Courtesy of LA Tech University Communications

Louisiana Tech Research Institute (LTRI) recently recognized students receiving the National Security Fellowship with Air Force Global Strike Command (AFGSC).

The National Security Fellowship program is a collaborative effort between the Air Force Global Strike Command, Louisiana Tech Applied Research Corporation (LTARC), and the Cyber Innovation Center (CIC). This yearlong program allows fellows to use their skills in computer science, mathematics, and other fields to assist the Air Force in various efforts.

“Throughout the four-year history of this fellowship program, many participants have found rewarding positions as federal civil servants with the Air Force, Navy, and Army,” Warren Ward, LTRI chief of staff, said. “Additionally, several have been directly hired by defense contractors due to the experiences gained through the program.”

The program provides opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students across Northeast Louisiana as they learn the importance of the military and national security while working to grow the local economy. Current institutions involved in the program, along with Louisiana Tech, include Grambling State University (GSU) and Louisiana State University Shreveport (LSUS).

“Louisiana Tech, Grambling, and LSU Shreveport are integral to the success of this program,” Kevin Nolten, president of the Cyber Innovation Center, said. “Our fellows bring talents into Air Force Global Strike Command and their work will have a direct effect on airmen and our overall national security.”

Students will gain a commitment to innovation, collaboration, and strategic deterrence through their efforts by fostering a dynamic of problem-solving and resilience in the face of challenges. Along with guidance from the fellows’ AFGSC Project Champion,  Louisiana Tech faculty advisors provide additional guidance into technical issues that they may not have yet experienced in the academic environment.

“This program provides a lot of opportunities such as meeting new people and making connections that will be beneficial not only for current studies but also in the future,” Cordus Bailey IV, computer science major and National Security Fellowship participant, said. “As I earn my master’s degree, I am looking forward to progressing the projects we are working on to help push forward the Air Force Global Strike initiatives.”

“The collaboration between Louisiana Tech University and the Air Force Global Strike Command has provided our students with unparalleled real-world experience and fostered a powerful alliance of collaboration and knowledge transfer,” Dr. Sumeet Dua, executive vice president of research, said. “Our fellows and participating faculty have proven their ability to tackle complex challenges and deliver groundbreaking solutions that benefit national security.”

The following fellows were recognized during a signing ceremony on May 15, 2024, at Louisiana Tech University’s Dan Reneau Biomedical Engineering Building:

Louisiana Tech University undergraduate students:

Bryce Jarrell, Professional Aviation

Stephan Johnson, Computer Science

Rylie Malbrough, Cyber Engineering

Norman Pritchard, Mechanical Engineering

Kyle Stewart, Computer Science

Cory Strickland, Computer Science


Louisiana Tech University graduate students:

John Coughlin, PhD Engineering

Lindsay Gouedy, PhD Engineering

Cordus Bailey, Computer Science

Emily Johnson, Counseling and Clinical Psychology

Tyler Warzynak, Applied Physics

Grambling State University:

Jonathan Smith, Cloud Computing

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by Malcolm Butler

A total of eight college baseball programs will converge on the 318 this week as the 2024 Conference USA Championships get underway Wednesday at J.C. Love Field at Pat Patterson Park.

It’s a baseball junkies dream come true.

For the second time in four years, Louisiana Tech fans will have the best seats in the house — in this case the Love Shack — to watch up to 15 games over a five day stretch, culminating with Sunday’s winner-take-all title game.

Due to my softball responsibilities at Tech, I have not been able to see as many Bulldog baseball games in person as I would have liked. But thanks to technology, mostly ESPN+ and even at times the vocal talents of Dave Nitz and Teddy Allen, I’ve been able to watch or listen to the vast majority of them.

And as I wrote last week, I like the make-up of this Bulldog team. If Lane Burroughs’ boys play up to their capabilities, this Sunday at the Love Shack could be one big Bulldog Party. But only time will tell.

One thing I do know, the 2021 CUSA Championship that was hosted in Ruston will be hard to match in a lot of ways.

Tech fans will never forget elimination Saturday in 2021. The Bulldogs led by the bats of Hunter Wells, Parker Bates, Steele Netterville, Taylor Young, Manny Garcia and an arsenal of eventual major league arms had to find a way to beat their hated rivals in the Golden Eagles of Southern Miss … not once, but twice.

The two teams had already played nine times (that’s not a typo) that season, including four-game regular season series in both Hattiesburg and Ruston. They had also met on that Thursday of the CUSA Tournament, with USM coming away with the 4-1 win.

Now on a win-or-go-home Saturday for the Dogs, the magic of the rally train and the Love Shack was in full display before a sellout crowd of mostly Tech fans, although there was just enough of the gold and black to create a noise nuisance when the Golden Eagles would make a play.

In my 25 years of working in Tech Athletics and another 20 as a young Bulldog fan, I have had the enjoyment of experiencing some unbelievable moments.

I was on the sideline in the endzone for the Brian Stallworth to Sean Cangelosi TD pass that will never be forgotten. I was in attendance for Ryan Moats 256-yard, 4-TD performance to lead the Bulldogs, the real Bulldogs, to a 28-21 win over Fresno State’s puppies at Joe Aillet Stadium more than 20 years ago.

I’ve been at countless Lady Techster basketball wins. I think of Trina Frierson’s two free throws with less than two seconds to play to beat Vanderbilt in the 2000 NCAA Tournament second round game at the TAC. Or Amber Obaze’s half-court bank shot to beat Penn State in not-so-Happy Valley.

Speedy Smith’s putback to beat Iona at the Thomas Assembly in the NIT. Talk about a crowd and the thrill of victory. Or Gerrod Henderson’s three-pointer to down Vanderbilt in the NIT, once again at the TAC.

I was in Hawaii when Tech softball won four 1-run games in four straight days against Top 25 teams to capture the 2008 Western Athletic Conference title. I had a first hand front row seat to the 2022 team’s 5-run, two-out rally in the bottom of the seventh to defeat Southern Miss 8-7 on the final day of the regular season in route to a regular season league title.

And I could go on and on about moments that I experienced on a first-hand basis with my beloved alma mater.

But, on that Saturday in 2021 when the Diamond Dogs found a pair of movie-script ways to rip out the hearts of Southern Miss fans and defeat a very talented Golden Eagles team twice to stave off elimination is the most exhilarating, memorable moment during my Tech fandom.

Yes. It’s No. 1 on my list.

I was fortunate enough to be on the ESPN+ call with Lyn Rollins for both of the games that day. As a life-long Tech guy, staying unbiased was a challenge throughout the 11-10 and 6-5 victories. It was an emotional roller coaster for Bulldog fans in both games.

Trailing 8-0 midway through game No. 1, Tech put a 6-spt on the board in the bottom of the fifth and eventually came all the way back to lead 10-9 heading to the ninth. The Love Shack came back to life as “Pump It Up” blared through the stadium’s speakers.

However, the roller coaster ride became momentarily nauseous for the Tech faithful when USM led off the ninth with a solo home run to tie the score, ultimately forcing extra innings.

It was just part of the script that made the day so special.

In the bottom of the 10th with the game-winning run standing on second, “Nerves-of-Steele” Netterville drove a ball into the gap in right center to give the Bulldogs the win, staving off elimination.

That game alone would have made Bulldog baseball lore. Rallying from an 8-run deficit against the Dark Side to win in such dramatic fashion isn’t a game Tech fans would soon forget.

But it was just the opening act.

The Bulldogs and the Golden Eagles would face off again, just hours later. The winner would move to Sunday. The loser would lick their wounds and head home.

With both teams bull pens worn thin — Tech was playing its fifth game in four days — pitching was going to be the big question. Enter Greg Martinez.

Martinez and USM’s Ben Ethridge battled pitch for pitch deep into the ball game, until Manny Garcia’s solo shot in the bottom of the eighth gave the Bulldogs a 2-1 lead. Tech was three outs away from completing the doubleheader sweep and advancing.

But as Lee Corso says, not so fast my friend.

Southern Miss plated four runs in the top of the ninth to turn the tables. USM led 5-2. The Love Shack faithful sat in silent shock. Possible heartbreak. Talk about a tough ending for what could have been a day of days.

Now, USM was only three outs away from the win.

But these Bulldogs wouldn’t die. After Tech cut the deficit to 5-4 with two outs and the game-winning run standing on second, up to the plate stepped Phil Matulia.

Full count. Pitch delivered. It was like time stood still as the baseball sailed towards home plate.

As Matulia swung and the ball headed towards right center, fans from both teams held their breath. The ball fell. Two runs scored. Tech won 6-5.

The Bulldog faithful went into a frenzy. Tech’s dugout emptied. USM’s dugout looked on in disbelief.

It’s a day that Tech fans will talk about for decades to come.

So as we prepare for the start of the 2024 CUSA Championships on Wednesday, my question is can this year come close to matching the excitement from three years ago?

I like these Bulldogs chances. Tech has won six straight to end the year and is playing arguably its best baseball of the season.

But it’s ball. And anything can happen.

Starting Wednesday morning and running for the next five days, more memories will be made. Tech fans hope they are the type that have the Bulldogs dog-piling come Championship Sunday.

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Narcotics agents arrested a Ruston woman wanted on a warrant Tuesday after she said she was not going to jail and resisted arrest.

Officers from the Lincoln Parish Narcotics Enforcement Team spotted Tara M. Driskill, 32, who was wanted on an active Lincoln Parish arrest warrant. When Driskill was told of the warrant and that she was under arrest, she yelled she was not going to jail, balled up her fist, and snatched her arm away from the arresting officer.

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Driskill was told not to pull away, but she continued to back away and turned her to run. Driskill had to be subdued and suffered a laceration above her left eye and a chipped tooth, according to an arrest affidavit.

Ruston Ambulance Service was called to the scene. Meanwhile, the arresting officers rendered aid to stop the bleeding.

During a search of the vehicle, a glass smoking pipe used to smoke methamphetamine was found under the driver’s seat. Once Driskill was evaluated and released from the North Louisiana Medical Center emergency room, she was transported to the Lincoln Parish Detention Center.

According to the affidavit, a search at the detention center located a bag of nearly four grams of methamphetamine inside Driskill’s underwear. She was booked for possession of methamphetamine, introduction of contraband into a correctional facility, possession of drug paraphernalia, resisting an officer, and a warrant for theft of property valued less than $750.

Bail was set at $51,000.

This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named or shown in photographs or video as suspects in a criminal investigation, or arrested and charged with a crime, have not been convicted of any criminal offense and are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Courtesy of Staff Reports

Both of Lincoln Parish’s college baseball teams will begin play in their respective conference tournaments this week.

Louisiana Tech will enter the CUSA Championships as the No. 1 seed after the Bulldogs captured the regular season title with a three-game sweep against Liberty.  Grambling State will be the No. 2 seed from the Southwestern Athletic Conference’s West Division after defeating Southern in the only game of its series (the final two games were rained out).

Tech (41-15) will host the 2024 Conference USA Championships at JC Love Field at Pat Patterson Park starting Wednesday and running through Sunday. The Bulldogs will face No. 8 seed Middle Tennessee Wednesday at 4 p.m. in the double elimination tournament.

The 2024 CUSA Championship will be played at a member home site for the fourth consecutive season, and the 20^th time in league history. The Championship Game on Sunday at 1 p.m. will be nationally televised by CBS Sports Network, while all other games will be aired on ESPN+.

Grambling State (21-25) will travel to Atlanta to play in the double elimination format tournament at Russ Chandler Stadium. The Tigers open play Wednesday at 11 a.m. against No. 3 seed (East Division) Alabama State.

The SWAC Tournament culminates on Sunday with the championship game set for 12 p.m.

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The City of Ruston announces, weather permitting, that N. Farmerville St. between Durden Ave. and E. Mississippi Ave. will be closed to through traffic Tuesday from 10 p.m. to 3 a.m. This closure is necessary for changing out an electrical pole.

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

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Custom Curbing Website: CLICK HERE

___________________________________________________

Jan Grigsby is one happy client.

The longtime Ruston native recently hired Custom Curbing to add a concrete landscape border along her flower beds in both her front and back yards.

And Grigsby is happy she did.

“I saw it from one of my neighbor’s house, and I loved it,” said Grigsby. “It has defined my yard. I can’t tell you how many people have come by and said ‘Your yard looks so good.’ It has really defined my yard. I also got him to do my backyard. It has really made all the difference.”

Custom Curbing is owned by Aaron Cash and is based out of West Monroe. The company has been around for almost three decades and is making a splash in Lincoln Parish recently.

“Basically, we put really nice borders around flower beds,” said Cash. “The business was established in 1996 so we have been serving northeast Louisiana for almost 30 years. It’s like adding a beautiful frame around your landscape. Our longtime slogan is ‘Frame Your Landscaping.'”

Cash said much of the business comes from neighbors seeing the finished product at other neighbors’ houses. And based on Grigsby’s satisfaction, it’s understandable.

“I am so pleased,” said Grigsby. “When I go outside, I look at it and just smile. They did such a super job. So many people have said, ‘Oh, Jan. Your yard looks so much better.’ And Aaron and his guys were so pleasant to work with during the process.”

Interested individuals can learn more at http://www.TheCustomCurbing.com. A step-by-step list of the process involved can be found at http://www.TheCustomCurbing.com/process.

Cash said that at the end of the day, it’s all about the client being happy with the finished product.

“We typically stick with earth tones; tans, and browns, and greys and charcoals,” said Cash. “We want to use colors that will be in style for years to come. Typically, that is earth tones. I see what their needs are and give them my advice on what would look better and how to alleviate some problems such as beds washing out or the grass encroaching in the beds.

“We also remove lots of dangerous metal edging that has become rusty and jagged and replace it with our concrete border system. We figure out the best designs and go from there.”

According to Cash, a “typical” job costs between $1,200 and $1,500, but the price can vary depending on style/color of curb, amount of ground prep, drainage work, root work, travel distance, number of areas, etc.

A average job can be completed within a day.

For more information, individuals can call 318-598-YARD or click on the CONTACT link on the website.

This is a paid advertorial

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Do you have a summer camp coming up?

Sports? Art? Entertainment? Outdoor?

The Lincoln Parish Journal is the perfect platform to advertise your summer camp to our readers.

With more than 5,000 email subscribers, almost 9,000 Facebook followers and plenty of website consumers, the Lincoln Parish Journal provides a great outlet to alert parents about summer opportunities for their youngsters.

There are numerous inventory items that could provide the perfect platform to highlight your camp.

Just email LPJNewsLA@gmail.com for more information, including inventory and rates.

Let us help you as the summer approaches.

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On May 20, 1506, the Italian explorer Christopher Columbus dies in Valladolid, Spain. Columbus was the first European to explore the Americas since the Vikings set up colonies in Greenland and Newfoundland in the 10th century. He explored the West Indies, South America and Central America, but died a disappointed man, feeling he had been mistreated by his patron, King Ferdinand of Spain.

Columbus was likely born in Genoa, Italy, in 1451. Little is known of his early life, but he worked as a seaman and then a sailing entrepreneur. He became obsessed with the possibility of pioneering a western sea route to Cathay (China), India, and the fabled gold and spice islands of Asia. At the time, Europeans knew no direct sea route to southern Asia, and the route via Egypt and the Red Sea was closed to Europeans by the Ottoman Empire, as were many land routes.

Contrary to popular legend, educated Europeans of Columbus’ day did believe that the world was round, as argued by St. Isidore in the seventh century. However, Columbus, and most others, underestimated the world’s size, calculating that East Asia must lie approximately where North America sits on the globe (they did not yet know that the Pacific Ocean existed).

With only the Atlantic Ocean, he thought, lying between Europe and the riches of the East Indies, Columbus met with King John II of Portugal and tried to persuade him to back his “Enterprise of the Indies,” as he called his plan. He was rebuffed and went to Spain, where he was also rejected at least twice by King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella. However, after the Spanish conquest of the Moorish kingdom of Granada in January 1492, the Spanish monarchs, flush with victory, agreed to support his voyage.

On August 3, 1492, Columbus set sail from Palos, Spain, with three small ships, the Santa Maria, the Pinta, and the Nina. On October 12, the expedition sighted land, probably Watling Island in the Bahamas, and went ashore the same day, claiming it for Spain. Later that month, Columbus sighted Cuba, which he thought was mainland China, and in December the expedition landed on Hispaniola, which Columbus thought might be Japan. He established a small colony there with 39 of his men. The explorer returned to Spain with gold, spices, and “Indian” captives in March 1493, and was received with the highest honors by the Spanish court. He was given the title “admiral of the ocean sea,” and a second expedition was promptly organized.

Fitted out with a large fleet of 17 ships, with 1,500 colonists aboard, Columbus set out from Cadiz in September 1493 on his second voyage to the New World. Landfall was made in the Lesser Antilles in November. Returning to Hispaniola, he found the men he left there slaughtered by the natives, and he founded a second colony. Sailing on, he explored Puerto Rico, Jamaica and numerous smaller islands in the Caribbean. Columbus returned to Spain in June 1496 and was greeted less warmly, as the yield from the second voyage had fallen well short of its costs.

Isabella and Ferdinand, still greedy for the riches of the East, agreed to a smaller third voyage and instructed Columbus to find a strait to India. In May 1498, Columbus left Spain with six ships, three filled with colonists and three with provisions for the colony on Hispaniola. This time, he made landfall on Trinidad. He entered the Gulf of Paria in Venezuela and planted the Spanish flag on South America. By the scope of the Orinoco River in Venezuela, he realized he had stumbled upon another continent, which Columbus, a deeply religious man, decided after careful thought was the outer regions of the Garden of Eden.

Returning to Hispaniola, he found that conditions on the island had deteriorated under the rule of his brothers, Diego and Bartholomew. Columbus’ efforts to restore order were marked by brutality, and his rule came to be deeply resented by both the colonists and the native Taino chiefs. In 1500, Spanish chief justice Francisco de Bobadilla arrived at Hispaniola, sent by Isabella and Ferdinand to investigate complaints, and Columbus and his brother were sent back to Spain in chains.

He was immediately released upon his return, and Ferdinand and Isabella agreed to finance a fourth voyage in which he was to search for the earthly paradise and the realms of gold said to lie nearby. He was also to continue looking for a passage to India. In May 1502, Columbus left Cadiz on his fourth and final voyage to the New World. After returning to Hispaniola against his patron’s wishes, he explored the coast of Central America looking for a strait and for gold. Attempting to return to Hispaniola, his ships, in poor condition, had to be beached on Jamaica. Columbus and his men were marooned, but two of his captains succeed in canoeing the 450 miles to Hispaniola. Columbus was a castaway on Jamaica for a year before a rescue ship arrived.

In November 1504, Columbus returned to Spain. Queen Isabella, his chief patron, died less than three weeks later. Although Columbus enjoyed a substantial revenue from Hispaniola gold during the last years of his life, he repeatedly attempted (unsuccessfully) to gain an audience with King Ferdinand, whom he felt owed him further redress. Columbus died on May 20, 1506.

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Each Monday and Friday, the Lincoln Parish Journal will post a list of non-for-profit upcoming events happening in the parish. If you would like to add your event to this list or advertise your for-profit events, please email us at lpjnewsla@gmail.com. 

Monday, May 20
11:30 a.m.: Lunch on Us (Presbyterian Church, 212 North Bonner Street., Ruston) — everyone welcome
5:30 p.m.: Planning and Zoning meeting
6 p.m.: Toastmasters International meeting (Louisiana Center for the Blind, 101 South Trenton Street)

Tuesday, May 21
10 a.m.: Storytime at Lincoln Parish Library

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Wednesday, May 22
9 a.m./12:30 p.m./4 p.m./7:30 p.m. Conference USA baseball tournament
Entries due for the Peach Art Exhibit
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

Thursday, May 23
9 a.m./12:30 p.m./4 p.m./7:30 p.m. Conference USA baseball tournament
11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Kiwanis Club lunch and program (Trinity Methodist Church fellowship hall)

Friday, May 24
2 p.m./5:30 p.m. Conference USA baseball tournament
Entries due today for the Peach Baby Photo Contest
Noon: Out to lunch concert series (Heard Freighthouse Food Truck Park)

Saturday, May 25
9 a.m./12:30 p.m. Conference USA baseball tournament
9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Farmers Market
9:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.: Louisiana Tech graduation (Thomas Assembly Center)

Sunday, May 26
1 p.m. Conference USA baseball tournament Championship Game

Courtesy of LA Tech Athletic Communications

Louisiana Tech Interim Vice President for University Advancement Lisa Bradley and Vice President/Director of Athletics Ryan Ivey announced the addition of Wally Crittenden as the new Senior Associate AD for Championship Resources and Hannah Huenefeld taking over as the new Director of the Louisiana Tech Athletic Club (LTAC).

Crittenden comes to Ruston with 20 years of collegiate experience, most recently serving as the Senior Associate AD of External Affairs at Stephen F. Austin. Meanwhile, Huenefeld has been elevated to Director of LTAC after serving as Assistant Director of Championship Resources.

“I am excited to have both Wally and Hannah within our championship resources unit,” said Ivey. “Both are former student-athletes that have a strong knowledge of the resources needed for supporting championship programs. As we continue to develop and grow our resources, it is critically important that we look at every revenue generation vertical that is available to us, while at the same time, understanding and respecting our many supporters.

“We must find avenues for many people to support Louisiana Tech athletics and diversify our approach. I truly believe with Wally leading our championship resources, and Hannah’s leadership with LTAC, we will have opportunities to develop a robust championship resources unit and build upon the foundation that has been established.”

In Crittenden’s new role at Louisiana Tech, he will be charged with leading the Championship Resources department while soliciting major gifts and assisting with other revenue streams for the athletics department and its 16 athletic programs.

“It is a special opportunity to join Ryan’s team here at Louisiana Tech,” said Crittenden. “I appreciate the passion and support throughout this transition from President Henderson, Ryan Ivey, University Advancement and all of Bulldog Nation.

“It is a unique time in college athletics and I am excited to embrace the challenges ahead working alongside such talented and driven people at Tech.”

Crittenden has spent the last decade at SFA where he was instrumental in helping to increase self-generated revenues by $2 million and assisting in securing over $10 million in contributions to assist in operating budgets and with capital projects for basketball, soccer, baseball, and softball and recently helped steward a $5 million pledge toward a new indoor football facility.

In his role, he was also the University Licensing Program Director, serving as the point of contact for both CLC and retail licensees while being responsible for onboarding new vendors. Under his leadership, the university set new all-time highs in revenue royalty share on two separate occasions.

His other responsibilities included overseeing ticketing and fulfillment for both general public and premium spaces and was in charge of technical back-office development and front-facing website updates. Ticket-related revenue has more than doubled from its previous all-time highs under his watch.

Having also served on the administrative side in Nacogdoches both as Associate AD for Business Development and Revenue Generation and Assistant AD for Business Development in Ticketing, he was also the head coach of the SFA women’s soccer program for seven years.

During his time as head coach, he was a three-time Southland Conference Coach of the Year recipient while leading the Ladyjacks to an 81-47-10 overall record and three Southland Conference league championships. Before leading SFA, Crittenden was an assistant coach at Oklahoma, Nebraska, and Texas A&M.

He earned his bachelor’s degree in sport management from Florida International (2002) and a master’s degree in higher education administration from Nebraska (2010).

Huenefeld, a Ruston native, spent the past year as part of the championship resources team. In her role, her primary responsibility was to make calls for the athletics department to either renew donations or help up sale to bring in new donations.

“Louisiana Tech is such an amazing institution, and I am honored to be the Director of LTAC,” said Huenefeld. “I could not be more excited to serve the Louisiana Tech and Ruston community.”

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 BATON ROUGE, La. – More than 23,000 students across Louisiana read almost 81,000 books during the last year to select the winners of the 2023-2024 Louisiana Readers’ Choice Awards.

More students were able to cast votes this year with the addition of a category for kindergarten to second grade. In that category, 9,274 students read almost 31,000 books.

Since the program began 25 years ago, students have ready almost 1.5 million books and cast 460,000 votes.

“The Louisiana Readers’ Choice Awards program has always been a great way to get our young people to read,” said Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser. “I’m proud of our State Library staff for taking the initiative to increase participation by adding a category for our youngest readers.”

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“It’s always encouraging to see how many students take part in the Louisiana Readers’ Choice Awards voting process. I hope that means they’ve been busy with books, hopefully developing a lifelong love of reading,” said State Librarian Meg Placke. “This year’s nominated lists were varied in theme and genre, but the winning and honor titles showcase friendship, teamwork, and empathy.”

Winners are selected from booklists carefully chosen by committees of school and public librarians across the state. Many students cast their ballots on voting machines supplied by the Secretary of State’s Voter Outreach Division.

This 2023-2024 Louisiana Readers’ Choice winners and honor titles are:

Louisiana Young Readers’ Choice Kindergarten-Second Grade

Winner: Are You a Cheeseburger? (Katherine Tegen Books, HarperCollins)
written and illustrated by Monica Arnaldo 

Honor: Chez Bob (Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, Hachette Book Group)
written and illustrated by Bob Shea

 Louisiana Young Readers’ Choice Grades 3-5

 Winner: Allergic (Graphix, Scholastic)
written by Megan Wagner Lloyd, illustrated by Michelle Mee Nutter 

Honor: The Floating Field: How a Group of Thai Boys Built Their Own Soccer Field
(Millbrook Press, Lerner Publishing Group)
written by Scott Riley, illustrated by Nguyen Quang and Kim Lien

Louisiana Young Readers’ Choice Grades 6-8

 Winner: Starfish (Nancy Paulsen Books, Penguin Random House)
written by Lisa Fipps 

Honor: Deadman’s Castle (Margaret Ferguson Books, Holiday House)
written by Iain Lawrence

 Louisiana Teen Readers’ Choice Grades 9-12

Winner: Firekeeper’s Daughter (Henry Holt & Co. Books for Young Readers, Macmillan)
written by Angeline Boulley 

Honor: Any Sign of Life (Greenwillow Books, Harper Collins)
written by Rae Carson

An award ceremony for honored authors will be held during the Louisiana Book Festival on Saturday, November 2. For more information about the program, including previous winners, participation information, and additional resources such as bookmarks, posters, and study guides provided at no cost, please visit the Louisiana Readers’ Choice Awards website.

Doyce Ann Wilson Houck 
April 8, 1941 – May 15, 2024 
Visitation: Temple Baptist Church Sanctuary, Thursday, May 23, 2024, 12:30 pm – 2:00 pm 
Service: Temple Baptist Church Sanctuary, Thursday, May 23, 2024, 2:00 pm 
Cemetery: Harmony Chapel Cemetery, Thursday, May 23, 2024  

ReNalda T. Harland Osborne  
Thursday 10/24/1985 — Sunday 05/12/2024   
Family Gathering: Friday 05/24/2024 2:00pm  
Visitation: Friday 05/24/2024 3:00pm to 6:00pm at King’s Funeral Home  
Celebration of Life: Saturday 05/25/2024 12:00pm, Zion Traveler Baptist Church, 1201 Martin Luther King Drive, Ruston  
Interment: Saturday 05/25/2024 Following Service, Mt Mariah Cemetery, Chatham 

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by Malcolm Butler

Just call them Conference USA champions.

By virtue of their doubleheader sweep over Liberty in Lynchburg, Virginia, today, Louisiana Tech has secured no worse than a share of the 2024 Conference USA regular season baseball title.

It’s the first regular season conference title for the Bulldogs (41-15, 18-6) in over 30 years. Tech captured the Sun Belt title in its first year as a member of the league in 1992. The Bulldogs did win the 2021 West Division title.

Tech won game one today 12-8 in 11 innings before completing the three-game road sweep with a 10-1 win in the nightcap of the twin bill.

Lane Burroughs and the Bulldogs also secured the No. 1 seed in the upcoming CUSA Championships which will be hosted at J.C. Love Field at Pat Patterson Park starting next Wednesday.

“We do it the hard way,” said head coach Lane Burroughs. “I couldn’t be more proud. The first game was nuts. We knew coming into Western Kentucky last week that we had to win six in a row. We knew DBU would take care of business these last two weeks and they did. But we did it. We did it. It will be three championships in four years. That’s not too shabby.”

The Bulldogs could still share the regular season title with Dallas Baptist if the Patriots can defeat Middle Tennessee tomorrow in Murfreesboro. However, Tech owns the tiebreaker over DBU by virtue of its series win in Dallas earlier this year.

In game one of the day, Tech built an 8-2 lead in the eighth inning before Liberty scored four in the bottom of the eighth and two more in the bottom of the ninth to tie it. The Flames had an opportunity to win it in the bottom of the ninth but Ethan Bates induced a ground out to end the frame.

Tech scored our runs in the top of the 11th on a two-run double by Adarius Myers to deep centerfield and a two-run single by Kasten Furr to right centerfield.

“Our guys never gave in,” said Burroughs. “I am so proud to be the baseball coach at Louisiana Tech. I couldn’t be more proud of a group of young men. What a season. We came out smoking winning our first 12 and then hit a valley. But we got back on the mountain top and we are champions. People like to say Tech going to Tech, well Tech just Tech’d. We are champions.”

Myers had four hits and two RBI while Furr added three hits and three RBI and Jorge Corona had three hits and four RBI. Corona recorded a pair of two-run home runs, including an inside-the-park home run.

Luke Nichols was strong on the mound, striking out nine batters while allowing just two runs on five hits and three walks.

In the title clinching win in the nightcap, the Bulldogs scored three in the first to take an early lead and continued to add on as Liberty scored on a solo home run in the second inning for their only run of the contest.

Grant Hubka pitched a stellar 5.0 innings, allowing just one run on three hits while striking out seven batters to pick up the win. Turner Swistak tossed the final 4.0 scoreless innings in relief to pick up the save.

Corona continued his late-season tear with four hits and two RBI while Michael Ballard had two hits and three RBI.

Conference USA will release the bracket for the tournament on Saturday evening.

Tech will be playing to win its second CUSA Tournament title in the last three years after capturing the title in Hattiesburg in 2022.

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By Kyle Roberts

Ruston High did not need to look very far for its next head baseball coach.

On Friday afternoon, assistant coach Bryan Beck was tapped as the next skipper for the Bearcats, where he has been an assistant for the last several seasons.

“Our committee did an extensive search and interviewed several very good candidates,” Ruston High School principal Dan Gressett said. “At the end of the day we realized we had our guy already on staff. He knows our vision for Ruston High, has been a part of building what we’ve done in football, and is a Bearcat through and through. Coach Beck will do a great job and already has some ideas on assistants that will help him out. We are excited.”

Beck expressed his gratitude to Gressett and head football coach and athletics director Jerrod Baugh.

“I’m very excited to continue to serve at Ruston High,” Beck said. “It felt like that was what I was going to continue to do here. I’m very loyal to Baugh for giving me a shot seven years ago to serve kids. And that’s what I’ve always told him I would do in any capacity. Today, he gave me that opportunity to do that as the head baseball coach. I am very grateful to him and Gressett and everybody involved in that decision, because I knew there were some really good candidates and a lot of people who were worthy of the job. I’m just very humble and grateful to be able to serve our high school in this role.”

Beck has been an assistant on both baseball and football for Ruston High and was on staff with the 2022 and 2023 teams that played for state championships in football. He added that details will still be worked out, although his heart is to serve in both sports.

“I told them from the get-go that I promote multi-sports athletes; whatever we can do to promote the ultimate Ruston High School experience,” Beck said. “I do know my role will change in some way. Coach Baugh and I will have a discussion soon on what that will look like. But I still will remain involved in our football programs one way tor the other. Right now, we’re just trying to get everything lined up with all the kids as they’re trying to exit school next week. We want to make sure we’re all good to go.”

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Courtesy of LA Tech University Communications

What do a balloon drop, a candy bar, and photo ops have to do with engineering and science? For select members of the Louisiana Tech University College of Engineering and Science Class of 2020 onward, the answer to that question is simple: it’s where you start your career.

Last month, 100 academic superstars and their parents got a rousing Tech welcome as Champ, Tech XXII, and the Band of Pride joined College of Engineering and Science faculty, staff, and students to celebrate the newest class of engineering and science talent to join Louisiana Tech.

Amid the sugar rush and accolades, each attendee signed a certificate codifying their decision to enroll in one of the 13 engineering and science majors: biomedical engineering, chemical engineering, chemistry, civil engineering, computer science, construction engineering technology, cyber engineering, electrical engineering, industrial engineering, instrumentation and control systems engineering, math, mechanical engineering, and physics.

“This was a good opportunity for these students to experience the COES culture first-hand,” Dr. Heath Tims, associate dean of COES undergraduate studies, said. “Most of these students have been to campus for tours, but this gave them and their families a better look at what they will be part of here. They get to enjoy the kind of fanfare that is generally reserved for athletes. It’s our way of welcoming them to the Tech family and touting the high-level academic talent that our programs attract.”

“Our Undergraduate Studies Office under the leadership of Dr. Tims created Commitment Day for incoming students to begin to build those community bonds before they even enroll,” Dr. Collin Wick, dean of the College of Engineering and Science, said. “It’s a special experience for these COES students, and our team of faculty, staff, and students knock it out of the park every year. I’m excited that they got to be part of the dynamic spirit and innovative culture that define a Louisiana Tech Engineering and Science education.”

The Class of 2028 commits are listed below.

– Abigail Aguilar, Biomedical Engineering

– Landon Amidon, Industrial Engineering

– Catherine Anderson, Chemistry

– Joel Anthony, Mechanical Engineering

– Mateo Apodaca, Civil Engineering

– Katherine Austin, Chemical Engineering

– Nathan Berthelot, Mechanical Engineering

– Gabriel Boudreaux, Computer Science

– Michael Brame, Mechanical Engineering

– Skyler Brassette, Mechanical Engineering

– Addison Brauer, Civil Engineering

– Riley Bryan, Mechanical Engineering

– Douglas Carney, Mechanical Engineering

– Cage Carr, Mechanical Engineering

– Sierra Carter, Chemistry

– Patrick Chambers, Civil Engineering

– Nathan Chance, Mechanical Engineering

– Ziana Chandler, Mechanical Engineering

– Grace Clay, Mechanical Engineering

– Nicholas Collier, Mechanical Engineering

– Robert Collinsworth, Mechanical Engineering

– Anna Colvin, Mechanical Engineering

– William Conklin, Mechanical Engineering

– Connor Cook, Mechanical Engineering

– Alexander Cosky, Mechanical Engineering

– William Craddock, Chemical Engineering

– Katelyn Crain, Civil Engineering

– Jonah Dempsey, Civil Engineering

– Peyton Desoto, Biomedical Engineering

– Dawson Donnelly, Mechanical Engineering

– Camden Falls, Mechanical Engineering

– Sarah Felker, Civil Engineering

– Aaron Fore, Computer Science

– Olivia Frazer, Chemical Engineering

– William Garner, Cyber Engineering

– Patrick Garrett, Mechanical Engineering

– Christian Gates, Computer Science

– James Gray, Biomedical Engineering

– Isaac Gremillion, Cyber Engineering

– Jacob Guidry, Biomedical Engineering

– Joseph Gulledge, Cyber Engineering

– Cole Guth, Industrial Engineering

– Lauren Harmon, Civil Engineering

– Karson Henry, Mechanical Engineering

– Hunter Hicks, Computer Science

– Henry Hood, Electrical Engineering

– James Hoyt, Electrical Engineering

– Roland Johnson, Electrical Engineering

– Caleb Kelley, Chemical Engineering

– Hunter Kidwell, Mechanical Engineering

– Cameron Kostelak, Biomedical Engineering

– Michael Kravitz, Mechanical Engineering

– John Kravitz, Mechanical Engineering

– Lawson Lerille, Computer Science

– Aaron Leshe, Mechanical Engineering

– Brealyn Lindsey, Biomedical Engineering

– Kale Little, Mechanical Engineering

– Jesse Llewellyn, Cyber Engineering

– Quentin Maese, Computer Science

– Cole Magee, Mechanical Engineering

– Gabriel Majors, Electrical Engineering

– Anniston Manley, Industrial Engineering

– Whyt Mattei, Mechanical Engineering

– Brandon Mitchell, Chemical Engineering

– Janey Mueller, Industrial Engineering

– Jason Nall, Mechanical Engineering

– William Navarre, Computer Science

– Alex Orgeron, Computer Science

– Solomon Pace, Mechanical Engineering

– Jonathan Peeples, Mechanical Engineering

– Declan Pickenheim, Mechanical Engineering

– Trentin Plunk, Mechanical Engineering

– Coy Powell, Mechanical Engineering

– James Predtechenskis, Civil Engineering

– Gavin Robichaux, Cyber Engineering

– Joshua Robinson, Mathematics

– Anthony Roubique, Civil Engineering

– Jack Sherman, Mechanical Engineering

– Cheyenne Stevenson, Industrial Engineering

– Ellie Stone, Computer Science

– Drew Sylve, Cyber Engineering

– Kylie Tate, Computer Science

– Braxton Thibodeaux, Computer Science

– Jack Tomlin, Computer Science

– Paul Toups, Mechanical Engineering

– Casey Vermillion, Computer Science

– Canaan Viator, Mechanical Engineering

– Caden Vinson, Mechanical Engineering

– Nathaniel Vise, Physics

– Garrett Walker, Mechanical Engineering

– Daniel Wall, Construction Engineering Technology

– Tanner Walton, Mechanical Engineering

– Eli Williams, Computer Science

– Matthew Willis, Mechanical Engineering

– Joshua Woods, Electrical Engineering

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By Hanna Singh

Outstanding Ruston High School senior, Riley Green, was honored with the 2024 Taylor Ryan Young Memorial Scholarship at the RHS school band banquet.

This prestigious award recognized Green’s dedication to his position in the school band and passion for his community. Established by the Lincoln Rotary Club and Central Federal Credit Union, the scholarship pays tribute to a former colleague, Taylor Ryan Young, who served at both organizations before his passing.

Each year, the Taylor Ryan Young Memorial Scholarship is presented to a deserving member of the Ruston High School band who will be attending Louisiana Tech as Young did. This year, Green was selected in recognition of his dedication to his position as a percussionist in the school band.

“During my time in band, I’ve grown in ways I never could have imagined,” Green said. “Over time, I learned to be consistent and work hard at something I truly had a passion for while making lifelong friends along the way.”

The scholarship fund was established in 2022 following Young’s unexpected passing. Young, a valued Ruston Rotary Club member, an active church member and an employee at Centric Federal Credit Union, left a lasting impact on his community. The award was developed to honor Young’s memory, his love for music and his passion for his community.

Rotary Club President, Victoria Sullivan explained the process behind the selection of the scholarship recipient, emphasizing the intention to honor an individual whose commitments mirrored those of Young.

“Our club wanted to be able to honor Taylor and his legacy for many years to come,” Sullivan said. “We saw it best fit to give a scholarship in memory of Taylor annually to someone who had the same undeniable passion for music and the same servant’s heart that we witnessed in Taylor over the years with him.”

Green was awarded a $2,000 scholarship, jointly funded by the two organizations, to put toward his future education and music career. Green will attend Louisiana Tech University in the upcoming fall semester of 2024, pursuing a degree in mechanical engineering. Additionally, he has committed to continuing to play percussion at a collegiate level by signing with the LA Tech Band.

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Courtesy of LA Tech University Communications

Securing a top-five finish on a famous raceway isn’t the type of thing you’d expect to read on an engineer’s resume.

Yet, for Dawson Perkins and the rest of Louisiana Tech University’s Eco-Car team, this remarkable achievement at the 2024 Shell Eco-marathon Americas highlights engineering skills, leadership, and perseverance, setting them apart on the international stage.

The Shell Eco-marathon Americas is an international competition that inspires young engineers to get their hands dirty building more efficient cars in a fun and competitive atmosphere. Held this year at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the event showcased the pinnacle of automotive design and efficiency from teams across North America.

Celebrating over 14 years of innovation in environmentally friendly automotive engineering and sleek design, Louisiana Tech has been a constant presence at the Eco-marathon, netting multiple wins over its history before hitting a lull during the COVID era. This year, under Perkins’ leadership, the team returned to form, demonstrating exceptional teamwork and strategic acumen, by redesigning the car to get an impressive 350 miles per gallon (mpg).

Perkins, a member of the team since his freshman year, expressed his pride about their accomplishment.

“This car simply needed a little extra work to be what it deserved to be. We’re satisfied with what this car and its drivetrain achieved,” he said.

The Bulldogs’ formidable engineering prowess is evident in their competitive performance, with Penn State barely leading by a mere 7 mpg.

Dr. Heath Tims, associate dean of undergraduate studies for the College of Engineering and Science and team advisor, stated, “The car was very consistent and performed well, which is a direct reflection of the team and the work they put into building and preparing for this competition.”

If this year is any indication, there is still gas left in this team’s tank for future success. Stay updated and join the excitement by following the team on Instagram (@latechecocar).

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By Hanna Singh

Ruston High School Academy of Health Sciences introduced the new Certified Nursing Assistant graduates at their class of 2024 pinning ceremony.

On Tuesday, May 14 in the RHS auditorium, 33 students were pinned and received recognition for completing the program.

Course and clinical instructor, Brook St. John RN, made a few remarks before beginning the pinning ceremony. She noted that 26 out of the 33 students had already received their certification, with several of them already obtaining job offers. St. John acknowledged that every student she taught this year put in the effort to earn their pin through rigorous clinicals and testing.

Guest speaker Cassidy Barmore, LPN of the RHS alum class of 2019, addressed the students with encouraging words for the future.

“Working in health care is not easy, but it is so rewarding knowing that you as a caregiver have made a difference in the patient’s daily lives,” Barmore said. “I am so happy for each of you, and I wish you the best in your future. Always remember that they may forget your name, but they will never forget the way you made them feel.”

Two particularly dedicated students were named the Outstanding CNA Students of the year. St. John recognized the consistent efforts and positive attitudes of Za’Niya Gaines and Lainey Bowen.

The pinning ceremony concluded with applause and cheers from proud families, friends, and faculty. The RHS Academy of Health Sciences continues to build the next generation of healthcare professionals, inspiring students to pursue a career in nursing and make a difference in their communities.

The entire class is included below:

Brianna Alexander
Abagael Barmore
Lainey Bowen
Aliyah Clark
Kaylee Dotson
Paige Gregory
Jermeria Houston
La’Trinity Mardis
Rachel Osatoyinbo
Na’Javeya Scott
Shiraya Willis
Charlynn Amos
Jada Bass
Malasia Bradford
Z’Ricka Clemons
Za’Niya Gaines
Alay Henderson
Shelby Jackson
Leslie Martinez Flores
Credric Rhone Jr.
India Thompson
Markia Wills
LaPrecious Banks
Amorah Boston
Trinity Carr
Chloe deMattos
Paige Gipson
Tamyah Hendricks
Kimberly Landaverde
Emily Moore
Anginya Robinson
Manyia Williams
Kevinlynn Wright

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By Kyle Roberts

Rainy was how Ruston High’s spring season began this year, and rainy was how it ended Thursday night.

A water-logged matchup at Hoss Garrett Stadium between the Bearcats and the Gators of Captain Shreve ended with Ruston the victors 7-0 and gave head coach Jerrod Baugh a good look at what his team could look like next season as they look to defend the first state championship in 33 years.

With bad weather in the forecast, Ruston moved the start time for the first blocks of sets from 6 p.m. to 5 p.m. Originally, two blocks were planned for the night, but as the rain fell, the decision was made to go ahead and start the two 12-minute halves with a running clock.

“I thought it was productive,” Baugh said. “It’s good to get out and hit somebody else. We’ve been hitting on each other for nine days, and then you get out here and get somebody else, and they get their energy and adrenaline going. Everybody wants to talk a little trash and you know, it’s nothing wrong with getting amped up and all of that, but you just have to learn how to control that and move to the next snap. But that’s part of the learning experience. That’s why we like to go against somebody different at the end.”

Offensively, Ruston’s lone touchdown of the night was set up by a 40-yard run by senior running back Dylone Brooks, which led to senior running back Jordan Hayes’ 47-yard touchdown scamper with 5:31 to go in the first 12-minute half.

“I think it’s something we expect out of those guys,” Baugh said of his running back corps. “I was really pleased to see us hold onto the football with the wet ball tonight. I was really pleased with those guys.”

Ruston was without starting quarterback Josh Brantley, who re-aggravated his ankle earlier in the week on a quarterback sneak. Sophomore Sam Hartwell got the nod and made a few impressive throws in the rain behind a solid offensive line.

“I did think Sam did some good things,” Baugh said. “I thought the guys up front did some good things (When a starter is out), it’s a really great opportunity for your next quarterback to get in and let him handle all of those situations. I mean, the thing that I look at isn’t necessarily just this next year. You look at the long term effect that that will have on his playing career here. You can’t replace those snaps that Sam’s getting with this with the first group.”

The Bearcats have the tall task of replacing a defense that will have graduated Geordan Guidry, Ahmad Breaux, Jadon Mayfield and Nate Johnson, to name a few. However, Baugh added he was pleased with some of the up-and-comers such as junior linebacker Zander Hayes and junior defensive lineman Ra’Keem Potts and sophomore defensive lineman Ethan Russell played.

“I thought those guys got after it,” Baugh said. “We ended up taking the first group of linebackers out some and rotated in some other guys. They got some good quality snaps against the first group. You know, we lost some really big names on defense. And on the outside looking in, you might feel like that it’s fixing to be a big drop off. But production level-wise, I think those guys got after it and made some good plays against a big offensive line.”

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A Simsboro man was arrested Sunday following an investigation that he allegedly threatened his wife with a knife.

The Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s Department responded to a La. Highway 507 residence about 11:45 a.m. Sunday. Based on information from the victim, Ronnie Bernard Woodard, 59, was arrested.

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Woodard’s wife told deputies she and Woodard became involved in an argument after he came in the kitchen upset about something she had said. Woodard allegedly retrieved a knife from a drawer and held it to the woman’s throat. The alleged assault was witnessed by their daughter who was eating at the kitchen table.

Deputies located Woodard outside and questioned him about the incident. Woodard said he put the knife to his wife’s neck and warned her “not to talk about his mother.”

Woodard said he returned the knife to the drawer and left the kitchen.

In addition to the daughter, other minor children were present in the residence at the time of the incident.

Woodard was booked at the Lincoln Parish Detention Center for domestic abuse aggravated assault with child endangerment. His bail amount was not available.

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.

This is a paid advertorial

The Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s Office extends its gratitude to the incredible sponsors, donors, vendors, and other contributors of the 16th Annual Lincoln Parish Senior Expo, which took place on April 25, 2024.

Your support has been invaluable in ensuring that this year’s expo was the most successful to date. Additionally, a special thank you to all who joined us at the event. We are excited to welcome you back next year.

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It is cliché. 

A cartoon character will be in the middle of an ethical conundrum. The cartoonist will picture an angel on one shoulder and a demon on the other. Both are vying for attention and to direct the future behavior of the character. Have you felt that your bad side is trying to convince your good side to do something? We preachers talk about this matter as a paradox or as one author put it, “human polarity in Biblical perspective.” 

I had a preacher friend who described it as “people who are too bad to be good and too good to be bad.” The Apostle Paul wrote, “I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do. And if I do what I do not want to do, I agree that the law is good. As it is, it is no longer I myself who do it, but it is sin living in me. For I know that good itself does not dwell in me, that is, in my sinful nature. For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out. For I do not do the good I want to do, but the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing. Now if I do what I do not want to do, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it.” That is one of the super-saints of the church describing his inner struggle and he was an Apostle! 

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We all have struggles with good and bad behavior, with doing what is good and doing that which is wrong. You don’t have to ponder the great truth of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden; you simply need to tell a toddler not to do something and watch what happens next. The Bible portrays us as saints and sinners simultaneously. The good news is that Jesus loves sinners, and He also loves saints. You can’t lose with the radical grace of the cross. Are you getting this, Jesus loves you and there is nothing you can do to change that.

I have arrived at my point now. If you are struggling with good and bad, right and wrong, being a saint and a sinner, do you suppose that person who so aggravated you this morning might also be struggling? The truth is all people are incredibly broken and beautiful simultaneously. Out of our acknowledged brokenness grows our unique beauty. Are we seeing others as Jesus sees them? 

Are we treating others as Jesus would treat them? Remember that Jesus said, “As you did it to one of the least of these, you did it unto Me.”