Louisiana Tech University has named Dr. Paul Jackson the new director of the School of Agricultural Sciences and Forestry. Jackson, a faculty member with more than 12 years of experience at the University, brings a wealth of knowledge, passion, and leadership to his new role.
A native of Hargis, Louisiana, Jackson has made significant contributions in both the classroom and the community. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Northwestern State University, a Master of Science in Environmental Biology from Louisiana Tech, and a Ph.D. in Horticulture from Auburn University.
Jackson has taught several plant science courses at Tech, including greenhouse management, pest management, landscape plants, and landscape design and contracting. His research focuses on tree seedling nursery management, with the goal of improving seedling quality and survival rates for successful planting.
In addition to his teaching and research, Jackson is actively involved in community outreach. He has collaborated with local organizations like the Boys and Girls Club, North Central Louisiana Master Gardeners, the Ruston Farmers Market, and area schools, reflecting his commitment to education and community engagement.
Dr. Gary Kennedy, dean of the College of Applied and Natural Sciences, praised Jackson’s appointment.
“The College of Applied and Natural Sciences is pleased to have Dr. Paul Jackson named as director of the School of Agricultural Sciences and Forestry,” Kennedy said. “He has won multiple college-level awards for his outstanding teaching and service activities and has been successful in obtaining external research funding, as well as Board of Regents Enhancement Funding that provided new equipment for the Lomax Hall greenhouses. Dr. Jackson has a broad vision for how our agricultural sciences and forestry programs can contribute to the sustainable natural resource systems that support society.”
In his personal life, Jackson enjoys spending time outdoors with his family, running, and vegetable gardening. He is married to Melissa, a speech-language pathologist with the Lincoln Parish School System. The couple has three children: Brennan, 15; Matthew, 12; and Anna Kate, 10, who attend Ruston High and A.E. Phillips School.
“I am honored to have the opportunity to serve as the director of the School of Agricultural Sciences and Forestry,” Jackson said. “We have one of the most premier agriculture and forestry programs in the region, and I look forward to working with our talented faculty and staff to make it even better. My primary focus as director will be to create an academic environment that helps students succeed in their chosen careers.”
As director, Jackson is dedicated to advancing the School of Agricultural Sciences and Forestry and fostering an innovative and collaborative learning environment for students, faculty, and the local community.
Two local organizations are once again playing key roles in the Monroe St. Jude Dream Home project, now in its 23rd year.
The Zeta Rho chapter of Epsilon Sigma Alpha continues to lead volunteer efforts, overseeing ticket processing and Open House tours, while Z107.5 serves as the exclusive radio partner.
Tickets are on sale now for the 2025 Dream Home, a three-bedroom, two-bath house valued at approximately $440,000. Built by BRACO Construction, it contains 2,400 square feet and is located at 9039 DeSiard Trace in Sterlington’s new DeSiard Trace subdivision.
In addition to the possibility of winning the house itself, ticket buyers also have a chance to win other prizes. The first purchase deadline is Friday, March 14, for the Tickets on Sale Prize – a $2,500 Visa gift card, courtesy of Assurance Financial.
Other prize deadlines are:
– Early Bird Prize, April 4 – Exmark 42-inch Zero-Turn Mower with extended warranty and maintenance plan, plus an Echo handheld package, courtesy of 3B Outdoor Equipment
– Bonus Prize, May 9 – 2025 Mazda3 Sedan Select, courtesy of Dream Day Foundation and
– Last-Chance Prize, June 6 – Generac Home Standby Generator, courtesy of Albritton Service Company.
In addition, visitors to the Open House can register free for a chance to win custom design services and furniture, valued at $10,000, courtesy of Sleepy Hollow Furniture. Dates for the Open House tours are May 24 through June 11 – Saturdays 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sundays 1-6 p.m.
Furniture staging for the Dream Home is being furnished by Sleepy Hollow. The interior designer is Jan Strickland of Strickland Interiors, of Rayville.
The winner of the house, in addition to winners of the other prizes, will be announced live June 12 on Monroe TV partner stations KTVE and KARD.
Ticket price is $100. To purchase, call 1-800-726-9874 or visit dreamhome.org. Only 8,500 tickets will be sold.
A Bastrop man was arrested near Ruston last week after drugs were found in his vehicle on a traffic stop.
The Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s Office arrested Brian Keith Adams, 37, after a deputy checked his license plate and learned the vehicle was uninsured and later smelled an overwhelming odor of marijuana coming from inside the vehicle once it was stopped.
Adams provided information showing his insurance policy had been canceled. He admitted he had a small amount of marijuana in the vehicle.
A search of the Volkswagen SUV yielded two large plastic bags of suspected marijuana weighing almost 1/4 of a pound and a suspected MDMA (ecstasy.) tablet and a box of plastic baggies and a digital scale commonly used in the distribution of narcotics.
Adams was arrested for possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, possession of MDMA (ecstasy ), possession of drug paraphernalia, no liability insurance, and open container. His bail was set at $23,000.
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.
A taste of Louisiana’s finest crawfish is right under the giant Chevron sign on Tech Drive right here in Ruston. Packed with signature seasoning and classic Louisiana flavor, U-PAK-IT’s Tech Drive Crawfish is sure to please everyone, thanks in large part to the cook Jacob Habetz, who has spent over 19 years perfecting his recipe.
At Tech Drive Crawfish, we’re all about quality and consistency. With years of experience, a perfected seasoning blend, and a dedication to freshness, Keith Brasuell, Habetz, and the rest of the team take pride in serving the best crawfish in town.
“It takes a true crawfish lover to be passionate about the process,” Habetz said. “I love crawfish and it’s always been my favorite food. I grew up in the crawfish industry – my parents had crawfish ponds since the early 90’s as a side hustle that eventually turned into a career when my dad started hauling crawfish commercially in 2000. What keeps me passionate about crawfish is all the awesome customers I have and the great people in Ruston who rely on us daily during the season.”
Come to Tech Drive Crawfish today for the highest-rated crawfish in Ruston!
The University of Louisiana Monroe (ULM) Presidential Search Committee held its inaugural meeting today, March 11, 2025, at the University Library’s 7th Floor Terrace. Convened by the University of Louisiana System Board of Supervisors, the committee is tasked with leading the national search for ULM’s next president.
The meeting began with a welcome and invocation, followed by roll call and introductions. Committee members received their official charge, emphasizing the importance of selecting a visionary leader to guide ULM into the future. The discussion then focused on outlining the search process and establishing a tentative timeline to ensure a thorough and transparent selection.
The committee also reviewed the proposed advertisement strategy to attract a diverse and highly qualified pool of candidates. A public hearing was held, allowing stakeholders to share their insights and expectations for ULM’s next president.
“The selection of a university president is one of the most critical responsibilities of our Board, and we are committed to conducting a thorough, transparent, and inclusive search process,” said UL System President Rick Gallot. “ULM is a vital institution in our System, and we are dedicated to finding a leader who will build on its strengths and guide it into a promising future.
As the search progresses, additional meetings and public forums will be scheduled to ensure continued transparency and community involvement. Updates and announcements will be available through the University of Louisiana System’s website.
The Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s Office arrested a motorist last week after he was stopped for no visible license plate and was found to be wanted on warrants.
Cameron G. Bowden, 36, of Grambling, was arrested on March 5 after a deputy saw Bowden’s Toyota was not displaying a visible license plate.
The deputy informed Bowden of the reason for the stop who apologized his temporary tag could not be seen from the window. A records check showed Bowden was wanted on two active bench warrants for failure to appear in Ruston City Court. He was placed under arrest and a search of the Toyota located a small amount of marijuana.
Bowden was booked at the Lincoln Parish Detention Center for possession of marijuana, Improper display of license plate, and the failure to appear warrants for speeding and inspired inspection sticker. Bowden’s bail was set at $10,000.
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, La. — The Ruston High Bearcats had one last chance at a tune-up before beginning district play this weekend.
They sure made it count Tuesday night at home, getting a run-rule shut out victory over a stout North DeSoto squad 10-0 at the Ruston High Baseball Field.
“Man, what a big win for the Bearcats tonight,” Ruston High Head Coach Bryan Beck said. “We had a really good start — I thought our kids responded really well to the weekend off. We had a practice on Sunday, which didn’t go that well — it was kind of cold, misty and raining. But (Monday), we had a really, really good practice, and I felt good.
“I told our kids that if we can get some good starting pitching, not make any errors, and if we do what we do on offense, whether that’s beat the ball around the park or just small-ball chaos game, then we’re going to have a chance to win a lot of ballgames. I think that’s what you’re seeing now. You’re seeing this group of kids believe in that. So hats off to our coaches and kids for getting ready to play a really, really good team.”
Ranked No. 3 currently in the Non-Select Division II power rankings, North DeSoto entered the contest with an 11-4 record on the season before Ruston’s dominant performance. The Bearcats shot out to a 3-0 lead in the bottom of the first inning, with junior Jackson Lee leading the way with a triple to start the bottom of the first. Senior Peyton Martin, who had missed the previous 10 games, made the start at short stop and singled in the next at-bat to score Lee for Ruston’s first run.
“Having Peyton Martin is a big deal for us,” Beck said. “He was out for about 10 games. He’s back with the team now. And, man, when you have a guy that’s playing up the middle for you, that has the experience he does and with what he’s able to bring in our bunt game — it’s just something you really can’t replace. We fought through those 10 games without him.”
Martin would then score two batters later on a steal to home plate to give Ruston a 2-0 lead. Senior Carter Love added a bunt single to score sophomore John Parker Moak for the third run of the inning.
Love would ground out to short stop in the bottom of the third to score Moak and get Ruston’s first of two runs in the inning. Junior Jackson Burroughs would single two-batters later to score freshman Dalen Powell from third base and give Ruston a 5-0 lead.
Ruston would score four more runs in the bottom of the fourth inning after a two-RBI double by Moak to centerfield, scoring Lee and Martin to put the Bearcats up 7-0. Junior Lander Smith would ground out in the next at bat, scoring both senior Jake Simmons and Moak for a 9-0 lead.
The Bearcats would get the final run in the bottom of the fifth inning after Lee doubled to center field and scored junior Hudson Wood.
Sophomore Tyler Roach got the start on the mound and struck out four batters in 5.0 innings pitched with no walks and no earned runs for the complete game shut out.
“I have got to give a lot of credit to (pitching coach) Doc Wilkerson — he recommended Tyler to start this game tonight,” Beck said. “(Tyler) needed this start, and he got it, man. We needed him to go five innings, and he did that for us. And since we ended up getting the run-rule in the fifth, we didn’t have to use anybody in the bullpen, which was good for us. I’m really happy for Tyler to be able to get his first varsity win as a sophomore. He really just shoved on the mound tonight and shut down a really good hitting North DeSoto team.”
Ruston will return to action Thursday, March 13, at 6 p.m. at Ouachita to open district play, and then Friday, March 14, for a home game with Natchitoches Center at 6 p.m. Finally, the Bearcats will host Ouachita Saturday, March 15, at 2 p.m. for senior night.
“We’ll enjoy this one, and we’ll be locked and loaded with all our arms ready to go,” Beck said. “We’ve got three tough ball games at the end of the week, and we’ll have our work cut out for us.
“But we’re going to enjoy this one tonight for sure.”
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.
Jalen Outley scored 15 points in Tuesday night’s loss to Lacassine. (photo by Josh McDaniel)
By T. Scott Boatright
LAKE CHARLES — In what felt like a track meet fittingly complete with a fast and furious finish, top-ranked Lacassine outlasted fourth-seeded Simsboro in the sprint down the stretch to earn a 71-64 victory in the semifinals of the Class B Boys State Basketball Playoffs Tuesday night inside Burton Coliseum.
It was a tight game from beginning to end, with the Cardinals starting strong before Simsboro moved out in front, with freshman Ahmad Smith’s coast-to-coast layup off a steal with 1.8 seconds left in the opening stanza put the Tigers on top 16-11 heading into the second quarter.
Simsboro kept pushing the pace to start the second stanza, pushing its lead to 22-11 only 1:30 into the period on a Justin Prudhomme putback.
The Tigers stretched their lead to 12 points at 24-12 on a Jaylen Outley putback at the 5:56 mark of the quarter.
Lacassine countered with a 16-4 run to tie the game at 28-28 with 52 seconds left in the first half.
Outley went to the line with 39.1 seconds on the clock and hit the first of two free-throw attempts that put the Tigers up 29-28 heading into the locker rooms at intermission.
Simsboro came out strong in the second quarter with layups by Outley and Jakaleb Modest that pushed the Tigers’ lead to 33-28 1:20 into the stanza.
Lacassine countered with a 5-0 run to tie things up at the 6:01 mark of the period, and the quarter became a back and forth slugfest from there until the Cardinals heated up with the clock winding down, taking its first lead since the first quarter on a pair of free throws with 1:19 left in the stanza.
The Cardinals added a pair of baskets in the final 20 seconds of the period to take a 46-42 advantage heading into the final eight minutes of the contest.
But Simsboro battled back to open the quarter, with an Outley putback followed by a 3-pointer by Ahmad Smith giving the Tigers a 47-46 lead with 7:15 remaining.
That would be the Tigers’ last lead of the game, not that they didn’t have opportunities racing down the stretch.
A big dagger for Simsboro came with 4:43 left in the contest when senior point guard Trumarion “Man-Man” Smith, the Tigers’ on court leader and quarterback, fouled out of the contest.
Ahmad Smith tried to keep the Tigers in it, nailing a 3-pointer that cut the Cardinals’ lead 54-52 with 4:24 remaining.
Lacassine countered with layup to extend its lead back to four points before Simsboro’s Justin Prudhomme launched a 3-point attempt from the right wing that bounced high off the front of the rim, came down and bounced off it again before rolling down through the net to cut the Cardinals’ advantage to 56-55 with 3:30 remaining.
But that’s as close as the Tigers’ would get without their co-court coach directing their offense.
Outley added a before Ahmad Smith hit another 3-pointer that kept Simsboro within striking distance at 62-66 with 2:02 left on the clock, but it wasn’t meant to be in what was only Coach Adam Wodach’s second-year overseeing the Tigers as Lacassine closed out the contest with a 5-2 run that earned the Cardinals their first title game appearance since 1976.
Ahmad Smith led the way for Simsboro with 23 points while Outley finished with 15.
Lacassine, which was led by Alex Thomas with 20 points, will battle second-seeded Avoyelles Public Charter High School on Friday night for the Class B title.
Back in the day, the closest thing we had to The Food Networkwas either “Julie” Childs French-frying up something or Grandpa Jones answering the begging question, “Hey, Grandpa, What’s for supper?” on Hee Haw.
Truly, it was the alpha and omega of foodstuffs.
Julia would be basting a hare, and Grandpa would be roasting a rabbit.
Julia would be toying with a Danish and putting sauce on something (not barbecue sauce, to be sure) while Grandpa would be stirring stewed tomatoes and boiling a hog jowl.
Thanks to the work of those lard-trained pioneers, today the culinary cat is totally and forevermore out of the bag. TheFood Network, only one year shy of 30, is all food all the time.
A word: Bliss.
I don’t like everything they cook up — Eat a cod stomach? Whoa there, buddy … I don’t know where that cod stomach’s been — but I appreciate that an entire network is devoted to one of life’s simple pleasures: Eating.
I call it The Eating Network.
Saaaaa — LUTE! (Hee Hawagain. I’m sorry…)
Our generation didn’t have The Food Networkwhen we were children, not on television. Just as well: We’d have thought all fancy food was only black and white.
But we had something better. Some of us were lucky enough to live the food network.
You remember your food network, don’t you? Back before you had to buy and cook the stuff as a grownup? (Being grown up is so dumb and stupid.) Back when all you had to do was eat it?
Life was grand …
This is my food network, in Dillon County, S.C. Why couldn’t we have had reality television then, with scratch-and-sniff (and taste) screens?
Frances Rogers’ “Berry Good Cooking Show”:Her husband, Mr. Jimmy, worked at the Esso gas station. Every shirt he owned — including his Sunday go-to meetings— had his name on it, in an oval on his pocket. The house was little and white and the kitchen inside it was tiny. But from that oven and the love of Mrs. Frances’ hands came homemade strawberry cake that made you want to skip supper and go straight to dessert. Sometimes white icing, sometimes strawberry. Served with a smile.
Muh — All Fried Chicken, All the Time:My neighbor and the mother of 12, Muh never met a chicken she couldn’t fry. They would scoot around the yard playfully all week, the chickens would, not knowing as the sun set Saturday that a few of them were a daybreak away from meeting their maker. She’d wring their necks, then fry their necks. Saw it 100 times if I saw it once. Colonel Sanders wishes he had this kind of game.
Neil Moody’s Pastry Shop: Son of Muh. (One of several.) A big boy, Neil joined the U.S. Armed Forces and they made him a … cook? We laughed, then realized someone in Army Intelligence wasn’t as dumb as he looked. Neil learned from the master — his momma and sisters. He was much more valuable to our fighting forces with a spatula in his hand instead of a bazooka.
His specialty was chicken and dumplings, which back home we call pastry. (Muh handled the chicken end, Neil the dumplings.) I can see him rolling them out on the kitchen table, thin as tissues, and cutting them into triangles. Gracious.
An Army — and America — runs on its stomach. God bless the USA. Thank you to the many caring hands that keep us all cooking.
Contact Teddy atteddy@latech.edu
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After splitting a doubleheader with Loyola Prep (W, 6-5; L, 15-5) on Sunday, the Cedar Creek Cougars dropped a 7-3 decision against St. Frederick Tuesday night.
Creek (5-11) fell behind 1-0 in the first inning, but then tied the game in the top of the third on a wild pitch that allowed Kaleb Negrotto to score. Negrotto had led the frame off when he was hit by a pitch and eventually moved into scoring position on an error and a ground out.
The Warriors answered in the bottom of the frame plating three runs and then tacking on two more in the bottom of the fourth to take a 6-1 advantage.
Negrotto led off the top of the fifth with a single and one out later, Connor Yates walked. One out later, Brett Bell drove Negrotto home with a line drive single to centerfield, cutting the deficit to 6-2. Following a Ryan Coleman single loaded the bases, Cason Floyd drew a walk to make it 6-3.
The Cougars added a run in the top of the sixth inning on a two-out fielding error by St. Frederick to close to within 6-4, but the Warriors got the run back in the bottom of the frame.
Creek threatened in the sixth as Micah Taylor walked and Floyd reached on an error with no outs. However, a double play and a strikeout ended the game.
Kade Luker took the loss, allowing four runs — three earned — on just one hit but six walks in 2.2 innings of action.
“Luker struggled with command, and we had some costly mistakes in the outfield,” said head coach Chad Yates. “We had several opportunities to tack on some more runs, but we weren’t able to get the hits.”
Bell, Coleman and Negrotto had the only hits of the game for the Cougars.
Cedar Creek will host Jonesboro-Hodge tonight at 6 p.m. and Beekman Charter Thursday at 6 p.m.
ALEXANDRIA, La. — A five-run bottom of the seventh inning propelled the Alexandria Senior High Lady Trojans (10-3, 1-0 District 2-5A) over the Ruston High Lady Bearcats (7-5, 0-1 District 2-5A) by a final score of 15-14 in the teams’ district-opening contest.
After getting up 4-0 in the top of the first, the ‘Cats did not surrender the lead until the final run in the bottom of the seventh.
“I think we got fired up after a big first inning and then maybe got complacent,” Ruston High head coach Lauren Garvie said. “ASH is not a team to do that with; they hit the ball too much. I think our pitchers did their job and got the ground balls we needed, but unfortunately we made too many errors to pull the game through.”
Freshman Aubrey Stoehr led off with a home run over the left field wall to put Ruston up 1-0 in the top of the first. After getting a single, senior Rilee Atwood scored on a bunt by senior Abby Holton and an error by ASH’s pitcher. Senior Morgan Foster tripled on the next at-bat to score Holton and put the Lady Bearcats up 3-0, who scored two batters later off of an error by the catcher for the 4-0 lead.
After a scoreless bottom of the first and a full second inning, Ruston added two more runs in the top of the third — first by a double by Foster that scored Holton from first base, who then would score on a passed ball by the catcher for a 6-0 lead.
ASH would answer with five runs in the bottom of the third, before Ruston added four more in the top of the fourth. Stoehr would score first on a Holton pop-fly to right to put the Lady Bearcats up 7-5. Both Atwood and Holton would score on the next at-bat by Foster, who bunted and reached third on an error by the ASH pitcher. Foster then scored on a wild pitch in the final at-bat of the inning, giving Ruston a 10-5 lead going into the bottom of the fourth.
ASH added three more runs in the fourth and then one more in the bottom of the fifth to cut the Lady Bearcat lead to 10-9. Atwood would give Ruston another RBI single in the top of the sixth inning to center field, scoring Stoehr who tripled in the previous at-bat for an 11-9 lead.
After another one-run inning by ASH, Ruston got three one-out runs in the top of the seventh inning. Freshman Annaliese Doss would record a sacrifice bunt first to score senior Jaiden Feeheley, with Stoehr following afterward with a line-drive double to score junior Sage Tolar from second base. Finally, Atwood doubled to right field, scoring Stoehr and putting Ruston up 14-10 heading into the bottom of the seventh, where ASH scored the five runs to get the win.
Both Stoehr and Atwood finished with three hits and two RBI’s apiece, while Foster registered two hits and two RBI’s. Atwood got the start in the circle and struck out two batters in 4.0 innings pitched.
Ruston will return to action Thursday night at home against Pineville. First pitch is set for 5 p.m.
Remember the days when you had babies, and you needed to bring so much stuff when you headed out to visit family or go on vacation? Then the day came when the kids were grown and the days of packing the entire house were over.
Anglers might be the worst group when it comes to needing something they forgot to pack. Which then means, they must find a local tackle store or place an internet order and have it drop-shipped directly to their tournament site — no matter the cost.
It never fails that whatever soft plastic bait you start catching fish on, you never have enough to get you through the tournament. But back home in your fishing man cave, you have several bags hanging on the peg board screaming, “Why did you leave me?” If you ever want to see a mini-Walmart on wheels, check out the bed of a tournament angler’s truck.
There you will find extra rods and reels, box after box of different types of crankbaits, tubs full of soft plastics organized by different brand types, baggies full of special baits, and other tackle like spool after spool of fishing line in all sizes.
You might also find a spare prop for the outboard motor, extension cords, a boat cover, spare life jackets and probably a spotlight for doing pre-rigging around the boat after dark.
It’s no different than taking a baby on the road. You need everything you can possibly pack because whatever you left at the house is exactly what you’ll need for the tournament.
This is why it’s important for anglers to make a checklist for every tournament before hitting the road. Most of the time they already have a preconceived idea as to what they might need for a particular event based on the time of year and the weather. But the checklist is crucial to bringing the right gear for the event. Without it, something will be forgotten!
While life on the road can be a joy, it can also be stressful especially when you forget to bring something that you know is critical to your success for the next tournament. But with today’s great product distribution from Tackle Warehouse, Tackle Attic, Amazon and others, the product you need is only a click away.
So many times, I have seen anglers drop-ship product to the address of the house they are staying at during the tournament. I’ve also seen tournament anglers drive for over an hour to the nearest tackle store just for a bag of worms in a specific color.
The next time you’re packing the house and loading everything into the car for your newborn child, remember, bass fishermen will do the same thing; they will leave NOTHING behind!
‘Til next time, good luck, good fishing, and make sure you have a checklist the next time you hit the road for a fishing adventure. Hopefully you won’t need the kitchen sink, as that will cost a fortune to ship!
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.
Chilaydrien Newton (#5) Photo Courtesy of Aniyah Rivers
Courtesy of GSU Athletic Communications
The Grambling State University men’s basketball team sailed to a 73-56 victory over Alabama A&M in the opening round of the 2025 Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) Tournament on Tuesday afternoon at the Gateway Center Arena.
Grambling State shot the ball exceptionally well, going 49.1 percent from the field (28-of-57), including 42.9 percent from deep (9-of-21). Defensively, the Tigers were sound, limiting the Bulldogs to 33.3 percent shooting and forcing 14 turnovers. GSU also out-rebounded AAMU 34-31.
Mikale Stevenson led a strong offensive effort, scoring a game-high 17 point on 7-of-9 shooting in the win. Stevenson also added three assists and two rebounds to his tally.
Not to be outdone, Kintavious Dozier added 16 points, six assists, two steals and two rebounds. PJ Eason was also strong, contributing 12 points, seven rebounds, two steals and an assist.
With Alabama A&M leading 3-0 early in the first half, Grambling State used a 15-3 run capped by mid-range jumper by Stevenson to take a 15-6 lead with 12:25 remaining until halftime.
Timely 3-pointers shooting from Antwan Burnett and Chilaydrien Newton helped the Tigers grow that lead to 26-12 heading into a media timeout with 7:53 on the clock.
GSU continued to outwork AAMU in the opening half, maintaining a double-digit margin for the rest of the period and taking a 41-30 lead into the locker room.
Alabama A&M cut Grambling State’s lead to eight points, 55-47, on a 3-pointer by London Riley but Stevenson quickly answered with a fadeaway corner jumper to push the Tigers cushion back to double digits, 57-47, with 7:43 to play.
GSU dominated AAMU the rest of the way, eventually opening a 73-54 lead, its largest of the game on a bucket by Chilaydrien Newton 1:23 to play.
Funeral services for William W. (Bill) Sheridan, Jr, 54, of Ruston, LA will be 10:00 A.M. Thursday, March 13, 2025, at Temple Baptist Church Chapel in Ruston, LA. Officiating the service will be Dr. Reggie Bridges. Interment will follow in Greenwood Cemetery under the direction of Kilpatrick Funeral Homes of Ruston, LA.
A visitation will be from 5:00 – 7:00 PM Wednesday, March 12, 2025, at Kilpatrick Funeral Home in Ruston, LA.
Bill was born April 15, 1970, in Ruston, LA and passed away on March 10, 2025, in Ruston following a lengthy illness.
Bill loved God, his family, his fur babies, Tech football, traveling and NASCAR. He so enjoyed and was very proud of many of his accomplishments in his life. Most notably was driving the Louisiana Tech bus for athletic purposes as well as education purposes. He likewise was proud of his Law Enforcement career and his accomplishments as a Crisis Negotiator. Bill couldn’t say enough about his Sunday School Class and how much his relationship with them meant to him at Temple Baptist Church. It brought a smile to Bill’s face when he remembered that one of his great grandfathers was one of the original Texas Rangers.
Bill is preceded in death by his mother, Mary Lewis Sheridan; sister, Elizabeth Ann Sheridan Smith; brothers-in-law, Kevin Earl Smith and Robbie Carr.
He is survived by his wife, Lisa Sheridan of Ruston; his father, Bill Sheridan, Sr and wife Emily of Ruston; nephews, Michael Earl Smith and Jeremy Ryan Smith both of Ruston; father-in-law, Willie Carr and wife Joann of Monroe; sister-in-law, Jennifer Carr of Monroe; Host of other nieces, nephews, and other family and friends and a “Special Brother” and friend Tracy Houck.
Pallbearers will be Edward Faile, Tony Squyres, Brian Vann, Ken Taft, Tracy Houck, and Shawn O’Toole.
Honorary pallbearers will be Jim Stephens, Ed Jackson, Bro. Jerry Whitman, and the Adult Media 2 Sunday School Class at Temple Baptist Church.
Funeral services for Sheria “Lynn” Spurlock, age 77 of Choudrant, LA, are scheduled for 2:00 PM, Thursday, March 13, 2025 at Owens Memorial Chapel with Bro. Barry Joyner and Bro. Mike Baldwin officiating. Burial will follow in New Hope Cemetery in Choudrant, LA under the direction of Owens Memorial Chapel Funeral Home of Ruston, LA.
Lynn was born to Grady Averitte and Norma Virginia Bagwell on June 24, 1947 in Downsville, LA, and passed away Monday, March 10, 2025 in Ruston, LA. Lynn loved spending time with her family and taking care of her husband of 57 years, Paul. She cherished all the moments she spent with her family in which will miss her tremendously. Lynn enjoyed breadmaking and making desserts. She was a member of New Hope Baptist Church for over 50 years.
Lynn was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Jimmy Averitte; and sisters, Bertha Marie Green, Pat Holloway, and Sue Borden Those left to cherish her memories are husband, Paul Spurlock of Choudrant, LA; son, Gary Spurlock and wife Danielle of Downsville, LA; Grandsons, Zachary Paul Spurlock, and Adam Wayne Spurlock and fiancé Laney, all of Downsville; great-grandchildren, Ireland Katherine Spurlock, and Dean Matthew Spurlock; sister, LaRuth Jones of Houston, TX; sister-in-law’s, Judy Averitte of Choudrant, LA , Sharon Duty and husband Kenneth of Farmerville, LA, and D’Wanna Spurlock of Choudrant, LA; brother-in-law, Ron Holloway of Farmerville, LA; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, and a host of friends, including her Best Friend, Gayle Pylant.
Visitation will be held from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM, Wednesday, March 12, 2025 at Owens Memorial Chapel in Ruston, LA. To leave an online message for the family, please visit: http://www.owensmemorialfuneralhome.com
Sheria “Lynn” Spurlock June 24, 1947 – March 10, 2025 Visitation: Wednesday, March 12, 2025, 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM, Owens Memorial Chapel Funeral Service: Thursday, March 13, 2025, 2:00 PM, Owens Memorial Chapel
Gerald E. Wall February 19, 1941 – March 9, 2025 Memorial service: 1:00 PM, Friday, March 14, 2025 at Owens Memorial Chapel
Martha Bailey Smith November 29, 1944 – March 6, 2025 Visitation: Temple Baptist Church Chapel, Thursday, March 13, 2025, 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm Service: Ebenezer Baptist Church, Friday, March 14, 2025, 10:00 am
The Ruston Fire Department is offering an exciting opportunity for community members interested in learning more about the fire service.
Residents aged 18 and older are invited to participate in the “Citizen’s Academy,” a program designed to provide an up-close look at the daily responsibilities of firefighters and emergency responders.
The six-week course will be held on Tuesday evenings from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Ruston Fire Station. It serves as a valuable learning opportunity for both participants and fire department personnel. Attendees will gain a firsthand insight into fire department operations and emergency response procedures while gaining applicable skills for handling emergencies. At the same time, firefighters will have the opportunity to gather feedback from the community to better their community service and engagement.
Ruston Fire Department Director of EMS, David Wells, shared the department’s vision for the program and its potential impact.
“We hope that this will provide a positive impact on our community and our firefighters by continuing to strengthen our bond while educating community members about public safety services,” Wells said. “We are hoping to gather a diverse group of attendees for the program to represent our community and deliver a wide range of course materials during the citizen academy.”
Participants will take part in various demonstrations and discussions related to fire and EMS safety, as well as rescue techniques. Some of the course topics include fire streams for fire suppression, firefighter equipment orientation, aerial operations, vehicle rescue extrication, and lifesaving emergency medical services.
Participants will receive a custom T-shirt at the beginning of the course to wear to classes. Upon completion of the program, they will also be presented with a certification by the fire chief at a special graduation ceremony. Also, during the graduation ceremony, will be “Dinner with the Crew,” where participants will enjoy a firehouse-cooked meal alongside Ruston’s firefighters, experiencing a unique glimpse into station life.
The Citizen’s Academy is not just for those considering a career in fire or EMS. The program welcomes adults of all ages who are curious about how the fire department operates and want to gain a better understanding of the work that firefighters do to keep the community safe. Whether participants are looking for a possible career path or just a learning experience, the program offers a look into the daily operations of local emergency responders.
Main Street Director and Community Coordinator for the City of Ruston, Amy Stegall, emphasized how the program will offer a unique experience for anyone in the community.
“The Ruston Fire Department’s Citizens Academy serves as a connection between the community and the fire department, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the essential work that keeps us safe,” Stegall said. “This hands-on experience provides participants with an up-close view of the department’s operations, promising an exciting and enjoyable learning opportunity.
The Ruston Fire Department hopes the Citizen’s Academy will create stronger relationships between firefighters and residents, leading to a safer and more informed community. Those interested in participating can find the registration at Ruston Fire Department Citizen Academy Registration.
The Allstate HBCU Legacy Bowl states that its mission is to showcase and support HBCU football players and students as it aims to create opportunities for HBCU athletes to get noticed by NFL scouts and for HBCU students to network with employers.
For more than 50 Grambling State University students who recently traveled to New Orleans for the 2025 Legacy Bowl Career Fair, it was mission accomplished. GSU Center for Career and Professional Development (CCPD) Director Antoinette Livingston said the trip provided four key opportunities for GSU students — internships, employment, networking, and learning.
“The Legacy Bowl Career Fair is invaluable for students, especially juniors and seniors. Juniors focused on networking for future internships, while seniors aimed to secure job offers,” Livingston said. “Feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. More experienced students appreciate the direct interaction with professionals who provide real-world insights on resumes, interviews, and industry standards.”
“Sophomores who attended for the first time this semester could experience the dall for them. They noted that the fair helped demystify the professional world, giving them a clearer picture of what to expect in various industries. Additionally, the Legacy Bowl Career Fair has been instrumental in building confidence and providing valuable contacts that could lead to future opportunities.”
Former Grambling State quarterbacking greats James “Shack” Harris and Doug Williams co-founded both the Black College Football Hall of Fame and the Legacy Bowl, and both feel that the Career Fair is an important component of the overall bowl experience they had in mind when creating the HBCU All-Star contest.
“I really think the Career Fair is the most important part of the Legacy Bowl,” Williams said. “We started the Legacy Bowl to give the kids a chance for the scouts to see them as a player. But we also know not everybody is going to move on to the National Football League, and with the job fair and all the companies here, the kids get a chance to interview with and maybe catch on with one of these companies.
“That’s the most important of this week — that Career Fair with more than 100 businesses accepting resumes and talking to potential employees. And talking football, 11 (NFL) teams are here (interviewing prospective staff members), nine basketball teams are here, so if a student wants a career working in sports, that opportunity is here, too. But at the end of the day, there’s all kinds of jobs available here and that creates a better future for everyone.”
Livingston said the variety of learning experiences and opportunities is what makes the Legacy Bowl Career Fair so important for students.
“This career fair is significant for juniors and seniors, as it assists juniors in establishing connections for internships and aids seniors in securing job offers,” Livingston said.
“For sophomores, it serves as a valuable introduction to the career fair landscape, providing hands-on experience with essential issues such as appropriate conduct, attire, preparatory knowledge, and how to effectively translate skills and classroom experiences into meaningful conversations.”
The topics of panel discussions held during the Legacy Bowl Career Fair included Careers In The NFL, Navigating Your Career Choice, Skills Based Hiring, Empower Your Career, Networking For Career Growth, and From Intern to Full Time.”
The students not only got the opportunity to talk with prospective employers and business leaders from more than 100 businesses from across the nation but also got to meet and network with some of the more than 900 students from 56 HBCUs that had students in attendance for the Career Fair.
“It enriches their perspective and broadens their understanding of the diverse professional landscapes they may enter,” Livingston said about the interaction between students from other HBCUs. “The fair not only opens doors to potential career paths but also fosters a sense of camaraderie and shared experience among students from various backgrounds and institutions.
“Engaging with peers from other Historically Black Colleges and Universities helps our students build a wider network, exchange ideas, and gain inspiration from different viewpoints and experiences. This interaction promotes a collaborative spirit and can lead to lifelong professional relationships and friendships beyond their college years.
Getting to meet with members of the Crescent City Chapter of the Grambling University National Alumni Association was another opportunity Livingston said she was pleased to see the GSU students receive.
“An extra event hosted by the Grambling University National Alumni Association enhanced this year’s Legacy Bowl trip,” Livingston said. “Gaining support from alumni and discovering the resources available to students added significant value to the traditional experience. The alumni gathering on Friday night was a highlight for many, providing a relaxed atmosphere for students to connect with alumni.
“This event fostered mentorship opportunities and valuable networking, allowing students to gain insights from past graduates. Together, the Legacy Bowl Career Fair and the alumni event offered essential tools and connections for students’ future success.”
That alumni event allowed the GSU students the opportunity to kick back and have some true New Orleans-inspired good times complete with Crescent City cuisine and even an impromptu step show/dance off.
“The evening’s festivities allowed the students to unwind and recharge after such a demanding day,” Livingston said. “It was a wonderful opportunity for them to relax and bond with their peers in a more informal setting. The mini step show and line dancing offered a fun cultural experience that entertained and brought everyone together, fostering a sense of community and school spirit.
“Moreover, having the chance to interact with alumni in a casual atmosphere made it easier for students to ask questions and seek advice, which they might have hesitated to do in a more formal setting. This blend of fun and networking was invaluable, adding a layer of enjoyment and relationship-building to the weekend’s events. Overall, the evening was both refreshing and enriching, providing a perfect balance to the rigors of the career fair earlier in the day.”
LAKE CHARLES — After leading the previous three quarters entirely, fourth-seeded Lincoln Prep lost control in the fourth Monday afternoon as Southern Lab rallied for a 51-46 win over the Panthers in semifinals action of the LHSAA Div. I Select School boys basketball playoffs inside Burton Coliseum.
Lincoln Prep had led by as many as 10 points at 25-15 with 5:31 remaining in the third quarter and still led by eight at 29-21 with 2:04 left in the stanza.
But then momentum seemed to seep away from the Panthers as the Kittens ended the quarter with a 7-0 run punctuated by a long 3-pointer by Brown that fell through the net an instant before the horn sounded, making the score 29-28 heading into the fourth quarter.
And despite having an obvious smaller bench in terms of numbers, the Kittens were still fresh heading into the fourth quarter.
That’s because after Southern Lab cut Lincoln Prep’s lead to 17-15 with 4:27 mark of the second quarter after trailing by five earlier in the stanza, when the Kittens took their next possession, they held the ball.
Lincoln Prep stayed back in a 2-3 zone and the Kittens’ point guard just held the ball … for nearly four minutes, until the game clock hit the 30 second mark, before finally dribbling to start a play.
Southern Lab didn’t score as it remained 17-15 at halftime, but taking the air out of the ball at that point seemingly set up a fast and furious finish in the fourth quarter.
And it didn’t take long into that stanza to realize that the Kittens were still riding the momentum gained by the buzzer-beating 3-pointer at the end of the third quarter.
The Kittens earned their first tie of the contest at 33-33 with 6:10 left on the clock.
They then took their first lead of the game 25 seconds later.
By the time the Panthers scored their next basket, they were down 39-35 after Devin Burton’s layup with 4:20 left.
And they never got any closer than four points behind the Kittens the rest of the contest.
“We just didn’t execute when we needed to the most,” Hudson said. “It just got away from us. (Southern Lab) just got the momentum in the fourth quarter and turned things the other way.
“I’m proud of this team. I think we all wanted this for my seniors who went to state every year of their high school careers. We want to be back next year. I’ve got to work on finding a way to go all the way when we do.”
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Grambling Police are searching for a man wanted in connection to a number of felony charges including rape and kidnapping.
Authorities hold arrest warrants for Ladeteric L. Shelbon, Jr., 39, of Farmerville, charging him with first degree rape, second degree kidnapping, false imprisonment, domestic abuse battery with strangulation, and child endangerment.
A flyer disseminated by Grambling Police notes Shelbon should be considered armed and dangerous.
Officers were sent to a Nutmeg Drive residence at about 6 p.m. Feb. 28 regarding to a possible domestic battery and found a 34-year-old female with several injuries.
According to Grambling Police, Shelbon showed up unannounced at a Nutmeg Drive residence Feb. 28. A violent attack on the 34-year-old victim left her injured.
Shelbon is well-known to the local criminal justice system.
In January 2024, Shelbon pled guilty to domestic abuse aggravated assault with child endangerment and domestic abuse battery amended from domestic abuse battery-second offense. he was sentenced to six months in the Union Parish jail but was given credit for time already in jail.
In August 2023, Shelbon pled guilty to simple kidnapping in Lincoln Parish. He was sentenced to three years in prison, but with a partially suspended sentence, credit for time served, and probation terms, it is unclear how much, if any, time Shelbon actually served. Charges of domestic abuse battery and violation of a protective order were dismissed as part of that plea.
Earlier in 2023, Shelbon pled guilty to attempted violation of a protective order and placed on probation. He apparently violated the conditions of his probation and was ordered to complete the original sentence which was a fine of $500 and a suspended six-month jail sentence.
Anyone with information on Shelbon’s whereabouts is asked to called Grambling Police at (318) 247-3771, 911, or Crime Stoppers at (318) 255-1111.
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A Ruston man was arrested last week after he allegedly committed a battery on his girlfriend.
David L. Walker, 36, was arrested March 5 for domestic abuse battery by strangulation after a woman reported he had battered her.
Ruston Police responded to a Louanne Avenue residence where the reported victim said Walker asked to see her phone and then accused her of cheating on him. She said Walker approached her in an aggressive manner, causing her to retreat for fear of being attacked.
The woman said as she was walking away from Walker, he grabbed her by the throat and pushed her into a wall. When she threatened to call the police, he fled the residence.
About one hour later, Walker returned to the residence and police responded again and interviewed him. Walker said he only put his hands on the woman in his own defense as she was the one charging at him.
Police found bruising and a small laceration on the woman’s neck and saw no physical injuries on Walker. He was arrested and booked at the Lincoln Parish Detention Center.
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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Ten years ago, I took part in my last 5K run. (I mostly walked!) It was during the Jonquil Jubilee in Gibsland.
An interesting thing happened to those participating in the run/walk. The race started and the runners shot out quickly, as runners will do. The walkers were not as quick off the starting blocks. As I looked down Main Street there were 5k green shirts wearing people gathered by the railroad tracks, stopped. The arms of the train signals had gone down. The train appeared very quickly.
As the 5K was starting a train blocked the race. A freight train will slow you down every time. The race ground to a halt through no fault of the participants. I wondered if they would receive bonus points for waiting on the train. The train didn’t take long to go through town and the runners and walkers were off again on their race. The race stopped because the path was blocked.
During Lent we usually read about the temptation of Jesus in the wilderness. In the Greek the word for devil is diabolos. The literal translation of that word is that which “throws across the path.” What if that metaphoric closed door, severe weather event, unplanned sickness or surgery, or train across the race route is a test to see what we do when something is “thrown across our path?” Will you complete the race of faith?
I think our faith would be much more vibrant if we stopped living by cross-stitched slogans and began living by the scriptural truth. I suppose I have seen too many children of God thrown off track by the train that cuts through the racecourse. We might call it a time of trial, temptation or suffering. What has been thrown across your path? Before you look for that other opened window, or detour off your path consider the words of the Apostle Paul:
“And not only that, but we also boast in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not disappoint us, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit that has been given to us.” Romans 5: 3-5 NRSV
Maybe you are called to stick to your guns, don’t detour or yield to the temptation of quitting but remain faithful as you “run with perseverance the race that is set before you.”
Staying on the course because the race is not over, is called being faithful.
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