On Tuesday, December 17, 2024, shortly before 7:00 p.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop F began investigating a single-vehicle fatal crash involving a pedestrian on Louisiana Highway 34 at its intersection with East Bawcom Street. The crash claimed the life of 78-year-old Carolyn Hudson of West Monroe.
The preliminary investigation revealed the crash occurred as Hudson walked across the westbound lane of Louisiana Highway 34. At the same time, a 2010 Chrysler Town and Country was traveling west on Louisiana Highway 34. For reasons still under investigation, Hudson was struck by the Chrysler.
Hudson suffered fatal injuries and died at the scene. The driver of the Chrysler was properly restrained and uninjured. Although impairment is not suspected, routine toxicology samples were collected and will be submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.
Pedestrian safety is of paramount importance when walking near and crossing roadways. To stay safe, pedestrians should always walk while facing oncoming traffic. Doing this, allows pedestrians to see oncoming vehicles and react appropriately. Additionally, when walking at night, wear brightly colored clothing or reflective gear to make it easier for drivers to see them. These simple yet vital precautions can help keep pedestrians safe and reduce the likelihood of crashes on the road.
Man interferes with officer investigating complaint
A Deville man was arrested last week when he interfered with a Ruston police officer issuing a summons to a homeowner on a loud music complaint.
Ruston Police responded to an Arthur Drive residence on December 13 regarding loud music. At about 2:00 a.m., on the third call to return to the residence because the music was continuing, an officer attempted to write a summons to the resident to appear in court.
While writing the summons, the officer was approached by Colton Hardy, 20, who stood between the officer and the homeowner in a threatening manner. Hardy was taken into custody, and the summons was issued.
When asked why he interfered with the officer, Hardy said, “I saw my friend talking with a cop, and I wanted to get him away from you.” Hardy provided his name but refused to provide his date of birth on three occasions.
Hardy was advised of the charges against him and taken to the Lincoln Parish Detention Center. A THC vaping device (marijuana) was found in his pants pocket, but he said it was not his.
Hardy was booked for disturbing the peace by being intoxicated in public, interfering with a law enforcement officer, resisting an officer by failure to provide identification, and possession of marijuana.
Hardy’s bail was at at $3,500.
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.
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 a letter to the 2024 Ruston Bearcat football team, particularly to the seniors who have led this team through the 2024 season:
Although I am not a Bearcat by birth, coming from East Texas, high school football has been in my blood since I could walk, talk, and cheer. But unlike many Bearcat alumni, I have walked the halls of 900 Beacat Drive for far longer than 4 years, teaching those kids whom the community cheers for on Friday nights—and hundreds more besides them.
That unique perspective makes me look at this Football team a little differently. Where the community sees burly young men ready to represent their school and community, I see my young scholars, my kids. And I could not be more proud of the young scholars and young men that they are growing up to become.
Because of this team, this senior class and the classes preceding them, my 5 and 7 year old boys think football season lasts until mid-December. Because of this team, they assume that a trip to NOLA just in time for Christmas is the standard. Because of this team, they’ve been to the Superdome more times than many life-long Saints fans.
But my boys have met many of you Bearcats in my classroom as well. And because of those interactions, they believe that great athletes are also great scholars. They know that some of the best players on that football field are taking some of the most challenging classes offered at RHS. They believe that being a star athlete means taking their academics seriously.
They’ve met you all in the hallways and in the boulevard and with their friends at events in their schools and the community. And so, most importantly, they also believe that great athletes are great human beings. They believe that great athletes are kind, patient, and respectful. They believe that being a Bearcat means holding yourself to a standard of excellence on the field, in the classroom, and simply, as a person. Because of you, they want to be a great athlete and all that they believe that entails.
So right now the sting of defeat may be fresh, and we may be looking at the end of this season with disappointment and frustration, but please know that those last 48 minutes will not be your legacy as Bearcats. Your legacy will be the standard of excellence and goodness that you have instilled in the future generations of Bearcats, and that legacy is Firmly Founded.
Ashlee Bell Ruston High School English IV Dual Enrollment & AP Literature
Ruston-based Brownie Girl Scouts from Troop 11 have completed work allowing them to earn the “It’s Your Story – Tell It” journey badge.
One of the group’s projects was to write a biography poem, which they shared recently in front of an audience at the Historic Fire Station, where Ruston Main Street Director Amy Stegall also spoke with the girls about leadership, careers, strengths, interests and using one’s abilities to make the community a better place.
The Brownies were able to choose their preferred format for the poems, and some have been below.
By Evonna I am a sister. I enjoy my tablet. I love my home. I fear ghosts. I wonder if I can explore. I wish for a rainbow. I dream about unicorns. I feel happy. I plan to explore the world. I am a Girl Scout.
*****
By Eyvah I am a student. I enjoy the movies. I love Frankie. I fear ghosts. I wonder if I can get ice cream. I wish for toys. I dream to be brave. I feel silly. I plan to make a fort. I am a girl.
*****
By Marley I am happy. I enjoy seafood. I love my mom. I fear spiders. I wonder why is everyone so pretty. I wish to be strong. I dream to love. I feel happiness. I plan to have fun. I am Marley. The end.
*****
By Gwyneth I am creative. I enjoy reading. I love my mom. I fear rollercoasters. I wonder how hot it is in Australia. I wish I could fly. I dream of going to Paris. I feel happy. I plan to become an artist. I am a sister.
*****
By Frances Frances Who is nice, creative, and fantastic Daughter of Tristen and Ben Lover of pizza, ballet, running, reading, and my family Who fears spiders and mean substitutes Who needs food, water, and love Who feels happy Who would like to see Paris and New York Resident of Ruston, Louisiana Bergholtz
*****
By Sylvia Sylvia Who is caring, kind, and thoughtful Daughter of Gergana and Dencho Lover of animals Who fears tornados Who needs a puppy Who feels happy Who would like to see a hippo, dolphin, and shark Resident of Ruston, Louisiana Genov
*****
By Estella Estella I am silly, brave, and friendly. I love my relationship with my mom. I love me and Jack. I have experienced sadness, love, and happiness. I fear the dark, spiders, and sharks. I have accomplished teaching my brother things. I want to see myself rescue animals and write a book. I am a resident of Choudrant, Louisiana. Funderburg
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Every one of us can relate to the desire to experience success and/or to be viewed as successful. To probe deeper though, we need to clarify what we mean by success. Generally, we are talking about the achievement of a desired outcome, goal, or accomplishment. Most of us know success when we see it.
There’s absolutely nothing wrong with a desire to experience success or to be successful in our given pursuits. Most of us are wired that way whether we are willing to put forth the necessary effort or not. We desire success for ourselves, our organization, and our team.
The problem is not in the pursuit of success, but rather considering that outcome or achievement as the destination. Success, whether individually or collectively within an organization or team, is inward focused. Success focuses on me or us.
Significance, however, focuses on others. Success is based on an outcome that will fade in time where significance is based on an impact that will be longer term in nature. Success is derived from achievement while significance is aimed at impact. Success is something to celebrate while significance is something to elevate.
It’s not that we must choose between success and significance. Success will frequently open the door for significance. The two should work hand in hand. We experience success, either individually or collectively, and use that platform to invest in others, impact others, and elevate others.
Business leaders must deliver results to stay employed and have an impact. Coaches must win games to stay in the game and have impact. Success matters and is not the problem. The problem is too many don’t take the next step to significance!
There are a couple of verses in Philippians chapter two that direct us to do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit but in humility to count others as more significant than ourselves and to look to others interests in addition to our own (interests). In other words, we use our talents, gifts, and opportunities to their fullest, but the goal is not self-reward, but rather the impact we can have on others.
So, what does significance look like for the business organization?
Improving employee experience so that people know they are cared about, valued beyond completing a task, and viewed as a team member
Pursuing a purpose beyond financial success such as community impact, a just cause, or support for a worthy endeavor
Developing leaders and people to have positive impact both within and outside the organization
What does significance look like for a team?
Impacting the community and campus in a positive way by bringing people together and uniting diverse groups
Elevating team members to grow and develop into impactful men and women
Raising the standards for the institution, community, and support groups to reach their respective potential and advance because of the example set
What does significance look like for an individual?
Improving the lives of individuals connected with in any number of ways
Leaving a legacy of impact well beyond one’s lifetime
Impacting the beliefs, convictions, and actions of those invested in for the better
Be successful. Narrow your focus, highlight your strengths as a competitive advantage, and reach your potential in whatever you are pursuing. However, don’t stop there. Leave some margin in your life and/or the life of your organization for significance beyond that pursuit of success.
A great starting point is just to start investing in those in front of you. Start where your feet are planted today and build out from there.
Pursue success, and you may find momentary fulfillment and reward.
Pursue significance, and you look back on a life well lived.
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.
Cedar Creek 8th grader Anna Grace Bourn (Courtesy photo)
by Malcolm Butler
Sixteen competitors from Cedar Creek’s powerlifting team competed at the Tri-Meet against Class 5A Ruston and West Monroe on Tuesday.
“Today was mostly about our younger lifters and gaining confidence and experience,” said Cedar Creek head coach Jacob Angevine.
According to Angevine, the meet was the first competitive powerlifting experience for 13 of the lifters with 11 of those being in 8th, 9th or 10th grades.
“After losing 13 seniors last year, it’s nice having a new wave of youth into the program,” said Angevine.
Angevine said that Tuesday’s meet was mostly for first-time lifters.
“With us having so many in our program, we have to split up where we lift certain people,” said Angevine. “Most of the kids that lifted (Tuesday) have been in gear longer this season or are brand new to the sport. This meet was mainly for our first year competitors.”
There were no individual awards at this event.
Cedar Creek’s next meet will be the Billy Jack Talton Invitational hosted at West Monroe on January 4. Creek will host a Tri-Meet on January 9 and again on February 6.
Here are the Cedar Creek competitors and their marks at the West Monroe Tri-Meet.
Female Competitors
Jillian Ramsey (105-pound class) – 395 total
Joanie Cannon (105-pound class) – 565 total
Anna Grace Bourn (123-pound class) – 440 total
Marley Jinks (123-pound class) – 515 total
Anna Malsam (148-poound class) – 375 total
Lexie Vance (165-pound class) – 560 total
Annabelle Hockenjos (198-pound class) – 480 total
Bella DiGiovanni (198-pound class) – 640 total
Olivia Ferrell (220-pound class) – 425 total
Ella Culver (220+pound class) – 305 total (no squat)
Two Lincoln Parish teams were well-represented on the all-District 1-1A team following the 2024 season.
Both Lincoln Prep and Cedar Creek had a plethora of familiar names scattered throughout the first and second teams as voted on by the district coaches.
The Panthers had five first team honorees, including Cenario Wilson (WR), Jakobe Jones (OL), D’Tavion Wright (RB), Tyler Wimberly (LB) and Cenario Wilson (DB). Cedar Creek’s lone first team representative was James Myers (Athlete).
Lincoln Prep had six second team representatives, including Kengarrion Johnson (OL), Jaylin Huntley (RB), Cenario Wilson (RS), Ryan Randolph (DL), Samuel Williams (LB), and Joseph Spann (DB).
Creek’s second teamers included Bryce Martin (OL), James Myers (Wingback), Blake Robinson (DL), Mason Wooden (LB), and James Myers (DB).
Haynesville’s Isaiah Washington was named the Offensive MVP while teammates Keizavion Woods and Germerian Williams were named Co-Defensive MVPs.
Haynesville led the way with 19 first team selections.
Most fathers would do just about anything to protect their daughters from harm, criticism, and unhappiness. Margaret’s father was no different. In December 1950, Margaret, a soprano singer, performed at the famous Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, Tennessee to crowds who were enthusiastic about her “winning manner, discriminating selection of music, and naturalness.” She had had many successes in concert and solo roles with several orchestras. On this particular night, Margaret was accompanied by Herman Allison on piano. When the curtain rose, Margaret greeted the large, cheering crowd wearing a concert dress of sari material, billowy material woven of gold and silver threads, which had been a gift from the wife of the Prime Minister of Pakistan.” One critic reported that she won over the audience “before she sang a note.” During her performance, she sang such difficult selections as “The Nightingale” by Schubert, “The Nut Tree,” by Schumann, and an aria from “Le Nozze de Figaro.” So enthused was the audience that night that Margaret performed two encores.
While many other critics wrote positive reviews, 34-year-old Paul Hume, music editor for The Washington Post, was less than impressed. Hume wrote that Margaret “cannot sing very well” and “is flat a good deal of the time.” “There are a few moments during her recital,” he wrote, “when one can relax and feel confident that she will maker her goal, which is the end of the song… It is an extremely unpleasant duty to record such unhappy facts about so honestly appealing a personality. But as long as [Margaret] sings as she has for three years, and does today, we seem to have no recourse unless it is to omit comment on her programs altogether.” It was a biting review.
In response, Margaret said that she had not had time to read the review but he, Paul Hume, “has a perfect right to say whatever he thinks.” She had received other negative reviews from critics in the past, but concert hall, radio, and television audiences adored her. Despite the critics, people flocked to see her perform. Margaret brushed off the negative review. Margaret’s father, however, was enraged by Hume’s review. He wrote a scathing letter to Hume in which he said, “I have just read your lousy review buried in the back pages. You sound like a frustrated old man who never made a success, an eight-ulcer man on a four-ulcer job, and all four ulcers working.” Margaret’s father’s anger grew as he continued to write. “I never met you but if I do, you’ll need a new nose and plenty of beefsteak and perhaps a supporter below.” In the letter, Margaret’s father threatened to “beat [him] up, from top to bottom.” On the following day, newspapers reprinted parts of Margaret’s father’s letter. At first, Margaret was surprised and did not believe her father wrote the scathing letter. When she learned that her father had written the letter, she told the press that she had “no comment to make.” Margaret’s father explained that he had written the letter out of love for his daughter.
On March 27, 2002, more than five decades later, Margaret’s father’s letter to Paul Hume was auctioned by the world-famous Christie’s Auction House. The letter sold for $193,000. You see, Margaret’s father wrote the letter on White House stationery. Margaret’s father was President Harry Truman.
Sources:
1. “Truman, Harry. Autograph letter signed (H.S.T.” to Paul Hume, Music Critic of the Washington Post, D.C., 6 December 1950,” Christies.com, https://www.christies.com/en/lot/lot-3886900.
2. The Tennessean (Nashville, Tennessee), December 9, 1950, p.1.
3. St. Louis Post-Dispatch, December 24, 1950, p.13.
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Claire Simmons (#10) drives down the lane for two during the Tigers win.
Courtesy of GSU Athletic Communications
Grambling State dominated Arkansas Baptist on Wednesday afternoon, securing a commanding 94-52 victory at the Fredrick C. Hobdy Assembly Center. The Tigers (3-8) displayed balanced scoring and relentless defensive pressure to snap their losing streak, while Arkansas Baptist (0-7) remained winless on the season.
The Tigers were led by Lydia Freeman, who posted a double-double with 25 points and 20 rebounds, including 13 offensive boards. Alyssa Phillip also recorded a double-double, contributing 16 points and 11 rebounds. Halima Salat added 12 points off the bench, shooting 4-of-8 from beyond the arc. Sharonica Hartsfield contributed ten steals to go along with six assists. Grambling’s bench was a significant factor, contributing 60 points to the team’s total.
Arkansas Baptist struggled to keep pace despite Mackenzie Carter’s team-high 10 points and eight rebounds. Ah’jaia Kenner and Kaniya Moore added eight points apiece, but the Lady Buffaloes shot just 38.9% from the field and committed 46 turnovers.
Grambling stormed out of the gates with a dominant 30-point first quarter, fueled by 13 field goals and suffocating defense. The Tigers forced 21 first-half turnovers and entered halftime with a commanding 49-31 lead. Arkansas Baptist managed to slow the Tigers slightly in the third quarter, but Grambling exploded in the fourth, outscoring the Lady Buffaloes 30-13 to seal the win.
The Tigers defensive intensity was a highlight, as they recorded 27 steals and scored 49 points off turnovers. Grambling also controlled the interior, outscoring Arkansas Baptist 54-28 in the paint and pulling down 62 rebounds, including 37 on the offensive glass.
Grambling State will hit the road to face Texas Southern University on Thursday, January 2, at H&PE Arena in Houston, Texas.
Ruston Regional Speciality Hospital CEO Mark Rice announced Tuesday the facility will be closed effective midnight of January 31, 2025.
The staff, which numbers more than 70, was notified of the upcoming closure Tuesday morning, citing both expenses and lack of patients as the primary reasons for shutting down.
“It is with deep regret and profound sadness that we are announcing that Ruston Regional Specialty Hospital will be closing, effective at midnight, January 31, 2025,” Rice announced in a statement emailed out Tuesday. “Most of you know that Ruston Regional Specialty Hospital (“Ruston Regional”), is owned and operated by Priority Hospital Group, LLC (PHG). This announcement, which is official, will bring cessation to patient care after patients currently in the hospital are either discharged or transferred to the PHG hospital in Monroe.”
Rice addressed issues with both Medicare and Medicaid Services making it more difficult for patients to be approved for care in long-term care facilities.
“After the Public Health Emergency (PHE) ended in May of 2023, traditional Medicare (through the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services) disqualified a lot of patients, who prior to the PHE, were eligible for a stay in a long-term care hospital (LTCH),” Rice said in the statement. “In other words, Medicare admission criteria became more stringent, disqualifying certain types of diagnoses, such as those patients with severe wounds. CMS did this by imposing a prerequisite “three midnights in a critical care unit at a short-term acute care hospital” rule for a patient to qualify for admission to the LTCH. This was highly debated and a controversial change in the industry. It was not rooted in clinical necessity but rather a “band-aid” attempt to help reduce overall Medicare spending on healthcare for seniors. Nevertheless, the rule did take effect after the PHE ended, and we at Ruston Regional did everything possible to mitigate the rule and keep the hospital open.”
Rice also addressed patients in Ruston looking for health care in Monroe and Shreveport as a factor.
“Ruston has an issue with outward migration,” Rice said in the statement. “In other words, although there are excellent physicians here in Ruston, far too many residents of Lincoln Parish voluntarily choose to seek hospitalization outside of Ruston, opting for the cities of Shreveport, Bossier City and Monroe. This is one reason you see providers from Monroe building facilities and programs in Ruston, to offer additional options to Ruston residents. After patients leave Ruston, identifying and attracting them back to Ruston for their post-acute and rehabilitation care is increasingly difficult. This is due in large part to the growth in Medicare Advantage programs and the necessary pre-authorizations and approvals that go along with getting these patients approved for admission.
“The bottom line is that considering all the above, the hospital just cannot achieve the level of financial performance required to sustain operations. The Ruston market is too small to support a specialty hospital like Ruston Regional under current healthcare realities and local market dynamics. Ruston residents can still travel to Monroe to obtain LTCH services, which is good considering services will still be available to Ruston residents, but no doubt less convenient now that families will have to drive to Monroe for quality LTCH services.”
Courtesy of the Ruston-Lincoln Chamber of Commerce
The Ruston-Lincoln Chamber of Commerce announced the 2nd annual recipients of the 2024 Workforce Development Grant Program during a press conference on Thursday, December 12 at 3:30PM at Origin Bank’s Downtown Location.
The purpose of the Workforce Development Grant Program is to provide local businesses with resources to train and develop their workforce to reduce turnover and contribute to a growing business environment. By focusing on workforce development, the Chamber is carrying out its mission to help Ruston-Lincoln Parish prosper. This annual grant program serves as the Chamber’s primary initiative supporting workforce development across Ruston-Lincoln Parish.
The 2024 grant recipients include: Choudrant Appliance, The Loft Barbershop, Louisiana Center for the Blind, and Parish Controls LLC.
“We’re excited to equip local businesses with essential resources to invest in their workforce,” said Thomas Graham, Chair of the Ruston-Lincoln Chamber Board of Directors. “We believe that this focus on workforce training and development will bring lasting benefits to our entire business community.”
The annual Ruston-Lincoln Chamber Golf Tournament serves as the chief fundraiser for the Workforce Development Grant Program. Each applicant submitted a one-page application detailing how requested funds would be utilized to support and address their workforce needs.
“Congratulations to all those who received grants. This workforce investment opportunity plays a vital role in fostering a robust and sustainable economic environment,” said William Dearmon, President and CEO of the Ruston-Lincoln Chamber of Commerce. “We’re excited to announce that planning for our 3rd Annual Golf Tournament, will kick off in the coming weeks,” added Elizabeth Turnley, the newly appointed interim President and CEO of the Ruston-Lincoln Chamber of Commerce.
For more information about the Workforce Development Grant Program, visit www.rustonlincoln.org.
With the conclusion of the 2024 high school football season, it’s time to reveal the fourth annual all-Lincoln Parish Journal Football team comprised of players from Cedar Creek, Lincoln Prep and Ruston High.
This team was voted on by the media members who covered the three schools this year.
Ruston High swept the specialty awards as Josh Brantley (Offensive Player of the Year), Zheric Hill (Defensive Player of the Year), and Jerrod Baugh (Coach of the Year) took home those honors after another state title run by the Bearcats.
Brantley combined an air attack with a dangerous ground game, accounting for a total of 2,357 yards on offense (1682 passing and 675 rushing), while throwing for 17 touchdowns and running for 15 more. The Tulane signee earned his second straight spot on the all-LPJ team.
Hill totaled 127 tackles on the season while picking off two passes after starting every game, while registering two sacks and eight tackles for loss. The Louisiana Tech signee earned a spot on the all-LPJ team for the third straight year.
Baugh led the Bearcats to a 11-3 record and the program’s third straight Nonselect Division I state title game, a first in the history of the tradition-rich program. Over the past three years, the Bearcats have posted a 37-5 mark and have captured two District 2-5A titles and one state championship title.
Ruston High led the way this year with 16 selections followed by Lincoln Prep with seven and Cedar Creek with four.
Congratulations to this year’s honorees.
2024 All-LPJ Football Team
Offense
QB Josh Brantley, Ruston
RB Jordan Hays, Ruston
RB D’Tavion Wright, Lincoln Prep
WR Joran Parker, Ruston
TE/WR Admad Hudson, Ruston
OL Logan Canales, Cedar Creek
OL Ryan Randolph, Lincoln Prep
OL Sam Nations, Ruston
OL Cam Venzant, Ruston
OL Brooks Brown, Ruston
UT Dylone Brooks (RB), Ruston
UT Demarcus Robinson (OL), Lincoln Prep
Defense
DL: Blake Robinson, Cedar Creek
DL Jamarion Pouncy, Lincoln Prep
DL Payton Bell, Ruston
DL Ka’Varion Key, Ruston
LB Sam Williams, Lincoln Prep
LB Zheric Hill, Ruston
LB Zander Hayes, Ruston
DB: James Myers, Cedar Creek
DB Cenario Wilson, Lincoln Prep
DB Aidan Anding, Ruston
DB Fabo Stringfellow, Ruston
UT Bryce Martin (OL), Cedar Creek
UT Verlanski Glosson (DB), Lincoln Prep
Specialists
K/P Jack Elliott, Ruston
RS Aidan Anding, Ruston
Coach of the Year: Jerrod Baugh (Ruston)
Offensive Player of the Year: Josh Brantley (Ruston)
Defensive Player of the Year: Zheric Hill (Ruston)
_______________________________
All-LPJ Specialty Awards Year-by-Year
Coach of the Year
2024: Jerrod Baugh (Ruston)
2023: Jerrod Baugh (Ruston)
2022: Jerrod Baugh (Ruston)
2021: Matt Middleton (Cedar Creek)
Offensive Player of the Year
2024: Josh Brantley (Ruston)
2023: Jordan Hayes (Ruston)
2022: Jaden Osborne (Ruston), Aaron Jackson (Ruston)
A Lincoln Parish Detention Center prisoner attempted to escape during a visit to the Northern Louisiana Medical Center last week.
Trontais Lewis, 38, of Ruston, was being held at the detention center for insurance fraud, three counts of identity theft, and failure to appear in court. On December 12 at about 11:00 p.m., Lewis visited the restroom inside the hospital.
After he exited the restroom, the escorting deputy told Lewis to place his hands on the wall and raise his leg so leg restraints could be applied. When a nearby automatic exterior door opened in the emergency room, Lewis turned away from the wall and ran down the hallway.
Lewis was ordered to stop, but he continue to flee until he turned into a corner with no exit. According to the deputy’s report, Lewis turned at him aggressively as if he wanted to fight. Lewis tried to physically overpower the deputy, striking him on the left side of the face and grabbing the deputies fingers and bending them as if trying to break them.
During the struggle, Lewis screamed about wanting to commit suicide. The deputy asked medical staff to call for additional assistance. With the help of the medical staff, Lewis‘s restraints were replaced.
When Lewis was returned to the detention center, he was booked on additional charges of simple escape, battery on a police officer, resisting officer, and attempted theft. His total bail on all charges is now $163,000.
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.
Avery Ryan (left) and Taylor Martinez (right) are a big reason Cedar Creek is off to a fast start. (Photos by Darrell James)
by Malcolm Butler
Katie Hall remembers shedding some tears on November 22.
They were tears of joy.
Hall, the Cedar Creek girls’ basketball coach, was emotional a few months earlier when junior Avery Ryan got word that the Louisiana High School Athletic Association (LHSAA) had ruled her ineligible for the season.
Ryan moved with her parents to Ruston during the summer, as the family followed her older sister who is enrolled at Louisiana Tech. So with the relocation of the family, she enrolled at Cedar Creek School, a transition she also felt would benefit her academically.
“My parents wanted to move over here because my sister is going to (Louisiana) Tech,” said Ryan. “I have dyslexia so being in the smaller class sizes really helps me. It had nothing to do with basketball.”
However, despite knowing they did everything on the up and up and within the rules of the LHSAA, Ryan was ruled ineligible early in the school year.
“Whenever we found out she was ineligible, it was a rough day at practice,” said junior Britton Bennett. “There were a lot of tears. It was just something we didn’t want to have to think about.”
But after an appeal and plenty of phone calls, emails, and conversations between the school, Ryan’s parents and representatives, and high school athletics association officials, the LHSAA overturned their initial ruling.
Ryan was eligible immediately. Hall remembers that day vividly.
“(Cedar Creek girls AD) Julie Riser was standing at the copy machine and got an email,” said Hall. “She was like, ‘Why am I getting an eligibility thing from the LHSAA?’ She opened it, and she realized the X moved. The X went from ineligible to eligible.”
Riser relayed the good news to Hall who then found assistant coach Toni Martinez. The two coaches then called Ryan out of class to deliver the news outside the school’s gym. What proceeded was a three-way cry fest of a different kind.
Hall then gathered the entire team in the gym which led to even more tears of relief and joy.
“We could tell something up was up,” said Bennett about the team meeting. “We could tell Coach Katie had been crying. They told us Avery was free, and it was a whole different perspective on things. Everybody was crying happy tears. It was awesome.”
Hall still has the video of those meetings on her phone and still gets emotional when watching it.
The addition of Ryan plus junior guard Taylor Martinez, another Benton transfer, has helped the Cougars start this season 9-2, including wins over 5A West Monroe, 4A Northwood and 3A Bastrop.
Taylor Martinez’s mother Toni was hired as an assistant girl’s coach at Cedar Creek this summer. Her dad Todd was hired as the head boys coach at West Ouachita.
“Cedar Creek was not in the plans,” said Taylor. “The plan was to be at Benton until I graduated. But things changed and this is where my mom got a job. Coming in I was really nervous. New team, new people. But everyone has accepted me and been very welcoming.”
Cedar Creek returned a strong nucleus of last year’s team that advanced to the Select School Division IV quarterfinals before falling to eventual state champion Southern Lab. Players like Caroline James, Zoey Venters, Mary Grace Hawkins, Alivia Lee, and Mallory Smith saw significant playing time the previous season.
So how would the addition of two transfers impact chemistry of the team?
“Anytime you get a new face or personality into the program, it’s going to be a little scary on their end,” said Hall. “I think our girls were really good at welcoming both of them. I think it’s a credit to our girls’ character and the culture we have instilled here. We want to treat humans like humans. Our (returning) players embraced them so quickly. It was a natural fit. We have a great group of girls.”
“When we found out they were coming here, everyone was ready,” said Bennett. “It was almost like there was a space waiting for them. Avery and Taylor have both stepped up and they have just fit into this team.”
Both players felt the love.
“It’s been amazing,” said Ryan. “The girls were very welcoming. When I found out I couldn’t play, it didn’t just affect me, it affected everyone. Everyone was there for me. And then when I did get ruled eligible, it was a really big deal. The whole school was excited.
“It’s been a very, very good change. I am so much happier. My mental state is so good right now.”
“Everyone was so supportive,” said Taylor Martinez. “My first game back I remember feeling so loved by my teammates. The atmosphere was so good. I’ve never been a part of anything like this. This really is a family atmosphere, and there aren’t many things like it.”
The meshing of the two Benton transfers with an already talented corps at Cedar Creek has led to the impressive start with the lone losses coming to 5A Haughton (61-49) and 3A Sterlington (46-32). Although it is still relatively early, the Lady Cougars are currently No. 2 in the Select School Division IV power ratings behind only Southern Lab.
Hall believes the combination of continued improvement and staying healthy could allow the Lady Cougars a chance to make a run this season.
“It could be whatever they want,” said Hall. “They are capable of playing with anybody. They have a no-fear mentality. They are willing to take on anybody. We still have a lot of growth to do, learning to work better with each other and working through adversity, but they have proven themselves on learning how to win some games early in this season.
“I like the fact we have been tested and found a way to win. We can look back later in the season and say, ‘Hey, we can overcome challenges.’”
Taylor Martinez is averaging 9.6 points, 4.7 rebounds and 3.3 assists per game for the Lady Cougars thus far this season, shooting 37 percent from the field, 33 percent from the three-point line and 65 percent from the free throw line.
“Her court vision is good,” said Hall about her versatile guard. “She just has a feel for the game. She knows where her teammates are at all times. She knows where they are going to be, and she anticipates. That’s something in a point guard that you want. She delivers the passes when they are open.
“Her leadership skills are off the charts. She is the one that is a positive leader every day. She is a motivator. She is the hardest worker on the team. She is a coach’s dream.”
She has scored in double figures six times, including a season-high 22 points in a fourth quarter, come-from-behind win over Calvin — coincidentally enough the day before the team received the good news about Ryan’s eligibility. She also scored 16 in a 55-53 win over 4A Northwood.
“Taylor is very determined,” said Ryan. “She wants to win. She has the need to win. She will look at me, and we know where each other is. She is very passionate about basketball.”
“Taylor’s work ethic is something we haven’t seen in a while,” said Bennett. “She takes it to another level. She pushes herself, and she pushes other people.”
Ryan is averaging 11.0 points, 7.4 rebounds, 1.5 steals and 1.0 blocks per game for the Lady Cougars while shooting 38 percent from the field so far. She has scored at least eight points in all but one contest so far with a season-high of 16 against Beekman Charter. She had 12 against Haughton and 11 against West Monroe.
“I love how she can run the floor,” said Hall. “I love how she goes to get a pass or a rebound. I love her in the high post area. I love her ability to face up to the basket and her ability to play with her back to the basket. She draws a lot of attention, and her teammates will benefit from that on the perimeter. They are also looking inside for her too.
“She is a vocal leader. She asks questions. She is constantly wanting to learn the game. She also has a great sense of humor. She brings a lot of comic relief to our team. People gravitate to her and her personality. She is fun to be around.”
Ryan is Creek’s most prominent inside force, pulling down double digit rebounds three times so far, including a season-high 14 in a win over Simsboro.
“She is a good rebounder,” said Taylor Martinez. “She knows the gaps and where she needs to be, especially off of a pick and roll drive. I know where she is going to be on the pick and roll. We both read the same thing. It’s really helpful.”
“Avery lifts everybody up,” said Bennett. “She is always a light to this team. She works her butt off. She lifts us up on the court and off the court.”
As Christmas approaches and the calendar will soon switch to 2025, Cedar Creek’s girls have their eyes set on another postseason run. They would love to become only the second team in program history to play for a state title this March.
And if they are to accomplish this feat, Taylor Martinez and Avery Ryan will be a big part of the overall team success.
“I think the biggest thing they have brought to our program is the level of communication and intensity,” said Hall. “Their leadership skills have been huge. And the wealth of knowledge and basketball IQ both of them have experienced playing at a 5A school and at elite basketball programs in the summer.”
RUSTON, La. — It was a back-and-forth struggle between the Ruston High Lady Bearcats (3-6) and the undefeated Airline Lady Vikings (7-1) Tuesday night in the Ruston High Main Gym.
With a little over two minutes to play, Airline had a four-point lead 49-45 before Ruston scored the final five points in dramatic fashion in the final 30 seconds to pull ahead for the 50-49 home victory and giving the Lady Vikings their first loss of the season.
And for Ruston High Head Coach Lashanda Cooper, Tuesday’s win was the culmination of hard work in practice, day in and day out.
“I say it all the time: it starts in practice,” Cooper said. “We just want to keep developing their competitive mindset and get them to believe in themselves and each other. I was proud of them being able to fight and compete — the situation we are in right now, we have nothing to lose. And Airline, I feel, had everything to lose. They were undefeated, and we knew coming in they were going to be a well-coached team. Right now, we’re just kind of playing without a conscience right now. It doesn’t bother us that they ranked No. 5 — we just come out and play hard no matter who we are playing against.”
Ruston High fell behind early 12-2 with 3:37 to go in the first quarter before the Lady Bearcats finished the quarter on an 8-1 run to trail 13-10. Senior Kiersynce McNeal scored four of her 19 points in the first quarter.
“With (McNeal) coming back, the chemistry is starting to pick back up,” Cooper said. “The other girls look and appreciate the big shots she takes and those big moments that she’s not afraid of, based off of her experience from last year.”
Following a back-and-forth battle in the second quarter, Ruston took its first lead of the night with 1:03 to go before the end of the half after a basket by junior Journi Douglas for a 22-21 lead.
Airline would get the lead heading into the fourth quarter and answered anytime the Lady Bearcats had a chance to retake the lead before the final seconds. Down four, McNeal hit a three-pointer with 0:36 to play, and on the ensuing possession for the Lady Vikings, Ruston would get a critical steal and fast break basket from senior Samiya Lewis with 0:16 to play.
Ruston’s defense came through in the end and held the 50-49 lead for the victory, snapping a four-game losing streak.
“They didn’t get ratted — we kept yelling at them to stay calm,” Cooper said. “For them to be able to have enough confidence, set the ball up and not get rattled — I feel like we rose above the challenge.”
The Lady Bearcats return to action against Richwood on Friday, Dec. 20.
Lady Bearcat Scoring FG(3FG)-FT=TP Kiersynce McNeal #20, Sr. 8(1)- 2-2 FT = 19 Journi Douglas #21, Jr. 2 = 4 Angelica Green, #4, Soph. 4(2) – 1-2 FT = 11 Bailee Harrison, #23, Soph 2 = 4 Jasmine Summerford #22, Sr. 2-4 FT = 2 Samiya Lewis #3, Sr. 1 – 1-2 FT = 3 Gioia Tatum #5, Soph 1 = 2 Adrianna Robinson #24, Fr. 2 – 0-1 FT = 4
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RUSTON, La. — Basketball season may be in full swing, but the Ruston Bearcats (1-4) finally had a home opener Tuesday night, and the team did not disappoint in getting a 65-40 victory in front of a raucous crowd over the Airline Vikings (2-8).
Leading 28-20 at halftime, the Bearcats outscored the Vikings 20-5 in the third quarter for the first win of the 2024-25 season, while getting a terrific performance out of sophomores Keshun Malcolm and Ahmad Hudson, who is among the football players who have returned to the hardwood.
“It was good to have a couple more bodies to go to,” Ruston High assistant coach Corey Deans said. “It was really good to get a win here this evening. We have a lot of stuff to clean up, and we’ll come back to work and fix all these things.”
Ruston fell behind by as many as seven points, trailing 14-7 in the first quarter after Airline’s senior Jaydan Gladney scored all of the Vikings 14 points opening stanza. Hudson had a couple of thunderous dunks in the first half to go along with Malcolm’s 10 points through two quarters. The Bearcats led 28-20 going into the halftime locker room.
In the third, Airline had no answer for Ruston’s offense as the Bearcats led 48-25 heading into the fourth.
Malcolm would finish with 16 points on the night, while Hudson added 15. C.J. Malone added 10. Deans said he was pleased with the way Malcolm played Tuesday given the addition of the football players back to the lineup.
“I told (Keshun) that I want him to take the same shots he’s been taking this year,” Deans said. “I don’t care if he has Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen on his team — we need him to be aggressive and try to go get 30 points a game.”
Coming back to the lineup Tuesday with Hudson were seniors Joran Parker and Fabian Stringfellow. Both seniors Zheric Hill and Aidan Anding were on the bench in street clothes due to injury concerns from football.
Ruston will play Red River in the Remington Butler Classic this weekend.
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Following Ruston High’s run to a third straight state title game appearance, the Bearcats were well represented on the all-District 2-5A team voted on by the district coaches. Senior Bearcat Linebacker Zheric Hill was named the Defensive MVP after finishing the season with 127 total tackles, two sacks and two interceptions at his position.
See below for 2024 All District 2-5A team. Ruston players in bold.
Most Valuable Players RB J.T. Lindsay, ASH LB Zheric Hill, Ruston
First Team
Offense QB Karsen Sellers, ASH FB Tanner Townsend, ASH RB Jaylon Nichols, Neville RB Macario Dade Jr., Ouachita RB Jordan Hayes, Ruston WR Derrius Washington, ASH WR Trendan Dumas, Neville WR Joran Parker, Ruston WR Trez Davis, West Monroe TE Thomas Campbell, Neville TE Ahmad Hudson, Ruston OL Caleb Purl, ASH OL Jakobie Morris, ASH OL Brayden Blade, Neville OL Elias Sellars, Pineville OL Sam Nations, Ruston OL Ty George, West Monroe ATH Wydell Clark, Ouachita K Jack Elliott, Ruston KR Aidan Anding, Ruston
Defense DT Jordan Mason, ASH DT Dylan Berymon, Ouachita DT Rakeem Potts, Ruston DE Brody Whatley, Neville DE Payton Bell, Ruston DE Tyler Roark, West Monroe LB Xavier White, ASH LB Conner Vinson, Neville LB LaMarcus Thirs, Pineville LB Parker Todd, West Monroe CB Cam Riley, Neville CB Aidan Anding, Ruston CB Orlando Webber, West Monroe S Jaden Lewis, ASH S Julian Burns, Neville S Jayden Reed, Neville S Jacob Miranda, Pinevlle Flex Robert Graves, Neville Flex Fabian Stringfellow, Ruston P Daniel Lane, West Monroe LS Daniel Cheveallier, West Monroe
Second Team
Offense QB Josh Brantley, Ruston FB Lander Smith, Ruston RB Dylone Brooks, Ruston RB Ranaldrick Myles, West Monroe RB Kedrian McNeil, West Monroe WR Jimmie Duncan, ASH WR Alex Fontenot, ASH WR Kaleb Vaughn, Neville WR Zeland Young, Neville WR Javari Lockhart, Neville TE Sam Turner, West Monroe OL Peter Lofton, ASH OL Van Martinez, Neville OL Cam Venzant, Ruston OL Hayes Fuqua, West Monroe OL Damien Sanders, West Monroe ATH Ayden Tate, Pineville K Hunter Fox, West Monroe KR Ty Sanders, Pineville
Defense
DT AJ Washington, Ouachita DT Ka’Varion Key, Ruston DT Shances Stewart, West Monroe DE Grayson Thibodaux, ASH DE Malik Grayson, Neville DE Jeremy Jones, Ouachita LB Jackson Townsend, ASH LB Jamarcus Jacobs, Ouachita LB JQ Turner, West Monroe CB Jay Frazier, ASH CB Richard White, Neville CB Donovan Shine, Ouachita CB Fabian Stringfellow, Ruston S Orlando Freemont, Ouachita S Deandre Mansfield, Ouachita S Zac Folmar, West Monroe P Joaquin Ramos, Ruston
Once heard a football coach tell his team he wanted each player to fight as if he were the third monkey on the ramp to Noah’s Ark and it had just started raining.
Old Testament encouragement. Nothing quite like it.
This is the kind of fight and fever I expect to see from Louisiana Tech when the Bulldogs take on No. 19 (AP) Army in the 48th Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl Saturday, Dec. 28, at 8:15 p.m. in Independence Stadium and on ESPN.
If ever there were a team playing with house money, it’s this Tech team, and I could not be happier for them.
Thank goodness and Walter Camp, Tech fell bass ackward into the 2024 BowlFest Ark when Marshall, the Sun Belt Champ, decided Saturday it couldn’t compete in the game. After accepting the invite last Sunday. Sigh …
(We’ve said for years this sport needs a commissioner like rice needs gravy but … whole other story.)
THIS story is that while much of the media was wearing out the Thundering (Except For In The 2024 I-Bowl) Herd for backing out, I was packaging up chocolates and roses and Slim Jims and John Denver CDs to send to Huntington, West Virginia. Taped up boxes ’til my hands bled.
Thank you, Marshall! Your administrators fumbled. Been in a similar spot, and it’s no fun. (I’m thinking of a long-departed Tech AD who said “Thanks but no thanks” to the I-Bowl in 2012, leaving the NCAA’s highest scoring offense with no bowl to play in. Some of us still haven’t fully flushed that…)
But this time, Tech at 5-7 was the beneficiary of grownups doing silly grownup things. A Bulldog team that waded upstream through a weird year gets one more chance to be together and to play together.
This Tech team lost five games by one score, three of those in overtime. Beat the Conference USA runner-up on the road, lost to the CUSA champion on a Hail Mary. Commercials for nerve pills should have run on jumbotrons and TV sets during game breaks.
But now … one more Saturday night.
Tech Coach Sonny Cumbie will address the media today (Wednesday Dec. 18) a bit after noon and have some solid information on the roster, little things like who might be playing and who might be gone, this being the day of the portal and transfers and rules that bend like willow trees in a hurricane. The suspicion is that the roster’s a liquid situation going into Tuesday night’s first bowl practice.
(Important Roster Note: The good news is that we want all of you who can to come to the game; the bad news is, you might have to play flanker or nose tackle; I’m ‘out’ as it would take me until at least Groundhog Day just to get loose.)
The early line on this game was Army by 14.5, now up to 16.5. Sounds about right. But a couple things I know and don’t have to bet on:
Tech’s defense, even minus a couple of guys, should keep this team in the game as it’s done all season, and;
Cumbie, Athletics Director Ryan Ivy and President Dr. Jim Henderson will make sure the Bulldogs are competitive. I know how much it means to them. And they know that, even coming off an upset to Navy, the Black Knights, 11-2 and American Athletic Conference Champions, would be a handful for any team this season.
But here’s the great news for you and for me as college football fans: it has never mattered who the teams were; the I-Bowl Team has never, in my experience, had an off year.
This is an organization that helps the community all year. This is a bunch of people who make sure the players and their families, year after year, have a fun few days on the river. Since its start in 1976, this is the 11th most historic bowl game and will be played in a historic stadium that’s welcomed its share of Hall of Famers and is hosted by people who work all year to give you this experience to share.
Love, love, love the Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl. A lot of us have been lucky enough to watch it grow up. Been fun. Too bad the grownups in charge of Marshall’s team made a decision that will keep those players from this once-in-a-lifetime bowl opportunity.
Marshall fumbled. Tech recovered. Let’s see what the ’Dogs can do with it.
(I-BOWL INFO: RadianceTechnologiesIndependenceBowl.com has it all, or follow the bowl on Facebook, X and Instagram at @IndyBowl. Tickets? Easy as falling off a porch: email info@independencebowl.org or call the bowl office, 318.221.0712.
Contact Teddy atteddy@latech.edu
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Two of Lincoln Parish’s girls hoops teams squared off Monday night with Cedar Creek defeating Choudrant 40-30 at CHS Gym.
Mary Grace Hawkins led the Lady Cougars (9-2) with 16 points while Taylor Martinez added six and Zoey Venters added five.
Choudrant (3-13) was led by Reese Brown with 10 points and Katherine Hernandez with eight points.
The Lady Aggies led 12-11 after the first period thanks to eight points by Hernandez. Choudrant increased its advantage to 19-17 at the half before Creek outscored the Lady Aggies 23-11 over the third and fourth quarters of action.
____________________________________
Cedar Creek Scoring: FG(3)-FT-TP
Alivia Lee 0-1-1; Mary Grace Hawkins 5(3)-3-16; Caroline James 1(1)-0-3; Mallory Smith 1(1)-0-3; Taylor Martinez 1-4-6; Zoey Venters 2-1-5; Kennedy Hall 1-0-2; Avery Ryan 2-0-4. Totals: 13(5)-9=40.
Choudrant Scoring: FG(3)-FT-TP
Zoey Smith 0-1-1; Katherine Hernandez 3(1)-1-8; Kami Young 0-2-2; Piper Jackson 2-0-4; Alyssa Bell 0-1-1; Sadie Jones 2-0-4; Reese Brown 3-4-10. Totals: 10(1)-9-30.
Today I come to you with concerns about the state of mind of so many Americans due to our recent Presidential election results and other issues. Over my 63 years of being on this earth, I’ve never seen an election carry so much weight in terms of how Americans have reacted, or should I say overreacted. I’m not here to say that your reaction was right or wrong, but rather to suggest how you might possibly move forward in life and maintain your mental wellness.
Athletes are taught very early in our careers how to handle a big win or a disappointing loss. My coaches always said that you have 24 hours to celebrate a victory or a loss. Then you must move forward and prepare for the next game. Don’t dwell on the loss of a game you can no longer play.
Another saying I’ve heard over the years, “Once the hay is in the barn, it’s time to move on to the next chore.” Well today many Americans need to move on to the next chore and exercise their right to either celebrate or stew in their loss, but only for 24 hours. Sometimes we must accept things we can no longer change or control. The first step to moving forward is accepting the results.
Whether it’s a game, an election, or in my case a bass tournament, no matter if it was a victory or a loss, I must move on and get ready for my next tournament. Sure, I’ll evaluate what maybe went wrong or how I made a bad decision on tournament day and then I’ll do my best to NOT make the same mistake moving forward.
Nothing is more important than our mental health, as it can affect not only our own personal wellness, but those around us daily. How we handle defeat or victory can impact our family and friends in a negative or positive way. It’s all about how you as an individual recognize the situation and choose to move on. But it is a choice!
Years ago, a former boss of mine gave me some great advice on how to handle “butt chewings” from the man who was the CEO of the company I worked for. This CEO was a former marine and could peel the paint off the wall once he got bent out of shape on a particular issue. He told me that you can’t control what he says to you, but you can control how you receive it.
This resonated with me, and even though I only had a couple of chewings from this CEO over my 14 years of working with him, it made a huge difference on how I reacted to him. I think my athletic background played a huge roll in how I handled any blunt critiques because a few of my coaches were famous for their hard style of coaching.
So many kids today that play athletics, don’t or can’t handle hard coaching. Kids have gotten soft in the last twenty years and take criticism personally and will often choose to walk away from the team even though the coach is only trying to make them a better player. They think the coach doesn’t like them and would rather quit the sport rather than be coached.
We, as a society and parents, need to get back to tough love with our kids and do a better job of preparing them for life’s challenges. Stop teaching them to quit just because an election, a game, or their job didn’t go the way they wanted. Teach that everybody does not get a trophy! Instead, teach them how to handle and overcome a loss, a tough coach or maybe a hot-headed boss. Teach them that you don’t play the game for the coach, you play because you love the game!
All the above has been on my heart recently now that I’ve seen how distraught some people are after the recent Presidential election. People have literally lost their minds over something they have very little control over other than a single vote. Here’s some food for thought…. no matter who is the sitting President of the United States, when we wake up tomorrow, we will still go about our daily lives and routines the same way we have for years.
While we might not ALL agree on certain polices or who is running our country, one thing is for certain; trials and tribulations are headed our way and it’s up to us as Americans on how we handle them. Tonight, when you lay down for a peaceful night’s rest, just remember, everything is going to be ok. May God bless each of you and this great nation we live in, he owes us this because we have never turned our back on him. Ha!
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Dr. Angela Odom-Austin gains the trust of her young patient
This is a Journal Services advertorial.
She’s a pediatrician who had 30 years of experience in the field even before moving back closer to home to join Lincoln Community Health Center in 2019, working with health problems and complications that arise in patients ages birth through 21.
Her name is Dr. Angela Odom-Austin, a Shreveport native who received her undergraduate degree in general biology at Dillard University in New Orleans before heading to medical school at Duke in North Carolina. In that process, she had done summer research at LSU Medical Center in Shreveport in deep tissue burns then took on intense studies of the immune system at Dillard.
“I really wanted to go to medical school,” she told the Journal, with reference to her studies of immunology. Her training was honed during those years by working in the medical field through a series of pandemics. “I was at Duke in the middle of the AIDS pandemic. Early on, people in the medical community were panicked about how you deal with handling those affected folks. But we learned.”
She said the same fear “in the early going” of COVID was witnessed. By that time, Dr. Odom had worked through AIDS, Avian flu, SARS, Ebola then COVID. “The rule is ‘First, do no harm.’ But then you must accept that we’re here to help our community. So we help others.”
The young doctor did her pediatric residency at Eastern Virginia Graduate School of Medicine (Old Dominion) and stayed in Virginia where she had family for the next 30 years with her medical practice and raising her own family.
She came to Ruston at Lincoln Community Health Center in 2019. “My mom was still living in Shreveport but getting on in age and needed me near. I wanted to get back to Louisiana.” She put out the word and Trinity Community Health Centers of Louisiana responded. “It was not quite Shreveport but close enough. Since I also have family in Grambling and as a child, I went to Girl Scouts camp there, this brings good memories. As a Federally Qualified Health Center, Trinity serves an underserved community. I’m quite happy to be here.”
Faith and church are important parts in Dr. Odom’s life. A member of New Rocky Valley Baptist Church in Grambling, she notes that during the COVID pandemic, many learned to worship online so she is able to do that occasionally with several of her churches back in Virginia.
“So what do I do outside of work?” she asks. “I enjoy looking in on the Ruston Community Men’s Shed, a place for woodworking and fellowship. Men and women get together, repair and build projects for those who need help. And they build friendships.”
