on her deck, and going to the beach with her sisters.
Dorothy moved to Ruston, LA in 2002 to be near her family and passed away at Onyx Care in Arcadia, LA on May 23, 2026. The family would like to thank the many nurses, aides, therapists and staff who cared for her there for almost six years.
Dorothy is survived by her children Janet Johnson (Buddy) and Kenneth Price (Beth), grandchildren Stephen Johnson (Gabriela) and Emily Johnson, and great-grandchildren Olivia, Patrick, and Wesley Johnson. She is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives.
Visitation will be from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM, Wednesday, May 27, 2026 at Owens Memorial Chapel Funeral Home in Ruston. A private graveside service will be held at Antioch Cemetery in Simsboro, LA.
