Ruston High product K’Travion Hargrove led Grambling State with 61 yards and a touchdown on 12 carries during Saturday’s loss at Louisiana-Lafayette. (Photo courtesy of GSU Football)
By T. Scott Boatright
It was a tale of two halves for Grambling State Saturday night in the Tigers’ season opener against Louisiana-Lafayette at Cajun Field.
After finding themselves in a deep hole by halftime, the Tigers fared better in the second half before falling 40-10.
A 30-0 halftime deficit was simply too much for GSU to overcome even though the Tigers played the Ragin’ Cajuns to a 10-10 in the second half.
ULL scored on its first offensive possession, marching 82 yards to paydirt on eight plays that culminated with Dry’Lyn Washington’s eight-yard dash to the end zone 5:56 into the opening stanza.
The Ragin’ Cajuns took over in the second quarter, with quarterback Ben Woolridge firing two scoring strikes, a 13-yarder to Harvey Broussard and a 56-yarder to Tavion Smith.
Louisiana-Lafayette added a defensive score for its second touchdown of the second quarter as Caleb Kibodi picked off a pass thrown by GSU quarterback Myles Crawley and returned it 50 yards to paydirt.
ULL’s final score of the first half came on a 41-yard field by Kenneth Almendares that pushed the Cajuns to a 30-0 halftime advantage.
The Ragin’ Cajuns pushed their lead to 37-0 midway through the third quarter on a 10-yard touchdown pass from Woolridge to Terrance Carter.
Grambling’s lone touchdown came with 4:35 remaining in the third quarter as K’Travion “Bull” Hargrove powered his way to paydirt from one yard out.
Hargrove, a Ruston High School product, may have been the brightest spot of the day for the G-Men, rushing for 61 yards on 12 attempts.
The teams traded fourth-quarter field goals to cap off scoring, with ULL’s Tony Sterner making a 27-yarder before Grambling’s Reed Harradine blasted a 50-yarder through the uprights.
Crawley finished with 19 completions on 28 pass attempts for 166 yards.
Receiver Nicholas Howard was another offensive bright spot for the G-Men, leading Grambling with five catches for 68 yards.
Blake Davis was the defensive standout for the Tigers, leading GSU with eight tackles while adding an interception.
The Cajuns dominated in overall offense, totaling 481 yards total while Grambling only managed 241.
Heading into the game, GSU coach Mickey Joseph had one key of cutting down on penalties.
And Joseph saw his team get better in that category. After giving up 82 yards per game last season, against the Ragin’ Cajuns the Tigers were only penalized for 25 yards on six calls.
Next up for the Tigers will be the home opener as they play host to Tuskegee at 7 p.m. Saturday at Eddie G. Robinson Stadium.
MONROE, La. — Never discount the potential for crazy when Ruston and Neville line up on the gridiron, even in a scrimmage.
In a game that saw two defensive touchdowns in the first three minutes, an overturned fumble in the second half, and a kickoff return for a touchdown, it was quite a night for all of the onlookers at Malone Stadium at the 2024 Bayou Jamb.
But fans were given a real treat by Ruston High senior cornerback Aidan Anding, who registered two interceptions (one returned for a score) and a critical kickoff return in the second period to put Ruston back on top at the end of the wild night by a final score of 20-15.
“It was a pretty crazy night,” Ruston High head coach Jerrod Baugh said. “Whenever we get together with Neville, you don’t expect anything different than that. We made a lot of mistakes tonight, and we’ve got a lot of things we need to get corrected and we have a short time to do it before Friday night.”
Anding wasted no time putting Ruston on the scoreboard in under 60 seconds with a pick-six from 24 yards out. Anding timed the slant route perfectly and intercepted Tiger sophomore quarterback Parker Robinson and entered the end zone nearly untouched. Senior kicker Jack Elliott kicked a perfect point-after and gave Ruston a 7-0 lead with 11:12 to go in the first half.
His performance was made even more special after losing his grandfather a little over a week ago.
“I thought Aidan was great,” Baugh said. “He does everything we ask him to do, and we obviously ask him to do a lot of things. He wants to be that guy that does what he’s asked. Aidan had a really tough week — I was very proud for him.”
Ruston High’s defense then held Neville’s offense to a three-and-out on the ensuing drive, with Anding returning the punt 30 yards to set the Bearcat offense up inside the red zone for their first drive of the night. Senior running back Jordan Hayes, however, would cough the football up on the nine-yard line and Neville would capitalize with a scoop-and-score of 91 yards by Tiger defensive lineman Jayson Parker with 9:33 in the first to tie the game 7-7.
Ruston’s next drive would stall out with Bearcat senior quarterback Josh Brantley getting sacked for a loss of nine yards on 3rd and 9 after getting the ball back to the Neville side of the field. The Bearcat defense, however, would hold for another Neville three-and-out.
The Bearcats’ last drive of the first half began on the Neville 48-yard line, and Brantley started the series with a 20-yard gain up the near sideline. He would bookend the drive with rushes as he got in for the score on a quarterback sneak inside the one-yard line with 34 seconds to go in the first half, putting Ruston up 14-7 at halftime following another Elliott PAT.
A stingy Bearcat defense kept Neville from getting a first down in the entire first half.
The Bearcats received the ball to start the second half, but a busted sweep appeared to put the ball on the turf for Neville’s Jakobie Collins to return to the Bearcat five yard-line. After the Tigers lined up for the play, the officials overturned the call and gave the football back to Ruston. Neville head coach Mike Collins would be called for an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty two plays later to keep the drive going for the Bearcats. The Tiger defense would stop Ruston on 4th-and-2 to get the ball back with 8:34 to play.
Neville would finally get a first down on a 27-yard quarterback scramble by Robinson, but Anding would get his second interception of the night on the ensuing pass. The Tigers only tallied three first downs on the night.
Despite another long rush by Hayes, Ruston would give great field position back to Neville after a high snap over the punter’s head. Senior Zander Hayes for the Bearcats, however, would sack Robinson for an 11-yard loss and help Ruston’s defense get to a fourth down. Unfortunately for the Bearcats, Robinson would then find senior running back Jaylon Nichols on a wheel-route for a 25-yard touchdown pass.
Neville would then convert the two-point conversion on a pass to Nichols in the flats to take a 15-14 lead.
Following another unsportsmanlike conduct penalty on Neville, Anding would return the kickoff 72 yards to put Ruston back ahead 20-15, though the point-after hit off the right upright. It would be enough for the Bearcats to get the win.
“Our guys, you know, they just really scrapped,” Baugh said in conclusion. “They know how to win ballgames. We found a way tonight. Regardless of how many mistakes we made leading up to the end, we found a way to come out on top. And the best teams do that.”
Hayes would lead all rushers on the night with 77 total yards. Ruston High ended the night with 134 total rushing yards between Hayes, Brookes, Brantley and junior fullback Lander Smith.
Ruston opens the regular season Friday, Sept. 6, at 7 p.m. at home against Acadiana. The game will be broadcast on the Bearcat Nation Network and Q94.1.
Tonight at Joe Aillet Stadium, college football fans in north Louisiana will see the debut of the 2024 Louisiana Tech Bulldogs and Nicholls State Colonels.
Kickoff is set for 7 p.m.
Those same fans will also see the debut of Tech’s new video scoreboard complete with its state-of-the-art sound system.
It’s sure to be an entertaining night at The Joe.
Tech head coach Sonny Cumbie said he knows his Bulldogs are looking forward to kicking off the college football season.
“There is a lot of excitement,” said Cumbie. “Always with your first game there is excitement, but particularly with this group. We all sense, and we all feel that we have a lot to prove and to show who we are and what we have become as a football team.
“I think there will be a lot of energy. It’s just about playing with a high level of focus on what your job is and what your assignment is. Our guys are ready to go.”
The contest can be heard on the LA Tech Sports Network flagship station 107.5 FM with Malcolm Butler, Teddy Allen and Jerry Byrd providing the call of the game. Pregame begins at 5:30 p.m.
The two programs are coming off bipolar seasons with the Bulldogs posting a 3-9 mark last year while the Colonels won the Southland Conference title and earned a trip to the FCS playoffs.
“They are a really good football team that return a lot of players on offense and defense and special teams from a team that went to the FCS playoffs last year,” said Cumbie of the Colonels who return 19 starters.
Tech leads the all-time series 4-0 including a 48-13 win in the last meeting in 2009. In order for the Bulldogs to keep the unblemished mark against their south Louisiana foes intact, they will need to get production from some experienced newcomers.
The Bulldogs lost three of their top wide receivers from last year’s team with the graduation of Smoke Harris and the departure of Cyrus Allen to Texas A&M and Kyle Maxwell to Washington State. Despite these losses, Cumbie believes the Bulldogs will be fine at wide receiver.
“It’s really important to try to replace experienced players with experienced players when you can,” said Cumbie. “In this day and age of the transfer portal, that’s one of the things about it. We lost some guys who had played a lot of snaps, but we were able to also get some from the portal who have played a lot of football.
“We found a Jimmy Holiday from Western Kentucky. He was actually a guy I recruited out of high school when he went to Tennessee before going to Western Kentucky. He played a significant amount of football and made a lot of plays against us last year. He adds an element of top end speed which we lacked when Cyrus (Allen) left.
“Jay Wilkerson had to sit out last year in terms of transferring. No. 47. He is a guy that I think everyone is going to love watching him play. I think people will very quickly be asking who is going to be the next Jay Wilkerson because he is that type of football player. He loves the game.”
Red-shirt junior Jack Turner will get the start under center for the Bulldogs. Turner completed 84-of-148 passes for five TDs and five interceptions while seeing action in eight games last year.
The Bulldogs should get a boost in the running game this year with the return of a healthy Marquis Crosby. Tech’s leading rusher in 2022 managed just one carry in all of 2023, but is fully healthy heading into tonight’s opener.
Defensively, the Bulldogs hope for better days this year. The past two years, Tech has ranked among the bottom in numerous statistical categories which led to a change at the DC position during the off-season.
Enter new defensive coordinator Jeremiah Johnson, someone that Cumbie was familiar with and confident in from watching his teams over the past years.
“The league that Jeremiah coached in for a long time at Northern Iowa was a good one,” said Cumbie. “I was familiar with him because every year at TCU we would play Iowa State and Iowa State would play Northern Iowa almost ever year and a number of times beat Iowa State. So, I had an awareness of the type of program they had.
“I would start watching film and see what they did on defense and how multiple they were. They were really good against the run. They played in a conference that had North Dakota State and South Dakota State and some really good football teams in that conference, and they knew how to stop the run. And that’s something we needed.”
Tech lost its top four tacklers from a season ago, but does return some impact players including linebacker Zach Zimos, safety Michael Richard and cornerback Demarcus Griffin Taylor.
Gates to Joe Aillet Stadium will open at 5:30 p.m.
Grambling linebacker Josh Darling is pictured on an interception return during a preseason scrimmage. (Photo by T. Scott Boatright)
By T. Scott Boatright
The Mickey Joseph Era of Grambling State football begins today as the Tigers travel south to take on the University of Louisiana-Lafayette in the Herbert Heymann Classic.
Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. at Cajun Field.
It will be the second meeting between the Bayou State programs with Louisiana claiming a 49-17 victory in the 2018 season opener for both teams.
Grambling went 5-6 last season while the Ragin’ Cajuns are coming off a 6-7 campaign.
“We’re excited about this upcoming game against Lafayette,” Joseph said. “We are honored to play a good team that played in the postseason the past two years. (ULL coach) Mike Desormeaux) does a really good job with them and they’re like every other team in Louisiana — they’re full of Louisiana kids and Texas kids. They are a well-coached team and we’re excited for the opportunity.”
Joseph hopes that knowing about many Louisiana players will benefit his game plan.
“I do not think they have any film on us. They are going to have to pick and choose what they study. We understand what they want to do on offense — they are a 12-personnel team that wants to run the ball.
“They are a solid football team all around. Their receiving is really good, but the strength of that team is their offensive line.”
Joseph admits he does not know what to expect defensively from the Cajuns.
“They’ve brought in a new defensive coordinator, and we don’t know what they’re going to do, so we’ve got to be ready for anything,” Joseph said.
The Tigers return veteran quarterback Myles Crawley who was picked as the preseason SWAC Offensive Player of the Year and is on the Walter Payton Award preseason watch list.
Last season the redshirt-senior from Lithonia, Georgia, threw from 2,303 yards and 16 touchdowns while completing 60.1% of his passes (197-of-328).
Crawley was the first Grambling State quarterback to throw for at least 2,000 yards in a season since Devante Kincaid in 2017 and the first GSU QB to throw at least 16 touchdowns since Geremy Hickbottom in 2018.
Grambling has a key addition to its offensive backfield in redshirt senior K’Travion “Bull” Hargrove, a transfer from Memphis via Mississippi State.
Hargrove, who was a prep standout at Ruston High School, appeared in five games over two seasons at Mississippi, but recorded no offensive stats.
Last year at Memphis he totaled 11 carries for 43 yards and one touchdown, with an average of 3.9 yards per carry.
As a high school junior, Hargrove was the workhorse for Ruston. On 205 carries, the 5-11, 185 pounder ran for 1,537 yards and 20 touchdowns.
And with 17 catches out of the backfield, the four-star standout added 460 yards of real estate and reached the end zone six times.
Slowed by injuries as a high school senior, Hargrove still managed to record 97 carries, 793 yards and 11 rushing touchdowns.
Joseph believes the best is still to come for Hargrove.
“I like what Bull can do,” Joseph said. “I know what Bull can do.
“Bull is a kid that is going to run it 20-25 times a game. He is a great kid. He is a great human being and we are glad we’ve got him back home. He is going to be big for us on offense.”
Tony Forest will start at tight end for the G-Men.
The Tiger’s receiving corps will feature a number of fresh faces.
Sophomore Javon Robinson, who hauled in 30 receptions and one touchdown for 368 yards last season, is battling Jacoby Bellazar, a transfer from Mississippi State who had one catch for 11 yards last season, for the wide receiver-F position (the F is moved around the offense from slot receiver, to fullback, to even wide receiver).
Competing for GSU’s wide receiver-X position are redshirt junior Nick Howard and Julien Lewis, a graduate transfer from Louisiana Tech who recorded 20 catches for 230 yards as a Bulldog.
Battling for Grambling’s Z-wide receiver slot are redshirt juniors Jalen Johnson and Nae’Saan Dickerson, who recorded eight receptions for 111 yards for the G-Men last year, a transfer from McNeese State, had 29 catches for 299 yards as a Cowboy.
Defensively, Joseph is looking for a pair of returning linebackers, redshirt junior middle LB Andrew Jones and senior WLB Josh Darling to spearhead that side of the ball.
Darling totaled 30 tackles and an eight-yard sack last season while Johnson chalked up 15 tackles with an interception and a quarterback hurry.
“They’re really good players,” Joseph said about that duo. “They’re downhill players and really physical at the point of attack.”
Joseph said his Tigers will need to focus on all three phases of the game against the Ragin’ Cajuns.
“They’re Lafayette, so you know they’re going to run the ball and try to impose their will on you,” Joseph said. “We must come out and try to compete in all phases of the game. We are going to have to try to play error-free. We cannot have missed assignments because they will make you pay for those, and they will also make you play if you’re not physical.”
Joseph admits there will be a lot of evaluation going on in the season opener. And if he sees missed assignments and lack of physicality, Joseph said he will not hesitate to make changes.
“I’m a guy that puts you on a short leash,” Joseph said. “If you do not get it done, I will get you out of there right away before you hurt us.
“Our kids understand that, so we are looking to play multiple players because we have a lot of new faces in here. We want to see exactly what they can do. You do not know until you put them out there.”
MONROE, La. — Following the annual Byrd scrimmage last week in Shreveport, the Ruston High Bearcats will travel the opposite direction on I-20 Saturday night to take on the Neville Tigers in the penultimate 2024 Bayou Jamb matchup at Malone Stadium on the campus of the University of Louisiana-Monroe.
For Ruston High head coach Jerrod Baugh, it will be another opportunity for his team to get tuned up before the 2024 season officially kicks off on Friday, Sept. 6, at home against Acadiana.
“I’d like to see us get out there an be consistent with what we’re trying to get done,” Baugh said. “I think Neville’s going to be a good football team. Anytime we play, it’s a tight ball game.
“I want to see us get out there and get after it for the two halves that we’ve got. That would be a real plus for me — and to see us be consistent over a prolonged period of time.”
Ruston’s skill players had a great night against Byrd with both senior running backs Jordan Hayes and Dylone Brooks scoring multiple touchdowns. For Baugh, however, it felt erratic with lots of high energy in the beginning and near let-downs at the end.
“We’ve seen streaks of really good things and you think we’re turning the corner,” Baugh said. “It’s not day-to-day; it’s drill-to-drill. It’s a tough deal for high school kids to continue to keep focused and press the gas all the time to get things done — it’s tough for grown people, much less kids that have been at school and have a lot going on. But we’ve got to learn to do that, because that’s what it takes to win ballgames.”
The format for the scrimmage with Neville will be two 12-minute halves and the chance to see plenty of players on the field. Since the game will not count, Baugh said he believes it’s important for the players to get in as many situational sets as possible, such as two-minute drills.
Ruston High is not expecting to see senior Sam Nations or sophomore Ahmad Hudson on the field for the Bayou Jamb after being injured last week in the Byrd scrimmage.
Cason Floyd hands off to Trigger Woodard during Cedar Creek’s Bayou Jamb matchup against OCS Friday night at Malone Stadium. (Photo by Darrell James)
By Malcolm Butler
Sometimes growing pains hurt a little more than others.
For the second straight Friday night, Cedar Creek endured some discomfort as the Cougars fell 37-0 to Ouachita Christian at Malone Stadium as part of the Bayou Jamb.
Last week it was Lakeside, and this week it was one of the best programs in Class A in the Eagles.
OCS scored on six of seven offensive possessions thanks in large part to the running of Makin Lenard who totaled three scores on the ground. Numerous times the Cougars made early plays and forced the Eagles into third down and even a number of third and long, but time after time, OCS answered with a big play.
Despite the “loss”and despite the score, Cougars head coach William Parkerson did feel he saw some improvement.
“I know we gave up 37 points, but I thought our defense did some good things,” said Parkerson. “We would do good things two plays in a row and then we would miss a tackle or OCS would make a good play. But I did so a lot of growth defensively.”
One of the defensive stalwarts for Cedar Creek was junior Blake Robinson, who totaled five tackles, one sack, and two pass break ups for the Cougars. Robinson was named the Player of the Game for Creek. He was joined in the state column by James Myers with six tackles and Payton Harris with four stops.
“Blake is playing well,” said Parkerson. “James Myers is playing well. Bryce Martin is playing well. We just have to get everyone else up to their speed and just keep getting better. I told them afterwards, that I believe in y’all. I believe in this coaching staff. I believe in myself. It’s going to happen. We just have to come together and make it happen.”
While the defense did show signs of progress, the offense was stagnant for most of the night. Creek totaled just two first downs in the contest. The Cougars stayed on the ground the entire night as Parkerson tried to establish the run and pushed the hard-nosed style of play he has been preaching all off-season and into the fall.
“Offensively, it falls at my feet,” said Parkerson. “For whatever reason it is not translating to games right now and that is squarely on my back and nobody else’s. We just have to keep working and get better.”
The Cougars rushed 24 times for a total of six yards, while consistently trying to establish the dive up the middle.
“The whole offense is established on getting the B back going,” said Parkerson. “If we get the B back going then everything else we do off of it opens up. We have to establish it. We just have to get better, and that’s my fault.”
Following the completion of the game, Parkerson huddled with his senior class following the team huddle.
“I just told (the seniors) whatever we can do to have them physically and emotionally ready to play when it comes time to kickoff, I’m up for any ideas and their input on that,” said Parkerson.
The Cougars open the regular season Friday night at Delta Charter.
Lincoln Prep coach Glen Hall is pictured talking to his Panthers. (Photo by T. Scott Boatright)
By T. Scott Boatright
DELHI — It would seem that shutting down a Delta Charter offense that averaged 41.6 points per game last season would be a winning effort.
And it was for the Lincoln Preparatory School defense.
But unfortunately, the Panthers offense fared no better than the Storm’s as the teams played to a scoreless tie Friday at the Delhi Jamboree.
Making things more frustrating for Lincoln Prep coach Glen Hall was that it was not that his Panthers did not have scoring opportunities.
“We moved the ball and got into the red zone four times,” Hall said. “We were on the one-yard line with a chance to win it at the end. We were on the six-yard line.
“But every time we moved down there, we had some kind of snafu.”
Hall said mental miscues resulting in penalties were costly for his offense.
“We got down to the one-yard line, and my offensive backfield got confused, and before it was over they got a delay of game penalty,” Hall said. “That pushed me back to the six.
“Then we threw a lead route to the wide receiver, and he drops it. We are in the red zone and drop back trying to throw a little short pass and my quarterback does a blind scramble and loses 20. It was mishap after mishap. We would move the ball and get down there inside the 20. But once we got down there, we just could not score it.”
As expected, senior running D’Tarion Wright was the workhorse for the Panthers’ offense.
“He ran the ball hard and broke three for 20 or more,” Hall said. “He did a heckuva job running the ball. My linemen did not play as well as they normally play, but D’Tavion still moved the ball.”
Defensively, Hall said his Panthers dominated, allowing the Storm no deeper than the Lincoln Prep 25-yard line.
“Jacobi Jones, our tackle, really dominated both offensively and defensively,” Hall said. “He played well tonight and came into his own. He shut down their running backs and dominated their defensive line with his blocking.”
Hall said his offensive would be getting a heavy dose of red zone work in upcoming practices.
“I thought I had been doing that,” Hall said. “Maybe I have not done enough, so that is on me. I just have to do a better job of helping them get to the red zone and then put the ball in the end zone.”
Hall said there is one big takeaway the Panthers have from the jamboree heading into next Friday’s season opener at D’Arbonne Woods.
“They run the same offense that Delta Charter runs,” Hall said. “But that also means D’Arbonne Woods is going to see the things that worked on us, and they are going to try and take advantage of that.
“So, we’re going to see a lot of wing, a lot of speed sweeps and little counters on the inside.”
Louisiana Tech women’s basketball head coach Brooke Stoehr announced the addition of Caleb Livingston as Assistant Coach on Friday.
Livingston spent three seasons at Three Rivers College, where he helped guide the Raiders to a 79-12 record. Three Rivers won its first 28 games, including the Region 16 Championship, during his first season before falling in the NJCAA Tournament.
The Raiders would claim the Region 16 Championship again in 2023 on their way to the NJCAA Quarterfinals.
Prior to joining the staff at Three Rivers, Livingston was an assistant coach at Nettleton High School in Jonesboro, Ark., for four years. In those four years, the Lady Raiders won two conference championships and a state championship in 2020. Livingston helped send 12 players to the collegiate level, including six to the division one level. In his four years at Nettleton, the Lady Raiders had the second-most wins as a program in Arkansas.
Before Nettleton, Livingston was the head coach at Palestine-Wheatley HS in Palestine, Ark., for two seasons. He helped lead the program to their first regional tournament appearance in 15 years and had two players sign to play collegiately in his two seasons.
Livingston was also heavily involved in the travel basketball circuit. Livingston had over 80 student-athletes sign to play at the college level in eight years of coaching travel basketball. Of the 80-plus signees, 56 went on to play Division 1 basketball. Livingston coached three McDonald’s All-Americans in his tenure: Liz Dixon, Sasha Goforth, and Jersey Wolfenberger.
Livingston helped create the Woodz Elite girls’ travel program, which later transformed into Arkansas Select. He was awarded a deal on the Under Armour Association circuit, where he led his 2022 team to a 6th-place finish in the summer of 2021.
Livingston graduated from Williams Baptist University with a degree BA in Liberal Arts.
GAMEDAY INFORMATION Date | Saturday, Aug. 31 Time | 7 p.m. CT Location | Ruston, La. (Joe Aillet Stadium) TV |ESPN+ Stats |LATechSports.com/Stats Radio: LA Tech Sports Network | LA Tech Athletics app Game Sponsor: Origin Bank Promotions: Hometown Heroes, High School Band Day College of the Game: Applied & Natural Sciences
GAMEDAY TIMELINE Parking Lots/Tailgating Opens | 11 a.m. Baseball Ticket Booth Open | Noon – 2 p.m. Campus Bookstore Open | 1 – 6 p.m. Stadium Drive Opens | 2 p.m. Argent LTAC Tailgating | 4 – 6:30 p.m. Bulldog Village Bookstore Open | 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. Bulldog Walk of Pride | 4:45 p.m. Football Ticket Office Opens | 5 p.m. Shuttle Drop Off Begins/Ends | 5 p.m. / 8 p.m. Gates/Suites/DAC/Stadium Bookstore Opens | 5:30 p.m.
TICKETS Tickets:LATechSports.com/Tickets West side reserve seats ($36 adults and $20 kids) East side reserve seats ($25 adults and $20 kids) ***Kid prices are for those between the ages of 4-17; ages 3 and under get in FREE*** Hometown Heroes – Two FREE tickets for police, fire, and medical personnel (visit the West Side Ticket Booth at Joe Aillet Stadium) Student Tickets:LATechSports.com/StudentTickets This season, students are no longer required to request tickets for each football game. Tickets will now be added to your LA Tech Sports Account for every home game. You can access your account by downloading the LA Tech Athletics App and selecting the “Tickets and Parking” link in the navigation. You can also log into your account without the app by visiting LATechSports.com/StudentTickets. To sign in, use your @latech.edu email.
You will also still be able to purchase discounted tickets for any guests wanting to attend the game. To do that, you will use the LA Tech Athletics app and select the “Claim Your Student Ticket” option. You can also do this by visiting LATechSports.com/StudentTickets. Please note that you will need to be logged in to your student account to access this special offer.
Students are encouraged to add their tickets to their mobile wallet on your smart phone before the game. This will make entry much easier for you. All students are also encouraged to enter Gate 8 on the East Side and to sit in sections M, N, O, or P. If you need assistant on game day, a ticket office representative will be available to assist at the East Side ticket booth.
GIVEAWAYS Origin Bank mini footballs Origan Bank fans Bark Louder rally towels Face tattoos and stickers Game Day programs (chance to win)
VIDEO BOARD FEATURES Live stats Scores Replays Bayou Kubota flex cam Tech Me Out selfies Courtesy Auto Helmet shuffle Jim Taylor Ford wheel cam Hype videos
ENTERTAINMENT PREGAME Bulldog Village tailgating Bounce houses for kids in tailgating Navy Seal Foundation – parachuters Revamped team entrance with pyrotechnics and new bell location New Ruston fire bell location with special guest ringer HALFTIME High School Band Day Regal Blues, Band of Pride performance Fireworks show IN-GAME Johnny’s Pizza giveaway Cane’s Maniac for a Caniac Newk’s crispy toss Whataburger (24 points and the Kennel wins FREE Whataburger, on-field bullseye) Walk-Ons (on-field field goal try)
ACCESSIBLE SEATING Accessible seating is located in Sections B, I, and O. If available, accessible seating may be purchased in advance through the Athletics Ticket Office.
ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES Policies about alcohol are in place so that all guests can enjoy the event in a safe and comfortable environment. It is prohibited to bring alcoholic beverages into Joe Aillet Stadium. Violators will be subject to ejection and applicable legal action. Such ejections or denial of admission are not grounds for refunds. State law requires that all persons consuming alcohol be at least 21 years of age. Intoxicated or alcohol-impaired guests may be refused admission to Joe Aillet Stadium. Only two (2) alcoholic beverages per ID may be purchased at a time. Any alcoholic beverage bought in Joe Aillet Stadium must stay in the stadium. If you leave the stadium premises you will be asked to dispose of the alcoholic beverage.
ANIMALS Service dogs for guests with disabilities are permitted. All other animals are prohibited. All service animals (dogs) must remain under the control of the handler at all times. Emotional support animals are not allowed into Joe Aillet Stadium. Please see US Service Animals for more information.
ATM ATMs are located in the center of each concourse. Located behind section E in the west concourse and section O in the east concourse.
BAGS & BAG SEARCH Guests will be able to carry the following style and size bag, package, or container into the venue: Bags that are clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC and do not exceed 12″ x 6″ x 12.” (Official LA Tech team logo clear plastic tote bags will be available through LA Tech Barns and Noble Store) One-gallon clear plastic freezer bag (Ziploc bag or similar). Small clutch bags, no larger than 4.5″ x 6.5″, with or without a handle or strap can be taken into the venue with one of the clear plastic bags. An exception will be made for medically necessary items after proper inspection. Prohibited items include, but are not limited to purses larger than a clutch bag, coolers, briefcases, backpacks, fanny packs, cinch bags, non-approved seat cushions, and chairbacks*, luggage of any kind, computer bags, and camera bags or any bag larger than the permissible size. *Non-approved seat cushions and chairbacks include large traditional seat cushions that have pockets, zippers, compartments, or covers. Seat cushions and chair backs must be 18″ or less in width. Banners and pep signs are allowed provided they are hand-held of reasonable size, can be stored beneath the seat, and do not block the view of other patrons. Any banner or sign containing profanity or objectionable material will be confiscated.
BOTTLES It is permissible for guests to bring into Joe Aillet Stadium a clear empty plastic commercial bottle. Frozen bottles are prohibited. It is impermissible to bring any other type of beverage into the stadium. Plastic baby bottles are permitted into the stadium if the infant is with the guest but are subject to inspection by security upon entering.
CONCESSIONS The concession stands located on the concourse of Joe Aillet Stadium are available when stadium gates open 90 minutes before kickoff. No other food or drinks may be brought into the stadium.
Both East and West sides of Joe Aillet Stadium will have identical food and drink offerings. Below are some of the items along with prices offered at the concessions:
General Concessions Items & Prices: Cheeseburgers – $8 Hamburgers – $7 x – Cheese $1 x – Chili $1 Nachos – $5 Hotdog – $4 Drinks – $4 Water – $4 Souvenir Cup – $2 Popcorn- $4 Candy – $3 Peanuts – $3 Pickles – $2
All other non-Aramark vendors in Joe Aillet Stadium, such as Kona Ice, do not have items and prices available at this time.
CONDUCT/EJECTION Fans are encouraged to treat visitors, players, coaches, and officials with courtesy and respect. Abusive language or disorderly conduct is unacceptable and unwelcome in Joe Aillet Stadium and may result in ejection. Anyone who interferes with the game by coming onto the field or by throwing objects will be ejected and possibly arrested. LA Tech Athletics reserve the right to eject any patron whose behavior is against the policy, unruly or illegal. Event tickets will be forfeited without a refund. Revocation of season tickets or arrest is possible.
CONTAINERS, COOLERS AND MISTING FANS Cans, glass, bottles, ice chests, coolers, picnic baskets, and insulated beverage containers are prohibited in Joe Aillet Stadium. Personal misting fans are allowed only if they are empty of any fluid.
*Only permissible bottles to bring into the Stadium are clear empty plastic commercial bottles.” (see Bottles above)
DRONES Drones, model aircraft, or any other remote-controlled flying objects are not permitted or allowed to be operated inside Joe Aillet Stadium or the surrounding parking lots.
ELECTRONIC TICKET SCANNING All tickets will be electronically scanned to verify authenticity. Tickets that have been logged in upon entry cannot be reused by another guest. Patrons assume all risks for tickets purchased through sources other than the LA Tech Ticket Office.
EMERGENCY MEDICAL PROCEDURES Medical and safety personnel are assigned to the stadium. For assistance in any medical emergency, please notify the nearest usher, LA Tech Staff member, or Police Officer.
FIELD ACCESS Spectators are prohibited from entering the playing field before, or during the playing contest unless they are properly credentialed or accompanied by an authorized staff member. Violators are subject to arrest.
GATES Gates open 90 minutes before kickoff. Fans are encouraged to enter the stadium as early as possible. All people ages 4 and older must present a ticket to enter Joe Aillet Stadium.
LOST AND FOUND Lost and found is located at the ticket office on either side of Joe Aillet Stadium. Lost items should be turned in and can be claimed in the two locations. Following games, items will be taken to the Tech Athletics Facilities Office located in the Thomas Assembly Center. To claim items after a game, contact the Athletics Internal Operations office at 318.257.5223.
LOST CHILDREN Parents should report a missing child to a police officer. Lost children will be escorted to the nearest ticket booth on either the east or west sides of Joe Aillet Stadium.
MERCHANDISE Officially licensed LA Tech merchandise is available for purchase at the LA Tech Barnes and Noble store location on the concourse. No other merchandise may be sold on the grounds of the LA Tech Sports Complex. Guests approached by someone selling merchandise are asked to report the person and location to a parking attendant, event staff, or police. No other merchandise may be sold on the grounds of the LA Tech Sports Complex. Guests approached by someone selling merchandise are asked to report the person and location to a parking attendant, event staff, or police.
NO RE-ENTRY POLICY Once you are admitted (ticket scanned) into Joe Aillet Stadium, you may not exit the stadium and re-enter using the same ticket. If you have an emergency and must depart the stadium, stop by Gate 2 on the East Side or Gate 6 on the West side of Joe Aillet Stadium and request a medical pass–out ticket.
PARKING Stadium parking lots open @ 11 AM on Game Day. Stadium parking lots for the Game Days on October 10th and the October 22nd will open at TBD. Parking in stadium lots is reserved for members of the LTAC and requires a permit for entry, which must be displayed at all times. Parking Attendants will take your parking pass and tear off the stub at the bottom of the pass. Once the stub has been removed you cannot re-enter the parking lot. If the parking stub has been removed before entering the parking lots the vehicle will not be allowed entrance.
PHOTOGRAPHY Cameras are permitted in Joe Aillet Stadium for personal use only. Any commercial photography (large-lens with a stand or tripod) is prohibited. Video cameras are prohibited. In no instance should anyone take photographs to block aisle ways and/or seating areas or otherwise interfere with another fan’s enjoyment of the game.
PREMIUM SEATING Admission to stadium suites and club levels is restricted to those with suite tickets, or suite guest passes. For more information, contact the LA Tech Alumni Association at 318-738-7950.
PROHIBITED ITEMS & ACTIVITIES • Outside alcoholic beverages • Controlled substances • Cans, glass, bottles, ice chests, coolers, picnic baskets, and insulated beverage containers (see Containers and Coolers) • Large bags (see Bags and Bag Search) • Possession or use of firearms, explosives (including fireworks), or other weapons • Food and/or beverages (see Bottles/Cans) • Noisemakers (his includes banging cups, bottles, or cans on hard surfaces on seats) • Portable chairback seats exceeding 18″ in width • Large flags, flagpoles, and items obstructing sight lines • Large strollers • Live animals (except Guide and Service Dogs) • Resale of tickets (see Solicitation) • Throwing of any objects • Laser Pointers of any type • Banners, placards, and leaflets not pre-approved by the Athletics Department • Standing in aisles and behind seating areas/aisles on the concourse
PUBLIC ADDRESS ANNOUNCEMENTS Public Announcements will be paged over the public address system only in cases of emergency. Please direct any inquiries or questions to the nearest LA Tech Staff Member or Police Officer.
RESTROOMS Designated stadium restrooms open 90 minutes before kickoff. They can be found behind sections C & G in the West concourse and M & Q in the East concourse.
STROLLERS Strollers are permitted in Joe Aillet Stadium. Strollers must be collapsible and fit under seating areas or left at the owner’s risk in the back of a handicap bunker pending available space.
SMOKING Louisiana Tech University policy prohibits the smoking of cigarettes, cigars, pipes, or burning tobacco in any other form or device, as well as the use of electronic cigarettes, vaporizers, hookah or other water pipe devices, and all other related devices on university property, except inside personal vehicles.
SOLICITATION University policy prohibits the solicitation of any unauthorized item for sale, trade, or giveaway on the grounds of the LA Tech Sports Complex. This includes solicitation of charitable donations and game or event tickets. Violators of this policy will be asked to leave the stadium grounds and may be cited for trespassing.
TAILGATING Tailgating is a traditional part of LA Tech game-day activities. Guests are asked to comply with the following guidelines:
No objects (tables, chairs, grills, canopies, etc.) may be placed or encroach on the Access Lane.
Tailgating spaces encompass a total of 6 parking spaces and are lined and numbered. Personal items (tents, grills, chairs, etc.) should remain inside your designated space at all times.
Open wood fires and campfires are prohibited.
Long-toss games of football or Frisbee are prohibited.
Pop-up canopies should be taken down in windy conditions. Owners of pop-up canopies are responsible for any damage.
Overhead objects (flags, kites, balloons) must be properly secured.
Use of bicycles, skateboards, in-line skates, scooters, motorized scooters, and unauthorized golf carts is prohibited.
Lawful consumption of alcohol and cereal malt beverages in designated parking lots adjacent to the stadium is permitted. The sale of alcoholic beverages is prohibited. Underage drinking is unlawful and violators will be cited. Containers of a capacity over one gallon are not permitted. Persons may only bring in alcoholic beverages for personal consumption. LA Tech police will determine whether quantities are more than amounts for personal consumption. Consumption must take place from cups or containers – no glass.
All tailgating equipment (tents, trailers, etc.) must be removed from the tailgating lot no later than one (1) week following the season’s final home game. Items left beyond the one-week limit are subject to removal by LA Tech Athletics.
All RVs must be parked at least 3 hours before kickoff.
Failure to comply with tailgating policies could result in the revocation of your space at the discretion of LA Tech Athletics staff.
TICKETS INFORMATION General Information: All people ages 4 and older must present a ticket to enter Joe Aillet Stadium. Tickets may be purchased at the Joe Aillet Stadium ticket office near the main gate. The ticket office opens two hours before kickoff. Will Call/Player-Guest List: Pre-purchased tickets may be picked up at the Joe Aillet Stadium ticket office beginning four hours before kickoff. Only the person whose name is on the ticket order may pick up the tickets. A photo ID is required for all will-call orders. Lost/Misplaced Tickets: For lost or misplaced season tickets, the Athletics Ticket Office may re-issue tickets to the ticket holder of record only. A service fee is charged for each replacement ticket. For season tickets that have been lost in the mail or stolen, contact the Athletics Ticket Office at 318.257.3631 for replacement information.
TICKET OFFICE LOCATIONS Locations: The West Side Ticket Office and East Side Ticket Office at Joe Aillet Stadium will both open two hours before kickoff. The Thomas Assembly Center Ticket Office will NOT be open on game days.
UMBRELLA POLICY For the safety and consideration of all guests, umbrellas are prohibited in Joe Aillet Stadium. Umbrellas will not be checked and are the responsibility of the owner if left at the gates. Guests should bring appropriate rain gear in case of inclement weather.
WATER FOUNTAINS Water fountains are located throughout the west concourse of Joe Aillet Stadium. They can be found behind sections C and G. For All Games water stations will be placed throughout the east and west concourses of the stadium.
WEATHER In the event of any inclement weather, (tornado, lighting, heavy rain, etc.) all guests will be advised to seek shelter. Instructions will be delivered via the public address system and the stadium video board.
(This is one of our profiles on this year’s recipients selected by an anonymous committee out of an extensive list of nominees for the 2024 Lincoln Leader Award. The Lincoln Parish Journal thanks Mayor Ronny Walker and the Ruston-Lincoln Chamber of Commerce for their support of this award. We would like to thank Kevin Hawkins at HawkinsPhoto.com for the headshots).
Civic Volunteer Organizations: United Way – for several years, I have volunteered as a Pen Friend in the Read.Learn.Succeed program. The program pairs community volunteers with second grade students to help students practice their reading and writing skills. I also volunteer my time as the Treasurer and a member of the Friends of the Lincoln Library Board. The board helps fund library initiatives for the Lincoln Parish community and honor the library staff.
Professional Highlights: *In 2023, I became an AAP (Accredited ACH Professional) after passing an exam with a low pass rate. An AAP is a payments professional recognized for electronic payments expertise, especially in the field of Automated Clearing House (ACH) payments.
*I am a recent graduate of the 2024 Louisiana Banker’s Association Leadership School.
*Graduate of Leadership Lincoln – 2020
*I have provided several presentations over the years at local schools and hospital groups to teach our community about current financial fraud trends, identity theft, and ways to avoid scams. I recently presented at the Circle of Bienville Medical Center as it celebrated its first anniversary.
Lorie Hamlin, Executive Vice President, Chief Operations Officer, Chief Security Officer, Identity Theft Administrator at Century Next Bank, on Bri Wimley:
In her role as AVP, Electronic Banking, Bri leads her department employees by example. She is currently attending Year One of the Louisiana Banker’s Association’s Leadership School, a five month program consisting of course work geared towards their initiative to “Growing Our Next Generation of Leaders.” She will complete Year One’s class this month. She is also a graduate of the Lincoln Leadership program, which she attended from 2019 – 2020. She has proven to be an effective project manager, and has successfully implemented positive changes to our electronic banking services, proving to be a tremendous asset to our team. She has also helped lead various learning opportunities for members of our community, as well as volunteering her time by serving where needed. She is a delight to work with, and I appreciate her commitment to financial education and leadership training. She has been a blessing to me and it’s been rewarding to witness her personal and professional growth over the years!
Q&A with Bri Wimley:
What makes Lincoln Parish special?
I came to Ruston for Louisiana Tech. The university was close to home, but far enough for a sense of independence. I had plans to move away after graduating college, but I stayed for the town. I say I, but I mean we! My husband and I met in Ruston, and we couldn’t think of a better place to start a family and raise our little boy, Caden. Lincoln Parish is where I graduated college, started my family, found a career that I love, and met so many wonderful people. We even named our Catahoula Lincoln! Lincoln Parish is our home!
How do you see your role/place in making our parish such a wonderful place to call home?
To me, Lincoln Parish embodies the essence of community, where individuals genuinely look out for one another. The way I help take care of the community is education – knowledge is power! I am committed to engaging with local groups to raise awareness about financial fraud and preventive strategies. Additionally, I will continue to dedicate my extra time to volunteering with schools and children, helping them to reach their fullest potential. Lincoln Parish has supported me, and it is only the right thing to offer my support to other.
Who has played a role in your professional development and why?
Many individuals have significantly contributed to my professional development, including my husband, family, friends, and former colleagues. They have all provided me with valuable insights into leadership, dedication, and perseverance. The person who has impacted me the most professionally is Lorie Hamlin. Lorie is THE definition of a mentor. Her sleeves stay rolled up as she supports her staff, customers, and other groups in our community. Whether facing challenging times or celebrating successes, Lorie is always there to offer encouragement or congratulations. She has a knack for sensing greatness and potential in people, and she takes the time to coach and help that person reach their full potential. Thank you, Lorie!
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Bigger question. Are you ready to win $200 in cash … with the potential to make it $400 if you are perfect on the week (including predicting the No. 1 tiebreaker exactly right).
Starting this week, the Lincoln Parish Journal is proud to host the Karl Malone Toyota College Football Pick’em Contest presented by Northern Louisiana Medical Center and Johnson Physical Therapy.
If you live in the deep south, you know College Football is King!
Readers are eligible to participate and each week one lucky winner will go home with a $200 cash prize (maybe $400). Each week the winner will be the participant with the best record out of the predetermined 15 college football games (ties will be broken by two separate tiebreakers consisting of guessing the total points scored in two of our weekly contests).
The Karl Malone Toyota College Football Pick’em Contest presented by Northern Louisiana Medical Center and Johnson Physical Therapy will be conducted for 14 regular season weeks of the college season starting with this week’s games.
There is no entry fee, just like there is no cost to SUBSCRIBE to the Lincoln Parish Journal where it will come to your inbox every weekday morning at 6:55 a.m. It takes 20-30 seconds to sign up and not much longer than that to make your picks.
All contest decisions by LPJ management are final. Weekly winners will be notified Monday and will be requested to take a photo that will run in the following week’s LPJ.
Every participant will receive a FREE subscription to the Journal, if you’re not already signed up for the easily-navigated, convenient 6:55 a.m. daily e-mail. Enjoy it all, for FREE, and enter each week’s contest. You could collect $200 each week!
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Metro Narcotics of Ouachita Parish is investigating allegations of cookies from a specialty bakery were laced with marijuana.
Captain Doug Schmitz of Metro Narcotics said the unit received complaints about cookies from Crumbl Cookies on Constitution Drive in West Monroe. Some of the complaints included reports of cookies smelling of marijuana.
The allegations were posted on Facebook by a customer who has since removed the post.
The bakery, which has not commented on the matter, is temporarily closed.
Schmitz said investigators gathered materials to send to the crime lab for testing and that the investigation is continuing.
The Lincoln Parish Journal is providing our local schools with an opportunity to submit nuggets from what’s going on at their respective schools in order to get more information out on their students, faculty and staff. The information below comes directly from those schools. Any school wishing to provide content each week can email to flynnhl@warhawks.ulm.edu
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High Schools
Ruston High School
The Bearcat Football team will be taking on their long-time rival, the Neville Tigers, in this year’s Bayou Jamboree hosted at ULM’s Malone Stadium. Join us Saturday, August 31st at 6:00 pm for kickoff.
The gates of the Red Kingdom are opening next Friday night, September 6. Ruston High will kick off the season, playing against the Acadiana Rams at Hoss Garrett Stadium; kickoff will be at 7:00.
Our Bearcat Volleyball team will be taking on the Haughton Buccaneers in Ruston High’s newly renovated gym on Tuesday, September 3. Freshman will play at 4:00, JV at 5:00, and Varsity at 6:00. On Thursday, September 5, volleyball will play Airline at Airline High School; Freshman will play at 4:00, JV at 5:00, and Varsity at 6:00.
The teacher of the week is Ms. Philips. Ms. Philips has been teaching at Ruston High for five years now. Alongside teaching English II, she also coaches the Speech and Debate team. We thank Ms. Philips for all that she does for the Ruston High Bearcats!
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Elementary & Middle Schools
Choudrant Elementary
This year students at Choudrant Elementary will be introduced to STEM/CTE class. They will be given weekly design challenges to find their strengths and interests while learning about jobs that will lead them in the future.
Hillcrest Elementary
Our faculty and staff were welcomed back to school with a luncheon hosted by one of our Adopt-a-School partners, First Baptist Church in Ruston. This was a great time for everyone to reconnect after the summer break. Thank you First Baptist!
Over the last two weeks students returned for the 2024-2025 school year. Our first and second grade students are excited to be back to school and have demonstrated their enthusiasm for learning. Kindergarten students joined us last week and are quickly settling into school routines. We are thrilled to meet each new face and get to know our newest Hawks!
The Hillcrest PTC held its first meeting on Tuesday, August 28th. They are planning to assist with our upcoming Grandparents Dot Day next month. We are so thankful for our PTC!
Upcoming school wide events include the Fall Book Fair and Open House in September.
AE Phillips
Congratulations to the 2024 Volleyball Team:
8th Grade: Emerson Caraway, Ava Good, Molly Madden, Anna Kate Poe, Makaylan Walker
7th Grade: Faith Crawford, Cate Davison, Savannah Foster, AJ Johnson, Emma Sue Kavalir, Hallie Hogan, Lydia Nankya, Emma Powell
6th Grade: Nealy Clark, Kate Cramer
We have several boys who are playing football with IA Lewis and RJHS. We want to recognize those kiddos as well:
6th Graders playing on I.A. Lewis’ team: Landry Gibbons, Camden White, Levi McCulloch, Levi Newsom, Cooper Stoehr, Gipson Goodwin, Andrew Stinson, Dixon Allen, Drew Wade, Peyton Taylor, Brayden Mitchell
7th & 8th Graders playing on RJHS team: Kyle-Allen Burrell, Kade Cripps, Nolan Hogan, Elijah Roberson, Cooper Lee, Jett Jones, WIllie Williams
The following students earned a PERFECT score on the following 2024 Leap assessments in the spring:
Samuel Stone- 3rd ELA LEAP
Elizabeth Hunt- 3rd Math LEAP
Jack McGehee- 3rd Math LEAP
Collins Reigelman- 4th ELA LEAP
Lucas Chen- 5th Math LEAP
Eli Denton- 6th Math LEAP
Jude Faltin- 6th Math LEAP
Zoe Wang- 6th Math LEAP
Brady Berg- 7th Math LEAP
Maryam Wasiuddin- 7th Science LEAP
Congratulations to our Teachers of the Year for 2024:
Jada Walsworth, Elementary Teacher of the Year
Michelle Blount, Middle School Teacher of the Year
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A dedicated senior from Choudrant High School, Wade Watson, has earned a conditional acceptance to the United States Military Academy at West Point.
Watson met the initial requirements and had the opportunity to visit the prestigious academy in New York over the summer. Now, he is focused on completing the final steps to secure full acceptance into West Point or another military academy.
Watson isn’t the first in his family to be accepted into a military institution. He follows in the footsteps of his two older brothers: Eli, who attends the U.S. Naval Academy, and Owen, who is at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. Watson has long aspired to attend a military academy, a goal he attributes to the strong sense of service instilled by his family.
“My brothers were big role models for me growing up, but I think we all really learned from my parents about the importance of serving others,” Watson said. “One of my grandfathers graduated from the Virginia Military Institute and the other was in the United States Air Force.”
Being accepted into West Point is no small feat, requiring a strong GPA, high ACT scores, letters of recommendation, and significant academic and extracurricular involvement. Watson has demonstrated exceptional dedication to meet these rigorous standards. With an ACT score above 30 and a perfect GPA, he has excelled both in the classroom and in his community.
Watson served as an Eagle Scout, earning the OA Triple Crown from Scouting’s Honor Society. He also competes in cross country, plays baseball, and serves in various leadership roles, including student council and FBLA. Additionally, he has participated in EcoCar competitions and the Literary Rally.
Watson’s father, Kevin Watson, expressed immense pride in his son’s achievements and his commitment to this goal over the years.
“I couldn’t be prouder of what he has accomplished, his plans for the future, or the person he has become,” Kevin Watson said. “And I couldn’t be more thankful for all of the teachers, coaches, Scout Masters and the kids he has surrounded himself with. They all have had a tremendously positive and powerful impact on him.”
Over the summer, Watson had the opportunity to spend a week at West Point, immersing himself in the life of a cadet. During the visit, potential attendees experienced a mock day at the academy, where they were introduced to various drills and aspects of daily military life. Each student was issued a uniform to wear throughout the week, living as if they were already part of the academy. Watson’s days were filled with physical training and exploring different academic majors he might pursue.
“I really enjoyed the people I met there. They are what really made the experience so memorable,” Watson said. “I met people from all over the United States, all here to experience the same thing as me.”
The Lincoln Parish Community has worked hard to support Watson through his journey to attending a military institute. Choudrant High School Principal, Christopher Jones, acknowledged Watson’s success of being conditionally accepted into the academy and described his academic involvement over the years.
“We are all very proud of Wade,” Jones said. “Getting accepted into a military academy is an honor and it has been a collective effort from Wade, his parents, the teachers and coaches at Choudrant High School and the opportunities created by the Lincoln Parish School Board.”
Next on Watson’s agenda is completing the final requirements for full acceptance into West Point. He still needs to finish his application, secure a nomination from a congressman, and complete several other steps before the end of the school year. Watson is determined to attend West Point or another military academy after his graduation in May 2025 and will continue working toward this goal throughout his senior year.
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One of the largest and best known salsa companies in the world has its roots in north Louisiana.
The progeny of Claiborne Parish stock, born and raised in Lincoln Parish, and taught to be an entrepreneur in Ouachita, David Earl Pace found success with his Pace Picante Sauce, “the original picante.”
His parents, Amos Gideon “Gid” Pace and Effie Fomby Pace were the second generation of their respective families to live near Athens in Claiborne Parish. Gid engaged in a host of endeavors, from farming and timber to land speculation.
Tragedy befell many of the Pace children. The firstborn, Selwynne, lived only 24 days. His sister Camille, died at age eight. Their brother Amos Paul Pace lies entombed within the USS Arizona at Pearl Harbor, a victim of the Japanese attack on December 7, 1941. His widow, Connie Manning Pace, enlisted in the Navy and served as an aviation machinist’s mate.
The elder brother, James Ward Pace, died on a hunting trip in 1953. He drowned while trying to use a self-operated ferry and his jeep fell into a north Louisiana bayou.
Only David Earl (79) and Imogene (81) lived into their senior years.
Gid always seemed to look for something better for his family. After Selwynne and Camille died, the Pace family moved to Simsboro in Lincoln Parish sometime between 1910 and 1914 to try their fortunes. David, the future top dog of Pace Foods, and Amos were born there.
Sometime after 1920, the family moved on to Ouachita Parish. Gid first operated a produce and egg business in West Monroe. Gid moved into making syrup. Not just syrup but at least 13 varieties of syrup from Sunny Gold Corn & Cane Syrup that sold for 40 cents to Pace’s Grade “A,” the company’s most expensive at $1 each.
The company peddled its products across north Louisiana and delivered it to stores in Mississippi and southern Arkansas. Gid experienced a problem every entrepreneur envies—the company constantly outgrew its facilities. He moved his manufacturing plant several times to progressively larger buildings to meet demand.
David Earl learned the process of experimenting with recipes and developing new products. With the help of David and James, Gid opened his final location for the Pace Syrup Company about six miles west of West Monroe just off U.S. 80.
After working for the family syrup business, playing football at Tulane, and serving as a pilot in World War II, David settled down in San Antonio, Texas, the home of his wife Margaret. There he continued to improve an old family recipe for the perfect salsa.
Pace began his own food business of bottled syrups as well as jellies and jams. The products were made, packed, and shipped out of a small back room of a liquor store David and Margaret rented. Over time, he expanded the business to a variety of other condiments. In 1947 he decided the real “syrup of the Southwest” was a Mexican salsa or sauce.
Starting with a basic recipe, he experimented with different blends of ingredients. He tested the results on golf buddies before settling on one mix of jalapeños, onions and tomatoes. He named his creation “picante sauce,” after the Spanish for “piquant,” meaning “flavorful” or “spicy.”
It was truly the original picante sauce since no picante sauce existed before David Pace coined the term.
While continuing to sell some 58 assorted condiments, he continued modifying his picante sauce formula for the better part of a decade. As demand grew, Pace dropped the rest of the company’s lines and focused on the Picante sauce. Using a $150,000 loan from Margaret’s mother, the couple expanded and built their production facility in 1951.
Pace’s entrepreneurial spirit extended beyond salsa. He patented an executive chair in 1967 that could be opened flat for naps and created the Pace Chair Company.
A man who worked that hard needed an afternoon nap. He had come a long way since his 1914 birth in Simsboro.
Pace Foods remained a family-owned company until it was sold in 1994, a year after David’s death, to the Campbell Soup Company for $1 billion.
You read that right. One billion dollars.
Campbell changed little of the operation, retaining Pace’s 471 employees. The sauce is still made in Texas, now by 900 Campbell employees.
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David Earl PaceThe image of a jar of Pace Picante Sauce appears on David Earl Pace’s gravestone.
The Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s Department arrested a Choudrant man Tuesday after he allegedly committed identity theft.
Jurdon Thomas, 35, was arrested about 6:30 a.m. Aug. 27 after deputies investigated a complaint he used another person’s identity to apply for loans.
A woman told deputies that multiple loans had been applied for in her name by someone else. She checked the email associated with the loans and determined that her relative had applied for the loans using her name.
The woman said she did not give Thomas permission to apply for any loans in her name.
A second woman said Thomas sent money from her bank account to his credit card.
Deputies located Thomas on Ford Street in Choudrant. He stated he applied for the loans in his relative’s name without her permission but was going to pay her back. He said he had a job but needed the money. Thomas was arrested for three counts of identity theft and booked at the Lincoln Parish Detention Center.
Bail was set at $2,500.
This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named or shown in photographs or video as suspects in a criminal investigation, or arrested and charged with a crime, have not been convicted of any criminal offense and are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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The Circle, a program of the Northern Louisiana Medical Center, is hosting a Mardi Gras Anniversary Party on Sept. 5 at the Ruston Civic Center.
The event will take place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and entry fee is $5.
The Circle is our program for individuals age 50 or better who are interested in pursuing an active lifestyle, learning about health and wellness, and meeting others.
Their events and activities are designed to help you stay healthy, vibrant and active. They encourage participants to pursue the things you love, try new hobbies and interests, and meet new friends.
The Mardi Gras Anniversary Party will include activity booths, door prizes, entertainment provided by “Home Grown”, and lunch provided by L&L’s Catering.
Individuals can reserve their spot by calling 318-254-7515.
Ruston Police arrested a woman Tuesday after she was stopped for a traffic violation and was found to be wanted.
Diana L. Hampton, 37, of Ruston, was stopped at about 2 a.m. Aug. 27 for an expired temporary license tag.
Hampton said the vehicle was not hers and when asked for a driver’s license, she could not provide one. A records check showed an active warrant for failure to appear in Third District Court on a charge of improper supervision of a minor.
When the officer attempted to arrest Hampton, she walked away, and the officer had to grab her wrist to stop her. Hampton attempted to pull away and after a brief struggle, she was handcuffed.
Hampton complained of shoulder pain and was taken to the North Louisiana Medical Center for evaluation. Once cleared, she was taken to the Lincoln Parish Center where she was booked for improper display of a temporary license tag, no inspection sticker, resisting arrest, and the outstanding warrant.
Bail was set at $1,250.
This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named or shown in photographs or video as suspects in a criminal investigation, or arrested and charged with a crime, have not been convicted of any criminal offense and are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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Directors and officers from recently created Southern A’Chord Chorus are inviting others to join. Back row, from left: Candice Bassett, director; Lynette Murphy, assistant director for musical expression; Sallie Rose Hollis, assistant director for visual expression. Front row: Judy Sisson, secretary; Tina Allen, treasurer.
A new melody is rising in Ruston as Southern A’Chord, a women’s community a cappella chorus, announces its formation and invites area residents to a harmonious beginning.
The group will host a Welcome Night on Thursday, Sept. 12, at 6:30 p.m. in the fellowship hall of the Presbyterian Church of Ruston, 212 N. Bonner.
Chorus leaders say Southern A’Chord’s purpose is to bring music to the community and to provide a place for women to enjoy and grow their musical skills.
All women who have a love for singing are encouraged to attend the recruitment event. It will provide a chance to meet the director and fellow singers, discover more about the chorus’s mission and upcoming activities, and experience the delight of singing in a group.
“The group is more than just a chorus,” said Lynette Murphy, of Choudrant, assistant director for musical expression. “It’s a celebration of the joys of singing and the uplifting power of music. Singing is a journey of the soul that connects us to the deepest parts of ourselves and to each other.
“There’s something truly magical about coming together to create harmony,” explained Murphy, who also serves as chorus president. “Singing not only lifts the spirit but also promotes a sense of unity.”
The chorus Music Staff is led by Director Candice Bassett, of Grayson, who believes in the transformative power of music. “When we sing, we create a space where every voice matters. It’s not just about the notes on the page. It’s about the stories we tell and the community we build – a community where women can support each other, learn together and perform for the joy of our audiences.”
With a repertoire that spans pop, patriotic, gospel and holiday, Southern A’Chord offers a sound that resonates with diverse audiences. As a new non-profit organization, the chorus has a roster of 14 members from multiple parishes.
“We’re committed to helping our members find their voice and use it confidently,” Bassett said. “Our rehearsals are a place of discovery, where the art of a cappella singing – especially barbershop – can be embraced. We’re excited to build this sisterhood and share our love of music with Ruston and beyond.”
Regular rehearsals are held Thursdays from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the same location as the guest night. Visitors and singers from other groups are welcome any time.
Southern A’Chord is not yet affiliated with any other organizations but would like to partner with local arts and community groups to serve North Louisiana, its leaders say.One of the chorus goals is to do community service outreach.
Bassett has extensive a cappella chorus training and background, having earned a director’s certification and international medals with other singing groups. Murphy is the choir director and piano teacher for Ruston High School and serves as worship leader for First Baptist Church in Choudrant.
For more information concerning either membership or booking a performance, visit the website southernachordchorus.org or the Facebook page Southern A’Chord Chorus, or contact Murphy at 501-318-8701.
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I learned what Rene Descartes said, “I think, therefore I am.” I’m still not sure what Rene was getting at, but it sounds good. If you say it in Latin, “Cogito ergo sum” you can sound very intellectual, while not wholly understanding the concept.
I’m a more pedestrian thinker. My version of it is, “I drive, therefore I am.” I should have kept up with all the miles I have put on vehicles. I live twenty-three minutes from the church. I spend nearly an hour in the car each day going to and from the office. I love my commute on I-20. I have prayer time in the morning and again in the afternoon. There are times that I’m praying for the driver in front of me, that they would quit being “doubleminded” and put their foot on the accelerator. I have also called upon the name of the Lord when the driver in the left lane suddenly cuts across my lane to exit the interstate quickly. I’ll wager they are thinking, “I signaled, didn’t I?”
For the past weeks from roughly the Bienville Parish line to the city limits of Ruston a little work has been going on. The trees on the side of the interstate are being removed. There is heavy equipment involved in the clearing of the shoulder. The contractor is cutting the trees down and then a machine comes and turns the tree into mulch. For miles, this crew is transforming the shoulder of the interstate. They are also removing the trees from the median of the interstate.
My first thought, when I saw the equipment, was I needed one of those.
My view has changed as the trees have disappeared.
The trees were allowed to grow too close to the road. I don’t know that factually, but it is an educated guess. This trimming allows for a margin of grass to separate drivers from trees that might fall in some kind of storm. It is visually appealing and calming.
Who would have thought that margin was important on the Interstate? Margin is the edge or border of something. The page you are reading has some kind of margin. If it did not, your brain would revolt at the visual effrontery. We need a margin around the page to read. I’m learning that margin around the road is important too.
How about margin in your life? How are you getting it all done? Are you taking time to reflect? To rest? To pray?
I’m going to translate what Jesus said, in your Bibles it is transliterated.
Jesus said, “Rest (The Sabbath) was created for humanity, not humanity for the rest. (Sabbath.) Sabbath, rest, downtime, relaxing, or if you will margin, is a gift from God that allows you to renew yourself and to discover God’s grace in the simple things of life.
Take time off, it will change your view of the journey.
Doug de Graffenried is Pastor of Trinity Methodist Church in Ruston, Louisiana.
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Jordan Brown returns for a second season as Lincoln Prep’s starting quarterback. (Photo by T. Scott Boatright)
By T. Scott Boatright
GRAMBLING — The Lincoln Prep Panthers get one final preseason look at their team as they participate tonight in the Delhi Jamboree.
And they expect a challenging test in front of them. The Panthers are coming off a 2-7 campaign last year and will take on Delta Charter, which went 8-2 in 2023.
Lincoln Prep coach Glen Hall preaches defense, and his Panthers expected to be tested on that side of the ball by the Storm as Delta Charter averaged 41.6 points per game last season.
Hall is looking for a stronger offense for his team this season after having key playmakers flash at times in 2023 and during last week’s scrimmage against Book T. Washington.
Senior D’Tavion Wright will be the workhorse for the Panthers’ offense this season.
“Wright runs the ball the way I like to see it run,” Hall said. “He runs with power but also has speed to go along with that. He’s a good receiver, too, but it’s that power I really like.”
Adding to Wright’s “Boom” for the Panthers’ running back corps is the “Zoom” of senior speedster Jaylin Huntley.
“The thing is, we have a really good mix of talent and ability at that position,” Hall said. “If Huntley can stay focused, he can be a big part of our offense, too. And I think he’s ready.
“So, if I can get them to combine for 150-200 yards per game, we’re in good shape.”
Having Tyler Wimberly in the mix at fullback will only make the Panthers a stronger rushing team.
“But it’s not only Wright and Huntley,” Hall said. “Wimberly is a hard-nosed runner who powers straight forward and fights his way through the defense. And we have some other guys who can help at that position. I feel good about that group.”
Jordan Brown returns for a second season as the Panthers’ starter at quarterback and Hall is only focused on hopes to see one thing from his senior — game management.
“He’s got a year up under his belt and we really need him to become more consistent and become more of a leader,” Hall said about Brown. “He’s still the type of guy who sometimes wants to play back there in the back of the crowd trying too hard to make something big happen and ends up being sacked. He’s got to protect the football, not get sacked and do a good job of game management and let the rest happen around him.”
Hall is looking for one other improved skill from his quarterback.
“As a starting quarterback, you’ve got to be more of a leader. He’s got to understand that while he might not be a quarterback that’s going to blow everybody away, if he plays within this system, he could be very successful. And part of that is him stepping up into the kind of leadership role we need from him.”
Hall expects to use the Wildcat offensive set frequently this season with Wright playing the quarterback role.
“We’re not a deep ball team,” Hall said. “We’re going to run the ball and throw some play-action passes. Think about it, Wright, Huntley and Wimberly all back there together. We’re going to take advantage of having those three guys on offense.”
If Hall feels good about his offense, he feels even better about his defense.
“We have a pair of good linebackers in D’Tavion Wright and Tyler Wimberly,” Hall said. “Verlanski Glosson is returning at strong safety. Jaylin Huntley is returning at safety. Trey Spann and Cenario Wilson return in our backfield, so we have some guys who can run and make plays on defense.
“That’s our strong point on that side of the ball — being able to run and make plays. We also have my big guy, (lineman) Ryan Randolph that we’re going to get a chance to get some blows, and even a little rest will help him because we had to use him a lot last year. A lot.”
But the Panthers will start the season shorthanded on that side of the ball. Senior defensive lineman Jamarion Brown broke a hand in practice this week while senior defensive back Xavier Harris damaged his collarbone on Wednesday.
“It was just a freak accident during a basic tackling drill,” Hall said of Harris’ injury. He went too low with his shoulder and hurt his clavicle. We’ll hear from the doctors (today), so I don’t know how long he’ll be out. But he is also one of our better receivers, so he gives us depth on both sides of the ball.”
Hall said he feels good about his team heading into tonight’s jamboree.
“Today went well. Yesterday went well. I’m almost scared after last season,” Hall joked Thursday evening. “But the kids seemed focused and ready, so they have me excited.”
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Although the two schools are no longer in the same district starting this year, Cedar Creek and Ouachita Christian will still face off on the gridiron.
The Cougars and the Eagles will play at 4 p.m. today at Malone Stadium on the campus of ULM as part of the Bayou Jamb lineup.
The two 12-minute quarter “game” will provide the Cougars their final tune-up prior to opening the regular season next Friday on the road at Delta Charter.
Head coach William Parkerson said his squad had a good week of preparations leading into today’s contest.
“We had two really good days of practice,” said Parkerson. “I think we got them refocused. The guys have rebounded and had a good week, and I am looking forward to (today).”
Creek struggled in multiple phases in its home scrimmage last Friday against Lakeside, but Parkerson said he thinks the lumps the Cougars took against the Warriors will be beneficial in the long run.
“We had some bad alignments and some miscommunication (last week against Lakeside),” said Parkerson. “If we catch those things and fix them earlier, the scrimmage may have looked a little different. It was good to get it on tape. It was all coachable and fixable. We have to do a better job coaching and let the players go play.”
It should come as no surprise that Cedar Creek isn’t firing on all cylinders during the fall preseason after the Cougars lost a host of key contributors from last year’s team. With the Cougars two-deep full of plenty of underclassmen, it’s going to take time for them to find their way.
However, the second-year Creek head coach said he is eager to watch the maturation process.
“With a young team, it will be fun to watch the growth this year,” said Parkerson. “I think we will make some big jumps week to week as a lot of guys with no playing experience get experience. I think you will see them grow up fast.
“We need the few returning starters we have to lead by example and to lead by being vocal. We need to get the young guys up to (speed) and rolling right along side of them.”
Today’s “game” against OCS may be the toughest the Cougars will face this year. The Eagles have been one of the top teams in Class A for years and 2024 should be no different. However, Parkerson knows the experience from today’s match-up will be another opportunity to get film and make improvements prior to next Friday night.
So what is the goal?
“Same as it is every week; compete hard and be physical and see how we stack up,” said Parkerson. “I told the kids it would be a great challenge this week. We get to play one of the perennial small school top dogs in the state. We will have a good idea where we stand after (today).”
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