Thanksgiving has always been more than a holiday. It is a pause button placed firmly near the end of the year—a reminder that despite the speed, noise, and pressure of modern life, there are some things too important to neglect. Chief among them is family.
In a world that constantly pushes us toward the next deadline, the next notification, the next obligation, Thanksgiving invites us to slow down long enough to truly see the people in front of us. It reminds us that our connections with one another are not distractions from life—they are life. The table we gather around, the conversations we share, and the traditions we pass from one generation to the next form the foundation of who we are and who we hope to be.
For many families, this year has not been easy. Economic uncertainty, rising costs, health challenges, and the lingering strain of national division have all taken their toll. Yet Thanksgiving teaches us that even in difficult seasons, gratitude can anchor us. It helps us focus not on what is missing, but on what remains: love, loyalty, shared memories, and the people who continue to stand by us even when the world feels unsteady.
Putting family first does not require grand gestures. It can be as simple as setting our phones aside for a few hours, listening without distraction, or offering a sincere thank-you to someone who quietly keeps everything running. It means showing up—with patience, with kindness, and with a willingness to forgive the small imperfections that every family carries. It means recognizing that time is precious, that moments are fleeting, and that the relationships around us deserve our best attention, not just our leftover energy.
This Thanksgiving, let us choose to be fully present. Let us remember that family is not defined solely by blood, but by commitment, compassion, and the people who walk beside us through every season. Let us honor the elders who shaped us, encourage the children who are watching us, and embrace those who may be feeling the weight of the holidays more than they want to admit.
Above all, let us make the conscious choice to put family first—not just on Thanksgiving Day, but throughout the year ahead. Because long after the dishes are washed and the leftovers are gone, it is our bonds with one another that will sustain us, steady us, and shape the stories we pass down.
May this Thanksgiving bring warmth to your home, peace to your heart, and a renewed appreciation for the people who make your life meaningful.
The following arrests were made by local law enforcement officers.
11/16/25
Michael Lowe of Ruston was arrested for Operating a Vehicle with Suspended License; Other Offenses.
11/17/25
Eloy Mendoza of Dallas, TX, was arrested for Fugitive and Driver Must Be Licensed.
11/18/25
Juan Lopez of Tyler, TX, was arrested for Maximum Speed Limit and DWI – 1st Offense (BAC .15 to .19; Misdemeanor).
Thomas Miles of Crossett, AR, was arrested for Fugitive.
Dylan Parker of Jamestown was arrested for Theft.
11/19/25
Sharon Lockaby of Atlanta, GA, was arrested for Distribution/Manufacture of Cocaine (Felony); Simple Criminal Damage to Property (Misdemeanor); and DWI – 1st Offense (BAC .08 to .15; Misdemeanor).
11/22/25
Robert Johnson of Gibsland was arrested for Operating Vehicle with Suspended License; No License Issued.
Anthony Bow of Shreveport was arrested for DWI – 1st Offense (BAC .15 to .19; Misdemeanor) and Careless Operation.
This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named 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.
As tax bills are mailed out and property continues to be bought and sold across Bienville Parish, the Bienville Parish Assessor’s Office wants to remind all buyers, sellers, and notaries of an important step in the process: ensure that property taxes are paid at the time deeds are filed.
Too often, tracts of land are lost in tax sales year after year simply because taxes were overlooked during the transfer process. Once ownership changes hands, it can be unclear who is responsible for payment, and unpaid taxes can quickly lead to penalties, interest, and even a loss of the property at a future tax sale. For anyone involved in a property transaction, whether buying, selling, or filing paperwork, take the time to confirm that the current year’s taxes are paid in full.
When in doubt, call the Bienville Parish Tax Collector’s Office or Assessor’s Office for guidance. Protect the investment, and don’t let a preventable oversight cause the loss of property.
The Joint Transportation, Highways, & Public Works Committee will conduct a legislative public hearing on Tuesday, Dec. 2, at 8:30am The purpose of the hearing – commonly referred to as the annual DOTD Road Show – is to review the highway construction priorities for the fiscal year 2026-2027.
Location:
Government Plaza Shreveport City Council Chambers 505 Travis Street Shreveport, LA 71101
District 04 (Bossier, Bienville, Caddo, Claiborne, DeSoto, Red River, & Webster Parishes)
Each DOTD District will be hosting its own Road Show to allow legislators, other elected officials, DOTD representatives and the general public to discuss and obtain information about construction projects in the preliminary FY 2026-2027 Highway Priority Program and how those projects will affect each area of the state.
All those interested are invited to attend the Road Show and will be afforded an opportunity to express their views.
Oral testimony may be supplemented by presenting important facts and documentation in writing. Written statements and comments should be handed to the committee conducting the hearing, or mailed to the following address, postmarked within 45 calendar days following the hearing:
Joint Transportation, Highways, & Public Works Committee C/O LA DOTD (Section 45) P.O. Box 94245 Baton Rouge, LA 70804-9245
To read more information about planned construction projects for District 04 in the preliminary FY 26-27 Highway Priority Program, go online to bit.ly/4riSbGw.
DCFS Rebecca Harris recently released an update on the Child Safety Response Center.
“I want to be transparent about the steps we are taking to strengthen the operations of our Child Safety Response Center,” said Ms. Harris. “This Center is where urgent and life-threatening reports come in, and both phone calls and online reports must be handled quickly. Our children cannot wait, and neither can the people trying to protect them.”
“Our job is to protect children. That requires urgency, accountability, and a call center that is responsive and reliable.”
DCFS has not directed staff to prioritize one reporting method over another. Instead, they have set a clear expectation that the Center must actively manage both by moving staff between call-taking and online reports based on real-time needs to prevent delays.
At this time, there is no backlog of online reports and no wait time to speak with an agent.
These efforts are part of their broader plan to modernize and stabilize child safety operations, which includes adding a second shift, improving management oversight, and increasing frontline staffing.
Staff working overtime to make sure this critical child safety work is completed receive compensatory time, a standard and lawful state practice.
“I want to publicly thank the many hotline professionals who continue to take calls, process reports, and support their colleagues,” said Ms. Harris. “Their commitment reflects the mission of this department.”
The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) Enforcement Division is looking for interested candidates for their next Enforcement Academy, which is slated to start at the end of March in 2026.
The application period for the 38th LDWF Enforcement Academy is scheduled to be open from Dec. 1 to Dec. 22. This Enforcement Academy will be a Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) hybrid academy class meaning that both POST certified and non-POST certified candidates can apply once the application period is open.
“We want to get the word out quickly so interested applicants can prepare before the application process opens on Dec. 1. If you still need to take the civil service test, now is the time to do it,” said Col. Stephen Clark, head of the LDWF Enforcement Division. “By moving to a hybrid academy, we’re opening the door to more applicants and encourage all qualified candidates to apply.“
For applicants that are not exempt from taking the Protective Services Exam (PSE) Series 2100 Exam, a PSE 2100 score of 77 or higher is required to be eligible for the next academy. A PSE 2100 score of 77 or higher is valid for two years. In order to schedule the PSE 2100 civil service exam, please visit https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/louisiana/jobs/3147666/2100-protective-services-exam-pse.
This hybrid Enforcement Academy will conduct the conservation law portion of the training at the beginning of the academy for all the cadets, followed by the POST training at the end of the academy for the non-POST certified cadets. The POST certified cadets will finish their cadet academy training in approximately 14 weeks and non-POST certified cadets will finish their cadet academy training in approximately 22-24 weeks.
When the job application opens, applicants can search for the job title “Wildlife Enforcement Cadet” on the Louisiana Civil Service website at www.civilservice.louisiana.gov.
Minimum qualifications for this LDWF Enforcement Academy include:
Two years of law enforcement experience as a POST certified peace officer commissioned with the power of arrest; or
An associate’s degree from a technical college or completion of a two-year program at a vocational or technical school; or
Three years of continuous active military service (all Military Occupational Specialties apply).
Experience substitution: Every 30-semester hours earned from an accredited college or university will substitute for one year of the required experience.
Once the academy begins, the cadets will train at the department’s training facility located at the Waddill Training and Emergency Response Complex in Baton Rouge. Successful completion of intensive physical and academic training is required to graduate.
At the academy, cadets train to enforce the state’s recreational boating laws, the state and federal wildlife and fisheries laws, and general law enforcement work on the state’s many wildlife management areas.
The Bienville Parish School Board has received its 2025 School Performance Score. BPSB received a 84.9, a B score, for its schools. This score represents 1.8+ growth for the district. Congratulations to BPSB for its improvement and striving for excellence in education.
Castor High School’s Tiger Cross Country team brought home another top ten team finish with the boys’ team finishing the Division V State Meet in 9th place. Senior Hayden Carmouche paced the Tigers by bringing home a top 30 finish in the final race of his Tiger Cross Country career. Congratulations to Tiger Cross Country.
GCHS Bulldogs take 1st place at Lakeside Tournament. (Photo courtesy of GCHS)
The Gibsland-Coleman High School Bulldogs claimed 1st Place after a big 55–40 win over the Benton Tigers. The Bulldogs showed outstanding teamwork, energy, and determination from start to finish. Congratulations to them on their big win.
Lady Hornets secured 1st place at the Lakeside High Tournament. (Photo courtesy of AHS)
Arcadia High School celebrated the outstanding achievements of its athletes following the Lakeside High Tournament last week.
The Lady Hornets took 1st Place as Champions. They dominated the court and brought home FIRST PLACE with an incredible victory over Minden High School. Their hard work, teamwork, and determination truly shined.
The Mighty Hornets took 3rd Place in the tournament with a strong performance against the Ringgold Redskins. The Mighty Hornets showed excellent effort and hustle from start to finish.
Congratulations to both teams on their achievements.
Sports has been a huge part of my life, especially when it comes to baseball and football. I’ve always taken pride in the fact that I never used any form of performance-enhancing drugs to play at a high level. In my mind, this would be a form of cheating, and I made a conscious choice to never be a part of that culture of athletes.
I saw first-hand how some athletes abused and became victims of decisions and choices they made. It was a huge eye-opening experience my first spring training with the Montreal Expos organization as I saw how many players were using enhancers to perform at a high level.
I saw the organization basically turn a blind eye to what players were doing to become better. Oh, it was no secret, and most players did not try and hide what they were using as it was on full display in their lockers. It was just another form of cheating!
Cheating has now become rampant in the tournament bass fishing world. It seems that in every tournament, someone breaks a rule, fails a polygraph test and gets disqualified.
In the past three years, it has gotten worse — from professional anglers getting caught to amateur anglers trying to win specialty events like big bass tournaments. What happened to the days of anglers going out and fishing with honesty and following the rules?
Why has there been such a surge in anglers’ cheating? The first answer is probably the amount of money tournaments are putting up. Even the lower levels of MLF (Major League Fishing) and the B.A.S.S. organizations have anglers fishing for hundreds of thousands of dollars and opportunities to advance up the ladder of professional bass fishing.
Even big bass events have anglers fishing for over $100,000 for catching one fish! Like anything else, when there’s a lot of money on the line, it seems to bring out the worst in people. Just like in any form of criminal activity, just follow the money.
Some anglers will say that there are just too many rules. We all know that the more rules you have in any sport, the more that must be enforced. This makes a bass tournament director’s job even more difficult.
So how do we hit the reset button and get anglers to find their moral compass and follow the rules? I’m not sure we can put the genie back into the bottle, as our society in general has so many people with no morals who will do whatever they can in order to win or get ahead in life.
I think the first course of action must be making the punishment fit the crime. Organizations must come down harder on these individuals who think it’s OK to cheat! Guidelines need to be established for the severity of the rule or rules that have been violated.
We aren’t looking for anyone to go before the firing squad, but suspending anglers for the entire season would be a great start. The harder you come down on these anglers, the more they will think twice about cheating.
Maybe we need to go the legal route, as cheating in a bass tournament is considered fraud. By making a few examples with prosecution, it will probably make others think twice about bending the rules.
These are sad times we live in and it’s a shame we have so many anglers that think it’s OK to cheat. This is one of many reasons why tournament participation is down nationwide. But with more severe punishment, maybe we can reset the course of tournament bass fishing.
Mary Claire Kettler presenting on her new book. (Photo courtesy of Dorcheat-Bistineau Chapter)
Dorcheat-Bistineau Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution met on Nov. 3 at the Gibsland Library. This month’s speaker was Mary Claire Kettler, the chapter Historic Preservation Chair and a board member for the Mt. Lebanon Historical Society. She presented her new book, Born to Fly: The Story of Maj. Warren W. Sutton, which chronicles the life of a World War II pilot from Mt. Lebanon. Major Sutton enlisted in the Royal Canadian Air Force and later transferred to the U.S. Air Force. He completed 199 combat missions before being killed in action in 1944. He is interred at Arlington Cemetery, and a commemorative plaque honoring him is displayed on the west wall of Mt. Lebanon Baptist Church. Several of Major Sutton’s relatives attended the presentation as special guests.
After the presentation, members filled out Christmas cards for Military Missions, a nonprofit organization that sends cards and care packages to U.S. military deployed overseas. Chapter member Betty Sutton provided the cards for the project. The DAR filled out a total of 25 cards, each with a personal hand-written message.
Past Chapter Regent Cindy Madden and Past President of Galvez Chapter SAR Jerry Madden participated in a Veterans Day program at Central School on Nov. 10. The program celebrated the birthdays of the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marines. During the program, Jerry gave a presentation in Revolutionary War uniform. The Maddens also brought a birthday cake display for the program.
Chapter Regent Donna Sutton attended the annual Louisiana DAR Board of Management meeting on Saturday, Nov. 1 at the Bossier Library. The meeting was for state officers, regional directors, and chapter regents to gain current information about DAR from the State and National levels. After the meeting, the chapter regents delivered boxes of snacks to the local fire department and police station. The Dorcheat-Bistineau Chapter donated 2 large boxes of protein bars. Participants also visited the 9/11 Memorial in front of the police station for a short ceremony and prayer. The memorial, located about a block from the Bossier Library, features a large piece of steel recovered from one of the World Trade Center towers and is situated in a small garden with a waterfall. Donna shared pictures of the memorial with members during the chapter meeting.
DAR is a volunteer organization dedicated to education, patriotism, and historic preservation. Any woman age 18 years or older who can prove lineal, bloodline descent from an ancestor who aided in achieving American independence from Great Britain during the Revolutionary War (1775-1783) is eligible to join DAR. For more information, contact dorcheatbistineau@yahoo.com.
My friend bought her daughter a car. Not a fancy one—no heated seats, no moonroof, no button that launches it into orbit. Just a good ol’ reliable vehicle to get her from dorm room to dining room and back again for those sacred college holidays like Thanksgiving, when students return home to eat, sleep, and pretend they still remember how to do laundry.
One day, the daughter had a flat tire. No big deal—she had AAA on speed dial, right next to “Mom” and “Pizza.” She called the flat tire hotline and waited for the cavalry. The AAA guy showed up, popped the trunk, checked under the mat, looked in the glove box, maybe even peeked under the seats. No spare tire. No jack. No tools. Just a lot of empty space and one very confused roadside technician.
Cue the anguished phone call to Mom: “Mom! There’s no spare tire! I’m stranded! The car is broken! The dealership sold us a lemon! I’m going to die here next to the Chick-fil-A!”
Now, I know this mom. She’s articulate. She’s passionate. She’s fluent in “colorful metaphors.” I’ve heard her use her big girl words before, and let’s just say she doesn’t need a thesaurus when she’s fired up. She called the dealership and unleashed a verbal tsunami. Somewhere in the background, I imagine the receptionist ducking under the desk and whispering, “It’s her. The metaphor lady.”
Just as Mom was winding up for Round Two, the dealership guy calmly asked, “Ma’am, is your daughter’s car a 2023 model?”
“Yes,” she snapped.
“Well,” he said, “that car comes with run-flat tires. You can drive up to 50 miles on a flat. There’s no spare because you don’t need one.”
Silence.
Then a dial tone.
I don’t think Mom apologized. I think she just hung up and prayed the Holy Spirit would interpret her sighs.
Now, I’m grateful this wasn’t my story. But let’s be honest—I drive cars with spare tires. I think. I mean, I assume they’re in there somewhere. Probably under the mysterious carpet flap in the trunk next to the ancient granola bar and the rogue umbrella. Maybe I should check.
But this story made me laugh. It reminded me that sometimes we panic before we understand. We yell before we read the manual. We assume the worst before we remember that God might’ve already built in a solution.
And that brings me to Thanksgiving.It’s almost here. Can you believe how fast this year flew by? I blinked and it was Advent again. I’m thankful for so much—especially for you, dear reader. You’ve prayed for us, encouraged us, and shared stories that have become sermons, devotionals, and the occasional punchline.
I’m thankful for my church family, my neighbors, and the beautiful traffic chaos of life in Ruston, Louisiana. I’m thankful for the characters in my life—especially the ones who call me with flat tire emergencies and teach me new vocabulary.
So, this Thanksgiving, take a moment. Look at life through grateful eyes. Even the flat tires. Even the missing spares. Even the run-flat moments when you realize God’s grace lets you keep going, even when you feel deflated.
Thank you for being part of the ride. And if you’re wondering whether your car has a spare… maybe check before you call Mom.
The schedule of events celebrating Christmas in Gibsland has been shared. There will be several events over several weeks.
The public is encouraged to submit applications of choice (vendor/parade) as soon as possible, if interested. All applications can be picked up at the Gibsland City Hall or a request can be made via email at angel_k3@bellsouth.net.
The public is asked to light up their place of residence/business during this holiday season, particularly on the evening of Friday, Dec. 12. The public is also invited (in your private vehicles) to participate in the “Tour of the Towns” (Gibsland/Mt Lebanon and Ada/Taylor).
Residential judging will take place on Dec. 12 starting at 5:30pm. No one has to complete an application to participate. The out-of-town judges will enjoy hot cocoa and/or coffee as they relax and be mesmerized by the twinkling of the lights while they carefully make their selection of the top three residential winners and one business winner.
The schedule of events is as follows.
Thursday, 12/4 Christmas Tree Decorating – Pine Belt Head Start 9:30am – Pine Belt Head Start 1pm – GCHS (grades K – 5)
Sunday, 12/7 3pm – Community Tree Decorating – Gibsland Pavilion Area (bring ornaments)
Monday, 12/8 9-11am – Mayor’s Christmas Brunch, Gibsland City Hall
Tuesday, 12/9 6pm – Domino Tournament, Gibsland City Hall (registration required; call 318-286-3646)
Wednesday, 12/10 10am – 2pm – GBT Christmas Open House
In the summer of 2021, a new neighbor moved into what had been a peaceful mobile home park in Coon Rapids, Minnesota, a suburb just north of Minneapolis. Until then, the residents of the mobile home park held regular barbecues and other outdoor gatherings when the cold Minnesota weather allowed. Their kids played outside and walked to and from the bus stop without the slightest hint of hesitation. The trailer park residents got along well with each other. That all changed when the new neighbor moved in.
The new neighbor was a bully who victimized the residents of the mobile home park. The bully chased them, taunted them, and sometimes attacked them. The residents were unable to relax even when they were inside their own homes because the bully peaked through their windows and made sounds that they said became terrifying to them. One day, 41-year-old Rachael Gross was carrying her groceries from her car to her home when the bully dropped down from her roof and knocked her to the ground. During the struggle that followed, the bully ripped her jacket before Rachael was able to escape into her house. Her groceries lay scattered on her front lawn. The bully even followed Rachael to the nearby nursing home where she worked and to her favorite local restaurant. Each time, Rachael rushed inside to safety. The bully always stopped just shy of following her in. During another attack, Rachael slung water from her water bottle onto the bully. The shock from the water gave her just enough time to get inside before the bully ran back toward her. After numerous attacks, Rachael and her neighbors began to carry sticks, brooms, golf clubs, and baseball bats anytime they went outside. Rachael and her neighbors called the authorities on several occasions, but the bully continued to terrorize the neighborhood. Because Rachael was most often the target of the bully, her neighbors began to suspect that she was somehow helping him despite her emphatic denials.
Rachael felt trapped. She said, “I’m pretty stressed out and pretty anxious all the time. I can’t even have peace. I’m so exhausted. I hope this gets a solution and somebody comes to help so I don’t have to deal with this anymore, and so that we can all have a peaceful summer with our kids and our grandkids and actually have a barbecue and just relax.” Summer turned into fall and there was no relief from the bully. Parents had to walk their kids to and from the bust stop armed with a variety of weapons. The kids used their backpacks as shields. The neighborhood cancelled all of their usual outside activities including trick-or-treating at Halloween. For two years, the residents of the trailer park lived in fear of the bully. In the fall of 2023, reports of the bullying ended. Rumors persist that someone in the mobile home park murdered the bully. Perhaps they were all involved in the murder conspiracy. Some of the rumors go as far as to say that there is no evidence to be found because the residents ate the bully during a Thanksgiving celebration. The new neighbor which plagued that mobile home park was a wild turkey. Happy Thanksgiving!
British archaeologist Howard Carter knelt before a newly uncovered doorway deep in the Valley of the Kings on November 26, 1922. With trembling hands, he peered through a small hole, held up a candle, and saw what he would later describe as “wonderful things.”
Moments earlier, Carter and his team had broken the seal to the tomb of Pharaoh Tutankhamun — a 3,000-year-old resting place untouched by grave robbers. Inside were chariots, gilded shrines, jewelry, and the solid gold coffin of the boy king.
Carter’s discovery, funded by British nobleman Lord Carnarvon, became an international sensation. Newspapers worldwide splashed photographs of glittering treasures and mysterious hieroglyphs, sparking “Egyptomania” across the West.
Beyond the headlines, the find transformed archaeology. Tutankhamun’s tomb offered an unprecedented glimpse into Egypt’s 18th Dynasty, revealing burial rituals, art, and craftsmanship of extraordinary sophistication.
The work of cataloging and preserving the artifacts took a decade. Even today, much of Carter’s meticulous documentation guides modern Egyptologists.
November 26, 1922, remains a defining date in archaeological history — the day the modern world reconnected with one of antiquity’s most famous rulers, and when “wonderful things” reignited humanity’s fascination with ancient Egypt.
Bobby Coffey September 8, 1944 – November 24, 2025 Service: Saturday, November 29, 2025, 10am at Magnolia Baptist Church, Saline.
Essie Mae Richardson July 27, 1941 – November 24, 2025 Service: Sunday, November 30, 2025, 2pm at Valley Peace B.C., Cotton Valley.
Melba French February 20, 1941 – November 23, 2025 Service: Saturday, December 6, 2025, 2:30pm at Shiloh Baptist Church, Haynesville.
La’Kayvion Lavelle Gipson June 10, 2025 – November 23, 2025 Service: Monday, December 1, 2025, 2pm at Garden of Memory, Cullen.
Leon Willis Wafer June 23, 1938 – November 22, 2025 Service: Saturday, November 29, 2025, 11am at Memorial Funeral Home, Homer.
Bienville Parish Journal publishes paid obituaries – unlimited words and a photo, as well as unlimited access – $95. Contact your funeral provider or billvance.erg@gmail.com. (Notice of Deaths shown above are FREE of charge. You may email them to billvance.erg@gmail.com.)
On Wednesday, Bienville Parish became the first North Louisiana Parish, joining 10 others in La., to formally oppose Carbon Capture Sequestration (CCS). Responding to citizen concerns about the potential for Underground Injection to affect the Sparta Aquifer, the Bienville Parish Police Jury unanimously resolved to oppose CCS within its boundaries.
Caldwell Parish is another North La. Parish ‘on the map’: A CCS project there was listed among the 6 Priority projects in Governor Landry’s 45-day Moratorium (issued Oct. 15) halting Dept. of Conservation consideration of new CCS applications. That is allowing the Dept. to focus on 6 Priority projects for permitting, among the over 100 now planned.
Most of the Parishes now on record as opposing CCS are near projects in South and West La. The Parishes that have to date formally opposed Carbon Capture Sequestration are: Cameron, Vernon, Allen, Beauregard, Jeff Davis, Sabine, St. Helena, Livingston, St. John, Orleans, and Bienville.
Given the growing controversy over CCS, the U.S. Dept. of Energy has paused some projects and is reportedly now reviewing whether to continue the 45Q tax credits that spurred the CCS industry. This debate reached the home district of Congressman Mike Johnson, Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, on Oct. 28 when Mike Nichols, a District 4 candidate, spoke in Ringgold to local opponents of Brickyard Trucking, LLC’s Class 2 (Produced Water) Injection facility in Jamestown. Nichols is from Vernon Parish where a Priority CCS project is pending.
Brickyard Trucking, LLC’s permit was granted by the La. Dept. of Conservation on November 6. Local citizens are seeking support for an appeal of that decision. They are calling for an Environmental Impact Statement conducted to Federal standards, to assess Brickyard’s plan to inject oil and gas wastewater at Jamestown, in the recharge zone for the Sparta Aquifer.
Mike Kirkham of Jamestown spoke at yesterday’s Police Jury meeting: “As a cancer survivor, I feel a need to help ensure that this project doesn’t permanently poison the land and water that we cannot live without — even though many of us depend on the industry for our livelihoods.” Bienville Parish citizens have initiated a yard sign campaign to “Save Louisiana’s Aquifers” – promoting the re-direction of the Federal 45Q tax credit funding toward facilitation of alternatives to the underground injection of Produced Water. They see the large-scale Produced Water treatment industry already in place in Texas, where the Permian Basin has experienced massive blowouts as a result of large quantities of wastewater having injected over time.
The following arrests were made by local law enforcement officers.
11/09/25
Ija Gamble of Georgetown, SC, was arrested for Maximum Speed Limit (Interstate or Controlled Access Highway).
11/10/25
Rickey Moore of Ringgold was arrested for Enter/Remain After Being Forbidden – Immovable Structure (Misdemeanor) and Criminal Trespass -Immovable Structure (Misdemeanor).
11/12/25
Curtis Fields of Castor was arrested Enter/Remain After Being Forbidden – Immovable Structure (Misdemeanor).
Terry Hebert, Jr. of Labadieville was arrested for Prohibited Activities and Sanctions (Insurance Fraud); Criminal Conspiracy (Felony); and Arson with Intent to Defraud – Inhabited Dwelling (Felony).
Nathan Hammett of Jamestown was arrested for Residential Contract Fraud (Misdemeanor).
11/13/25
Douglas Cloud of Ringgold was arrested for Possession or Distribution of Drug Paraphernalia (Misdemeanor); Operating a Vehicle with Suspended License, Other Offenses; and Possession of Marijuana 14 Grams or Less (Misdemeanor).
Christopher Winters of Castor was arrested for DWI – 1st Offense (BAC .15 to .19 – Misdemeanor) and Turning Movements and Required Signals.
Taylor Crooks of Nevill was arrested for Simple Burglary of Inhabited Dwelling (Felony) and Unauthorized Use of a Movable (Felony).
11/14/25
Dustin Buswell of Coushatta was arrested for Fugitive.
11/15/25
Timothy Weaver of Coushatta was arrested for Driver Must Be Licensed and Possession or Distribution of Drug Paraphernalia (Misdemeanor).
Robert Castello of Coushatta was arrested for Possession of Methamphetamine Less Than 28 Grams (Felony) and Possession of Distribution of Drug Paraphernalia (Misdemeanor).
This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named 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.
In today’s saturated real estate market, your property listing can easily disappear into the digital noise. Between Zillow, Realtor.com, Facebook Marketplace, and countless other platforms, potential buyers are drowning in options—and your listing risks becoming just another scroll-by on someone’s smartphone.
That’s exactly why savvy landowners, homeowners, and real estate agents across Louisiana are turning to The Parish Journals of Louisiana to cut through the clutter and connect with serious, local buyers.
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Here’s what the big national platforms won’t tell you: the most qualified buyers for your Louisiana property are not browsing listings in New York or California. They are your neighbors. They are families already living in your parish who want to stay close to work, schools, and community. They are out-of-parish Louisianans looking to relocate within the state. They are local investors who understand the market and can close quickly.
The Parish Journals of Louisiana reaches these buyers where they already are—engaged with their local news, community updates, and regional happenings. When readers open their Parish Journal, they are not mindlessly scrolling; they are actively seeking information about their community. Your property listing becomes part of that trusted local conversation.
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But here’s something most people don’t realize when someone in Seattle is seriously considering a move to Natchitoches Parish, they don’t start by booking a flight. They start by reading the local news outlets. Long before they ever make a market visit, they are online learning about the community—reading about local government, schools, business developments, and yes, scanning property listings. They are trying to understand what life would be like in their potential new home.
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BY THE NUMBERS: 2024
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Arcadia’s Christmas Festival will take place on Saturday, Nov. 22, beginning at 4pm. The evening will feature the annual Christmas Parade and the Lighting of the Christmas Tree to kick off this magical season.
To ensure everyone enjoys a safe and festive experience, the parade – which begins at 5pm and begins at the Arcadia Events Center – will follow this route:
Turn right onto Outlet Mall Drive
Turn right onto Hazel Street
Continue straight and turn right onto Daniel Street
Turn left onto Maple Street
Turn left onto N. Railroad Avenue
Turn right back onto Hazel Street and cross the railroad tracks
Turn right toward Arcadia Town Hall, 1819 South Railroad Avenue
The parade will end at Arcadia Town Hall, followed immediately by the Lighting of the Christmas Tree.
The Arcadia/Bienville Parish Chamber of Commerce invites everyone to join them to celebrate Bonnie & Clyde RV & Trade Days under its new ownership with a ribbon-cutting.
The ceremony will take place on Friday, Nov. 21, at 9am at Bonnie and Clyde Trade Days/RV Park.
The Chamber welcomes the new owners and recognizes their commitment to continuing this long-standing Bienville Parish tradition. Bonnie and Clyde Trade Days brings visitors, vendors, and economic activity into the parish every month, and we’re proud to support its next chapter.
There’s no place quite like Ruston, LA for the holidays. With beautifully decorated downtown shops, streets lined with twinkling lights, and holiday cheer in the air, Ruston produces all those cozy feelings of being home for the holidays.
Ruston and Lincoln Parish offer a holiday season full of festive fun, making it the perfect time to make the drive and celebrate the holidays with your friends and family. From parades and performances to light displays and shopping events, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this holiday season.
Thursday, November 20, kick start the holiday season in the heart of Ruston. Holiday Open House & Kickoff to Christmas invites you to shop and stroll downtown’s special promotions, get your pictures with Santa, and see the downtown tree lighting.
While you’re around for Kickoff to Christmas, stroll Ruston’s quarterly Art Ramble happening 5:30pm-8:30pm. Local artists will be displaying and selling artwork and curated creations, perfect for finding your loved ones that one-of-a kind gift.
Thursday, December 4, Ruston’s Annual Christmas Parade will hit the streets. This parade fills Ruston with festive floats and plenty of Christmas cheer. Bring your blanket, grab a warm drink from a local coffee shop, and enjoy one of the merriest events of the season.
December 4-7, experience the timeless story of A Christmas Carol brought to life at the Dixie Center for the Arts. Ruston Community Theatre brings you Ebnezer Scrooge, the three Spirits of Christmas, and musical adaptations by Alan Menken and lyrics by Lynee Ahres.
Lincoln Lights Up the Pines is a Ruston holiday staple and a can’t miss event. Pack up the whole family and come experience Ruston’s only drive-thru Christmas light display at the beautiful Lincoln Parish Park happening December 4-6 and 11-13. Enjoy twinkling lights, holiday scenes, and festive decor all from the warmth of your vehicle as you take in the glow of the season.
December 5-7 is a big weekend in Ruston, LA and full of holiday adventures. You can shop Big Creek Trade Days on December 5-7, where you’ll find handmade jewelry, accessories, furniture, antiques, outdoor items, and more to help you knock out your holiday shopping list. December 6, visit the OWL Center for their Christmas on the Farm. This holiday event brings you pony rides, a petting zoo, a bouncy house, crafts, pictures with Santa, rock wall, zip line, games, and so much more. Also on December 6, you can visit downtown Choudrant for Christmas in the Village featuring a parade, bounce houses, cookies with Santa, a movie in the park, and more.
On December 12, the Dixie Center for the Arts presents A Christmas Blues. This benefit concert is full of holiday spirit and down-home blues bringing together some of the area’s most gifted musicians for an unforgettable night of music.
Downtown Ruston hosts the Christmas Cookie Crawl on December 14. Satisfy your sweet tooth this holiday season and sign up to get a delicious holiday cookie at each participating local business all while you shop the local, holiday deals and specials. While you’re in town, step into the holiday spirit with Holiday Tour of Homes, sponsored by Pine Hills Children’s Advocacy Center happening December 14. Tour beautifully decorated homes and gather festive inspiration for your own holiday decor.
Ruston has it all – late night shopping, downtown deals, cookie crawls, parades, live music, light displays, and of course, the annual holiday5K race. On December 18 the Ruston Rudolph 5k Race will take place at the Ruston Sports Complex. Grab your holiday running gear, strap on your Santa Claus hat, and get ready for the most festive race of the year.
End the holiday season on a high note. The Ruston Sports Complex brings you Christmas at the Complex on December 20. Spend a festive day with friends and family and enjoy cookies, hot chocolate, take your picture with Santa, watch a Christmas movie, and go ice skating.
This is just a quick look at the holiday adventures you can go on this year in Ruston, LA. Recurring events throughout December include artificial ice skating at the Ruston Sports Complex and the Ruston Farmers Market happening every Saturday – perfect for finding your holiday gifts and festive flavors all while enjoying some live music.
Come experience the holidays in Ruston, LA, where small town charm and big holiday spirit bring you back to those nostalgic feelings of Christmas when you were a kid.
