LPJ Sports Report

Twenty Bulldog Aquatic Club swimmers, coached by Paulette Butterfield, traveled to Baton Rouge July 9-12 to compete against the state’s fastest 14-and-under swimmers at the Louisiana Summer 14 and Under State Championship Swim Meet.

Athletes competed in the 10-and-under, 11-12 and 13-14 age groups, with each swimmer allowed up to six individual events plus relays across the three-and-a-half-day, prelims-and-finals meet.

“We sent 20 athletes to compete in the individual events,” Butterfield said. “It was a good mix of experience and youth within each age group. This was a tough meet for a lot of kids as they changed age classifications and got to experience a new level of competition. As a whole, we had some great results and even more importantly, had fun.”

Bulldog Aquatic Club finished 10th out of 19 teams in the overall standings, with the girls team placing 10th and the boys team placing eighth. The club also received the meet’s Spirit/Sportsmanship Award.

Six BAC swimmers earned All-State honors, given to athletes who finish in the top three of an individual event or relay: Mason Moreno (50 breaststroke, 100 breaststroke, 200 freestyle, 400 freestyle, 200 IM), Ian Liu (50 breaststroke, relay), Isabella Liu (100 breaststroke), Jackson Smith (relay), Charlie Han (relay) and Drew Cloutet (relay).

Smith, 14, was also selected to the Louisiana Zones All Star Team, one of 12 boys age 13-14 chosen to represent Louisiana Swimming at the Southern Zone championship meet in Orlando, Florida, later this month, where he’ll compete against swimmers from 15 other regions across the southern United States.

Below are results for Bulldog Aquatic Club swimmers by age group.

Girls 10 & Under
Charlotte Xu was 15th in the 50 freestyle, 14th in the 50 butterfly and 14th in the 100 butterfly. Isabella Liu was 8th in the 200 freestyle, 4th in the 400 freestyle, 4th in the 100 backstroke, 5th in the 50 breaststroke and 3rd in the 100 breaststroke. Kate Bolton was 35th in the 200 freestyle.

Girls 11-12
Destin Bell was 14th in the 50 freestyle, 11th in the 100 freestyle, 13th in the 50 backstroke, 18th in the 200 freestyle, 19th in the 100 backstroke and 27th in the 50 butterfly. Hayden Ryan was 41st in the 200 freestyle, 32nd in the 400 freestyle, 26th in the 50 backstroke, 27th in the 100 backstroke, 27th in the 50 breaststroke and 39th in the 100 breaststroke. Solae Woods was 17th in the 50 freestyle, 22nd in the 100 freestyle, 24th in the 200 freestyle, 11th in the 400 freestyle, 34th in the 50 breaststroke and 37th in the 200 IM.

Girls 13-14
Ana Anaya was 24th in the 50 freestyle, 20th in the 100 freestyle, 11th in the 200 freestyle, 16th in the 50 butterfly, 18th in the 100 butterfly and 18th in the 200 IM. Riya Koticha was 23rd in the 50 backstroke and 34th in the 100 backstroke. Emma June McDonald was 4th in the 1,500 freestyle, 4th in the 800 freestyle, 9th in the 200 freestyle, 9th in the 400 freestyle, 12th in the 200 backstroke and 12th in the 400 IM.

Girls relays
The 12-and-under 200 freestyle relay of Isabella Liu, Hayden Ryan, Destin Bell and Solae Woods finished 11th. The 12-and-under 200 medley relay of Ryan, Liu, Bell and Woods finished 14th.

Boys 10 & Under
Kegan Carnahan was 16th in the 50 breaststroke and 15th in the 100 breaststroke. Rory Gouedy was 10th in the 50 freestyle, 11th in the 100 freestyle, 7th in the 50 breaststroke, 6th in the 50 backstroke, 7th in the 100 backstroke and 9th in the 50 butterfly. Joshua Johnson was 8th in the 50 freestyle, 7th in the 200 freestyle, 6th in the 50 breaststroke, 5th in the 50 butterfly, 6th in the 100 butterfly and 5th in the 200 IM.

Boys 11-12
Nolan Boudreau was 22nd in the 400 freestyle. Ethan Hemed was 32nd in the 200 freestyle, 15th in the 50 backstroke and 29th in the 100 backstroke. Mason Moreno was 3rd in the 400 freestyle, 5th in the 100 backstroke, 2nd in the 200 freestyle, 1st in the 50 breaststroke, 1st in the 100 breaststroke and 2nd in the 200 IM.

Boys 13-14
Drew Cloutet was 20th in the 50 backstroke, 25th in the 100 backstroke, 23rd in the 200 backstroke, 12th in the 50 breaststroke, 15th in the 100 breaststroke and 11th in the 200 breaststroke. Dallas Gouedy was 17th in the 50 freestyle, 19th in the 100 freestyle, 24th in the 200 IM, 11th in the 50 breaststroke, 26th in the 100 breaststroke and 22nd in the 200 breaststroke. Charlie Han was 15th in the 400 freestyle, 23rd in the 100 backstroke, 19th in the 200 IM, 6th in the 50 butterfly, 10th in the 100 butterfly and 8th in the 200 butterfly. Ian Liu was 14th in the 50 freestyle, 12th in the 100 freestyle, 12th in the 200 IM, 3rd in the 50 breaststroke, 9th in the 100 breaststroke and 10th in the 200 breaststroke. Jackson Smith was 4th in the 50 freestyle, 9th in the 50 backstroke, 15th in the 100 freestyle, 15th in the 50 breaststroke and 22nd in the 200 IM. Maddox Snider was 21st in the 200 breaststroke.

Boys relays
The 10-and-under 200 freestyle relay of Rory Gouedy, Kegan Carnahan and the Johnsons finished 7th, and their 200 medley relay finished 9th. The 12-and-under 200 freestyle relay of Ethan Hemed, Nolan Boudreau, Joshua Johnson and Mason Moreno finished 11th, and their 200 medley relay finished 12th. The 14-and-under 200 freestyle relay of Drew Cloutet, Dallas Gouedy, Ian Liu and Jackson Smith finished 5th, and their 200 medley relay of Smith, Liu, Charlie Han and Smith finished 3rd. The 14-and-under 400 freestyle relay of Cloutet, Gouedy, Han and Smith finished 9th, and their 400 medley relay of Smith, Cloutet, Han and Gouedy also finished 9th. In the 14-and-under mixed-gender 200 medley relay, Smith, Liu, Ana Anaya and Emma June McDonald finished 12th.

The Bulldog Aquatic Club accepts new members year-round. For more information about the team and its programs, visit bacswim.net or teamunify.com/team/labac/page/home.

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I normally sit down to write this article on a Sunday night after observing, thinking, and praying for several days.  I typically have a general idea early in the weekend and finalize on Sunday night.

This week, however, has been very different.

The ups and downs of life have become very real this week.    The simple joy of seeing grandkids enjoy a simple backyard water hose spray and hear the excitement from your young adult daughter with great news is awesome.  However, my heart aches for those battling health issues and the myriads of issues around job loss.

So how do we navigate the ups and downs of life? 

The best approach I have found is a progression of a few Bible verses that provide some great insight.  Whether you are a Bible reader or not, I think you may find this mindset focus helpful.

Purpose – Matthew 5:16 talks about letting your “light” shine before others so they can see those good works and see what God is doing through your life.  With the ups and downs of life, it’s important to live a purposeful life.  You choose the purpose, but the key is intentional focus. 

Purpose provides meaning when the reason becomes cloudy. It provides direction when the path is uncertain.  It provides motivation when the drive dissipates.  Purpose can be the fuel to keep you going in tough times.

Plan – Luke 14:28-30 talks about needing to plan to ensure one makes wise choices to avoid the consequences of hasty decisions that were not well thought out.  While much of life is outside of our control, it is important to focus on what we do control. 

Planning, budgeting, and stewarding are all elements of living wisely.  We can avoid unnecessary difficulties and avoid some of those “downs” in life by practicing these wise practices.  Control what you can control through intentional planning.

Perspective – Luke 12:16-21 talks about a rich foolish man who experienced great financial success and became so engrossed in that success that he sought to focus solely on that success as he pursued a comfortable, self-absorbed life.  It didn’t end well.

Perspective is so key to the “ups” as well as the “downs” of life.  Success should drive us to continue striving, serving, seeking, and sharing.  Striving to work hard, serving others, seeking to have impact beyond the income, and sharing with those in need. 

Power – Ephesians 3:20 talks about not relying on our ability or strength, but rather on God to work through us with his power.  There will be times in life that we need support.  That support can come from others in addition to those relying on faith.

The power to navigate through difficult circumstances is something that we will all need at some point in life.  At some point, the challenges will be larger than our ability, and we will need to draw strength from outside ourselves.  Make the investment today to have access when needed!

Persistence – Philippians 3:13-14 talks about the need to forget the past, strain forward to what lies ahead, and press on toward the goal.  In tough times, it’s key to just keep “showing up”.  Just keep taking the next step.

Persistence keeps us in the game.  Persistence doesn’t need immediate answers, but rather requires hope, commitment, and belief.  Persistence keeps us moving forward when nothing makes sense, the future is uncertain, and the outlook is negative.

I don’t know about you, but life can be hard.  It’s full of ups and downs.  However, we can navigate more effectively if we follow the 5 P’s:

1. Purpose – Identify your why
2. Plan – Control what you can control
3. Perspective – Seek hard over comfort and always focus on others
4. Power – Life wasn’t meant to be lived alone; seek and receive support
5. Persistence – Just keep showing up – showing up matters

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.

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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, July 23
11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Kiwanis Club lunch and program (Trinity Methodist Church fellowship hall; Anyone is welcome to come to our meeting,please notify Richartd Hamilton of your attendance. 318-518-2121)
11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.: Picnic in the Park (Railroad Park)
2 p.m.: Tween Time : Cup Chickens (Lincoln Parish Library)
4 p.m.: Teen Time :  Drones in Agriculture (Lincoln Parish Library)
4:30-5:30 p.m.: Free meal provided by 5 Loaves 2 Fish Ministry at the Dubach Community Center, 167 North(just past the Post Office at the corner of Smith Street). All are welcome.
6 p.m.: Video-Led Tai Chi class (Lincoln Parish Library Events Center)
6 p.m.: Southern A’Chord Chorus rehearsal (Presbyterian Church fellowship hall, 212 N. Bonner St.; open to all women singers)
7 p.m.: Ruston Community Theatre presents “Guys and Dolls” (Dixie Theatre)

Friday, July 24
2 p.m.: Forestry with Darrell Streett( Lincoln Parish Library)
3:30-5:30 p.m.: Summer DND Campaign for Teens & Tweens (Lincoln Parish Library) Please call 318-513-5518 for important information about participation.
7 p.m.: Ruston Community Theatre presents “Guys and Dolls” (Dixie Theatre)

Saturday, July 25
9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Farmers Market
7 p.m.: Ruston Community Theatre presents “Guys and Dolls” (Dixie Theatre)

Sunday, July 26
2 p.m.: Ruston Community Theatre presents “Guys and Dolls” (Dixie Theatre)

Monday, July 27
11:30 a.m.: Lunch on Us (Presbyterian Church, 212 North Bonner Street., Ruston) — everyone welcome
4 p.m.: Storytime : Fruit (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, July 28
6:30 a.m.: Veterans free breakfast (VFW Post 3615, 206 Memorial Dr.)
10 a.m.: Storytime : Fruit (Lincoln Parish Library Events Center)
2 p.m.: Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries with Special Guests: BABY ALLIGATORS (Lincoln Parish Library Events Center)
4 p.m.: Teen Time :  Plant Pattern Bookmarks (Lincoln Parish Library)
6 p.m.: Video-Led Exercise class (Lincoln Parish Library Events Center)
6 p.m.: Adult Craft Night: Flower Mandala Garden Stake; registration required 318-513-5510 (Lincoln Parish Library)

Wednesday, July 29
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, July 30
11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Kiwanis Club lunch and program (Trinity Methodist Church fellowship hall; Anyone is welcome to come to our meeting,please notify Richartd Hamilton of your attendance. 318-518-2121)
11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.: Picnic in the Park (Railroad Park)
2 p.m.: Tween Time : Watermelon Slime (Lincoln Parish Library)
4 p.m.: Teen Time :  Jigsaw Puzzle Craft (Lincoln Parish Library)
6 p.m.: Video-Led Tai Chi class (Lincoln Parish Library Events Center)
6 p.m.: Southern A’Chord Chorus rehearsal (Presbyterian Church fellowship hall, 212 N. Bonner St.; open to all women singers)

Friday, July 31
9 a.m. to 4 p.m.: Friends of the Library Book Sale (Lincoln Parish Library Events Center)
10 a.m.: PAWS for NELA Therapy Dogs at Lincoln Parish Library
3:30-5:30 p.m.: Summer DND Campaign for Teens & Tweens (Lincoln Parish Library) Please call 318-513-5518 for important information about participation.
4 p.m.: Teens End of Summer Reading Party (Lincoln Parish Library)

Saturday, Aug. 1
9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Farmers Market
10 a.m.-3 p.m.: Friends of the Library Book Sale (Lincoln Parish Library Events Center)

Sunday, Aug. 2
1-4 p.m.: Friends of the Library Book Sale (Lincoln Parish Library Events Center)

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Courtesy of LA Tech Athletic Communications

Louisiana Tech baseball is marked to compete in the Round Rock College Baseball Classic at Dell Diamond in Round Rock, Texas on February 26-28, 2027.

Hosted by Peak Events, LLC and presented by Karbach Brewing Company and Go Round Rock, the Bulldogs will compete in the round-robin style tournament alongside the Alabama Crimson Tide, Texas State Bobcats and Texas Tech Red Raiders.

This is the first time the ‘Dogs travel to the Lone Star State for a neutral-site weekend since sweeping Army, Creighton and Air Force at the Battle at the Ballpark at Constellation Field in Sugar Land, Texas.

“This is a field that college baseball fans in Round Rock are going to love,” said Ryan Holloway, Founder and CEO of Peak Events. “The Crimson Tide, Bulldogs, Bobcats, and Red Raiders each bring serious talent and a winning tradition to the diamond, and we’re excited to host the next edition of the Round Rock Classic with teams of this caliber.”

LA Tech will announce the full baseball schedule later this year.

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Courtesy of LA Tech Athletic Communications

Tickets are available for the Louisiana Tech Athletics Hall of Fame induction ceremony, set to take place on Friday, October 9, inside the Davison Athletic Complex.

The event will honor the 2026 Hall of Fame class, a distinguished group of four former student-athletes including Fred McGaha (Baseball), Johnny Robinson (Football), Morgan Turkoly (Softball), and Wenford Wilborn (Football). 

Single tickets are on sale for $50, and a table of eight is $500. A limited number are available for the event and can be purchased through LATechSports.com/HOFTickets.  For more information, contact the Louisiana Tech Ticket Office at (318) 257-3631 or email techtickets@latech.edu.

Doors will open at 6 p.m., followed by an hour-long social reception with heavy hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar, prior to the ceremony beginning at 7 p.m. Dress is business casual.

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

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Jerry Whitman 
May 20, 1950  –  July 17, 2026 
Visitation: Friday, July 24, 2026, 9:30AM – 11:00AM, Temple Baptist Church Sanctuary 
Service: Friday, July 24, 2026, 11:00AM, Temple Baptist Church Sanctuary 
Final Resting Place: Choudrant Memorial Cemetery, Jones Street, Choudrant  

Charlotte Ann Washington   
Saturday 08/04/1951 — Wednesday 07/08/2026    
Memorial: Saturday 07/25/2026 10:00am at King’s Funeral Home 

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By Kyle Roberts

RUSTON, La. — The Lincoln Parish School Board appointed Juan Hooper to fill the District 10 seat left vacant by the death of longtime board member Otha Anders during a special-called meeting Tuesday, voting 7-2 after an hour-long process that included presentations from three candidates and a brief dispute over how the vote itself would be conducted.

Board President Gregg Phillips opened the meeting with a prayer remembering Anders before turning proceedings over to Superintendent John Young, who said the board had received a letter from the Secretary of State’s office authorizing it to appoint a replacement at the conclusion of Tuesday’s vote. Board members Joe Mitcham and Hunter Smith were absent.

Young said three district residents had applied for the seat: Jennifer Mamon, Juan Hooper and Dr. Lorie Ann Hopkins-Brown. Each was given five minutes to address the board, followed by questions from members.

Mamon, director of destination sales for Experience Ruston, told the board she has lived in District 10 her entire life and came up through Lincoln Parish schools alongside her four children, two of whom have graduated. She said her background includes juvenile behavioral development, human resource management and psychology, and that she began her career as a substitute teacher and bus driver assistant at Lincoln Total Community Action’s Head Start program.

Hooper, a fourth-generation educator with 36 years in the field — including 27½ years with Monroe City Schools teaching pre-K through first grade — said she is a Louisiana Tech graduate and currently serves as education coordinator for Lincoln Head Start under Lincoln Total Community Action. She described herself as a longtime neighbor and family friend of Anders and said she wanted “to pick up the baton” he carried for nearly 30 years.

Hopkins-Brown, pastor of Liberty Christian Center West and a business owner in residential and commercial construction and real estate development, said her platform would rest on parental and family involvement and full accountability for public funds. She told the board she has been in ministry more than 30 years and described her approach as rooted in a “servant mindset.”

During public comment, Veda Emerson of the Ruston Voters League read a letter she said she was given on behalf of the Anders family recommending Hooper for the appointment. The letter, addressed to the board, said the family believed Hooper “possesses the character, commitment, and leadership necessary to continue the work that Mr. Anders began” and that her appointment would “provide continuity of leadership and honor the legacy of public service” Anders devoted to the community.

After the letter was read, Hopkins-Brown withdrew her name from consideration, saying she wanted to honor the family’s request.

Several community members spoke in support of Hooper before the board moved to a vote, including one speaker who noted Hooper had previously run unsuccessfully against Anders for the seat in a previous election.

The board’s method of voting became a point of contention before ballots were cast. Board attorney Neal Johnsonhad prepared written ballots with the names of the three candidates requiring members’ signatures, which he said would be attached to the meeting minutes as part of the public record. Some board members and audience members questioned why a written ballot was necessary rather than a voice vote, with one member calling the paper process needlessly complicated for a two-candidate race. Phillips ultimately opted for a roll-call vote instead.

The board first voted on Mamon’s nomination, which failed 5-4. Voting no were David Ferguson, Dr. Danielle Williams, Clark Canterbury, Patricia Mims-Brooks and George Mack Jr. Voting yes were Phillips, Vice President Donna Doss, Danny Hancock and Debbie Abrahm.

Mack then nominated Hooper, who was appointed 7-2. Voting yes were Ferguson, Williams, Canterbury, Phillips, Doss, Mims-Brooks and Mack. Voting no were Abrahm and Hancock.

The board then adopted a resolution formally appointing Hooper to serve the remainder of Anders’ unexpired term, with copies to be sent to the Lincoln Parish Clerk of Court and the Secretary of State as required by law. Johnson administered the oath of office to Hooper immediately following the vote.

“It means so much to me to be able to serve District 10, to follow such a leader as Mr. Anders,” Hooper said. “He has set a standard that I think will be hard to follow, but I’m going to do my best to live up to what I think that he would have loved to see as we move forward.”

Young said the process marked a departure from how the board has typically filled vacancies.

“This process may have been a little bit different from our standard appointments,” Young said. “I do think, if you lived in District 10 and wanted a shot to be on a school board, you’d come out tonight and you’d have a discussion. It’s about increasing some transparency for us as a school board. We usually just brought one person in the past, but I think tonight you got to see a bit of a shift in terms of our ideology to give an open forum for candidates.”

Phillips thanked all three candidates and encouraged them to remain involved with the district.

“I really appreciate all three candidates who put their name forward; all three obviously want the job, and I really appreciate the fact that all three of them have the heart of public service,” Phillips said. “I hope all three of them stay engaged, uh, beyond tonight, throughout the rest of this year, and next year, and beyond. We have an opportunity to make a positive impact in our community.”

Mack, who represents District 11, said he was confident in the board’s ultimate choice.

“Ms. Hooper will be an outstanding addition to the board,” Mack said. “She epitomizes the legacy of Mr. Otha Anders, now and moving forward.”

As board attorney, Johnson also noted before the vote that Anders’ unexpired term does not extend beyond the next regularly scheduled school board election, meaning a permanent District 10 representative will still be decided by voters this fall. Both Hooper and Mamon confirmed during the open forum that they intend to run for the seat in that race.

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Lincoln Parish residents are invited to meet Ruston Alderman Bruce Siegmund and hear his vision for the future of the city during his campaign kickoff event on Monday, July 27, at Tanyard Creek Student Center.

The come-and-go event will be held from 5-7 p.m. at Tanyard Creek Student Center, 402 Harley Lane in Ruston, where attendees will enjoy finger food treats while hearing a campaign update from Siegmund as he officially launches his campaign for re-election to the Ruston Board of Aldermen representing Ward 5.

Hosted by Mayor Ronny Walker and his wife, Kay, the event will provide residents with an opportunity to visit one-on-one with Siegmund, discuss the issues facing Ruston and learn more about the priorities he hopes to continue advancing after 12 years of service on the Ruston Board of Aldermen.

Walker said Siegmund’s leadership has played an important role in Ruston’s continued success and believes he has earned another term representing the citizens of Ward 5.

“I am proud to endorse Bruce Siegmund for re-election to the City Council, District 5,” Walker said. “Bruce has served our community with integrity, sound judgment and a steady commitment to doing what is best for the citizens of Ruston. He has been a valuable partner in helping move our city forward, and I appreciate his thoughtful leadership, commitment to progress and willingness to work collaboratively to move our city forward. I ask the citizens of District 5 to join me in supporting Bruce Siegmund for re-election.”

For Siegmund, the campaign is about building on the momentum Ruston has experienced over the past decade while ensuring the city remains focused on responsible growth, strong neighborhoods and sound financial management.

A 47 year Ruston resident, Siegmund has served on the Ruston Board of Aldermen for the past 12 years. During that time, the city has experienced unprecedented economic growth, welcomed new businesses and industries, invested millions of dollars in infrastructure improvements and continued enhancing the quality of life for residents throughout the community. All of this has been done while remaining fiscally sound in budgeting. 

As a member of the Board of Aldermen, Siegmund has worked alongside Mayor Walker and his fellow aldermen to support investments in streets, utilities, parks, public safety and recreational facilities while helping guide Ruston through one of the most significant periods of growth in its history. 

His tenure has coincided with the continued revitalization of downtown Ruston, expansion of parks and walking trails, improvements to city infrastructure and strategic economic development projects that continue to attract new businesses, jobs and investment. Most recently, Ruston’s continued growth along the Interstate 20 corridor has positioned the city for even greater opportunities in the years ahead.

Siegmund believes that success has come through collaboration, careful planning and a commitment to making decisions that serve the best interests of the community. His campaign is centered on continuing that approach by maintaining fiscal responsibility, investing in infrastructure, supporting public safety and encouraging responsible economic development while preserving the hometown quality of life that makes Ruston unique.

Just as importantly, Siegmund says effective local government begins with listening to the people it serves.

Rather than a traditional political rally, Monday’s campaign kickoff is intended to provide an opportunity for meaningful conversations with residents. Guests are encouraged to stop by at any time during the two-hour event to enjoy refreshments, ask questions and share their thoughts about the future of Ruston.

Whether discussing neighborhood concerns, infrastructure improvements, economic development or public safety, Siegmund says hearing directly from citizens has always been one of the most rewarding aspects of serving in public office.

Supporters say Siegmund has earned a reputation for being accessible, thoughtful and willing to listen before making decisions. They point to his collaborative leadership style, steady approach and commitment to practical solutions as qualities that have helped Ruston continue moving forward while maintaining the character that has made it one of North Louisiana’s premier communities.

As he seeks another term, Siegmund says he is grateful for the trust residents have placed in him over the past 12 years and looks forward to continuing to work with fellow city leaders and citizens to build on Ruston’s momentum.

Everyone is invited to attend the campaign kickoff on Monday, July 27, from 5-7 p.m. at Tanyard Creek Student Center, 402 Harley Lane in Ruston. The event is come-and-go, and guests will enjoy refreshments while hearing a campaign update from Siegmund and learning more about his vision for Ruston’s future.

For more information about Bruce Siegmund and/or to donate to his campaign, visit www.Vote4BruceSiegmund.com.

Campaign supporters encourage Lincoln Parish residents to attend the July 27 kickoff, meet Bruce, ask questions and be part of the conversation as the campaign officially gets underway.

This is a paid advertorial

The above information has been provided by a political campaign. Unless otherwise noted, the Lincoln Parish Journal publishing staff does not endorse specific candidates or ballot measures.

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By Wesley Harris

Motorists found a smoother Main Street in downtown Dubach this week after the town used a $35,000 state grant for a paving project.

Most of Main Street was repaved over the weekend, adding to recent improvements in the downtown area.

The work comes as the restoration and reopening of the historic Gem Theater has brought new attention and traffic downtown. The theater reopened in May after being closed since 1963.

Patrons attending movies and other events at the Gem have brought additional vehicles to parking areas around the theater. Pavement was also poured on the block of Hico Street containing the theater as part of the restoration project.

The Main Street work was funded through a 2024-25 Local Government Assistance Program grant. Mayor Mona Wilson said the town originally planned to use the grant last year, but the funds were placed on hold.

“Now that they are released, the Town Council decided to use it for the downtown paving project,” Wilson said.

Town officials had considered using the money for either water system improvements or paving.

“Our choices were water upgrades or paving,” Wilson said. “We chose to pay for the $39,500 in water system upgrades out of our water/sewer account and use the LGAP funds to do the paving.”

Wilson said she hopes the current work will lead to additional improvements.

“I hope to reapply for another LGAP grant once this project is complete and hopefully finish the paving and parking of all of downtown,” she said.

The current paving project covered Main Street from the First Guaranty Bank driveway to Boulevard Street.

The paving is the latest change in a downtown that has seen renewed activity since the Gem reopened May 22 following a three-year restoration. The theater had not shown a movie in more than six decades.

Wilson said outside funding is particularly important for a small municipality.

“Grants are limited in a small town. However, I try to apply for all grants I am made aware of and we have a need for,” she said.

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By T. Scott Boatright

Grambling’s mayoral race has taken a surprising return as former mayor Edward Jones has jumped into the competition.

Jones announced his candidacy on a Facebook post.

“Citizens of Grambling, I’m honored to announce my candidacy for Mayor of the City of Grambling. After serving 8 years as Grambling City Councilman and Mayor Pro-Tempore and 12 years as Mayor of the city, I’m ready to continue the work. I ask for your prayers and support as we continue building a stronger future for our city.” 

Former City Council member Alvin Bradley hauled in a majority 50.86% of the vote (383 ballots cast) in 2022, outdistancing the incumbent — Jones — who totaled 32.80% of votes (247).

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Louisiana State Police troopers arrested a Mississippi man Saturday following a coordinated effort by authorities to locate a suspect and vehicle connected to a drive-by shooting investigation in Ridgeland, Mississippi.

Shortly before 12:45 p.m. on July 18, the Ridgeland Police Department requested assistance from Louisiana State Police in locating a vehicle allegedly involved in a drive-by shooting. Troopers located the vehicle traveling west on Interstate 20 east of Minden and conducted a stop. The driver, Jaterris C. Johnson, 24, of Mississippi, was taken into custody without incident.

Johnson was transported to the Bayou Dorcheat Correctional Center, where he was booked as a fugitive on an outstanding warrant obtained by the Ridgeland Police Department. Johnson is accused of shooting into a dwelling in Ridgeland. He is awaiting extradition to Mississippi.

The vehicle, which apparently traveled through Lincoln Parish before the arrest, was recovered and secured as evidence, pending processing by the Ridgeland Police Department.

In a written statement, the Louisiana State Police said it “remains committed to working alongside local, state, and federal law enforcement partners across state lines to locate and apprehend individuals accused of violent crimes. Through continued coordination and information sharing, LSP is dedicated to protecting communities across all jurisdictions in need of support.”

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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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.

The Louisiana Department of Health has confirmed the state’s first human case of West Nile virus of the 2026 mosquito season and is urging residents to protect themselves from mosquito bites.

This case was confirmed in an individual from Ouachita Parish. To protect confidentiality, no further information about the patient will be released.

“Mosquitoes may be a common summertime nuisance, but they’re more than just a pest,” said Secretary Bruce D. Greenstein. “Every year, West Nile virus reminds us that mosquito bites can sometimes lead to serious illness. The good news is that a few simple steps, like using insect repellent and eliminating standing water, can significantly reduce your risk.”

West Nile virus has been actively spreading in Louisiana since its first detection in the state in 2002. In 2025, Louisiana experienced four deaths in the 86 confirmed human cases of the virus.

Local mosquito abatement districts across Louisiana routinely test mosquito populations for West Nile to monitor disease activity. To date in 2026, West Nile virus has been detected in mosquito pool samples in 13 parishes.

The virus is spread by mosquitoes and can cause mild to severe illnesses. While most people infected with West Nile virus develop no symptoms, about 20% of infected people develop West Nile fever. West Nile fever is a flu-like illness with symptoms like fever, headaches, body aches, nausea, and rashes.

A small percentage of infected people develop West Nile neuroinvasive disease, a severe illness affecting the central nervous system that can result in hospitalization or even death. Symptoms can include high fever, stiff neck, disorientation, muscle weakness, numbness, coma, and paralysis. These symptoms may last for weeks and result in permanent neurological damage or death.

Protecting yourself from mosquito bites is the best way to reduce your risk of infection. People age 55 and older and those with certain medical conditions are at greater risk of severe illness.

The Department of Health urges all Louisianans to protect themselves against mosquito bites:

· Wear an EPA-registered mosquito repellent to exposed skin when spending time outdoors and always follow label instructions. Do not apply under clothing or on broken skin.

· If using sunscreen, apply sunscreen first and insect repellent second.

· Keep mosquitoes out of your home by making sure windows and doors close tightly and screens are free of holes.

· Eliminate standing water around your home

o Empty or remove anything that can collect standing water, including buckets, flowerpots, toys, wheelbarrows, trash cans and plastic wading pools. Pay special attention to discarded tires that may have collected on your property, as this is a common place for mosquitoes to breed.

o Clean roof gutters regularly and change water in bird baths at least once a week.

o Keep swimming pools clean and chlorinated and drain water that collects on pool covers.

o Prevent ornamental pools and water gardens from stagnating by adding fish or aeration.

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Courtesy of Louisiana State Police

On Tuesday, July 21, 2026, shortly before 5:00 p.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop F began investigating a single-vehicle fatal crash on Louisiana Highway 838 just east of Estates Drive. The crash claimed the life of 68-year-old Ronald Payne of Monroe.

The initial investigation revealed that a 1993 GMC Sierra, driven by Payne, was traveling west on Louisiana Highway 838. For reasons still under investigation, the GMC ran off the left side of the road and overturned.

Payne, who was properly restrained, suffered fatal injuries and died at the scene. Although impairment is not suspected, routine toxicology samples were collected and will be submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.

Although the cause of this crash is still under investigation, Troopers wish to remind motorists of the importance of making good decisions while operating motor vehicles. Never drive impaired, fatigued, or distracted. Additionally, Louisiana law requires that every person inside a motor vehicle, regardless of seating position, remain properly restrained at all times. While not all crashes are survivable, taking simple precautions like these can mean the difference between life and death.

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

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By T. Scott Boatright

College Baseball Hall of Fame coach Wilbert Ellis found his own fountain of youth years ago conducting youth baseball camps in conjunction with the College Baseball World Series in Omaha, Nebraska, as well as in his hometown of Ruston.

Ellis will continue his summer ritual on Saturday as he oversees the 16th annual Wilbert Ellis Baseball Camp, which is free for boys and girls ages 4-15 at Frazier Fraser Field.

Ellis admits conducting the camps reminds him of his own childhood while also providing an opportunity to serve those most near and dear to his heart — children in need of a guiding hand not only in developing hardball skills, but also direction in how to handle the game of life.

“These camps help keep me young in my heart and my mind,” Ellis said. “It’s just so meaningful to invest time in our most valuable resource, the youth of North Louisiana and America as a whole. These kids come to the camps and realize that people truly care about them and want to help them not only with their baseball skills, but with their general life and learning skills, too.

“I remember learning the game of baseball, which has meant so much to my life, right there at Fraser Field. And to be able to bring these young people to that field and receive instruction and tips from successful athletes who earned college degrees and found success on the baseball field, I’m just thankful for the group of people who help conduct the camps with the same true passion I put into all of it. We’re trying to make positive impacts on young people. Sometimes it’s those little impacts like these that can make a really big difference in a young person’s life.”

Registration for the camp (T-ball for ages 4-7 as well as baseball for ages 8-15) will be held from 8-9 a.m. Saturday with the clinic itself beginning at 9 a.m., followed by lunch and a closing ceremony.

Campers will receive a free clinic T-shirt as well as being served a hot dog/hamburger lunch.

The camp not only teaches hardball fundamentals and skills, it also focuses on teaching youth about the game of life and the importance of things such as staying in school and completing their education, becoming good and productive citizens and leaders, and learning how to stay safe and healthy.

“Our children are our future and they’re worth committing our time to in order to try to learn how to become the best they can be. Some of that is baseball. Because of the expense of travel ball and things like that, a lot of kids who can’t afford it — kids who might need it most of all — don’t get to learn the fundamentals of baseball and the game itself.

“But maybe the most important thing about these camps is reaching out to young people and teaching them the importance of continuing their education, and staying away from things like alcohol and drugs that can hurt them both physically and mentally. That’s the real impact we’re trying to make conducting these camps. I grew up learning the game of baseball here in Ruston, and I’m proud to continue teaching the game here in Lincoln Parish. It makes me feel young getting out and talking with these kids and teaching them what they need to know to play baseball and succeed in life.”

Ellis was an assistant coach under Grambling President/Head Baseball Coach Ralph Waldo Emerson Jones for 17 seasons before taking over as head coach in 1978 and guiding the Tigers to eight divisional championships, three Southwestern Athletic Conference championships and five NCAA regional appearances while amassing a record of 740-462-1 over 26 seasons.

This year’s Wilbert Ellis Baseball Camp will again see the return of a member of the Grambling Sports Legends Hall of Fame and the Atlanta Braves Baseball Hall of Fame — Ruston native Ralph Garr.

Garr, who became a scout and coach after his playing days, was a pro outfielder from 1968-80 — most notably as a member of the Atlanta Braves — and eventually with the Chicago White Sox and California Angels. In 1974 while playing for the Braves, Garr was named to the National League All-Star Team and won the NL batting title with a league-best .353 average while also leading the NL in hits (214) and triples (17).

This year’s Ellis Baseball Clinic will also feature instructors including current GSU baseball coach Davin Pierre and his staff along with former GSU/Major League Baseball players such as John Lewis, Bobby Dupree, Angelo Eave and Brett Washington.

Former Ruston High School baseball coach and new Choudrant head coach Tim O’Neal, president of the Louisiana Baseball Coaches Association, is slated to join the all-volunteer staff at this year’s Ellis Baseball Camp, as are Ruston head baseball coach Bryan Beck and Cedar Creek head coach Chad Yates along with Rusty Ponton, Landon Foster and Nick Robinson.

“We try to teach baseball fundamentals like hitting, fielding, pitching and baserunning,” Ellis said. “We try to get the young people to understand the importance of staying in top physical condition and what that means in helping them increase their strength, agility and speed.

“This camp is something I feel like I need to do, especially because it is something I know the kids want and need,” Ellis said. “And that’s why all the volunteers come out and help. We make it a free clinic because we want as many youth who want to come out to join us. We want to impact the lives of our youth for the better.”

Ellis also wants to impact the lives of the parents of the youth attending the camp.

“We have enrichment programs for parents during the camp with guest speakers from local medical, law enforcement, education, mental health and financial agencies,” Ellis said. “We want to help these parents be the best parents they can be just as we want their children to be the best they can be, too. It’s about pulling people together and building unity throughout the community.”

To preregister for the camp, call Ronnie Lyons at 318-607-7407 or Brenda Dupree at 901-210-2137.

In the case of inclement weather, the camp will relocate to the Zion Traveler Baptist Church Family Life Center.

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

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A suspicious vehicle investigation last week led to the arrest of a Ruston man.

Bobby Joe Barfield, 71, was arrested July 16 by Lincoln Parish deputies.

According to an arrest affidavit, deputies were dispatched to Rodgers Road regarding a suspicious vehicle. The caller said a vehicle was parked in the woods with the driver asleep.

Deputies located a silver Honda Civic parked in the driveway of what appeared to be an abandoned house. The driver identified himself as Bobby Barfield.

According to the affidavit, Barfield claimed he had broken down and pulled into the property which he owned. However, deputies noted they had previously come into contact with Barfield on numerous occasions regarding parking his car on properties and trespassing.

The records check showed the license plate on the Honda was registered to a Buick. Dispatch confirmed an active bench warrant for on a previous trespassing charge.

According to the affidavit, Barfield said he put the license plate from another vehicle he owned on the Honda. He also claimed he owned the property where he was parked. The area where Barfield was parked was marked with “Private Property” and “No Trespassing” signs.

A records search of the address showed the property was not owned by Barfield.

Barfield was booked at the Lincoln Parish Detention Center for failure to appear on a criminal trespassing charge, switched license plate, and criminal trespass.

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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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.

While Tropical Storm Bertha is expected to make landfall along Louisiana’s southeastern coast Wednesday, forecasters say Lincoln Parish and the rest of North Louisiana should avoid the storm’s most significant impacts.

The National Hurricane Center forecasts Bertha will move inland Wednesday before weakening as it tracks north. The storm is expected to bring heavy rainfall, localized flooding, gusty winds and the potential for isolated tornadoes across portions of south and southeast Louisiana.

Gov. Jeff Landry’s administration has activated the State Emergency Operations Center as emergency officials coordinate storm preparations across the state.

While south Louisiana prepares for Bertha, North Louisiana continues to deal with oppressive heat. Heat index values have topped 110 degrees in recent days, and highs are expected to remain in the upper 90s Wednesday before cooling slightly later this week.

For Lincoln Parish, however, the tropical forecast is considerably less concerning.

Current forecasts indicate the area will remain largely dry through Thursday, with only isolated showers and thunderstorms possible Friday before more typical summertime rain chances return over the weekend. While Bertha is not expected to produce widespread flooding or damaging winds in North Louisiana, forecasters caution that the storm’s exact track could still influence local rainfall amounts.

The National Weather Service encourages residents across Louisiana to continue monitoring the forecast, as tropical systems can shift course and produce localized heavy rainfall well inland.

For Lincoln Parish residents, Bertha’s biggest impact may simply be a brief interruption in the summer heat. While rain chances increase slightly later this week, forecasters expect hotter weather to quickly return, with long-range forecasts calling for highs back in the triple digits across North Louisiana early next week.

Bertha is the Atlantic hurricane season’s second named storm. Although it is not expected to strengthen into a hurricane before landfall, tropical storms can still produce dangerous flooding, power outages and isolated tornadoes.

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KIWANIS CLUB

The Kiwanis Club of Ruston meets every Thursday at noon at Trinity Methodist Church. The first Thursday of the month is a business meeting, while the remainder of the weeks are devoted to our speakers.

Anyone is welcome to come to our meeting, but please notify Richard Hamilton of your attendance at 318-518-2121.

This week’s speaker is: SONNY CUMBIE, LA Tech Football Coach (this week’s meeting is at the Davison Athletics Complex, Club Level)

Kiwanis is a global organization of volunteers dedicated to improving the world one CHILD and one Community at a time.

LINCOLN ROTARY CLUB

Lincoln Rotary Club is a service organization dedicated to making a positive impact in Ruston, Lincoln Parish, and communities around the world. As part of Rotary International, whose mission is to provide service, promote integrity, and advance goodwill and peace, Lincoln Rotary members are committed to addressing local needs through hands-on projects, partnerships, and community engagement.

Lincoln Rotary meets every Friday morning at 7:00 a.m. at the Ruston-Lincoln Visitors Bureau, located at 2111 North Trenton Street in Ruston. Visitors and prospective members are always welcome to attend and learn more about Rotary’s motto, “Service Above Self.”

Each weekly meeting features a guest speaker who shares insights on topics impacting our community, region, and beyond.

This week’s speaker is: The organization is taking a field trip to Exodus Family Farms at 7 a.m. Exodus Family Farms is a family-owned educational farm based in Ruston.

For more information about the Lincoln Rotary Club, membership opportunities, or upcoming service projects, contact via the club’s social media pages.

RUSTON ROTARY

Ruston Rotary is the oldest Rotary Club in Lincoln Parish, with over 80 years of service to the Ruston community since its charter on February 13, 1943. It meets weekly for fellowship, food and insight, as well as to implement community projects. Their projects include scholarships for graduating high school seniors, dictionaries for third-graders, Christmas gifts for local nursing homes, and fans for the elderly.

It hosts monthly recognition for Lincoln Parish Students of the Month, and it presents the Bill Best Humanitarian Award annually to a deserving Lincoln Parish resident. It also provides camp opportunities for local students to RYLA, the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards.  

The Rotary motto is Service above Self. Come be part of Ruston Rotary and help create a lasting impact by giving back to the community with a sense of accomplishment and camaraderie.

Together we see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change across the globe, in our communities and in ourselves.

Ruston Rotary meets every Wednesday at noon at the Historic Fire Station at 200 East Mississippi in Ruston, and lunch is provided at each meeting. Stop in for a meeting one week to find out more about membership with our organization.

This week’s speaker is: SUZY BROUSSARD, Quilters for America Heroes

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.

Lunar Doo or Die

Man most recently walked on the moon December 14, 1972, the Apollo 17 mission.

Early 2028 is the current target for the mission of Artemis IV, NASA’s first crewed landing since the Apollo era ended.

In case you missed it, Monday marked the 57 years since Apollo 11 and man’s first steps on the moon, July 20, 1969. It was such a magnificent event that’s it difficult to believe we take it for granted now. Probably because it’s been 57 years, and probably because we’ve all seen Apollo 13 a few dozen times. To anyone younger than 60, Apollo 11 must seem like just another old movie you’ve intended forever to watch but haven’t … “Yeah, seems I heard something about that …”

The column below was written on the 25^th anniversary of those first lunar steps, a humongous, larger-than-large deal at the time. Do you remember where you were in 1969 — or in 1994?

Late on the night of the 25^th anniversary of Americans first walking on the moon, I walked into my back yard and looked at the moon, bright and nearly full in a clear sky, and I wondered:

If we can put a man on the moon, why can’t I drive from here to the Tyler zoo without having to stop and ask for directions?

The man in the moon would not answer this, and the stars were quiet.

But still I looked at the moon, alive, beaming, almost beating, the majesty of it all, and wondered:

Why am I so hungry all of a sudden? And why this craving for Tang?

Then I remembered I hadn’t eaten supper so I went inside and made some Frosted Flakes and ate them. It’s hard to look at the moon and think on an empty stomach. I wondered if they ate Frosted Flakes on the moon while they drank Tang.

Relapsing into a serious space addiction came unexpectedly this week. I watched all the documentaries, all the specials, from Moon Shot to The Right Stuff, some two and three times.

Didn’t meant to; one came on early in the week, and I accidentally watched some of it and then was in orbit, a willing projectile into an atmosphere of wonder and nostalgia.

I am just now re-entering Earth’s gravitational pull.

It all started happening when I was 8 or 9. I had all the models: the command module, the lunar module, the service module, the Saturn 5 rocket.

The command and lunar modules would even hook to each other with a push and a twist.

I was a human Mission Control.

The model thing has been mentioned to other guys my age, but none have admitted owning them. I was ahead of my time — or weird. Probably just weird.

We watched the moon walk live that night in South Carolina: me, my parents, my two sisters. We watched on a black-and-white Sylvania, and the picture was more grainy than usual. The reception was always a gamble from the Florence TV station 44 miles west; made sense to my small, still developing brain that Tranquility Base was going to be a bigger challenge.

Was thrilled we could see anything at all.

I was sitting on the edge of a brown oval rug, my feet on the hardwood floor, six feet from the willing but outmatched 20-inch screen, and looked at the moonwalk, a man really and truly walking around up there in what looked like a form-fitting balloon, and wondered:

If we can put a man on the moon, why can’t we get our Impala two-door with us in it to Six Flags Over Georgia?

Such memories flooded back as I stood in my yard and looked at the night sky and at the same moon I’d looked at 25 years ago. Of the two of us, the moon was the one that hadn’t changed.

This magical moment was broken only when I turned to walk inside … then smelled something. My dog, a loyal former stray named Mr. Elfie Smith, looked at me.

That smell … My shoe.

The dog smiled. A satisfied, relieved smile.

That’s one giant leap backward for mankind.

The astronauts never had to worry about stepping in The Wrong Stuff. Did they?

IN THE LUNAR MODULE …

Aldrin: “Nice walk, Neil.”

Armstrong: “Thanks, Buzz. You too.”

Aldrin, (sniffing): “Hey, you smell something?”

Armstrong: “It smells like …” (checking the bottom of his astronaut moon boot) “AWWW, MANNN! Doggoneit! I’m sorry. Gee whiz …”

Aldrin, (fanning): “Uh, Mission Control, we’ve got a little problem here. Anybody got a paper towel? … Did we pack Lysol? Air freshener? … Gonna have an interesting sample for you …”

Contact Teddy at teddy@latech.edu

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

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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, July 22
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)
2 p.m.: Exodus Farms at Lincoln Parish Library Events Center

Thursday, July 23
11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Kiwanis Club lunch and program (Trinity Methodist Church fellowship hall; Anyone is welcome to come to our meeting,please notify Richartd Hamilton of your attendance. 318-518-2121)
11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.: Picnic in the Park (Railroad Park)
2 p.m.: Tween Time : Cup Chickens (Lincoln Parish Library)
4 p.m.: Teen Time :  Drones in Agriculture (Lincoln Parish Library)
4:30-5:30 p.m.: Free meal provided by 5 Loaves 2 Fish Ministry at the Dubach Community Center, 167 North(just past the Post Office at the corner of Smith Street). All are welcome.
6 p.m.: Video-Led Tai Chi class (Lincoln Parish Library Events Center)
6 p.m.: Southern A’Chord Chorus rehearsal (Presbyterian Church fellowship hall, 212 N. Bonner St.; open to all women singers)
7 p.m.: Ruston Community Theatre presents “Guys and Dolls” (Dixie Theatre)

Friday, July 24
2 p.m.: Forestry with Darrell Streett( Lincoln Parish Library)
3:30-5:30 p.m.: Summer DND Campaign for Teens & Tweens (Lincoln Parish Library) Please call 318-513-5518 for important information about participation.
7 p.m.: Ruston Community Theatre presents “Guys and Dolls” (Dixie Theatre)

Saturday, July 25
9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Farmers Market
7 p.m.: Ruston Community Theatre presents “Guys and Dolls” (Dixie Theatre)

Sunday, July 26
2 p.m.: Ruston Community Theatre presents “Guys and Dolls” (Dixie Theatre)

Monday, July 27
11:30 a.m.: Lunch on Us (Presbyterian Church, 212 North Bonner Street., Ruston) — everyone welcome
4 p.m.: Storytime : Fruit (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, July 28
6:30 a.m.: Veterans free breakfast (VFW Post 3615, 206 Memorial Dr.)
10 a.m.: Storytime : Fruit (Lincoln Parish Library Events Center)
2 p.m.: Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries with Special Guests: BABY ALLIGATORS (Lincoln Parish Library Events Center)
4 p.m.: Teen Time :  Plant Pattern Bookmarks (Lincoln Parish Library)
6 p.m.: Video-Led Exercise class (Lincoln Parish Library Events Center)
6 p.m.: Adult Craft Night: Flower Mandala Garden Stake; registration required 318-513-5510 (Lincoln Parish Library)

Wednesday, July 29
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, July 30
11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Kiwanis Club lunch and program (Trinity Methodist Church fellowship hall; Anyone is welcome to come to our meeting,please notify Richartd Hamilton of your attendance. 318-518-2121)
11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.: Picnic in the Park (Railroad Park)
2 p.m.: Tween Time : Watermelon Slime (Lincoln Parish Library)
4 p.m.: Teen Time :  Jigsaw Puzzle Craft (Lincoln Parish Library)
6 p.m.: Video-Led Tai Chi class (Lincoln Parish Library Events Center)
6 p.m.: Southern A’Chord Chorus rehearsal (Presbyterian Church fellowship hall, 212 N. Bonner St.; open to all women singers)

Friday, July 31
9 a.m. to 4 p.m.: Friends of the Library Book Sale (Lincoln Parish Library Events Center)
10 a.m.: PAWS for NELA Therapy Dogs at Lincoln Parish Library
3:30-5:30 p.m.: Summer DND Campaign for Teens & Tweens (Lincoln Parish Library) Please call 318-513-5518 for important information about participation.
4 p.m.: Teens End of Summer Reading Party (Lincoln Parish Library)

Saturday, Aug. 1
9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Farmers Market
10 a.m.-3 p.m.: Friends of the Library Book Sale (Lincoln Parish Library Events Center)

Sunday, Aug. 2
1-4 p.m.: Friends of the Library Book Sale (Lincoln Parish Library Events Center)

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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.

Jerry Whitman 
May 20, 1950  –  July 17, 2026 
Visitation: Friday, July 24, 2026, 9:30AM – 11:00AM, Temple Baptist Church Sanctuary 
Service: Friday, July 24, 2026, 11:00AM, Temple Baptist Church Sanctuary 
Final Resting Place: Choudrant Memorial Cemetery, Jones Street, Choudrant 

Gordon Russell Brazzel 
Feb 18, 1946 — Jul 19, 2026 
Visitation: Wednesday, July 22, 2026: 9:30 – 10:30 am, Owens Memorial Chapel Funeral Home 
Graveside Service: Wednesday, July 22, 2026, 11:00 am, Corinth Cemetery, 4327 Louisiana 545, Dubach 

Charlotte Ann Washington   
Saturday 08/04/1951 — Wednesday 07/08/2026    
Memorial: Saturday 07/25/2026 10:00am at King’s Funeral Home 

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