Choudrant voters have selected Kip Franklin to replace longtime mayor Bill Sanderson.
In complete but unofficial returns, the Lincoln Parish of Clerk indicated Franklin received 387 votes to 200 for Brandon Milner, a former Choudrant and Ruston police officer.
Franklin is Lincoln Parish’s Director of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness and retired Ruston firefighter.
It was Milner’s second run for mayor and Franklin’s first foray into politics.
Bill Sanderson has served as mayor since 1991 when he was appointed to complete the term of his father “Ikey” Sanderson who had passed away. Sanderson’s retirement on December 31 will mean Franklin will be the first person to hold the office since 1949 who was not named Sanderson.
After beating his opponent in 2002, Bill Sanderson was unopposed until 2022, when he defeated Milner 277-218 to win by 59 votes.
“I’m just elated,” Franklin said Tuesday night. “I don’t know how many people from Ruston and all over the parish told me they wished they lived in Choudrant so they could vote for me. That’s so comforting to know people feel that way.”
“I want to thank all my supporters in Choudrant and all over the parish,” Franklin said. The longtime public servant said he wanted to work to grow citizen participation in improving Choudrant.
Unofficial turnout for the mayoral election was 69.1%.
Retired state trooper John Clary bested incumbent police chief Willard Sullivan, taking 70% of the vote. In complete but unofficial returns, Clary received 405 votes to Sullivan’s 172.
Six candidates were vying for Choudrant’s Board of Aldermen with three positions slated to be filled. The top vote getters were Rick Maier (307), John Croswell (303), and Jake Haddox (268). Other candidates were Corey Martin (234), Donald Guillotte (169), and Bryce Rodgers (144).
Dubach mayor Mona Wilson will be in a runoff with challenger Corey Beckham.
by Wesley Harris
Dubach Mayor Mona Wilson received 42% of the vote in Tuesday’s election against two challengers, according to complete but unofficial returns.
Incumbent Wilson and Corey Beckham, both Republicans, will face off Dec. 12 in a runoff election.
Wilson received 121 votes to Beckham’s 93. Kimberly Gill, who listed no party affiliation, received 72 votes.
Only 51.3% of Dubach’s registered voters participated in the election.
Wilson is on medical leave according to a town hall official and could not be reached for comment.
In a social media post, Gill said, “Thank you to everyone who voted for me. I have to say this was the hardest thing I’ve personally ever done. I did meet some really nice folks along the way.”
Beckham initially thought he had lost to Wilson until told there was a runoff since no one received 50% of the vote.
“I’m not sure about a runoff, I guess we will see,” Beckham said in a social media post. “I’m definitely not going to withdraw. Looks like we get to do it again in December.”
Dubach Police Chief Don Dofour was elected to another term with 63% of the votes cast. Challenger Heath Humble, a former Minden police officer and state investigator, collected 107 votes to Dufour’s 179.
Only one council seat was contested in Dubach. Ruby Dawson and Etan Gipson were vying to replace Mary Billberry in District A who did not run for re-election. Gipson bested Dawson 65 to 39.
Four other council seats will be filled by unopposed candidates–Kyle Hennigan (District B), Richard Stevens (District C), and incumbents Evelyn Graham (District D) and Monique Roberts (District E).
It happened in Mobile, Alabama Saturday afternoon in the blink of a helmet to the midsection, the biggest moment in Louisiana Tech’s most recent victory during its improbable debut dance through the Sun Belt.
Faster than you could say “Duck!” or “Heads up!” or “Fire in the hole!,” there it suddenly was, the fate of a dicey, tug-of-rope game rolling there on the turf and looking very much like a football that had been dropped.
“Exciting to see that ball pop out,” Tech coach Sonny Cumbie said.
“I knew we were gonna get one,” said an enthusiastic and smiling Blake Baker about the takeaway, the junior quarterback being familiar with his team’s defense, the one that has registered a takeaway in 11 straight games and in 19 of their last 22.
“With this team,” Tech athletics director Ryan Ivey said, “you’re starting to expect them to make that kind of play.”
The guy with the best initial view of the fumble was a new Bulldog, a fourth-year college player named MJ Moultrie II. Before that pivotal moment with seconds left in the third quarter, the moment that would tip the scales and launch Tech to a 35-20 win over South Alabama in a crucial Sun Belt game, few Tech fans had heard of this youngster who’d prepped in Texas near Austin.
Moultrie. Maybe the name’s still not familiar.
But you can bet South Alabama running back Keenan Phillips knows him, can tell you what Moultrie’s helmet feels like if it hits you between your chest bones and belt buckle.
“We had just been talking about that play,” said Moultrie. “It was actually a good play they’d schemed up, one that we had to make an adjustment to. It was the first play they’d come back out with, so as soon as I saw the set, it was like I just knew what my key was and when to trigger.
“So I felt good,” the Hampton University transfer said, “about making the play.”
Which he did in this fashion: Phillips ran off tackle from his own 6 and there was Moultrie, with a running start, all triggered up and whatnot, to hit him at the 10. Ball loose. Many people. One ball. But it was not the first time Alonzo Jackson Jr. of Haynesville, a linebacker and Tech’s leading tackler, had seen a fumble or had seen people coveting it. Zo wanted it more, and smothered it.
On Halloween afternoon, a tell-tale moment for sure.
Tech scored two plays later, the defense pitched its 10th shutout in its most recent 12 quarters, and Tech, 6-2, came home from Hancock Whitney Stadium with a two-game lead in the West Division of the SBC at 4-0, 6-2 overall.
“A thing I like about (Tech defensive coordinator) Coach (Luke) Olson’s defense is that if something around the defense is messed up, he can just move one person — like in my position — and we can have a quick fix,” Moultrie said. “Just like that.”
Half-linebacker, half-defensive back, the 5-11, 195-pound Moultrie had five tackles Saturday, including the forced fumble, and Taeden Rogers, a second-year player and first-year Bulldog from California, shares the “Star” position and had seven tackles and a big sack.
Just like that.
In a season that’s been filled with critical moments, Moultrie’s fumble-causing, bone-crushing, game-tilting hit was the latest in a long line. Add those moments together, and you get an even bigger spotlight on Tech’s upcoming game against another southern Alabama Sun Belt foe, Troy (4-4, 2-2), Saturday at 3 p.m. in Veterans Memorial Stadium at Larry Blakeney Field on campus.
In the SBC division race, a win for Tech would give the Bulldogs the breathing room of a bovine on a Montana ranch; Tech has the league’s only unblemished record. The trouble is, the Trojans are at home and have had since Thursday’s road win at preseason favorite James Madison to get ready. Plus, Troy has scholarships, coaches, uniforms, practice gear … the whole deal. A win puts them right back in the race.
It shapes up to be another test for a Tech team that, at the kiddie table for a few seasons, seems to have earned a bit of favor with the football gods.
“We’ve got some battle scars, some callouses,” Cumbie said. “We’ve got some experiences to fall back on, like a 28-7 deficit (in the second half to Liberty last November) that we came back from. Do what you’re coached to do, be resilient … you’re never out of a game.”
That Liberty win has proven to be the first of eight straight the Dogs have won against G6 teams, including five this year; Tech’s two losses came on the road at LSU and Baylor, back to back.
Speaking of back-to-back, the most recent time Tech won back-to-back football games in Alabama was in 1997 against Alabama, 26-20, and UAB, 32-29. Tim Rattay, the wide receivers and passing game coordinator for South Alabama last week, was the Tech quarterback.
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Devin Davis (left) and Karl Malone Toyota’s Josh Evans (right)
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Congratulations to DEVIN DAVIS, this week’s pick’em contest winner sponsored by Karl Malone Toyota! Devin won with a 13-2 record on a really difficult week!
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Lincoln Parish Journal readers have an opportunity each week to win FREE money in the Karl Malone Toyota College Football Pick’em presented by Johnson Physical Therapy, Ruston Athletic Supply, and The Rental Association.
And the best part is it’s FREE … just like your subscription to the LPJ.
Bigger question. Are you ready to win $150 in cash … with the potential to make it $300 if you are perfect on the week (including predicting the No. 1 tiebreaker exactly right).
The Lincoln Parish Journal is holding the 5th Annual Karl Malone Toyota College Football Pick’em Contest presented by The Rental Association, Ruston Athletic Supply, and Johnson Physical Therapy.
If you live in the deep south, you know College Football is King!
Anyone is eligible to participate and each week one lucky winner will go home with a $150 cash prize. Each week the winner will be the participant with the best record out of 15 selected college football games (ties will be broken by two separate tiebreakers consisting of guessing the total points scored in two of our weekly contests).
The Karl Malone Toyota College Football Pick’em Contest presented by Ruston Athletic Supply, Johnson Physical Therapy, and The Rental Association will be conducted for 14 regular season weeks of the college season starting with Week 1 games.
There is no entry fee, just like there is no cost to SUBSCRIBE to the Lincoln Parish Journal where it will come to your inbox every weekday morning. It takes 20-30 seconds to sign up and not much longer than that to make your picks.
All contest decisions by LPJ management are final. Weekly winners will be notified Monday and will be requested to take a photo that will run in the following week’s LPJ.
Every participant will receive a FREE subscription to the Journal, if you’re not already signed up for the easily-navigated, convenient 6:55 a.m. daily e-mail. Enjoy it all, for FREE, and enter each week’s contest. You could collect $150 each week!
2026 WINNERS
Week 1: Michael Davis
Week 2: Patrick Taylor
Week 3: Lance Colvin
Week 4: Zoe Collum
Week 5: Ben Harvey
Week 6: Bill Davis
Week 7: Mechelle Brown
Week 8: Barry Morales
Week 9: Devin Davis
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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.
Wednesday, Nov. 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) 6:30 p.m.: GSU volleyball
Thursday, Nov. 5 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Kiwanis Club lunch and program (Trinity Methodist Church fellowship hall; Anyone is welcome to come to our meeting,please notify Richard Hamilton of your attendance. 318-518-2121) Noon: Louisiana Master Gardeners Easy Pruning Workshop (Lincoln Parish Library Events Center) 4pm: Tween Time (Lincoln Parish Library Events Center) 4:30-5:30 p.m.: Free meal sponsored by Trinity’s Game Changers and Ruston Rotary Club to be served at the Ruston Housing Authority office, 901 MLK Drive. All are welcome. 6 p.m.: Lincoln Parish School Board meeting (410 S. Farmerville St., Ruston) 6 p.m.: Southern A’Chord Chorus rehearsal (Presbyterian Church fellowship hall, 212 N. Bonner St.; open to all women singers) 6pm: Teen Advisory Board (Lincoln Parish Library Events Center)
Friday, Nov. 6 7-9 a.m.: Kiwanis Pancake breakfast (Ruston Civic Center) 6 p.m.: GSU volleyball 6:30 p.m.: LA Tech volleyball 7 p.m.: Lincoln Prep v. Cedar Creek (at Cedar Creek)
Saturday, Nov. 7 Ruston Community Men’s Shed Open House; ShedEats at noon 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Farmers Market 2 p.m.: GSU football 6:30 p.m.: LA Tech volleyball
Sunday, Nov. 8 6 p.m.: GSU volleyball
Monday, Nov. 9 11 a.m.: Veterans Day program hosted by Lincoln Parish branch of NAACP (Ruston Sports Complex, Origin Bank Room) 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) 6-9 p.m.: Creative Meetups (Creatives at Work, 301 N. Trenton)
Wednesday, Nov. 11 Veterans Day 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, Nov. 12 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Kiwanis Club lunch and program (Trinity Methodist Church fellowship hall; Anyone is welcome to come to our meeting,please notify Richard Hamilton of your attendance. 318-518-2121) 4 p.m.: Tween Time (Lincoln Parish Library Events Center) 5-8:30 p.m.: Holidays in Cedartown (Ruston Civic Center) 6 p.m.: Southern A’Chord Chorus rehearsal (Presbyterian Church fellowship hall, 212 N. Bonner St.; open to all women singers) 6 p.m.: Teen Nutcracker Decorating (Lincoln Parish Library Events Center) 6 p.m.: Bonds, Blooms, & Building the Future: Americans and the Holocaust, with Louisiana Tech University (Lincoln Parish Library Events Center)
Friday, Nov. 13 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.: Holidays in Cedartown (Ruston Civic Center) 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Out to Lunch concert series (Heard Freighthouse Food Park)
Saturday, Nov. 14 8:30-11:30 a.m.: Hazardous Waste Material Collection and Recycling (2609 Farmerville St.) 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Farmers Market 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.: Holidays in Cedartown (Ruston Civic Center) 4 p.m.: LA Tech football
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The Kiwanis Club of Ruston meets every Thursday at noon at Trinity Methodist Church. The first Thursday of the month is a business meeting, while the remainder of the weeks are devoted to our speakers.
Anyone is welcome to come to our meeting, but please notify Randall Boyd of your attendance at 318-614-3735.
This week’s speaker is: Thursday at Ruston Civic Center at 11:30 a.m. to prep for Kiwanis Pancake Breakfast (on Friday)
Kiwanis is a global organization of volunteers dedicated to improving the world one Child and one Community at a time.
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LINCOLN ROTARY CLUB
Lincoln Rotary Club is a service organization dedicated to making a positive impact in Ruston, Lincoln Parish, and communities around the world. As part of Rotary International, whose mission is to provide service, promote integrity, and advance goodwill and peace, Lincoln Rotary members are committed to addressing local needs through hands-on projects, partnerships, and community engagement.
Lincoln Rotary meets on Friday mornings at 7:00 a.m. at the Rolling Hills Ministries Book Store, located at 1103 Farmerville Hwy, Ruston, LA 71270. Visitors and prospective members are always welcome to attend and learn more about Rotary’s motto, “Service Above Self.”
Each weekly meeting normally features a guest speaker who shares insights on topics impacting our community, region, and beyond.
This week’s speaker is: Matt Thorne, LA Tech Athletics (to tour construction of the Origin Bank Center for Student Athlete Success)
For more information about the Lincoln Rotary Club, membership opportunities, or upcoming service projects, contact via the club’s social media pages.
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RUSTON ROTARY
Ruston Rotary is the oldest Rotary Club in Lincoln Parish, with over 80 years of service to the Ruston community since its charter on February 13, 1943. It meets weekly for fellowship, food and insight, as well as to implement community projects. Their projects include scholarships for graduating high school seniors, dictionaries for third-graders, Christmas gifts for local nursing homes, and fans for the elderly.
It hosts monthly recognition for Lincoln Parish Students of the Month, and it presents the Bill Best Humanitarian Award annually to a deserving Lincoln Parish resident. It also provides camp opportunities for local students to RYLA, the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards.
The Rotary motto is Service above Self. Come be part of Ruston Rotary and help create a lasting impact by giving back to the community with a sense of accomplishment and camaraderie.
Together we see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change across the globe, in our communities and in ourselves.
Ruston Rotary meets every Wednesday at noon at the Historic Fire Station at 200 East Mississippi in Ruston, and lunch is provided at each meeting. Stop in for a meeting one week to find out more about membership with our organization.
This week’s speaker is: Lauren Dowden, Ruston Main Street Director
For the latest local news, subscribe FOR FREE to the Lincoln Parish Journal and receive an email each weekday morning at 6:45 right to your inbox.Just CLICK HERE to sign up.
RUSTON, La. — Following an impressive 24-10 overall record and another district championship, the Ruston High Lady Bearcats earned the No. 8 overall seed in the 2026 LHSAA volleyball postseason tournament and will host No. 25 Live Oak tonight at home at 5:30 p.m.
“I’m so excited to be able to host this year and get to play again with these seniors in front of a home crowd,” Ruston High Head Coach Mandy Cauley said. “The girls worked really hard to create this opportunity for themselves and I’m very excited to see their hard work payoff.”
During the season, Cauley won her 150th LHSAA match as a head coach, and senior setter Baylor Cauley reached the 2,500 assist mark for her career.
Should Ruston win, the Lady Bearcats would then host the winner of No. 9 Chalmette and No. 24 Hahnville.
Margaret Huffman Delony, 87, of Ruston, LA, passed away peacefully November 2, 2026 at her home. A funeral service will be held at Calvary Baptist Church in Ruston on Thursday, November 5, 2026 at 10:00 AM with visitation preceding the service beginning at 9:00 AM. Officiating will be Andrew Bates. Burial will follow at Vienna Cemetery under the direction of Owens Memorial Chapel Funeral Home of Ruston.
Margaret was born on August 9, 1939 in Dubach, LA. She was a graduate of Dubach High School and attended Louisiana Tech University. She married Roy Delony on September 4, 1959, and they had two daughters, Daphne and Elise. She helped manage Delony’s Store in Vienna for many years, but her greatest achievement was at home where she loved, cared for, and provided for her family. Margaret also was a caregiver to many people in their later years of life, especially to Roy during the last 15 years of his life. Margaret trusted and relied upon Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior and faithfully served at Calvary Baptist Church for over 65 years.
Left behind to cherish her memory is her daughter, Daphne Taylor and husband Kirk of Ruston; grandchildren, Daniel Taylor and wife Laura of Ruston, Dustin Taylor and wife Erin of Ruston, Claire Lavers and husband Tim of Cypress, TX, Thomas Heathman and wife Hannah of Galveston, TX, and Leslie Marek and husband Chance of Stillwater, OK. Margaret was also blessed with 10 great-grandchildren who all adored Nanny: Garrett, Jax, Peyton, Harper, McKenzie and Annabelle Taylor, all of Ruston; Savannah and Ethan Lavers of Cypress, TX; and Brooks and Caleb Marek of Stillwater, OK. Margaret is also survived by her brothers, Jerry Huffman and wife Laura of Lillie, LA and Keith Huffman and wife Joanie of Ruston, LA, along with many nieces and nephews and cousins.
Preceding Margaret in death were her parents, T. R. and Maggie Huffman; her daughter, Elise Delony Heathman; two great-grandsons, Noah Daniel Taylor and Cameron James Marek; and sisters, Alice Ruth Audirsch and Carolyn Taylor.
Pallbearers will be Chris Gray, Allan Hart, Jerry Houston, Jim McCallum, Garrett Taylor and Tommy Taylor. Any memorials can be made to Calvary Baptist Church Building Fund, 5200 Hwy 167, Ruston, LA 71270.
Terry Earl Hall Aug 16, 1959 — Oct 31, 2026 Visitation: Wednesday, November 4, 2026, 1:00 – 2:00 pm, Dean Baptist Church, 2309 LA 827, Marion Memorial Service: Wednesday, November 4, 2026, 2:00 pm, Dean Baptist Church, 2309 LA 827, Marion Burial: Wednesday, November 4, 2026, Reppond Cemetery, Crow Farm Road, Marion
Pictured is Ruston Mayor Ronny Walker and the city’s Board of Aldermen presenting a proclamation to Daniel and Rebecca Smart. (Photo by T. Scott Boatright)
By T. Scott Boatright
The primary order of business at Monday’s Ruston City Council meeting was authorizing a resolution for the city to acquire property and institute expropriation actions necessary for construction and completion of Phase 2 of the Interstate 20 Frontage Road project from Tarbutton Road to Louisiana Highway 149.
But the most impactful moment came before the meeting itself as a visibly emotional Mayor Ronny Walker read a proclamation declaring Aug. 21 of each year Ruston Day of Hope.
Walker read the proclamation aloud before presenting it to Daniel and Rebecca Smart, parents of the late Lillian Smart, who died Aug. 22 after battling a rare brain infection.
Lillian Smart’s birthday was Aug. 21.
“Whereas the strength and character of the city of Ruston were demonstrated with the compassion, generosity and support the citizens showed to each other, particularly to children experiencing times of illness, hardship, loss and need,” Walker said, his voice choking with emotion. “And every child facing a difficult time deserves to know that he or she is seen, valued, supported and surrounded by a community that cares. The story of Lillian Smart, whose birthday is Aug. 21, inspired individuals, families and businesses and organizations throughout the Ruston community to come together in an extraordinary demonstration of compassion, generosity and support, and the community response inspired by them demonstrated the profound impact that can occur when a community rallies around a child during a difficult season.
“The city of Ruston is carrying that spirit forward to encourage compassion and support for all children and families facing illness, loss and difficult circumstances, and Aug. 21 of each year for the citizens of Ruston to transform compassion into action and bring hope to children throughout our community. Now therefore be it resolved that Ronny Walker, mayor of the city of Ruston, Louisiana, and its Board of Aldermen, do hereby recognize and proclaim Aug. 21 of each year Ruston Day of Hope.”
After the meeting began, the first order of business was approval of the resolution for Phase 2 of the frontage road project, which will extend the service road being built next to the Buc-ee’s Travel Center under construction off Tarbutton Road.
“This resolution authorizes the city to acquire specified parcels in connection with Phase 2 of the Frontage Road Project,” City Attorney Bill Carter said as he explained the resolution. “As you know, we have acquired the property necessary for the first segment of that project, which was Phase 1-A, which is currently under construction. This is the second segment of the three segments involved traversing from Tarbutton (Road) to La. 149 in Grambling. This segment extends to 1-A west of the Buc-ee’s development, extends 3,400 feet to the west end of the city limits through property that was recently annexed by the city.”
Ruston’s Board of Aldermen also introduced two proposed ordinances that will be discussed and voted on at a later meeting.
The first would grant a nonexclusive limited franchise to Entergy LLC to provide electric service to designated developments within the city of Ruston.
The second would establish the dates, times and locations of regular Board of Aldermen meetings for the 2027 calendar year.
The board also passed two resolutions authorizing the sale of surplus movable property, including old transformers and scrap metal materials.
A specially called meeting of the Dubach Town Council Monday evening drew a larger-than-usual crowd, but few residents spoke as council members attempted to address concerns circulating in the community on the eve of Tuesday’s mayoral election.
The meeting’s original agenda listed its purpose as addressing “town issues surrounding mayoral race.” However, council member Kyle Hennigan moved to amend the agenda to simply “town issues,” removing the reference to the election. Monique Roberts seconded the motion, and the revised agenda was adopted.
A Dubach police officer and a Lincoln Parish deputy were present following the acrimony that has accompanied extensive social media discussions of community issues and the upcoming election.
Mayor Mona Wilson, who is on medical leave, did not attend the meeting. Council member Angela Dunn was also absent.
Council member Evelyn Graham explained she had requested the special meeting to give residents an opportunity to express concerns and obtain information about town operations.
Graham said the meeting was prompted partly by confusion surrounding the resignation of Town Clerk Tatjana Marsh, which had become public on social media.
Graham said she wanted residents to understand the town was not without a clerk and that municipal operations would continue.
She also cited hostility, misinformation, and accusations circulating in the community as reasons for bringing residents together for discussion.
Graham emphasized the gathering was not a regular council meeting and that officials would not address questions concerning Wilson’s personal circumstances.
“There are some questions we don’t have the answers to,” Graham said, explaining that other matters might have to wait until a regular council meeting.
She encouraged residents to ask questions about town business, including finances and municipal services, and urged those attending to remain respectful.
After the meeting was opened for public comment, several minutes of silence followed as the audience declined an initial invitation to speak.
When a resident asked whether Wilson would remain on Tuesday’s election ballot, Marsh confirmed the mayor had not resigned and remained eligible for reelection.
Marsh also addressed her own resignation, submitted last week, explaining she would continue working until the council hired a replacement.
“The town needs to run regardless,” Marsh said. “The bills need to be paid. The employees need to be paid.”
In response to another citizen, Marsh said the clerk position had not yet been formally advertised but that interested applicants could submit résumés. She explained that the council hires the clerk and that the mayor and council participate in reviewing applicants.
She also offered to assist her eventual replacement, noting that the position involves municipal procedures and legal requirements beyond routine bookkeeping.
None of the contentious issues circulating regarding candidates, town officials, finances, the water system, or recent accusatory social media posts were brought up during the brief meeting.
Near the end of the meeting, a resident questioned who had called the special session and whether the mayor had been notified.
Graham acknowledged she had requested the meeting and said she understood that a council member could initiate a special meeting by notifying the clerk, provided three council members attended.
Asked whether she had notified Wilson, Graham said she had not contacted the mayor and believed that responsibility rested with the clerk.
The exchange raised questions about the procedures used to call the meeting, but no formal determination concerning those procedures was made during the session.
Louisiana’s Lawrason Act states a special meeting of the town council can be called by the mayor or a majority of council members. Graham appears to have acted alone in directing the town clerk to post and circulate the meeting notice.
Following the meeting, Marsh provided additional information about allegations circulating on social media concerning town finances and her resignation.
Marsh, who began working as town clerk August 18, said she had provided a resident with financial records for July, August, and September. She believes a misunderstanding of transfers between municipal accounts may have led to allegations that money was missing. She said no funds were missing and attributed the rumor to misreading town financial records or mere speculation.
Marsh said the town’s accounts have balanced during her tenure and that Wilson does not have direct access to the municipal bank accounts. She said checks require two signatures and council members receive monthly financial reports.
Addressing speculation connecting her resignation to the financial allegations, Marsh said her decision to leave followed hostile emails and telephone calls by Dubach residents, criticism of her work, and what she considered a lack of support from town officials.
She said she had worked in finance for years and objected to suggestions that her resignation indicated wrongdoing.
Marsh said she remains willing to explain the town’s financial records to residents or council members who have questions.
“My office is open,” she said. “And I will gladly explain to people what I do and how it’s done.”
Marsh said she still
intends to leave the position but will continue assisting the town during the transition. She also confirmed Mayor Wilson is on medical leave.
A Bernice man was arrested Friday night after a Ruston police officer on foot patrol found him with an open container of alcohol.
Jatavious Buggs, 27, of Bernice, was arrested at 11:32 p.m. Oct. 30 by the Ruston Police Department at Park Avenue and North Trenton Street.
According to an arrest affidavit, an officer on foot patrol saw a man holding an open container of alcohol at about 11:30 p.m. When the officer approached, the man tried to hide behind another man and looked as though he was about to run. The officer grabbed him and escorted him to the patrol unit.
The officer heard him yelling profane language, and several people came over to see what was going on. The officer also noted a strong odor of alcohol, bloodshot, glassy eyes and unsteadiness, and said the man nearly fell several times.
The man gave the officer a false name and refused to give a date of birth. He was placed in the patrol unit. Dispatch provided a driver’s license photo that the officer and another officer agreed was not a match. The man then gave his real name and date of birth, which the officer confirmed was Buggs. The officer said tattoo placement in photos showed that two entries in the state system with similar birth dates were the same person.
Dispatch also advised that Buggs had two active Third Judicial District Court bench warrants, one for operating while intoxicated and one for no driver’s license.
Buggs was taken to Lincoln Parish Detention Center and booked on charges of disturbing the peace by appearing intoxicated, disturbing the peace by profanity, open container of alcohol in public and resisting an officer by providing false information. He was also booked as a fugitive from another jurisdiction on the two Third Judicial District Court warrants.
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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Habitat for Humanity of North Louisiana invites the community to its fourth annual Home for the Holidays event on Thursday, November 12, from 6:00 to 8:30 p.m. at The Big House in Ruston.
This special evening will bring together some of Ruston’s favorite restaurants, local businesses, and community members for a night of delicious food, live entertainment, and an exciting silent auction — all benefiting Habitat for Humanity’s work in Ruston.
Tickets are $50 per person and can be purchased online here.
The silent auction features an impressive collection of unique experiences, trips, and specialty packages. Bidding is now open! Guests can get an early start on their favorite items, and those unable to attend or living outside of Ruston can still participate by bidding online.
For more information about Home for the Holidays, visit our website.
The event is made possible through the generous support of local businesses, including presenting sponsors HGA and Argent, whose contributions help make the evening a success.
Building More Than Homes
In Ruston, Habitat for Humanity is developing a 17-home neighborhood at the corner of Jones and Union Avenues, and proceeds from Home for the Holidays will directly support this project.
Two homes have already been completed and are occupied by local families, with construction of a third beginning this fall. Each new home represents more than a place to live — it’s an opportunity for a family to build a stronger future while strengthening the Ruston community.
In September, Habitat introduced Ashley Spencer, a City of Ruston employee and mother of two, as its newest homeowner partner. Through Habitat’s affordable homeownership program, Ashley and her children will have the opportunity to build a more stable and secure future.
“We’re not just building houses. We’re helping families establish stability, create opportunities, and build a better future for their children,” said Nancy Hunt, Chairman of the Board of Habitat for Humanity of North Louisiana. “Home for the Holidays celebrates what makes Ruston so special — people coming together to make a difference in our community. Through ticket purchases, auction bids, and sponsorships, our community is helping Habitat continue building homes and creating opportunities for local families.”
Join us November 12 for an evening of great food, community, and giving back — and help Habitat for Humanity continue building homes and hope right here in Ruston.
A Ruston man was arrested early Sunday after a one-vehicle crash on Interstate 20 west of Ruston.
Justin Blake, 24, of Ruston, was arrested at 4:35 a.m. Nov. 1 by the Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s Office on I-20 westbound near the 93 mile marker.
According to an arrest affidavit, a deputy responded to the crash and was immediately approached by a motorist who had stopped after seeing the vehicle in the road. The motorist pointed to the driver, said he was intoxicated and said a second crash had occurred because the vehicle came to rest in the left lane.
The deputy noted a strong odor of alcohol coming from Blake, strong enough to be detected even as vehicles passed by creating wind. Blake’s speech was extremely slurred, and he would begin sentences and stop before finishing them, the affidavit states.
Blake said he hydroplaned and caused the crash. The deputy wrote that the tire marks showed the vehicle veered straight off the road into the cable barriers.
Blake was advised of his rights and said he understood them, but refused to speak without a lawyer present. He also refused to take a field sobriety test. He was handcuffed and taken to Lincoln Parish Detention Center, where he refused to provide a chemical sample.
A records check showed Blake was arrested June 10, 2023, in Lincoln Parish on a first-offense operating while intoxicated charge.
Blake was booked on charges of careless operation and operating while impaired, second offense.
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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What’s on the ballot, and what does it mean for you?
Lincoln Parish voters will help decide the fate of 10 proposed amendments to the Louisiana Constitution on Nov. 3. The proposals address everything from property taxes and criminal justice to gubernatorial term limits.
Here’s a look at each amendment and its ballot language.
LINCOLN PARISH | NOVEMBER 3, 2026 ELECTION
CA No. 1 | Act No. 39, 2026-RS | SB 180
Allows a one-time transfer of a property tax exemption for surviving spouse of a disabled veteran
Do you support an amendment to allow the surviving spouse of a deceased veteran with a service-connected disability, who receives the additional property tax exemption, to make a one-time transfer of the additional property tax exemption to a subsequent qualifying property? (Effective January 1, 2027) (Amends Article VII, Section 21(K)(1));
☐ YES ☐ NO
_________________________________________
CA No. 2 | Act No. 273, 2026-RS | HB 521
Allows taxing authority to continue lower millage rate without losing ability to adjust to max rate
Do you support an amendment to allow a local taxing authority to continue to levy a lower millage rate without losing its ability to adjust to the maximum authorized millage rate from a prior year’s reassessment? (Effective January 1, 2027) (Amends Article VII, Section 23(C));
☐ YES ☐ NO
_________________________________________
CA No. 3 | Act No. 271, 2026-RS | HB 51
Prohibits release on bail for defendants who have been convicted of certain offenses against a child
Do you support an amendment to prohibit a defendant from being released on any post-conviction bail if the defendant is convicted of an aggravated offense against a minor child? (Adds Article I, Section 18(C));
☐ YES ☐ NO
_________________________________________
CA No. 4 | Act No. 414, 2026-RS | HB 225
Sets a lifetime term limit on a person who has served as governor more than one and one-half terms
Do you support an amendment to prohibit a person who has served more than one and one-half terms as governor from being elected as governor for any future term? (Amends Article IV, Section 3(B));
☐ YES ☐ NO
_________________________________________
CA No. 5 | Act No. 606, 2026-RS | HB 27
Authorizes retirement systems to apply funds to any unfunded accrued liability, not only the oldest
Do you support an amendment to authorize a state retirement system to apply any nonrecurring state monies it receives to any of its unfunded accrued liability rather than requiring application to its oldest unfunded accrued liability? (Amends Article VII, Section 10(D)(2)(b)(iii));
☐ YES ☐ NO
_________________________________________
CA No. 6 | Act No. 274, 2026-RS | HB 514
Authorizes extension of an additional property tax exemption for owners who are 65 or older
Do you support an amendment to authorize parishes and municipalities to extend an additional property tax exemption for property subject to the homestead exemption that is owned and occupied by a person who is at least sixty-five years of age and who qualifies for the special assessment level? (Effective January 1, 2028) (Adds Article VII, Section 21(P));
☐ YES ☐ NO
_________________________________________
CA No. 7 | Act No. 607, 2026-RS | SB 228
Authorizes the use of public funds to identify, inventory, remove, or replace certain water lines
Do you support an amendment to allow for the use of public funds by a political subdivision for the purpose of identifying, inventorying, removing or replacing drinking water utility service lines made of or affected by materials as specified or prescribed by the Lead and Copper Rule Improvements of the United States Environmental Protection Agency, promulgated October 30, 2024, or subsequent promulgation, on property owned by utility customers? (Amends Article VII, Section 14);
☐ YES ☐ NO
_________________________________________
CA No. 8 | Act No. 277, 2026-RS | HB 192
Prohibits expropriation of property by a foreign adversary or an agent of a foreign adversary
Do you support an amendment to prohibit expropriation of property by a foreign adversary or an agent of a foreign adversary? (Amends Article I, Section 4(B)(4));
☐ YES ☐ NO
_________________________________________
CA No. 9 | Act No. 220, 2025-RS | HB 300
Increases the income limit to qualify for the special assessment level for a homestead exemption
Do you support an amendment to increase the maximum amount of income a person may receive and still qualify for the special assessment level for residential property receiving the homestead exemption? (Effective January 1, 2027) (Amends Article VII, Section 18(G)(1)(a)(ii));
☐ YES ☐ NO
_________________________________________
CA No. 10 | Act No. 272, 2026-RS | HB 214
Allows property tax exemption of rehabilitated blighted property under conditions provided by law
Do you support an amendment to allow property tax exemptions for blighted or derelict properties that have been rehabilitated, and to require the legislature to enact laws providing for administration of these exemptions? (Effective January 1, 2027) (Adds Article VII, Section 21(P));
By Dr. Skylar Souyoul, Board-Certified Dermatologist
Sadly, Summer 2026 has come to an end, but Fall is the perfect time for a skin reset. I like to utilize this time to erase the hyperpigmentation left over from summer, soften unwanted fine lines, and revitalize dull skin. Below are my top three treatments I am doing this Fall as a board certified dermatologist.
PRX: The Holiday Glow With No Downtime
PRX is my go-to if you have a big event on the calendar such as a wedding, family photo session, or a holiday party. This needle-free treatment is applied in my office. There is no downtime, no visible peeling, and no recovery period so you can go straight back to your day. What you get is a smoother, brighter, more radiant complexion that feels and photographs beautifully. For best results I recommend doing a series of four PRX treatments, spaced one week apart.
Microneedling: For Longterm Improvement In Lines, Wrinkles, and Texture
For a lasting change, microneedling is my favorite. During the treatment tiny, controlled micro-injuries prompt the skin to produce fresh collagen and elastin which keep our skin firm and smooth. Over a series of three treatments, spaced out monthly, patients experience visible improvement in fine lines, wrinkles, and overall texture. If you have melasma, adding brightening exosomes to your microneedling treatment has the added benefit of improving unwanted hyperpigmentation. Starting now means your results will continue to build through the winter months.
Chemical Peels: A Classic for Good Reason
Chemical peels remain one of the most effective ways to tackle unwanted hyperpigmentation and improve skin texture. By removing damaged outer layers of skin, a peel reveals fresher, more even skin underneath. Peels can be customized from light to deeper formulations depending on your concerns, skin type, and available downtime. Peels work well for sun spots, post-acne marks, and rough texture. Since peels make skin more sensitive to the sun, fall and winter are the safest seasons to do them.
Choosing What’s Right for You
The best treatment depends on your skin type, goals, and timeline. If you aren’t sure what you need, schedule a free consultation with Dr. Skylar Souyoul. She is currently accepting new patients at her office, Souyoul Dermatology & Aesthetics, located inside Bayou Dermatology (911 Tech Drive, Ruston, LA 71270). To make an appointment, please call or text her office at (318) 708-9408. You can follow Dr. Souyoul at @drskylarsouyoul on Instagram and Facebook for the latest information on skincare, cosmetic injections, and skin rejuvenation procedures. Or, visit her website souyoulderm.com to learn more.
Approximately 50 children rode their trikes, scooters and bicycles at this fall’s St. Jude Trike-A-Thon at Emmanuel Baptist Church and raised $4,660 for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
“It was a joy to watch our children participate, have fun, and learn the importance of helping others,” Amanda Martin, Emmanuel Baptist Preschool director, said. “We are proud for each child doing their part to support such a wonderful cause.”
The event is coordinated by Jessica Harp, preschool assistant director. Children ages 1 to 5 years old took part.
“What a wonderful opportunity it has been to teach our little ones about kindness, compassion and making a difference in the lives of others,” Martin said. “Every donation helps support the mission of St. Jude and gives hope to the children and their families.”
The trike-a-thon program offers a way to combine fun and education to help preschoolers and their teachers understand how they can support St. Jude’s mission, said Beth Fife, president of the Zeta Rho chapter of Epsilon Sigma Alpha, which provided event volunteers.
As part of the event, St. Jude provides materials for a week of learning and fun activities, teaching children riding-toy safety.
For the latest local news, subscribe FOR FREE to the Lincoln Parish Journal and receive an email each weekday morning at 6:45 right to your inbox.Just CLICK HERE to sign up.
Lincoln Parish Journal readers have an opportunity each week to win FREE money in the Karl Malone Toyota College Football Pick’em presented by Johnson Physical Therapy, Ruston Athletic Supply, and The Rental Association.
And the best part is it’s FREE … just like your subscription to the LPJ.
Bigger question. Are you ready to win $150 in cash … with the potential to make it $300 if you are perfect on the week (including predicting the No. 1 tiebreaker exactly right).
The Lincoln Parish Journal is holding the 5th Annual Karl Malone Toyota College Football Pick’em Contest presented by The Rental Association, Ruston Athletic Supply, and Johnson Physical Therapy.
If you live in the deep south, you know College Football is King!
Anyone is eligible to participate and each week one lucky winner will go home with a $150 cash prize. Each week the winner will be the participant with the best record out of 15 selected college football games (ties will be broken by two separate tiebreakers consisting of guessing the total points scored in two of our weekly contests).
The Karl Malone Toyota College Football Pick’em Contest presented by Ruston Athletic Supply, Johnson Physical Therapy, and The Rental Association will be conducted for 14 regular season weeks of the college season starting with Week 1 games.
There is no entry fee, just like there is no cost to SUBSCRIBE to the Lincoln Parish Journal where it will come to your inbox every weekday morning. It takes 20-30 seconds to sign up and not much longer than that to make your picks.
All contest decisions by LPJ management are final. Weekly winners will be notified Monday and will be requested to take a photo that will run in the following week’s LPJ.
Every participant will receive a FREE subscription to the Journal, if you’re not already signed up for the easily-navigated, convenient 6:55 a.m. daily e-mail. Enjoy it all, for FREE, and enter each week’s contest. You could collect $150 each week!
Follow the Lincoln Parish Journal each morning at 6:55 right to your inbox. It’s FREE! Just CLICK HERE to sign up.
