Jackson Hammonds “Jack” Mitcham
September 16, 2003 – October 19, 2024
Visitation: Temple Baptist Church Sanctuary, Thursday, October 24, 2024, 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Service: Temple Baptist Church Sanctuary, Friday, October 25, 2024, 10:00 am
Cemetery: Kilpatrick’s Memorial Gardens, Friday, October 25, 2024
By Hanna Singh
For 14 years, Stephanie Young has inspired and motivated her students, deservedly earning her the title of this year’s Lincoln Parish High School Teacher of the Year. Her dedication to fostering creativity and confidence has had a lasting impact on her students and the community.
Attending college at the age of 15, Young didn’t initially see herself emerging from college as a teacher. Despite dreaming of making a difference as an educator, she didn’t always view teaching as a measure of success. When she started college, she envisioned a more prestigious path, such as becoming a professor.
“I have always, on some level, wanted to be a teacher. As a kid in junior high and high school, I spent a regrettable amount of class time daydreaming about what a teacher who cared could do differently to make school better,” Young said. “But I didn’t want to be a teacher! I wanted to grow up and earn lots of money, and I wanted to be ‘impressive’.”
During college, Young entertained the idea of becoming a teacher and making a difference, but for the most part, she suppressed that desire. After graduating with a degree in English, she pursued a career in publishing in California. Despite her professional success, Young couldn’t shake the feeling that she belonged in a classroom, shaping the lives of students in a meaningful and long-lasting way. Driven by this passion, she eventually returned to school and completed an accelerated post-baccalaureate program to earn her teaching certification. Now, she recognizes that teaching is where she was meant to be all along.
In her early years as a teacher, Young worked at a mid-sized public high school in Massachusetts before pursuing a master’s degree in classics. After completing her graduate studies, she returned to teaching and came back to Louisiana. Young spent three years at the Louisiana School for the Deaf, which she described as an amazing environment with an incredible staff. Following the birth of her daughter, Young moved to Ruston and accepted a position at Choudrant High School. For the past four years, she has been making a positive impact there. Young is loving, teaching, and even learning from her students along the way.
“I’m here because I love my students. I love expanding their horizons and guiding them through their last few years of childhood as they transition into full young adults,” Young said. “I love what they teach me, too; they are so full of life and hope and possibility. I listen to them, and they teach me a lot about resilience and perseverance.”
Young has a passion for inspiring students to explore English and the arts. One of the standout contributions she brings to Choudrant High School is her role as the host of the “Poetry Out Loud” competition. This contest challenges students to memorize and perform two or three poems in front of an audience. Over the years, both in Massachusetts and at Choudrant, Young has witnessed a wide variety of students not only competing but also supporting their peers through the experience.
Young recalled a particularly memorable moment from last year, when a student from Ruston High School, Grisham Locke, advanced to the national level of the competition. To celebrate and support him, she hosted a pajama party with snacks, gathering students to cheer him on as they watched the final competition together.
“I could have cried when I saw the crowd of our kids who came out to support Grisham and root for him. We’re not an artsy-fartsy, uppity school, but our kids left talking about poetry,” Young said. “Regular people went home with opinions and fierce disagreements about who said what poem better. Nobody was denigrating anyone for nerding out that night. I could not have been prouder.”
Young’s passion for inspiring students to participate in the Poetry Out Loud competition, along with her dedication to helping them succeed in the classroom, reflects the deep love she has for her job. Although teaching may not have been the prestigious career she once saw herself in, it’s clear that Young pours her whole heart into her work.
Nichole Brigger, her mentor during her first year of teaching, recalls Young’s dedication and enthusiasm from the very start of her career. Even in those early days, Young exhibited the same passion for education that continues to drive her today.
“Stephanie is a creative teacher who always puts her students first. She is knowledgeable and hardworking. Shes also a fantastic co-worker,” Brigger said.”She is helpful and shares her creativity with others. If someone had told me years ago that Stephanie would be teacher of the year, I wouldn’t have been surprised. I’m fortunate to have worked with her.”
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Two Lincoln Parish men were charged last week with “grab-and-go” thefts at area Dollar General stores.
Jeremey D. Hardyway, 28, of Ruston, and Dominque D. Richards, 32, were charged with stealing large amounts of merchandise from a Ouachita Parish business in the same manner other north Louisiana stores experienced recently.
The Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Office said the men entered the West Monroe Dollar General on Glen Acres Road on October 11. They filled two buggies with merchandise then placed the items into two large trash cans and ran away from the store.
On October 13, a similar crime occurred at the Dollar General at 3052 Highway 80 West in Calhoun.
The company’s regional manager told OPSO investigators the suspects had stolen from Dollar General locations in Ruston and Farmerville.
With the assistance of Lincoln Parish investigators, OPSO officials were able to identify the suspects as Hardyway and Richards. The two men were arrested October 15 and booked into the Ouachita Correctional Center on two counts of felony theft.
Bail was set at $10,000 for each man.
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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Courtesy of Cedar Creek School
College Board announced that Cedar Creek School has been named to the 2024 Advanced Placement® Program (AP®) School Honor Roll, earning Gold distinction.
The AP School Honor Roll recognizes schools whose AP programs are delivering results for students while broadening access. Schools can earn this recognition annually based on criteria that reflect a commitment to increasing college-going culture, providing opportunities for students to earn college credit, and maximizing college readiness.
Cedar Creek had 66% of seniors who took at least one AP Exam during high school, 46% of seniors scoring a 3 or higher on at least one AP Exam, and 23% of seniors who took five or more AP Exams.
AP Classes Offered
“Cedar Creek is proud to offer a rigorous college-preparatory curriculum, and our students’ success in AP is evidence of their ability to compete nationally,” Assistant Principal Leeanne Bordelon said. “We celebrate the achievement of these students and the passion and expertise of our faculty—from Pre-K to senior year.”
Cedar Creek School empowers students to pursue college-level studies through the College Board’s Advanced Placement® Program (AP®), offering the opportunity to earn college credit, advanced placement, or both while still in high school.
With a current selection of 14 AP subjects, students can challenge themselves academically, deepen their knowledge, and get a head start on their college journey. This rigorous program not only enhances college readiness but also provides valuable skills for future success.
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On Monday, October 21, 2024, shortly before 9:00 a.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop F began investigating a single-vehicle fatal crash involving a pedestrian on Interstate 20 just east of Louisiana Highway 133. The crash claimed the life of 35-year-old Jared Osbon of West Monroe.
The preliminary investigation revealed that at approximately 10:00 p.m. on Sunday, October 20, 2024, Osbon was struck by an unknown vehicle while walking in the left eastbound lane of Interstate 20. He suffered fatal injuries and died at the scene. The unknown vehicle fled the scene of the crash.
Through investigative means, Troopers determined that Osbon was struck by a 2021 or newer Ford Super Duty (F-250 or F-350). The Ford sustained damages to its left front headlight assembly and grill. If anyone has information about this crash, we urge you to contact Louisiana State Police – Troop F at 318-345-0000. This crash remains under investigation.
The use of any Louisiana interstate by pedestrians, bicycles, or other non-motorized vehicles is prohibited. For areas approved for pedestrian traffic, pedestrians are urged to maintain heightened awareness while walking near the road. Simple precautions such as wearing reflective materials, avoiding distractions, and walking a safe distance from travel lanes while facing oncoming traffic could help prevent many pedestrian-related crashes.
Troopers would also like to take this opportunity to remind drivers of the consequences of hit-and-run driving. Whoever commits the crime of felony hit-and-run driving when death or serious bodily injury is a result can be fined up to five thousand dollars and face up to ten years in prison.
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.
Staff Reports
Louisiana Tech football returns to Joe Aillet Stadium to host UTEP tonight at 7 p.m.
Both teams come into tonight’s matchup looking for their second Conference USA win of the season. The Bulldogs come in at 2-4 (1-2), while the Miners sit at 1-6 (1-3 CUSA).
The game can be heard on the LA Tech Sports Network on 107.5 FM with the pregame show starting at 5:30 p.m. and Malcolm Butler, Teddy Allen and Jerry Byrd providing a call of the game.
Tuesday will mark the 21st meeting all-time between LA Tech and UTEP on the gridiron. The Bulldogs have dominated the series, holding a 16-3-1 advantage. Since the two teams became CUSA foes, LA Tech has won 10 of the 11 matchups.
The series between LA Tech and UTEP is very spread out. The two programs met four consecutive seasons from 1939-42, then again in a season finale matchup in El Paso during the 1991 season. The next matchups came from 2001-04 when the Bulldogs and Miners were league foes in the Western Athletic Conference. The series kicked back up in 2013 when LA Tech joined CUSA.
LA Tech dropped its first CUSA game of the season last Tuesday, falling 33-30 on the road to New Mexico State in double overtime. The Bulldogs will look to get back on track as they return to Joe Aillet Stadium, where they are 2-1 this season.
The Bulldog offense has found more of a rhythm as of late, combining for 78 points over the last two games after scoring a combined 75 points during the first four games. LA Tech’s 48 points versus Middle Tennessee was the most in a CUSA game since Nov. 9, 2019 (ninth most in a CUSA game in program history).
The LA Tech defense currently ranks first in CUSA and 30th in the country in total defense, allowing just 316.3 yards per game. The Bulldogs also rank first in the league and 24th in the nation in rushing defense, allowing just 104.2 yards on the ground.
Wide receiver Tru Edwards recorded his third 100+ yard game of the season and his second straight after finishing with a career-high nine catches for 110 yards against the Aggies. Edwards logged two touchdowns catches, marking his first multi receiving touchdown game of his career. He leads the team with 32 grabs for 445 yards and four scores.
The Miners (1-6, 1-3 CUSA) enter Tuesday night’s game coming off the heels of their first win of the season, which also marked their first CUSA win. UTEP was able to pull out a 30-21 win over FIU in front of their hometown fans. The win marked first year head coach Scotty Walden’s first victory as a Miner.
Walden, who comes from Austin Peay, brought many of his former players with him to run his offense. UTEP’s top quarterback, running back and wide receiver all hail from Austin Peay. They are leading the Miners to 18 points per game, while giving up 32.57 per outing. They are averaging 330.3 yards per game, while giving up 421.0.
Skyler Locklear commands the offense and has gone 91-of-144 through the air for 953 yards and four touchdowns. Cade McConnell has also seen time under center, passing for 540 yards and four scores. Kenny Odom leads the team with 510 yards and four scores on 22 receptions. Kam Thomas leads the team with 38 grabs for 375 yards and one score. Jevon Jackson is the team’s top rusher, logging 387 yards and one score on 91 attempts.
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 Lincoln Parish Journal wants to thank Karl Malone Toyota, Northern Louisiana Medical Center and Johnson Physical Therapy for their title and presenting sponsorships of this year’s College Football Pick’em contest.
We also want to thank Dubach Air and Heat, Ginn’s Autobody, Hart Designs, Dawghouse Sports Grill, Pattons Western Wear, Tanyard Creek, Stows Moving Co., Ruston Athletic Supply, Hot Rod’s BBQ, and Charlie’s Carpet Cleaning for their Pick’em Partnerships within the contest.
We encourage all of our readers to utilize the services and products provided by our advertisers!
_______________________________
Are you ready for some football?!?
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!
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The Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s Department arrested a Grambling man last Thursday after drugs were found in his vehicle on a traffic stop.
Zebediah Eli Lovell, 39, was stopped for traffic violation about 7:30 p.m. Thursday night. When deputies approached the vehicle, a faint odor of burnt marijuana was detected. Deputies could see plastic baggies and loose suspected marijuana throughout the passenger compartment of the vehicle.
A search was conducted and a tin container was found in the center console containing suspected ecstasy tablets, and Ambien, a Schedule IV controlled substance.
Lovell was arrested and booked at the Lincoln Parish Detention Center for possession of ecstasy, a Schedule I controlled substance; possession of Ambien, possession of drug paraphernalia; and improper lights.
Lovell’s bail was set at $20,000.
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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Lincoln Parish Swim Results – 2024 High School Meet 6 YMCA Shreveport
Cross Country Results
As an added bonus this year, fans can submit pictures of players, and a select few will be published each week along with the scores.
To submit pics, please email lpjscoreboard@gmail.com with your pictures by Sunday nights at 8 p.m.
The scoreboard will run every Tuesday and have the previous week’s scores and highlights.
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 announces, weather permitting, that E. Texas Ave. between Myrtle St. and S. Farmerville St. will be closed to through traffic Wednesday, October 23, 2024, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
This closure is necessary to allow for a tree removal.
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.
After seeing its 20-game winning streak snapped by Neville Friday, Ruston High fell out of first place in the Class 5A poll for the first time this season.
The Bearcats dropped two spots to No. 3 behind undefeated Edna Karr and Neville. Ruston finished just one point ahead of Acadiana, a team it defeated in the season opener.
Ruston had an opportunity to tie the school win streak record of 21, but came up short in a 26-21 loss to the Tigers at Hoss Garrett Stadium.
RHS will travel to face undefeated and No. 6 Alexandria this Friday.
Class 5A
School 1st rec pts prev
1. Karr (9) 6-0 139 2
2. Neville (3) 7-0 131 T4
3. Ruston 6-1 115 1
4. Acadiana 6-1 114 3
5. Catholic-Baton Rouge 5-1 97 T4
6. Alexandria
7. Zachary 5-1 73 7
8. Archbishop Rummel 6-1 52 8
9. John Curtis 4-2 39 9
10. Airline
(tie) Mandeville 7-0 29 NR
Others receiving votes: Central 12, Dutchtown 5, Hahnville 3, Jesuit 3, St. Paul’s 3, Brother Martin 2, West Monroe 2, Covington 1, Parkway 1, St. Augustine 1, Southside 1, Terrebonne 1.
Class 4A
School 1st rec pts prev
1. Teurlings Catholic (12) 7-0 144 1
2. North DeSoto 5-2 121 2
(tie) Lutcher
4. St. Thomas More 4-3 99 5
5. E.D. White 5-2 96 3
6. Archbishop Shaw 5-2 94 6
7. Cecilia
8. Opelousas 3-3 58 8
9. Franklin Parish 6-1 47 9
10. Franklinton 6-1 30 10
Others receiving votes: Westgate 22, Plaquemine 11, Iowa 9, Lakeshore 9, Vandebilt Catholic 3, Belle Chasse 1, Istrouma 1, Leesville 1, Northwood-Shreveport 1, West Feliciana 1, West Ouachita 1.
Class 3A
School 1st rec pts prev
1. University (12) 6-1 144 1
2. Bunkie
3. Jennings 6-1 115 3
4. St. James 4-2 104 4
5. Northwest 5-2 87 5
6. John F. Kennedy 3-4 82 6
7. Amite 5-2 62 7
8. Jewel Sumner 6-1 59 8
9. Sterlington 4-3 43 T10
10. Madison Prep 4-3 40 T10
Others receiving votes: Jena 14, Bastrop 13, De La Salle 13, Erath 12, Iota 9, Kaplan 4, Carroll 1, Haynes Academy 1, Pine 1, Westlake 1.
Class 2A
School 1st rec pts prev
1. Newman (8) 5-0 134 1
2. Calvary Baptist (1) 5-2 129 2
3. Dunham (2) 7-0 118 T3
4. Oak Grove (1) 5-1 117 T3
5. Ouachita Christian 7-0 95 5
6. Catholic-New Iberia 6-1 83 6
7. Episcopal-Baton Rouge 6-1 58 9
8. Notre Dame 4-3 53 NR
9. Mangham 5-2 51 7
10. Lafayette Chrisitan 2-5 36 8
Others receiving votes: Union Parish 23, Ferriday 14, Pope John Paul 7, Welsh 9, Lafayette Renaissance Charter 4, DeQuincy 3, D’Arbonne Woods 1, Northlake Christian 1.
Class 1A
School 1st rec pts prev
1. Vermilion Catholic (12) 7-0 144 1
2. Haynesville 7-0 130 2
3. Ascension Catholic 5-1 112 3
4. Riverside 4-2 101 5
5. Catholic-Pointe Coupee 7-0 83 6
6. Covenant Christian 7-0 81 7
7. Southern Lab 3-3 64 4
8. Kentwood 5-2 60 8
9. St. Martin’s 4-2 39 9
10. St. Edmund 7-0 35 NR
Others receiving votes: Jeanerette 25, Ascension Episcopal 7, Logansport 4, St. Frederick 3, Central Catholic-Morgan City 1, Delta Charter 1, General Trass 1, Glenbrook Academy 1, Hamilton Christian 1, North Iberville 1, Westminster-Opelousas 1.
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.
Courtesy of LA Tech Athletic Communications
In a 23-team filled with 12 top 25 teams, including six of the top seven, the seventh-ranked Louisiana Tech bowling team finished in seventh at Destination Orlando hosted by No. 18 Sacred Heart at AMF Sky Lanes in Orlando, Florida, on Sunday.
“We are still working through some things as a team, but I am happy with our progress,” said head coach Matt Nantais. “Going 9-4 and not being at our best is a good sign of what’s to come. I am proud of the fight in this team and the never-give-up attitude. We will get back and prepare for our next event in 2 weeks.”
Louisiana Tech (9-4) entered the day in eighth and would stay there heading into bracket play after rolling a 962 in the final Baker set to beat Wright State.
The Bulldogs would have a chance to bowl for fourth place if they could get by No. 11 Stephen F. Austin. The first three games would all be decided by six pins or less. The Ladyjacks won the first two 170-167 and 194-188. Tech found their mark in game three to pull within one at 223-217.
The closest game the remainder of the way went to the Bulldogs to tie it up at 205-191. LA Tech shot 218 in the fifth, but SFA rolled 247. The Ladyjacks would take the sixth 234-188 to win the match 4-2.
Tech still had a chance to move up a spot against the tournament host. The Bulldogs swept the Pioneers (181-160, 214-194, 255-148, 234-160) to finish 9-4 on the weekend.
Louisiana Tech will bowl one five game Baker set against Wright State before being placed in bracket play on the final day of Destination Orlando.
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.
Courtesy of GSU Athletic Communications
The Grambling State University football team had two student-athletes earn Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) weekly honors on Monday afternoon. Linebacker Andrew Jones was named the SWAC Defensive Player of the Week while Johnny Schifano landed Special Teams Player of the Week recognition.
Jones, the SWAC’s leading tackler, was once again a dominant force for the GSU defense. He tallied a game-high 12 total tackles with 4.5 for loss in the Tigers’ 31-21, Homecoming Day win over Arkansas-Pine Bl;uff. The losses dropped ball carriers 23 yards, and they included a half-sack as well as a fourth-down stop that switched possession to the GSU offense.
Schifano had a big day punting the ball for Grambling, flipping the field and pinning UAPB deep in its own territory on Saturday. He punted the ball six times for an average of 42.0 yards per punt, with a long of 60 yards. He placed five punts inside the The Golden Lions’ 15-yard line with two punts being downed at the 1-yard line and one being downed at the 5-yard line.
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.
Barbara Pace
October 24, 1935 – October 16, 2024
Service: Liberty Baptist Church Cemetery- Linville, Thursday, October 24, 2024, 11:00 am Cemetery: Liberty Baptist Church Cemetery- Linville, Thursday, October 24, 2024, 11:00 am
Two pedestrians have died in separate traffic crashes in Ruston in less than three days.
Jack Mitcham, 21, of Ruston, was struck by a vehicle on the South Service Road just inside the Ruston city limits about 2:15 a.m. on Saturday morning, October 19. Mitcham later passed away in a medical facility.
Abby Sterling, 20, of Shreveport was arrested for first degree vehicular negligent injuring.
That charge is expected to be upgraded to vehicular homicide with Mitcham’s passing, according to Ruston Police.
Officers responded to the scene early Saturday to find two men lying on the north shoulder of the 2300 block of South Service Road. A Nissan Altima stopped in the left lane displayed damage to its front end and windshield.
Ruston Ambulance Service responded and transported the Mitcham and Hahn Bridges, 20, of Monroe, to the Northern Louisiana Medical Center. Bridges’s condition was not available at publication time.
According to an officer’s report, when Sterling was interviewed, she said she was traveling east on the Service Road and the two men were in the travel lane. She said she tried to stop but did not have enough space to stop.
An odor of alcoholic beverages was detected on Sterling and based on her poor performance on field sobriety tests, she was arrested.
A breath test at the Lincoln Parish Detention Center showed Sterling’s blood alcohol content was .169g%, more than twice Louisiana’s legal limit.
The crash follows the death of a New Orleans man on Cooktown Road last Wednesday.
Luis Alberto Esparza Rios, 41, was struck by several vehicles as he tried to cross Cooktown Road near the Super 8 Motel about 9:20 p.m. on October 16.
Ruston Police continue to investigate both crashes.
Funeral arrangements for Mitcham are pending.
After seeing its 20-game winning streak snapped by Neville Friday, Ruston High fell out of first place in the Class 5A poll for the first time this season.
The Bearcats dropped two spots to No. 3 behind undefeated Edna Karr and Neville. Ruston finished just one point ahead of Acadiana, a team it defeated in the season opener.
Ruston had an opportunity to tie the school win streak record of 21, but came up short in a 26-21 loss to the Tigers at Hoss Garrett Stadium.
RHS will travel to face undefeated and No. 6 Alexandria this Friday.
Class 5A
School 1st rec pts prev
1. Karr (9) 6-0 139 2
2. Neville (3) 7-0 131 T4
3. Ruston 6-1 115 1
4. Acadiana 6-1 114 3
5. Catholic-Baton Rouge 5-1 97 T4
6. Alexandria
7. Zachary 5-1 73 7
8. Archbishop Rummel 6-1 52 8
9. John Curtis 4-2 39 9
10. Airline
(tie) Mandeville 7-0 29 NR
Others receiving votes: Central 12, Dutchtown 5, Hahnville 3, Jesuit 3, St. Paul’s 3, Brother Martin 2, West Monroe 2, Covington 1, Parkway 1, St. Augustine 1, Southside 1, Terrebonne 1.
Class 4A
School 1st rec pts prev
1. Teurlings Catholic (12) 7-0 144 1
2. North DeSoto 5-2 121 2
(tie) Lutcher
4. St. Thomas More 4-3 99 5
5. E.D. White 5-2 96 3
6. Archbishop Shaw 5-2 94 6
7. Cecilia
8. Opelousas 3-3 58 8
9. Franklin Parish 6-1 47 9
10. Franklinton 6-1 30 10
Others receiving votes: Westgate 22, Plaquemine 11, Iowa 9, Lakeshore 9, Vandebilt Catholic 3, Belle Chasse 1, Istrouma 1, Leesville 1, Northwood-Shreveport 1, West Feliciana 1, West Ouachita 1.
Class 3A
School 1st rec pts prev
1. University (12) 6-1 144 1
2. Bunkie
3. Jennings 6-1 115 3
4. St. James 4-2 104 4
5. Northwest 5-2 87 5
6. John F. Kennedy 3-4 82 6
7. Amite 5-2 62 7
8. Jewel Sumner 6-1 59 8
9. Sterlington 4-3 43 T10
10. Madison Prep 4-3 40 T10
Others receiving votes: Jena 14, Bastrop 13, De La Salle 13, Erath 12, Iota 9, Kaplan 4, Carroll 1, Haynes Academy 1, Pine 1, Westlake 1.
Class 2A
School 1st rec pts prev
1. Newman (8) 5-0 134 1
2. Calvary Baptist (1) 5-2 129 2
3. Dunham (2) 7-0 118 T3
4. Oak Grove (1) 5-1 117 T3
5. Ouachita Christian 7-0 95 5
6. Catholic-New Iberia 6-1 83 6
7. Episcopal-Baton Rouge 6-1 58 9
8. Notre Dame 4-3 53 NR
9. Mangham 5-2 51 7
10. Lafayette Chrisitan 2-5 36 8
Others receiving votes: Union Parish 23, Ferriday 14, Pope John Paul 7, Welsh 9, Lafayette Renaissance Charter 4, DeQuincy 3, D’Arbonne Woods 1, Northlake Christian 1.
Class 1A
School 1st rec pts prev
1. Vermilion Catholic (12) 7-0 144 1
2. Haynesville 7-0 130 2
3. Ascension Catholic 5-1 112 3
4. Riverside 4-2 101 5
5. Catholic-Pointe Coupee 7-0 83 6
6. Covenant Christian 7-0 81 7
7. Southern Lab 3-3 64 4
8. Kentwood 5-2 60 8
9. St. Martin’s 4-2 39 9
10. St. Edmund 7-0 35 NR
Others receiving votes: Jeanerette 25, Ascension Episcopal 7, Logansport 4, St. Frederick 3, Central Catholic-Morgan City 1, Delta Charter 1, General Trass 1, Glenbrook Academy 1, Hamilton Christian 1, North Iberville 1, Westminster-Opelousas 1.
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.
Courtesy of LA Tech University Communications
In response to the critical shortage of highly trained professionals in cybersecurity, the National Science Foundation (NSF) has awarded Louisiana Tech University a $4.06 million renewal grant through their CyberCorps®: Scholarship for Service (SFS) program.
The award will fund 36 students, undergraduate and graduate, with tuition, professional development travel, and a sizeable monthly stipend to students pursuing degrees in computer science or cyber engineering with a cybersecurity focus in the College of Engineering and Science at Louisiana Tech.
Upon completion of the degree and in return, participants are expected to secure a position with the government (federal/state/local/tribal) national labs to defend the nation in cyberspace.
“It was really a team effort to get something this large off the ground,” said Dr. Brad Glisson, associate professor of computer science. “To even be considered to apply for this award, Louisiana Tech must have a Center for Academic Excellence (CAE) designation, to which we are in two areas: cyber defense and research. Since this was a renewal, we could point to our previous successful federal placements to increase our chances to be awarded again.”
“The great effort of Dr. Glisson and his outstanding team is indicative of our student-focused collaborative environment,” said Dr. Collin Wick, dean of the College of Engineering and Science. “We are proud to be one of only two institutions in the state to offer students this opportunity.”
Louisiana Tech is among an elite list of 100 higher education institutions in the nation that run this program. Louisiana Tech’s CyberCorps® is a hybrid program that offers students the opportunity to pursue a bachelor’s degree or continue to complete a master’s degree.
Ruston Police have released the name of the pedestrian killed in a crash on Cooktown Road last week.
Luis Alberto Esparza Rios, 41, of New Orleans, was struck by several vehicles as he tried to cross Cooktown Road about 9:20 p.m. on Wednesday, October 16.
According to police, Rios was staying at the Super 8 motel and apparently tried to cross from the west side of the street but was struck by oncoming traffic.
Responding officers found Rios in the inner northbound lane of Cooktown Road. The location is a busy commercial area populated by restaurants and a convenience store.
The investigation of the accident is continuing by the Ruston Police Department.
The Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s Office arrested Ruston man on October 15 after he was stopped for suspicious behavior at a public dump site and drugs were found in his vehicle.
Jared Wayne Taunton, 36, was arrested on drug and scavenging charges about 2:30 a.m. after a deputy saw him stopped near a dumpster that was on fire.
A deputy on patrol spotted a dumpster on fire at a trash collection site on La. Highway 821 about 2:00 a.m. As the deputy stopped to investigate and attempted to speak to the driver of the vehicle, the vehicle left. The deputy attempted to put out the fire with an extinguisher, but it had grown too large, and firefighters were called to the scene
The deputy circulated the area looking for the vehicle and spotted it on Stable Road. Taunton, the driver, was stopped. He said he did not see the fire nor the deputy. The deputy noted in a report that Taunton appeared extremely nervous. A records check showed Taunton had been arrested multiple times for drug offenses.
A search of Taunton’s vehicle located the drug alprazolam, a digital scale, and suspected drug paraphernalia. Taunton was arrested and questioned. He admitted he was at the dump site earlier for the purpose of scavenging in the dumpsters.
Taunton was booked for possession of a legend drug, possession of drug paraphernalia, and scavenging. Bail was set at $5,000.
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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GET READY TO SHOP!
Buy Tickets HERE!
Join us from November 7th-9th for the 34th annual Holidays in CedarTown! The Ruston Civic Center will be transformed into a holiday shopping haven for all our local residents. Organized by the Cedar Creek School Parent Club, this event will bring a vibrant marketplace to North Louisiana, perfect for jump starting your holiday shopping.
Explore over thirty booths filled with holiday treasures that are sure to delight everyone on your list. We’re excited to offer a unique shopping experience featuring vendors from across the South, including Sugarplums & The Vintage Marketplace, North Forty Woodworks, Goldie Boutique, The Fashion of Ruston, Garden Baby, Salt & Light Designs, The Tigers Den, The Dance Wearhouse, Birch Family, Mid-South Pecans, Crossroads Boutique, Patton’s Western Wear, Red River Leather, Urban Collective, Patton’s Downtown, The Collective, Bandette Bands, Simply Chic Boutique, Give Me 3, Peach Lemonade, Frames-A-Plenty, Bayou Bowties, National Jewelry, Breck & Vale Clothing Co., MeMe’s Boutique, LOA Clothing, The Golden Era Vintage & Antique Jewelry, Cane River Soap Company, Sandy + Rizzo, Different Strokes, Jewelry by Laura Glen, Art by Sarah-Katherine Semon, The Neighboring Co., and more!
Our three-day market kicks off with the Holidays After Hours Preview Party on Thursday, November 7th, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Sponsored by Origin Bank, Southern States Equipment, and Hood Companies, this exclusive event includes complimentary appetizers and drinks from local favorites like Crumbs Catering, Iron Cactus, Uptown Downtown, Ponchatoulas, Beau Vines, Newk’s Eatery, and Devine Wine. Tickets are $30 and can be purchased in advance at Cedar Creek School or online via by CLICKING HERE. Limited tickets will be available at the door, and last year’s event sold out, so we recommend buying your tickets early!
On Friday, November 8th, enjoy shopping from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Support your local teams—fans wearing team spirit gear can get a free general admission ticket from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. General admission tickets are $5 and can be purchased at the door or online.
Don’t miss Saturday’s Santa’s Cookie Crew event from 9:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., sponsored by Origin Bank and Legacy Pediatrics. Kids will love this fun-filled morning of cookies, writing letters to Santa, and taking photos with the big man himself. Admission is $10 per child and can be purchased online; limited tickets will be available at the door. Shopping will continue until 2:00 p.m. with general admission tickets available for $5.
As you enter the marketplace, be sure to visit the raffle table for your chance to win a $1,000 gift certificate to a locally owned business of your choice! Sponsored by Durrett Law and Title, raffle tickets are $10 each or three for $20, available online or at the event. The winner will be drawn at the end of the market on Saturday, and you do not need to be present to win.
We look forward to welcoming you to North Louisiana’s premier holiday shopping event from November 7th to 9th at the Ruston Civic Center. Holidays in CedarTown is made possible by our amazing vendors, shoppers, and sponsors: Origin Bank, Southern States Equipment, Hood Companies, Dr. & Mrs. John Maxwell, Edward Jones Investments – Andy Halbrook, Century Next Bank, Smurfit WestRock, S & E Fabrication, Marbury Building Corp., Wendy & Kenny Merchant, Legacy Pediatrics, Mrs. Lynda Steed, Durrett Law & Title, Louisiana Orchard Realty, Caples & Robinson Orthodontics, Walpole Tire, Connie & Ayres Bradford, Trey’s Landscape Services, Bash Booth & Enviro Rentals. Merry Christmas and happy shopping!
Holidays in CedarTown is a project of the Cedar Creek School Parent Club. For sponsorship, merchant, or ticket information, contact Cedar Creek School or advancement@cedarcreekschool.org.
2400 Cedar Creek Drive, Ruston, Louisiana 71270
318.255.7707 – www.cedarcreekschool.org
Cedar Creek School practices a nondiscriminatory policy whereby it does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin in the administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, and athletic and other school-administered programs.
A Ruston man was arrested October 15 after he was discharged from a hospital but allegedly refused to leave the premises.
Ruston Police responded to the Northern Louisiana Medical Center about 2:00 p.m. where they were told a man was harassing the nurses and causing a disturbance. According to an officer’s report, Antonio Spivey had been discharged from the hospital and directed to leave several times, but he refused. He was reportedly yelling, harassing, and annoying the staff.
Police issued Spivey a citation for disturbing the peace and his brother said he would take Spivey away.
Spivey entered his brother’s vehicle but then got out, walking onto the hospital property after being forbidden. He was then arrested for disturbing the peace and remaining on premises after being forbidden.
Spivey has been arrested in Lincoln Parish several times this year.
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.
Follow the Lincoln Parish Journal each morning at 6:55 right to your inbox. It’s FREE! Just CLICK HERE to sign up.
By Kyle Roberts
BENTON, La. — Ruston High School wrapped up the 2024 cross country regular season with a first place finish for the girls and second place for the boys at the Benton High Classic.
“It was a good day for us in our last meet before championship season,” Ruston High head coach Dustin Cochran said. “The girls had a plethora of bad breaks in our last meet, and they bounced back in a big way this weekend.”
The Lady Bearcats (1+2+6+7+13=29) finished first with an average time of 19 minutes, 2 seconds per runner on the three-mile track.
Freshman Eden Dawsey led the girls with a first place finish overall at 18:12.60, while junior Hallie Hebert was right behind in second at 18:15.30.
Senior Parker Nations finished sixth overall at 19:02.00, while senior Sydney Owens took seventh at 19:17.60. Junior Maddy Parkman took 13th at 20:24.10 to round out Ruston’s scoring.
“Eden and Hallie are on an absolute tear out front for us,” Cochran said. “Traditionally, Ruston has been a top program in Louisiana for a long time, and there are only a couple of Bearcats who have ever run faster than them. It really speaks to what they’ve been doing and how consistent they’ve been all season. I think coaches can talk all they want about what we think needs to happen, but it’s ultimately the athletes that really set the standard for everyone, and these two are setting a high one for this program.
“Parker and Sydney are getting better and better and their senior leadership really helps us out. Both of these girls have been all state runners in cross country and track and as they get healthier and sharper for the big races we could become a scary team.”
Cochran added how happy he was with Parkman’s finish for the team after having a long battle with injuries.
“Maddy missed her entire sophomore season and half of this one,” Cochran said. “It’s very hard to keep looking long term for anyone, but Maddy has battled and battled. I’ve seen a lot people give up when things don’t go their way. I’ve only seen Maddy get stronger. I think it speaks a ton about the way she was raised and how much she cares about the other girls on the team. I don’t hear excuses from Maddy. We only talk solutions. She’s the type of athlete every coach hopes walks through the door.”
On the boys’ side, the Bearcats took second (8+9+12+14+20=63) with junior Taylor Huddleston finishing eighth officially at 15:38.10, with junior Al-Amin Wilson right behind at ninth with a 15:39.70 finish.
Junior Joshua Daulton took 12th at 16:02.70, while junior Luke Braswell finished 14th at 16:16.70.
Freshman Billy Rufleth finished 20th overall at 16:46.70 to round out boys’ scoring.
“The boys team is continuing to go out and get better and better,” Coachran said. “They’ve been consistent and should be in line for a big race soon. We found out a lot about where we’re at this weekend. They had a race plan that we haven’t followed all year, but we needed to try it to see exactly where we were at. For two-third’s of the race we looked really strong. With the right intensity and some smart training, this team is going to be very good by the state meet and running lane. I really enjoy this team. They really like each other and they compete really hard.
In the junior varsity races, junior Myles Head-Carpenter took first overall at 15:06.70 for the boys and sophomore Madison Morris took first at 19:52.70 for the girls.
“Myles running 15:06 by himself in the JV race shows just how fit these guys are,” Cochran said.
Ruston will run in the North Louisiana Championships on Thursday, Oct. 31.