By Kyle Roberts

RUSTON, La. — The Lincoln Parish School Board met for its March 2025 gathering to honor Ruston High School’s National Merit Finalists and set a week in April to honor support personnel in the parish among other items.

The meeting was opened up with the RHS National Merit Finalists in Anhaar Wasi, Cedric Serio, Lydia Watts and Carter Tims, who were presented with plaques for there accomplishments.

“We definitely wanted to congratulate our national merit finalists,” Lincoln Parish School Board Superintendent Ricky Durrett said. “Becoming a national merit finalist takes hard work on the part of the student, teachers, schools, and great support from their parents. We appreciate the job everybody does with the students and congratulations on a great honor.”

Lincoln Parish Schools Auxiliary Supervisor Ricky Edmiston the proposed a resolution to designate April 22-25, 2025, as Support Personnel Week. The vote was passed.

“Each year, we recognize the importance of support personnel in our district,” Edmiston said. “This would include school bus operators, food service employees, custodians, secretaries, clerical personnel, teacher aides, bus aides, maintenance technicians, paraprofessionals, and others that are vital to the efficient operation of our school system.”

Durrett, too, agreed that support personnel are essential and deserve to have a week of recognition.

“We always want to say a big thank you to our support personnel,” Durrett said. “These are some of the first people that our kids see every morning coming to school and are the people who do so much behind the scenes to make the day go at our schools so the kids can learn in the classroom.”

The board also approved a policy revision regarding wearable technology (i.e., smart watches) capable of sending or receiving text messages and other notifications during instructional time. Students will not be allowed to wear or utilize the watches during instructional time but can keep them in their backpacks as long as they are turned off.

See below for additional information about the Nation Merit Scholarship Program.

Steps in the 2025 Competition

Over 1.3 million juniors in about 21,000 high schools entered the 2025 National Merit Scholarship Program by taking the 2023 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT®), which served as an initial screen of program entrants. The nationwide pool of Semifinalists, representing less than one percent of U.S. high school seniors, includes the highest-scoring entrants in each state. The number of Semifinalists in a state is proportional to the state’s percentage of the national total of graduating seniors.

To become a Finalist, the Semifinalist and a high school official must submit a detailed scholarship application, in which they provide information about the Semifinalist’s academic record, participation in school and community activities, demonstrated leadership abilities, employment, and honors and awards received. A Semifinalist must have an outstanding academic record throughout high school, be endorsed and recommended by a high school official, write an essay, and earn SAT® or ACT® scores that confirm the student’s earlier performance on the qualifying test.

From over 16,000 Semifinalists, more than 15,000 are expected to advance to the Finalist level, and in February they will be notified of this designation. All National Merit Scholarship winners will be selected from this group of Finalists. Merit Scholar designees are selected on the basis of their skills, accomplishments, and potential for success in rigorous college studies, without regard to gender, race, ethnic origin, or religious preference.

National Merit Scholarships

Three types of National Merit Scholarships will be offered in the spring of 2025. Every Finalist will compete for one of 2,500 National Merit® $2500 Scholarships that will be awarded on a state-representational basis. About 770 corporate-sponsored Merit Scholarship awards will be provided by approximately 130 corporations and business organizations for Finalists who meet their specified criteria, such as children of the grantor’s employees or residents of communities where sponsor plants or offices are located. In addition, about 150 colleges and universities are expected to finance some 3,600 college-sponsored Merit Scholarship awards for Finalists who will attend the sponsor institution.

National Merit Scholarship winners of 2025 will be announced in four nationwide news releases beginning in April and concluding in July. These scholarship recipients will join more than 382,000 other distinguished young people who have earned the Merit Scholar title.

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By T. Scott Boatright

 

Renaming of Huckleberry Trails Park and appointing a new member of the Planning and Zoning Commission were key orders of business as the Ruston City Council held its March meeting Monday evening at City Hall.

The 23-acre park on Magnolia Drive, adjacent to Cypress Springs Elementary School is now known as Huckleberry Trails Marie Riggs Park in honor of the former Ruston City Councilwoman who spearheaded the creation of the park.

“(Current District 5 Councilman) Bruce Siegmund made the suggestion and I thought it was a great one,” said Mayor Ronny Walker. “Marie Riggs absolutely loved Ruston and her district, which was the Cypress Springs area. So we’re just trying to honor her for all of her hard work over the years. She was around for the start of projects that are getting done now, like the new fire station being built now.

Riggs served as Ruston’s District 5 City Council representative from January of 2003 to December of 2014.

“I told her that I appreciate all of the hard work she did in making sure that park got put there,” Siegmund said. “I enjoy the park. I like to walk on the trails that are there. A lot of other people do, too. It’s just a blessing to have it there and without her, we wouldn’t have it, so I hope this is something that honors her legacy for quite some time.”

The Council also appointed Doug Postel to the city’s Planning and Zoning Commission.

“All of us know Doug well and Julie Mays has resigned, so we’re asking Doug to come on and fill that spot,” Walker said. 

Ruston’s City Council also approved a resolution authorizing the city to accept South Monroe Street, West Texas Avenue, West Louisiana Avenue and Oil Mill Street.

“This is procedural for the (Louisiana Department of Development and Transportation),” said city Public Works Director John Freeman. “The city had entered into a build grant with the Department of Transportation to fund and construct this. Amethyst was awarded the low bid to construct these streets and we’re driving on them today.

“So we need this final piece of paper to accept it and promote it to the next level.”

Ruston’s Board of Aldermen also approved a resolution authorizing the city to enter into an Agreement with the state DOTD for improvements at the Ruston Regional Airport/ for taxi lane extension and apron extension.

Freeman said the airport is 100% funded by federal and state monies.

Also approved was an ordinance amending Chapter 29 of the Code of Ordinances for the city of Ruston  by changing certain Zoning District Boundaries provided for therein for approval of a preliminary plate for the Russ Town Crossing.

The move rezones the 9.65-acre Russ Town Crossing property from B-4, Highway Business District; and B-3, General Business District to PUD, Planned Unit Development for a proposed new townhouse development (114 townhouses in 30 buildings) off Tech Drive.

Ruston’s City Council also approved an ordinance adopting amendments for the period of Oct. 1, 2023 through Sept. 30, 2024 to the annual Budget and Revenues for the Fiscal Year Oct. 1, 2023 through Sept. 20, 2024 for the city of Ruston.

The City Council also introduced a pair of potential zoning ordinances that will likely be discussed and voted on during its April meeting.

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A Ruston man was arrested last Monday after he was stopped by a Louisiana state trooper for not wearing a seatbelt and a subsequent search located marijuana.

Ja’laen R. Bonner, 22, was stopped on South Vernon Street about 3:30 p.m. Feb. 24. While speaking to Bonner, the trooper detected the odor of marijuana coming from Thomas and his vehicle. When asked if he had any marijuana in the vehicle, Thomas stated he did.

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During a search of the vehicle, the trooper located a plastic bag containing approximately 5 grams of suspected marijuana in the center console. An additional 47 grams of marijuana was found concealed in a cereal box hidden underneath the backseat of the vehicle. The marijuana in the cereal box was divided into two bags. The box also contained empty clear plastic bags and a digital scale used in drug trafficking. Bonner claimed ownership of the marijuana.

The trooper found a large sum of currency in his Bonner’s pants pocket.

Bonner was booked at the Lincoln Parish Detention Center for possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, expired inspection sticker, expired license plate, and no seatbelt. His bail was set at $5,000.

This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named or shown in photographs or video as suspects in a criminal investigation, or arrested and charged with a crime, have not been convicted of any criminal offense and are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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.

by Hanna Singh

Cedar Creek’s DECA chapter once again demonstrated excellence at the Louisiana DECA State Career Development Conference in Baton Rouge on February 23.  

At the conference, 40 students competed against around 500 from other schools over a two-day period. Despite the large competition, Cedar Creek earned a number of student awards along with several outstanding club achievements for their hard work and professionalism.

The Louisiana DECA program focuses on preparing emerging leaders and entrepreneurs by offering community-oriented, professional, and academic focused opportunities for students. Their mission states that “DECA prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality, and management in high schools and colleges around the globe.”

Hope Merchant, Cedar Creek’s Director of Development and DECA sponsor, expressed her pride in the students’ commitment.

“It is such a blessing to be able to work with such a wonderful group of young adults,” said Merchant. “Their hard work and dedication are unmatched. Being able to celebrate their accomplishments at the state conference year after year is so rewarding for me as a sponsor, and I am beyond proud of all of them.”

Of the 40 competitors from Cedar Creek, 24 students earned finalist spots, with 10 qualifying for the International Career Development Conference this April. To compete, students had to either take a test and present a role-play scenario to a judge or develop an extensive 20-page business plan or marketing campaign to be presented.

Their teamwork and dedication were recognized with multiple chapter achievements, including the Outstanding Chapter Award. They also received the Outstanding Advisor Award, which was presented to sponsors, Hope Merchant and Caty Simmons. Cedar Creek’s DECA chapter made an enormous philanthropic impact, raising more money for the DECA’s national philanthropy, the Muscular Dystrophy Association, than any other chapter in Louisiana.

The students who earned finalist spots in their categories include:

Finalists (Top 6):

• Rosemary Sewell and Taylor Basham – Business Law and Ethics Team Decision Making
• Britton Bennett, Emma Phillips, and Ruybe Ann Walsworth – Integrated Marketing Campaign
• Allie Jones and Ella Eagles – Entrepreneurship Start-Up Business Plan
• James Myers – Personal Financial Literacy Event
• Katherine Worthey – Apparel and Accessories Marketing
• Triston Floyd – Automotive Services
• Zoey Venters – Food Marketing
• Aubrey Singleton – Food Marketing
• Carter Lewis – Principles of Entrepreneurship
• Anderson Godlewski and Carter Lewis – Virtual Business Challenge – Hotel

Finalists and ICDC Qualifiers (Top 3):

• Amelia Reynolds – 1st Place, Business Operations Research Event
• Anna Grace Johnson, Zoey Venters, and Mada Kneeland – 2nd Place, Community Giving Project
• Anderson Godlewski and Audrey Barron – 2nd Place, Integrated Marketing Campaign
• Julianne Bush – 2nd Place, Professional Selling Event
• Rex Freling – 2nd Place, Marketing Communications
• Nolan Martin – 1st Place, Quick Serve Restaurant Marketing
• Jillian Ramsey – 3rd Place, Restaurant and Food Service Marketing
• Anna Grace Johnson – 2nd Place, Retail Marketing

Test Competency Award Recipients:

• Rex Freling
• Carter Lewis
• Nolan Martin
• Aubrey Singleton

The national finalists will prepare to compete at the International Career Development Conference in Orlando, Florida this April.

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This is an advertorial

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.

Crawfish will be hot and ready To Go daily:

Monday – Friday: 4 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Saturday – Sunday: 1 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

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!

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A Ruston man was arrested last Monday on drug and traffic charges after he was stopped by a Lincoln Parish deputy.

Nicholas T. Stringfellow, 30, was stopped for an expired license plate just after midnight on February 24. A record check also showed the vehicle was not insured.

The odor of marijuana was detected by the deputy when he spoke to Stringfellow. A small amount of suspected marijuana was located in the driver‘s door pocket and in the ashtray of the center console. An unlabeled bottle containing two tablets of oxycodone with acetaminophen was also found in the console.

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Stringfellow was arrested and his vehicle was towed due to no insurance and no vehicle registration. While he was being booked at the Lincoln Parish Detention Center, Stringfellow said he was not prescribed any medication, further indicating the oxycodone was not possessed by legal means. He was booked for possession of a Schedule II controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, expired inspection, sticker, open alcohol container in vehicle, expired vehicle registration, and no liability insurance. His bail was set at $2,500.

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.

by Malcolm Butler

Cedar Creek is one win away from playing for a state title in girls basketball.

The Lady Cougars departed Ruston Tuesday morning, heading to Hammond where the No. 2 seed will face the No. 3 seed JS Clark Academy. Tipoff at University Center on the campus of Southeastern Louisiana is set for 1 p.m. today.

Head coach Katie Hall and Co. put their 16-game winning streak on the line. The Lady Cougars (28-3) advanced to the Sweet 16 by virtue of a 59-24 win over St. Frederick and a 47-28 win over Hamilton Christian. 

The Lady Cougars have recorded some impressive wins this year, including victories over two teams who have already advanced to their state title game in Arcadia (NonSelect DIV) and Summerfield (Class C). However, Hall said JS Clark provides one of the biggest challenges to date.

“They have a dynamic point guard (in Taylor Barnaba) that is a lefty that will be tough to guard,” said Hall. “We have to try to contain her from getting loose. She can shoot. She can dish. She can get to the paint. She has a really great all around game. We haven’t faced a point guard of this caliber this year.

“They have solid post players on the inside. The have a shooter on the outside. They are a really good team. We wouldn’t expect anything less.”

JS Clark Academy (24-8), located in Opelousas, advanced to Hammond by defeating Westminster Christian (68-27) and Ascension Catholic (64-36).  The Bulldogs have won nine straight since losing back-to-back games to Class 5A Walker and Parkway, the top two ranked teams in NonSelect Division I.

For much of the season, Cedar Creek has had an advantage on the inside with junior Avery Ryan. The 6-foot-2-inch Ryan possesses brute strength and the ability to score, rebound and defend at a high level, a combination that has given the Lady Cougars the advantage in most of their outings. 

“I like how we match up inside, but we have to be able to block out,” said Hall. “We have gotten away with having some sloppy, undisciplined habits when it comes to blocking out and we have to do a better job with that. They are athletic and they will crash the boards. We can’t just try to outjump them.”

The Lady Cougars have practiced the last few days in college arenas in order to prepare for the bigger court they will face at Southeastern, using both Louisiana Tech and Grambling State’s facilities. Hall said she isn’t 100 percent what her team will see defensively against JS Clark Academy, but feels they should be ready for a variety of looks. 

“They are going to press full-court, 2-2-1,” said Hall. “They are going to play man. And they will play some zone. We have seen it all this year so our girls shouldn’t be surprised. They should be confident knowing we’ve seen it and can handle it.”

The winner of the contest will face the winner of No. 1 seed Southern Lab vs. No. 5 seed Ouachita Christian, a game that will tip at 2:45 p.m. 

The title game is set for Saturday at 12 p.m. 

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By T. Scott Boatright

 

SIMSBORO — Sometimes an athletic team simply comes out firing on all cylinders.

It’s even better when they’re doing so in the midst of a playoff run.

Consider the Simsboro High School boys basketball team stands primed after rolling to a 75-37 win over Lincoln Parish rival Choudrant in second-round action of the Class B Boys Basketball Playoffs inside the SHS Gym.

The fourth-seeded Tigers checked all the boxes a winning team needs in their methodical win over the 13th-seeded Aggies.

An offensive juggernaut that can score from any spot on the floor at any time? Check.

And a smothering pressure defense forcing numerous turnovers converted into offensive scores? Check again.

OK. How about a spectacular play that ignites the crowd and starts an early celebration? Check that box off, too.

The Tigers had it all during Tuesday’s win over Choudrant, with Jalen Outley’s thunderous dunk with time winding down in the third quarter starting an eight-minute celebration for Simsboro throughout the fourth quarter thanks to a running clock.

It’s no surprise that Ahmad Smith led the Tigers in scoring with 18 points. Simsboro has multiple players capable of pouring in plenty of points on any given night.

But it was the pure power Outley used to slam the ball through the rim into the nets that brought a crowd that was already standing room only to its feet.

“We’ve been trying to get him to do that all season,” SHS coach Adam Wodach said of Outley’s dunk. “And wow, he did it tonight.

“That surprised me. He probably surprised himself. Seeing the crowd respond and explode because of it was amazing. It was what high school playoff basketball is all about. That was a good win, a big win against a good basketball team, and everyone on the bench got to play in it. 

Simsboro opened the game on an 8-0 run that included a Jakelab Modest layup off a pass from point guard Trumarion “Man-Man” Smith, a running jumper by the “Man-Man” himself, a Justin Prudhomme arching jumper from inside the key and a “Man-Man” layup off a near full-court assist from Modest.

Choudrant’s first score came on a Benton Case jump at the 5:08 mark of the opening stanza as the Tigers 14-4 to close out the period from there.

And the Tigers closed out the second quarter with a “Man-Man” layup off a pass from Jeremiah Levingston with 9.6 seconds on the clock that gave Simsboro a 41-15 halftime advantage.

They extended their lead to 64-28 as Outley closed out the third quarter with his slam to remember.

The loss didn’t stop Aggies coach Ryan Smith from feeling strong about his team’s future.

“I’m just so proud of the progress this team made since the start of the season into the playoffs,” the CHS coach said. “We started the season pretty bad, so for them just to get us into the playoffs says a lot about the future. But I do feel bad for our three seniors (Logan Batterton, Tucker Batterton and Braden Soto).

“This team had to face some adversity before coming over here. And they fought from start to finish against a very good team. This isn’t the ending we wanted. But there’s also some excitement in the way we finished this season and the fact that with so many players coming back should mean bigger and better things for us next season.”

Jackson Ambrose led the Aggies with 10 points on the night while Tucker Batterton added nine.

Modest added 18 points for the Tigers while Outley chipped in with 12, Justin Terrel totaled 10 and “Man-Man” hit for eight.

“One game at a time,” Wodach said. “That’s all we’re thinking about. All we’re focusing on.

“Because none of it matters if we don’t earn our ultimate goal. Tonight was a good step. But we’re not done yet. Not even close to done.”

Next up for Simsboro will be a home game against fifth-seeded Hicks (a 64-55 winner over 12th-seeded Doyline on Monday night) in a game expected to be played on Friday.

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by Malcolm Butler

Down 23 points late in the third quarter on the road against No. 5 seed Vermilion Catholic, things looked pretty bleak for No. 12 seed Cedar Creek.

Evidently, the Cougars (15-9) had the Screaming Eagles right where they wanted them.

Behind 28 points from Jake Terry and 14 points from Cannon Robbins, Cedar Creek outscored Vermillion Catholic by 32 points the rest of the way in winning 57-48 and advancing to the quarterfinals.

Creek will travel to face No. 4 seed Hamilton Christian Friday for a 6:30 p.m. tipoff with a chance to advance to Marsh Madness in Lake Charles on the line.

“I think the message was we feel like we should win this game,” said Cedar Creek head coach Lance Waldron. “We have to go and take it. That’s what we did. The players really stepped up. They showed grit and determination. 

“We just started playing. We started playing together and passing the ball. We started finding the open man. We were playing harder on defense to make things happen.”

Trailing 36-13 about midway through the third quarter, the Cougars began to turn up the heat on both ends of the floor. 

After scoring just 11 points in the first two quarters (Creek trailed 22-11 at the half) and being outscored 14-2 to start the third quarter, the Cougars turned to the one-two punch of Terry and Robbins. 

Terry, who broke his hand in the Cougars second round win over Westminster Christian on Friday, and Robbins, who missed the last month of the season after breaking both elbows and undergoing surgery, combined to score 36 points in the second half.

“Cannon played periodically throughout the game” said Waldron about the senior guard. “We changed his style of play to try to play a little bit safer. We would put him in a couple of minutes at a time. It worked. We were successful with it. We were able to get him out out on the floor, and he contributed a lot.

“And Jake really was the catalyst for us. He led the comeback. He had 28 points. He played his tail off for us.”

Creek began its comeback over the final half of the third quarter, pulling to within 42-34 at the start of the final stanza. It was a total 180 from the opening two quarters, especially offensively. 

“The first half we turned the ball over,” said Waldron. “We were nervous. We had that long bus ride. We couldn’t make our shots. I felt like we got some pretty good looks, but we just couldn’t score.”

With new life and an opportunity to pull off the road upset, the Cougars dominated the Screaming Eagles over the final eight minutes, outscoring Vermilion Catholic 23-6. Robbins scored 10 points, Terry added nine and Brett Bell chipped in with four as Creek rallied despite its injuries. 

“We even had to pull Luke out,” said Waldron. “He busted his knee. He is okay. It was more of a bruise from taking a charge. We just had people step up. Cameron Temple defense was great tonight. He did a fabulous job. Defensively he was tough out there.”

Although Waldron credited mixing up some defenses in the final 12 minutes of play, he said it ultimately was about his players desire to continue playing.

“We did some different things defensively,” he said. “We did do some things throughout the second half. That made a difference. But overall, it was the attitude and the fight. We were highly motivated, and refused to quit. We just refused to lose. We showed toughness fighting through the injuries.”

Jyren Bevard led Vermilion Catholic (14-4) with 13 points while Cole Albert scored 10 points. 

 

 

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By Kyle Roberts

RUSTON, La. — Coming off a dominant performance last week over Destrehan, No. 6 Ruston High (18-5) kept the intensity up for a blow out win Tuesday night at home over No. 11  South Lafourche (21-6) by a final score of 78-54 in front of a packed house in the Ruston Main Gym.

“I really feel like we defended well for about three quarters,” Ruston High acting-head coach Corey Deans said. “We gave up some shots in the fourth quarter, but the kids are having fun and playing loose and confident. I hope we can keep our intensity going. The guys have had a couple of really good, even great practices. The kids are really buying into what we’re trying to do, and they know that defense comes first.”

Ruston jumped out to a 6-0 lead early before South Lafourche picked up its first basket at the 5:45 mark of the first quarter. Ruston would then go on a 7-0 run over the next two minutes with baskets from Hudson and Malcolm, followed by a three-pointer from junior Zaterrion Sutton after a blocked shot by Hudson. With the Bearcats ahead 13-2, South Lafourche took a timeout to quell the run with 3:10 to play in the first quarter.

Ruston would get three more dunks for the remainder of the period — two by Hudson (including an alley-oop from Sutton) and one from junior Mason Delaney. The Tarps would score seven more points in the first, and Ruston led 19-9 going into the second quarter.

Senior C.J. Malone opened the second quarter with a three-pointer for the Bearcats to extend the lead to 22-9. After a pair of Tarp free throws, senior Joran Parker added another three-pointer with 5:54 to go in the half for a 25-11 lead. Sutton added another three-pointer shortly and put Ruston up 28-11.

Senior Fabian Stringfellow came off the bench shortly after and scored five quick Ruston points, putting Ruston up 33-13. Ruston would outscore South Lafourche 10-8 for the remainder of the second quarter and led 43-21 at the half with baskets from Parker, Malone, Hudson and two more from Stringfellow.

In the third quarter, senior Aidan Anding threw an alley-oop slam down with 7:20 on the clock to answer a made basket by South Lafourche. Hudson followed with a dunk shortly after, and Sutton got a layup on the next possession to go up 49-23. Senior Joran Parker added a three-pointer with 3:30 to go in the third, and Malcolm added another bucket for a 54-25 lead.

After a made free throw by Stringfellow, Bearcat senior Zheric Hill would knock down three three-pointers over the next four minutes of game time into the fourth quarter, putting Ruston up 66-32 with 7:05 to play.

At the 4:06 mark of the fourth, Deans subbed out the starters and seniors for some of the younger players to get playing time. Sophomore Braylon Knox would get five points, as did sophomore Jackson Murry.

Deans said he was particularly pleased with how both Stringfellow and Hill played coming off the bench and combining for 19 points.

“I look at those guys as our sixth and seventh starters,” Deans said. “They understand the assignment, and they are very confident. Whenever I get the chance to put them on the court, I know they’re going to play extremely hard on defense. Fabo (Stringfellow) is getting his confidence on offense and getting comfortable learning the set. He’s putting his head down and making plays happen.”

Sutton and Parker both led Ruston with 11 points apiece, while Stringfellow and Hudson both had 10 points. Hudson added nine rebounds, as well.

Ruston Hill will play the winner of the matchup between No. 3 Denham Springs and No. 14 Westgate.

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.

Late one ordinary Tuesday afternoon in 523 B.C., Ugh Jones walked into his home after finishing his shift on the increasingly popular Wheel Ride at One Flag over Mesopotamia and, for no real reason at all, opened a drawer in his kitchen and flicked a paper clip in there.

Later that evening Ugh’s wife, Hilda Flatfoot-Jones, hung some pictures and then, for no rea reason at all, took the mini hammer and put it in the same drawer in the kitchen where Ugh had flicked the paper clip.

And in a nutshell, that’s how it started. That scenario centuries ago, harmless and innocent, led to The Drawer In The Kitchen becoming the melting pot of the American home.

You’re in the attic and need a flashlight.

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You go to The Drawer In The Kitchen.

You’re making the grocery list and need an ink pen.

You go to The Drawer In The Kitchen.

You’re at your laptop and need some Scotch tape, a pencil, some batteries.

You go to The Drawer In The Kitchen.

Normally, flathead screwdrivers and old grocery lists make strange bedfellows. But the American home has evolved in such a way that these items, along with old birthday-party photographs, new shoestrings, picture-hanging hooks, extension cords, and note pads wind up in the same drawer.

Husband, yelling from den: “HONEY, DO WE HAVE SOME MORE BATTERIES FOR THE REMOTE CONTROL?”

Wife, yelling from bathroom, where she is being held hostage by mascara and a curling iron: “LOOK IN THE DRAWER IN THE KITCHEN!”

Sometimes, The Drawer is right by the drawer with the forks and spoons and knives. Other times, it’s close to where the microwave sits. It might be Where The Landline Used To Be, which made it easy to find a pen and scratch paper for taking messages, back when that was A Thing.

Phones on walls are in history’s dustbin, and no one takes messages anymore because everyone has a phone and receives text messages, eliminating the middle man.

But one thing remains: The Kitchen Drawer. It might be different places, but it is almost always, almost ALWAYS, in the kitchen. This is unexplainable, like some people’s love for Brussels sprouts or reality television.

When you ask someone in your family where the thumbtacks are, instead of saying, “They’re probably in The Drawer In The Kitchen,” they are just as likely to say, “They’re probably in The Drawer,” and you instinctively know which drawer they’re talking about.

It’s as if there is a big Stuff-Attracting Magnet in that drawer that simply pulls odds-and-ends throughout the house and into it.

I needed some glue this week, so I went to The Drawer. I found two pair of scissors, Vaseline, various coupons, some picture negatives, a wooden nickel, a plastic pig, a 2014 magnet calendar, three pair of sunglasses, a package of Toy Story tissue paper, a small but entire wall clock, a ruler, a domino, straight pins, nails, a Happy Meal toy, two baseballs, some cookie cutters, a piece of rope, several greeting cards, a green Starburst, lip gloss, a Magic Marker, instructions for both the microwave and the icebox, thread, an oatmeal cookie, a wrench, an empty ring box, some sort of toilet implement, and more than $3 in change.

In other words, I found everything but a cure for the common cold and the Holy Grail …

And the glue.

Contact Teddy at teddy@latech.edu

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.

From the day I started playing sports on a competitive level, I’ve always heard the expression, “Competition makes you better.” Is this fact or fiction, and can we prove this theory? Today we’ll break down this concept and determine for ourselves if this is true.

Growing up in East Texas, our community had a summer program called “Park Recreation” that was headed up by a former high school coach by the name of Sam Parker. The concept of this half-day program for ages 8-12 was to create competition through different types of physical games like tug of war, piggyback fights, and capture the flag. Then halfway through the morning after a short donut shop break, we would divide up and play a baseball game until noon. 

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This program was all about competition and instilling toughness. Yes, there were many days when boys went home with shirts half torn and a bloody lip, but the games were fun! Many times, you would have to compete with guys older than yourself, which makes you better. 

This in my opinion is what made me better as an athlete — playing guys older than myself. These games brought out the competitive fire to show all your peers that you were tough and hated losing. It showed no matter who you were up against, you never gave up. It taught you how to compete! 

Bass fishing, like other competitive sports, is no different. As far as I’m concerned, there are only two ways you can really get better as an angler. One is to fish and compete against guys better than yourself. Or two, spend as much time as possible on the water learning new techniques. 

My philosophy has always been to learn as much as I can from every person I get in the boat with. No matter how good you think you are, there’s always room to improve. Over the years fishing with others, I’ve picked up a lot of information ranging from new techniques to organizing tips. 

Obviously, you’re not always going to learn something from every single angler you fish with. But it’s important to keep an open mind to the idea of learning something new. You must leave your ego on the bank in order to become a better angler. 

One thing that I have learned about the sport of bass fishing is that you never stop learning, even if you’ve been doing it for 30 years. It’s an ever-evolving sport as new technology and innovation continue to develop every year. 

To answer the question, “Does competition really make us better?” The answer is a definite yes, but only if you’re willing to be open minded and are looking to get better. So, no matter the sport, competition makes us better. 

‘Til next time, keep your hooks wet and your gun powder dry. Enjoy your time on the water and make every cast count.

Contact Steve at sgraf26@yahoo.com

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Courtesy of LA Tech Athletic Communications

Louisiana Tech swept this week’s Conference USA Freshman of the Week awards as Paris Bradley and AJ Bates both garnered the awards.

Getting the start in place of injured Sean Newman Jr., Bates stepped up and led LA Tech to an impressive 90-66 road win at Sam Houston, handing the Bearkats their biggest loss in conference play.

The Houston, Texas native played all 40 minutes while recording career highs in points (20), assists (nine), and steals (four), becoming just the second freshman in the country this season to register this stat line.

Seventeen of his team-high 20 points came in the second half when the Bulldogs put up 54 points on the Bearkats. The nine assists are the most by a CUSA freshman in a game this season while the four steals tied for the most by a CUSA freshman.

This is the second weekly honor of the season for Bates who also claimed the CUSA Freshman of the Week award back on Dec. 16 during non-conference play.

Bradley had 25 points in LA Tech’s 76-55 win over Sam Houston in the Lady Techsters lone game last week. The 5-9 guard was an efficient 8-9 from the field, including 3-4 from long range and 6-7 from the free throw line, playing all 40 minutes of action.

The Carrollton, Texas, native added five rebounds and five assists. It was the 10th game with five or more rebounds and the seventh time with five or more assists.

On the season, Bradley averages 13.9 points, 3.8 rebounds, 2.9 assists, and 1.4 steals per game. The five 20-point performances are tied for the seventh most by a Lady Techster freshman. Her 374 points are the 11th most by a Tech player during her freshman campaign.

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Courtesy of LA Tech Athletic Communications

Louisiana Tech football announced Monday that 2025 season ticket renewals are now available, along with new season ticket packages for fans to purchase for the upcoming season.

The Bulldogs will play six games at Joe Aillet Stadium, kicking off against Southeastern on Aug. 30. The home slate includes two non-conference games and four Conference USA matchups.

Season ticket holders received an email Monday morning with instructions to activate their accounts as part of the renewal process for the upcoming season. Fans must use the email address provided in the message to activate their accounts and log in to view their renewal applications.

Fans can choose from three ticket delivery methods: mobile, mail, or will call. Mobile delivery is free, while mailing will include a $15 fee, and will-call pickup includes a $7 handling fee. The new Paciolan ticket system provides an improved platform for managing mobile tickets. Fans are encouraged to utilize the mobile option.

Fans looking to relocate their season ticket seats or make payments over the phone can contact the ticket office at (318) 257-3631. The ticket office is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., however hours may vary this week due to event scheduling and quarter break.

New season tickets are now available for purchase online at latechsports.evenue.net.

The renewal deadline for 2025 season tickets is June 1.

LA Tech has removed the LTAC donation requirement for Box and Premium Bench seats. LTAC donations will still be considered when determining parking priority.

Season Ticket Pricing:
DAC: $2,500
Box Seats: $300
Premium Bench: $225
West Bench Reserved: $125
East Bench Reserved: $100
General Admission: $75

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The funeral service for Dr. Charles Lawrence Neal will be held on Friday, March 7, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. in the Fellowship Hall of Temple Baptist Church due to sanctuary renovations. Officiating the Service will be Dr. Reggie Bridges and Dr. John King under the direction of Kilpatrick Funeral Homes of Ruston. A private family burial will be held after the funeral.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, March 6, from 4-7 p.m., also in the Fellowship Hall of Temple Baptist Church

Larry was a beloved husband, father, brother, grandfather, great-grandfather, and uncle. He died peacefully surrounded by his family in Ruston, Louisiana on March 3, 2025. His life was filled with the love of Jesus, his family, his medical practice and medical mission work. Larry was the oldest of two children, born January 7, 1943, in Chicago, Illinois to Edith and Charles Neal. He is preceded in death by his parents and his brother-in-law Robert Henderson.

Larry is survived by his loving wife of 44 years, Nelda; his six children, Susan Ewing (Brandon), Emily Mayerhoff (Rodney), Paul Neal (Amy), Anna Alexander (Mark), Emily Adams (Jody), and Rebecca Williams (Gerry); fifteen grandchildren, Allison E. Hanson (Cale), Elizabeth Anne Ewing, Anna Beth, Corinne, Lila & Vivian Mayerhoff, Andrew and Christopher Neal, Walker & JP Alexander, Nicholas, Sarah & Bailey Anne Adams, and Catherine & Charles Williams; and great-granddaughter Nora Hanson; his sister Cathy (Mike) Philpot and many other cherished family and friends.

Larry graduated from Will Rogers High School in Tulsa, Oklahoma in 1961, played basketball at Grinnell College in Grinnell, Iowa (1961-1963) and completed his undergraduate degree from The University of Oklahoma in Norman, OK in 1965. He attended medical school at The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center in Oklahoma City. After completing his Otorhinolaryngology Residency at the University of Oklahoma in 1973, Dr. Neal served on Active Duty at Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland from 1973 – 1975. In 1975, he joined Green Clinic and dedicated 45 years to caring for his patients before retiring from his practice in 2020. He is remembered not only for his expertise in ENT, but also for his kindness, compassion, and commitment to his patients.

Larry enjoyed performing around North Louisiana with The Doctors Quartet with fellow members Dr. Hoye Grafton, Dr. Ben Haley, Dr. JV Jones, and the late Dr. Dale Boersma. (Yes, it took 5 doctors to make a quartet!) They sang Stamps-Baxter gospel hymns and enjoyed sharing the love of Jesus with everyone.

Larry served as a member and president of the Cedar Creek Board of Directors for 18 years and served as a team doctor while his children were in school. He was a faithful long-time member of Temple Baptist Church where he served as a Deacon, High School Sunday School director, four-year old Sunday School teacher, and member of the orchestra. Some of his fondest memories will always be from the many medical mission trips to Nicaragua.

Beyond his medical career, Dr. Neal was a fierce advocate for those living with Parkinson’s disease, a battle he faced personally. He helped bring the Rock Steady Boxing program to Louisiana Tech University, offering individuals with Parkinson’s a way to improve their strength, balance, and confidence through non-contact boxing. His dedication to this cause touched countless lives and left an impact that will continue for years to come. Along with Rock Steady, he was a member of the North Louisiana Parkinson’s Chorale led by Shayla Blake and the Music and Movement Class at Louisiana Tech University through the Parkinson Resource Center, led by Leaia Alsup and Gretchen Jones.

Pallbearers will be Jody Adams, Nicholas Adams, Brandon Ewing, Cale Hanson, Dr. Paul Neal, and Gerry Williams.

Honorary pallbearers will be Ron Adams, Randy Ewing, Dr. Jackie Robbins, Terry Ewing, Dr. Dwight Anderson, Dr. John Broocks lV, Johnny Mack Caraway, Larry Causey, James Davison, Terry Ewing, Dr. Ben Haley, Dr. Robert Harper, Jeff Lewis, Dr. Ron Riley, Kiley Stephenson D. Aud, Chris Thomas, Dr. Galen Turner III and all of his partners and friends from the Green Clinic.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting that memorials be made to the following: Temple Baptist Church of Ruston, the C. Lawrence Neal, M.D. Pre-Medicine Scholarship through the Louisiana Tech University Foundation, ROCK STEADY BOXING, or to the Parkinson Resource Center, Louisiana Tech University.

The family would like to give special thanks to Dr. Meghan K. Harris, Dr. John Brinkley, Dr. Will Sanders, and Premier Hospice, especially Amy Vance, RN and Veronica “Muffin” Edwards; Personal HomeCare Services with a special thanks to Linda Pennington and Bridget Lacey; and LaTonya Jackson and the Tender Touch Svc, LLC.

Online condolences may be extended to the family at http://www.kilpatrickfuneralhomes.com

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John Louis Murad, 92, of Dallas, Texas, passed away on Saturday, February 22, 2025. He was born on December 15, 1932 in Tyler, Texas.

John was preceded in death by his parents, Louis George Murad and Ruby Sawyer Murad.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 36 years, Sameera Hamra Murad; sons Johnny Murad (Patricia) of Ruston, LA; Philip Murad (Connie) of Grand Saline, TX; David Murad (Jake Lambert) of Swampscott, MA; and Andrew Murad of Madison, NJ. He was a devoted grandfather and great-grandfather to Chris Murad (Austin), Tyler Murad (Kaleigh), Hope Murad (Kevin Borgfeld), Maggie Murad, Ruby Murad, John Austin Murad and Rhett Louis Murad.

He is also survived by his brother Ralph Murad (Julia); sister Helen Mousa; and extended family members Dr. Sam Hamra (Sonia), Randy Massad (Julie), David Massad, Samia Smith (Chris), Raleigh Smith, Beau Smith, Haley Massad, Luke Massad, Angie Satterwhite (Andrew), Amie Wiggins (Raymond), Ryan Massad (Kelsey), Daniel Massad (Shelbi) and many cherished nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

John’s lifelong passion for science and education shaped his distinguished academic career. He earned a B.A. in Biology from Austin College, followed by an M.A. in Microbiology from North Texas State University. He pursued postgraduate studies at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston and earned a Ph.D. in Microbiology from Texas A&M University in College Station. His expertise in parasitology led to his selection as one of 13 U.S. scientists among 40 international delegates to participate in the 2nd Advanced Institute, a prestigious program supported by the National Science Foundation and NATO.

John dedicated his career to higher education, serving as an instructor, professor, advisor and administrator. He spent many years at Louisiana Tech University, where he served as Acting Dean of the College of Life Sciences. As a faculty sponsor for Louisiana Tech’s study abroad program in Rome, he developed a deep love for Italy, later leading trips throughout the country for friends and family. After retiring from Louisiana Tech, he continued his academic contributions as a Clinical Professor of Health Care Sciences at UT Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas.

A proud Korean War veteran, John served in the U.S. Army Medical Corps before pursuing his academic career. His dedication to global education extended beyond the U.S. as a visiting professor at the Universidad Autónoma in San Luis Potosí, Mexico. He mentored UT Southwestern medical students in hands-on learning experiences. He was an active member of numerous national and international scientific societies, contributing to advancements in his field.

After retiring from academia, John engaged in new opportunities to learn and teach. He pursued a passion for travel, sharing his love of history and culture, particularly in Italy and Lebanon. Never one to slow down, he became a licensed medical neuromuscular therapist, helping clients find relief and comfort well into his later years. His commitment to lifelong learning and service never faded, and he took great joy in making a difference in people’s lives.

A lifelong Presbyterian, John was a Ruling Elder at both Preston Hollow Presbyterian Church in Dallas and University Presbyterian Church in Ruston, LA. He remained deeply involved in his church community, teaching an adult Sunday School class as recently as last spring. His dedication to faith and service extended to various leadership and volunteer roles over the years.

A memorial service will be held at Preston Hollow Presbyterian Church (9800 Preston Road, Dallas, TX 75230) at 11 a.m. on Thursday, March 13, 2025.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Music Ministry at Preston Hollow Presbyterian Church (9800 Preston Road, Dallas, TX 75230; phpc.org) or Literacy Achieves in Dallas (P.O. Box 150390, Dallas, TX 75315; literacyachieves.org).

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Kevin Delane Brown 
Dec. 4, 1959 – Feb. 18, 2025 
Visitation: 1:30-2:30 p.m., Saturday, March 8, 2025, at Dubach First Baptist Church gymnasium 
Graveside memorial: 3 p.m., Saturday, March 8, 2025, at Henry Cemetery in Hico

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by Wesley Harris

 

A longtime drug enforcement agent and former local police officer has been selected as Ruston’s new chief of police.

Eric Watson, 55, of Shreveport, was nominated by Ruston Mayor Ronny Walker at a meeting of the City Council Monday evening to replace Steve Rogers who retired February 21.

After a motion by council member Melanie Lewis, seconded by John Denny, the vote by the council was unanimous.

In announcing his decision to recommend Watson, Walker said, “This is the most important decision I’ve had to make in ten years.”

Before an audience of about 75, with a dozen or so RPD officers lining the back of the room, each council member thanked the other applicants, which included current Ruston personnel and one retired RPD lieutenant.

Council member Angela Mayfield echoed the mayor’s sentiments on the significance of the selection.

“This was the hardest decision I’ve had to make sitting in this seat,” said Mayfield.

In addition to praising the candidates, Mayfield said she hoped “we can work together” for Ruston’s benefit.

“I got lots of calls [about the candidates],” said Bruce Siegmund, City Ward 5 councilmember. “We have a lot of great officers. I trusted the committee the mayor put together” in making the decision to vote for Watson.

Earlier in the day, Walker met individually with those candidates who were interviewed to inform them of his decision.

“I learned a lot in those nine interviews,” said Walker in reference to the applicants sharing their insight on the future of the department.

Walker invited Watson to make a short statement. He thanked the mayor and the interview committee for the way the selection process was handled.

“I look forward to working with all of you,” Watson said.

Retired lieutenant Brian Vann, who also interviewed for the position, said, “I’m happy and proud.”

Vann worked with Watson at RPD in the 90s. Speaking of Watson, Vann said, “I’m proud of him.”

Although Watson’s career has taken him around the world, his roots are local. He grew up in Arcadia, attended Simsboro School and Cedar Creek, and holds a B.A. in sociology from Louisiana Tech.

Watson was part of the local 527th Engineer Battalion of the Louisiana National Guard that was sent to Iraq during Operation Desert Storm.  

The new chief was a Ruston patrol officer from 1993 to 1998 before accepting a job with the U. S. Drug Enforcement Administration. Over a career spanning 25 years, Watson worked on drug trafficking cases on a local, national, and international level as well as holding managerial positions.

Among Watson’s assignments in the DEA were postings to Fayetteville, AR; Kansas City, MO; Dallas and Shreveport. He served as resident agent in charge of the Shreveport office, working closely with city, parish, and state law enforcement agencies in north Louisiana.

Other postings included six years as DEA country attaché to Pakistan and as an inspector for the DEA’s Office of Professional Responsibility. He retired from the DEA in February 2024 and has been working in private industry.

Watson will be the second Ruston police chief to have served in a federal drug enforcement agency. Don Hammon worked for the U. S. Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs before becoming Ruston’s police chief in 1973. The BNDD was the direct predecessor of today’s DEA.

Watson said he expects the mayor to call a press conference later in the week. Mayor Walker said last week that details regarding the new chief’s start date and swearing-in would be worked out once the Council approved a candidate. Meanwhile, RPD Deputy Chief Chad Hamlin will continue his temporary appointment as interim chief until Watson is officially sworn in.

 

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Staff report

SHREVEPORT, La. — Ruston and Lincoln Parish is facing a threat of severe weather this morning and into the early afternoon and into the night, according to a report put out by the National Weather Service Monday afternoon.

The area is under an “Enhanced” risk currently, which puts the threat at a 3 on a scale of 1-5. Potential hazards include: damaging winds of 60+ mph, large hail, moderate to heavy rainfall and the possibility of tornadoes.

National Weather Service Meteorologist Ryan Knapp confirmed the forecast, adding that the main concerns in this stormlineare wind damage and a tornado threat.

“The main thing to start off with is that storms will be developing across portions of North Texas and Oklahoma around 3:00 or 4:00 tomorrow morning, entering into East Texas closer to sunrise,” Knapp said. “And then by the time they get closer to Lincoln Parish, we’re looking sometime just before lunchtime. I would say around 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. is the current timing we’re looking at being the earliest that storms could arrive, but likely somewhere around that 11:00 timeframe for when we would expect these storms to start to move east of I-49 and get closer to Lincoln Parish.

“Once that actually arrives, the line is pretty progressive. It’s going to move through rather quickly. We could be seeing a return to maybe even clear skies by the time we approach 4:00 and 5:00 p.m. tomorrow, just because of how quick this line is going to be moving through. Storms should be exiting Lincoln Parish just after 2:00 p.m. at the latest.”

For severe weather threats of this type, families are encouraged to know where to seek shelter in the case of a tornado, such as a hallway or closet away from exterior windows and walls.

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Courtesy of the Ruston-Lincoln Chamber of Commerce

The Ruston-Lincoln Chamber of Commerce hosted its first Capitol Chats event of the 2025-2026 year on Thursday with Will Green, president and CEO of the Louisiana Association of Business and Industry (LABI), at Squire Creek Country Club in Choudrant.

Green addressed business leaders from Lincoln Parish, providing updates from the November 2024 special legislative session and outlining the Louisiana Association of Business and Industry’s (LABI) priorities for enhancing Louisiana’s business climate.

“We were thrilled to host Will for our first Capitol Chats event of the year,” said Thomas Graham, chairman of the Ruston-Lincoln Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. “His insights into the upcoming legislative session and LABI’s focus on improving Louisiana’s business environment were incredibly valuable for our members.”

The event featured a presentation from Green followed by a question-and-answer session. Green discussed legislative priorities that have progressed through the legislative process, along with other reforms currently under consideration by lawmakers. Key topics covered during the one-hour program included tax reform, stabilizing the insurance market, and investing in early childhood education and workforce development.

“This event provided a unique opportunity for members of our community to engage directly with a key figure in Louisiana’s business landscape,” said Turnley. “We believe that fostering this kind of dialogue is crucial for strengthening our local economy and ensuring a bright future for Lincoln Parish.”

To learn more about the Ruston-Lincoln Chamber of Commerce, visit rustonlincoln.org.

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The Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s Office arrested an Arcadia man last week after he was stopped for a traffic infraction and other violations were detected, including the presence of marijuana.

Rodney L. Jackson, 32, was stopped on by a deputy Feb. 27 on Center Street. While speaking to Jackson, the deputy saw Jackson had a suspected marijuana cigarette behind his left ear.

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Jackson was unable to produce a driver’s license and a warrant was found for his arrest for failure to appear in Ruston City Court for battery of a dating partner. Once the warrant was confirmed, Jackson was arrested and the vehicle searched. The odor of marijuana was detected on Jackson, according to the deputy’s report, but none was found. Jackson was warned that if he had any contraband on him, he needed to make it known before reaching the detention center.

After Jackson was removed from the patrol vehicle at the detention center, the deputy checked the back seat and found a bag of suspected marijuana. The deputy noted in his report that he searches the back seat after every arrest for any contraband a transported person might leave behind.

Jackson was charged with improper lane usage, no child restraint, no driver’s license, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of a controlled substance in the presence of a juvenile, and introduction of contraband into a correctional facility, and the City Court warrant.

Jackson’s bail was set at $6,000.

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 Police arrested a local man last Tuesday after drugs were found in his vehicle on a traffic stop.

Chartavious E. Thomas, 28, of Ruston, was arrested Feb. 25 after marijuana and ecstasy was found in his vehicle after an officer saw a traffic violation.

Thomas was stopped after making an improper turn from Farmerville Street on to Second Avenue. When the officer approached the vehicle, he could smell the odor of marijuana.

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The officer noted in his report that Thomas appeared extremely nervous. Thomas stated he had no contraband in the vehicle. During a search, the officer located a box containing digital scales, a large bag of suspected marijuana, and another bag of MDMA tablets (ecstasy).

According to the officer’s report, Thomas admitted the box and its contents belonged to him. He said the bag contained approximately 30 ecstasy tablets, but claimed he found them on the ground.

As he was transported to the Lincoln Parish Detention Center, Thomas was told if he had any more contraband on him and failed to disclose it prior to entering the facility, he would be committing an additional charge. Thomas said he had nothing. However, during an intake search, an additional small bag of marijuana was located on him.

Thomas was booked for possession of MDMA, possession of marijuana, no turn signal, and introduction of contraband into a penal facility. Bail was set at $3,000.