The Louisiana Tech dropped the opening match of the Wooo Pig Invitational to Little Rock, 25-22, 25-20, and 25-11, at Barnhill Arena on Friday morning.
“Hats off to Little Rock,” said Tech head coach Amber McCray. “We knew they’d come in playing with a ton of confidence after an undefeated opening weekend, and we failed to match that. There were numerous missed opportunities for us in the red zone of the first set that would have completely turned the tide of the match, but we let Little Rock’s offense get going and gain momentum that made it even more difficult to stop.”
The teams traded points to start the match before the Trojans (4-0) jumped out to an 8-3 lead behind a .600 hitting percentage. The Bulldogs (3-2) would gradually work their way back into the match and call a timeout down 19-17.
Tech reeled off four straight points out of the timeout to take a two-point lead, but Little Rock would take five of the final six points to take the set.
Little Rock jumped out to the lead again early in set two, forcing Tech to fight from behind again. The Bulldogs continued to battle and eventually were within two on multiple occasions. However, the fight was not enough, as the Trojans took the second set.
The score in the third set does not indicate the Bulldogs’ effort. Several long rallies did not go Tech’s way, as the Trojans took the third set.
Giulia Bonifacio would lead the team in kills for the fifth time this season with 10. Rori Gray and Jailen Hurley contributed six and five kills, respectively. Gray would finish with a .600 hitting percentage and three blocks. Riley Steubing led the Bulldogs defensively with 15 digs, and Charlize Williams added four blocks.
“While majority of our offense struggled all game, Rori Gray continued to shine for us and that’s something we can keep building on and finding ways to get her more attempts,” said McCray. “I am also very proud of Riley Steubing for stepping up in the Libero jersey when we needed her and playing lights out. This team is still a work in progress, so we will look to learn from this and turn the page quickly to a new day and new team tomorrow.”
Jeila Fullerton and Bella Cherry had double-digit kills for Little Rock with 13 and 10. Andrea Roman has 20 digs to lead the Trojans.
Louisiana Tech returns on Saturday to take on Rutgers at noon, and the host, No. 21 Arkansas at 7 p.m. on ESPN+.
For the latest local news, subscribe FOR FREE to the Lincoln Parish Journal and receive an email each weekday morning at 6:55 right to your inbox.Just CLICK HERE to sign up.
The senior outside hitter for the Ruston High Lady Bearcats (2-0) finished a Thursday match on the road at Airline with an 18-kill performance on 20 attempts.
Ruston High dropped the first set 17-25, but then rallied back for three straight 25-13, 25-21, and 25-23.
“This match was a battle,” Ruston High head coach Mandy Cauley said. “I’m proud of our composure. We didn’t start strong, but we found our rhythm and fought hard to finish well.?
Harper’s performance was helped in large part to her sophomore sister Baylor and junior setter Laia Canovas, who combined for 27 assists. Baylor added nine kills, as well, while sophomore Ava Crowe added three blocks on the night.
Sophomore outside hitter Jane Ramsey finished the night with four kills on four attempts.
“I moved (Jane) to the right side,” Cauley said. “She did a great job there.”
Ruston returns to action today at the North/South Tourney in Lafayette, La.
For the latest local news, subscribe FOR FREE to the Lincoln Parish Journal and receive an email each weekday morning at 6:55 right to your inbox.Just CLICK HERE to sign up.
(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).
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Name: Brandon A. Logan
Age: 39
Employer: Grambling State University
Title: Vice President for University Advancement and Innovation
Hometown: San Antonio, Texas
Civic Volunteer Organizations: Rotary Club of Lincoln; Ruston Convention and Visitor’s Bureau, United Way of Northeast Louisiana
Professional Highlights: Chairman of the San Antonio Martin Luther King, Jr. Commission; President of the Rotary Club of San Antonio; Tri-Chair of the 2022 City of San Antonio Bond Program; Rotary International Service Above Self Award Recipient; Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., International Citizen of the Year Award Recipient; Grambling University Distinguished Alumni Award Recipient; Outstanding Young San Antonian Award Recipient; National Coalition of 100 Black Women Community Legend Award Recipient; Recipient of President Obama’s Volunteer Service Award.
ULS President Dr. Richard Gallot on Brandon Logan:
“Brandon Logan embodies a rare combination of intelligence, discipline, energy, focus, and pragmatism. He pursues excellence as the standard outcome in every task and project. He is adept at balancing the “big picture” with meticulous attention to detail, reflecting the tenacity he displayed while playing on the gridiron for Coach Doug Williams and the business acumen learned as a student of Dr. Tsegai Emmanuel in the GSU College of Business.
“Brandon has brought a personal touch back to the Office of University Advancement and Innovation by reviving the art of handwritten notes. In a digital age where such gestures seem to be a lost art, Brandon recognizes the importance of expressing his appreciation in a tangible and heartfelt way to all who have devoted their time, talent, and resources to GSU.
“Brandon’s commitment to his personal life is as strong as his dedication to his professional career. As a Christian and a devoted husband to his wife, Ryanne, and their son, Bryce, he sets an inspiring example. Despite Ryanne’s successful career as an athletics administrator at GSU, they both manage to balance faith, family, and work with apparent ease. Their seamless integration into the Lincoln Parish community is a testament to their commitment, and we are fortunate that they chose to make this their home.”
Q&A with Brandon Logan
What makes Lincoln Parish special? Lincoln Parish offers a rare combination of serene settings, authentic people, and a stable economy, which suits my family’s lifestyle very well.
How do you see your role/place in making our parish such a wonderful place to call home? My primary objective in life, regardless of location, is to maximize the gifts God has uniquely assigned to my life to serve His people, while bringing honor to His name.
Who has played a role in your professional development and why? The unwavering support that I receive from my wife, Ryanne, on a daily basis has allowed me to grow and succeed in my career and current role at Grambling State University.
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Pictured is new Grambling Public Works Director Eric Caldwell talking to the City Council during Thursday night’s meeting. (Photo by T. Scott Boatright)
By T. Scott Boatright
New Public Works Director Eric Caldwell was introduced Thursday evening as Grambling’s City Council meeting at City Hall.
The City Council voted Caldwell as the new Public Works Director during last month’s meeting, but he was not at that meeting, so Thursday was his first time appearing before the public in his new role.
“Mr. Caldwell comes highly recommended and is credentialed and certified in both water and sewers, so he’s a great addition to our team here at the city of Grambling,” Mayor Alvin Bradley said.
Caldwell said his early focus had been on improving the Public Works department through change.
“Most of you already know who I am, but I’m excited about the chance to try and lead the Public Works department in a new direction,” Caldwell said. “My plan and goal are for the Public Works department to be different, and what I mean by that is trying to be more accessible to the community and trying to meet the needs of the community.
“As a matter of fact, I got my feet wet the first few days that I started working when I worked with Ms. Barbara McIntyre to get her taken care of with a brown water problem she was having. My goal is for Public Works to be different. I do not expect it to be as exciting as it’s always been, because I’m expecting it to be better.”
The Council also approved the hiring of Michael Holland to Grambling’s Sanitation Department and fill in with the Public Works Department when needed upon Caldwell’s recommendation.
Public Works issues were big components of the meeting as Grambling’s City Council also approved a change order recommended by consulting city engineer Henry Shuler regarding the “Water Sector Program — Wastewater College System Renovation” project.
Shuler said the change order is made up of four items.
“The first line item is due to a failure on Webster (Street),” Shuler said. “We already knew about that but that is not a simple thing to fix. The next item is Stadium View, which needs a new wetwell. That particular wetwell was concrete, and the key word is ‘was.’ It is shot, so the entire wetwell is shot and has to be taken out and replaced.
“And the next item is the College Lift Station force main. That is actually to pay for work that’s already been done. The last line item is the Hills of Grambling Lift Station. That wet well is still salvageable but there’s groundwater just pouring into it. The line item to reline that wet well (with fiberglass) is significant and not easy because it is not like you can just cut the groundwater off to do the work.”
Shuler said all of that work amounts to around $160,000.
“But the good news is that we were significantly under budget from Day One,” Shuler said. “So, I’m not sitting up here crying about having to do it, because of that and we have to do these things and we’ve been blessed to be under budget without costing the city any additional dollars.”
Shuler also said that a water project to replace half or so of the city’s water meters and several dozen valves has finally gone to bid.
“One word of warning, once that project begins there will be a series of interruptions to the city’s water supply while those changes are being made,” Shuler said. “You don’t have many valves in your water system, so while this job will correct that, they’re going to have to shut the water systems down to be able to cut those new valves in.
“Afterward, they won’t have to do that anymore so that when there’s a leak, they’ll be able to make fixes a street at the time instead of a whole big part of the water supply.”
Grambling’s City Council also approved the hiring of a part-time Main Street Director as Amri Douglas has taken over that role.
For the latest local news, subscribe FOR FREE to the Lincoln Parish Journal and receive an email each weekday morning at 6:55 right to your inbox.Just CLICK HERE to sign up.
A Lake Charles woman who refused to leave the restroom of a Ruston restaurant was arrested last Sunday.
Kala Harrell, 41, was arrested for remaining on premises after being forbidden after she told Ruston Police she had snorted a prescription drug and refused directives to leave the restroom.
When officers arrived at the Taco Bell on West California Avenue in Ruston, they were told a woman went into a stall in the restroom, locked it, and had been in a significant amount of time. The employee said they were trying to close the restaurant and told her to leave, but she refused.
Officers met with Harrell and recognized her from contact earlier in the day. She told police she was prescribed gabapentin and instead of ingested ingesting it, she had snorted three pills, causing her to become extremely sedated. She was asked multiple times to gather her belongings and leave and she failed to comply each time.
Harrell was arrested and taken to the Northern Louisiana Medical Center for a medical evaluation. Once hospital personnel cleared her, she was taken to the Lincoln Parish Detention Center and booked for remaining on premises after being forbidden (criminal trespass).
Bail was at $1,000.
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.
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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).
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).
Only one entry per participant will be accepted each week.
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!
Follow the Lincoln Parish Journal each morning at 6:55 right to your inbox. It’s FREE! Just CLICK HERE to sign up.
Hunters will be flocking to sporting good stores and outdoor centers this weekend to take advantage of a “tax-free holiday” as hunting season approaches.
The Louisiana Department of Revenue has announced consumer purchases of guns, ammunition, and a wide range of hunting supplies are exempt from state and local sales tax during the Louisiana Second Amendment Weekend Sales Tax Holiday, which runs Friday, September 6 through Sunday, September 8.
State Senator Stewart Cathey brought the “Second Amendment Holiday” back in 2023 after the tax break was suspended in 2018 out of budget concerns.
The exemption applies statewide to all consumer purchases of firearms and ammunition as well as archery items, clothing and boots typically marketed for wear or use while hunting, game bags, hunting tools, firearm cases, pirogues, range fingers, knives, decoys, tree stands, and miscellaneous gear manufactured and marketed as being primarily for use in hunting.
Items not tax exempt include animals such as hunting dogs, animal feed, off-road vehicles, heavy equipment, and boats.
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
Simsboro
Our students collected a total of 1,933 items for the FBLA Hygiene Drive. The items will be stored in our nurse’s office that will benefit students of our school.
Our 3rd annual Purple and White Night will be on Friday, October 18th. Elementary students have the opportunity to play basketball with their coaches being our very own Simsboro Tiger Basketball players! We are excited for this community event!
Our Junior High Basketball season has begun! Our girls and boys teams will be playing in the Choudrant tournament this weekend.
Elementary Schools
Choudrant Elementary School
We would like to congratulate two of our leading teachers.
Mrs. Danyelle O’Neal, our school mental health counselor, was recognized as a 2024 Lincoln Leader. She does so much for our students, faculty, and community. We would also like to congratulate Mrs. Hailey Aycock, our 5th grade ELA teacher. She was named CES 2024-2025 Teacher of the Year. She is an amazing educator and a true inspiration to her students and fellow teachers. We are so blessed to have both of these amazing educators at our school.
We would like to thank Douglas Methodist Church for providing our staff with a Welcome Back to School Breakfast, Origin Bank for providing lunch, and our PTO for stocking the lounge with SNACKS!
Special Events
9/6 –Grandparents Day for Pre K & 1st Grade
9/9 Grandparents Day for Kindergarten and 2nd Grade
9/10 Open House for PreK-2nd Grade
For the latest local news, subscribe FOR FREE to the Lincoln Parish Journal and receive an email each weekday morning at 6:55 right to your inbox.Just CLICK HERE to sign up.
It’s been 265 days since the Ruston High Bearcats have taken to the field for an official game.
And it was that team that won the 2023 Non-Select, Division I state championship over Zachary.
That was then: now, it’s time for the 2024 Bearcats to make their own mark in the history books for the Firmly Founded, and there will be fewer opponents that Ruston could face that would tougher for a season opener than the Acadiana Wreckin’ Rams.
“I think this team is ready to assume it’s own identity,” Ruston High head coach Jerrod Baugh said. “We’ve finally transitioned them into that. I think there was a long hangover (after the championship). I mean, I get it — everybody hooks this year to last because you are the returning state champions, but you do lose guys. This isn’t the same football team, and this one needs to have its own identity. I think they’re looking forward to that and bringing forward what this team is about and what we represent.”
The Bearcats most recently got a heroic performance out of senior cornerback Aidan Anding in the 2024 Bayou Jamb matchup against the Neville Tigers with two interceptions (one returned for a score) and a kickoff return for the go-ahead touchdown and got a 20-15 win. Baugh will admit that Ruston had some missed chances that night.
“We had some opportunities to spread the lead at times,” Baugh said. “I thought we shot ourselves in the foot and made some big time mistakes that led to points for Neville. Anytime you do that against a good football team, it puts you in a bind. Then, we were able to make some big plays at the end to overcome that, but you’re not always going to be able to do that. It was a good learning experience for this football team.”
The Louisiana Sports Writers Association’s first 5A poll also released this past week, dubbing the Bearcats the top team in the state of Louisiana in their classification. For Baugh and the staff, the goal has been to keep the kids focused on Friday night football — not preseason rankings.
“I reminded the guys this week that we were not ranked number one at any point last year and we won the championship,” Baugh said. “It’s a respect for out football program, but the issue for our kids is that they have to put in the work. We don’t want to prove those people wrong, but we really need to stop and think about how to keep our football program there.”
Ruston and Acadiana both swapped film from there respective scrimmages over the last few weeks, and anyone familiar with the Wreckin’ Rams can expect the same steady triple-option ground game to go with a stout defense.
“There’s not much surprise (on the tapes),” Baugh said. “They’ve had a great tradition of football– they’ve won multiple state championships in the last ten years. They know what it takes as a coaching staff. We respect their program, and I think it will be a great night for football, and hopefully, both programs will give people what they want to see. They’re not going to come up here scared because we’re ranked number one. They’ve been there and know what it’s all about.
“I think it’s going to be a really great night for football and hopefully a great football game.”
On the offensive side of the ball, both senior lineman Sam Nations and sophomore receiver Ahmad Hudson have been recovering from injuries in the last couple of weeks. Baugh said Nations has been able to practice and is doing better. For Hudson, his right arm cast has been cut off and reapplied to give him some better movement in his hand.
The goal for Baugh, however, is not to push too hard on either of them this early in the year.
The Bearcats and Rams will kickoff at 7 p.m. tonight. The game will be streamed live on Bearcat Nation Network and Q94.1 FM. Kyle Roberts and Nick Brown will return to the booth and will be joined by Toby Nations and Matthew Carswell.
For the latest local news, subscribe FOR FREE to the Lincoln Parish Journal and receive an email each weekday morning at 6:55 right to your inbox.Just CLICK HERE to sign up.
Hayden Durrett (15) and James Myers (3) take down OCS running back Makin Lenard during last Friday’s jamboree. (photo by Darrell James)
by Malcolm Butler
The dress rehearsal is over.
Tonight Week 1 of the Louisiana high school football season officially kicks off as the Cedar Creek Cougars travel to Delhi Charter for a 7 p.m. start time.
And both teams are playing for keeps.
The Cougars are coming off a 4-6 season in 2023 in which they qualified for the Select School Division IV playoffs, falling to Catholic Pointe Coupee in the first round of the postseason.
Delhi Charter was 5-6 last year before falling Vermilion Catholic in the second round of the state playoffs.
Creek head coach William Parkerson said he has watched film on the Gators and knows his team is in for a competitive opener.
“They have really good team speed so defensively we have to do a good job of keeping their quarterback and their two running backs bottled up,” said Parkerson. “They are best when they get to the perimeter so we have to do a good job of setting the edge and rallying to the football.
“Defensively, their nose tackle, one of the defensive ends and their two safeties are their best four players in my opinion. We need to make sure if we are leaving one of those guys unblocked to read them that we are getting up to the next level. Those four guys are what make their team go.”
Cedar Creek hasn’t faired well “on the scoreboard” during its scrimmage against Lakeside and its jamboree against Ouachita Christian. However, playing two talented teams leading up to tonight’s opener will only help the Cougars.
“As long as we stay mentally engaged, it’s only going to make us better,” said Parkerson. “After watching film, we did a lot of good things defensively (for giving up 37 points against OCS). It was the big plays defensively. We would have two good plays but then give up a big play. If we can be more consistent and make sure we are in the right gaps and get that fixed defensively, I think we are ahead of where I thought we would be.
“Offensively, we are close. It’s a seam here or a seam there. We are closer offensively then it has looked. We need to come out (tonight) and execute and physically get after them. We need to set the tone and get this thing going.”
Plenty has already been written this preseason about the youthfulness of this year’s Cougar team, especially at many of the skill position. And although there may be plenty of growing pains this year, especially early, it bodes well for the future of the program.
Parkerson said his freshman signal caller, Cason Floyd, is making strides and he is eager to watch his growth this year.
“He has been good,” said Parkerson in regards to Floyd’s mindset. “It’s going fast for him which I expected. He is able to communicate what he is seeing which lets me know that he is actually trying to read it. It’s just moving a little fast where he is seeing its a pull read but by the time he actually realizes it, it’s too late to pull it. As it slows down for him in the next couple of weeks, I think we will see big jumps.”
Tonight’s contest will be aired live on 99.3 FM with the pregame Coaches Show beginning at 6:15 p.m. with Ray Creasy and Ben Haddox providing a call of all the action.
For the latest local news, subscribe FOR FREE to the Lincoln Parish Journal and receive an email each weekday morning at 6:55 right to your inbox.Just CLICK HERE to sign up.
Things get real for the Lincoln Preparatory School football team as the Panthers hit the road to kick off regular season play at D’Arbonne Woods Academy at 7 p.m. today at Timberwolves Field.
The last time the Panthers took on D’Arbonne Woods came in September of 2018 when Lincoln Prep fell to the Timberwolves 33-26.
Last week Lincoln Prep played Delta Charter to a scoreless tie at the Delhi jamboree while D’Arbonne Woods defeated St. Frederick 7-6 at the Bayou Jamb at ULM’s Malone Stadium.
Lincoln Prep went 2-7 last season while D’Arbonne Woods finished at 8-2.
Panthers coach Glen Hall hopes that a year’s worth of experience will pay off for his Panthers, especially on the offensive side of the ball.
“This one isn’t going to be easy — they’re a good team and showed that last season,” Hall said about the Timberwolves. “But we’re hoping gaining experience last year will pay off for us this season.
“The most important thing will be focusing and not beating ourselves with silly penalties and miscues. It was those kinds of mishaps that cost us the jamboree last week. We should have won that game.”
Lincoln Prep moved into the red zone four times during last week’s jamboree game, driving to the Delta Charter one- and six-yard lines while producing no points.
“It was mishap after mishap,” Hall said. “We’d move the ball and get down there inside the 20. But once we got down there, we just couldn’t score it.”
Hall is hoping for better this week, starting with his running back corps.
Senior D’Tavion Wright will be the workhorse for the Panthers’ offense this season.
If Wright is the “Boom” for the Panthers’ running back corps, the “Zoom” is 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.”
Something Hall will be looking for is to see senior quarterback Jordan Brown protect the football and not give up big sacks that often proved costly last season.
“If Brown plays within this system, he has the ability to be very successful,” Hall said. “And part of that is him stepping up into the kind of leadership role we need from him. 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 will not hesitate to move to the Wildcat offense with Wright playing the quarterback role if needed.
“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.”
Hall hopes his Panthers did gain one advantage during last week’s jamboree that could help the Panthers’ against D’Arbonne Woods.
“They run the same offense that Delta Charter ran,” Hall said. “But that also means D’Arbonne Woods will probably try and take advantage of that and use some things that Delta Charter used to move the ball on us some.”
“So, we’re going to see a lot of wing, a lot of speed sweeps and little counters on the inside.”
For the latest local news, subscribe FOR FREE to the Lincoln Parish Journal and receive an email each weekday morning at 6:55 right to your inbox.Just CLICK HERE to sign up.
A letter from Brandon Forester, owner of Omega Entertainment
“As a proud alumnus of both Louisiana Tech and Ruston High, I and the station are honored to bring you the live broadcast of Ruston High Bearcat Football this season. This journey started long ago– while in 1991 as a student, I recorded my first radio ad with Mrs. Loyce Miller at Ruston High. A lot of water under the bridge since. In February of this year, I purchased the only locally owned and operated station in Ruston from my longtime friend and fraternity brother, Bill Brown. Bill was adamant about keeping the stations local. Locally owned, locally invested, locally involved. We love where we live and we love what we do!
“Since then, we’ve upgraded the studio to an all-digital format for broadcasting. 24/7 mobile apps, live streaming, and much more. With this additional significant investment in our equipment, we are able to successfully merge, strengthen, and enhance the effectiveness of our local radio listening experience. The easy/free app downloads for all live access, all the time, from anywhere… wherever you are, we can be there with you., Phone tablet, dashboard, desktop, etc… The more listeners we reach, the more we can help local businesses, local non-profits, events, festivals, and sports like the Bearcats on Q94.1 and the Jonesboro-Hodge Tigers on the new Roux 102.3.
“Speaking of the Roux, we’re bringing back the 5th Quarter nostalgia eery Friday night following our football broadcast to air The Ruston Rec Dance show. We’ve poured over decades of research to catalogue and play the songs that Bearcat Nation partied to at the old Rec Center. You can download the app by going to your app store and searching “Q941”. The Roux app can be found by searching “ROUX102”.
“I’d be remiss not to thank my station crew Tootsie, Rob Tucker, “Lonesome” Loyd, Scott Howard, Larry Allen, Barry Gilliland, Chris Peddie, Rick Godley, Mike Stone, and my wife Deanna. Their dedication and hard work behind the scenes has made this all possible.
“And last but not least, the Bearcat broadcast team of Kyle Roberts, Nick Brown, Toby Nations and Matthew Carswell, who I consider the best broadcast team in the state. We’re looking forward to an exciting and successful season!
My grandson said, “This is supposed to be the happiest place on earth.”
He was at Disney World. Last week the family took a trip to Disney World in Orlando. Nana had her two children and her two grandchildren in the Magic Kingdom. The trip was perfected by granddad staying home in north Louisiana. I told the truth, “I don’t do Disney.”
On Thursday night the whole tribe had an unscheduled, unplanned adventure. In the park two unrelated events happened. The first was a fight. The second was a balloon popping. The second event stirred alarms, and the park went into active shooter mode. People went diving into shops. They hid in storage rooms. They ducked under clothes racks. A few people got to experience the secret walkway behind all the shops. My six all managed to dive for safety together. The situation lasted for only twenty minutes or so. I can’t imagine the feelings.
It was at that point that our oldest grandson issued his commentary on the event. The happiest place on earth was on active shooter lockdown. He was stuffed into a closet with a bunch of strangers. I don’t believe the story was picked up outside of the Orlando news media. Everyone was safe.
This falls under the general heading of “stuff happens.”
When it does, what is your plan of action?
It is interesting that the Bible assumes that “stuff happens.” All sorts of stuff happened to the righteous man Job. His friends asked why. The New Testament writers told the early church, don’t be surprised when hard times come. They happen to test and purify our faith.
John’s gospel records Jesus saying, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” In John’s gospel the story of Jesus in the boat with the disciples on the stormy night was told differently. In John’s version of the story, Jesus does not calm the storm. John informs his readers, “The boat landed on the other shore.” It illustrates how Jesus overcomes trouble.
John’s point is perfect when life at the happiest place on earth goes on lockdown. Jesus may not calm all storms, but your faith in Him will get you to your destination.
For the latest local news, subscribe FOR FREE to the Lincoln Parish Journal and receive an email each weekday morning at 6:55 right to your inbox.Just CLICK HERE to sign up.
The City of Ruston announced, weather permitting, that Bernard St. will be closed to through traffic Thursday, September 5, 2024, from 7pm to 4am and Friday, September 6, from 7pm to 4am. This closure is necessary to allow CPKC Railroad to work on railroad crossing.
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.
For the latest local news, subscribe FOR FREE to the Lincoln Parish Journal and receive an email each weekday morning at 6:55 right to your inbox.Just CLICK HERE to sign up.
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.
Friday, Sept. 6 7 p.m.: Ruston High football game Saturday, Sept. 7 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Farmers Market 6 p.m.: GSU football
Louisiana Tech Athletics is pleased to introduce Louisiana Tech Sports Performance Institute (LTSPI) designed to impact the entire Bulldog Nation while generating revenue in ways previously not realized in college athletics.
Benefiting Louisiana Tech Athletics and housed within the Louisiana Tech Foundation, LTSPI will become a preeminent “Sports Tech & Research Hub” and will disseminate best practices to sports organizations throughout the region and nationally.
Different from existing collegiate sports institutes housed within academic departments, the LTSPI will engage with donors and participate in academic research opportunities in which the athletic department has a competitive interest.
“Collegiate athletics are a vital part of the university experience,” said Tech President Jim Henderson. “Student-athletes compete at the next level while developing as individuals for life and career success and that competition cultivates enthusiasm in students, alumni, and fans alike. LTSPI is a catalyst to make collegiate athletics more sustainable for Louisiana Tech and beyond.”
A cross-campus initiative, LTSPI will integrate with Louisiana Tech University’s research and scholarship to realize innovation in every area of athletics.
“Innovative and entrepreneurial leadership will be the key to excellence and success in the dynamic environment of college athletics, and LTSPI is a prime example,” said Louisiana Tech Foundation CEO Davy Norris. “This new initiative has the potential to drive technology innovations in sports performance, create new learning and research opportunities for students and faculty, enhance recruiting and development of student athletes, and generate new revenue capacity to support our athletics enterprise.”
By adding new revenue streams and a strategic approach to upcoming revenue sharing legislation, Louisiana Tech Athletics will design a sustainable funding model that does not live solely on the backs of donors or ticket holders.
“We are extremely excited to begin what we believe will be a transformative initiative for the athletics department,” said Tech Vice President and Director of Athletics Ryan Ivey. “LTSPI is designed to reach across campus to integrate the athletics and academics units through research and innovation. With the immense changes in the intercollegiate athletics landscape, one of the goals of LTSPI is to add additional revenue to the department, along with maintaining our commitment to investing and engaging in our community.”
The LTSPI’s Functions:
Bulldog Venture Fund: A revenue generating tool unlike any other in college athletics, the Bulldog Venture Fund will serve as a catalyst to stimulate and incubate innovation on campus that will benefit the athletic department. Merging the benefits of traditional venture capital firms with the benefits of the Louisiana Tech Foundation allows for donor access to technology right here on campus. Donations to the LTAC will allow the athletic department to source and develop technology while earning donors priority points and LTAC benefits. Sports Tech R&D has already been sourced and members of the Bulldog Venture Fund have a front row seat and first rights to participate as we begin to recruit entrepreneurs to participate in our program.
Grant Writing: When sponsored research and programming opportunities are within the athletic department scope, LTSPI will act as a co-sponsor to enhance the University’s competitive position and assist in additional research dollars being secured by departments across campus.
Coaching Education Portal: Within the Coaching Education Portal (CEP), visitors will find best practices organized by sport or administrative function. Visitors are welcome to download these documents to use with their teams or coaching staff to help them perform at the highest level. Materials will be added throughout the year.
Youth Leadership Institute: Led by Ed Jackson, Associate A.D. for Community Outreach and former leader of student-athlete engagement, the Youth Leadership Institute will provide character growth, coaching education, and life skills development. To realize this vision, the Institute will host pre-game leadership tailgates before home football games and women and men’s basketball games.
Advance & Advocate for On-Campus Research: LTSPI will highlight and aggregate on-campus sports-and-performance-related research. Dr. David Szymanski will serve as the Institute’s director of research. With an already robust sports research portfolio, he will be charged with growing sports-related research and identifying opportunities that will benefit both athletics and researchers alike.
“LTSPI is an innovative approach to utilizing and realizing some extraordinary efforts already underway on campus and within the athletics department, and we look forward to great collaboration,” said Ivey.
Those donors wishing to support the LTSPI’s efforts may reach out to the Louisiana Tech Foundation’s Championship Resources team at (318) 255-7950 or by email at wally@latechalumni.org.
To learn more about the Louisiana Tech Sports Performance Institute, please visit www.LATechSportScience.com.
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Graveside services for Mr. Michael Coy “Mike” Gibson, age 59 of Farmerville, LA, are scheduled for 10:00 AM, Friday, September 6, 2024 at Danville Cemetery in Danville, LA with Dr. Reggie Bridges officiating. Services are under the direction of Owens Memorial Chapel Funeral Home of Ruston.
Mike was born May 15, 1965, in Montgomery, AL and passed away September 4, 2024, in Ruston, LA. Mike grew up in Mississippi where he graduated high school and college. He later moved to North Louisiana where he worked in forestry, owned chicken houses, and most recently worked as a measurement technician for Energy Transfer in Ruston.
Mike was the toughest man around, had a witty sense of humor, and was always willing to help others. Mike loved his son, Cade, very much and always looked forward to watching him play baseball. The two have shared many memories together whether it was little league baseball practice, watching football on weekends, talking about pitching, or deer hunting. Mike would always say how proud he was of his son; Cade was his pride and joy. Mike spent most of his free time hunting and fishing. He always looked forward to the times he would get to spend with his family in Mississippi during deer season.
Mike was preceded in death by parents: James Denson Horn and Dorothy Sellers; and sister, Janis Cooley.
Mike is survived by son, Cade Gibson and wife Lindsey of Ruston, LA; sister, Rebecca Cornelius of Mobile, AL; brother-in-law, Philip Cooley of Laurel, MS; nephew, Jason Cooley and wife Samantha of Laurel, MS; niece, Crystal McMurry and husband Jason of Laurel, MS; great nephews: Luke Cooley and Madden McMurry; great nieces: Jasmine Cooley and Parker Rose McMurry.
Visitation is scheduled from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM, Thursday, September 5, 2024 at the funeral home.
Funeral services for Daniel Bailey, 82, of Eros, LA will be 11:00 A.M. Saturday, September 7, 2024, at Emmanuel Baptist Church in Ruston, LA. Officiating the service will be Rev. Paul Watts. Interment will follow in W. L. Williams Cemetery near Eros, LA under the direction of Kilpatrick Funeral Home in Ruston, LA
A visitation will be prior to the service beginning at 10:00 A.M. until service time at Emmanuel Baptist Church.
Daniel was born on August 29, 1942, in Eros, LA and passed September 4, 2024, in Choudrant, LA. He was a member of Emmanuel Baptist Church. Daniel had a great love for God and his family and friends. He was a hard working and reliable friend to everyone. He loved to fish, hunt, and served as Mayor of Eros.
Daniel is preceded in death by his parents, Mae and Clyde Bailey and his sister, Margie Henson.
Daniel is survived by his wife Sue Bailey; daughter, Joan Bailey Scott and husband Earl; son, Denver Bailey all of Eros, LA; three grandchildren, Kristin Delancy and husband Daniel; Logan Scott; Landan Bailey and wife Destiny; great grandchildren, Kallie Ann and Ella Kate DeLancy; Braxston and Braelynn Scott; Nova Lopez; and Hudson Bailey; four siblings, Buddy Bailey of West Monroe, LA; Martha Smith of Ruston, LA; Troy Bailey of West Monroe, LA; Ruth Dowdy of West Monroe; and numerous nieces, nephews, and a host of friends.
Pallbearers will be George Gryder, George Henson, Ricky Holton, David Howard, Jamie Lewis, and Kevin McGivney. Honorary pallbearers will be Walter Cox, Randy Lewis, Billy McElduff, and Clyde Pesnell.
Memorials may be made to W. L. Williams Cemetery Fund, % Randy Diffy, 307 Casa Grande St., West Monroe, LA 71291.
(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).
_________________________________________________
Name: Allie DeLeo-Allen
Age: 33
Employer: DKB Solutions, LLC
Title: Owner
Hometown: Baton Rouge
Years Living in Ruston: 16 years
Professional Highlights: Allie worked for Louisiana Tech University’s College of Engineering and Science (COES) for over 10 years in a variety of roles, including recruiting students into engineering and science programs, advising students through their academic career, connecting students with future employers, and teaching students engineering. She cherished the opportunity to see students grow and learn through their college journey. One of her greatest personal accomplishments was earning her PhD while employed at Louisiana Tech.
After her time at the university, she started DKB Solutions, LLC, a grant writing and project management company focused on helping local communities and small businesses apply for and manage grant funding awards. She enjoys working with clients to help make their dreams and ideas a reality through grants.
Awards earned during her time at Louisiana Tech University include:
Outstanding Service Award, Louisiana Tech University’s University Senate (September 2018)
Service Award, Louisiana Tech University’s College of Engineering and Science (October 2015)
Recruiting Award, Louisiana Tech University’s College of Engineering and Science (September 2014)
Alicia B. Kiremire, owner of FlowStream Management, on Allie DeLeo-Allen:
Dr. DeLeo-Allen is the kind of friend and colleague you want to have. Not only does she want good for those around her, she also has the skill to make things happen! She has worked with all different kinds of people in the community – government leaders, employers, students, and educators. And as a business owner herself, she knows the value of supporting other local businesses. She can be seen frequenting local restaurants and coffee shops as she carries out her own work. I’m excited to see new opportunities and funding brought to Lincoln Parish because of the work Dr. DeLeo-Allen is doing.
Q&A with Allie DeLeo-Allen:
What makes Lincoln Parish special?
As the home of two universities, Lincoln Parish is uniquely positioned to benefit from new and diverse ideas, groundbreaking research, and collaborative partnerships that ultimately make our community special.
How do you see your role/place in making our parish such a wonderful place to call home?
People often have brilliant ideas but lack the funding to make these ideas a reality. You often hear people say, “If only I had $X, I could make Y happen.” Helping clients find suitable funding sources to support their ideas, communicate their ideas to funding agencies, and navigate the implementation phase brings their ideas to life and strengthens our community.
Who has played a role in your professional development and why?
Alicia Kiremire of FlowStream Management has graciously served as my mentor over the past year. By sharing her expertise and knowledge from over 15 years in grant writing and evaluation, Alicia has given me the opportunity to enter the grant world with a head start through her supportive phone calls, brainstorming coffee dates, and unwavering confidence in me. I am grateful for her support and friendship.
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(The Anding Brothers: Aidan, left, and Jayden, right. Photo credit: Teresa Brooks)
By Kyle Roberts
Hearing the name “Anding” has to be sending shivers down spines all over the state of Louisiana.
Most everyone in this area (and beyond) is getting more and more familiar with senior all-star cornerback Aidan Anding. In fact, last week in the 2024 Bayou Jamb against Neville, Aidan intercepted two passes, returned one for a touchdown, and ran the game winning kickoff back for a touchdown.
But on Friday nights this fall, it could spell double-trouble for opposing offenses with not one, but two Andings in the secondary as Aidan will be joined by little brother Jayden, a sophomore starting at free safety.
With just a few days to go before the 2024 season officially kicks off, Aidan said he is excited for the chance to line up with his brother.
“This is a good thing, man,” Aidan said. “It’s good for me and our family. We’ve grown up playing together, so getting the chance to play on a higher level and compete with each other against other teams — it’s a blessing.”
Talking to Jayden, it’s easy to see that he’s just as excited.
“It’s amazing to play with my older brother,” Jayden said. “This is one of my father’s dream — I’ve been looking forward to it, and I can learn a lot from him.”
For their mother Candace, it will be a chance for fans to see the real Aidan and Jayden — and just how close the two are, both on the field and off.
“There’s hardly ever a time when they’re fighting, arguing, or disrespectful to each other,” Candace said. “What people will see in public on the field is truly their genuine relationship. It’s authentic, brotherly love and who they are.”
Candace has seen that brotherly love push each other in a positive way. She talked about many times when they would be thinking about the other when it came time to make decisions about what the future would hold for them both sports-wise.
“Aidan actually had some reservations about going back to playing basketball this year,” Candace said. “But I told him that Jayden was watching him and needed an opportunity — Jayden may not have played if Aidan had decided not to. It was the same for Aidan returning to football (last year) — he made his decision while considering his brother getting an opportunity. It was Jayden’s passion for football that I believe helped pushed Aidan to get back in.”
Bearcat head coach Jerrod Baugh understands the brotherly dynamic on the gridiron – as offensive starters back in the mid-90’s for West Ouachita, Baugh was under center for the Chiefs with his younger brother Duston lined up behind him at fullback.
“It was a special time for us,” Baugh said about playing with his younger brother. “You think back and you share all that time, then you don’t know at the moment how special it is. You share all that time at home — My brother and I did a lot of fighting back when we were younger — but you’re able to share some things in a different environment. There’s times where brothers aren’t talking to each other any other time, but then you have to come out (to the field) and be able to communicate.
“I think they’ll look back on it, and it’ll be a really special time for them. Their athletic ability speaks for itself for what they can do on the field. Jayden being a first-year starter will be able to lean on his big brother.”
Ruston High defensive backs coach Kenny Wright has seen their dynamic already working in the offseason and through the two scrimmages.
“Their relationship is great, and they communicate well,” Wright said. “You can tell they have a real relationship and it just carries on the field. It just naturally goes together. And Aidan — he’s been such a big part of helping Jayden develop. It’s been great coaching them both. I’ve been teasing (Candace) for years; even when Aidan left to play basketball, I kept telling her there was a chance they’d be starting in the secondary together. And it came true.”
“ou know, it’s actually kind of funny with Jayden being a free safety and Aidan being a corner: on defense, it’s the free safety that usually overshadows the corner. So now you have the younger brother looking out for the older brother.”
How will big brother handle that dynamic? Like a professional, of course.
“At the end of the day, it’s going to be a good learning experience for me,” Aidan said. “Throughout life, you’ll have to listen to somebody who’s younger than you, but they know more than you, and you have to listen to them. He may be my little brother, but I’ll listen to what he has to say when we’re in coverage.”
And that’s something Jayden does not take lightly.
“It’s business,” Jayden said with a smile that could only come from a little brother. “We have to do our job. But I l do like the idea of keeping him in check.”
And in the stands there will be a very proud and happy mother in Candace watching her babies get business done this season.
When asked what advice she’d offer to parents who may have siblings playing together, she offered great advice for parents of all stripes.
“If I had to encourage other parents, I’d tell them to love their children and be supportive of their dreams,” Candace said. “And I encourage my children to always play with passion and to know that you’re supporting all of your brothers. Because the moment you stop playing with passion and love for the game, then emotions might set you back. Don’t play with your emotions — play with your passion.”
You can expect the Andings (and the entire Bearcat football team, for that matter) to do just that.
A new wave of Bulldogs is headed to Ruston at the Big Bulldog Auction on September 19th. After a summer of crafting the second round of Bulldog statues, local artists have completed their creations, which will be auctioned off and displayed in front of local businesses.
Ten new Bulldog statues will be displayed at the Dixie Theater and auctioned off to raise funds for the Ruston Cultural District. Local business owners will have the chance to bid on these unique statues during the live auction. The winning bidders will have their Bulldogs installed in front of their businesses, and the statues will be added to The Bulldog Project map.
The Bulldog Project has showcased the talents of many local artists in the Ruston area, offering both residents and visitors an engaging collection of public art to explore. Ruston Main Street Director and Community Coordinator Amy Stegall highlighted the significant impact The Bulldog Project has had on the Ruston community.
“One thing is for sure; we love our Bulldogs around here! The culture that comes with being a college town is as old as our city itself. This project beautifully blends local artists’ work with that culture and history, making it a perfect fit for our Cultural District,” Stegall said. “We’re thrilled that this project offers our community and visitors a fun experience while shining a spotlight on the talented artists in our area. The money we raise will give us the opportunity to create other experiences and public art projects within the Ruston Cultural District.”
These new Bulldogs are being added to the existing collection currently displayed around Ruston. The 2024 wave features statues created by artists including Camellia Bailey, Nick and Hannah Bustamante, Whitney Caskey, Whitney Causey, Melanie Douthit, Bailee Golden, Fairan Hayes, Anna Grace Lee, Leanna Patterson, and Emily Vaccaro. Each artist contributed a unique design, further enriching the vibrant public art scene in Ruston.
Each Bulldog is uniquely designed and crafted by a different local artist, reflecting various creative themes and aspects of Ruston’s culture. Local artist Whitney Causey shared the inspiration behind her Bulldog, titled “Temporal Radiance,” explaining the concept and experiences that led to its creation.
“In my design for The Bulldog Project, bubbles are not merely playful whimsy, but profound vessels of meaning, each encapsulating the seeds of thought and the boundless potential of creation.” Causey said. “Born from the enchanting moments spent with my children, where the simple act of blowing bubbles revealed a universe of possibilities, these delicate spheres symbolize the birth and fleeting existence of ideas themselves. Each bubble invites viewers to consider the fragility and ephemeral nature of each moment and creative spark.”
The 10 new Bulldogs will enhance the Downtown area, strengthening the Cultural District and offering the community a richer experience. Tori Ward Davis, Director of Marketing and Communications at Experience Ruston, highlighted the cultural impact that The Bulldog Project will bring to both residents and visitors.
“Beatification through public art is a win-win for our community. Not only do you get to showcase the talent of local artists through public art installations, but you also enhance the quality of life of your residents and quality of experience for your visitors by making art free and accessible,” Ward said. “Public art projects like murals and The Bulldog Project often become standalone attractions, with visitors seeking out various installations in the area. Public art is an essential element of a thriving cultural scene, which in turn adds to the destination as a whole.”
The Big Bulldog Auction is set for September 19 at the Dixie Theater. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. for a cocktail hour and viewing time, with the auction kicking off at 7 p.m. This event will be the final opportunity to purchase one of the Bulldog statues.
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