Head coach Matt Lodge and Louisiana Tech soccer have announced the official signing of Kate Mondejar Thursday morning.
Mondejar is native of Gurnee, Illinois and was born in Highland Park, Illinois. She brings in experience as a midfielder, outside back and forward.
“We look forward to Kate joining our program,” Lodge said. “She brings an incredible work ethic, energy, pace, and a desire to win. Kate is another player who can fill many roles for us. We’re excited to bring her to Ruston this fall.”
She was a four-year varsity letterman for soccer at Warren Township high School, being a two-time recipient of All-Conference and All-Sectional honors.
Mondejar was voted the Co-MVP of her team as a sophomore and was a two-year captain for her junior and senior seasons. She also spent her club career playing for Rockford Raptors FC ECNL.
Mondejar also spent two years on the varsity cross country team, being named All-Conference twice and was a state qualifier, as well as playing two years of junior varsity basketball.
Funeral services for Mildred Eloise Falkenheiner Peterson, 92, of Ruston will be 11:00 A.M. Monday, March 2, 2026, at Kilpatrick Funeral Home Chapel in Ruston, LA. Pastor Pete Mace will officiate the service. Interment will follow in Greenwood Cemetery in Ruston under the direction of Kilpatrick Funeral Homes of Ruston, LA.
A visitation will begin at 10:00 A.M until service time in the Chapel of Kilpatrick Funeral Home.
Mildred passed away peacefully on February 25, 2026, in Ruston. She was born April 14, 1933, in Ferriday, LA to Henry and Edith Falkenheiner. She was a member of Grace Methodist Church in Ruston.
For 36 years, Mildred worked for Bell South, South Central Bell, and retired from AT&T. Her hobbies were traveling and shopping. She loved to be on the go! Didn’t matter where as long as she was gone from home. She loved to make picture albums when she returned from her trips. Mildred loved her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.
She is preceded in death by her husband Forrest C. Peterson and parents, Henry and Edith Falkenheiner.
Mildred is survived by her children, Libby McMullen and husband Corbet of West Monroe; granddaughter, April Taylor (Dustin) of Choudrant; great grandson, Riggins Ray; great granddaughter, Anniston Grace; and son, Clay Peterson and wife Susie of Homer, LA; step-grandchildren, Jamie Morganthall (Donna) and their children of Downsville, LA; Charlie Morganthall (Toni) and their children of Ruston, LA.
Pallbearers honoring Mildred are Charlie Morganthall, Keith Williamson, Ronald (Speedy) Edwards, Richie McKinney, Dustin Taylor, and Wayne Patterson.
We would like to thank Tender Touch Caregivers for the 5 years of service to Mildred and our family.
Mildred F. Peterson April 14, 1933 – February 25, 2026 Visitation: Monday, March 2, 2026, 10:00AM – 11:00AM, Kilpatrick Funeral Homes Service: Monday, March 2, 2026, 11:00AM, Kilpatrick Funeral Homes Final Resting Place: Greenwood Cemetery, West Alabama Avenue, Ruston
Wanda McCallister Lewis Monday 08/24/1964 — Friday 02/20/2026 Visitation: Friday 03/06/2026 3:00pm to 6:00pm at King’s Funeral Home Funeral Service: Friday 02/27/2026 1:00pm at King’s Funeral Home Interment: Saturday 03/07/2026 Following Service, Bonner Cemetery, Ruston
Marilyn Hargrove Jackson Thursday 08/08/1957 — Saturday 02/21/2026 Funeral Service: Friday 02/27/2026 2:00pm at King’s Funeral Home Interment: Friday 02/27/2026 Following Service, George Washington Carver Memorial Park, Martin Luther King Drive, Ruston
Letrice Anita Cedotal March 11, 1957 – February 24, 2026 Visitation: Saturday, February 28, 2026, 2:00PM – 3:00PM, at Kilpatrick Funeral Home
Brigitte Watson Fitzgerald March 25, 1956 – February 21, 2026 Visitation: Saturday, February 28, 2026, 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM, Owens Memorial Chapel Memorial Service: Saturday, February 28, 2026, 2:00 PM, Owens Memorial Chapel
Katherine Dorena “Doe” Wilson Clark February 23, 1948 – February 15, 2026 Visitation: Saturday, March 14, 2026, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM, Feazel Chapel at First Baptist Church West Monroe, 311 Mill St., West Monroe Celebration of Life: Saturday, March 14, 2026, 2:00 PM, Feazel Chapel at First Baptist Church West Monroe, 311 Mill St., West Monroe
The entrance from West Alabama Avenue onto Goyne Street which is the start of the road that will connect to the eastbound frontage road located south of I-20.
by Malcolm Butler
Relief is on the way.
As residents continue to talk (and worry) about possible challenges associated with the construction of the new Cooktown Bridge and roundabouts, Ruston Mayor Ronny Walker said funding has been approved by the state for the completion of Goyne Street.
This should alleviate some of the pressure coming off of the eastbound frontage road located south of Interstate 20.
Although normally traffic is only a major issue at this intersection following church services on Sunday and Wednesdays, it is still a concern. The completion of Goyne Street will also provide another route for motorists traveling from I-20 that are wanting to access the Tech Athletics complex, including Joe Aillet Stadium and the Thomas Assembly Center.
Walker said at March Ruston City Council meeting scheduled for Monday, a vote will be taken to approve the first phase of the project.
The road would start on the frontage road just west of Temple Baptist Church and would run south through existing woods (behind Garland Gregory Hide-A-Way Park), eventually ending at West Alabama Avenue between The Heights Ruston and Park Ridge Estates.
According to Walker, an access road from the Temple Baptist Church parking lot will allow churchgoers to access Goyne Street.
“The City Council will vote Monday to authorize the city to enter into a contract related to starting phase 1 of constructing this road,” said Walker.
Walker said the price tag on the entire project will be around $2.3 million with the city paying for 25 percent.
“We have about $600,000 from capitol outlay for phase 1,” said Walker. “Goyne Street starts at West Alabama but only goes for about a couple hundred yards. Phase 1 will allow us to completely finish that stretch with drainage and everything. Phase 2 will take us from that point to the frontage road.”
Walker said there will be multiple benefits to the new road.
“Our thought was people can get off on Tarbutton, come down the frontage road, and take a right on Goyne Street and have access to the (Thomas) Assembly Center and Joe Aillet Stadium,” said Walker. “Plus, this will give the Temple Baptist folks relief to go south on Goyne Street and then hit West Alabama. It will help congestion during those times on Cooktown.”
Although funding has been approved, the timeliness of phase 2 funds is still a concern.
Walker said he is hoping the state will move funds for phase 2 from Priority 5 to Priority 1 so the entire project can be completed sooner than later.
“If people want to help us with this, call any legislator — not just ours from around here because they are aware of it but others — and encourage them to move that money from Priority 5 to Priority 1,” said Walker. “This could be completed before the new Cooktown Bridge and roundabouts open if the funding is moved to Priority 1.”
The City of Ruston has announced a special Groundbreaking Ceremony for “The Bark Yard,” a city-maintained dog park. The groundbreaking is scheduled for March 2 at 4:00 p.m. at 1212 McAllister Drive behind the Ruston Animal Shelter.
The Bark Yard Dog Park is being brought to life in partnership with some incredible students and faculty of the Louisiana Tech University School of Design.
* * *
The LA Department of Transportation & Development will host an open house public meeting to provide information and gather input regarding a proposed roundabout in Ruston. The event will be held on Tuesday, March 3 from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at the Lincoln Parish Library, 910 N. Trenton.
The project involves constructing a double lane roundabout at the intersection of LA Hwy 150 (W. Martin Luther King Jr. Ave) and LA Hwy 818 (Tarbutton Road), which would replace the current traffic controls of stop signs and flashing lights. This is the busiest intersection between Ruston and Grambling on LA 150, referred to by some as “Old Grambling Road.” It will only get busier when Buc-ees and adjacent businesses open.
* * *
A big dream of the non-profit “Dubach Legends” group is the acquisition of the Fred Dubach House, home of the founder of the town. The Wisconsin native moved to the area and developed one of the biggest timber operations in Louisiana. The grand house built by Dubach in 1900 is deteriorating and the group wants to save it. Fred Dubach eventually sold out to T. L. James in the 1920s. The James family, known for its construction empire and philanthropy, lived in the house until moving to Ruston’s T. C. Standifer House, now known as “The Big House.”
You can check out Dubach Legends on Facebook.
* * *
The ice is gone but the devastation will remain for some time. Scores of structures collapsed or were damaged by the terrific weight of the ice dumped by Winter Storm Fern, particularly on flat roofs. The victims included business establishments, schools, and private homes.
* * *
Another victim of the ice storm is our road system. If you suspect your favorite pothole is a bit bigger, it’s no wonder. As rain or melted ice seeps into cracks, freezes, and expands, it breaks apart asphalt, resulting in significant potholes and surface degradation.
* * *
While Lincoln Parish is not under a burn ban, the State Fire Marshal has warned conditions exist that increase the likelihood for wildfires. The Fire Marshal recommends no outside burning until we get some rain.
A two-vehicle crash in north Webster Parish Monday morning has claimed the life of a 20-year-old Haynesville man.
Louisiana State Police said Tristan Young died when his vehicle apparently entered the intersection of LA Hwy. 160 and Fire Tower Road and collided with a log truck.
Preliminary investigation by troopers revealed a 1995 Toyota Tercel, driven by Young, was traveling south on Fire Tower Road around 10:15 a.m. approaching the intersection of LA Highway 160. A 2019 Mack Pinnacle was traveling west on Hwy. 160 when, for reasons still under investigation, the Toyota traveled into the intersection and collided with the truck.
According to state police, Young was unrestrained at the time of the crash. He was pronounced dead at the scene. A passenger in the front seat, who also was unrestrained, was ejected, sustaining severe injuries. He was transported to a local hospital. The third passenger in the rear seat of the vehicle was unrestrained and reportedly received moderate injuries.
Investigators said the driver of the log truck was properly restrained and suffered moderate injuries.
Investigators indicated impairment on the part of Young is not suspected, but routine toxicology samples were collected and submitted for analysis. The crash remains under investigation.
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Just a friendly reminder about the new notification system that keeps you informed about emergencies, weather updates, and local events in Lincoln Parish.
Participants found this extremely useful during the recent winter storm and you will too!
If you haven’t signed up yet, make sure you do so to stay in the know. Your safety matters to us, so don’t miss out on important updates!
Click the link to sign up for alerts: www.lincalerts.org Stay safe and informed!
Two Ruston men were arrested on drug charges following a traffic stop near the Louisiana Tech campus Monday evening.
Chauncey Harper, 21, and Christian Wright, 25, were arrested by Ruston Police on February 23 after an officer observed traffic violations and stopped the vehicle on Tech Drive. Harper reportedly fled on foot as soon as the vehicle stopped.
Harper was located in the men’s locker room of the Louisiana Tech Intramural Center. When he was taken into custody, 13 grams of marijuana were located on him. Harper said the marijuana was the reason he ran.
Louisiana Tech Police said Harper did not check into the intramural center and pay a fee so he was considered a trespasser. Tech police officers also found additional marijuana in the area where Harper had fled.
Review of surveillance video showed Harper running through the intramural center parking lot, stop between two vehicles, and bend over behind the vehicles where he appeared to throw items before running away. This was the location where the bags containing about 78.5 grams of marijuana were found.
Wright, a passenger in the vehicle said everything found in the vehicle belonged to him. A search by officers located 18.1 grams of marijuana, four tablets of acetaminophen-hydrocodone tartrate and a bottle of promethazine hydrochloride. Wright told officers he was under the influence of all three drugs.
The two men were booked at the Lincoln Parish Detention Center. Wright was charged with possession of marijuana, possession of a legend drug, and possession of a Schedule II controlled substance.
Harper was booked for possession of marijuana, resisting an officer, and criminal trespass.
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RUSTON, La. — Ruston High (5-4) got a bounce-back run-rule win Tuesday night on the road at Airline (3-7) by a final score of 12-2 thanks in large part to a four-RBI performance by junior JP Moak at the plate.
“Man, we needed that to start a tough five-game stretch on the road,” Ruston High Head Coach Bryan Beck said. “I really challenged our kids after coming off back-to-back losses in the Trey Altick that we needed to compete better at the plate and give our pitching staff better run support. We had a good practice (Sunday) and had a good pregame batting practice. We hit some balls really, really hard and really aggressive today.”
The production started early when Moak got his first of three hits on the day with a single into center field to score senior Jackson Lee. Two batters later, senior Jackson Burroughs singled into right to then score Moak for a 2-0 lead.
Airline would score its only two runs of the night to tie the game 2-2, but it would only take two empty innings for both teams before Ruston to put up a four-spot of runs in the top of the fourth — all with two outs.
Senior Lander Smith first doubled into right field to score both seniors Michael Brisco and Kenden Freeman to give Ruston a 4-2 lead. Lee then brought home pinch runner Tucker Patterson from second, followed by Lee scoring on a single from Moak to go up 6-2.
Not done for the night, Ruston added five more runs in the top of the sixth — again, all with two outs — which was started by Moak doubling to score both Patterson and junior Keilan Davis to go up 8-2. Two batters later, Moak scored from third during an at-bat by sophomore Tyler Osborne, and junior Dillon Williams scored senior Hudson Wood with a single for an 11-2 lead.
Ruston added one final run in the top of the seventh thanks to a sacrifice fly by Lee to score Brisco for the 12-2 score.
Sophomore Hudson Wilkerson got the win after 4.1 innings pitched and striking out four batters along the way.
“That’s how we need to play the game and that’s how we need to approach every game, no matter the opponent,” Beck said. “Airline’s a good baseball team, and we went over on the road and took care of business. And I’m really proud that (Wilkerson) got his first varsity win under his belt.”
Ruston return to action this weekend at the Jay Patterson Shootout in South Louisiana. The Bearcats will start off today playing Destrehan at 4 p.m.
“We’ll enjoy this one today,” Beck said. “Hopefully, this will be good momentum to carry us into a really tough four-game stretch down in Baton Rouge this weekend.”
I recently had the privilege of officiating my father-in-law’s funeral service. In preparing the message, I had no problem identifying plenty of positive things to talk about. He was a great man in many respects with an abundance of qualities and stories to build a message around.
While organizing these thoughts one morning, I was walking past a cemetery near our home. I couldn’t help but notice the monuments and tombstones as I passed by on the walk. Each one had two dates, the birth date and the passing date. I prefer to that second date as the transition date (transition to a different life).
There was also the dash symbol or space between the two dates. This “dash” or space represents their life. It represents all the good times, the tough times, the laughter, the sorrow, and all the interactions with others. It represents years of toil and labor, hopes and dreams, and disappointments and failures.
If you are reading this column, you have one date, your birth date. You are currently in that “dash” or space. We all have one (dash or space). Some are longer than others. Some have more hardships than others. Some of those “dashes” have more uncertainty than others.
No two “dashes” are the same. Those “dashes” are full of circumstances that we often don’t control as well as choices we make. Those “dashes” are full of blessings we didn’t deserve as well as hardships that we wished we could avoid. There are some big events in those dashes and many small insignificant things that we take for granted.
The “dash” is our story regardless. It’s unique to us. It’s special to us. It’s our story.
While we don’t fully control our story by any means, we do have a great deal to say about it. You see, our story is really about a series of choices. While we don’t choose all the circumstances, we do choose our response. While we don’t control the external issues, comments, and challenges that come our way, we do choose our response.
Our “dash” is really a series of choices.
We can choose better over bitter. We can choose forgiveness over resentment. We can choose to focus forward over dwelling on the past.
We can choose to see the good in others rather than finding flaws. We can choose to lift up rather than tear down. We can choose positive over negative.
We can choose to work hard and seek better, or we can choose the easy route and deal with regret later. We can choose to help others, or we can choose to focus purely on ourselves.
Life is a series of choices.
We can be defined by our circumstances, limitations, and opportunities, or we can be defined by the choices we make.
Romans 12:2-3 “Do not be conformed to this world but be transformed by the renewal of your mind.”
Conformed to the world tells us to focus on self, be comfortable, and allow outside influences to define us. A renewed mind changes our focus, changes our thoughts, and ultimately changes our choices.
How will your “dash” be defined?
Doug equips leaders to make organizations better. He has two leadership books available on all online platforms. Whether you are looking for a speaker for your next event or a leadership coach to develop people and build an authentic team, contact Doug at doug.strickel@gmail.com and learn more about PLUS.
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Each Monday through Friday, the Lincoln Parish Journal will post a list of non-for-profit upcoming events happening in the parish. If you would like to add your event to this list or advertise your for-profit events, please email us at lpjnewsla@gmail.com.
Thursday, Feb. 26 10 a.m.: Ribbon cutting celebrating The UPS Store (1735 Farmerville Hwy., Suite 12) 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Kiwanis Club lunch and program (Trinity Methodist Church fellowship hall) 4 p.m.: GSU men’s basketball 4 p.m.: Tween Time: Alma Thomas paintings (Lincoln Parish Library) 6 p.m.: Teen Time: Volunteer Opportunity (Lincoln Parish Library) 6-8 p.m.: 2026 BFA senior class from Louisiana Tech University’s School of Design will debut Introspective Narratives, a dynamic collaborative exhibition opening (Lincoln Parish Museum) 6 p.m.: Southern A’Chord Chorus rehearsal (Presbyterian Church fellowship hall, 212 N. Bonner St.; open to all women singers) 6:30 p.m.: LA Tech men’s basketball
Friday, Feb. 27 3:30 p.m.: LA Tech softball 6 p.m.: LA Tech softball 6 p.m.: LA Tech baseball
Saturday, Feb. 28 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Farmers Market 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.: Inaugural Black Expo (Lincoln Parish Library Events Center) 2 p.m.: LA Tech men’s basketball 4 p.m.: LA Tech baseball 6 p.m.: LA Tech softball 6:30 p.m.: GSU men’s basketball
Sunday, March 1 Noon: LA Tech softball 1 p.m.: LA Tech baseball
Monday, March 2 11:30 a.m.: Lunch on Us (Presbyterian Church, 212 North Bonner Street., Ruston) — everyone welcome 5:30 p.m.: Ruston City Council meeting (Ruston City Hall) 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, March 3 Noon: Lincoln Parish School Board Meeting (Choudrant Elementary School) 6 p.m.: LA Tech baseball
Wednesday, March 4 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) 6 p.m.: GSU softball 6 p.m.: LA Tech baseball
Thursday, March 5 9 a.m.: Ribbon cutting celebrating Chase Bank (297 North Service Rd., Ruston) 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Kiwanis Club lunch and program (Trinity Methodist Church fellowship hall) 4:30-5:30 p.m.: Free meal to be served at the Ruston Housing Authority Community Room at 901 MLK Dr. Sponsored by 5 Loaves 3 Fish Ministry. All are invited. 6 p.m.: Southern A’Chord Chorus rehearsal (Presbyterian Church fellowship hall, 212 N. Bonner St.; open to all women singers) 6:30 p.m.: Lady Techster basketball 7 p.m.: Ruston Community Theatre presents “The Stinky Cheese Man”
Friday, March 6 7 p.m.: Ruston Community Theatre presents “The Stinky Cheese Man”
Saturday, March 7 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.: Find Your Voice: Empowering Women through Song (Presbyterian Church of Ruston Fellowship Hall) 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Farmers Market 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.: Third annual Geektogether (Lincoln Parish Library and LPL Events Center) 7 p.m.: Ruston Community Theatre presents “The Stinky Cheese Man”
Sunday, March 8 2 p.m.: Ruston Community Theatre presents “The Stinky Cheese Man”
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Louisiana Tech plays its final two home games of the season this week, starting off tonight versus Missouri State inside the Thomas Assembly Center on Karl Malone Court.
Tipoff is set for 6:30 p.m. on ESPN+.
Missouri State leads the all-time series versus LA Tech, 2-1. The Bears won the first two matchups in Springfield, including a 69-40 win in 2010 in the CIT quarterfinals. However, the Bulldogs were able to claim their first victory over MSU two weeks ago with a gritty 79-78 double overtime victory.
Tonight will be the first ever time LA Tech hosts MSU in Ruston.
LA Tech’s game-tying three-pointer was off the mark as the Bulldogs (15-12, 8-8) dropped a 58-55 defensive slugfest to Kennesaw State this past Saturday inside VyStar Arena. The Bulldogs are in a three-way tie for fourth in the league standings.
LA Tech’s defense tallied 10 steals and eight blocks at Kennesaw State. Over the five games, the team is averaging 9.6 steals and 6.8 blocks per contest. LA Tech has recorded at least eight steals in all five games (first time since the 2019-20 season).
For the season, LA Tech ranks 25th in the nation in blocks per game (4.8). Melian Martinez is a big reason for that as the center is averaging 1.65 blocks per game, which ranks first in CUSA and 59th in the country. He had a season-high five blocks at KSU, which tied his career high.
Kaden Cooper registered his third double-double over the last five games, a stretch where he is averaging 13.0 points and 11.2 boards per contest. He also has totaled 13 steals over the five games for an average of 2.6 per contest (multiple steals in all five).
Missouri State (13-14, 7-9), playing its first season in Conference USA, started league play by winning seven of 11. However, the Bears are on a five-game losing streak, having suffered losses to Liberty, Louisiana Tech, Delaware, Kennesaw State, and most recently a 70-67 home setback at FIU.
During this losing skid, four of the five defeats have been decided by four points or less. One of them was in Miami this past Saturday when the Panthers hit a game-winning three with 3.5 seconds left to defeat MSU, 70-67. As a result, Missouri State is now 7-9 in conference, putting them in a two-way tie for seventh in the league standings.
Missouri State has a three-headed monster in the scoring department. Anchoring the pack is forward Keith Palek III, a transfer from California (Pa.), who is averaging 17.6 points per contest which ranks fourth in the league. Then there is guard Kobi Williams and forward Michael Osei-Bonsu who are averaging 15.2 and 14.3 points, respectively. The trio have accounted for 59.7 percent of MSU’s scoring this season.
Louisiana Tech head soccer coach Matt Lodge announced the signing of defending midfielder Jane Neil Wednesday afternoon.
Neil is native to Charlotte, North Carolina and is set to graduate from Covenant Day School this at the end of the Spring 2026 semester. She’ll come to Tech as a four-year varsity letterman for soccer as well as competing with the Charlotte Soccer Academy 07/08 National Team.
“We are really excited about adding Jane to our 2026 class,” Lodge said about his newest signee. “Jane is very versatile where we can use her at the midfield or at the back. She is athletic, calm and composed on the ball, and her soccer IQ is going to help us compete.”
Throughout her high school and junior career, she has received NCSAA Southeast Super-Region honors as well as All-State and All-Region recognitions for her high school play. She was also named Athlete of the Week during her playing time at Covenant.
Neil grew up in a soccer household, as her father played soccer at Gardner-Webb University in Boiling Springs, North Carolina.
Memorial services for Mrs. Brigitte Fitzgerald, age 69 of Ruston, LA will be held at 2:00 PM, Saturday, February 28, 2026 at Owens Memorial Chapel with Rev. Gil Arthur officiating. All services will be under the direction of Owens Memorial Chapel Funeral Home of Ruston, LA.
Brigitte was born on March 25, 1956 in Ruston, LA to Vera Mae Barfield and James Royce Watson and she passed away on Saturday, February 21, 2026 in West Monroe, LA. She was a retiree from the Lincoln Parish Sherriff’s Office Narcotic Division, where she worked for 20 years. Brigitte loved her co-workers and they were all family to her.
Brigitte was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend. She enjoyed spending time with her family and her life revolved around her great-grandchildren. Brigitte was a strong-willed person that enjoyed cooking. She was a sports fanatic, with the Dallas Cowboys and LSU Tigers football and baseball being her favorite teams
Brigitte was preceded in death by her parents, Royce and Vera Watson. She is survived by her husband of 47 years, Mickey Fitzgerald; children, Kyley and husband Justin Arbuckle and Joshua Heath Fitzgerald; grandchildren, Hunter Jones, Andie Jones and husband Gage Edwards, Brennen Arbuckle, and Cooper Arbuckle; great-grandchildren, Henley Edwards, Kolt Edwards, and Laramie Lane Edwards; brother, Jimmy Watson and wife Emilane; sister, Candace and husband Jeff Cooper; and a host of other family and friends.
Serving as honorary pallbearers will be Brad Wall, Stephen Williams, Kyle Luker, Jake Watts, Dan O’Neal III, Dennis Penuel, and John Barber.
Visitation will be held from 12:00 PM until 2:00 PM, Saturday, February 28, 2026 at Owens Memorial Chapel.
Letrice Anita Cedotal March 11, 1957 – February 24, 2026 Visitation: Saturday, February 28, 2026, 2:00PM – 3:00PM, at Kilpatrick Funeral Home
Earnestine Hunt February 14, 1940 – February 23, 2026 Visitation: Wednesday, February 25, 2026, 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM, Owens Memorial Chapel Funeral Home Graveside Service: Thursday, February 26, 2026, 2:00 PM, Salem Cemetery, 11793 HWY 151, Dubach
Allen Gene McClain, Jr. Monday 12/01/1952 — Sunday 02/15/2026
Brigitte Watson Fitzgerald March 25, 1956 – February 21, 2026 Visitation: Saturday, February 28, 2026, 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM, Owens Memorial Chapel Memorial Service: Saturday, February 28, 2026, 2:00 PM, Owens Memorial Chapel
Katherine Dorena “Doe” Wilson Clark February 23, 1948 – February 15, 2026 Visitation: Saturday, March 14, 2026, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM, Feazel Chapel at First Baptist Church West Monroe, 311 Mill St., West Monroe Celebration of Life: Saturday, March 14, 2026, 2:00 PM, Feazel Chapel at First Baptist Church West Monroe, 311 Mill St., West Monroe
Buc-ee’s will be one of the top two private investments in the history of the city.
by Malcolm Butler
Ruston is making history.
The good kind.
Over the course of the next two years, the City of Ruston will have the top three private investments under construction concurrently.
Ruston Mayor Ronny Walker said that roughly $180 million will be spent — give or take a few tens of millions — on three private investments, including Buc-ee’s, Willis Knighton Health Center, and the microchip plant.
The trio rank No. 1, No. 2 and No. 3 in the history of the city based off of price tag, according to Walker.
“Buc-ee’s is the largest private investment in the history of the City of Ruston,” said Walker. “This summer, we will break ground on what will surpass it as No. 1 with the construction of the microchip factory. So No. 1 and No. 2.
“Then the construction of Willis Knighton Health Center will join the other two to create the top three largest private investments in the history of the City of Ruston. They will be taking place in a 24-month span. That’s unheard of.”
So why does that happen?
“The city of Ruston passed Moving Ruston Forward and that has allowed us to invest in the infrastructure for these companies to come to our town,” said Walker.
Moving Ruston Forward was passed by voters in 2016, one year after Walker was elected. It is a three-quarter cent sales tax for 20 years that was earmarked for infrastructure projects.
“We told the people of Ruston that we would do $300 million in infrastructure projects within that 20 years and that we would solicit another $15 million in grants,” said Walker. “In the first 10 years of this, we have done over $250 million in infrastructure projects. We still have 10 more years so we could easily hit $400 to $500 million.
“Instead of $15 million in grants, we have already solicited $72 million in grants in just 10 years.”
Walker points to the advancements that Moving Ruston Forward to one of the main reasons the city has seen more than 100 new businesses open in the city during the past decade.
“Prior to Moving Ruston Forward, the city averaged about $3.5 million per year in infrastructure projects which would amount to $35 to $40 million over a decade,” said Walker. “It’s why we can be in Washington, DC or New York City or anywhere, and we run into people who are familiar with Ruston and they ask, ‘How are you doing what you are doing?’
“Without Moving Ruston Forward we wouldn’t have been able to do all of this.”
So while many cities within the state of Louisiana continue to struggle, Ruston does not.
“Any town this size to have those three projects underway at the same time … that’s unbelievable and impressive,” said Walker. “It says a lot about the reputation of our city.”
KAPLAN, La. — Ruston High School ended its regular season at the 28th Annual Kaplan Contraband Classic and competed against over 20 other schools.
“This was our last regular season tournament,” Ruston High Head Coach Sydney Phillips said. “We are now gearing up to end the season with Districts and State at the end of March. I’m excited to see all the competitors show off what they’ve worked so hard to perfect this season. As always, I’m so proud of the dedication and effort of the team.”
The Ruston results are as follow:
Humorous Interpretation Semifinalist- Ben Smith
Humorous Interpretation Finalists- Harper Anderson and Josie Bishop
5th in Extemporaneous Speaking- Harper Anderson
5th in Dramatic Interpretation Finalist- Oli Deal
5th in Declamation- Abi Ligon
3rd in Declamation- Nyah Metoyer
2nd in Informative Speaking- Oli Deal
2nd in Novice Impromptu Speaking- Cecilia Sheptoski
A Chatham woman and a male passenger were arrested on a Lincoln Parish traffic stop after drugs were found in the vehicle.
Donald Jenkins, 41, of Ruston, and Sanquetta Craft, 35, of Chatham, were both arrested after a Lincoln Parish deputy stopped a vehicle on La. Highway 149 on Feb. 21 for crossing the center lane center line into the opposing travel lane.
During the stop, a deputy detected the odor of green marijuana coming from inside the vehicle. A passenger who did not have identification gave his name as Jakelab Modest. However, the deputy was unable to locate a person by that name with the date of birth given by the man.
The man was removed from the vehicle and questioned again about his name and he identified himself as Donald Jenkins. A records check showed Jenkins was wanted for failure to appear in Third District Court on child support cases.
When Jenkins was arrested, a bag containing suspected marijuana was found in his right jacket pocket. A search of the vehicle located a glass smoking pipe containing suspected methamphetamine, a jar of suspected marijuana, and a plastic bag containing about 22 grams of marijuana where Jenkins had been seated. Jenkins claimed ownership of these items, according to a deputy’s report.
A bottle of gabapentin prescribed to a person not in the vehicle was located. Craft, the driver, admitted that it belonged to her. She said she got the prescription from someone and was taking them as painkillers.
After both were warned about taking any contraband into the detention center, both Jenkins and Craft denied having any drugs on them. As the patrol vehicle transporting them moved through the front gate of the Lincoln Parish Detention Center, Jenkins said he had a bag of synthetic marijuana on him. About 15.2 grams of suspected synthetic marijuana was recovered off Jenkins by detention center staff.
Jacob was booked on two bench warrants for child support violations, second offense possession of marijuana, possession of synthetic marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, introduction of contraband into a penal facility, and resisting an officer by giving false information.
Craft was booked for possession of a legend drug (gabapentin) and improper lane usage.
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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Ruston Elementary School celebrated 100 years of Black History Month with a showcase of leaders, inventors, educators, artists, athletes and everyday heroes who broke racial barriers and continue to make history. More than two dozen Black heroes ranging from Rosa Parks and Sojourner Truth to Michelle and Barack Obama were represented.
“The Rhythm of Resilience: A Black History Showcase” included two acts, a performance from the school’s cheerleaders and poetry celebrations.
Sponsored by RES faculty Alison Jones, Jamiya Williams and Deveon Bolton, with musical assistance from LaPashen Robinson-Jackson, the students learned their lines for the performance in about two weeks.
“This year is incredibly special as we celebrate the 100th anniversary of Black History commemorations,” Jones said. “It came to fruition beautifully. The kids perfected everything. I couldn’t be prouder of them.”
Stephanie Griffin, principal of RES, said this program is all for the students.
“I’m so proud of each and every one of them today, from our third graders, our fourth graders, and our fifth graders. Everyone was represented today,” Griffin said.
Jones added that she hoped this would further conversation with families and friends about Black History Month.
“I thank the parents for letting them participate,” she said. “And I hope it brings up discussions at home as far as Black History is concerned.”
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A man stopped for traffic violations was arrested in Lincoln Parish Sunday for DWI and possession of marijuana.
Christopher Dendra Flowers, 35, of Lillie, La., was stopped by a Lincoln Parish deputy on U.S. 167 near Vienna for an inoperative headlight at about 3:30 a.m. on February 22.
Flowers produced a Louisiana identification card, but a records check showed his driver’s license had been suspended and the registration for his Honda Accord was expired.
The deputy noticed Flowers had the odor of an alcoholic beverage on his breath, and he was unsteady on his feet. Flowers admitted to drinking alcohol earlier in the night and smoking marijuana. He performed poorly on field sobriety tests.
Flowers admitted to having a small bag of marijuana in his pocket. It was seized by a deputy, and Flowers was placed under arrest.
A breath test at the Lincoln Parish Detention Center showed Flowers’s blood alcohol content to be .117g%, well over the .08 legal limit. He was booked for first offense DWI, possession of marijuana, driving under suspension, expired vehicle registration, and inoperative headlight.
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.
