Football season is over! It’s been a fun few months of Friday night lights and road trips and celebrating these athletes on and off the field.
So now what? Well friends….I have a suggestion. While Ruston High School has a special football program full of special student athletes, they also have lots of other sports and teams and groups doing amazing things and those kids would love your support!
The whole school is full of special kids working hard every day to excel and make the world a better place. Athletes in every sport dedicate so much time to their teams to represent Ruston well. Groups of students help serve in the cafeterias and at events in the elementary schools. RHS students volunteer with Med Camps and Buddy Ball.
These kids pour into our community in such meaningful ways, wouldn’t it be great if we could return the favor?
The Ruston High School facebook page does an excellent job of posting about upcoming sports and events as well as highlighting all the amazing things students are accomplishing every day.
It’s currently soccer and basketball season, so get your family and friends and go catch some more Bearcats in action!
Courtesy of the GSU Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta
World AIDS Day, designated on December 1st, is an international day dedicated to raising awareness of the AIDS pandemic.
The International Awareness and Involvement Committee of Grambling Alumnae Chapter, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated presented their observance program of World AIDS Day on the campus of Grambling State University on Monday, December 2nd. The observance program themed “Put People First” emphasized advancing progress towards the shared goal of ending AIDS by 2030 and thinking of solutions from the point of view of those most affected.
Dr. Martin Ayim, well known author of “Communicable Diseases for School and Community Health Promotion: Global Health Prospective” and GSU professor, presented an in-depth presentation and discussion on the presence of HIV still being a major health issue.
Dr. Ayim made the presentation to an auditorium of community and chapter members, students and student organizations such as the Delta Iota Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc, and the International Student Organization.
Chapter member Patrice Outley also presented the availability of community resources.
A red ribbon pin was received representing the iconic red ribbon as a symbol of support and solidarity for anyone who has been affected by HIV and AIDS.
A lighted candle also remained lit throughout the program representing the opportunity to honor those who dedicated their lives to helping people living with and affected by HIV and who continue to mobilize our communities in solidarity.
Members of our congregation are taking the 31 days of December to read the 31 chapters of Proverbs. It’s a simple, laudable concept, and I accepted the idea willingly – but, alas, I’ve fallen behind.
I know. It’s not that hard a program to follow, and I’m peeved with myself, but …
I’ve worked out a new plan, and by Dec. 31, I should have, indeed, read all 31 chapters.
The thing is, though, just reading through all these verses isn’t cementing the ideas into my brain – unless it’s one of the verses that most of us have heard all our lives. Like, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight” (Proverbs 3:5-6). Or, “A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger” (Proverbs 15:1).
It’s just that there are so many good thoughts, one after the other, that soon sensory overload looms on the horizon. I’ve taken to reading the verses out loud – and I’m really enjoying that – and now the meaning seems to more actively engage with my brain.
So that has led me to another plan. January has 31 days, too, and I’m planning to re-read Proverbs, one chapter a day – this time with the aid of a good commentary. I think I’ll come out on the other side a wiser woman. I mean, who wouldn’t become more astute after reading such a collection of wise sayings, plus good advice for daily living? Twice in two months.
I’d like to invite you on this journey with me in January. It would bring me joy to know that some of my readers are looking at the exact same scripture each day as I am. Also, as the minister at my congregation said, we will probably see truths from what we read mirrored in our lives as we go forward into the near future. Maybe I’ll write another column to report whatever transpires in that realm.
Meanwhile, here are a couple of things about Proverbs that I have discovered since beginning my readings. The first few chapters don’t follow the form of the rest of the book. Most of Proverbs is a collection of short, two-lined sayings, many times with the second line contrasting with, explaining or amplifying the first. Not the first few chapters, however. These are written more in prose style, concentrating on wisdom with many warnings against adultery. I was surprised by this.
Yes, confession time: I have never read Proverbs in its entirely in my entire life. I haven’t read all of the Psalms either. And I want to.
So … I have another idea. Starting in February, I’m planning to read one psalm a day, and in exactly five months – on June 30 – I will have read the entire book. You’re invited to join me in this pursuit as well.
Meanwhile, let’s close with some of the proverbs that remain closest to my heart after my recent rediscovering of them. You probably know and love them, too.
“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it” – Proverbs 4:23.
“Anxiety weighs down the heart, but a kind word cheers it up” – Proverbs 12:25.
“A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity” – Proverbs 17:17.
“Even fools are thought wise if they keep silent, and discerning if they hold their tongues” – Proverbs 17:28.
“Blessed are those who find wisdom, those who gain understanding” – Proverbs 3:13.
As I continue this pathway through Proverbs and beyond, I hope you’ll join me in embracing the wisdom these verses offer. In the New Year, let’s search for the insight that speaks to our hearts and leads us toward lives of greater understanding and peace.
After all, as Proverbs 2:6 says, “For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.” May we all seek and find those treasures in the days ahead.
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Sallie Rose Hollis lives in Ruston and retired from Louisiana Tech as an associate professor of journalism and the assistant director of the News Bureau. She can be contacted at sallierose@mail.com.
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Louisiana Tech’s Zach Zimos was one of nine student-athletes that received the Conference USA Fall Spirit of Service Award, announced by the league office Friday.
The award honors student-athletes with significant community service endeavors, good academic standing, and participation in their respective sport.
Zimos, a starting linebacker for the Bulldogs, led the team in total tackles with 74 including 6.0 tackles-for-loss and five quarterback hurries. The Honorable Mention All-Conference USA selection started 11 of the 12 games for LA Tech, recording double-digit tackles in three games including a season-high 14 versus Tulsa.
The Sugar Land, Texas native graduated with his Master of Business Administration this past summer with a 3.50 cumulative GPA. Last year, he was a CUSA Commissioner’s Honor Roll recipient and CUSA Academic Medalist.
Zimos has also logged several hours of community services including projects with Habitat for Humanity, Boys and Girls Club, Hometown Heroes visits, Dogs with a Cause, and elementary drop-off visits.
The Spirit of Service Award is presented three times through the season with Friday’s honor representing the fall sports (football, soccer, volleyball, and men’s and women’s cross country). Recipients are nominated by their institutions.
Nancy Gale Monk, born December 30, 1944, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on December 22, 2024. Born and raised in Saline, Louisiana, Nancy grew up cherishing small-town life. She attended Northwestern State University and then went to work for the Bienville Parish School Board where she retired after many years of service.
In 1990, Nancy married the love of her life, George Monk. They made their home in Bernice, Louisiana and their 35-year union was filled with dancing, traveling and a deep devotion to their blended family. A woman of faith, Nancy attended First Baptist Church of Bernice, where her Christian values were evident in the way she loved and cared for others.
Nancy’s life was defined by her fierce love for her family. She found immense joy in spending time with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She cherished life’s simple pleasures – whether it was savoring her favorite Coke Icee or a Sonic Blended Float to snagging bargain items so her kids and grandkids could “shop her stash”- and embraced every moment with warmth and grace.
Nancy is preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Kristina Sullivan; grandson, Joshua Roberts; great-granddaughter, Kinley Sanders; sisters Peggy Wise and Laura Collinsworth; her parents, Lonnie and Dossie Cheatwood, and her late husband Ronald Sullivan Sr.
She is survived by her devoted husband, George Monk; her children, Ronigale Davis, Ronald Sullivan Jr. (Karen), Bradley Scott Sullivan, Melony Jones (Michael), Georgette Monk, Matthew Monk (Tonya); her siblings, Vicki Cheatwood, Lonnette Golden, and Lonnie Cheatwood (Donna); 19 grandchildren and 27 great-grandchildren, and countless nieces and nephews who will carry forward her legacy of love and kindness.
Nancy’s life was a testament to the power of family, faith, and unconditional love. She will be dearly missed but forever remembered in the hearts of all who knew her.
A celebration of her life will be held at First Baptist Church of Bernice at 10:00 AM, Friday, December 27, 2024 with Rev. Larry Carr and Rev. Michael McIntosh officiating. Interment will follow in Pisgah Cemetery in Bernice under the direction of Owens Memorial Chapel Funeral Home of Ruston. Visitation will be Thursday, December 26th, 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the church
Pallbearers for Mrs. Nancy’s service are Michael Wise, Michael Jones, Kevin Crawford, Clyde Morrow, Joey Brazeel and Barry Sullivan. Honorary Pallbearers will be her grandsons: Bradley Sullivan, Dakota Davis, Wesley Sullivan, Ronald Sullivan, Garth Sullivan, Kyle Sullivan, James Roberts, London Ishee, and Walker Perez.
Terrilyn Susan Griffin passed away on December 18, 2024, at the age of 68, at Northern Louisiana Medical Center in Ruston, LA, following a long battle with multiple illnesses. Terrilyn was born on April 5, 1956 in Alexandria, LA to Anita and James Griffin.
Terri will be remembered for her love and compassion for her family as well as her tremendous love and compassion for animals. She is preceded in death by her parents, James and Anita Griffin, brother Wayne Griffin, and sister Dianne Griffin, in a realm where love and joy will forever flourish.
Left to cherish her memory are her beloved niece, Susan Mobley (Nick), and great-nieces and nephews Callie Morgan (Chase), Cole Yelverton, Blaine, Broox, and Brant Mobley, and two great-great-nieces, Cameron and Carlee Morgan. She is also survived by lifelong friend Charlotte, special friends Jimmy Robinson and Sondra Marshall, and her faithful fur baby, Sissy Girl, of 18 1/2 years.
A private service will be held at a later date for close family and friends.
In lieu of flowers the family ask to please make a donation to help with funeral expenses.
Congratulations to all the men and women at the Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s Office who earned awards this year.
These were handed out Wednesday night during the LPSO Christmas party.
“We’re are extremely proud of this years outstanding service and deputy of the year award recipients,” said LPSO Deputy Chief Landon Hunt. “These deputies have gone above and beyond in their duties and service to our citizens, and they exemplify what it means to put others first daily.”
The Lincoln Parish Journal salutes these men and women for their bravery, hard work and dedication to our parish and its residents.
Outstanding Service Awards (Supervisor Nominated)
Division: Deputy Award Winner
Juvenile: Will Sullivan
CID: Jacob McHenry
Patrol: Jacob Grant
Dispatch: Nicky Barnette
Narcotics: Tyler Edmiston
LPDC Security: Alex Redmond
LPDC Admin: Tracey McNeil
Civil: Dennis Penuell
Criminal Admin: James Colvin
Stats – Civil Paper: Stephen Quinnelly
Stats – Criminal Paper: Sarah Campbell
Stats – DWI Arrests: James Ayers
Stat – Drug Arrests: Dereck Johnston
Deputy of the Year (Peer Nominated)
Juvenile (tie): Mark Denton, Edward Faile, Mitch Jenkins
On Saturday, December 21, 2024, shortly after 5:00 p.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop F began investigating a single-vehicle fatal crash on U.S. Highway 165 near Crestview Drive. The crash claimed the life of 65-year-old James Doles of Bastrop.
The initial investigation revealed that a 2021 Chevrolet Silverado, driven by Doles, was traveling north on U.S. Highway 165. For reasons still under investigation, the Chevrolet traveled off the left side of the road and overturned.
Doles, who was unrestrained, was ejected and succumbed to his injuries at the scene. Routine toxicology samples were collected and will be submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.
Troopers would like to remind motorists that buckling up is the most effective way to protect yourself during a vehicle crash. Failure to take a few seconds to buckle up can have devastating consequences. Louisiana law requires every person in a vehicle, regardless of seating position, to be properly restrained day and night.
See schedule below for trash pickup schedule for the week of Christmas.Residents that have trash pickup scheduled on Tuesday, Dec. 24, will have their trash hauled off on Thursday, Dec. 26. There will be no chance to residents outside of the city limits.
Woman charged with DWI in restaurant drive-through line
Ruston Police arrested a local woman for DWI and drug possession after she was found asleep behind the wheel in the drive-through line of a restaurant.
Linda B. Sanders, 36, was arrested December 18 after the McDonald’s restaurant on South Trenton Street reported she was asleep in their drive-through line.
Officers found Sanders showing signs of impairment, including slurred speech and difficulty keeping her balance. Sanders said she had some alcohol earlier along with some marijuana and a Xanax tablet. Later, she stopped at a liquor store and bought a daiquiri.
Sanders was arrested and taken to the Lincoln Paris detention center where a breath test show no alcohol present. A drug recognition expert from the West Monroe Police Department responded to perform other tests related to drug impairment. The officer recognized signs of impairment by marijuana.
A search of Sanders’ wallet discovered half of an alprazolam tablet. She could not provide evidence that she had a prescription for the drug.
Sanders was booked for first offense DWI, possession of a Schedule IV controlled substance, and open container. Her bail amount was $1,500.
This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named or shown in photographs or video as suspects in a criminal investigation, or arrested and charged with a crime, have not been convicted of any criminal offense and are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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A Dubach man was arrested for illegal firearm possession after Lincoln Parish deputies responded to a complaint of a man discharging a gun near neighbor’s residence.
Michael W. Dick, 47, was charged with being a convicted felon in possession of firearms after he was found with two shotguns after a neighbor complained he trespassed on her property and fired a gun.
Deputies found Dick carrying two shotguns. He said there was a black panther in his camper. When asked why he was on the neighbor’s property, Dick reportedly said one of the neighbor’s dogs tried to bite him, so he fired one of the shotguns into the air.
Dick was arrested after a records check showed he was a convicted felon and could not legally possess a firearm.
One of the shotguns had a barrel length of only 17 inches. Louisiana law requires shotgun barrels to be at least 18 inches long.
Dick was booked for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon (two counts), possession of a modified firearm, illegal use of a weapon, and criminal trespass. Dick’s bail was set at $22,000.
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.
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.
(Ruston’s C.J. Malone scored six of the first eight points for the Bearcats in the win over El Dorado Saturday. Picture by Reggie McLeroy.)
By Kyle Roberts
RUSTON, La. — A fourth-quarter surge by Ruston High (3-4) was enough Saturday morning to propel Ruston to a 51-48 win over El Dorado, cementing the Bearcats’ sweep of the 2024 Remington Butler Classic after besting Red River High Friday night 62-47.
The Bearcats would have to overcome a sluggish first half in the Saturday morning contest, which Ruston High Assistant Coach Corey Deans attributed to the team not taking the morning opponent seriously enough.
“We came out late for warm-ups — we were lackadaisical,” Deans said after the game. “And we came out and warmed up bad, too. And that’s on the coach.”
After Bearcat senior C.J. Malone knocked down a pair of three-pointers for Ruston early, the Wildcats would respond and take a 13-10 lead going into the second quarter. Ruston outscored El Dorado 10-8 in the second quarter and trailed 21-20 at halftime.
El Dorado extended its lead to as many as five points in the second half, but Bearcat sophomore Ahmad Hudson came alive in the fourth quarter, scoring 11-consecutive points for Ruston High as El Dorado watched the lead evaporate. Senior Fabian Stringfellow would hit a three-pointer with 2:38 remaining to tie the game at 48-48, and a defensive stop near the end for the Bearcats was enough to keep El Dorado from getting a shot off and sending Ruston to its third-straight win.
The Wildcats would struggle in in the final minutes to an energized Bearcat defense, unable to score the basketball at all in the final minutes. Ruston scored 22 points in the fourth quarter after scoring 29 through three quarters. Hudson led all scorers with 19 points, scoring 12 in the fourth after not playing most of the first half.
“The fourth quarter is what we want to be,” Deans said. “But we want to have that for the first three quarters. We have a lot of bodies, and we can play as hard as we want to play. I just didn’t think we came out ready to play this game.”
On the previous night, Ruston topped Red River 62-47, thanks in large part to senior Joran Parker leading the team with 19 points, scoring 16 of his final total in the second half alone. Sophomore Keshun Malcolm added 17 and Hudson finished with 12 points.
Ruston shot out to a 25-17 lead at the half and never looked back in the 15-point win.
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.
Caroline James hit four free throws in the final 21 seconds to seal the win over Quitman. (Photo by Josh McDaniel)
by Malcolm Butler
Caroline James and Avery Ryan each scored 13 points and Cedar Creek’s defensive scheme stymied Quitman in the second half as the Lady Cougars pulled out a 46-42 victory before a standing room only crowd at The Brickhouse Friday night.
Creek (10-2) trailed by as many as 11 at 22-11 with following a three-pointer by Anna Leach with 7:05 to play in the second quarter — the fourth three-pointer of the opening nine minutes to play by the Wolverines — when Creek head coach Katie Hall decided to switch up defenses.
It worked.
With the Lady Cougars face-guarding Leach the rest of the night and using junior Taylor Martinez on Quitman star Cali Deal, Cedar Creek was able to hold the Wolverines to just 20 points over the final 23 minutes of the game.
“We worked on that this week, and we were prepared to mix up our defenses tonight,” said Hall. “We weren’t sure what was going to be successful tonight. It was a tall task of asking Taylor to guard Deal almost the entire game. And Caroline did a great job of taking (Leach) out in the second half because that is their engine that runs that ball club. Our defense won the game tonight, and I was very proud of that effort.”
James was also instrumental on the offensive end for the Lady Cougars. Trailing 22-11, James drained a three-pointer to make it 22-14 and later in the quarter hit another three-pointer to close the gap to 24-22 with just over a minute to play.
Creek trailed 27-26 at the break.
“We have been cursed in the second quarter this year,” said Hall. “We just haven’t been playing very well in the second quarter of ball games. I thought the change in defense and then Caroline hit a couple of threes that really sparked us and kept us going. I was very proud of her play tonight. She also hit some big free throws towards the end.”
The third quarter was a defensive slugfest as neither team could find its offensive rhythm with the Lady Cougars outscoring the Wolverines 6-1 in the quarter.
A Ryan layup one minute into the quarter gave the Lady Cougars a lead they would never relinquish. Avery hit a second layup three minutes later and Mary Grace Hawkins converted an AND1 to give Creek a 32-27 lead. A Deal free throw with 1:35 to play in the quarter was the lone point for Quitman.
The fourth quarter saw Creek score seven straight point as Ryan connected on a pair of buckets and Hawkins drained a three-pointer to give the Lady Cougars a 39-28 lead with 5:23 to play forcing a Quitman timeout.
However, the Wolverines wouldn’t go away as Deal scored seven straight points to close the deficit to 39-35. A pair of free throws by Alivia Lee made it 42-37 with 3:11 to play but Quitman would cut the Creek lead to 42-41 on a layup by Hallie Pullig with 90 seconds to play.
The lead remained one until James calmly stepped to the line and hit a pair of free throws with 21 seconds to play to make it 44-41.
After Deal split a pair of free throws with 14 seconds left, James hit two more free throws with 1.5 seconds to play to seal the victory for Creek.
“It’s nice to be able to have a balanced attack,” said Hall. “One night it’s one kid, and the next night it’s another kid. I love that we have different weapons on our team.”
Deal led Quitman with 18 points while Leach added 13 — all coming in the first half.
Creek will play Homer on December 26 at 4:30 p.m. in the Doc Edwards Invitational.
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Quitman Scoring: FG(3)-FT=TP
Jaleigh Burns 1(1)-0=3; Cali Deal 6(1)-5=18; Taylor Borland 0-2=2; Anna Leach 4(3)-2=13; Emma Walker 1-0=2; Hallie Pullig 2-0=4. Totals: 14(5)-9=42
Cedar Creek Scoring: FG(3)-FT=TP
Alivia Lee 0-3=3; Mary Grace Hawkins 4(1)-0=9; Caroline James 2(2)-7=13; Mallory Smith 2(2)-0=6; Zoey Venters 0-2=2; Avery Ryan 6-1=13. Totals: 14(5)-13=46.
Brayden Martin (#0) hit five three-pointers as Quitman raced past Cedar Creek 71-40 Friday night. (Photo by Josh McDaniel)
by Malcolm Butler
Quitman showed why its won 15 of its first 17 games.
The Wolverines put on a clinic Friday night, coasting past Cedar Creek 71-40 before a standing room only crowd at The Brickhouse.
Brayden Martin put on a shooting display, draining five three-pointers and scoring a game-high 22 points to lead Quitman to its 15th win this season.
Cedar Creek (6-3) took an early 6-3 on a three-pointers by Jake Terry and Cannon Robbins but then Quitman outscored the Cougars 12-4 the rest of the quarter to take a 15-10 advantage.
The Wolverines put the clamps on in the second quarter, outscoring Cedar Creek 19-4 to take a 20-point lead at 34-14 at halftime.
While Quitman was executing its offense and getting open looks, the Cougars played a more helter skelter style that led to too many turnovers and contested shots that came up empty.
Martin opened the third quarter with another three-pointer and the Cougars never got closer than 19 points the rest of the night.
Robbins and Terry lead Cedar Creek with 15 points each.
In addition to Martin’s big night for the Wolverines, Brayden Smith added 14 points and Noah Leach 12 for Quitman.
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Quitman Scoring: FG(3)-FT=TP
Noah Leach 2-8=12; Amaurion Thomp 1-0=2; Gavyn Caskey 1-0=2; Taden Thomas 7(1)-1=16; Abel Leach 1-0=2; Brayden Smith 6-2=14; Brayden Martin 8(5)-1=22. Totals: 26(6)-12=71
Cedar Creek Scoring: FG(3)-FT=TP
Cameron Temple 1(1)-0=3; Cannon Robbins 4(1)-6=15; Zack Waldron 1-0=2; Luke Waldron 1-1=3; Landon Hall 0-2=2; Jake Terry 5(2)-3=15. Totals: 12(4)-12=40
Each Monday and Friday, the Lincoln Parish Journal will post a list of non-for-profit upcoming events happening in the parish. If you would like to add your event to this list or advertise your for-profit events, please email us at lpjnewsla@gmail.com.
Monday, Dec. 23 11:30 a.m.: Lunch on Us (Presbyterian Church, 212 North Bonner Street., Ruston) — everyone welcome 6 p.m.: Toastmasters International meeting (Louisiana Center for the Blind, 101 South Trenton Street) 6-9 p.m.: Creative Meetups (Creatives at Work, 301 N. Trenton)
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.
Two program records fell on Saturday inside the Thomas Assembly Center on Karl Malone Court.
Louisiana Tech set a new single-game record with 33 assists. Twenty of those belonged to Sean Newman Jr., shattering the assist mark for a Bulldog, as LA Tech disposed of Rust College, 108-60, in the final non-conference game of the regular season.
Newman Jr. flirted with breaking the single-game record back on Nov. 18 when he dished out 14 dimes, coming one shy of tying the mark that was set by legendary point guard Speedy Smith in 2012.
“He keeps being so unselfish,” said head coach Talvin Hester. “When we need him to do something, he is usually there to get it done. Whether it is leadership, scoring the basketball, getting other people shots, he has been really good at those things. He deserves this honor.”
It seemed inevitable today as Newman Jr. had nine assists in the first 10 minutes of the game, helping to give LA Tech (11-2) a 32-8 advantage that included a 20-0 run versus the Bearcats.
His 11th dime came with 2:01 to play as Devin Ree buried a three-pointer, providing the Bulldogs register their 50th point of the game. Ultimately, the home team would take a 52-30 lead into the locker room.
Three more assists took place in the first two minutes of the second stanza, two of which came on alley-oop dunks by Kaden Cooper and Daniel Batcho. Another alley-oop slam to Batcho was the 15th and then a corner three-pointer by Cooper was the record breaker, both of which was part of a 19-0 run to put Rust away.
All the Bulldogs did exactly what they have been doing all season. Batcho scored a game-high 27 points to go along with 11 rebounds. Cooper had a double-double as well with 17 points and 11 boards as well. Amaree Abram drained three three-pointers in route to 17 points. And the bench provided a season-high 32 points.
And then of course there was Newman Jr. with his program-setting 20 assists which also set a new Conference USA record. This performance came five days after pouring in a career-high 25 points against Grand Canyon.
“I wanted to see us give all-out effort,” said Hester about his team’s final non-conference game. “The first half, I thought we got a little lazy defensively. We were capable of being better than that. I challenged them in the second half to be better. I thought we did a good job before I started subbing. Our team has a variety of ways we can attack. When we are guarding, we can be a handful for teams. I just want to continue sharing the love and continue to make the right play.”
LA Tech eclipsed 50 percent shooting for a fifth straight game (shot 56.4 percent). Rust was limited to 33.3 percent shooting from the field with Jordin Jackson leading the Bearcats in scoring with 17.
The family of David “West” Vaughan, of Ruston, Louisiana is saddened to announce his passing on December 20, 2024, at the age of 51. West was born on June 29, 1973, to Warren and Sharon Vaughan. West was a 1992 graduate of St. Frederick’s High School in Monroe, Louisiana. While attending St. Frederick’s with a stature of 6’10”, West was an all-star basketball player.
After college West began his football career and was the first player to be signed by Jeff Guerriero. Due to his impressive performance during combine, the NFL showed interest, initially by Tampa Bay. West moved around with various teams until landing in the Canadian Football League where he played for the Winnipeg Blue Bombers as an offensive lineman.
West remained a sports fan for life after his professional football career. He loved attending and watching various sports leagues through the years but especially loved his Louisiana Tech Bulldogs and Monroe Moccasins.
When West retired from football, he found a career in the moving business. He started M&W Transfer and later owned both Faulk-Collier and Arpin Van Lines in Monroe until he formed his current independent moving company, Supermovers, in 2015. West worked hard over the years to give his customers the best moving experience possible. He loved creating his brand and sharing it with family and friends.
West loved his people, and he loved them big, as big as his big physical stature. He was a devoted husband, father, son, and friend to many. West reconnected with a high school girlfriend, Jerrilyn Frasier, in 2018 and they were married in July 2020. West and Jerrilyn shared a great love and a love of travel. West took pleasure in spoiling his “J”. They loved to travel to new and familiar places especially with their children, David, Victoria, Turner, and Kinman. West was beyond proud of his kids and loved to show them off.
West is preceded in death by his grandparents, Jean and A.O. Wilkinson and Nellie and Warren Vaughan, Sr.
He is survived by his wife Jerrilyn Frasier Vaughan; son, David West Vaughan, Jr.; daughters, Victoria Vaughan, Turner Frasier, and Kinman Frasier; his parents, Warren and Sharon Vaughan; his sister Brandi (Clay) Garcie; and his brother, Brent (Allyson) Vaughan, many aunts, uncles, and cousins. Special friends Terry and Sharnetta Bulter.
The family will hold a Celebration of Life at 2:00 P.M. Sunday, December 29, 2024, at Kilpatrick Funeral Homes in Monroe, LA. A visitation will be from 1:00 – 2:00 P.M. for the family and friends.
In lieu of flowers, memorials made to 4 Paws Rescue Inc. at www.4pawsrescueinc.org or Louisiana Academy of Audiology, 1702 Cedar Creek Road, Ruston, LA 71270.
Funeral services celebrating the life of Ike Jerry Futch, 83, of West Monroe, LA will be held at 11:00 A.M., Monday, December 23, 2024, at Mulhearn Funeral Home in West Monroe, LA. Interment will be held at Antioch Cemetery in Spearsville, Louisiana, under the direction of Mulhearn Funeral Home. Visitation will start at 9:30 A.M. until the time of service.
Ike was born January 31, 1941, in Spearville, Louisiana to Joe R. Futch (“Bouy”) and Marie Smith Futch. As the fifth of nine children, he took great pride in his early life experiences growing up in a large, tight-knit family. Ike and his five brothers and three sisters all played sports in one form or another, encouraging Ike to dream of being a baseball player from the moment he first picked up a ball. Before graduating from Spearsville High School in 1959, he signed a letter of intent to play baseball and basketball at the collegiate level. Those plans all changed when Yankee scout, Atley Donald showed up at his door step the morning after graduation with an offer to sign with the Yankees organization.
Ike had many accomplishments during his 9-season baseball career, completing playing time in the Yankees, Astros, and Cardinals organizations. It seemed that everywhere he played he set a strike- out record, soon earning him the reputation of being the hardest man in baseball to strike out. Along with other notable statistics, he struck out just 59 times in 4,057 plate appearances. He had the privilege of playing with greats such as: Pete Rose, Tony Oliva and Tommy Helms. By 1966, he had progressed as far as Triple-A with the Houston Astros organization until an injury denied him his chance to accept an advancement up to the Major Leagues. That didn’t stop him from following his favorite sports team and greatest love until the end, the Houston Astros.
Following his baseball career, Ike enjoyed a profession in management and sales. He continued to be an avid sportsman, enjoying fishing and hunting with his beloved brothers and children. Ike cherished his most treasured role as ‘Granddaddy,’ offering unwavering support as a coach, mentor, and proud cheerleader for all their achievements.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Marie Futch, brothers, Frankie Futch, Fred Futch, Terry (“Blue”) Futch and Joe Futch; sisters, Annie Futch Puckett and Kay Futch Scarborough; and brothers-in-law, Leo Scarborough and James Bass; sister-in-law, Carolyn Gardner Futch.
He is survived by his wife of sixty-one years, Brenda Patterson Futch; his five children, Jarrett Futch (Morgan), Joely Futch Griggs (George), Amy Futch Pilgreen (Brent), Jordan Futch (Brandy) and Annsley Green; his six grandchildren, Keaton Donald (Amanda), Rory Futch, Karson Donald, Rosemary Pilgreen, Jackson Pilgreen and Connor Green; and two great-grandchildren, Hailey and Owen Donald; brother, Curtis Futch (Louise); sister, Rosa Futch Bass; sisters-in-law, Jean Futch, Nancy Futch, and Sue Lynn Futch; as well as many nieces and nephews.
Pallbearers will be Keaton Donald, Jackson Pilgreen, Shannon Futch, Brandon Futch, Keith LeBlanc, and Brian Scarborough.
Honorary pallbearers will be Connor Green and Joseph Puckett.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Special thanks to Tara, Korlen, and Regina, Ike’s caregivers at Avalon Nursing Home.
Funeral services for Wilbur C. “Woody” McDonald, Jr., age 90, of Jonesboro, LA will be 2:00 P.M. Monday, December 23, 2024, at Jonesboro Hodge Methodist Church in Jonesboro, LA. Officiating the service will be Pastor Gary Green. Interment will follow in the Jonesboro City Cemetery under the direction of Kilpatrick Funeral Homes of Ruston, LA.
A visitation for family and friends will be prior to the service from 12:00 noon until service time at the church.
Woody was born December 9, 1934, in Jonesboro, LA and passed away December 20, 2024, in Shreveport, LA. He was a member of the Jonesboro Hodge Methodist Church and served in the United States Army. Woody was a Louisiana Tech Alum and was a proud Lifetime supporter of Louisiana Tech University.
He was instrumental in the development of Caney Lake, as some would say, he was “The Father of Caney Lake”. He worked diligently for many years to see that this dream became a reality for the citizens of Jackson Parish.
Woody was CEO of the Jackson Parish Bank where he was employed for over 70 years. He was also an avid golfer who enjoyed time with family and friends especially on Black Lake and Caney Lake. He was a loving grandfather and great grandfather. Woody is preceded in death by his parents, Wilbur C. McDonald and Annie D. Corbett McDonald and granddaughter Kaitlin Boyett.
He is survived by his wife of almost 52 years Sybil Cox McDonald of Jonesboro, LA; children: Margo Maxwell of Quitman, LA, Melanie McDonald of Quitman, LA, Michael McDonald (Michele) of Jonesboro, LA, Machaela Golden (Gary) of Baton Rouge, LA, Laura Boyett (Brian) of Jonesboro, LA; grandchildren: Amanda Martin, Cammie Neatherland, Drew Maxwell, Sadie Flower, William Watts, Jay Shively, Carson Shively, Layla Calhoun, Madeline Golden, Hunter Boyett, Courtland Boyett; 10 great grandchildren; sister, Ann McDonald Shows; niece, JoAnn Teat; and numerous friends.
Pallbearers will be grandsons Drew Maxwell, Will Watts, Jay Shively, Carson Shively, Hunter Boyett, and Courtland Boyett. Honorary pallbearers are Stuart Harrison, Burl Brashear, Eddie Langston, Bill Jimmerson, and Kris Cox.
Memorial may be made to the Jonesboro Hodge Methodist Church, 402 4th Street, Jonesboro, LA 71251.
