By Hanna Singh

School is back in session this week, and Hillcrest Elementary is kicking off the 2024-2025 school year with a new theme designed to inspire current students and celebrate alumni achievements.

To encourage young learners to reach for the stars, Principal Becky Sutherland is introducing the Hillcrest Hall of Fame. This theme will feature a Hall of Fame display on each grade level’s hallway, showcasing inductees, and a central display in the middle hallway to recognize former students’ accomplishments. The idea behind the theme is to show students that they have a bright future ahead of them.

“This idea originated from our school motto, “Good, better, best! Never let it rest! ‘Til your good is better and your better is best,'” Sutherland said. “Over the summer, those simple words that my children spoke each morning at Hillcrest during Morning Assembly with former principal Patrice Hilton came to me as I was walking down the hall after a very busy day. I began to wonder; how could such a simple quote be so powerful that it has remained etched in the memory of anyone who has spent any time at Hillcrest in the past?”

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Elementary students will be recognized for their successes in the Hall of Fame as they reach their goals throughout the year. Families will be invited to join their children for lunch during their induction and see their stars proudly displayed on the wall.

Sutherland explained the importance of instilling confidence in young students and how it affects their future success.

“I did a little research and discovered that Tim Duncan, a professional basketball player who was inducted into the Hall of Fame, shared that as a young boy growing up in the Virgin Islands, his mother had him and his siblings recite good, better, best… each day and she would ask him, ‘Did you do your best?’”  Sutherland said. “We will celebrate many students, both past and present, who have done their personal best. Tim Duncan spoke of his parents in his induction speech stating, ‘They had zero knowledge of basketball,’ yet he went on to be an outstanding basketball player because they instilled in him a desire to do his best long before he was an NBA athlete.”

As part of the initiative, Hillcrest will find members of the community who attended the school to participate in the Hall of Fame. Alumni, now in various careers, will have the chance to promote their professions to students inspiring them to explore a wide range of future career paths. By sharing these success stories, the school hopes to encourage students to dream big and work hard to reach their goals.

Sutherland expressed her confidence in the staff and teachers at Hillcrest Elementary, believing in their ability to guide students toward doing their best and achieving their goals. The Hillcrest Hall of Fame will provide students with both a goal to strive for and inspiring role models to look up to during their educational journey. 

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The City of Ruston announces, weather permitting, that McAllister St. between MLK Dr. and Second Ave. will be closed to through traffic beginning 6am Wednesday, August 14, 2024, until further notice.

This closure is necessary for the Street Overlay Improvement Project.

The City of Ruston regrets any inconvenience this necessary work may cause residents and motorists. We appreciate your patience, and any questions can be received by the Public Works Department at (318) 242-7703.

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A Bernice man illegally using Lincoln Parish trash dumpsters was found to be in possession of drugs last Monday.

Reuben Angel Zuniga, 53, was arrested after a Lincoln Parish deputy saw his vehicle with Arkansas plates at a dump site on La. Highway 146 about noon on August 5.

Zuniga told a deputy he was from Bernice but when informed only Lincoln Parish residents could use the dumpsters, he said he was from Ruston. Zuniga appeared extremely nervous, and a search revealed a glass smoking pipe in his pocket.

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In a search of Zuniga’s truck, suspected methamphetamine, marijuana, digital scales, and numerous plastic baggies commonly used to package drugs were found.

Zuniga was arrested and booked at the Lincoln Parish Detention Center for possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, possession of drug paraphernalia, and violation of parish ordinance on dumping.

Bail was set at $55,000.

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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BATON ROUGE, La. – Keep Louisiana Beautiful (KLB) launched the Get Down & Clean Up program in collaboration with the State Library of Louisiana and the Louisiana Public Library System, making litter clean-up supplies readily available at public libraries across the state in spring 2023. Today, the program has grown to 127 participating libraries in 41 parishes, and more than 1,000 litter kits have been checked out by library patrons to care for their local communities.

“Louisianans are tired of living in a dirty state,” said Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser. “The Get Down & Clean Up program makes it possible for people to easily do their part and demonstrate community pride.”

“The Get Down & Clean Up program is a great hands-on way for families, homeschool groups, youth groups, and scouts to care for their neighborhood,” said Susan Russell, KLB Executive Director. “If we all pitch in and keep our communities clean and beautiful, we’ll experience an improved environment and quality of life.”

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Included in the Get Down & Clean Up litter kits are safety vests, litter grabbers, trash bags, and instructions. Anyone with a library card can check-out a litter kit and return it after use. Participants are encouraged to scan the QR code available on the kit instructions and fill out a quick report sharing information about their cleanup.

“Libraries these days are books and so much more. They’ve become true community hubs, and this is just another example of that,” said State Librarian Meg Placke. “We’re proud so many libraries are taking part in this important program, and we’re even happier so many people are working so hard to help keep our state looking its best. It’s a great win-win.”

The libraries with the greatest number of litter kit checkouts are Shreve Memorial Library, Jackson Parish Library, and Ouachita Parish Library. This program is free to all public libraries and there is no cost to check out a litter kit. Adult supervision is required when the kit is in use.

The public can access the list of participating libraries and the Get Down music playlist on the Get Down & Clean Up webpage. KLB encourages people to share photos of their cleanups on social media and tag @KeepLouisianaBeautiful.

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By T. Scott Boatright

 

Following Grambling State’s first preseason football practice of the year, coach Mickey Joseph said the one mission he had for his team before the regular season kicks off is to continue getting better day by day.

And following Saturday’s intrasquad scrimmage at Eddie G. Robinson Memorial Stadium, Joseph had to feel it was a mission accomplished to this point.

“I thought we were better on all three phases of the game, but we’ve got to go back and look at the film,” Joseph said. “We’ve got to look at individuals and missed assignments and all of that. The coaches will grade it and I’ll get the grades and I’ll know more.”

GSU’s first scrimmage of the preseason included referees, something Joseph believes his team needs right now.

“We led the country in penalties last year,” Joseph said. “So we want to make sure that we had refs at our scrimmage so that we can try to cut down on that. That’s part of the instruction we’re doing with our team. 

“That’s why we had the refs out here and we told them to call it tight. We told them if they think they see it, call it, and then the coach can see it on film and explain it to the players. So it’s a very important thing.”

The G-Men flashed on both sides of the ball, with the offense doing a solid job of moving the ball and finding paydirt.

“The offense often looks good in the first scrimmage,” Joseph said. “Because after a while, they’ve seen the same coverages and same fronts for about six or seven days, so they’re comfortable with what they see.

“So next week will probably be a turning point because the defense will probably put more in and turn it up. But I was impressed with the offense. I knew what (Offensive Coordinator Eric) Dooley was going to be able to do with this offense. And I know what (Defensive Coordinator) Rollins is going to be able to do with the defense.”

Former Ruston High School running back K’Travion Hargrove, a transfer from Memphis via Mississippi State, seems like he’s found a home back in Lincoln Parish and handled much of the rushing work early on in the scrimmage before giving way to the rest of the Tigers’ running back corps.

“I like what Bull can do,” Joseph said. “I know what Bull can do. So right now I really want to see those other backs and what they can do. Bull’s a kid that’s going to run it 20-25 times a game. He’s a great kid. He’s a great human being and we’re glad we’ve got him back home. He’s going to be big for us on offense.”

Joseph said it’s his rushing defense that will be focused on as practices continue.

“We’ve got to get better in A-gap in the run game,” Joseph said. “We’ve got to get more push. And those kids understand that. They know that they have to know personnel and when certain backs come in they’re going to face the run. So we’ve got to have gap integrity.

“And that’s what we didn’t have today — gap integrity. But we’re going to get better. They run through it every day, so I have the utmost confidence that they’ll get that fixed.”

Joseph said he was pleased at the opportunistic play of his defense, which produced multiple turnovers.

“We talk about turnovers,” Joseph said. “We talk about punching the ball out and making interceptions and things of that sort, so I was happy to see that today.”

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Carol Burkhalter Hudson Plamondon was born on August 28, 1942, and passed away peacefully from this life surrounded by family and close friends on August 8, 2024.

Carol was a whimsical free spirit whose laughter and love filled the hearts of those who knew her. She was passionate about her art, her garden, her friends, and family. She loved to bake, to Cajun dance, and was a fierce competitor at bridge and board games. Her favorite place was outside on her porch swing soaking up nature in all its glory.

Nothing gave her greater joy than for her home to be filled with laughter, the smell of good food, and those she loved. She never met a stranger and positively affected the lives of others through her nonjudgemental acceptance, her kindness, and her encouraging spirit.

She graduated from Ruston High School, received her undergraduate degree from Louisiana Tech, and her master’s degree from Tulane University.

Carol will be deeply missed by all who knew her. These include her husband Terry Plamondon and his daughter Katherine; her daughter Maggie Hudson Blau, husband Bruce, and their children Audrey and Anabel; her daughter Larkin Hudson Norton, husband Dean, and their children Emma and Liam; her son John Wesley Hudson IV, his daughter Charlotte Hudson Ochs and her husband Paul, and Wesley’s sons Thomas and William. She is also survived by her sisters, Duddy Garrett, Meg Jones, Beth Lyons, and her sister-in-law Carole Harris.

She was preceded in death by her brother John Brooks Harris Jr., her mother Mary James Burkhalter, and her father Harvey Donavon Burkhalter.

Visitation will be held Wednesday August 14, 2024, from 5-7p.m. in Burkhalter Chapel and foyer at Trinity Methodist Church in Ruston. A funeral service will be held Thursday August 15, 2024, at 11:00a.m. in the sanctuary at Trinity Methodist Church. Rev. Robbie Robertson will be officiating the service, assisted by Rev. Doug de Graffenreid. There will be a brief graveside service at Forest Lawn Cemetery following the service.

Donations may be made in her name to Rolling Hills Ministry and the North Central Louisiana Arts Council.

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Carol Burkhalter Hudson Plamondon 
August 28, 1942 – August 8, 2024 
Visitation: Trinity Methodist Church, Wednesday, August 14, 2024, 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm 
Service: Trinity Methodist Church, Thursday, August 15, 2024, 11:00 am 

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Courtesy of GSU Communications

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The old A.C. Lewis held 198,193 volumes of reading/research material. The new Digital Library and Learning Commons will provide access to more than 1,613,929 items, including books, periodicals, research journals, films, filmstrips, microform resources, electronic resources, and media materials and equipment.

The state-of-the-art, 50,000 square foot facility is designed to support all aspects of learning. With over 500 computer stations, 17,000 square feet of study space, and multipurpose spaces for events, meetings, and seminars, the Digital Library and Learning Commons is the ultimate intersection of academics, curiosity, and community.

It is designed to provide equitable and ample bibliographic access to resources in all formats and extends access to library resources and services beyond the physical library building through the library’s digital/online collection system and access to all academic library resources statewide through membership with LOUIS, a consortium made up of 47 college and university libraries in the state of Louisiana.

EVENT INFORMATION

WHO:                       Grambling State University

WHAT:                     Digital Library and Learning Commons Grand Opening

WHEN:                     10 a.m., Thursday, Aug. 22, 2024

WHERE:                   532 RWE Jones Dr., Grambling, LA

PARKING:                Enter off of RWE Jones Drive

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Cedar Creek Board of Directors President Lomax Napper announced that Cindy Hampton has decided to step down from her role of Head of School to return to the classroom. Hampton has served in the role for the past three years.

School President Connie Bradford will step in as Acting Head of School until a permanent replacement is found.

The full text of the letter, dated July 30, 2024, follows:

After serving as Head of School at Cedar Creek School for the past three years, Cindy Hampton has decided to follow her heart and return to the classroom. This decision comes from Mrs. Hampton’s passion for direct student engagement and her desire to contribute more closely to our students’ academic growth and development. Mrs. Hampton served as the Science Department Head, Assistant Principal of Academics, and Curriculum Coordinator prior to being named the Head of School. Mrs. Hampton’s prior experience and knowledge will allow her to positively impact our students through direct instruction and mentorship. In addition, Mrs. Hampton will also continue to help the administration with curriculum and faculty development.

“It has been my privilege and joy to lead Cedar Creek School and to work so closely with our talented faculty and staff. Now, I am equally excited about moving back into the classroom where I can interact even more directly with our students,” said Mrs. Hampton.

According to Connie Bradford, School President, “Over the years, Mrs. Hampton has played a major role in establishing our reputation for academic excellence, both as a teacher and administrator, and with her knowledge and experience I am extremely excited to have her back in the classroom once again as she leads such a critical area of our college prep academic program. She is an integral part of the team we have put together here at Cedar Creek as we strive to help our students identify their strengths and reach their potential.”

The Board of Directors and Mrs. Bradford wish to express their sincere thanks to Mrs. Hampton for her service as Head of School, and they are thankful that she will continue to be a tremendous resource to Cedar Creek School in the classroom.

The Cedar Creek Board of Directors has named Connie Bradford to serve as “Acting Head.” We are fortunate to have a President with Mrs. Bradford’s experience and expertise, and we are confident that her leadership will result in continued excellence and growth in the future. Thank you for your support.

Lomax Napper
Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

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An Arkansas man was arrested in Ruston last Thursday after he crashed into a utility terrain vehicle (UTV), injuring two city workers.

Daniel L. Robinson, 58, of Russellville, Arkansas, was charged in the crash on U.S. 167 about 4:45 a.m. on August 8.

The initial investigation indicated Robinson was traveling north on U.S. 167 and apparently failed to see the UTV operated by city public works employees. One City of Ruston worker received serious injuries and a second minor injuries.

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Ruston Police suspected Robinson was intoxicated. An odor alcoholic beverage was detected and he admitted to consuming alcohol. He was taken to the Lincoln Parish Detention Center where a breath sample indicated his blood alcohol concentration was 0.094g%.

Robinson admitted to being awake about 24 hours straight and consuming vodka as he was traveling to his home in Arkansas from south Louisiana.

Robinson was booked for first degree vehicular negligent injuring, vehicular negligent injuring, and careless operation of a vehicle.

Bail was set $15,250.

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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By Hanna Singh

Cedar Creek’s Paxton Mounts has taken on a significant role in representing Louisiana youth in state government. After years of dedication, Mounts has been appointed as an At-Large Member of the Louisiana Legislative Youth Advisory Council (LYAC) for the 2024-2025 school year.

In his new role, Mounts began his journey at the State Capitol in Baton Rouge, where he met with fellow LYAC members, state representatives and other political figures. Throughout the 2024-2025 school year, Mounts will represent Louisiana’s youth and his region, communicating with legislative representatives and gaining firsthand experience in the workings of state government.

Mounts developed an interest in the LYAC program after receiving an application from his school guidance counselor. As early as 8th grade, he set his sights on attending a service academy, joining a collegiate rifle team, and studying law. To strengthen his resume and deepen his understanding of the legislative process, Mounts applied to the LYAC program for two consecutive years but was initially unsuccessful. However, his persistence paid off. Through dedication to his academics, extracurricular activities, and community involvement, Mounts was among the 13% of applicants accepted this year.

“Paxton is an extremely goal oriented young man and does not quit,” Mounts father, Bobby Mounts said. “We are very proud of him for not getting discouraged after the first 2 refusals and improving himself enough to be accepted into the program this year.”

With aspirations to attend a military academy or law school, Mounts believes that his involvement with the LYAC will strengthen his college application while also providing him with valuable insight into the legislative process and Louisiana state government.

“Everyone on the council has a unique opinion and that’s what I find really cool about it. Experiencing something new and learning about the process,” Mounts said. “I want to go to West Point, the Naval Academy or the Airforce Academy, so I think this will play a big role in getting accepted. There’s a lot of people who apply every year so I believe being a part of this council will improve my chances of being looked at.”

Mounts’ potential wasn’t only noticed by his father. Faculty and staff at Cedar Creek also recognize him as a hardworking and persistent individual. Chad Yates, a math teacher at Cedar Creek, described Mounts as not only dedicated to his own success in the classroom but also committed to helping his peers succeed.

“Paxton came prepared daily to participate and ask questions. He is the student that would often offer to help others when they were struggling and that you could trust to do so,” Yates said. “He takes pride in completing the task to the best of his ability and was always very receptive to feedback on how he could improve his learning of the material.”

The Louisiana Legislative Youth Advisory Council (LYAC) is made up of high school students from across the state who are passionate about representing the voices of Louisiana’s youth. The 31 members meet throughout the year to discuss issues affecting young people in their state and to gain hands-on experience in how government functions. As a member of LYAC, Mounts is committed to representing his community and using his position to advocate for the youth of Louisiana.

“I believe that not many people in my generation have all the tools that they need to be successful,” Mounts said. “While I’m on the council I hope that we can address some of the problems that they face and work to fix them.”

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This is a paid advertorial.

We are delighted to welcome Dr. Kristina Stanfield to our clinic as an esteemed ophthalmologist and medical retina specialist. Dr. Stanfield brings a wealth of expertise and a compassionate approach to patient care, making her a valuable addition to our medical team.

Dr. Stanfield specializes in diagnosing and treating a wide range of eye conditions, including cataracts, dry eye disease, corneal disease, blepharospasms, glaucoma, uveitis, macular degeneration, retinal vein occlusions, retinal holes and tears, lattice degeneration, and diabetic edema and retinopathy. Her proficiency in both routine and complex procedures ensures that our patients receive comprehensive care tailored to their individual needs.

Among the services Dr. Stanfield provides are routine cataract surgery, chalazion drainage, lacrimal punctal plugs, Botox injections, retinal injections, laser trabeculoplasty, and retinal laser treatment. Her extensive training and experience enable her to perform these procedures with precision and care, enhancing the quality of life for her patients.

Dr. Stanfield’s professional philosophy reflects her dedication to patient-centered care: “I feel honored for my patients to entrust me with their eye care needs, and I aim to provide compassionate ophthalmological care to them.” This philosophy underscores her commitment to building strong, trusting relationships with her patients, ensuring they feel supported and well-informed throughout their treatment journey.

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Dr. Stanfield is deeply connected to our community through her family and personal interests. She is married to Dr. Caleb Stanfield, a respected endocrinologist who is also beginning his career at Green Clinic, and together they have two boys. The Stanfield family enjoys spending time outdoors, engaging in gardening, and working on various projects in the sunshine.

Originally from southwest Louisiana, Dr. Stanfield is a proud Cajun with a love for cooking and hosting gatherings for friends and family. Her culinary skills are often accompanied by the lively sounds of zydeco music, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. An avid LSU fan, she brings her passion for the Tigers to every game day, cheering them on with enthusiasm: “Geaux Tigers!”

Dr. Stanfield’s arrival marks an exciting chapter for our clinic. Her blend of clinical expertise, compassionate care, and community spirit embodies the values we strive to uphold. We are confident that her contributions will significantly enhance our ability to provide exceptional ophthalmological care to our patients.

We look forward to the positive impact she will undoubtedly have on our team and the community we serve. If you would like to schedule an appointment with Dr. Stanfield or learn more about the services she offers, please contact our Ophthalmology Department at 318-251-6362.

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A Ruston man was arrested last Thursday after he allegedly burglarized a local historic building for slabs of marble.

Patrick R. Hall, 43, was arrested August 8 by Ruston Police after a report of a burglary at the old post office building at 201 N. Vienna Street on August 7.

The building was constructed as a post office in 1909. In the 1960s it was repurposed into offices for federal agencies and later used for parish agencies. It is currently being renovated into a restaurant.

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Surveillance video was acquired from a nearby business. Police say it shows Hall parking near the building and loading pieces of marble with another individual.

Hall told police he thought the marble was going to be discarded as part of the renovation.

Hall was booked at the Lincoln Parish Detention Center for simple burglary. Bail was set at $25,000.

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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By Kyle Roberts

It may have been a hot Friday evening, but that didn’t stop hundreds of community members from coming out to support the returning state champion Ruston High Bearcat football team and various pep squads in the RHS Main Gym.

“We had a great turnout, some of our organizations made some money, and we had a lot of kids get recognized,” Ruston High Principal Dan Gressett said. “It was great to see so many people come out in support of Ruston High School. I want to say thank you to the people that put in a lot of work to make it happen.”

Outside the gymnasium, nearly a dozen vendors sold various types of merchandise in the Bearcat Village, set up right outside of the main steps in the parking lot.

Todd and Amanda DeMoss both coordinated the merchandise booths in efforts to get the community connected with gear and other Bearcat items in anticipation for the upcoming season.

“I thought our first Bearcat Village was a huge success and a fun component to add to Bearcat Madness,” Amanda DeMoss said. “Todd and I had so much fun pulling it all together, and what a fun way for our RHS organizations and sports teams to promote their Booster Clubs, providing a place for fans to purchase Ruston gear and fellowshipping as a one community.

“We had a wonderful team and we could not have done it without them.”

Inside, the school held a pep rally and introduced all of the players, pep squads and band members, which DeMoss said was her favorite part of the night.

Todd DeMoss wanted to thank all of the supporters for helping make the event happen and invited fans to come to the upcoming Friday Night Lights Community Kickoff.

“We want to give a big thank you to Blue Bell for sponsoring the Ice Cream Social at Bearcat Madness; Hunter Carswell and the Blue Bell team generously gave away 1000 units of ice cream for Bearcat fans to enjoy after shopping at Bearcat Village,” Todd said. “And Brandon Forester and his team at Q94.1 brought Bearcat Madness to life live on the radio waves. They ran a live broadcast from the Village for three hours Friday.

“From the microphone at the pep rally, seniors Aiden Anding, Josh Brantley and Zheric Hill thanked our Bearcat community for coming out to support Bearcat Madness. The 2023 State Champions Bearcats felt your support and say, “Thank you!”

Ruston kicks off the regular season Friday, Sept. 6, at home against Acadiana.

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On Thursday, August 8, 2024, shortly before 8:00 p.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop F began investigating a two-vehicle fatal crash on I-20 just west of LA 602. The crash claimed the life of an unidentified driver.

The preliminary investigation revealed that a Ford Transit, driven by the unidentified driver, was traveling east on the westbound shoulder of I-20. At the same time, a 2024 Valvo Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) was traveling west in the right westbound lane of I-20. Upon observing the Ford, the driver of the CMV began moving to the left lane. For reasons still under investigation, the driver of the Ford steered into the path of the CMV. As a result, the CMV struck the Ford head-on, causing both vehicles to become engulfed in flames.

The driver of the Ford suffered fatal injuries and died at the scene. The driver and passenger of the CMV were transported to area hospitals with minor to moderate injuries. Routine toxicology samples were collected and will be submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.

Troopers wish to remind motorists to always make good decisions while in a motor vehicle. Never drive impaired, fatigued or distracted, follow all traffic laws, and always ensure every occupant is properly restrained. While not all crashes are survivable, taking simple precautions such as these can often mean the difference between life and death.

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By Judith Roberts

Her name was Apollo. 

My father gifted her to me 13 years ago, right after we moved into a house in the Barnett Springs neighborhood. She was to be an outdoor cat, as I am allergic to cats, and she was the best cat anyone could ask for. 

She was always incredibly friendly, wanting pets and cuddles and staying in the house during the really cold nights. She got along well with our Chihuahua and tolerated our Corgi.  

She was originally classified as a “barn cat,” one that took care of little vermin around the house, but she was so much more. My older daughter taught her to claw the screen windows when she was hungry (much to my chagrin), and my younger daughter would sneak her in the house at night to sleep in the bed with her. 

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When we moved, my husband was so worried that Apollo wouldn’t come with us. She hated cars, and one of our original attempts to move her to our new home had already gone poorly. But, on the last day that we owned our old house, we managed to get her in a pet carrier in the car and take her to her new home. She was angry about the car ride and not super thrilled about the new surroundings; she hid out in the woods for about three days, just meow-ling angrily at us from the bushes. But she eventually came along and found out that her new territory was quite more interesting. 

In the last few years, we joked that she had “retired” from her outdoor job of catching vermin, and it did seem like she didn’t care about wild prey anymore. She would sneak in the house as much as she could, curl up on the dog’s bed (or my daughter’s, if she could), and sleep peacefully in the quiet indoors. She was slowly becoming a house cat, though she wanted to be out of doors about as much as she wanted to be inside – especially when my husband was grilling. One of the kids’ favorite memories is when Kyle was putting hamburgers on the grill and looked back to grab the last one and couldn’t find it. He looked everywhere for that patty, but the cat had already swiped it off the tray and taken it off to eat it. She may have “retired,” but that didn’t mean that she wasn’t quick to grab some meat! 

And, alas, as happens to all good pets, life ends. Last week, Apollo disappeared, and we were all devastated. She was a delight to our family, but over the summer, she had gotten slower and leaner. We think she found herself a quiet, wooded area to drift off to sleep. 

This is the second and final of our family pets that have been with the children since they were born to pass. And just because she was an outdoor pet didn’t mean she was loved any less. We mourn that sweet little cat with so many family memories – of my father giving her to me, of her purring around both of my daughters, of her hiding out in the house in any cozy spot, of stealing food and asking for more.  

She was loved. She was Apollo, queen among cats.  

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Courtesy of Louisiana Office of State Parks

Construction is now underway on playground projects at Bogue Chitto and Fontainebleau state parks. The specialized playgrounds provide multi-sensory play experiences enabling children of varying ages and abilities to play and interact together. 

“While there is still much work to be done, we are one step closer to completion of the new playgrounds that address a variety of needs now that the concrete has been poured at both sites,” Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser said. “We’re excited to bring these special playgrounds to reality for children of all abilities to enjoy and explore. We also hope to add projects such as these to our other 19 state parks,” Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser said.

The 7,200 and 7,300 square foot playgrounds will not only have special play equipment but shaded areas, benches and picnic tables. Construction is expected to be completed in October.

The playgrounds were funded through a Land and Water Conservation Fund 50% cost-share grant.

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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. 

Monday, August 12
11:30 a.m.: Lunch on Us (Presbyterian Church, 212 North Bonner Street., Ruston) — everyone welcome
6 p.m.: Toastmasters International meeting (Louisiana Center for the Blind, 101 South Trenton Street)

Tuesday, August 13
7 p.m.: Lincoln Parish Police Jury meeting (Lincoln Parish courthouse)

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Wednesday, August 14
7-8 a.m.: Veterans Coffee Club (PJ’s Coffee)
9 a.m. to noon: Tiger Con Wellness Expo and Resource Fair (GSU Quad)
11:30 a.m.: Lunch on Us (Presbyterian Church, 212 North Bonner Street., Ruston) — everyone welcome

Thursday, August 15
Lincoln Parish Public Schools return
11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Kiwanis Club lunch and program (Trinity Methodist Church fellowship hall)

Saturday, August 17
9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Farmers Market

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Courtesy of LA Tech Athletic Communications

Louisiana Tech’s bowling team put the finishing touches with the addition of Paulina Avalos, announced by head coach Matt Nantais on Thursday.

Avalos arrives in Ruston after spending the previous two seasons at NAIA power Savannah College of Art and Design. The Bees won three straight NAIA National Championships and finished third at the USBC Intercollegiate Team Championship.

“I am very excited to add Paulina to our team,” Nantais said. “She has a ton of international experience, which will be a great addition to our team. With the addition of Paulina, we will be at eight members this year on the team who could all start at any time.”

Avalos is part of Team Mexico and has multiple years of experience in international competition. She won first place in the women’s double category A at the Comisión Nacional de Cultura Física y Deporte Nationals (CONADE) in 2024 – Mexico’s National Commission for Physical Culture and Sport.

She took home the top spot in three events during the 2023 CONADE Nationals, individual, doubles, and teams while taking home first place in the individual women’s category at the Turbo Cup.

SUPPORT LA TECH ATHLETICS
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Courtesy of GSU Athletic Communications

The Grambling State University volleyball team is set for an exciting 2024 season, featuring a challenging lineup of 28 regular season games.

The season kicks off with a thrilling home opener and includes high-profile match-ups against major opponents.

The Tigers kickoff the season on Aug. 27 with an exhibition versus Centenary College at the Fredrick C. Hobdy Assembly Center. The Tigers travel to the Crimson Tide Invitational on Aug. 30-31 to compete against UT-Martin, the University of Alabama and The Citadel.

GSU returns home for another match-up against Centenary on Sep. 3, before heading off for a pair of away games as they head to the V-State Invitational hosted by Mississippi Valley State on Sept. 6 (Nicholls State) and Sept 7 (Lamar).

Grambling State hosts Northwestern State on Sept.10 before heading to New Orleans for the Tulane Invitational beginning Sept. 13 against Louisiana-Monroe. GSU faces host Tulane on Sept. 14 and Mississippi State on Sept. 15.

After traveling to Thibodeaux, La. to take on Nicholls State, GSU concludes the month of September with a trio of home games versus Texas College (Sept. 25), Alabama A&M (Sept. 29) and Alabama State (Sept. 30).

The Tigers begin the month of October with a three-game road swing Alcorn State (Oct. 6) , Southern (Oct. 7) and Arkansas-Pine Bluff (Oct.10)

GSU welcomes Prairie View A&M (Oct. 13) and Texas Southern (Oct. 14) to the Hobdy Center for a pair of matches before back on the road for a four-game trip starting on Oct. 20. On Oct. 20, the Tigers face defending SWAC Champion Jackson State. On Oct. 21, GSU squares off against MVSU. Grambling State then heads to the Sunshine State to do battle with Bethune-Cookman (Oct. 27) and Florida A&M (Oct. 28).

The Tigers return home for matches versus UAPB (Nov. 7) and Alcorn State (Nov. 10). On Nov. 11, Grambling State will honor its 2024 senior class during its Senior Night contest versus Southern.

Grambling State closes the regular season on the road as they take on Prairie View A&M on Nov. 17 and Texas Southern on Nov. 18.

This season, Grambling State will host the 2024 SWAC Volleyball Tournament, scheduled for Nov. 22-24 inside the Fredrick C. Hobdy Assembly Center.

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Funeral services for Faye Ann Davis Smith, Age 80, of Ruston, LA will be held Monday, August 12, 2024, at 2:00 pm in the Chapel at Owens Memorial Chapel Funeral Home, Ruston, LA. Officiating will be Brother Paul Watts. Burial will follow at Vienna Cemetery in Vienna, LA under the direction of Owens Memorial Chapel Funeral Home. Visitation with family and friends will be at 12:30 pm at Owens Memorial Chapel.

Faye went home to be with her Lord and Savior in Ruston, LA on August 8, 2024, with her loving family by her side. Faye was born July 2, 1944, in St. Joseph, LA to Joe Edward Davis and Elvie Pauline Hicks, who resided in Louisiana. Faye grew up and attended school in Farmerville, LA.  Faye married the love of her life, John Thomas Smith on January 16^th, 1959. Together, they welcomed 5 children into this world: 3 daughters: Dewanna Russell, Joanne Lowery and Edwina White and 2 sons: Richard Smith and Thomas Smith. Faye was a kind soul, a lover of life-family-and God, and a devoted and loving wife, mother, grandmother and friend. Fayes’ passion in life was to take care of people it was no surprise that she chose to be a Certified Nursing Assistant. She worked for 30 years as a CNA at Lincoln General Hospital. She was also a sitter for several elderly clients, and she greatly treasured the relationships she built with those that she cared for.  

Faye is preceded in death by her parents, Joe Davis and Elvie Davis, husband of 47 years, John Thomas Smith; sons: Richard Smith and Thomas Smith; sisters: Betty Smith and Thelma Kendrick, brothers: Lonnie Davis, Joe Davis and Leon Davis; and great-grandson, Eithan Lowery.

Faye is survived in life by 1 brother: Bill Davis (wife Nancy); 3 daughters: Dewanna Russell, Joanne Lowery (husband Robert Dale) and Edwina White; 14 grandchildren: Brent Russell (wife Kiesha), Robert Lowery, Ricky Smith (wife Suzanne), Misty Farley (husband Jay), Heather Crawford (husband Clint), Kurt Smith (wife Charity), Paul White, Cody Russell, Derrick Smith (wife Hannah), Alan Smith (wife Devan), Phillip White, Matthew Smith (wife Rebecca), Thomas Smith and Richard Smith; 34 great-grandchildren: Britt Russell, Breanna Russell, TayloreAnn Lowery, Colton Lowery, Dakota Lowery, Kaydence Lowery, Allie Smith, Landon Farley, Morghan Farley, Katelyn Harvey, Connor Harvey, Trenton Smith, Tristin Smith, Saige Smith, Kearstie White, Kaden Peppers, Braxton White, Avery White, Ethan Russell, Hunter Farris, Landon Allen, Kennedy Smith, Abigail Smith, Grayson Smith, Bowen Smith, Joshua White, Kaleb White, Lainey White, Sadie White, Braxton Smith, Ashlyn Smith; 2 great-great-grandchildren: Oaklynn Russell and Cassie Lowery.

Serving as pallbearers will be, David Smith, Derrick Smith, Britt Russell, Landon Farley, Ethan Russell, Joshua White. Honorary pallbearer’s will be, Clint Crawford and Jay Farley.

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Carol Burkhalter Hudson Plamondon 
August 28, 1942 – August 8, 2024 
Visitation: Trinity Methodist Church, Wednesday, August 14, 2024, 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm 
Service: Trinity Methodist Church, Thursday, August 15, 2024, 11:00 am 

David Timber Wayne Roberts 
June 27, 2024 – August 7, 2024 

Faye Ann Smith 
August 8, 2024 
Visitation: Monday, August 12, 2024, 12:30 PM – 2:00 PM, Owens Memorial Chapel Funeral Home 
Funeral Service: Monday, August 12, 2024, 2:00 PM, Owens Memorial Chapel Funeral Home 
Graveside Service: Monday, August 12, 2024, Vienna Cemetery, Hwy. 167 North, Ruston 

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