Courtesy of GSU Communications

Grambling State University will award an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters to distinguished alumna and trailblazing executive Alana Ward Robinson during its Spring 2025 Commencement Ceremony, to be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, May 9, in the Fredrick C. Hobdy Assembly Center.

Alana Ward Robinson is a transformative technology strategist and award-winning executive with a distinguished record of leading enterprise-wide innovation across the public and private sectors. With deep expertise in emerging technologies, she has reimagined operating models, built high-performing tech organizations, and driven measurable outcomes across Fortune 500 companies and mission-driven institutions.

“Alana Ward Robinson’s journey is a testament to the power of preparation, resilience, and a clear sense of purpose,” said Grambling State University President Dr. Martin Lemelle, Jr. “Her work at the intersection of technology, equity, and leadership has not only shaped industries—it has opened doors for generations to follow. As a Grambling State graduate, she exemplifies what it means to carry forward the mission of this institution with excellence and intentionality.”

As Founder and CEO of Robinson Group Consulting (RGC) since 2004, Robinson leads a national practice specializing in interim CIO leadership, enterprise technology strategy, and digital transformation. RGC’s diverse client base includes global supply chains, healthcare payers, financial institutions, housing authorities, nonprofits, and universities. Her work consistently bridges strategic vision with operational excellence.

Robinson launched her career at IBM Corporation, ultimately managing the Public Sector P&L across multiple states. She then held senior leadership roles at the Public Service Company of Colorado, PACE Membership Warehouse Club, Coors Brewing Company, Sara Lee Hosiery, and RR Donnelley, where she drove ERP innovation and multimillion-dollar efficiency gains.

A civic leader and governance expert, Robinson has served on numerous boards, including the World Food Program (IT Advisory Council), Brighter Horizon Foundation (Chair), Girls Inc. of Chicago (Secretary), the National Hospice Foundation, and the African American Experience Fund of the National Parks Foundation. She is a founding member of the Information Technology Senior Management Forum (ITSMF) and an active supporter of inclusive leadership and next-gen tech talent.

Her honors include the Girls Inc. She Shines Lifetime Achievement Award, ITSMF President’s Award, Grambling State University Alumni Beacon Award, CIO Review’s Top 20 Technology Consulting Providers, and recognition from the Financial Times Agenda 100, among others.

Robinson holds a B.A. in Applied Mathematics and Computer Science from Grambling State University and is an alumna of Harvard University’s Advanced Executive Management Program, where she was elected Class President. A proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., she resides in Irving, TX with her husband, E. O’Neal Robinson, also a Grambling State alumnus.

Robinson’s honor will be conferred during the Spring 2025 Commencement Ceremony, which also features a keynote address by actress, author, and entrepreneur Tabitha Brown. For more information, visit gram.edu/graduation.

Hudson’s daughter De’Varia Ponton was elated to stand beside her mother to celebrate the 50th anniversary of her college graduation.

“She started a legacy for us. She was the first to graduate in the family,” Ponton said. “We are all graduates with advanced degrees and I can thank my mom for blazing that path. She has a granddaughter here at Grambling now that crossed Delta Iota.” “It is not if you go to college, it is where and Grambling is the place to be.”

Seeing their wives, husbands, children, and grandchildren who were not present 50 years ago made those hours of traveling worthwhile. Their families watched a line of Golden achievers walk in and take their place in Grambling State University’s Spring 2024 Commencement Exercise.

Louisiana State Senator Cleo Fields presented the graduates with an impactful and encouraging speech. The moment finally came when everything the graduates overcame and conquered was worth it as they received their commemorative 50th anniversary degrees. Including a granddaughter participant accepting a diploma on the behalf of her late grandmother Carolyn Collier.

The graduates ended their Golden experience at McCall Dining Hall with a Luncheon presented by SodexoMagic. While some graduates won gift cards from SodexoMagic, the greatest award was the $17,590.00 gift given by the Class of 1974 to their alma mater.

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A man sought for almost a year by several north Louisiana law enforcement agencies is now facing 56 juvenile pornography charges in addition to pending murder and attempted murder charges.

After extradition proceedings in Oklahoma, Ja’Kiron T. McGuire, 18, of Ruston, was picked up at the Cleveland County jail by Lincoln Parish deputies on May 2 and returned to Louisiana. He was booked into the Lincoln Parish Detention Center where he remains.

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McGuire is a suspect in one murder and five attempted murders in Lincoln and Union Parishes. After he was returned to Lincoln Parish he was booked on charges of pornography involving juveniles and bench warrants for failure to appear in Third District Court in March on charges of simple burglary and illegal carrying of a weapon. Bail on those charges is set at $320,000.

Grambling State University Police charged McGuire with the burglary and weapon charges in October 2024.

Authorities anticipate charging McGuire with one count of murder and three counts of attempted murder in Lincoln Parish and two counts of attempted murder in Union Parish.

The Union Parish charges from a 2024 Farmerville incident were reported in a Lincoln Parish Journal article last week.

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.

Thirty-eight riders in the First Baptist Weekday Preschool program’s fourth annual St. Jude Trike-a-Thon this spring raised $3,145 for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

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Pam Flowers, preschool minister and director for the Weekday program, coordinates the event, with the Zeta Rho chapter of Epsilon Sigma Alpha service group co-sponsoring.

In addition to raising funds for the Memphis-based hospital, the ride raised awareness and support for children facing serious illnesses.

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 Kyle Roberts

RUSTON, La. — Ruston High head coach Jerrod Baugh understands that more often than not football is just as mental of a game as it is a physical one.

And right now at the midway point of the 2025 spring practice season, he’s hoping that he and his staff are doing what they can to impart that into a team that is going to replace well over a dozen starters on all sides of the football.

Practices at Ruston High these two weeks are about situational drills, knowing down-and-distance, how much time is left, etc.

Add in freshmen truly getting on the field for the first time Wednesday, and it may feel overwhelming.

But that’s not the case for the new Bearcats as most of them have gone through sixth grade and middle school in this system learning these important lessons.

“I’m thankful to our administration allowing us to train out kids at an early age,” Baugh said. “Of course, we lift weights and do a lot of running, but we really want to coach the mental aspect. It’s not just seeing our speed or strength — you’ll lose the finer aspects of the game if that’s all you focus on. So it gives us an advantage to get them focused on the mental pieces.

“There’s all these things that figure into a game situation that you as a player have to be conscious of in order to execute in the moment and know what the other team is going to try to do. Can you execute in an intense environment with 10,000 people in the stands or in the Superdome? The better we’re able to get them to do all that stuff leading up to it, the better they’ll be able to handle it.”

When asked to assess the progress of this team to this point, Baugh repeatedly used the word “productive.”

“There’s a difference between “productive” and “good,” but I do think we’re making progress towards what we’re trying to do,” Baugh said. “We’re trying to find and put our finger on how to replace all these starters we lost. We’re looking at guys changing positions, younger guys moving into those spots, and we still may not have our finger fully on it after spring football. But this does give us a better clue heading into the summer.”

As reported previously, the roster for these Bearcats will be very new in 2025, and the remainder of spring ball gives these newer ‘Cats the chance to keep working on getting into those spots. Baugh did mention, however, that even with a spring game coming on the horizon against Captain Shreve next week, the depth chart is still far from set for all these open positions.

“A lot of people ask me for depth charts in the spring, and I believe that it’s too early and that we still have some spots — even if it’s a returner,” Baugh said. “That doesn’t necessarily mean that everybody’s job is up, but it’s just way too early to be able to write anything in pen. We’re still ironing things out. And there’s positions where we have to figure out who we’re going to rotate into places and make preparations in case of injury. It’s always a constant deal, but one thing our coaching staff does really well is communicating and evaluating. And if you’re doing it right, then you’re trying to evaluate not just the best decision for the team but also the kid.

“At the end of the day, we’re hoping to put the product on the field that we feel can execute the best.”

Spring practice will continue into next week for the Bearcats. Baugh added that officials will come in to help make game situations feel more formal and realistic — while fighting potentially bad weather the rest of the way.

“Hopefully the weather will continue to cooperate,” Baugh said. “It was good for us to get back out (Wednesday) and not have a long break.”

A Ruston man wanted on ten separate warrants was arrested last week but only after he had to be chased down and subdued.

Robert Antwon Stringfellow, Jr., 42, was arrested April 29 on Dunn Street on arrest warrants from Ruston and Lincoln Parish.

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Lincoln Parish deputies and Ruston Police officers went to a Dunn Street residence where they found a man who identified himself as “Xavier Stringfellow” with a February

25 birth date. As deputies investigated, the man fled on foot. When he tripped and fell, three deputies attempted to handcuff him but he continued to resist.

The man was eventually taken to custody. He continued to give his name as Xavier Stringfellow, but his identity was verified as Robert Stringfellow, Jr.

Stringfellow was booked at the Lincoln Parish Detention Center for resisting an officer by false information, resisting an officer by force, eight warrants from City of Ruston, and two warrant from Lincoln Parish. The nature of the charges on the warrants was not immediately available.

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 Kyle Roberts

YOUNGSVILLE, La. — Ruston High head coach Chris Rathburn had one major goal for the 2025 Lady Bearcat Golf Team: Return to the state tournament for the first time since qualifying began.

Well, Mission: Accomplished, even if inclement weather shortened the final round at Les Vieux Chenes Golf Club in Youngsville, La., to just nine holes.

“For me, our only expectation this year was making it back to state,” Rathburn said. “Once we did that, I feel like everything after was gravy. So, we tried to rlax and have fun.”

Earlier this week, the Lady Bearcats finished their first trip back to the state tournament and finished tied for seventh overall (179+91=270) while junior Kate Boersma finished tied for sixth overall after shooting a 117 total score (79+38=117).

“Kate played great,” Rathburn said. “Last year, she shot low 80’s in two round and at the time, both of those were her best rounds every. This year, about three weeks ago, we played the regular season championship at Huntington, and her swing was just clicking. She hit almost every fairway and won that tournament in a playoff. But in the last few weeks, she’s been fighting a few things and didn’t have her best stuff. As a coach, I didn’t want her thinking a lot about her swing, and (in the state tournament) she didn’t have any penalty strokes, and it showed how much better she’s gotten over the last year.

“I was really proud of her mental game and how she hung in there. I really believe if we would have been been able to finish all 18 holes then she could have crept into the top five.”

Freshman Marry Hammond finished at 157 (100+57), while junior Addison Wood finished with a score of 172 (119+53).

“The two of them have been going back and forth all year between the two- and three-seed for our team,” Rathburn said. “They don’t have a lot of big game experience, so they were nervous but I was proud. It was nice to have both of them contribute.”

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.

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Staff Reports

Cedar Creek eighth grader Presley Wall was named the District 1-1A Most Valuable Player while a total of seven Lady Cougars earned first team honors.

Lady Cougars head coach Julie Riser also earned the Coach of the Year award.

Wall was joined on the first team by teammates Cadence Spangler (1B), Anna Claire Fitzgerald (2B), Hydi Boyd (SS), Mallory Smith (OF), Ava Lantrip (P), and Kendall Ramsey (P). 

“I’m so proud of Presley and this accomplishment,” said head coach Julie Riser. “She worked so hard this past off season and in season, and it paid off. It was well deserved and she represents our team and district well.”

Creek’s seven first team representatives were the second most behind Glenbrook’s eight, a team that the Lady Cougars defeated 15-7 during the season. 

Catcher Sadee Williams and outfielder Clara Yates were both named to the all-district second team.

Smith was the lone senior for the young Lady Cougars squad that captured the District 1-1A title and advanced to the second round of the Select School Division IV playoffs this season with an overall record of 21-10. 

Four of the nine honorees for Creek were middle schoolers while eight of the nine were underclassmen. 

District 1-1A 1st Team All District

MVP: Presley Wall- Cedar Creek
Catcher: Vivian Still- Glenbrook
Catcher: Faith Clifton- Ringgold
1st Base: Anna Grace Vining- Glenbrook
1st Base: Cadence Spangler- Cedar Creek
2nd Base: Anna Fitzgerald- Cedar Creek
2nd Base: Ellie Earnhardt- Glenbrook
Shortstop: Hydi Boyd- Cedar Creek
Shortstop: Gabi Brown- Glenbrook
3rd Base: Chloe Gregg- Glenbrook
Outfield: Addison Gilmore- Haynesville
Outfield: Colby Hollis- Glenbrook
Outfield: Mallory Smith- Cedar Creek
Outfield: Addison Kilpatrick- Ringgold
Utility: Jayla Joyner- Ringgold
Utility: Hallie Harmon- Glenbrook
Utility: Sanaa Lyles- Plain Dealing
Pitcher: Ava Lantrip- Cedar Creek
Pitcher: Rebecca Mosley- Glenbrook
Pitcher: Wesley Johnston- Haynesville
Pitcher: Kendall Ramsey- Cedar Creek
Pitcher: Katie Green- Plain Dealing

District 1-1A 2nd Team All District

Catcher: Macie Brooks- Haynesville
Catcher: Sadee Williams- Cedar Creek
1st Base: Cassady Hope Rogers- Haynesville
1st Base: Alyssa Clifton- Ringgold
2nd Base: Alayna Tabor- Haynesville
Shortstop: Brylee Foster- Haynesville
Shortstop: DeAsia Alexander- Arcadia
3rd Base: Sydney Bates- Ringgold
Outfield: Jolynn Hall- Ringgold
Outfield: Gracie Heard- Glenbrook
Outfield: Hadley Haynes- Glenbrook
Outfield: Isis Cornelious- Haynesville
Outfield: Clara Yates- Cedar Creek
Pitcher: Savannah Mangrum- Glenbrook
Pitcher: Sophie Green- Plain Dealing
Pitcher: Tiffany Byrd- Haynesville

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By Doug Strickel

Have you ever made the comment that “everything seems to be spinning out of control”?  Well, if you have, you are in the majority.  All of us experience periods or seasons where so much of life appears to be out of our control.  If we were honest, we would acknowledge that most of life is outside of our control.

We can’t control the weather and that impacts so much of the things we like to do as well as temperament for many of us.  We can’t control what other people do, say, or the choices they make.  We can’t control how our favorite sports team plays on a given day. 

Unplanned car repairs, home repairs, or other financial burdens pop up when we least need them.  Regardless of how diligent we are in taking care of ourselves, health issues can impact us.  We suffer the loss of loved ones, friends move to other communities, and our loved ones don’t always do what’s best.

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Let’s face it, circumstances change unexpectedly, we face uncertainty every day, and things don’t always go as planned.  We elect people to public office only to be disappointed.  We invest in others, and they let us down.  We join an organization, and they eventually do something we don’t think is best.

To be honest, we are not in control of much of life.  That statement is troubling for many.  However, we were never intended to be in control.   I recall Jesus saying, “Do not be anxious about tomorrow”.  We are anxious because we aren’t in control. 

Not being in control does not mean we live out of control! 

If we invested all the time, energy, and passion focusing on what we can control rather than what we can’t control, we would experience a much better quality of life.

Consider this process for what I refer to as having a PLUS DAY leading to being a PLUS PERSON.

• Clarify your identity: Who are you?  Just what do you want to be known for?  What elements of life do you want to live out every day because that’s your identity?  For me, it’s three things:  Follower of Jesus, Coach, Athlete

• Purpose: Purposely live out that identity each day as you pursue your purpose in life.  Here’s what you control.  You control your attitude, your mindset, and your response to the day.  For me, I seek to intentionally live out those three aspects of my identity each day regardless of what else happens.

• PLUS DAY: A PLUS DAY is any day that you live out your identity regardless of what else happens that day.  For me, any day that I seek to know our Savior, impact the life of others, and train/eat well is a PLUS DAY for me.  I may have had a flat tire, been rejected twenty times on business proposals, and dealt with a host of unplanned negative things, but I lived out my identity that day. 

• PLUS PEOPLE: A PLUS PERSON is one that has a positive mindset and is a PLUS to everything and everyone that they encounter.  Organizations are all better when a PLUS PERSON joins.  Individuals are better when they spend time with PLUS PEOPLE. 

We don’t control much of life, but we can control purpose, identity, and how we approach living out those elements each day.  If we could be more intentional in seeking purpose and living out our identity, our perspective toward those things outside our control would change, and we would experience more peace, fulfillment, and joy.  Anxiety, worry, and stress would diminish with this change in perspective. 

You may not be in control, but you don’t have to live out of control!

For the latest local news, subscribe FOR FREE to the Lincoln Parish Journal and receive an email each weekday morning at 6:55 right to your inbox. Just CLICK HERE to sign up.

Courtesy of LA Tech Athletic Communications

Trailing 4-1 entering the bottom of the seventh, Louisiana Tech softball used back-to-back two-out, two-run home runs to defeat New Mexico State 5-4 in the opening round of the Conference USA Tournament on Wednesday afternoon at WKU Softball Complex.

The Bulldogs and Aggies finished with seven hits apiece, but LA Tech’s timely hitting in the seventh proved to be the difference as Reagan Marchant and Addison Snyder provided the final fireworks.

“We had great fight,” said head coach Josh Taylor. “We just fought until the end.”

Senior Alyssa Martin earned the win in the circle after entering the game in top of the first inning, replacing Allie Floyd who left the game due to injury after facing just three batters. Martin picked up where she left off against Sam Houston this past Sunday, tossing 6.1 innings while allowing four runs on seven hits.

“When you look at what Alyssa was able to do today … that was just a tremendous effort,” said Taylor. 

Scoreless through the first three innings, the Bulldogs and Aggies left a combined eight runners on base with four belonging to each team.

LA Tech recorded its first hit of the game in the bottom of the second as Allie Furr ripped a single past the outstretched glove of NMSU’s second baseman. Elena Heng would reach base via walk in the inning, but the Bulldogs were not able to make anything of it.

NMSU got three runners aboard with two outs in the top of the third, but Martin was able to induce a popout to first to end the Aggies’ scoring threat.

The Aggies struck first in the top of the fourth as they collected three hits and one run to make it 1-0. They led off the inning with a single, followed by a line out and another single. With two on, NMSU doubled to left center and got one across, but a strong throw from Alexis Gilio to Nicole Hammoude who relayed it home to Snyder prevented a second run from scoring on the play.

The Bulldogs tied the game at 1-1 in the bottom of the fifth after logging two hits. Heng recorded a one out single and advanced to second on a Gilio hit by pitch, followed by a Claire Raley singled to center to load the bases for LA Tech. After an infield fly to record a second out, Heng used her speed to come around to score on a wild pitch.

While it is only May, the fireworks were flying like it was the Fourth of July as the seventh inning saw a combined three home runs and seven runs. The Aggies went up 4-1 after a single and a walk put two on base for the Aggies. NMSU launched a three-run home run to make it 4-1.

The Bulldogs responded in a big way in the seventh, scoring four runs on three hits and walking off the Aggies to win it. After a flyout to start the bottom half, Gilio singled to second and advanced to second on a wild pitch.

Raley moved Gilio over to third on a groundout, followed by Marchant’s 18^th home run of the season to cut NMSU’s lead to one. The home run by Marchant broke the 16-year-old LA Tech single season record of 17 set by Amberly Waits in 2009. 

Following the home run, Hammoude kept the game alive by drawing a walk to bring Snyder to the plate. 

Down in the count 1-2 with two outs, Snyder launched a two-run home run to straight away centerfield for her first career bomb to lift the Bulldogs over the Aggies in walk-off fashion.

“We got the two big home runs in the bottom of the seventh,” said Taylor. “I just loved the way we fought today. With Addison, we know it’s there. She is just a freshman. When she swings it and gets after it, we know the power and ability are there. She has been searching for it, and what a great time to find it.”

Tech will face regular season champion and No. 1 seed Liberty today at 12:30 p.m. 

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Courtesy of LA Tech Athletic Communications

The 11th annual Techspy Awards were held Monday night inside the Thomas Assembly Center, an event that celebrates Louisiana Tech student-athletes and all their accomplishments in athletics, academics, and community service.

The year-end celebration, hosted by Gavin Kelly, featured an all-sports highlight video as well as 15 Techspy awards plus several other individual awards handed out to Bulldogs and Lady Techsters.

(Techspy award nominees include Spring sports from last season and Fall and Winter sports from this season. Nominees for Performance of the Year are those that have taken place between April 1, 2024 to March 31, 2025)

Male Presidential Award presented by University President Dr. Jim Henderson
ZACH ZIMOS | FOOTBALL
Zimos spent two seasons on the gridiron with the Bulldogs, playing in 25 games with 17 starts at linebacker. He finished with a team-best 84 tackles on the season this past season, earning All-CUSA Honorable Mention honors. Having already graduated with his MBA, he was named Academic All-District, a Coach Wooden Citizenship Cub semifinalist, and Fall Spirit of Service Award winner in 2024.

Female Presidential Award presented by University President Dr. Jim Henderson
ROBYN LEE | WOMEN’S BASKETBALL
Lee spent five seasons on the hardwood for the Lady Techsters, playing in 150 career games including 68 starts. She played and started in all 34 games as a fifth-year senior this past season. She is a graduate student pursuing her MBA after graduating in Psychology last year. She is a four-time CUSA Commissioner’s Honor Roll recipient and a two-time CUSA Academic Medalist as well as being a two-time Academic All-District selection.

Gatorade Male Athlete of the Year presented by Dr. Dickie Crawford
ETHAN BATES | BASEBALL
Bates collected six All-America honors as well as earning Conference USA Player of the Year in 2024. He started all 69 games for the Bulldogs, leading the team in both RBIs and doubles while batting .337 with 87 hits. On the mound, he had a 3.43 ERA with a 2-1 record as well as 17 saves which led the country.

Gatorade Female Athlete of the Year presented by Dr. Dickie Crawford
OSARETIN JOY USENBOR | WOMEN’S TRACK AND FIELD
Usenbor opened the 2025 indoor season at the Rod McCravy Memorial Invitational, tying the program’s 300-meter indoor record of 39.32. She capped off the indoor slate by winning two golds at the Conference USA championship. One of those was in the 400 meters with a time of 53.49. The other was part of the 4×400-meter relay team that was the fifth-fastest time in program history at 3:37:63.

Male Performance of the Year presented by Boris Teske and Mike DiCarlo
SABASTIAN BRADLEY-REED | MEN’S TRACK AND FIELD
Bradley-Reed carried the torch in his 400-meter race, setting a new program record by nearly .7 seconds with a time of 46.74 to be crowned as the individual champion at the Conference USA Indoor Championships in Lynchburg, Virginia.

Female Performance of the Year presented by Boris Teske and Mike DiCarlo
ALLIE FLOYD | SOFTBALL
Floyd had a phenomenal performance in the circle against 17th-ranked Auburn, limiting the Tigers to just one run on one hit while setting a new career high with nine strikeouts in the 5-1 victory at the Rocket City Showcase. She faced the minimum number of batters in five of the seven innings.

Male Newcomer of the Year presented by Elton Taylor
JIMMY HOLIDAY | FOOTBALL
Holiday, a transfer from WKU, earned Honorable Mention All-Conference USA honors after seeing action in all 13 games for the Bulldogs including six starts at wide receiver. He finished the season with 658 all-purpose yards and six total touchdowns while ranking second on the team in both total receptions with 39 and receiving yards with 476.

Female Newcomer of the Year presented by Elton Taylor
RACHEL ONG | BOWLING
Ong, a transfer from Sam Houston, ranked in the top 15 in the country in split leave, spare conversion, and overall fill percentage. She ranked third on the team with a 20.02 average per frame and had a 203.3 average during the individual portion of the tournaments. She most recently secured an All-Tournament honors at the Music City Classic, finishing in second place.

Male Rookie of the Year presented by Cade Jordan
NIILO MAKI-PETAJA | GOLF
Maki-Petaja was named First Team All-Conference USA, CUSA Freshman of the Year, and Louisiana Freshman of the Year in his first season with the Bulldogs. He had a team-best 72.25 stroke average over 36 rounds, fourth best in program history, while totaling 20 rounds at or under par. He recorded four top five finishes in route to qualifying for the NCAA Regionals as an individual.

Female Rookie of the Year presented by Cade Jordan
PARIS BRADLEY | WOMEN’S BASKETBALL
Bradley earned First Team All-Conference USA honors and was likely the unanimous choice for CUSA Freshman of the Year. The Lady Techster started all 34 games while leading the team in several categories including scoring at 14.4 points per game as well as total assists and steals with 102 and 46, respectively.

Team of the Year presented by Director of Athletics Ryan Ivey
BASEBALL
The Diamond ‘Dogs posted a 45-19 overall record, the second most wins in program history. They registered an 18-6 mark in league play, including a sweep of Liberty in the final series to earn the Conference USA regular season title. They would end up advancing to the CUSA Tournament championship game then received an at-large bid to the NCAA Regionals.

Team Community Service Award winners presented by Lindsey McKaskle
FOOTBALL AND WOMEN’S BASKETBALL

Community Service Award individual winners presented by Lindsey McKaskle
Women’s Basketball – Isla Airey
Soccer – Annie Meador
Softball – Alannah Rogers

Team GPA Award winners presented by Dr. Donna Thomas
GOLF AND BOWLING

GPA Award individual winners presented by Dr. Donna Thomas
Baseball – Slade Netterville
Men’s Basketball – Ben Ponder
Women’s Basketball – Jianna Morris
Men’s Cross Country – Trey Smith
Women’s Cross Country – Lexa Thompson
Bowling – Jenna Stretch
Football – Judd Rouyea
Golf – Gray Kingrea
Soccer – Madita Ehrig
Softball – Allie Furr
Tennis – Zoie Epps
Men’s Track and Field – William Estes
Women’s Track and Field – Nia Wiley
Volleyball – Jailen Hurley

Tenets of Tech winners presented by Hannah Brotherton
Baseball – Michael Ballard
Men’s Basketball – Will Allen
Women’s Basketball – Robyn Lee
Men’s Cross Country – Jacob Tabor
Women’s Cross Country – Rebecca Quebedeaux
Bowling – Rachel Ong
Football – Landon Nelson
Golf – Joel Thomas Stephens
Soccer – Madison Pensom
Softball – Alyssa Martin
Tennis – Ana Rodrigues
Men’s Track and Field – Sabastian Bradley-Reed
Women’s Track and Field – Osaretin Joy Usenbor
Volleyball – Jailen Hurley

Iron Tech Award winners presented by Blake Talos
Baseball – Nate Crider
Men’s Basketball – Will Allen
Women’s Basketball – Robyn Lee
Men’s Cross Country – Dillon Sanchez
Women’s Cross Country – Bailey Springer
Bowling – Ashley Imhoff
Football – Landon Nelson
Golf – Gray Kingrea
Soccer – Maeva Costenaro
Softball – Elena Heng
Tennis – Zoie Epps
Men’s Track and Field – DeMarko Lawler Jr.
Women’s Track and Field – Osaretin Joy Usenbor
Volleyball – Carla Esquer

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Each Monday through Friday, the Lincoln Parish Journal will post a list of non-for-profit upcoming events happening in the parish. If you would like to add your event to this list or advertise your for-profit events, please email us at lpjnewsla@gmail.com. 

Thursday, May 8
9:30 a.m.: Piney Hills Quilt Guild meeting (Grace Methodist Church)
11 a.m. to 1 p.m.: 5 Loaves, 2 Fish Ministry Fundraiser (First Baptist Church parking lot; $10/plate)
11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Kiwanis Club lunch and program (Trinity Methodist Church fellowship hall)
5-7 p.m.: Business  After Hours (Courtyard Marriott, 1309 Maxwell Blvd.)
6 p.m.: Southern A’Chord Chorus rehearsal (Presbyterian Church fellowship hall, 212 N. Bonner St.; open to all women singers)
6-8 p.m.: Indian Cuisine (Ruston Farmers Market)

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Friday, May 9
11:30: Ribbon cutting celebrating Lincoln United Community Coalition (407 N. Hazel St., Ruston)
2 p.m.: Ribbon cutting celebrating Enhanced Skin & Beauty (2314 Commons Ct., Suite 5)
6 p.m.: GSU baseball

Saturday, May 10
8:30-11:30 a.m.: Hazardous Waste Material Collection and Recycling (2609 Farmerville St.)
9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Farmers Market
3 p.m.: GSU baseball

Sunday, May 11
Mother’s Day
1 p.m.: GSU baseball

Monday, May 12
11:30 a.m.: Lunch on Us (Presbyterian Church, 212 North Bonner Street., Ruston) — everyone welcome
6 p.m.: Toastmasters International meeting (Louisiana Center for the Blind, 101 South Trenton Street)
6-9 p.m.: Creative Meetups (Creatives at Work, 301 N. Trenton)

Tuesday, May 13
7 p.m.: Lincoln Parish Police Jury meeting (Ruston Courthouse)

Wednesday, May 14
7-8 a.m.: Veterans Coffee Club (PJ’s Coffee)
11:30 a.m.: Lunch on Us (Presbyterian Church, 212 North Bonner Street., Ruston) — everyone welcome

Thursday, May 15
11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Kiwanis Club lunch and program (Trinity Methodist Church fellowship hall)
5-6 p.m.: Free meal hosted by 5 Loaves 2 Fish Ministry (Ruston Housing Authority Community Room, 901 MLK Drive., Ruston)
6 p.m.: Southern A’Chord Chorus rehearsal (Presbyterian Church fellowship hall, 212 N. Bonner St.; open to all women singers)
6 p.m.: LA Tech baseball

Friday, May 16
6 p.m.: LA Tech baseball

Saturday, May 17
9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Farmers Market
Noon: LA Tech baseball

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.

Funeral services for Shirley Ann Parker, 86, of Ruston, LA will be held on Sunday, May 11, 2025, at 2:00 PM, at Kilpatrick Funeral Home Chapel in Ruston, with Rev.  Eddie Rushing officiating.   Interment will follow at Roselawn Cemetery in Calhoun, LA, under the direction of Kilpatrick Funeral Homes.     A visitation will be held prior to the service from 1:00 to 2:00 PM at Kilpatrick Funeral Home Chapel in Ruston.

Shirley was born October 25, 1938, and left this world on May 6, 2025.

She is preceded in death by her husband, James Parker; mother, Eva Cullins; son, Shelby Clements; daughter, Elizabeth “Libby” Antee; sister, Dorothy Odom; brother, Billy Joe Cullins.

Left to cherish her memory are her brothers, Sonny Cullins and wife Becky, William Cullins and wife Tammie, James Cullins;  her children, Jimmy Clements and wife Carol, Peggy Choate and husband Gary, Duane  Parker and wife Sara, Carolyn Clements, Barbara Little and husband John, and son-in-law Jerry Antee; Thirteen grandchildren, Joey, Jason, Kenneth, Christina, Jessica, Jennifer, Sandra, Dustin, Robert, Cody, Emily, Jack, and Smantha; twenty great-grandchildren and one great-great grandchild.

Shirley raised her children on a waitress’ salary and later worked for National Video where she retired twice.  She enjoyed books, movies, video games and cared for many dogs, cats, and turtles over the years. 

Pallbearers are Cody Rodrigues, Dusty Clements, Jason Antee, Joey Antee, Kenneth Choate, Jeremy Allen, and Dakoda Allen.  Honorary Pallbearers are Carlos Soza, Jeremy Allen, Wyatt Rodrigues, Henry Choate, Dakoda Allen, Presley Morris, Owen Antee, Reagon Taylor, Remington Rodrigues, Robert Rodrigues, and Lincoln Rodrigues.

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

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Jean Lay 
September 1, 1929 – May 2, 2025 
Visitation: Grace Methodist Church, Sunday, June 8, 2025, 1:30 pm – 2:00 pm 
Service: Grace Methodist Church, Sunday, June 8, 2025, 2:00 pm 

Ralph Patterson, Jr. 
Tuesday 01/15/1952 — Monday 04/28/2025 
Visitation: Friday 05/09/2025 3:00pm to 6:00pm at King’s Funeral Home 
Celebration of Life: Saturday 05/10/2025 12:00pm, New Hope Baptist Church, 204 W Vaughn Ave., Ruston 
Interment: Saturday 05/10/2025 Following Service, Grambling Memorial Garden, Highway 80 West, Grambling 

Kimeco Angelina Baker Williams 
Sunday 01/11/1976 — Wednesday 04/30/2025  
Visitation: Saturday 05/10/2025 9:00am to 11:00am, Pleasant Star Baptist Church, 1810 New Zion Road, Winnsboro 
Celebration of Life: Saturday 05/10/2025 11:00am, Pleasant Star Baptist Church, 1810 New Zion Road, Winnsboro 
Interment: Saturday 05/10/2025 Following Service, Morning Star- Pleasant Star Cemetery, Fort Necessity 

Johnny Earl Jones   
Wednesday 04/06/1960 — Saturday 04/26/2025   
Celebration of Life: Thursday 05/08/2025 11:00am, St. Peter Baptist Church, 404 Longstraw Rd, Ruston   
Interment: Thursday 05/08/2025 Following Service, Ebenezer Cemetery, Parish Road 214, Ruston    

Patrice Powell Broadnax   
Sunday 04/16/1967 — Sunday 04/27/2025   
Visitation: Friday 05/09/2025 3:00pm to 6:00pm at King’s Funeral Home   
Celebration of Life: Saturday 05/10/2025 11:00am at King’s Funeral Home   
Interment: Saturday 05/10/2025 Following Service, Fellowship Church Cemetery, Highway 507, Simsboro  

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By T. Scott Boatright

 

The wheels on the bus go round and round.

And the ride will be more comfortable for many Lincoln Parish students utilizing buses next academic year to travel to school and back home.

That comes after the Lincoln Parish School Board granted permission Tuesday night during its May meeting for LPSB Transportation Supervisor Doc Hoefler to request proposals to add air conditioning to a number of school buses while also improving Hoefler’s request to purchase a bus management system that will allow parents to know where their children’s bus is at any given moment.

“We’re requesting to purchase Samsara software for 80 Lincoln Parish school buses — 68 route buses and 12 activity buses to help with diagnostic maintenance as well as tracking to assure safety for our buses,” Hoefler said. “This will also provide a way for parents to see the location of their student’s bus.”

Hoefler said he is working to arrange a system where parents will be able to download an app to track buses.

“All they should have to do is have the app and then know the bus number that their student is on,” Hoefler said. “We have it on four buses we’ve been using to test it and I can tell you while there might be a very slight lag time, during the rain today I didn’t have to get out into the weather until I saw that a bus was getting close.”

Hoefler said hopes are for the system to be in place and in use at the start of next school year.

“Just as soon as we get permission (Samsara) said they’re ready to go and will have it ready for next school year,” Hoefler said. 

Hoefler said the request to air condition more of the LPSB’s bus fleet is a continuing effort.

“We started doing work to retrofit our buses (with air conditioning) last year,” Hoefler said. “We did about 35 last year so we’re requesting the purchase of air-conditioning units of course for cooling purposes during severe heat but also for providing a safer experience for students and drivers.

“So, we’re seeking permission to retrofit 18 of our route buses. Our recommendation is that the board grant permission to the superintendent to issue a request for proposals to purchase and retrofit air-conditioning systems for 18 school buses and that the School Board grant the superintendent permission to accept the lowest bid meeting specifications outlined in the proposal request.”

Hoefler said that along with the 35 buses retrofitted last year five special needs buses and five new buses more recently bought already have air conditioning, the 18 proposed retrofits should make nearly the entire fleet equipped with cooling systems.

“We’ll have five routes that won’t have it, and that’s because those route buses are too old for us to decide to (retrofit), ” Hoefler said. “We are hoping to get that taken care of in the next year or so by purchasing five new buses.”

The LPSB also approved a request from the city of Ruston during the meeting regarding the ongoing Buc-ee’s construction project across Tarbutton Road from Ruston Junior High School that will be a winning situation for the LPSB.

That came after the Board approved a request from the city of Ruston asking the LPSB to make five donations of servitude to maintain the current water and sewer lines and fire hydrants around RJHS and also to extend current water lines for development west of Tarbutton Road.

“Four are water lines, one is a sewer line that goes around Ruston Junior High,” LPSB Superintendent Ricky Durrett said. “In the past we’ve maintained that and the city is asking to take that over and then extend the water line across the street toward Buc-ee’s and further development there.

“It would mean (the city takes) over the water line upkeep, the fire hydrants and all of the maintenance that would go with it, so it’s a win for us and a win for them. They’ll take over that maintenance if we grant the city of Ruston those donations of servitude.”

The LPSB also approved a pair of change orders for ongoing work at the Ruston High School parking lot.

“That parking lot is in front of the Ruston High School gym, and that area was just a big ditch before we built the parking lot there,” said LPSB New Construction Supervisor James Payton. “The (school) district was very fortunate in that we got the dirt to fill that hole at no charge. We probably wouldn’t have been able to do it if we had to buy all that dirt and put it in there.

“And then when we bid it out we got a significantly lower price than what had been allotted for it. So we were very fortunate in those two respects.”

The first change order for the parking lot renovations is to extend the contract for 10 days.

“We needed to have Board approval of this,” Payton said. “You can’t do a change order after the contract date expires. So that’s the reason for that. I talked to the contractor today and we’re basically through with the lot. All we need to do is put the parking bumpers in.”

But in order to complete the parking lot, a large retaining wall connected to a sidewalk had to be removed and the area where it had to be removed from had to be filled with select dirt.

It was also necessary to excavate soft, muddy soil in an area where water was running into the ground underneath the parking lot foundation. Gotech fabric was installed at the bottom of the hole and the area was backfilled with compacted, select fill dirt.

Additional topsoil along the east side of the curb line also had to be added to the parking lot edge.

That change order pushed the price of the work to $13,521.10 with the new total contract price to $178,116.10.

In other business, the LPSB granted permission to bid for duplicating paper as well as gasoline and diesel fuel for the 2025-26 school year, approved Financial Officer’s Juanita Duke’s request to declare four external defibrillators and seven school buses as surplus property because they have been deemed obsolete, and granted permission for Duke to distribute $70,021.25 in 1975 Sale Tax Collection dedicated funds to schools throughout the school district.

Those supply funds are dedicated to be allocated for Music, Art, PE, Science and library supplies, including newspapers and periodicals.

The LPSB agreed with Duke’s request to move some of the funding away from newspapers and periodicals in light of a majority of news being found in this day and age on the internet.

Distributions will be made to each school based on student enrollment as of Oct. 1, 2024.

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Courtesy of LA Tech University Communications

Young minds at A.E. Phillips Laboratory School recently put their research skills to the test by diving into the world of animals. As part of a project in Kelly Hodge and Paige Harvey’s second-grade classes, students selected an animal to study and conducted in-depth research based on specific scientific guidelines.

Each student chose an animal from a provided list, ensuring a variety of species were represented in the class. Students gathered information on their animal’s habitat, diet, lifecycle, physical characteristics, and more. The assignment, which aligns with the class’s informational writing unit, culminated in a five-paragraph essay and a custom illustration.

Teacher residents Blake Volland and Erin Hamilton, who assist in the second-grade classrooms, also played a role in helping guide students through the research and writing process.

“We thought it would be fun and meaningful for the students to see their work come to fruition by turning it into a real hardback book,” Hodge said. “It really is a celebration of their hard work and gives them something to be proud of. They all did a spectacular job, and it was so rewarding to watch them succeed.”

With help from Ms. Martie Clary, AEP art teacher, students illustrated their animals before transferring their final drafts to formal publishing paper provided by Studentreasures Publishing. The company supplies materials for young authors and transforms their work into hardback books.

Second grade student Weezy Geisman, who researched manatees, said the project helped her learn more about animals and develop her writing skills.

“Research was fun, and I got to learn more about the animal,” Geisman said. “The hardest part about researching was picking out which facts to use and put in the book.”

“When teachers plan projects that truly engage students, the lessons learned are memorable and long-lasting,” Dr. Jenny Blalock, AEP principal, said. “In addition to publishing a book, students learned the process of researching, writing, editing, and persevering to the completed product that would be published.”

This annual project has become a hallmark of the second-grade curriculum at A.E. Phillips, promoting literacy, scientific curiosity, and creativity in young learners.

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Courtesy of Experience Ruston

The Ruston Lincoln Convention & Visitors Bureau (Experience Ruston) is proud to recognize National Travel & Tourism Week by celebrating another strong year for tourism in Lincoln Parish.

In 2024, tourism continued to play a vital role in economic impact, quality of life, and community development for Ruston & Lincoln Parish. Key indicators point to a healthy and growing visitor economy.

Between the Ruston Sports Complex, Louisiana Tech University, and Grambling State University, 285 youth and collegiate sporting events were hosted in Lincoln Parish in 2024. Outside of city limits, the North Louisiana Exhibition Center welcomed events 46 weekends out of the year, while Lincoln Parish Park saw more than 80,000 visits. Additionally, 16 visiting conferences and meetings were held locally.

The Louisiana Peach Festival also saw a record-breaking year. In 2024, the single-day event drew 27,000+ attendees from all over the region and provided more than $1.6 million dollars of economic impact to the area, according to the Louisiana Tech Center for Economic Research.

Data shows that 69.5% of 2024’s visitors were repeat visitors, and 50.9% of all visitors were from out-of-state. On average, overnight guests stayed 2.3 days in the destination, with March through May emerging as peak months. In addition, the parish saw a 2.2% increase in lodging tax revenue over the previous year.

“Our tourism sector continues to show impressive growth and impact,” said Amanda Carrier, President & CEO of Experience Ruston. “These numbers reflect the strength of our partnerships, the quality of our attractions, and the power of our community to deliver an exceptional visitor experience.”

In 2024, Experience Ruston awarded $385,000 in grants and sports tourism support, with more than $247,000 allocated to destination development projects at local attractions. These efforts align with the organization’s mission to grow Ruston and Lincoln Parish through tourism promotion and community connection.

The economic impact of tourism extends well beyond visitation. It fuels local spending, supports jobs, and helps fund public services through generated tax revenue. Local events, attractions, and businesses benefit directly, while residents enjoy enhanced quality of life through increased amenities and community vibrancy.

“As we celebrate National Travel & Tourism Week, we want to thank everyone who contributes to our area’s success — from event organizers and hospitality workers to community leaders and small business owners,” said Carrier. “Together, we’re building a stronger, more vibrant Ruston & Lincoln Parish.”

For more information on tourism in Lincoln Parish or to learn about local attractions, visit www.experienceruston.com.

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About the Ruston Lincoln Convention & Visitors Bureau

The Ruston Lincoln Convention & Visitors Bureau is a destination marketing organization dedicated to promoting tourism, enhancing visitor experiences, and supporting economic growth in Lincoln Parish. For more information, visit www.experienceruston.com.

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RUSTON, La. – A crowd of over one hundred gathered together Tuesday night in the Davison Athletics Complex on the campus of Louisiana Tech to honor dozens of both scholarship donors and recipients as well as department award winners in the second annual Make a Difference awards banquet hosted by the Department of Curriculum, Instruction & Leadership.

“Tonight gives us an opportunity to recognize our graduating seniors who are going out into the field,” CEHS Interim Department Chair of Curriculum, Leadership and Instruction Dr. Dustin Whitlock said. “And it also gives us an opportunity to recognize the donors to the department who sponsor scholarships each year. We’ve made this into an annual event where really get an opportunity to recognize the donors, students and all the people that make our program happen.”

Following an introduction by CEHS Dean Dr. Henrietta Pichon of the COEHS, Whitlock announced all of the undergraduate and graduate scholarship recipients with Dr. Amy Vessel following to announce award winners.

Near the end of the night, both Carlee France and Caroline Broussard were honored for being named to the Louisiana Board of Regents Future Educator Honor Roll, where earlier in the morning they along with their families attended a celebration at the Old State Capitol in Baton Rouge along with Whitlock.

Finally, the graduating students were given their APEL graduation chords to celebrate moving into their next chapter in life.

The event was sponsored by both Justin and Jeanette Hinckley from the Class of 1978, who both expressed their appreciation for Louisiana Tech’s College of Education and Human Sciences and the great work that is being done for students in preparing them to enter the education profession.

“We believe it’s important to recognize people for their academic success, both in the past and going forward with scholarships,” Justin Hinckley said. “It’s nice to have a banquet where the parents and other family members can come and support them.”

The Department of Curriculum, Instruction & Leadership is part of the College of Education and Human Sciences at Louisiana Tech.

See full list of scholarship recipients and award winners below.

Scholarships for Undergraduate Studies in Teacher Education

• WILBUR L. BERGERON EDUCATION SCHOLARSHIP ENDOWMENT: Ansley Houston 
• LYNN AND LOUIS R. BRILL ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP: Anna Farish 
• CALWELL EDUCATION SCHOLARSHIP: Audrey Nelson
• ANNIS CATHON MATHEMATICS EDUCATION SCHOLARSHIP: Grace Boudreaux 
• CAUSEY-TANNER ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP: Emma Jane Reeves, Grace Luevanos, Kaleigh Winterrowd
• JOHN A. CAWTHON ENDOWMENT: Ansley Houston 
• PATRICIA BROWN COCHRAN ENDOWMENT: Sara Garcia, Landry Hearron, Rae’Ghan Williams
• EDMONDSON CRUMP ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP IN EDUCATION:Lauren Wilson and Caden Robison
• DAUZAT ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP: Kereston Crow
• LANETTE SOUTHALL FISHER ENDOWMENT: Kylee Triche 
• LUCILLE PIERCE FOLK SCHOLARSHIP ENDOWMENT: Tyrique LeBlanc
• MARGUERITE WILDER GARRETT AND LINDA GARRETT WALLACE  ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP: Sara Osborne
• GASTON, THOMAS & WATSON, HESSIE GASTON ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP IN EDUCATION: Marianna Harris, Hailey Malik, Taylor Rotolo, Joselyn Stark 
• GULLATT FAMILY ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP IN EDUCATION: Sofia Zubiate
• MARY ROSS HIGGINBOTHAM ENDOWMENT: Macy Hemphill and Kylie Hickingbottom
• LINDA AND JERRY HUDSON ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP: Kylee Triche 
• CDM MABRY ENDOWMENT IN EDUCATION: Hunter McKoin
• MELTON MEMORIAL ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP: Abigail Palmer
• BARBARA FALLIN MONZINGO ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP:Samantha Carrigan
• PATSY HAGOOD PERRITT FIRST-GENERATION ENDOWMENT: Kylie Hickingbottom, Gracie Sinclair
• JAMES AND JANIS PIERCE ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIPIN EDUCATION: McKenzie Brown, Eden Lee, and Melanie Nolen
• CAROLYN STAMM SPILLANE ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP IN EDUCATION: Kierstyn Manly
• JJ AND PAT STAPLETON ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP: Emma-Lynn Nagot 
• EVELYN SWIHART ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP: Abigail Martin
• TEMPLETON FAMILY SCHOLARSHIP: Xylon Miles 
• LOUISIANA NATIONAL BANK JACKIE WOODARD WHITLOCK MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP: Sawyer Bufkin
• MARY C. WILSON ENDOWMENT: Anna Farish 

Scholarships for Graduate Studies in Teacher Education

• ALEX LANEY ENDOWMENT: Pamela McDonals
• GAGE SCIENCE EDUCATION ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP: Katie Compton
• ESTELLE HARRIS ENDOWMENT: Mackenzie McCartney
• EMMONS, MORELLE, AND TRISSIELEE ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP: Emily Carmichael 
• WARREN & ENID GLADDEN BUTLER ENDOWMENT: Kelsey Whitlock
• DON & ANN METZ ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP IN EDUCATION: William Dick and Amanda Magee

Student Awards     

Outstanding Elementary Future Educator Award: Leah Grace Waller 

Outstanding Secondary Future Educator Award: Caden Robinson

Outstanding Elementary Teaching Program Award: Abigail Martin

Outstanding Secondary Teaching Program Award: Macy Hemphill

Outstanding Graduate Student Award Masters in Curriculum & Instruction: Ana Quirk

Outstanding Graduate Student Award Masters in Educational Leadership: Hannah Dooley

The Louisiana Board of Regents Future Educator Honor Roll is an annual distinction awarded to two clinical residents annually. They are nominated by our own clinical faculty and just returned from this morning’s reception at the Old State Capitol in Baton Rouge. 

A native of Lake Charles, Louisiana, Caroline Broussard is a 2024-2025 TEAM Model clinical resident co-teaching 7^th graders at Calhoun Middle School in the Ouachita Parish School System. Graduating with academic honors this spring, Caroline plans to pursue a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction while teaching in North Louisiana.Caroline has modeled an impressive college career while serving in multiple leadership roles on campus and in the community. She is extremely self-motivated with a huge heart for making a difference in this world, especially with middle school students.  Her outstanding planning, teaching, and dedication to our profession makes her an obvious choice for such a prestigious honor.

Carlee France Hardin is a 2024-2025 TEAM Model clinical resident co-teaching 3^rd grade students at Legacy Elementary School. A native of Benton, Louisiana, Carlee is deeply rooted in North Louisiana and hopes to make a difference teaching elementary students in Bossier Parish Schools after graduation. We are thrilled to recognize Carlee’s excellence in the classroom and have no doubt she will continue to be a shining star making a difference in her community. She has been fully committed to completing her teaching degree at Louisiana Tech University while substitute teaching and now co-teaching daily in her hometown. It’s been a joy to see Carlee “Start, Stay, and Soar” in Bossier Parish Schools while demonstrating the stellar qualities of an educator.

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The driver of vehicle following an 18-wheeler too closely on Interstate 20 was arrested on drug charges after he was stopped for the violation.

Johnny Ray Butler, 47, of West Monroe, was stopped by a deputy of the Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s Office about 1 a.m. on April 25. The deputy found Butler to be very nervous and sweating. When asked about narcotics, Butler said he had been clean for several months and had not been in trouble over drugs for eight years.

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While waiting for another deputy to arrive, Butler said he had a smoking pipe containing methamphetamine and an empty syringe in his wallet. A search of the vehicle located a small amount of methamphetamine and several items of drug paraphernalia.

Butler was booked at the Lincoln Parish Detention Center for following too close, possession of methamphetamine, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

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

Alex Roebuck is a state champion.

The Cedar Creek sophomore entered Tuesday’s final day of the Division IV state championship with a one stroke lead and promptly held off the competition by shooting a 39 over the final nine holes to claim the individual title.

The sophomore shot a 27-hole total of 109 to edge Grand Lake’s Luke Wainwright (111) and defending state champion Logan Heltz (114) of Christ Episcopal. 

“I believe what helped me most is our Savior above,” said Roebuck. “Luke 18:27 says, ‘The things that are impossible with people are possible with God.’ I played pretty well but still had a couple of simple mistakes that I wish I could get back.”

Cedar Creek head coach Gene Vandenlangenberg praised his underclassman’s performance under pressure. 

“I am very proud of Alex,” said Vandenlangenberg. “He played with great confidence at State. His state championship was no surprise. He works hard every day to get better. He doesn’t believe in taking days off, and Alex was prepared for this opportunity.”

Roebuck joins former Cougars Patrick Blunt and Brandon Newton (4x) as individual state champions in golf.

“I love winning and believe I want it more than anyone else out there,” said Roebuck. “To beat the previous years champion (Heltz) feels even better.”

As a team, the Cougars finished third with a team total of 525, trailing only state champion Vermillion Catholic (517) and Westminster Christian (520). 

Triston Floyd (T22nd, 134), Cameron Temple (27th, 140), Paxton Burney (T29th, 142), and James Myers (T39th, 152) all contributed to the Cougars third place finish as a team.

Choudrant junior Carson Carrico tied for the low score during Tuesday’s nine holes with a 38, moving up and finishing tied for sixth place with a 27-hole total of 122. 

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This is an advertorial.

Ruston Parks and Recreation (RPAR) is bringing the action this summer with a full lineup that includes 11 youth camps, two leagues, senior adult fun, and a special event, all designed to keep kids and adults engaged, active, and connected. 

Youth Camps (Ages 4–15) 

RPAR’s summer camps cover a wide range of interests. Young athletes and campers have no shortage of options this year. Camps run from early June through late July and take place at the Ruston Sports Complex. 

Pickleball Camp 

● Dates: June 2–4 

● Ages: 5–14 

● Cost: $65 (T-shirt included) 

● Registration open until: May 12 

Volleyball Camp 

● Dates: June 4–5 

● Ages: 7–14 

● Cost: $100 (T-shirt included) 

● Registration open until: May 23 

RPAR On the Run Program 

● Dates: June 5, 10, 12, 17, 18, 24, 26 (Tues/Thurs) 

● Ages: 7–12 

● Cost: $65 (T-shirt and incentives included) 

● Registration open until: May 23 

Karate Camp 

● Dates: June 9–12 

● Ages: 5–12 

● Cost: $100 (T-shirt included) 

● Registration open until: May 12 

Basketball Camp 

● Dates: June 10–12 

● Ages: 5–13 

● Cost: $100 (T-shirt included) 

● Registration open until: May 23

Softball Camp 

● Dates: June 23–25 

● Ages: 5–15 

● Cost: $100 (T-shirt included) 

● Registration open until: May 12 

Tennis Camp 

● Dates: June 23–27 

● Ages: 5–14 

● Cost: $100 (T-shirt included) 

● Registration open until: May 23 

Cheer Camp 

● Dates: July 7–11 

● Ages: 5–11 

● Cost: $100 (T-shirt included) 

● Registration open until: July 1 

Football Camp 

● Dates: July 22–23 

● Ages: 5–14 

● Cost: $75 

● Registration open until: July 14 

Soccer Camp 

● Dates: July 28–30 

● Ages: 4–14 

● Cost: $100 (T-shirt included) 

● Registration open until: July 14 

Baseball Camp 

● Dates: TBD (June–July) 

● Ages: 5–15 

● Cost: $100 (T-shirt included) 

● Registration open until: May 23 

Each camp takes place at the Ruston Sports Complex and includes a camp T-shirt. Registration is online only and varies by camp.

Youth & Adult Leagues 

Youth Basketball League (Ages 5–14) 

Plays Monday evenings starting the week of June 9 

Cost: $65 for Ruston residents / $75 for non-residents 

Registration open until May 12 (no late sign-ups) 

Adult Co-Ed Softball League (Ages 18+) 

Plays Tuesday and Thursday evenings starting the week of May 20 

Team Fee: $350 

Registration open until May 12 (no late sign-ups) 

Special Events 

Peach Fest Pickleball Tournament – June 6 

Indoor courts | Ruston Sports Complex 

From camps that build skills and confidence to leagues and events that bring the community together, RPAR’s summer programs make it easy to stay active and involved. RPAR’s summer programs offer youth a chance to stay active and learn new skills, while adults enjoy fun league play and festive community events.. 

For full schedules and registration, visit http://www.ruston.org/registration. 

Senior Adult Fitness Program (Spring) 

Our Senior Adult Fitness Program is in full bloom this Spring! Be sure to stay tuned as we release our Summer schedule!

Join us in our multipurpose room for our group exercise classes and activities that are a great way to work on your heart health, increase strength and balance, and get to know other community members! 

Spring Group Exercise Class Schedule (April 1st- May 22nd): 

Cardio Mix (Tuesdays 8:15-9 AM & Thursdays 9:15-10 AM): Join our dynamic and engaging cardio mix class for senior adults! Enjoy low impact dance, balance, mobility, & aerobic exercises that promote heart health, energy, & overall wellbeing in a group environment. Get ready to be up on your feet & put some pep in your step! 

Strength & Stretch (Tuesdays 9:15-10 AM & Thursdays at 8:15-9 AM): This full-body workout combines chair exercises with functional strength training to improve overall strength and flexibility. Using seated exercises and light resistance training along with targeted stretches, this class helps build the mobility and endurance needed for everyday activities.

ZUMBA: (Wednesdays 3:30-4 PM): Zumba is a fun and upbeat form of exercise to get your heart rate up and body moving. This class features a mixture of different dance-style movements that together create a fun aerobic interval workout. If you enjoy upbeat music and dancing, this class is sure to be a good time! 

Yoga Flow: (Thursdays 2:15-2:45 PM): This class will work to increase flexibility, balance, and range of motion. A chair can also be used to meet a variety of fitness levels. Each session supports joint health, strength, and relaxation. 

In addition to our weekly exercise classes, each month we offer other exercise activities such as pickleball, walks in the park, line dancing, holiday parties, and more that allow us to try different ways to stay fit and explore our community. Checkout our monthly newsletter to find out what activities we are offering each month! 

For more information on our senior adult fitness program, you can try out our classes free of charge & when you’re ready register here!

If a Wal-Mart SuperCenter and a Buc-ee’s married and reproduced, they’d have to buy Arkansas and Oklahoma, maybe part of Missouri, just to have room to raise the offspring.

These are not small stores. A store is Mr. Menefee’s Esso back home where you could get an RC and a candy bar while you filled up or while Mr. Menefee helped you fix a flat on your bicycle.

Our modern-day Wal-Marts and Buc-ees are more like mini republics.

Old memories of that idea were aroused this week when “mid-2026” was announced as the much-anticipated opening of the Buc-ee’s in Ruston, followed by the breaking news that Wal-Mart plans to remodel or “refresh” some Shreveport and Bossier City locations, and completed a refresh on the Airline Drive SuperCenter store in 2024.

The SuperCenter store on Airline? The one that opened 29 years ago This Month? I can’t say it seems like yesterday, being 29 years and all. But I remember that opening because … because I was there.

It is the first time I’d ever realized that, in theory, a person could be born, educated, married, work, and die at a SuperCenter and never leave the store. If they added on a cemetery, you’d never have to leave the property of the nation’s top retailer at all. Not enver ever never.

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I mean, unless you wanted to go over to Buc-cee’s. Spend a decade or two there. Maybe work at Wal-Mart then spend your retirement years in Buc-ee’s.

I got to the sparkling new Wal-Mart SuperCenter on Airline that May morning in 1996 at 8:55 for the 9 o’clock grand opening. Had to park way out by the street, but I expected that. My fault for being so late.

I pulled into the lot behind an Olds and an Astrovan. Parked between a new Suburban and an old Reliant with no bumper and a brake light covered by red tape.

That’s so Wal-Mart; it beckons both the prince and the pauper.

I heard the end of the grand opening ceremonies. Mayors, managers, Haughton High Steppers, photographers, heads of state: they were all there. They came in peace, dressed to the nines, bearing proclamations of goodwill and best wishes for happy shopping.

The crowd applauded and swelled and breathed and, with a life of its own, moved hungrily toward the doors.

Caught in the happy mess, I felt cow-like. But crossing from pavement to welcome mat to tile, a holy-of-holies kind of feeling flooded over me and I wondered whether or not I should take my shoes off.

Wal-Mecca-Mart.

At 9:01, I bought a pack of gum and became the first person to use Checkout Stand Number 36. Friendly, courteous, efficient service. So proud.

My shopping done, I roamed.

And gazed.

Me and my Juicy Fruit had never seen anything like it.

Past the vision center and the bank and the barber shop, through the crafts and the power tools and the underrated fabric department, around by men’s fashions and down the toiletries aisle.

Sensory overload.

In the RV accessories department, I caught a shopping cart in the shin by an overeager shopper and sort of lost the will to roam. But I’d had a couple of good, solid hours under my belt by then, not nearly enough time to see the whole store but plenty of time to form some thoughts I’d never thought before, like …

Where will they install an elementary school in here? By the furnishings? Office aisle? There was already a burger place in there for all your nutritional wants and needs — unless you ever wanted maybe a vegetable.

Son: “Dad, can we eat at Wal-Mart again tonight?

Father: “Sure, son! We need a shower rod and some Quaker State anyway!”

Plus bathrooms, front AND back.

I know Sam has built a Wal-Mart in heaven by now. Since it’s heaven, every parking spot, somehow, is by the front door.

And there’s no line at Checkout Stand Number 36.

Contact Teddy at teddy@latech.edu

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