Join our community in keeping Ruston clean and green! Our recycling program is now available both inside and outside the city limits (within 3 miles of Ruston city limits) at a monthly cost of $10.
How to Sign Up Ready to get started? Click the link below to access the sign-up form that corresponds to your location.
Once you sign up, we will deliver a recycling bin to your home.
Weekly Pickup Schedule
Monday garbage pickup route will have their recycling picked up every Thursday. Tuesday garbage pickup route will have their recycling picked up every Friday.
Important Reminder
Please place your recycling bin at the public road on collection days. Our trucks are unable to access private property.
Thank you for helping us keep Ruston sustainable! If you have any questions, feel free to reach out.
The Episcopal Church of the Redeemer cordially invites all Ruston and Lincoln Parish residents to join us at the Church of the Redeemer on Christmas Eve as we, with great joy and thanksgiving, celebrate the glorious birth of Jesus Christ, our Lord.
The special, solemn Christmas Service of the Nativity will begin at 5 p.m. on December 24th at the Church of the Redeemer, 504 Tech Drive, in Ruston. Everyone is welcome. (Note: There will be NO service on Christmas Day).
May Jesus Christ, who by His incarnation gathered in one, things earthly and heavenly, fill you with joy and peace; and may the blessing of God Almighty, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, be among you and remain with you always. Amen.
Due to the forecast calling for temperatures dipping into the low 30s and high 20s, the previously scheduled and advertised Movie Night at North Village Food Park has been canceled for Saturday night.
North Village Food Park project manager and owner of Lola’s Teriyaki said that he felt the weather was not conducive to the event.
“I think between the cold temperatures and the fact so many people are sick right now, it’s just better for us to cancel this one,” said Lopez. “We were really looking forward to it, but with Christmas next week, this is the best decision.”
North Village Food Park opened in October and currently includes Lola’s Teriyaki, Big Boyz Smokehouse, Jay’s Wings and Things, and
Located at 2102 Timberline Court along East Kentucky Avenue adjacent to North Village Apartments, North Village Food Park currently consists of Lola’s Teriyaki, Big Boyz Smokehouse, SaborMex Taqueria and Jay’s Wings and Things.
Hours of food operation include:
Lola’s Teriyaki: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. (Tuesday thru Thursday); 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. (Friday and Saturday)
Big Boyz Smokehouse: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. (Tuesday thru Saturday)
Sabormex: Tuesday thru Sunday (11 a.m. to 7 p.m.)
Jay’s Wings and Things: Tuesday thru Saturday (11 a.m. to 3 p.m.)
Christmas week the holiday schedule for all food vendors will be Monday, Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
In addition to the pavilion and the food vendors, North Village Food Park includes an existing playground built a few years ago. However, it was recently renovated and upgraded to better serve the foot traffic.
On the front side of the food truck park closest to East Kentucky Avenue is an area for games and other forms of entertainment, including corn hole, horseshoes, picnic tables, and movie nights and game nights.
Mallory is my daughter-in-law. She was here this last weekend. There was a shopping adventure on Saturday and that evening she was wrapped the presents. Mallory is one of “those” gift wrappers. I stood and watched her wrap gifts. With engineering precision, she made one cut of the wrapping paper. The ends of the gifts wrapped were perfect. She used a minimum amount of tape. She did it with the skill of a neurosurgeon and the speed of a NASCAR pit crew member. I gave up attempts at gift wrapping decades ago. A gift bag is a blessing for people like me.
Mallory was so peaceful as she was wrapping at the speed of light.
This time of year, requires speed. Everyone promises it to us. The Postal Service, UPS, and FedEx promise they are the speediest. I’m waiting for one of them to promise overnight delivery on Christmas Eve. Although I think St. Nick and the Elf union would fight that infringement on their gig. Amazon has amazing speed, but you pay for it. Their free delivery takes from 3-5 business days, or you can opt for their expensive express delivery which will arrive in 4-6 business days. In many cases the free shipping is quicker than the express shipping you pay for. Go figure.
Here’s the thing, I’m wondering if we should be working on our “slowing skills.”
I lived in Natchitoches for ten years. I loved the Christmas lights! At the residential end of the Church Street bridge there is a sign that says Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. The challenge is that the traffic lights are directly in front of the sign. So, if you are a visitor to that city and you don’t know that secret, you often are challenged to see and follow the traffic lights.
I remember one evening trying to hurry home across the Church Street bridge.
In front of me was a van from the state of Hittite. (Don’t want to tell you the state lest I offend.) This van was driving 2 miles an hour over the bridge at 5:30 p.m. These out-of-state guests were looking at the wonderful light display on the other side of the river. This nice van driver speeding at two miles an hour looking at the lights was not looking at the road. Twice the van hit the curb on the Church Street Bridge. That is no small curb. They didn’t seem too bothered by their dual collisions with the curb. At the end of the road, they stopped at the green light. They met the big sign hiding the traffic lights. I waited patiently for as long as I could stand it, then I sent them an audible automotive suggestion that they complete their right turn.
Paul wrote, “But when the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law.” I wonder how long it took for time to fully come? Christmas day is getting ever closer.
Maybe we would be more faithful witnesses to our faith if we learned some slowing skills. Be patient with people in the parking lot, the check-out line, over worked wait staff in the diner, and those you love who are also caught in the Christmas speed trap. Be patient with those who are having their first Christmas without loved ones or without their children being home. Practice patience with those who are not moving at the same Christmas speed.
Learn “slowing skills” and wait, Christmas always arrives on time.
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 Ruston woman was arrested Monday following an altercation in which she allegedly pointed a gun at several people.
Trakecia Q. Armstrong, 39, was charged with aggravated assault after an investigation by the Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s Office.
A group reported an confrontation about a cell phone during the early morning hours of December 16. The group said there had been a physical altercation with two men and then their mother, Trakecia Armstrong, showed up. She reportedly brandished a handgun, pointing it in the air, but then pointing it directly at the victims.
Several hours later, the group returned to the Sheriff’s Office to report they were meeting the two men there to return the phone. Instead of the two men, Armstrong arrived with the phone in question.
Armstrong was questioned by deputies. She said her sons and the other parties were involved in a fight. She admitted brandishing a handgun but said she pointed it in the air in an attempt to deescalate the situation. She denied pointing it directly at anyone.
Based on witness statements and Armstrong’s own admission, she was arrested and booked at the Lincoln Parish Detention Center. Armstrong’s bail was not available at publication time.
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.
Each Monday and 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.
Friday, Dec. 20 5-8 p.m.: Movie and ice skating (Ruston Sports Complex) 6 p.m.: Ruston Christmas Parade
Saturday, Dec. 21 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Farmers Market 9-11 a.m.: Cookies and Cocoa with Santa (Ruston Sports Complex) Noon to 5 p.m.: Ice skating (Ruston Sports Complex) 3 p.m.: LA Tech men’s basketball game
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 — Six Lady Techsters scored in double figures as Louisiana Tech used a multifaceted approach to secure the victory over Central Baptist 112-42 Thursday night in the Thomas Assembly Center.
Robyn Lee and Paris Bradley had 17 points apiece to lead the way for LA Tech (6-4). Autumn Smith set a career high with 15 points on 5-6 from the 3-point line. Taylor Rietveld (13), Jianna Morris (10), and Melissa Mwanza (10) all finished in double figures.
The Lady Techsters took advantage of the size difference to rack up 60 points in the paint while also tying for the second-most 3s in a game in program history with 13.
Tech came into the game averaging just over four 3-pointers a game, but they hit that number after the first quarter. Morris knocked down an uncontested three on the opening possession to it started. Lee, Bradley, and Smith each connected from long range in the first.
With the defense having to come out more, the Lady Techsters used their size to add 14 points in the paint to go up 30-13 after one. Eight of the 10 players that saw action in the first scored. Central Baptist (5-5) had no answer for Mwanza down low in the second. The sophomore had eight of her points in the quarter to go along with three rebounds. LA Tech extended the lead to 59-27 going into the locker room.
Tech came out of the half with a Morris jumper and another three by Bradley before going cold for a stretch. The Lady Techsters would not convert on their next four possessions. They would bounce back and score 25 over the final five and a half minutes of the stanza.
The Lady Techsters finished shooting 57.0 percent (45-79) from the field, 48.1 percent (13-27) from long range, and 9-11 from the charity stripe. Jordan Marshall and Isla Airey had seven rebounds to lead a group of six players with five or more boards. Lee added seven assists, while Averi Aaron added nine points and Sydney Thomas had seven.
Central Baptist shot 28.3 percent from the field and 29.0 percent from deep. Raigan Head finished with over half of their points at 23.
The Lady Techster will break for Christmas before returning to the court against LSU-Alexandria on December 30 at 6:30 p.m. CT in the Thomas Assembly Center. The game will be streamed on ESPN+.
GRAMBLING, La. | The Grambling State University men’s basketball team couldn’t get back in the win column on Thursday night, falling to Delaware State 73-60 to open the Toyota Chris Paul HBCU Classic presented by Walmart at the Mohegan Sun Arena.
James Flippin led GSU (2-8) with 14 points to go along with six rebounds and one assist.
The Tigers, who’ve been one of the better three-point shooting teams in the nation, struggled from behind the arc, going 4-of-24 (16.7 percent). Grambling State shot 37.9 percent from floor (22-of-58).
The first half was tightly contested with Delaware State working to a slim halftime lead.
With Delaware State leading 4-0, Cilaydrien Newton scored Grambling State’s first points on deep 3-pointer with 18:29 on the clock.
Trailing 16-12 with 12:58 to go until halftime, the Tigers used a 7-0 run capped by a trey from PJ Edwards to claim a 19-16 lead with 11:35 remining in the half. A free throw by Ernest Ross made a 20-16 game.
The Hornets closed the half on with a 13-5 run to take a 29-25 lead into the break.
In the second half, DSU quickly pushed its advantage to double figure, lead 40-30 with 14:23 left in the contest,
Following a pair of free throws, from Kintavious Dozier, Ernest Ross’ 3-points trimmed the deficit to five, making it a 40-35 game with 13:44 on the clock.
After the Hornets pushed their lead back to 10, GSU used a quick 6-0 spurt to make it trim the deficit to 45-41 at the 10:20 mark. Delaware State would seize control of the rest of the game, utilizing 12-3 run to grab its largest lead of the game, 57-44 with 5:21 remaining.
The Hornets maintained its distance to secure the 73-60 win.
Delaware State was paced offensively by Robert Smith who score a game-high 16 points with five rebounds and four assists.
A graveside funeral service for Alton L. Pilcher, age 87 of Choudrant, LA, will be held at 2:30 PM, Sunday, December 22, 2024 at Choudrant Memorial Cemetery with Mr. Jim Davis officiating. Services are under the direction of Owens Memorial Chapel Funeral Home of Ruston, LA.
Alton L. Pilcher was born January 13, 1937 and passed away December 19, 2024. Alton retired from AT&T where he had worked worldwide. After his retirement he enjoyed being in the outdoors, spending time with his wife Joann, and spending time with his family. He and Joann loved their great-grandchildren dearly and enjoyed being with them. He was known to his family as “Grandpa Alton”. Mr. Alton loved his dogs Nel and Penny. He was a devout Christian and found great pleasure in reading his Bible. He loved listening to, and playing music. To know him was to love him.
Alton is preceded in death by his wife, Joann Pilcher; his parents, Charles Clifton Pilcher and Leslie Frazier Pilcher; and his siblings, Elizabeth Hood, Charles Lester Pilcher, and Lorene Aulds.
Mr. Pilcher is survived by his brother, Doyle Pilcher and his wife Katie; his sister, Devone Pilcher; his son, Bobby J. Milner and his wife Barbara; a grandson, Brandon J. Milner; a granddaughter, Bethany Hearne and her husband Jacob; and four great-grandchildren, Emma Barber, Ella Milner, Tucker Hearne, and Ava Hearne.
Alton Luther Pilcher January 13, 1937 – December 19, 2024 Graveside Service: Sunday, December 22, 2024, 2:30 PM, Choudrant Memorial Cemetery, Jones St., Choudrant
Louisiana Tech University Professor Dr. John Matthews was recognized in November as the 2024 United States Fellow of the International Society for Trenchless Technology (ISTT) at the annual international conference and board meeting in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
At the same event, he was also re-elected to serve on the organization’s international board of directors. Other board members elected to serve three-year terms hail from Brazil, Finland, Germany, Colombia, and Great Britain.
Matthews is a three-time graduate of Louisiana Tech: a bachelor’s degree in construction engineering technology in 2004, a master’s in civil engineering in 2006, and a PhD in civil engineering in 2010. After working in the industry for six years in Baton Rouge, he returned to Tech in 2017 as a professor and director of the Trenchless Technology Center (TTC) and holds an Eminent Scholar Chair in Construction Engineering Technology.
“Serving on a board of directors is not only good for Louisiana Tech and the College of Engineering and Science but also helps with research and workforce development,” Matthews said. “Companies reach out to me weekly looking to fill open roles with the prepared graduates that TTC is producing.”
An active member of professional associations, Matthews has served previously on the board of directors for both the North American Society for Trenchless Technology (NASTT) and an Associate Editor for the ASCE Journal of Pipeline Systems Engineering and Practice. In 2023, he was honored as the Trenchless Technology Person of the Year. Additionally, he has been the chair of the ISTT’s Technology and Education Committee since 2022 and has authored or co-authored more than 300 publications and delivered more than 200 presentations at national and international conferences.
Dr. Collin Wick, dean of the College of Engineering and Science, is especially grateful for the leadership and expertise Dr. Matthews brings to the college.
“John’s leadership on both a national and international level highlights his expertise and commitment to advancing the college’s mission. His efforts enable the development of engineers who address global challenges, drive innovation, and shape a sustainable, technologically-driven future,” said Wick. “His being named a 2024 Fellow further elevates Louisiana Tech’s reputation on an international stage.”
The Gregg Phillips State Farm Agency is proud to recognize Kaejha Stewart from A.E. Phillips Laboratory School as their Good Neighbor of the Month winner for December 2024.
Kaejha is in 7th grade and was nominated by the A. E. Phillips’ administration and teachers because of her dedication to serving her school and community.
As a part of the Ruston Community and A. E. Phillips Lab School, Kaejha does;
🐾 Service projects at church and sings in the church choir
🐾 Participates in Girl Scout projects
🐾 Is a member of the community theater
🐾 Crochets stuffies for the Children’s Hospital
Gregg Phillips State Farm recognizes a student each month in Lincoln Parish who has dedicated their time and talents to bettering our community and for being the example of what a Good Neighbor is all about.
Congratulations Kaejha on this achievement and thank you for all that you do to better our community.
At the Ford Center in Frisco, Texas, the oversized black curtain separated basketball games for the final time in the 2023 Conference USA Tournament.
That notorious fabric, the backdrop of Louisiana Tech’s court A battle versus North Texas, also closed on Talvin Hester‘s first season as head coach of the Bulldogs.
Final score – LA Tech 46, North Texas 74.
Not a star moment at the Star.
It was after that punched-in-the-mouth defeat at the Dallas Cowboys practice facility when Hester knew, really knew, that he needed a quarterback of his own … aka a point guard.
“There are very few Super Bowl champions that won with a bad quarterback,” said Hester. “It is a position that you must start with when you build a team. In basketball, it’s the point guard position.”
Instead of taking his usual front seat on the charter bus back to Ruston, he and assistant coach Darshawn McClellan drove to Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport. Their destination … Lemoore, California. Their reason … Sean Newman Jr.
“We flew all night and went to see him play the next morning in the California Community College Final Four,” recalled Hester. “We wanted to see him before his season ended to show him how much we wanted him.”
Newman Jr., a slender 6-foot-1, 160-pound point guard with a pencil mustache and business-like demeanor, was in the process of leading Fullerton College to a CCCAA state championship.
Long before he was being recruited to come to LA Tech, Sean was growing up in the entertainment capital of the world that is Los Angeles.
“I was about 15 minutes from the beach. You did not have to go very far to find something to do. I would see professional basketball players from time to time, like when me and my parents were out eating at a breakfast spot and saw Shaun Livingston. My parents pointed him out, so I wanted to take a picture with him. I feel bad now that I think about it. He was with his lady just trying to eat some food.
“I was more of a home body though.”
He admitted he was not a big fan of the beach as a kid. Took a couple of trips to Disneyland though. Visited the Santa Monica pier a few times. Did make regular trips to In-N-Out, a California staple (his go to — 3×3, grilled onions, with fries and lemonade).
Mostly though, Sean remembers spending time with his family and his other family at Calvary Chapel Inglewood. And playing two-hand touch football and basketball in the streets, stopping games only to let cars go by.
Car! Game on!
There was also playing hoops at nearby Darby Park, getting coached by his dad who he did NOT get his height from.
“My dad is 6-5, my mom is 5-7. Pretty sure I took the height from my mom’s side because her brothers and dad are all short. I was probably like 5-9, 130 pounds playing in high school at Culver City.
“I have been a late bloomer my whole life. Looking back there was no way I was ready to come straight out of high school and play Division I.”
Instead, Sean took the 45-minute trek to Fullerton College (or an hour and a half depending on traffic because well, it’s LA).
“My head coach at Fullerton named Perry Webster, he reached out to me and laid out a perfect plan. It made the most sense. I knew I did not want to go to prep school across the country. I was not ready at that time in my life. Really it was all God, working everything out for me.”
After a shortened freshman season with the Hornets due to injury, Sean lost only once as a sophomore. 13.2 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 5.8 assists per game, and 32 wins. Sixteen of those were in league play, resulting in the Orange Empire Conference regular season title. The last victory was that over San Francisco in the CCCAA title game.
“My pulse in Texas is really good because I am from there, but I spent time as an assistant at San Jose State,” said Hester. “California has been a part of the country where I have been able to find some recruits over the years. When you go to major cities like Los Angeles, a lot of players get lost.
“When I saw Sean, he made all the right plays. His team functioned at a high rate. He was what made the team go.”
Was coach worried about Sean’s small stature? Nope. Was he concerned about Sean’s lack of interest from other schools? Not at all. Was he hesitant about Sean being able to make the jump from juco to DI? Negative.
The exact moment Hester knew he really wanted Sean as his point guard was when he went to see him play Orange Coast.
“They were up like 30 in the second half and there was a loose ball. There was every reason that 99 percent of players in America would have just let the loose ball go out of bounds. Sean dives on the floor, gets the loose ball, and starts a fast break for his team. That was a winning play, even though they would win by like 50. Those are guys you want. He valued a possession that did not matter. I knew at that point that he knew what it took to win.”
“Coach Hester was a great recruiter,” said Newman Jr. who had never heard of Louisiana Tech before getting a call out of the blue with a scholarship offer. “He laid out a perfect plan and everything made sense. He came out to California twice to see me and that is not an easy trip to make. That meant a lot to me.”
What Sean discovered in Ruston was a small town with few distractions where he could work on his game and be around people that believed in him.
And less traffic of course. I-20 ain’t exactly the 405.
Undersized, overlooked. All Sean did in year one with the Bulldogs was help lead the team to a 22-win season and lead Conference USA in assists, earning him Honorable Mention All-CUSA honors.
Oh, and remember that game at Western Kentucky when he had 19 points, seven rebounds, and eight assists? Peak Sean Newman Jr. in 2023-24.
Year two Sean has taken things to another level … as in leading not just the team and CUSA in assists, but the entire country with 108 dimes through 12 games.
Fastest Bulldog ever to 100 assists in a single season. Already has five games of 10+ assists, tied for the third most in program history. Has a team-leading three double-doubles.
Plus, we experienced a new peak Sean Newman Jr. this past Monday, going for a career-high 25 points as well as nine assists in a 74-66 win over WAC preseason favorite Grand Canyon. Now the squad, which Sean stated “has not even come close to being the team we want to be or can be” is off to a 10-2 start, their best since 2015.
“Being away from home the first year, that is shocking for any kid and he in particular from across the country,” said Hester on the growth from last season to this season. “Now he is settled in. His whole life, he did not get recruited, was undervalued. You finally get to a place where people see his talent and see that he is that guy, I think his confidence has grown because of it.”
Passed over by many in middle school, high school, and juco, Sean has most certainly made a name for himself in the other LA.
“I could have easily given up many times,” admitted Sean. “A lot of the credit goes to my dad because he instilled a work ethic in me at a very early age. I just always kept working, kept grinding because you never know how things will turn out.”
Following the victory over GCU, Hester was posed with a question about Sean being underrated nationally.
The Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) has detected the first presumptive positive human case of highly pathogenic avian influenza, or H5N1, in the state. The individual is a resident of southwest Louisiana and is currently hospitalized.
LDH’s Office of Public Health is coordinating with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on the investigation. The investigation learned the individual had exposure to sick and dead birds that are suspected to have been infected with H5N1.
H5N1 is a type of influenza virus that causes highly infectious and severe respiratory disease in birds. In the United States, outbreaks of the currently circulating H5N1 avian influenza viruses in wild birds and poultry have been ongoing since 2022. As of December 13, 60 confirmed human cases of H5N1 have been reported across the U.S., with the majority linked to exposure to infected poultry or dairy cows. There has been no human-to-human virus transmission in the U.S. to date.
While the current public health risk for the general public is low, people who work with birds, poultry or cows, or have recreational exposure to them, are at higher risk.
The best way to protect yourself and your family from H5N1 is to avoid sources of exposure. That means avoiding direct contact with wild birds and other animals infected with or suspected to be infected with bird flu viruses. LDH recommends the following to avoid infection:
Do not touch sick or dead animals or their droppings and do not bring sick wild animals into your home.
Keep pets away from sick or dead animals and their feces.
Do not eat uncooked or undercooked food. Cook poultry, eggs and other animal products to the proper temperature and prevent cross-contamination between raw and cooked food.
Avoid uncooked food products such as unpasteurized raw milk or cheeses from animals that have a suspected or confirmed infection.
If you work on poultry or dairy farms, talk to your provider about getting your seasonal flu vaccination. It will not prevent infection with avian influenza viruses, but it can reduce the risk of coinfection with avian and flu viruses.
Report dead or sick birds or animals to the USDA toll-free at 1-866-536-7593 or the LA Department of Agriculture and Forestry Diagnostic Lab in Homer at 318-927-3441.
If a commercial poultry flock is affected, immediately quarantine the premises and bird(s) and limit exposure to birds until regulatory officials can respond or direct the veterinarian regarding an appropriate course of action.
If you have been exposed to sick or dead birds or other animals or work on a farm where avian influenza has been detected, watch for respiratory symptoms or conjunctivitis. If you get symptoms within 10 days after exposure to sick or dead animals, tell your healthcare provider you have been in contact with sick animals and are concerned about avian influenza. This will help them give you appropriate advice on testing and treatment. Stay home and away from others while you have symptoms.
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.
On Tuesday, December 17, 2024, shortly before 7:00 p.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop F began investigating a single-vehicle fatal crash involving a pedestrian on Louisiana Highway 34 at its intersection with East Bawcom Street. The crash claimed the life of 78-year-old Carolyn Hudson of West Monroe.
The preliminary investigation revealed the crash occurred as Hudson walked across the westbound lane of Louisiana Highway 34. At the same time, a 2010 Chrysler Town and Country was traveling west on Louisiana Highway 34. For reasons still under investigation, Hudson was struck by the Chrysler.
Hudson suffered fatal injuries and died at the scene. The driver of the Chrysler was properly restrained and uninjured. Although impairment is not suspected, routine toxicology samples were collected and will be submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.
Pedestrian safety is of paramount importance when walking near and crossing roadways. To stay safe, pedestrians should always walk while facing oncoming traffic. Doing this, allows pedestrians to see oncoming vehicles and react appropriately. Additionally, when walking at night, wear brightly colored clothing or reflective gear to make it easier for drivers to see them. These simple yet vital precautions can help keep pedestrians safe and reduce the likelihood of crashes on the road.
Man interferes with officer investigating complaint
A Deville man was arrested last week when he interfered with a Ruston police officer issuing a summons to a homeowner on a loud music complaint.
Ruston Police responded to an Arthur Drive residence on December 13 regarding loud music. At about 2:00 a.m., on the third call to return to the residence because the music was continuing, an officer attempted to write a summons to the resident to appear in court.
While writing the summons, the officer was approached by Colton Hardy, 20, who stood between the officer and the homeowner in a threatening manner. Hardy was taken into custody, and the summons was issued.
When asked why he interfered with the officer, Hardy said, “I saw my friend talking with a cop, and I wanted to get him away from you.” Hardy provided his name but refused to provide his date of birth on three occasions.
Hardy was advised of the charges against him and taken to the Lincoln Parish Detention Center. A THC vaping device (marijuana) was found in his pants pocket, but he said it was not his.
Hardy was booked for disturbing the peace by being intoxicated in public, interfering with a law enforcement officer, resisting an officer by failure to provide identification, and possession of marijuana.
Hardy’s bail was at at $3,500.
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.
This is a letter to the 2024 Ruston Bearcat football team, particularly to the seniors who have led this team through the 2024 season:
Although I am not a Bearcat by birth, coming from East Texas, high school football has been in my blood since I could walk, talk, and cheer. But unlike many Bearcat alumni, I have walked the halls of 900 Beacat Drive for far longer than 4 years, teaching those kids whom the community cheers for on Friday nights—and hundreds more besides them.
That unique perspective makes me look at this Football team a little differently. Where the community sees burly young men ready to represent their school and community, I see my young scholars, my kids. And I could not be more proud of the young scholars and young men that they are growing up to become.
Because of this team, this senior class and the classes preceding them, my 5 and 7 year old boys think football season lasts until mid-December. Because of this team, they assume that a trip to NOLA just in time for Christmas is the standard. Because of this team, they’ve been to the Superdome more times than many life-long Saints fans.
But my boys have met many of you Bearcats in my classroom as well. And because of those interactions, they believe that great athletes are also great scholars. They know that some of the best players on that football field are taking some of the most challenging classes offered at RHS. They believe that being a star athlete means taking their academics seriously.
They’ve met you all in the hallways and in the boulevard and with their friends at events in their schools and the community. And so, most importantly, they also believe that great athletes are great human beings. They believe that great athletes are kind, patient, and respectful. They believe that being a Bearcat means holding yourself to a standard of excellence on the field, in the classroom, and simply, as a person. Because of you, they want to be a great athlete and all that they believe that entails.
So right now the sting of defeat may be fresh, and we may be looking at the end of this season with disappointment and frustration, but please know that those last 48 minutes will not be your legacy as Bearcats. Your legacy will be the standard of excellence and goodness that you have instilled in the future generations of Bearcats, and that legacy is Firmly Founded.
Ashlee Bell Ruston High School English IV Dual Enrollment & AP Literature
Ruston-based Brownie Girl Scouts from Troop 11 have completed work allowing them to earn the “It’s Your Story – Tell It” journey badge.
One of the group’s projects was to write a biography poem, which they shared recently in front of an audience at the Historic Fire Station, where Ruston Main Street Director Amy Stegall also spoke with the girls about leadership, careers, strengths, interests and using one’s abilities to make the community a better place.
The Brownies were able to choose their preferred format for the poems, and some have been below.
By Evonna I am a sister. I enjoy my tablet. I love my home. I fear ghosts. I wonder if I can explore. I wish for a rainbow. I dream about unicorns. I feel happy. I plan to explore the world. I am a Girl Scout.
*****
By Eyvah I am a student. I enjoy the movies. I love Frankie. I fear ghosts. I wonder if I can get ice cream. I wish for toys. I dream to be brave. I feel silly. I plan to make a fort. I am a girl.
*****
By Marley I am happy. I enjoy seafood. I love my mom. I fear spiders. I wonder why is everyone so pretty. I wish to be strong. I dream to love. I feel happiness. I plan to have fun. I am Marley. The end.
*****
By Gwyneth I am creative. I enjoy reading. I love my mom. I fear rollercoasters. I wonder how hot it is in Australia. I wish I could fly. I dream of going to Paris. I feel happy. I plan to become an artist. I am a sister.
*****
By Frances Frances Who is nice, creative, and fantastic Daughter of Tristen and Ben Lover of pizza, ballet, running, reading, and my family Who fears spiders and mean substitutes Who needs food, water, and love Who feels happy Who would like to see Paris and New York Resident of Ruston, Louisiana Bergholtz
*****
By Sylvia Sylvia Who is caring, kind, and thoughtful Daughter of Gergana and Dencho Lover of animals Who fears tornados Who needs a puppy Who feels happy Who would like to see a hippo, dolphin, and shark Resident of Ruston, Louisiana Genov
*****
By Estella Estella I am silly, brave, and friendly. I love my relationship with my mom. I love me and Jack. I have experienced sadness, love, and happiness. I fear the dark, spiders, and sharks. I have accomplished teaching my brother things. I want to see myself rescue animals and write a book. I am a resident of Choudrant, Louisiana. Funderburg
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Every one of us can relate to the desire to experience success and/or to be viewed as successful. To probe deeper though, we need to clarify what we mean by success. Generally, we are talking about the achievement of a desired outcome, goal, or accomplishment. Most of us know success when we see it.
There’s absolutely nothing wrong with a desire to experience success or to be successful in our given pursuits. Most of us are wired that way whether we are willing to put forth the necessary effort or not. We desire success for ourselves, our organization, and our team.
The problem is not in the pursuit of success, but rather considering that outcome or achievement as the destination. Success, whether individually or collectively within an organization or team, is inward focused. Success focuses on me or us.
Significance, however, focuses on others. Success is based on an outcome that will fade in time where significance is based on an impact that will be longer term in nature. Success is derived from achievement while significance is aimed at impact. Success is something to celebrate while significance is something to elevate.
It’s not that we must choose between success and significance. Success will frequently open the door for significance. The two should work hand in hand. We experience success, either individually or collectively, and use that platform to invest in others, impact others, and elevate others.
Business leaders must deliver results to stay employed and have an impact. Coaches must win games to stay in the game and have impact. Success matters and is not the problem. The problem is too many don’t take the next step to significance!
There are a couple of verses in Philippians chapter two that direct us to do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit but in humility to count others as more significant than ourselves and to look to others interests in addition to our own (interests). In other words, we use our talents, gifts, and opportunities to their fullest, but the goal is not self-reward, but rather the impact we can have on others.
So, what does significance look like for the business organization?
Improving employee experience so that people know they are cared about, valued beyond completing a task, and viewed as a team member
Pursuing a purpose beyond financial success such as community impact, a just cause, or support for a worthy endeavor
Developing leaders and people to have positive impact both within and outside the organization
What does significance look like for a team?
Impacting the community and campus in a positive way by bringing people together and uniting diverse groups
Elevating team members to grow and develop into impactful men and women
Raising the standards for the institution, community, and support groups to reach their respective potential and advance because of the example set
What does significance look like for an individual?
Improving the lives of individuals connected with in any number of ways
Leaving a legacy of impact well beyond one’s lifetime
Impacting the beliefs, convictions, and actions of those invested in for the better
Be successful. Narrow your focus, highlight your strengths as a competitive advantage, and reach your potential in whatever you are pursuing. However, don’t stop there. Leave some margin in your life and/or the life of your organization for significance beyond that pursuit of success.
A great starting point is just to start investing in those in front of you. Start where your feet are planted today and build out from there.
Pursue success, and you may find momentary fulfillment and reward.
Pursue significance, and you look back on a life well lived.
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Cedar Creek 8th grader Anna Grace Bourn (Courtesy photo)
by Malcolm Butler
Sixteen competitors from Cedar Creek’s powerlifting team competed at the Tri-Meet against Class 5A Ruston and West Monroe on Tuesday.
“Today was mostly about our younger lifters and gaining confidence and experience,” said Cedar Creek head coach Jacob Angevine.
According to Angevine, the meet was the first competitive powerlifting experience for 13 of the lifters with 11 of those being in 8th, 9th or 10th grades.
“After losing 13 seniors last year, it’s nice having a new wave of youth into the program,” said Angevine.
Angevine said that Tuesday’s meet was mostly for first-time lifters.
“With us having so many in our program, we have to split up where we lift certain people,” said Angevine. “Most of the kids that lifted (Tuesday) have been in gear longer this season or are brand new to the sport. This meet was mainly for our first year competitors.”
There were no individual awards at this event.
Cedar Creek’s next meet will be the Billy Jack Talton Invitational hosted at West Monroe on January 4. Creek will host a Tri-Meet on January 9 and again on February 6.
Here are the Cedar Creek competitors and their marks at the West Monroe Tri-Meet.
Female Competitors
Jillian Ramsey (105-pound class) – 395 total
Joanie Cannon (105-pound class) – 565 total
Anna Grace Bourn (123-pound class) – 440 total
Marley Jinks (123-pound class) – 515 total
Anna Malsam (148-poound class) – 375 total
Lexie Vance (165-pound class) – 560 total
Annabelle Hockenjos (198-pound class) – 480 total
Bella DiGiovanni (198-pound class) – 640 total
Olivia Ferrell (220-pound class) – 425 total
Ella Culver (220+pound class) – 305 total (no squat)
Two Lincoln Parish teams were well-represented on the all-District 1-1A team following the 2024 season.
Both Lincoln Prep and Cedar Creek had a plethora of familiar names scattered throughout the first and second teams as voted on by the district coaches.
The Panthers had five first team honorees, including Cenario Wilson (WR), Jakobe Jones (OL), D’Tavion Wright (RB), Tyler Wimberly (LB) and Cenario Wilson (DB). Cedar Creek’s lone first team representative was James Myers (Athlete).
Lincoln Prep had six second team representatives, including Kengarrion Johnson (OL), Jaylin Huntley (RB), Cenario Wilson (RS), Ryan Randolph (DL), Samuel Williams (LB), and Joseph Spann (DB).
Creek’s second teamers included Bryce Martin (OL), James Myers (Wingback), Blake Robinson (DL), Mason Wooden (LB), and James Myers (DB).
Haynesville’s Isaiah Washington was named the Offensive MVP while teammates Keizavion Woods and Germerian Williams were named Co-Defensive MVPs.
Haynesville led the way with 19 first team selections.
Most fathers would do just about anything to protect their daughters from harm, criticism, and unhappiness. Margaret’s father was no different. In December 1950, Margaret, a soprano singer, performed at the famous Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, Tennessee to crowds who were enthusiastic about her “winning manner, discriminating selection of music, and naturalness.” She had had many successes in concert and solo roles with several orchestras. On this particular night, Margaret was accompanied by Herman Allison on piano. When the curtain rose, Margaret greeted the large, cheering crowd wearing a concert dress of sari material, billowy material woven of gold and silver threads, which had been a gift from the wife of the Prime Minister of Pakistan.” One critic reported that she won over the audience “before she sang a note.” During her performance, she sang such difficult selections as “The Nightingale” by Schubert, “The Nut Tree,” by Schumann, and an aria from “Le Nozze de Figaro.” So enthused was the audience that night that Margaret performed two encores.
While many other critics wrote positive reviews, 34-year-old Paul Hume, music editor for The Washington Post, was less than impressed. Hume wrote that Margaret “cannot sing very well” and “is flat a good deal of the time.” “There are a few moments during her recital,” he wrote, “when one can relax and feel confident that she will maker her goal, which is the end of the song… It is an extremely unpleasant duty to record such unhappy facts about so honestly appealing a personality. But as long as [Margaret] sings as she has for three years, and does today, we seem to have no recourse unless it is to omit comment on her programs altogether.” It was a biting review.
In response, Margaret said that she had not had time to read the review but he, Paul Hume, “has a perfect right to say whatever he thinks.” She had received other negative reviews from critics in the past, but concert hall, radio, and television audiences adored her. Despite the critics, people flocked to see her perform. Margaret brushed off the negative review. Margaret’s father, however, was enraged by Hume’s review. He wrote a scathing letter to Hume in which he said, “I have just read your lousy review buried in the back pages. You sound like a frustrated old man who never made a success, an eight-ulcer man on a four-ulcer job, and all four ulcers working.” Margaret’s father’s anger grew as he continued to write. “I never met you but if I do, you’ll need a new nose and plenty of beefsteak and perhaps a supporter below.” In the letter, Margaret’s father threatened to “beat [him] up, from top to bottom.” On the following day, newspapers reprinted parts of Margaret’s father’s letter. At first, Margaret was surprised and did not believe her father wrote the scathing letter. When she learned that her father had written the letter, she told the press that she had “no comment to make.” Margaret’s father explained that he had written the letter out of love for his daughter.
On March 27, 2002, more than five decades later, Margaret’s father’s letter to Paul Hume was auctioned by the world-famous Christie’s Auction House. The letter sold for $193,000. You see, Margaret’s father wrote the letter on White House stationery. Margaret’s father was President Harry Truman.
Sources:
1. “Truman, Harry. Autograph letter signed (H.S.T.” to Paul Hume, Music Critic of the Washington Post, D.C., 6 December 1950,” Christies.com, https://www.christies.com/en/lot/lot-3886900.
2. The Tennessean (Nashville, Tennessee), December 9, 1950, p.1.
3. St. Louis Post-Dispatch, December 24, 1950, p.13.
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City of Ruston Recycling Program Information
