Busy beavers out at the Buc-ee’s construction site this week. The first walls for the building went up Monday morning.
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The burn ban for Lincoln Parish has been lifted.
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Deputy Rob Sasser is retiring from the Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s Office and will soon assume the role of director of Lincoln Parish Animal Control under the parish police jury. Rob has dealt with animals all his life and has a degree in animal science from Louisiana Tech.
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A new drug store is in the works at the old Phil Waltz Pharmacy location on Trenton Street. More when we know more.
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Curious about all the dirt work in the creek bottom behind the Willis-Knighton Medical Plaza. Once the 90,000 square foot building is completed, it will consolidate all existing Willis-Knighton Ruston clinics and offer primary care, pediatrics, OB/GYN, orthopedics, and cardiology. The building will also house lab, X-ray, and Work Kare and allow for additional services in the future. But what’s happening down the hill behind the building?
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Ruston Mayor Ronny Walker told a neighborhood meeting Sunday that the City hopes by 2027 to take over portions of three state highways so they can be improved and modified to accommodate needs such as sidewalks and bike lanes. He mentioned Tech Drive/Cooktown (currently state highway 544) from U.S. 80 to Kentucky, W. Barnett Springs (Hwy 3012) from Tech Drive to Tarbutton Road, and W. Alabama (Hwy 150) from downtown to Maple Street. Once the City acquires the roads, sidewalks would be considered for pedestrian safety and bike lanes as a transportation option in those high-traffic neighborhoods.
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The mayor also told the neighborhood group the replacement of the Tech Drive/Cooktown bridge over Interstate 20 is running six months ahead of schedule. The contractor believes one year can be lopped off the project’s timeframe, finishing it in three years rather than the four-year maximum given by the state Department of Transportation.
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Have you seen the five-story high-rise apartment building and parking deck under construction across West California Avenue from Louisiana Tech? The private apartment complex will cater to international students attending local universities.
For the latest local news, subscribe FOR FREE to the Lincoln Parish Journal and receive an email each weekday morning at 6:55 right to your inbox.Just CLICK HERE to sign up.
A shooting incident Saturday night on Groveland Avenue in Ruston led to the arrest of two individuals on multiple aggravated assault charges, according to affidavits filed by the Ruston Police Department.
Arrested in connection with the incident were Trindon Carr, 18, of Ruston, and Kameion Rogers, 19, of Ruston.
According to arrest affidavits, officers were dispatched around 9:00 p.m. on May 2 to the 800 block of Groveland Avenue regarding gunshots fired in the area. Upon arrival, officers encountered a silver vehicle occupied by a group of individuals. One witness told police that a man later identified as Carr had been shooting a firearm at another vehicle.
Investigators reported that Carr was advised of his Miranda rights and admitted to firing a gun. Carr said someone in the vehicle fired at him first. Carr was taken into custody at the scene.
During the investigation, officers also identified Rogers as another suspect. Witnesses said he got out of the silver vehicle and fired at them. He was taken into custody and transported to the Lincoln Parish Detention Center.
Police reported no one was struck by the gunfire.
Both Carr and Rogers were booked on three counts each of aggravated assault with a firearm. The investigation remains ongoing.
This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named or shown in photographs or video as suspects in a criminal investigation, or arrested and charged with a crime, have not been convicted of any criminal offense and are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
For the latest local news, subscribe FOR FREE to the Lincoln Parish Journal and receive an email each weekday morning at 6:55 right to your inbox.Just CLICK HERE to sign up.
Jenni & Dr. George Smith are hosting a kickoff fundraising event for Assistant District Attorney Mike Smith candidate for Ruston City Court Judge May18, 2026, 5:30-7:00 pm.
Smith is a lifelong member of the Ruston community, He is the son of Kelly and cardiologist Dr. Billy Smith.
Smith dad has five brothers who were also doctors and one lawyer/ judge. His grandfather, commonly known as Dr. Joe, started at Green Clinic at its beginning. Mike’s great-grandfather Dr T L Smith, known as Docca, was a physician in Dubach, Louisiana in the time of horse and buggy house calls.
For more than 10 years, Smith has served as an Assistant District Attorney with the Third Judicial District Attorney’s Office.
Over the years, he has prosecuted thousands of misdemeanor, juvenile and felony cases for Lincoln Parish.
In addition to his public service, Smith also maintains a successful civil law practice, where he has worked to resolve disputes, negotiate disagreements, and help people reach fair and practical outcomes.
Smith is active in a number of civic and charitable efforts, including the Rotary Club, Kiwanis Club, and Teach One to Lead One. He also supports the Boys & Girls Club, United Way, DART, and youth and high school sports.
Mike recently celebrated his 11- year wedding anniversary with his wife, Danielle Smith, also a licensed attorney.
Together, they are raising their three sons in Ruston. Mike and Danielle are members of First Baptist Church of Ruston.
Ruston Parks & Recreation Announces Summer 2026 Programs and Events Ruston Parks & Recreation (RPAR) is gearing up for another exciting summer, offering a wide variety of programs, camps, leagues, and special events for all ages across the community.
All activities will take place at the Ruston Sports Complex and surrounding facilities, continuing RPAR’s focus on providing fun, safe, and engaging opportunities for residents and visitors.
Summer Camps & Youth Programs
This summer, RPAR will host multiple camps designed to keep kids active, learning, and having fun throughout the break. Programs include organized activities, skill development, and supervised play led by experienced staff, giving families a great option to stay active during the summer months.
Youth & Adult Athletics
RPAR will offer a variety of youth and adult sports leagues, giving participants the chance to compete, stay active, and connect with others in the community.
Leagues are available for different age groups and skill levels, with opportunities for both beginners and experienced players to enjoy organized competition.
Clinics & Skill Development
In addition to leagues and camps, RPAR will host clinics focused on improving skills and introducing participants to new sports. These sessions are ideal for those looking to build fundamentals or try something new in a structured setting.
Senior Adult Fitness Program
RPAR continues to expand programming for older adults through its growing Senior Adult Fitness Program, designed for individuals ages 55 and up.
The program provides a welcoming and supportive environment for all fitness levels, offering opportunities to improve strength, flexibility, and overall health while connecting with others in the community. Since launching in June 2024, the program has continued to grow and bring together senior residents from across Ruston.
Participants can take part in group exercise classes such as Strength & Stretch, Cardio Mix, and Groove & Flow, all designed to be self-paced and accessible. Classes are offered multiple times throughout the week, along with additional recreational activities and special events each month.
Special Events & Tournaments
Throughout the summer, the Ruston Sports Complex will host tournaments and special events, bringing in teams and visitors from across the region. These events give local athletes the chance to compete while adding to the community’s activity throughout the season.
A Summer for Everyone
RPAR’s Summer 2026 lineup reflects its commitment to providing accessible and family-friendly programming. Whether you’re looking for a camp, a league, a fitness program, or an event to attend, there are plenty of opportunities to stay active and involved this summer.
Registration is now open, and many programs have limited availability.
RUSTON, La. — Ruston High School seniors T’Avion Clark and Josh Daulton took the next step in their academic and athletic careers Tuesday and signed college scholarships during a ceremony held in the school auditorium.
Clark will continue her track career at Northwestern State University, while Daulton will compete in both track and cross country at Louisiana Tech University.
Ruston athletics director Jerrod Baugh said the moment reflects both individual dedication and the broader success of the school’s athletic programs.
“It’s always a very special moment anytime we have the opportunity to congratulate student-athletes for being dedicated not only to their schoolwork, but whatever they participate in athletics-wise, and being able to use their athletic abilities to further their academic careers,” Baugh said. “It’s a very special moment for their families, special moment for our athletic program and the teams.”
Baugh added that this year’s group of signees may be among the largest in recent years across multiple sports.
“I think it speaks to where our athletic programs are,” Baugh said. “We try to advocate for our kids to have that opportunity, and we’re all very proud of what they’ve been able to accomplish.”
Clark leaves Ruston as one of the program’s most accomplished sprinters and leaders in recent history. Head track and field coach Trey Smith praised her impact beyond times and records.
Clark plans to study elementary education at Northwestern State.
“We’re not just here to celebrate your signature — we’re here to honor your journey,” Smith said. “You didn’t just want to be fast— you wanted to be great, and more importantly, you wanted our team to be great.”
Smith highlighted Clark’s leadership as a captain and her role in shaping team culture.
“Leadership isn’t just about the title — it’s what you’ve done every day,” he said. “The standard you set, whether anyone’s watching or not, is something we want to continue. That’s your legacy.”
Smith said Northwestern State is gaining more than just a talented athlete in Clark.
“They’re getting a competitor, a leader — someone who understands what it means to represent something bigger than herself,” Smith said.
Daulton, a standout in both cross country and distance track, was similarly praised for his consistency and leadership. He comes from a Louisiana Tech track legacy, as his grandfather Robert ran for legendary head coach Jim Mize for the Bulldogs. He will study Business Administration and Entrepreneurship.
Head cross country coach Dustin Cochran reflected on Daulton’s long tenure in the program.
“You’ve been around a long time, and it feels like we’ve done everything together,” Cochran said. “What you brought to the program has been so much more than times and accolades.”
Cochran emphasized Daulton’s accountability and willingness to elevate teammates, even at the expense of his own development.
“When I think about what I want from an athlete — consistency, communication, accountability — you brought that from day one,” Cochran said. “Many times you took a step back to bring others along.”
Daulton also made an impact beyond competition. Nick Brown, Director of the Bearcat Nation Network, noted his commitment behind the scenes, including volunteering long hours to help with game broadcasts.
“On his one night off, when we needed help, he showed up,” Brown said of a broadcast at West Ouachita three seasons ago. “That’s the type of character he has.”
Both athletes were celebrated not only for their achievements, but for the example they set for future Bearcats.
“We’re proud of everything they’ve accomplished,” Baugh said. “We look forward to seeing what they do next.”
A single-vehicle crash in Lincoln Parish resulted in a DWI arrest last week.
Michael Sergey Pike, 26, of Arcadia was arrested April 30 at the crash scene on La. Highway 151.
According to an arrest affidavit, deputies responded to the crash about 11:30 p.m. and found a Ford F-150 truck had struck a gas meter in a yard. Pike was seated in the driver’s seat.
Pike reportedly showed signs of impairment, including slurred speech, swaying while standing, and a strong odor of alcohol. Pike admitted to drinking earlier in the evening, according to the report. He told deputies he lost control of the truck and ran into the yard.
Field sobriety tests were conducted, and authorities determined Pike was impaired.
A records check indicated the vehicle’s registration had expired, and Pike had a prior DWI arrest in 2022. During a search, authorities located an open container in the center console and a firearm in the rear seat area.
Pike was taken into custody and transported to the Lincoln Parish Detention Center, where he provided a breath sample showing a 0.215% blood alcohol concentration, according to the affidavit.
He was booked on charges including second-offense driving while intoxicated, careless operation, open container, and expired vehicle registration.
This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named or shown in photographs or video as suspects in a criminal investigation, or arrested and charged with a crime, have not been convicted of any criminal offense and are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
For the latest local news, subscribe FOR FREE to the Lincoln Parish Journal and receive an email each weekday morning at 6:55 right to your inbox.Just CLICK HERE to sign up.
Something happened for you and me a long time ago that greatly influenced our being here this weekend to celebrate Mother’s Day:
Our moms were born.
None of us are mistakes of nature; none of us got in the game, crawled onto life’s playing board, without momma. Neither did they.
The hand that rocks the cradle rules the world.
It is never hard for me to imagine mine as a girl. I have pictures, less than two feet away from me right now, of her in pigtails, grinning, a wisp of a gal, sugar and spice. I wonder if it was taken on a day her mother made a chocolate pie or on an evening after her daddy came home from the papermill in West Monroe and wrapped her in his big arms.
I have seen that same little-girl grin thousands of times. My mother’s smile, the one like the one in that long-ago picture, unrestrained and nearly wet-eyed, is one of my favorite things.
My mom. The little girl in her had my first pair of blue jeans and my first pair of boots, little red Roy Rogers ropers — (those were ‘in’ at the time!) — framed in a shadow box for me one Christmas. She gave it to me in October. Couldn’t wait.
The mother in her bought me a coffee pot when I was 21. Even though I didn’t drink coffee.
“Drinking coffee will keep your colon clean,” she said, to my face. “It helps prevent colon cancer.”
I remember standing there for a minute, like a statue, worrying a little about my colon and a lot about my mother.
But you know what I did when she left? Made my first pot of coffee. Then drank it.
I do not carry a picture of her in my wallet, but I carry several in my mind, complete with soundtracks.
One is of her sitting on the brick steps leading to the side door of my boyhood home in Carolina, blue jeans rolled up over her calves to just below her knees. An oversized shirt is untucked. Hair is falling into her eyes. She is shucking corn, happy, hollering something across the yard to our neighbors, toward the house with the 12 kids.
Here’s one of her singing School Daysto get me awake in the winter. And another of her frying an egg and putting it on a piece of toast for me before sunrise on all those priceless summer mornings before I’d go to Mr. Peabug’s or to Mr. J.P.’s to drive a Farmall through tobacco fields.
I carry pictures of her singing in church, each of us holding half the hymnbook, her looking down and smiling. Even in those moments, with What a Friend We Have in Jesusfilling the tiny wooden church and my mother brushing my hair with her hand, I’m sure she was wishing those days would slow downs. Little boys grow so fast …
In my favorite picture, my young mother is leaning out the screen door and calling me home for supper. I’m across the gravel road shooting basketball or in the woods in the back, and it is a summer evening and I smell like a little boy because that’s what I am. My mother’s voice, at dusk in the Carolina summer, is always there, always expected. When I think about it now, it sounds like music.
It’s not easy for a guy to come inside when he can still see the baseball (just barely), when the fireflies are dancing, when his legs still feel strong on his bike and his dog wants to play. She knew that, somehow. So she kept calling.
But if I could go back for one day, if I could hear her call me like that one more time, she’d have to call me only once.
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.
After finishing in third place in last year’s Division IV state tournament, Cedar Creek head coach Gene Vandenlangenberg thought his Cougars would be in for another tough competition this year.
However, Creek ran away and hid from the rest of the competition as the Cougars captured the school’s first boys team title in golf since 2013 with a 40-plus stroke victory over the field at at Farm d’ Allie Golf Club in Carencro Monday and Tuesday.
“It’s humbling and surreal,” said longtime Creek head coach Gene Vandenlangenberg, who won his first state title as a head coach at the school. “Deep down as you get older, you know these opportunities don’t come along very often. These kids have etched their names in the history of Cedar Creek. It’s a lifetime deal. I told our kid they can never take it away from you.”
After building a 12 stroke lead over Sacred Heart and an 18 stroke lead over Castor following Monday’s opening round, the Cougars posted a second round team total of 313 to lap the field. Sacred Heart was the runner-up, finishing 42 strokes behind the Cougars.
“These two rounds were two of our best of the year, and they came with the most on the line,” said Vandenlangenberg. “This was a fun group to coach this year. They really believed and they had high expectations. I was shocked by the margin we won by. Our guys were so steady and they answered the call.”
Junior Alex Roebuck, who captured the Division IV individual title last year, led Cedar Creek with a four-over-par 36-hole total of 148, good for second place. Berchman’s Academy’s Ivan Pop won the individual title with a seven-under-par total of 137.
“Alex played really, really well,” said Vandenlangenberg. “He just had one of those tournaments where he couldn’t get putts to fall. He struck the ball so well.”
The Cougars roster included one senior, one junior and three freshmen, but the youth movement didn’t impact Cedar Creek in the state tournament.
Freshman Jase Martin finished fifth with a two-round total of 11-over-par 155, while freshman George Pullin finished tied for eighth with a 163. Senior Cameron Temple tied for 13th with a 166. James Pullin rounded out the Cougar competitors with a 196 (42nd place).
Cedar Creek was one of two Lincoln Parish programs to compete in the Division IV state tournament as the Choudrant Aggies also qualified in only their second year of sponsoring a varsity program.
“We are very proud of our Lincoln Parish friends at Choudrant High,” said Vandenlangenberg. “Our kids and their kids really get along well. They truly pull for each other. I was so impressed with the Choudrant team and their kids. They represented their school in a first class manner.”
Carson Carrico tied for 13th overall to lead the Choudrant Aggies in the Division IV state championships held Monday and Tuesday at Farm d’ Allie Golf Club in Carencro.
Carrico’s two-round total of 166 (83-83) put him in a three-way tie with Cedar Creek’s Cameron Temple and Sacred Heart’s Wesley LaFleur as the Aggies finished eighth as a team in the eight-team championship field.
Cedar Creek captured the team title.
“I would like to first congratulate Cedar Creek on an outstanding season and accomplishment of winning the LHSAA division IV state title,” said Choudrant head coach William Bandy. “Their players and coaches are great guys and have worked hard to achieve this goal.”
Jackson Ambrose (34th, 87+95=182), Cooper Johnson (45th, 104+100=204), Sawyer Cunningham (46th, 104+113=217), and Kahless Carnahan (48th, 117+109=226) rounded out the Aggies competitors.
“I truly believe the lack of competitive experience got to us at state despite helping us at district and regionals,” said Bandy. “Our lack of competitive experience kind of helped us in district and regionals because we seemed to really play for each other with a care free spirit.
“On the biggest stage, we collectively let one bad shot turn into two or three added strokes on too many holes. We pressed a little too much and a challenging golf course covered in water will make you pay for little mistakes.”
Choudrant advanced to the state tournament in only its second year with a varsity boys program.
“I am so very proud of the Choudrant Aggies golf team,” said Bandy. “Each player contributed greatly to our success this season. Another great addition to our team this year was assistant coach Landon Wade. His knowledge and presence gave us a much needed lift to get to the next level.
“It’s nice to know that our 5 seniors were able to end their golf careers at Choudrant in the state championship tournament. Finishing the season as the second place public school in LHSAA Division IV is worth celebrating. We want to thank our administrators, faculty, student body, and community for their support.”
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 6 7-8 a.m.: Veterans Coffee Club (PJ’s Coffee) 11 a.m.: Library Technology Basics for Adults (Lincoln Parish Library) 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 7 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Kiwanis Club lunch and program (Trinity Methodist Church fellowship hall) 4 p.m.: Tween Time : Maracas (Lincoln Parish Library) 4:30-5:30 p.m.: Free meal sponsored by Halff Associates with 5 Loaves 2 Fish Ministry at the Ruston Housing Authority office at 901 MLK Dr. Ruston. We’re celebrating Cinco de Mayo with fajitas! Everyone is welcome. 5-7 p.m.: Fetch Art Show (111 E. Mississippi Ave., Ruston) 6 p.m.: Teen Time : Teen Advisory Board Meeting (Lincoln Parish Library) 6 p.m.: Southern A’Chord Chorus rehearsal (Presbyterian Church fellowship hall, 212 N. Bonner St.; open to all women singers)
Saturday, May 9 8:30-11:30 a.m.: Hazardous Waste Material Collection and Recycling (2609 Farmerville St.) 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Farmers Market 7:30 p.m.: Bull Riding Ruston Ramble (Lincoln Expo Center; for more information, call 318-372-4793)
Sunday, May 10 Mother’s Day
Monday, May 11 11:30 a.m.: Lunch on Us (Presbyterian Church, 212 North Bonner Street., Ruston) — everyone welcome 6 p.m.: AI for Real Life (Lincoln Parish Library) 6 p.m.: Toastmasters International meeting (Louisiana Center for the Blind, 101 South Trenton Street) 6-9 p.m.: Creative Meetups/Creative Potluck (Creatives at Work, 301 N. Trenton)
Tuesday, May 12 6:30 a.m.: Veterans free breakfast (VFW Post 3615, 206 Memorial Dr.) 10 a.m.: Storytime : Asian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month (Lincoln Parish Library) 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Hamburgers for Hunger fundraiser for 5 Loaves 2 Fish Ministry at the Ruston First Baptist Church parking lot (corner of Trenton and Texas). Tickets are $10 and available from board members and Origin Bank locations in downtown Ruston and on N. Trenton St. Tickets will also be available on site. 4 p.m.: Crafternoon : Cherry Blossom Bubble Wrap Paintings (Lincoln Parish Library) 6 p.m.: Video-Led Exercise class (Lincoln Parish Library Events Center) 7 p.m.: Lincoln Parish Police Jury meeting (Lincoln Parish Courthouse)
Wednesday, May 13 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 14 9:30 a.m.: Piney Hills Quilt Guild meeting (Grace Methodist Church) 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Kiwanis Club lunch and program (Trinity Methodist Church fellowship hall) 4 p.m.: Tween Time : Chinese Drum Craft (Lincoln Parish Library) 6 p.m.: Teen Time : Trivia Night (Lincoln Parish Library) 6 p.m.: Southern A’Chord Chorus rehearsal (Presbyterian Church fellowship hall, 212 N. Bonner St.; open to all women singers) 6 p.m.: La Tech baseball
Friday, May 15 4 p.m.: Family Fun Friday : Movie Night: Moana 2 (Lincoln Parish Library) 6 p.m.: LA Tech baseball
Saturday, May 16 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Farmers Market 1 p.m.: LA Tech baseball
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.
RUSTON — Ruston High School has named Bryan Chrislip as its new head softball coach, Principal Dan Gressett confirmed Tuesday.
Matt Belinson of the Ruston Daily Leader was the first to break the story.
Gressett said Chrislip emerged as the top candidate after conversations with coaches throughout the area during the search process.
“In conversations I had with coaches around the area Bryan’s name kept coming up,” Gressett said. “I reached out to him and (Athletics Director) Coach Jerrod Baugh and I met with him a few weeks ago. (New Principal) Mrs. Teri Howe then met with him, and we decided he was the person for the job.”
Chrislip takes over a Ruston softball program that Gressett said carries high expectations.
“The expectations at RHS are very high and I expect him to jump right in and get to work,” Gressett said. “He has a passion for the game and for coaching.”
Gressett also thanked former coach Lauren Garvie for her work with the Lady Bearcats program. After being hired in 2023, Garvie’s teams made the playoffs in two season. She let Gressett and the team know that she would be stepping down and returning to Texas to be closer to family.
“We do appreciate everything Lauren did for us in her time at RHS,” Gressett said. “We are in a much better place than we were when we hired her. But we are excited to see what Coach Chrislip brings to our program and to RHS.”
Louisiana Tech matched a program record with seven teams earning a perfect single-year Academic Progress Rate (APR) score of 1,000, according to data released Tuesday by the NCAA.
The seven perfect marks tie for the most in school history and highlight continued academic success across LA Tech Athletics. The programs achieving a 1,000 APR included men’s basketball (fourth time), women’s basketball (fourth time in the last seven years), bowling (15th time), women’s cross country (ninth time in the last 10 years), softball (fourth time in the last seven years), women’s tennis (10th time in the last 13 years), and women’s track and field (first time in program history).
All 16 Louisiana Tech Division I programs remained penalty-free, continuing a department-wide standard of academic achievement.
As a whole, LA Tech posted a combined multi-year APR of 979.8. Nine programs recorded multi-year scores of 980 or higher, including men’s cross country and women’s tennis, which both achieved perfect 1,000 multi-year rates. Women’s soccer (989) and women’s track and field (988) also set or matched program-best multi-year marks.
The APR measures the eligibility, retention, and graduation of student-athletes and serves as a key indicator of academic success and progress toward graduation.
Ruston’s City Council made a pair of key moves concerning Phase 2 of the Tarbutton Road-to-Grambling North Service Road Project during its May meeting Monday evening at City Hall.
The council approved an ordinance to annex approximately 115.5 acres of land into Ruston’s corporate limits for development of Phase 2 of the project. It also authorized the city to enter into an entity-state agreement with the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development related to the same project.
The council agreed to annex six parcels of land that will be used to develop the new service road, along with additional land for potential business development along the corridor.
“Each of the owners of the six parcels was approached with the annexation paperwork, and all agreed to sign the petitions. Those petitions have been certified by the registrar of voters and the Lincoln Parish tax assessor,” said City Attorney Bill Carter. “The proposed zoning of these properties will be designated as B-4 highway business, which is typical for a high-intensity business district.”
Public Works Director John Freeman said the agreement with DOTD will help fund the approximately one-mile section of road that will fall under the jurisdiction of the city of Ruston following annexation.
“Federal funds have been appropriated to finance a portion of the project under the administration of the Louisiana Department of Transportation,” Freeman said. “As always, when we are spending federal dollars, we enter into an entity-state agreement that spells out the do’s and don’ts — the whats and wherefores.”
The council also passed a resolution authorizing the city to enter into a contract related to the 2026 Road Project Phase I, awarding the low bid of $2,038,430 to Amethyst Construction of West Monroe, with a contract time of 135 days.
Streets included in the overlay project are Magnolia Drive, Saratoga Street, Lee Avenue, East Louisiana Avenue, East Texas Avenue, South Bonner Street, East Mississippi Avenue and Bernard Street.
Also approved was authorization for the city to enter into a cooperative endeavor agreement with the Lincoln Museum and Historical Society for the city to pay utility costs for the Lincoln Parish Museum, which average $2,000 annually.
The council also approved a resolution outlining actions the city will take regarding the Municipal Water Pollution Prevention Environmental Audit Report to maintain compliance and prevent effluent violations under requirements of the Louisiana Water Discharge Permit System.
After the resolution was approved, Freeman told the council the city had “finally” attained an A rating for its drinking water.
“That’s a tough thing to do,” Mayor Ronny Walker said.
The council also approved a resolution authorizing Walker to execute any agreements and documents with the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development’s Office of Multimodal Commerce related to planned work at Ruston Regional Airport.
New housing developments are also planned after the council approved preliminary plats for Country Club Estates and Pelican Pointe Unit 3, which will create 121 new housing lots.
Also approved were developmental plats for Twin Lakes 2022, Lakeview Place 2022 and Ruston Holdings LLC Development.
The council also authorized the start of the condemnation process for properties located at 1207 Jones St. and 2001 Beech St.
City Treasurer Julie Keen announced the city received its 11th consecutive unqualified (clean) audit report for 2025. The council then approved ordinances levying 2026 property taxes on all taxable property within the city.
(Lincoln Parish School Board Assistant Superintendent John Young)
Special to the LPJ
RUSTON, La. — The Lincoln Parish School Board is inviting the public to come meet with Assistant Superintendent John Young at the STEM Building on the campus of Ruston Junior High tonight from 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. as he will be the candidate interviewed at the formal session to follow.
At 6 p.m., the May 2026 session will be also held at the STEM Center. See full agenda attached below by clicking the link.
A Ruston man was arrested April 29 after officers executed a search warrant at a residence on North Chatham Road, according to an affidavit filed by the Ruston Police Department.
Antavion Bass, 22, was arrested at the residence following the recovery of drugs.
RPD located suspected marijuana, ecstasy, oxycodone and gabapentin inside a bedroom identified as belonging to Antavion Bass, according to the affidavit.
Officers found loose marijuana buds, a plastic bag containing marijuana, and a container holding multiple bags with a total weight of approximately 164.33 grams. Pills identified as oxycodone, gabapentin and suspected ecstasy were also recovered. Bass was also in possession of over $2,500 at the time of his arrest.
The affidavit states Bass was advised of his rights and acknowledged having marijuana in the residence.
Bass was booked into the Lincoln Parish Detention Center for possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, possession of MDMA (ecstasy) with intent to distribute, possession of oxycodone, and possession of a legend drug (gabapentin).
This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named or shown in photographs or video as suspects in a criminal investigation, or arrested and charged with a crime, have not been convicted of any criminal offense and are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
For the latest local news, subscribe FOR FREE to the Lincoln Parish Journal and receive an email each weekday morning at 6:55 right to your inbox.Just CLICK HERE to sign up.
My wife, Mary, bless her heart, proudly declares herself to be “indoorsy”. She just can’t understand why I seek adventures like running marathons, racing motorcycles, or skydiving. As I think back to younger days, I can see now that there were signs.
There definitely were signs.
I cannot recall exactly how I was approached about photographing the First Baptist Church of Arcadia. The church was undertaking a promotional project and needed black and white photographs of the building. I agreed, and I recall making deliberate efforts to capture shots from every conceivable angle and perspective. I couldn’t help but notice that the town water tower stood directly across from the church’s front entrance.
Hmmm.
I wondered whether the town of Arcadia would permit me to climb to the top of the tower and photograph the church from there. What was I thinking?
Ever since I was twelve years old, my summer employment had been painting houses alongside my father. I had spent several years climbing and hanging from extension ladders. While OSHA had been established by then, its regulations had not yet reached Bienville Parish. The previous summer, my father and I had painted the Cypress Springs Baptist Church in Sailes, Louisiana—a 150-year-old white wooden structure that still stands today, and where my dad was the pastor. We had a 32-foot ladder, but it fell short of reaching the gable on the church’s rear wall. Our solution? We positioned my father’s 1968 Ford pickup and placed the ladder in the truck bed, but that still proved insufficient. We returned home and retrieved our homemade ping-pong table, placing it in the truck bed as well.
Better, but still a bit too short. What was I thinking?
The next approach required some creative engineering. I decided to wire my paint brush to a broom handle. Our equipment was decidedly low-tech—state-of-the-art by 1940s standards, one might say, only this 1979. For instance, we took the wire bail handle from a gallon paint can, bent it into an “S” shape, and used it to suspend another paint can from the extension ladder’s rungs. Using a paint brush attached to a 4½-foot handle would prove challenging.
With everything assembled—truck, table, ladder, brush, and paint can with S-shaped bail—I positioned myself at the base of the ladder and looked upward. The fully extended 32-foot ladder had a pronounced bow in the middle, which I estimated at over a foot of deflection to one side. It resembled a banana. Well, I thought, it should work.
But first things first.
Nestled securely in the gable peak of the church was a substantial Louisiana red wasp nest—perhaps 10 inches in diameter and densely populated with these formidable creatures. What to do?
Back to creative problem-solving. The time-tested method (circa 1940s) for addressing such an obstacle involved a coffee can full of kerosene, or gasoline, and a willingness to abandon fear and caution. For those unfamiliar with this technique, the procedure is straightforward: climb to the top of the ladder, douse the nest with kerosene, and descend the ladder as rapidly as possible. I should note that descending a 32-foot ladder with a significant bow while moving at speed presents its own challenges.
Success is measured by getting stung only a little and managing not to fall and die.
Then you must climb the ladder again and dislodge the nest with your 4½-foot paint brush. You never eliminate all the wasps; they remain airborne and deliver additional stings.
Now you can finally paint? Not quite. With dozens of wasps still circling the evicted nest site, I take a standard paint brush and a can of paint and ascend the ladder once more.
We were using a quality exterior oil paint—none of the newfangled water-based latex products on this 150-year-old structure. With my head on a swivel, as the wasps attacked, I defended myself with my paint-covered brush. A tiny amount of oil paint is sufficient to disable a wasp, sending it spiraling earthward with a fresh coat of white paint. Only after dispatching a dozen or more of these aerial adversaries did I finally attend to painting the gable.
The result was not my finest work, but it was adequately covered. More importantly, I had survived and earned my $3 per hour. Before anyone gets bent out of shape about how my dad could make me do this, he didn’t. I did it because I knew if I didn’t, he would. I was 18 years old, weighed a hundred and nothing, and I could climb like a squirrel. He weighed over 200 and I wasn’t about to let him climb that ladder. He had two sons, so one was surely expendable, but I always figured it was the other one. (sorry Gary)
As I stood contemplating the water tower, the thought occurred to me: I can do that.
I proceeded to city hall and asked the police chief whether I might climb the tower to photograph the church. In what I can only describe as a lapse in judgment and a dereliction of duty, he granted permission. “OK,” he said. What was he thinking?
My constant companion and I, along with our cameras, approached the tower. My friend Mike James, camera in hand to document the endeavor, never once tried to talk me out of this poorly planned adventure. Perhaps he reasoned that if things went badly awry, his photographs might achieve a measure of fame. Documenting the tragedy.
Upon reaching the base of the tower where the ladder to the upper walkway begins, I observed that the ascent was not a conventional ladder but rather a zigzag pattern of bracing extending all the way to the top. So be it.
My experience with ladders and youthful invincibility, and perceived immortality, carried me to the top, where I discovered that the ladder providing access to the walkway consisted of steel rungs approximately 3/8 inch in diameter—roughly the thickness of a pencil. I decided to quit thinking.
Now facing that last part of the climb, I realized that I would need to lean backward and essentially hang from these pencil-thin rungs to proceed upward. This was unsettling.
Nevertheless, I managed to climb onto the 5-rung ladder and reach the walkway. Only then did I examine the welds securing the ladder to the tower. They should have been robust welds to the angle-iron, but the welder had fastened both sides using only a BB-sized drop of weld material, which had become rusty and corroded significantly over time. These welds did not inspire confidence, but instead only faith and hope.
What was I thinking?
Looking down from the top, I could see a few people had stopped to see the spectacle.
Since we are all here today, you know those welds held. I can attest that the descent was equally harrowing.
I obtained the photographs of the church. A drone would have been invaluable, but such technology lay four decades in the future.
My photographs did not bring me wealth or fame, and because those welds did not fail, Mike’s photographs remained similarly obscure, and the other people also left, probably a little disappointed that nothing really exciting happened. NASCAR is always more fun when they wreck.
Some risks are genuinely worthwhile; others, decidedly less so.
Two individuals were arrested April 29 in connection with a reported armed robbery on the Grambling State University campus, according to affidavits filed by university police.
GSU Police reported officers were dispatched at about 11 a.m. to investigate a robbery that occurred the previous evening near Mary McLeod Bethune Hall.
The victim told officers he was approached by three individuals at about 6 p.m. April 28. According to an arrest affidavit, one suspect displayed a handgun while another took the victim’s iPhone XR, vape devices and approximately $5. The victim reported being choked during the encounter.
One suspect, identified as Daejohn James, 19, of Grambling, was located in a dorm room at Robert B. Knott Hall. The victim identified James as the person who took the phone. The affidavit states James admitted grabbing the phone from the ground while another suspect was choking the victim.
A second suspect, Byron Williams, 20, of Long Beach, Calif., was located at another campus residence hall. The victim identified Williams as being involved in the incident. According to the affidavit, Williams admitted to being present and participating in the robbery.
Both individuals were charged with simple robbery and transported to the Lincoln Parish Detention Center.
This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named or shown in photographs or video as suspects in a criminal investigation, or arrested and charged with a crime, have not been convicted of any criminal offense and are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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If you grew up in the 1960s, you probably remember a time when home appliances were built like tanks, weighed like tractors, and behaved like mischievous cousins who couldn’t be trusted. Ours certainly did. We had a refrigerator with only one big outer door, and inside that door—like a frosty little secret—was the freezer compartment. It was the kind of setup that made sense only to engineers who had never met actual children.
The top hinge of that refrigerator had screws that were, shall we say, “spiritually backslidden.” They were stripped, worn, and holding on by the power of prayer alone. If you opened the door too quickly or too wide, the hinge would give up entirely, leaving the entire refrigerator door hanging by the bottom hinge like a drunk uncle leaning on a lamppost.
And when that happened, it made a noise. A loud noise. A noise that said, “Someone is trying to sneak a popsicle.”
My mother, who possessed the hearing of a bat and the reflexes of a ninja, would shout from the other room, “Fix the door!” And we kids would scramble like we were disarming a bomb. Because in the 60s, you didn’t sneak snacks. You attempted them. And you were usually caught.
The tea pitcher lived in that refrigerator too, which meant that even the simple act of getting a drink of tea required the stealth of a Navy SEAL. The door could be opened quietly, but children in the 60s were not careful. We were loud, clumsy, sugar-motivated creatures who believed we were invisible as long as we whispered.
Looking back, that refrigerator door was more than a household hazard. It was a spiritual formation tool. It taught us patience, discipline, and the consequences of lukewarm commitment. Because if you approached that door casually—halfheartedly, carelessly—it betrayed you. Every time.
And isn’t that a picture of the Christian life?
Revelation talks about being hot or cold, but not lukewarm. Lukewarm is what happens when we try to follow Jesus casually, quietly, or only when we think no one is watching. Lukewarm faith is refrigerator door faith: it looks sturdy from the outside, but the hinges are loose, the screws are stripped, and the whole thing falls apart the moment life swings too wide.
But when we approach our faith with intention—with reverence, steadiness, and a little holy fear—we discover that the door holds. The hinges strengthen. The whole thing works the way it was meant to.
That old refrigerator is long gone, but the lesson remains: a life of faith can’t be sneaked into or stumbled through. It must be opened with purpose.
And if you ever doubt that, just remember: God hears everything. Even the sound of a kid trying to steal a popsicle.
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The opinions in this letter do not necessarily reflect those of the publishing staff of the Lincoln Parish Journal.
The Ruston Voters League strongly condemns the ongoing assault on the Voting Rights Act and the dangerous implications of the opinion rendered in Callais vs. Louisiana. At a time when voter access should be protected and expanded, we are instead witnessing calculated efforts to weaken and manipulate the democratic process.
Governor Landry’s proposed response is not only reckless—it is wasteful and harmful. His actions would squander taxpayer dollars by disrupting an election process already underway. Thousands of citizens have already cast their mail-in ballots in good faith. To now introduce uncertainty and potential interference is an insult to those voters and a blatant disregard for responsible governance.
Let us be clear: this will create chaos. It will confuse voters. And most troubling, it will discourage participation—especially among seniors, working-class citizens, and marginalized communities who already face barriers to voting. When people begin to question whether their vote will count, democracy itself is weakened.
We are also calling out members of the Republican Legislature: stop blindly following political talking points that undermine the rights of the people you were elected to serve. Stop embracing the divisive and misleading rhetoric coming from Governor Landry and Donald Trump. Louisiana deserves leadership—not loyalty to political “kool-aid” that erodes public trust and damages our democratic institutions.
This is bigger than politics. This is about right and wrong. This is about whether we honor the voices of our citizens or silence them through confusion, suppression, and neglect.
We urge every citizen to take action now. Contact your legislators and demand that they protect the integrity of our elections. Speak out in your communities, attend public meetings, and refuse to be silent while voting rights are threatened. Most importantly, remain engaged and committed to participating in every election—because the most powerful response to suppression is participation.
The Ruston Voters League will not be silent. We stand firmly in defense of free, fair, and accessible elections—and we call on all leaders of conscience to do the same.
Respectfully, Veda B. Emerson, President Ruston Voters League
MONROE, La. — Ruston High School’s tennis program capped its season with its strongest performance in more than 10 years at the Division II state tournament held this past weekend in Monroe.
The Bearcats’ boys team tied for fifth place overall, while the Lady Bearcats finished fourth in the team standings, highlighting a deep and balanced showing across both singles and doubles competition.
Ruston placed multiple doubles teams among the top finishers. The duos of Carson Williams and Reeves Kilpatrick, Millie Keen and Mabry Doucet, and Alyssa Langiulli and Eva Allen each advanced to the round of 32. Roan Sutherland and Hoss Flournoy pushed deeper into the bracket, finishing in the top 16.
Libby Morgan and Bess Black delivered one of the top performances for Ruston in doubles, advancing to the quarterfinals to finish among the top eight teams in the state.
In singles play, Leighton Brumley and Micah Blount both reached the round of 16. Jake Hawkins advanced to the quarterfinals, securing a top-eight finish.
Lillian Fendley led the Lady Bearcats with the deepest run of the tournament, reaching the semifinals and finishing among the top four competitors in Division II.
Ruston head coach David Poe credited the team’s success to consistent effort throughout the season.
“The results show how hard these kids have worked,” Poe said. “Great effort yields great results. I’m so proud of my team.”
The overall results underscore continued growth for the Ruston program, which placed multiple athletes in the later rounds and recorded its best combined team finish in over a decade.
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 5 6:30 a.m.: Veterans free breakfast (VFW Post 3615, 206 Memorial Dr.) 10 a.m.: Storytime : Tacos (Lincoln Parish Library) 4 p.m.: Crafternoon : Taco Cards (Lincoln Parish Library) 6 p.m : Video-Led Exercise class (Lincoln Parish Library Events Center) 6 p.m.: Lincoln Parish School Board meeting (Lincoln Parish STEM Center, 525 Tarbutton Rd.) 6 p.m.: LA Tech baseball
Wednesday, May 6 7-8 a.m.: Veterans Coffee Club (PJ’s Coffee) 11 a.m.: Library Technology Basics for Adults (Lincoln Parish Library) 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 7 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Kiwanis Club lunch and program (Trinity Methodist Church fellowship hall) 4 p.m.: Tween Time : Maracas (Lincoln Parish Library) 4:30-5:30 p.m.: Free meal sponsored by Halff Associates with 5 Loaves 2 Fish Ministry at the Ruston Housing Authority office at 901 MLK Dr. Ruston. We’re celebrating Cinco de Mayo with fajitas! Everyone is welcome. 5-7 p.m.: Fetch Art Show (111 E. Mississippi Ave., Ruston) 6 p.m.: Teen Time : Teen Advisory Board Meeting (Lincoln Parish Library) 6 p.m.: Southern A’Chord Chorus rehearsal (Presbyterian Church fellowship hall, 212 N. Bonner St.; open to all women singers)
Saturday, May 9 8:30-11:30 a.m.: Hazardous Waste Material Collection and Recycling (2609 Farmerville St.) 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Farmers Market 7:30 p.m.: Bull Riding Ruston Ramble (Lincoln Expo Center; for more information, call 318-372-4793)
Sunday, May 10 Mother’s Day
Monday, May 11 11:30 a.m.: Lunch on Us (Presbyterian Church, 212 North Bonner Street., Ruston) — everyone welcome 6 p.m.: AI for Real Life (Lincoln Parish Library) 6 p.m.: Toastmasters International meeting (Louisiana Center for the Blind, 101 South Trenton Street) 6-9 p.m.: Creative Meetups/Creative Potluck (Creatives at Work, 301 N. Trenton)
Tuesday, May 12 6:30 a.m.: Veterans free breakfast (VFW Post 3615, 206 Memorial Dr.) 10 a.m.: Storytime : Asian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month (Lincoln Parish Library) 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Hamburgers for Hunger fundraiser for 5 Loaves 2 Fish Ministry at the Ruston First Baptist Church parking lot (corner of Trenton and Texas). Tickets are $10 and available from board members and Origin Bank locations in downtown Ruston and on N. Trenton St. Tickets will also be available on site. 4 p.m.: Crafternoon : Cherry Blossom Bubble Wrap Paintings (Lincoln Parish Library) 6 p.m.: Video-Led Exercise class (Lincoln Parish Library Events Center) 7 p.m.: Lincoln Parish Police Jury meeting (Lincoln Parish Courthouse)
Wednesday, May 13 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 14 9:30 a.m.: Piney Hills Quilt Guild meeting (Grace Methodist Church) 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Kiwanis Club lunch and program (Trinity Methodist Church fellowship hall) 4 p.m.: Tween Time : Chinese Drum Craft (Lincoln Parish Library) 6 p.m.: Teen Time : Trivia Night (Lincoln Parish Library) 6 p.m.: Southern A’Chord Chorus rehearsal (Presbyterian Church fellowship hall, 212 N. Bonner St.; open to all women singers) 6 p.m.: La Tech baseball
Friday, May 15 4 p.m.: Family Fun Friday : Movie Night: Moana 2 (Lincoln Parish Library) 6 p.m.: LA Tech baseball
Saturday, May 16 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Farmers Market 1 p.m.: LA Tech baseball
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