Most Louisiana motorists will no longer be required to obtain traditional vehicle inspection stickers beginning in 2027 under legislation signed into law Tuesday by Gov. Jeff Landry.
House Bill 1085, authored by Rep. Larry Bagley of Stonewall, phases out the state’s long-standing inspection sticker program for most passenger vehicles and replaces it with a windshield decal containing a QR code linked to vehicle registration information.
The new law takes effect Jan. 1, 2027.
For generations, Louisiana drivers have been required to visit certified inspection stations to obtain inspection stickers verifying their vehicles met state safety requirements. Under the new law, most motorists will instead receive a QR code decal that can be scanned by law enforcement to access vehicle registration information, including the vehicle identification number, make, model and registration status.
Supporters of the legislation said the measure will reduce costs for drivers while eliminating what many viewed as an outdated and inconvenient process.
The QR code decal will cost up to $6 annually, compared to current inspection sticker fees of $10 for a one-year sticker and $20 for a two-year sticker.
While the law eliminates routine inspections for most passenger vehicles, motorists will remain responsible for maintaining safe vehicles. Law enforcement officers will continue to be able to issue citations for equipment violations involving items such as lights, tires, brakes and other safety-related equipment.
The legislation does not eliminate all vehicle inspections. Commercial vehicles and certain student transportation vehicles will continue to be subject to inspection requirements. In addition, some federally mandated emissions-testing requirements are expected to remain in place in areas where they are required under federal law.
The legislation marks one of the most significant changes to Louisiana’s vehicle registration system in decades. The familiar inspection sticker, commonly known as a “brake tag,” has been a fixture on Louisiana windshields for generations.
Efforts to eliminate the inspection sticker requirement have surfaced repeatedly in the Legislature over the years but failed to gain enough support to become law. This year, the proposal received backing from Landry and won overwhelming approval in both the House and Senate.
Supporters argued that the inspection sticker program provided limited public safety benefits while creating an unnecessary expense and inconvenience for motorists. Critics contended that inspections served as an additional safeguard to help identify unsafe vehicles before they reached Louisiana roadways.
Current inspection sticker requirements remain in effect, and state officials are expected to provide additional guidance on the transition to the QR code system before the law takes effect in 2027.
For motorists across North Louisiana, the most noticeable change will be the end of routine trips to inspection stations and the eventual replacement of traditional inspection stickers with the new QR code decal system.
The world’s worst eating disorder occurs between two people of the opposite sex.
“Where do you want to eat?”
“Doesn’t matter to me.”
Silence.
A tinge of friction, undefinable at the time. But something besides hunger is there that wasn’t there before.
You speak again. The car is almost out of the driveway.
“You in the mood for anything in particular?
“Well, not really. I just want to spend time with you. I could eat just about anything.”
“Well, Mexican, Italian … Want a burger or something?”
“Anything’s fine. You decide.”
You are driving now or being driven in a direction. Just a direction. Not to anything, not away from anything. Just driving, hungry and decisionless. Sans decision. No Man’s Land.
“Seafood?”
“Well, not seafood. But anything else.”
Discreetly, eyes roll.
“Enchiladas?”
“If you want. Really, it doesn’t matter to me.”
The car is going slower because you don’t want to drive too far in case you’re heading away from whatever restaurant you decide — sometime before the turn of the century — to eat at.
“You don’t care?”
“Not really.”
That’s it.
“Fine. Let’s go to the 7-Eleven and get a Big Gulp and a hotdog and eat it on the curb by the dumpster and the old pay phone.”
“Well, not that.”
“OK then. It does matter. You do care. Now, where do you want to eat?”
“Where do youwant to eat?”
At this point, ugly names like “Mister Smarty Pants Question-Asking Hangry Person!”are not spoken at the ends of the sentences. They are, however, understood.
“Well, where do you want to eat, (insert ugly name here)?”
“That’s what I’m asking you, (worse ugly name goes here)!”
And you continue trying to make the other person decide, secretly hoping they will save you from culinary hell.
We all eat several times a day. Every day. You’d think that after all the practice, we’d get it right. But time and time again, men and women have food fights.
Why is this?
It doesn’t work this way when it’s just guys or just girls. The decision is made quickly, the compromise comes easier, or something. I do not know why. All I know is that if Chef Boy-ar-dee and the Jolly Green Giant decide to go eat together, they’re ordering in 10 minutes. But if Chef Boy-ar-dee and Betty Crocker decide to dine together, they’re still hungry and hour later. Hungry, and on a low boil.
Sadly, we seldom make the perfect call. We second guess. We try to read minds, or stomachs. We don’t trust. (“Does she really want pizza for the third straight night, or is she just being nice …?”)
Sometimes, though, you actually make it to the restaurant without having to stop for either gas or stitches. And you look at each other, and apologize, and there is only one thing left to say.
RUSTON, La. — Community leaders, coaches and volunteers came together Saturday at Ruston High School to host the inaugural Jerrod Baugh and Robert “Demp” Smith Football Camp, an event designed to inspire local youth through football instruction, mentorship and community support.
The camp, organized by the Ford-Jackson Community Development Foundation with support from the Pi Tau Chapter of Omega Psi Phi, welcomed approximately 50 young athletes for a day of position drills, guest speakers and lessons about leadership and perseverance.
Organizers said the camp was created both to honor the legacy of former Ruston High coach Robert “Demp” Smith — recognized as the first African American coach in school history — and to provide positive opportunities for area youth.
“It’s been my vision to always do some type of camp for us that I know that we can really inspire and help out with in the area,” said Korick Wilkerson, one of the event organizers. “We wanted to help these youth in the area, give them something to look up to and give something to the community, too.”
Wilkerson said the idea for the camp grew after conversations with fellow organizer Eric Outley Sr., who had long hoped to create an event honoring Smith. A committee of volunteers was then formed to coordinate logistics, field operations, medical support, registration and food donations.
Outley said the effort quickly became a community-wide project, with local volunteers and donors helping provide water, Gatorade, meals and other resources for campers throughout the day.
“We had awesome volunteers. We had awesome people to support with donating food,” Outley said. “It was just everybody coming together.”
Jonathan Millage, who oversaw on-field operations, said campers rotated through offensive and defensive skill stations, including quarterback, running back, offensive line, receiver, linebacker and defensive back drills.
The event also featured guest speakers, including both Sonny Cumbie and Mickey Joseph, head coaches for Louisiana Tech and Grambling, respectively, who addressed campers during breaks in the day’s activities.
Ruston High football coach Jerrod Baugh said the event was meaningful because it highlighted the contributions of people who helped shape the history of the Ruston High football program.
“I think it’s always important to highlight the history of this program,” Baugh said. “There’s a lot of people that have played a big part of where we are at this time and what this football program has been through the years, and Coach Demp has absolutely been a big part.”
Baugh said Smith’s impact extended beyond football during a pivotal period in the community’s history.
“He was doing that when it was obviously a very controversial time,” Baugh said. “It had to have been a tough time for him, and I can appreciate the fact that he was willing to take that on to move the school, the football program and really the community forward into what things have become at the moment.”
Millage said organizers hope the camp continues to grow in future years.
“It was a good turnout, a real good turnout,” Millage said. “I think from many years to come, if we keep doing it, it’ll just get bigger and bigger.”
A highlight of the event came when organizers presented a hand-drawn picture from local photographer and artist Reggie McLeroy to Coach Baugh and members of the Smith family.
(Photo by Jeff Clemons)
Organizers also expressed appreciation to Coach Baugh and the Smith family, current and former Ruston High football players, Kimberly Williams, Director of Community Impact, United Way NWLA, Jeff Miller and the Payne family for providing food for campers, and Unity of Ruston and Charles Antwine for supplying water and Gatorade throughout the event.
Outley said the football camp is one of several community outreach efforts supported by the organization, which also hosts fan drives, back-to-school giveaways, nursing home visits and bicycle donation events throughout the year.
“We just want to shine a positive light on the community and let the community know we care,” Outley said.
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, June 3 Louisiana Peach Festival events 7-8 a.m.: Veterans Coffee Club (PJ’s Coffee) 11:30 a.m.: Lunch on Us (Presbyterian Church, 212 North Bonner Street., Ruston) — everyone welcome 12-1 p.m.: Rotary Club meeting (Historic Fire Station)
Thursday, June 4 Louisiana Peach Festival events 10 a.m.: Northeast Louisiana Children’s Museum at Lincoln Parish Library 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Kiwanis Club lunch and program (Trinity Methodist Church fellowship hall) 2 p.m.: Tween Time : Mad Libs with Hector Vargas (Lincoln Parish Library) 4 p.m.: Teen Time : DIY Terrariums (Lincoln Parish Library) 4:30-5:30 p.m.: Free meal provided by Trinity Methodist Church Game Changers and volunteers in collaboration with 5 Loaves 2 Fish Ministry to be held at Ruston Housing Authority office at 615 N. Farmerville Street. All are welcome 6 p.m.: Video-Led Tai Chi class (Lincoln Parish Library Events Center) 6 p.m.: Southern A’Chord Chorus rehearsal (Presbyterian Church fellowship hall, 212 N. Bonner St.; open to all women singers)
Friday, June 5 Louisiana Peach Festival events 3:30-5:30 p.m.: Summer DND Campaign for Teens & Tweens (Lincoln Parish Library) Please call 318-513-5518 for important information about participation. 6 p.m.: Peach Festival Parade
Saturday, June 6 Louisiana Peach Festival events 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Farmers Market 12-5 p.m.: Video Game Meetup hosted by Ruston Fighting Gaming Community (Lincoln Parish Library)
Monday, June 8 11:30 a.m.: Lunch on Us (Presbyterian Church, 212 North Bonner Street., Ruston) — everyone welcome 4 p.m.: Storytime : Insects (Lincoln Parish Library Events Center) 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 (Creatives at Work, 301 N. Trenton)
Tuesday, June 9 6:30 a.m.: Veterans free breakfast (VFW Post 3615, 206 Memorial Dr.) 10 a.m.: Storytime : Insects (Lincoln Parish Library Events Center) 10 a.m.: Summer movie series: Bolt (Dixie Theatre) 2 p.m.: Crafternoon : Bowl Ladybugs (Lincoln Parish Library) 4 p.m.: Teen Time : Popsicle Stick Wall Art (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, June 10 7-8 a.m.: Veterans Coffee Club (PJ’s Coffee) 11:30 a.m.: Lunch on Us (Presbyterian Church, 212 North Bonner Street., Ruston) — everyone welcome 12-1 p.m.: Rotary Club meeting (Historic Fire Station) 2 p.m.: Author/Musician Rickey Pittman performance (Lincoln Parish Library Events Center)
Thursday, June 11 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) 2 p.m.: Tween Time : LSU Ag Center Smoothie Bike (Lincoln Parish Library) 4 p.m.: Teen Time : LSU Ag Center Smoothie Bike (Lincoln Parish Library) 4:30-5:30 p.m.: Free meal provided by Chick-fil-A and 5 Loaves 2 Fish Ministry to be served at Simsboro Grace Methodist Church, Highway 80 in Simsboro. All are welcome. 6 p.m.: Video-Led Tai Chi class (Lincoln Parish Library Events Center) 6 p.m.: Southern A’Chord Chorus rehearsal (Presbyterian Church fellowship hall, 212 N. Bonner St.; open to all women singers)
Friday, June 12 9:30 a.m.: Ribbon cutting celebrating Ruston Parks Inclusive Play Communication Boards (2800 Kavanaugh Rd., Ruston) 2 p.m.: American Chemical Society at Lincoln Parish Library 3:30-5:30 p.m.: Summer DND Campaign for Teens & Tweens (Lincoln Parish Library) Please call 318-513-5518 for important information about participation. 6 p.m.: Juneteenth Pageant (TH Harris Auditorium, Reed St., Grambling)
Saturday, June 13 8:30-11:30 a.m.: Hazardous Waste Material Collection and Recycling (2609 Farmerville St.) Noon: Historic Landmark unveiling (City Park Pavilion, 119 Park St., Grambling) 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Farmers Market
Louisiana Tech All-American and WNBA All-Star Vickie Johnson, a Coushatta native, talks with kids during the 2025 Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame free clinic for kids.
Hundreds of kids who dream of playing in the pros – or, kids who just love to play – can get signed up for the free New Orleans Saints & Pelicans/Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Junior Training Camp on Saturday morning, June 27 on the Northwestern State campus in Natchitoches.
The JTC annually provides two hours of full throttle fun alongside Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame members and NSU coaches, and staff from the New Orleans Saints and Pelicans community relations department. It is presented by Natchitoches Regional Medical Center.
The clinic registration can be done quickly on the LaSportsHall.com website under the “events’ button. Or parents can call the LSHOF Foundation office at 318-238-4255 for registration help. The camp fills to its 300-kid capacity almost every summer.
The LaSportsHall.com website has the full schedule for the Induction Celebration June 25-27. The JTC is one of three free events, beginning with the Thursday evening Welcome Reception from 5-7 at the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame and Northwest Louisiana History Museum at 800 Front Street in Natchitoches. The biggest free ticket is Friday night, June 26 Rockin’ Riverfest concert from 6-10:30 on the downtown riverbank, featuring a fireworks show after the Class of 2026 is introduced at 9:15.
The Junior Training Camp runs from 9-11 a.m., starting with registration between 8-9 a.m. at the Webb Wellness and Recreation Center (WRAC) gymnasium on the NSU campus. It’s important for parents to get their campers checked in well before the fun starts at 9 a.m. Then, campers get introduced to the sports stars who will be coaching them for the next two hours, inside focusing on basketball skills, and outside at Turpin Stadium, with football and general sports skills instruction.
Every camper will bring home two free T-shirts, other items, and a coupon for a meal at Raisin’ Canes. Photos from the camp will be posted on the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Facebook page, and so will a highlight video.
The goals of the JTC are simple – a fun, and thrilling, experience for the kids, free of charge; skills instruction from some of the best to ever play, or coach, the games; and promotion of health lifestyles and positive life choices.
The campers are separated into two groups. One stays inside for the first hour for basketball instruction, while the other is next door at Turpin Stadium, having football fun. The groups switch locations in the second half of the camp.
Parents can follow their favorite campers and watch all the fun from the stands in the gym and on the east side of Turpin Stadium – where it will be sunny, and hot, watching some really cool memories being made.
Fees for residential garbage pickup could see a 40% increase while a potential cooperative endeavor agreement could help bring a hotel to the grounds of the Ruston Sports Complex after a pair of ordinances were introduced during Monday evening’s Ruston City Council meeting for the month of June.
Those introduced ordinances will be discussed and potentially voted on during next month’s City Council meeting set for July 13.
As far as the proposed garbage fee increase that would up the cost from $6 to $10 monthly, Ruston hasn’t seen such a fee increase in 14 years.
According to a 2021 report by Moving.com, the national average cost for residential garbage pickup ranges from $25 to $100 per month, or roughly $300 to $1,200 annually.
Those costs generally fall toward the lower end — around $20 to $40 monthly — when services are bundled into local municipal utility bills or flat-rate contracts.
Also introduced during Monday’s City Council meeting was an ordinance that, if passed next month, could ask aldermen to consider allowing the city to enter into a cooperative endeavor agreement with Frontier America Regional Center Inc.
That CEA will reportedly specify terms for an agreement that would see the city sell 2.8 acres that sit between the entrance to the sports complex to the south and the Lagniappe Animal Clinic to the north.
Another ordinance introduced during the meeting, if passed next month, would create an economic “RPO” (old Ruston Post Office) development district for the Delta Biscuit Company slated to open in the former Federal Building on North Vienna Street across from the Dixie Center for the Arts.
Another ordinance introduced Monday is a notice of intent to consider allowing the new RPO economic development district — the Delta Biscuit Company establishment — to levy an additional 1.75% sales tax to cover renovation costs for turning the building into a restaurant. Once those costs have been covered, tax dollars derived from the RPO district tax will go to the city, depending on terms outlined in the CEA.
During the meeting, the Ruston City Council passed a “bookkeeping ordinance” authorizing the city to accept Ruston Downtown Revitalization Phase 6, U.S. 80, La. Highway 150 Lincoln Parish Project.
“This is a little housekeeping here,” said Public Works Director John Freeman. “Sometimes we worry that construction of a project takes a long time. Well, sometimes closing a project out and getting all of those pieces of paper to satisfy an audit can seem to take forever.
“So, we actually accepted this project in 2024. We were boxing things up with the DOTD (Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development) and they recognized that we had missed a step in getting this resolution stating what we did in 2024 on the books. That’s all this is. Accepting this project and certain portions of that to continue operating and maintenance.”
Mayor Ronny Walker pointed out there was more than one thing that needed to be tied up to put the matter on the books.
“For the record, we found where the DOTD had failed to finish something, too,” Walker said.
Ruston’s Board of Aldermen also passed resolutions authorizing execution of an equipment conditional sales lease agreement with Bank OZK, which bought out the old equipment leasing agency, and another authorizing the city to enter into a contract with P&L of Ouachita Inc. for $1,054,000 relating to the Ruston Regional Airport 10-unit T-Hangar Project.
“This will be 100% funded by the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration),” Freeman said. “I was assured by the FAA this morning that the grant is in the process of resolution, so this resolution authorizing the mayor to sign that contract is contingent on that grant coming through.”
The City Council also agreed to give owners of property at 1207 Jones St. and 2001 Beech St. 30 days to rebuild or demolish blighted structures.
Owner of the 1207 Jones St. property, Ramona Gant, asked the council to give her more time to work out finances to renovate the structure, which she said had been basically destroyed in an act of arson two years ago.
Gant was asked why it took so long to respond to the abatement inquiry, and she said it was because she’s still working to come up with funding.
In a surprise moment during the public hearing portion concerning the 1207 Jones St. property, Bennie Sawyer told the City Council that she had offered to buy the property from Gant, but that Gant did not want to sell it.
Sawyer then said she was a grant-writing specialist from Seattle who grew up across the street from the 1207 Jones St. property and that she intends over the next 30 days to write a grant and receive funding for Gant to be able to demolish the existing structure and build a new one.
Louisiana Tech University has announced graduates from its Spring 2026 commencement ceremonies held May 23. Graduates are listed below by the state/territory they have reported in their Workday profile, with Louisiana listed first.
A Jonesboro man was arrested last week after a traffic stop in Grambling resulted in the discovery of suspected narcotics, according to a police report.
Jorden A. Dill, 20, of Jonesboro, was arrested by Grambling Police about 10:30 p.m. on May 27.
According to the report, an officer saw a gray sedan fail to stop at a stop sign, prompting a traffic stop. The report states officers made contact with the driver and smelled the strong odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle.
During a search of the vehicle, officers located a bottle of promethazine hydrochloride, a prescription bottle with the label scraped off containing a green liquid, and a small bag of about 4.1 grams of suspected marijuana.
Dill, a passenger in the vehicle, said the items in a backpack belonged to him. The driver was released.
Dill was booked at the Lincoln Parish Detention Center for possession of a legend drug and possession of marijuana.
This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named or shown in photographs or video as suspects in a criminal investigation, or arrested and charged with a crime, have not been convicted of any criminal offense and are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
The Chee Weez will headline the musical performances at this year’s Peach Festival.
by Hanna Singh
It’s almost that time again. The Peach Festival is on its way, and an exciting roster of local musicians and performers has been announced. With over 12 hours of live music at Railroad Park, the 2-26 Peach Fest is bringing a whole day’s worth of peachy fun to Ruston Louisiana.
The performance list includes a talented lineup of bands, singers, and musicians beginning 9:00 AM and finishing at 10:30 PM. Wrapping up the show will be the headliner band “The Chee Weez” all the way from New Orleans.
Lineup:
RussTown Band – 9:00AM -10:00AM
Virlyn Bangcot – 10:00AM-11:00AM
Trey Gauthreaux – 11:00AM-12:00PM
Swamp N Roll Pat Mason & Bayou Boogie – 12:00PM-1:00PM
Josh Love Band – 1:00PM-2:00PM
Elise Clare Causey – 2:00PM-3:00PM
Stampede – 3:00PM-4:00PM
Averyal Goyne – 4:30PM-5:30PM
TIPSEY – 6:30PM-8:00PM
2026 HEADLINER The Chee Weez – 9:00PM-10:30PM
With the days inching closer, many of the performers are just as excited for the event as the Peach Fest goers. Returning performers, “The Chee Weez” expressed their excitement in playing at the Peach Festival for the 4th time. Chee Weez vocalist and bass player, Joey Mangiapane, shared their experience in performing previously and highlighted their expectations for this year.
“We last played The Peach Festival in 2020.” The Chee Weez said. “We’re looking forward to being back this year. We don’t play Ruston that much, but we’ve always had a great time in that area. Everyone is extremely friendly and are always ready to have a good time. We play a little bit of everything, but we mainly play 80’s music. I’ve been playing music since I was 15. I’ve always liked the interaction with the audience. We try to get them involved as much as possible.”
The Josh Love Band, a local rock and blues band led by lead vocalist “Josh Love” will be taking the stage as a return performance as well. As a childhood musician turned local rock star, Love described some of his journey in becoming the performer he is today, and why he does it.
“I started playing guitar after seeing a high school talent show tryout,” Love said. “Music was always around in my life. From listening to the radio and going to church, it was always in my life. I remember fondly jamming in the car with my dad to Rush and Living Colour. Music is a beautiful form of expression and can positively impact people. That’s why I love it.”
Later in the afternoon, Averyal Goyne will take the stage as a first time Peach Fest performer to show some love to the pop rock genre. A lover of all types of music, Goyne plays from the heart because of how it makes herself and others feel. She is looking forward to bringing some of that joy and emotion to the stage on June 6th.
“There is nothing in the world that can replicate the same feeling I get when performing,” Goyne said. “I live for all the emotion it brings. Also, I greatly enjoy watching people in the audience, seeing them sing along or having a smile on their face at each show while seeing familiar ones, leaves me with the utmost gratitude and excitement for what’s next. For the Peach Fest I would say people can expect an authentic, high-energy performance, that is well curated and will get you off your feet. This moment is the moment, and I love to live in it.”
Trey Gauthreaux, a Ruston local, will be playing right at home at this year’s Peach Festival. A musician with Louisiana roots, Gauthreaux is excited to meet people who travel from afar to see the festival right here in his hometown. He will be playing a mixture of R&B, classic rock, blues and country.
“What I’m looking forward to most is meeting people that come from all over the world for this.” Gauthreaux said. “I’ve met people that come all the way from England to come to the Peach Fest. I’m also looking forward to all the great music that will be performed throughout the day. I’m thankful to be a part of such an amazing event. People can expect to see me perform original music along with what inspired me to write. Also, I will be playing my favorite cover songs.”
With a variety of genres and performers this year, Peach Fest goers can expect a high-energy and fun-filled day of live performances. Peach Festival admission is free to the public and you can find all this live music happening in Downtown Ruston at the Railroad Park Stage. Get ready for a peachy summer and don’t miss this year’s musical performances!
A Farmerville man was arrested last week following a traffic stop on La. Highway that resulted in the discovery of suspected marijuana, methamphetamine, and drug paraphernalia, according to a Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s Office report.
Davarro M. Benson, 47, of Farmerville, was arrested at approximately 11:16 p.m. on May 26 after a deputy observed a black Honda Accord traveling northbound on Highway 33 with a license plate light violation.
According to the report, the deputy initiated a traffic stop and made contact with the driver, identified as Benson, and a female passenger. The report states Benson said he did not have a driver’s license but provided identifying information.
While speaking with Benson, the deputy reported detecting a strong odor of cologne coming from inside the vehicle and observing suspected marijuana residue in the center console area. The deputy saw what was described in the report as a partially smoked marijuana cigarette in plain view near the front driver floorboard.
The passenger was advised of her rights and denied knowledge of any narcotics. Benson also initially denied having narcotics in the vehicle.
According to the report, Benson later told the deputy he had marijuana in his bag after being informed a search of the vehicle would be conducted.
An additional deputy arrived and a search located a clear plastic bag containing suspected methamphetamine in the driver door pocket, two “short straws” — one under the driver seat and one in the center console — and a clear plastic bag containing suspected marijuana in a bag associated with Benson.
Benson was booked for no driver’s license, no license plate light, possession of marijuana—third, possession of methamphetamine, and possession of drug paraphernalia.
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.
At Century Next Bank, we’re committed to providing the best possible banking experience to our valued customers. We’re excited to introduce enhancements to our Online Banking and Mobile Banking platforms, featuring optimized navigation, improved functionality, and enhanced security for both Personal and Business Banking customers.
Getting Started – Online Banking via Website at www.cnext.bank
Personal Banking Customers 1. Login using your existing username and password. 2. You’ll be prompted to provide personal and account information to securely validate your account according to our records. 3. After your first login, you’ll be prompted to create a new password.
Business Banking Customers 1. Login using your existing username and the temporary password provided to you via secure online banking message on May 22. If you need this information again, please give us a call at 318-255-3733 or 870-364-1300. 2. You’ll be prompted to provide personal and account information to securely validate your account according to our records. 3. After your first login, you’ll be prompted to create a new password. 4. Some business accounts were previously made available to you under a consumer online banking profile. If you are unable to login using the Business Banking link, please follow the instructions to login as a Personal Banking Customer.
Getting Started – Mobile Banking Apps
Personal & Business Banking Customers 1. Delete your previous CNext Mobile app. 2. Download the new mobile app from the links provided below.
Google Play (Android Users) App At the time of this announcement, our new Android apps are still pending release in the Google Play Store. We will announce their availability on our Facebook page as soon as they are approved. In the meantime, Android users can securely access Online Banking through the Century Next Bank website (www.cnext.bank) using their preferred mobile browser.
3. Login using the same instructions provided above for website access. (If you have already completed the first validation login through the website, you’ll simply login using your username and new password.)
Have Questions? We know you may have questions about bill pay, ACH services, account history, and other features. We’ve compiled additional information and answers to frequently asked questions for your convenience. View our additional key information linked here.
We’re Here to Help! As always, we’re proud to be your local community bank. If you have any trouble logging in or need assistance navigating the new platform, please don’t hesitate to contact us at 318-255-3733 or 870-364-1300. Our team is ready to help.
Bojangles in Ruston is offering several summer promotions for customers.
The restaurant’s Wing Wednesday deal includes three wings, a side, biscuit and drink for $5.99. The deal is available all day Wednesdays for dine-in or drive-thru orders.
After 5 p.m., customers can also take advantage of app-only deals, including a two-piece leg and thigh meal with a side and biscuit for $5, or an eight-piece family meal for $19.99. Those deals are available daily after 5 p.m.
Bojangles is also continuing its Tender Tuesday promotion, which includes two three-piece chicken tender combos for $9.59 plus tax. Each combo includes three tenders, a side, biscuit, dipping sauce and drink. The deal is available all day Tuesdays for dine-in or drive-thru orders.
Bojangles is located at 2202 Farmerville Highway in Ruston. The restaurant opens daily at 6 a.m. and serves breakfast all day.
I’ve been pondering one of life’s great mysteries: what happened to hats? Real hats. The kind men used to wear when they went to work, went to town, or went anywhere except the shower. Once upon a time, a man wouldn’t leave the house without a fedora, a trilby, or something with a brim wide enough to shade half the county. Now the only folks still wearing real hats are cowboys—and even they take them off indoors, which is more than I can say for the baseball-cap crowd at Walmart.
I watch Perry Mason before bed most nights. Not for the suspense—there isn’t any. We all know Perry’s client didn’t do it. I watch to see how much the world has changed. In the 1957 episodes, everybody wears a hat. Even Perry. The only hatless soul is Paul Drake, the detective, who apparently needed full cranial ventilation to solve crimes. And have you noticed? Nobody has a television in their living room. They’re sitting around talking to each other like it’s normal. Wild times.
Do y’all know what happened to hats? Should we start a new fad here in Ruston? On second thought, no. I’d rather someone start a movement to make neckties disappear. That’s the one part of my calling I’ve never understood.
Why wrap a decorative noose around my neck and cut off blood flow to my already overworked brain? I’m trying to preach the gospel, not pass out in the pulpit. Someone please start a necktie revolt. I’ll sign the petition.
And while we’re talking about things that vanished—what happened to CB radios? That was the first social media.
You could make friends for a solid five miles. Longer if you were driving 55 on the interstate, which we all were back then, unless we weren’t, which is why we needed the CB in the first place. “Breaker one-nine, where’s Smokey hiding?” Then radar detectors came along and CBs went the way of the eight-track.
Some things I’m glad disappeared. Felt boards in church. I never trusted those things. One wrong move and Moses would fall off Mount Sinai. Typewriters? Good riddance. I used more liquid paper than ribbon. I’m surprised they didn’t sell it by the gallon.
But here’s something I hope doesn’t vanish: you.
So go to church on Sunday—before someone starts wondering what happened to you.
Kade Luker was named the Class A MVP on the all-state team. (photo by Darrell James)
by Malcolm Butler
It was quite a Monday for Kade Luker.
A history maker to be exact.
The Cedar Creek southpaw added two more trophies to the case, earning the Louisiana Gatorade Player of the Year award while also collecting the LSWA all-state MVP award.
The 6-foot-1, 185-pound junior became the first Cedar Creek baseball player to ever win the Gatorade Player of the Year award and only the second Lincoln Parish player, joining former Ruston High star Brandon Watts (1991).
Luker headlined the Louisiana Sports Writers Association’s Class 1A all-state baseball team after being named the state’s Most Outstanding Player. The LSU commitment helped lead Cedar Creek to a 27-6 record and a trip to the Division IV select state semifinals.
“I think he went out and he had a great summer and just came in that fall this past fall with just seemed like a dedication,” said Cedar Creek HC Chad Yates. “He was going to do everything he could to just get himself a little bit better every day and bring those guys along with him.”
Luker is ranked No. 61 in the Class of 2027 by Prep Baseball Report.
“He just showed up each and every day trying to get himself better.”
The hard-throwing left-hander finished the season 10-1 with a 1.04 ERA while striking out 135 batters over 74 innings. He allowed only 11 earned runs and issued 19 walks all season.
Offensively, Luker hit leadoff for the Cougars, batting .531 with 48 runs, 36 RBI and 28 stolen bases.
“He’s a high character kid that, again, shows up and does the little things behind the scenes,” said Yates, who said Luker touched 94 MPH on the radar gun down in Sulphur. “He’s out in the community, any events that we do or anything that I’ve called him that I need help with as far as a camp or some of the team community events that we do.”
His named wasn’t the only Cedar Creek honoree on the all-state Class A baseball and softball teams as a host of Cougars and Lady Cougars received recognition.
He was joined on the first team by Cedar Creek teammate Ryan Coleman, who earned all-state recognition in the outfield after batting .359 during his junior campaign.
“Ryan made that big jump this season and really got himself in a good space to where he could go out there each and every day and put his best efforts forward,” said Yates. “He did and kept getting better and just had big at bats for us and then played a great right field for us as well.”
Cedar Creek’s Connor Yates also earned honorable mention honors on the Class 1A baseball team.
On the softball side, Cedar Creek placed three players on the Class 1A honorable mention list.
Junior Hydi Boyd, freshman Ava Lantrip and sophomore Presley Wall all earned honorable mention recognition following the Lady Cougars’ 2026 season. The trio guided Cedar Creek to a 20-win season and a quarterfinal appearance in the Select School Division IV playoffs.
St. John senior Charli Neumann was named the Class 1A softball Most Outstanding Player while Central Catholic baseball coach Brent Hidalgo and Grand Lake softball coach Ryan Monceaux earned Coach of the Year honors.
Class 1A Baseball Team
Pos. — Player, School, Class
P — Mason Dudek, Covenant Christian, Sr. P — Kade Luker, Cedar Creek, Jr. P — Jayce Ruiz, Riverside, Sr. P — Peyton Vizena, St. Edmund, Sr. C — Peyton Trosclair, Covenant Christian, Sr. INF — Keaton Cason, Logansport, Sr. INF — Brandon Guagliardo, Central Catholic, Fr. INF — A.J. Lavespere, St. Mary’s, Sr. INF — Maden Rodriguez, Central Catholic, So. OF — Ryan Coleman, Cedar Creek, Jr. OF — Nate Loupe, Covenant Christian, Jr. OF — Myka Nipple, Catholic-Pointe Coupee, Jr. UT — Myles Collins, Opelousas Catholic, Jr. UT — Law Faulk, Grand Lake, So. UT — Owen O’Neil, St. Frederick, Sr. UT — Owen Trosclair, Covenant Christian, Sr. UT — Brody Vicknair, Riverside, Jr.
Most Outstanding Player — Kade Luker, Cedar Creek
Coach of the Year — Brent Hidalgo, Central Catholic
Honorable Mention
Vaughn Blanchard, Ascension Catholic; Luke Brignac, Ascension Christian; Blaize Brister, Merryville; Winn Cedars, St. Mary’s; Cy Crowson, St. John; Landon Daigle, St. John; Gavin Edwards, Montgomery; Tyler Edwards, St. John; Jaxon Frederick, Centerville; Kross Gillen, Opelousas Catholic; Parker Gros, Central Catholic; Riley Hebert, Centerville; Carter Hotard, Catholic-Pointe Coupee; David Irwin, Central Catholic; King Jones, Logansport; Mason Jordan, Montgomery; Cy Landry, Ascension Catholic; Luke Leaumont, St. Frederick; Cole Mirante, Merryville; Jude Morrison, Catholic-Pointe Coupee; Haidyn Nelson, St. Mary’s; Preston Peebles, Ascension Episcopal; Lanny Reed, St. Edmund; Gabe Savarese, St. Martin’s; Alex Scheuermann, St. Martin’s; William Simon, Vermilion Catholic; Luke Spangler, Centerville; Carter Stelly, Opelousas Catholic; Landon Underwood, Central Catholic; Owen Vacarella, Hanson; Johnny Viallon, Ascension Catholic; Connor Yates, Cedar Creek.
Class 1A Softball Team
Pos. — Player, School, Class
P — Kamryn Cancienne, Riverside, Sr. P — Ava Gauthe, Ascension Catholic, Sr. P — Landry Long, LaSalle, So. P — Ainsley Morvan, Logansport, So. C — Brynn Beard, Merryville, So. INF — Gabi Brown, Glenbrook Academy INF — Charli Neumann, St. John, Sr. INF — Olivia St. Pierre, Riverside, So. INF — Bella Trosclair, Covenant Christian, Sr. OF — Sophie Crochet, Ascension Catholic, Sr. OF — Avery Houser, St. Frederick, Sr. OF — Bayli Melancon, Riverside, So. UT — Alaina Beard, Grand Lake, Sr. UT — Camille DeGravelle, St. Frederick, So. UT — Sanaa Lyles, Plain Dealing, Sr. UT — Kinley Morris, LaSalle, Sr. UT — Grace Wren, St. Mary’s, Sr.
Most Outstanding Player — Charli Neumann, St. John
Coach of the Year — Ryan Monceaux, Grand Lake
Honorable Mention
Emmarie Atkins, Logansport; Ally Atwood, Delta Charter; Jaci Bordelon, Riverside; Hydi Boyd, Cedar Creek; Addy Brown, Central Private; Tyonnah Burton, St. Mary’s; Addie Clampit, St. Frederick; Karson Davis, Covenant Christian; Emma Delatte, Ascension Catholic; Onnie Doucet, Hanson; Kaleigh Evans, Covenant Christian; Sofie Green, Plain Dealing; Anna-Maria Gros, Central Catholic; Heidi Harrison, St. Frederick; Gracie Heard, Glenbrook Academy; Sophie Hedrick, Delta Charter; Malorie LaCaze, St. Mary’s; Ava Lantrip, Cedar Creek; Avery McCartney, Central Private; Karyn Milazzo, Riverside; Lawson Olinde, Catholic-PC; Emma Pitre, Hanson; Addison Quick, Covenant Christian; Mia Richard, Grand Lake; Averie Ryals, Central Catholic; Zoie Scully, Central Catholic; Mia Sisco, Westminster Christian-Lafayette; Kennedi Smith, Logansport; Brooklyn Steward, Merryville; Hallie Sutton, Glenbrook; Ava Taylor, Delta Charter; Hannah Thevis, Grand Lake; Madison Trahan, Grand Lake; Presley Wall, Cedar Creek.
