By Joice M. Dunn
Troy Brooks, candidate for Lincoln Parish Police Jury, held a Community Cookout Saturday on Martin Luther King, Jr., in Ruston. Using his moto: We Are Stronger, Better, Together, Brooks reached out to the area community and fellow candidates.
Brooks had something for everyone: Food, a Jumper for the young at heart, and great conversation. The DJ for the event was Greg Ludley of Grambling, playing old hits to keep the crowd happy and relaxed.
“The event wasn’t just for me and my campaign. I invited other candidates and it was open to the community to eat, socialize as well as discuss the issues,” explained Brooks.
Brooks said, “I’m leadership you can trust, Results you can see.” After talking about his priorities for district nine, he opened the mic to others.
Evelyn Lewis Cooper, a retired teacher, has put her hat in the ring as a School Board member for district 11. She let the group know that she was someone who would listen and could be trusted to get the job done.
Phillip Ellis said he was running for District Judge in Lincoln and Union Parishes because he loves the law and believes in the justice system. He also believes the communities deserve a court that protects public safety, applies the law fairly and consistently, respects the rights of victims and everyone who comes before it, and moves cases through the judicial system efficiently.
Mike Smith, City Court Judge candidate, believes his commitment and experience in the city court handling certain civil and criminal court cases has prepared him for the job.
Richard Bates, candidate for the Lincoln Parish School Board, made an appearance at the community gathering to let it be known that “Failure Is Not An Option” for him. Bates said his priorities are to support the teachers, safe schools, fiscal responsibility, community partnerships and student achievement.
“I’m not running for re-election this year, but my time will come for Police Jury next year,” explained Karen Ludley. She was only at the event to mix, mingle and support those in the race.
Although Bruce Hampton was unopposed in the election of District Judge, he made the time to attend the gathering to chat with friends and supporters.
LaTisha Fox, retired lieutenant colonel, also made an appearance for support of the candidates during the event.
The group was reminded that early voting will start on Tuesday, October 20 and end on Tuesday, October 27 from 8:30 a.m. until 6 p.m. (except Sunday, Oct. 25). Election Day is scheduled for Tuesday, November 3, from 6 a.m. until 8 p.m.