DUBACH, La. — Following Tiffany Young’s move to Cypress Springs earlier this week, Lincoln Parish School Board Superintendent Ricky Durrett announced Friday that I.A. Lewis Assistant Principal and former Ruston Elementary Principal Mandy Brown has been name the new Dubach Principal effective June 1, 2026.

“I think Mandy’s the perfect fit for Dubach School moving forward,” Durrett said. “She’s got great experience being a previous principal. She’s did an outstanding job at Ruston Elementary and she was a terrific testing coordinator for us at I.A. Lewis. She’ll continue what Principal Young had done and move Dubach School forward.”

Brown expressed her gratitude to the school district and her excitement for her new role at Dubach School in a message to the Lincoln Parish Journal.

“I’m incredibly thankful for every opportunity I’ve been given along the way, because each one has been different and each one has shaped me into the educator and leader I am today,” Brown said. “I’m excited to step into a new school community and serve in a different leadership role. I will continue the good work that Mrs. Young started by continuing to support students and teachers, and make a positive impact in the Dubach community. I love Lincoln Parish because of its strong sense of community and Dubach has just that. I am excited to become a part of that community!

“We have had an amazing year at I.A. Lewis. Working with (Principal) Wendell Crowe and (Assistant Principal) Brooke Hoefler has definitely been a highlight of my career. I have learned so much from them that I will take with me to Dubach.”

During Brown’s tenure as principal, Ruston Elementary received a “B” rating in the 2023 School Performance Scores.

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Courtesy of Louisiana Tech University Communications

The Parkinson Resource Center at Louisiana Tech University hosted “Living Well with Parkinson’s,” bringing together individuals living with Parkinson’s disease, family members, health care professionals, students, and community members.

The event was made possible through a Community Grant from the Parkinson’s Foundation and provided education, support, and networking opportunities for those affected by Parkinson’s disease across North Louisiana and East Texas.

Featured speakers included Louisiana Tech alumnus and neurosurgeon Dr. Jamie Toms, who discussed the role of deep brain stimulation in managing Parkinson’s disease. Movement disorder specialists Dr. Natalia Chunga and Dr. Harleen Kaur, neurologists with Ochsner LSU Health in Shreveport, also presented information on current treatment options and answered questions from attendees.

“This was a remarkable event that drew families from East Texas and across North Louisiana to Tech’s campus to learn more about Parkinson’s disease,” said Dr. Donna Hood, director of the Parkinson Resource Center. “Having three physicians who specialize in the treatment of Parkinson’s provide so much information and answer many questions from the audience was wonderful for those in our region.”

The event also offered hands-on learning opportunities for Louisiana Tech students who assist with Parkinson’s programming on campus. Students helped connect families with University-based resources and gained deeper insight into treatment approaches and patient care.

Kaleigh Nale, a Winter 2026 nursing graduate, has served as a PRC nursing student scholar for the past two years. Through the program, she has worked closely with individuals and families while supporting the center’s Voice, Music & Movement and Rock Steady Boxing programs.

Established in 2019, the PRC Nursing Student Scholar Program has supported 20 Nursing students. In addition to receiving scholarships, participants gain specialized experience in Parkinson’s care, deepen their understanding of the disease, and build meaningful connections with individuals living with Parkinson’s.

Although there is no cure for Parkinson’s disease, treatment options can help individuals maintain a strong quality of life. The Parkinson Resource Center at Louisiana Tech was established through a grant from the Parkinson’s Foundation and developed by Edmond J. Safra Visiting Nurse Scholars Dr. Tara Haskins and Hood from the University’s Division of Nursing. Through collaboration among faculty, students, and campus resources, the Center connects individuals with Parkinson’s and their care partners to programs and services that support health and well-being.

The Center’s mission is to promote a healthy Parkinson’s community by connecting people, programs, ideas, and resources.

The PRC offers weekly Voice classes Wednesdays from 9-10 a.m. (September through May) and Music & Movement classes Wednesdays from 10-11 a.m. year-round at the Lambright Sports and Wellness Center. Supported by the Parkinson’s Foundation, these programs are free for individuals living with Parkinson’s disease and their care partners and are designed to engage the body, mind, and voice in a supportive community environment.

For more information about the Center, contact Dr. Donna Hood at 318.257.4287 or dhood@latech.edu.

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By Judith Roberts

Forty-five third graders from Ruston Elementary received an opportunity to learn about good dental hygiene and received a cleaning through Johnston & Murphy Dental Care’s fifth annual Give a Kid a Smile Day.  

While the staff at Johnston & Murphy organized and hosted the event, other community partners, including the Louisiana Tech Pre-Dental Club and members of the football team, Northern Louisiana Medical Center and the Lincoln Rotary, also pitched in to make the day an exciting one for the students.  

“They have been counting down to this day,” said RES principal Stephanie Griffin. “They came to school excited and ready to go. They already had their bus buddy lined up and who they were going to work with. It has been a very exciting day.” 

Students were chosen based on teacher requests, student requests, and need to allow them to be exposed to the availability of services in town. 

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“They learn the basics of caring for their mouth, brushing, flossing, proper techniques – those things,” said David Murphy, co-owner and dentist at Johnston & Murphy. “They learn about good nutritional choices, and they get a set of X-rays if we get them and a dental cleaning. It’s a big day and a lot packed in to four hours.” 

Co-owner and dentist Lamar Johnston said his favorite part of the day is seeing the kids’ faces at the event. 

“They’re remarkable,” Johnston said. “They’re so smart, they’re so receptive, and just seeing their faces, and watching them absorb what we tell them. I love it.”  

An event with more than 50 volunteers and nearly that many participants can’t happen without proper logistics, which is where Amanda DeMoss, Johnston & Murphy marketing director, steps in.  

“Even though we serve people every day, all day, this is something special,” DeMoss said. “These kids can go home and teach their sibling something they learned here today.” 

DeMoss said dental decay is the number one childhood illness in the country – and it’s preventable. 

“If we teach them at a young age how to take care of their teeth, whether by brushing or flossing and eating good things, and educating them, it could help prevent illness,” she said. “And I get to see how the staff executes this vision. This whole staff has servants’ hearts, and the community is really important to us.”  

And while the morning was full of music, balloons, fun activities, and even a dental mascot, real work was accomplished in educating – and even overcoming fears. 

“We had a student who attended today, and he has gone to the dentist, but he’s never sat in the chair,” Griffin said. “Today he was able to sit in the chair and half a full X-ray, and he made it work. His peers were there with him, and he was able to overcome his fears. He was able to get the full experience.” 

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

A Ruston man was arrested on the Grambling State University campus last week after he was seen wearing a mask and fleeing when spotted by officers.

Trace Calcot, 19, was arrested for numerous charges after a foot chase on the evening of March 19.

Officers on foot patrol saw Calcot wearing a hoodie and a mask with a backpack slung over his shoulder. As they approached him, he fled on foot.

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Despite commands to stop, Calcot refused, running through Wheatley Hall, then into Douglas Hall. He was confronted in Bethune Hall.

Calcot allegedly swung at an officer, and then threw an iPad, striking the officer. After a brief struggle, Calcot was taken into custody.

During a search, officers found about 61 grams of suspected marijuana in the backpack.

Calcot was booked at the Lincoln Parish Detention Center on wearing a mask in public, five counts of resisting an officer, possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, violation of the drug-free zone, and aggravated battery of a police officer.

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

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

A Simsboro-area man was arrested for simple battery after he allegedly beat his uncle over a financial matter.

Remington Brazzel, 21, was arrested March 17 after the alleged victim sought treatment at the Northern Louisiana Medical Center.

The deputy interviewed the victim at the emergency room. According to the deputy’s report, the victim had a 1.5” laceration under his right eye and was bleeding from his nose and mouth. The victim also complained of being hit on the back of his head.

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The man said his nephew, Remington Brazzel, jumped him and beat him up after he confronted Remington over money he owes his father.

Remington Brazzel was interviewed at his residence. He said his uncle came at him. He said, “I did beat his —,” adding it was self-defense.

The deputy asked Remington Brazzel if he had any defensive injuries and he could not show any. The knuckles on both of his fists were damaged and bleeding. The deputy did not observe any damage to either of the victim’s hands.

Brazzel was booked at the Lincoln Parish Detention Center.

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

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.

RIP, March Madness. 

It hurts me. To me, the first few rounds of the NCAA men’s basketball tournament has always been the most exciting, enjoyable time of the sporting year.

I go all the way back to the 1980s when I was in elementary school and high school, watching my Louisiana Tech Bulldogs play in the annual event year after year.

I became hooked, probably starting with an alley-oop one-handed slam by the Mailman himself in an upset win over Fresno State in 1984. Sold.

And although my team hasn’t played in the event for some time, March Madness has become something that I look forward to every year. 

Why? Because it’s the best reality TV there is IMO. Or at least it was.

Who will ever forget UMBC becoming the first ever No. 16 seed to defeat a No. 1 seed in 2018, downing the top-ranked Virginia Cavaliers. What about Fairleigh Dickinson following suit in 2023 by beating No. 1 seed Purdue?

Then there was the heart-warming story of Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt following her beloved Loyola Chicago Ramblers all the way to the 2018 Final Four. Other Final Four dark horses over the years like VCU (No. 11 seed in 2011) and George Mason (No. 11 seed in 2006) and Wichita State (No. 9 seed in 2013)

How about the Butler Bulldogs who advanced to the title game in 2010 and 2011. Florida Atlantic and San Diego State both played in the 2023 national title game. 

Those are the teams and the memories that make the NCAA Tournament so great. 

Don’t get me wrong. I vividly remember MJ’s jumper to beat Georgetown in 1982 in the Louisiana Superdome. It was the beginning of the career of the best basketball player to ever play the game.

Or Lorenzo Charles grabbing the desperation almost halfcourt shot by teammate Dereck Whittenberg and dunking it at the buzzer as NC State upset Phi Slamma Jamma and the Houston Cougars in Albuquerque in 1983. I can still see Jim Valvano running around looking for someone to hug, God rest his soul.

There have been so many great moments that make the NCAA Tournament so great. 

But the Madness in March is about the upsets. Unless you are a diehard fan of one of the blue bloods of college basketball, one of the big boys, the NCAA Tournament is about upsets and Cinderella stories. 

And quite frankly, they have been few and far between the last few years. 

No. 11 seed Texas beating No. 6 seed BYU … not an upset. No. 10 seed Texas A&M beating No. 7 seed St. Mary’s … not an upset. 

In fact, it’s kind of ho hum. 

The past three years, the number of true Cinderella-type upsets in the first round has dwindled. And you can forget about one of the true underdogs making it to the Sweet 16. 

2024 saw the likes of Yale, Duquesne, Grand Canyon, and James Madison pick up first round upsets, but alas, none won in their next match-up. That year Gonzaga, Creighton and San Diego State made it to the Sweet 16 although I don’t consider Gonzaga or San Diego State a mid-major in men’s hoops. 

In 2025, the only double digit seeds that won opening round games were No. 12 McNeese, No. 12 Colorado State, No. 11 Drake, No. 10 New Mexico, and No. 10 Arkansas. I don’t view SEC Arkansas as a Cinderella. None of the other four made it past the round of 32. BYU was the only non-P4 to make it Sweet 16.

This year, the only double digit seeds to win in the first round were No. 10 Texas A&M, No. 11 Texas, No. 11 VCU and No. 12 High Point. Throw out the two SEC teams and that leaves VCU and High Point and neither made it past the second round.  

So why the recent drought in the Sister Jean’s of the world? My theory … and it’s only that … is the transfer portal and NIL. 

I think it’s a pretty sound one. 

One of the reasons that teams like Butler, VCU, George Mason, and Loyola-Chicago could make runs to the Final Fours in the past was because they had veteran, senior-laden rosters, while so many of the blue bloods had freshman and sophomores. 

The Kentucky’s of the world had a lot of one-and-done-types; guys who played for one (maybe two years) and then were departing to the NBA. It’s hard to advance to the Final Four with that type of roster filled with nothing but talented, yet inexperienced, underclassmen.

But now thanks to the NCAA and the courts we have turned college athletics into a minor league system where the mid-majors have become a feeder system for the blue bloods. It’s ruining the pandemonium and the excitement of March Madness. 

Each and every year has become free agency in college athletics. Every player on every team is a free agent, who can go to the highest bidder. Imagine that scenario in the NFL or the NBA. It would be chaos. 

How do you build a sustainable roster? You can’t. 

I have some ideas on how to solve some of this (contracts with buyouts, one-time transfer), but the NCAA isn’t knocking down my door to ask my opinion. 

I still love college athletics. I still think there is great value in the college athletic experience for student athletes. Tremendous value, but not as much as it once had due to the lack of continuity. 

The pendulum has to start to swing back at some point or more and more things like March Madness will continue to be impacted, negatively in my opinion. 

There will be a national champion crowned in a few weeks. And yes, there will be some exciting games pitting blue blood vs. blue blood along the way. 

But the final chapter in the Cinderella story that is March Madness may have already been written, unless there is some change. 

I hope I’m wrong. Only time will tell. 

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Courtesy report

CHICAGO (March 20, 2026) — In its 41st year celebrating the nation’s best high school athletes, Gatorade today announced Ahmad Hudson of Ruston High School is the 2025-26 Gatorade Louisiana Boys Basketball Player of the Year.

Gatorade Player of the Year is the top honor in high school sports, celebrating the nation’s best high school athletes for their excellence in sport, academics and community. The award recognizes Hudson as Louisiana’s best high school boys basketball player, and he joins an elite legacy that spans professional athletes and coaches to CEOs, such as Jayson Tatum (2015-16, Chaminade College Preparatory School, MO), Cooper Flagg (2023-24, Montverde Academy, FL) and Cameron Boozer (2022-23 & 2024-25, Christopher Columbus High School, FL).

The 6-foot-8, 250-pound junior forward and center averaged 19.7 points and 13.5 rebounds per game this past season, leading the Bearcats (23-4) to the Division I Non-Select State Tournament championship game. Hudson also averaged 3.0 blocks, 2.1 assists and 2.0 steals, recording 32 points, 24 rebounds, seven blocks and four steals in Ruston’s 63-60 loss to Zachary High School in the state final. The 2025 Class 5A State Player of the Year, Hudson is ranked as one of the nation’s Top 25 prospects in his class as both a basketball forward and football tight end.

Hudson has volunteered locally at his former elementary school and with the Boys and Girls Clubs of North Louisiana, assisting with homework and creative activities. A participant in a children’s ministry, he has also donated his time to fundraising campaigns for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. “Ahmad is a man amongst boys at the high school level,” said Matt McKay, Pro Insight Founder & CEO. “Beyond his outlier physical tools, he has a blossoming two-way skillset that seemingly develops further with each viewing.”

Hudson has maintained an A-minus average in the classroom. He will begin his senior year of high school this fall. The Gatorade Player of the Year program annually recognizes one state winner from each of the 50 states and Washington D.C., in 12 different sports: football, girls volleyball, boys and girls cross country, boys and girls basketball, baseball, softball, boys and girls soccer, and boys and girls track & field. In total, 610 high school athletes are honored each year.

From the pool of state winners, one national winner is selected in each of the 12 sports. The selection process is administered by the Gatorade Player of the Year Selection Committee, which leverages experts including coaches, scouts, media and others as sources to help evaluate and determine the winners in each sport.

As part of Gatorade’s commitment to breaking down barriers in sport, every Player of the Year also receives a grant to donate to a social impact partner. To date, the Gatorade Player of the Year program has provided more than $6.4 million in grants to winners across more than 2,200 organizations.

To learn more about the Gatorade Player of the Year program, check out past winners or to nominate student-athletes, visit playeroftheyear.gatorade.com or follow us on social media on Instagram at instagram.com/Gatorade, Facebook at facebook.com/GatoradePOY and X(Twitter) at x.com/Gatorade.

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LPJ Sports Report

Bearcats bounce back to take district series against Neville

MONROE — Ruston High (12-8) answered after a close loss Thursday to Neville with a pair of weekend wins, using explosive early innings in both contests to secure a pair of decisive district victories — first 15-5 in a run-rule win Friday and then 11-2 Saturday.

“Great bounce back to end the weekend by wining the series against Neville,” Ruston High Head Coach Bryan Beck said. “We lost a couple of very tough games in the first half of the week and to see our kids continue to compete and fight for each makes you very proud to be a Ruston Bearcat!”

Neville struck first in Friday’s opener when Dan Evans delivered an RBI single in the first inning, but Ruston answered immediately. The Bearcats erupted for five runs in the bottom half, highlighted by a two-run double from Kenden Freeman, to seize control.

Neville briefly pulled even in the second on a run-scoring double by Lane Hajj, but Ruston responded with its biggest inning of the night. The Bearcats plated seven runs in the bottom of the second to break the game open, then added insurance in the third on run-scoring plays from Tyler Osborne and Lander Smith.

Ruston’s offense piled up hits throughout the night, with JP Moak, Nolan Parnell, Sam Hartwell, Jackson Lee and Hunter Soto all producing multi-hit efforts. Freeman drove in a team-high three runs, while Lee sparked the offense on the bases.

On the mound, Jackson Lee provided steady relief with three scoreless innings after Colt Lary worked the opening frames.

Hajj led Neville offensively with a pair of RBIs, while Alex Tonore added multiple hits.

Ruston carried that momentum into Saturday and wasted little time taking command. The Bearcats capitalized on early opportunities in the first inning, taking advantage of an error and stringing together productive at-bats from Freeman, Jackson Burroughs and Dillon Williams to build a sizable lead.

Ruston extended its advantage in the second on an RBI single from Nolan Parnell and continued to add on in the third behind run-scoring efforts from Lander Smith and JP Moak.

Jackson Lee again paced the lineup, collecting three hits at the top of the order, while Parnell and Moak each drove in two runs. Ruston also showed patience at the plate, drawing multiple walks to keep pressure on Neville’s pitching staff.

Peyton Nations delivered a strong start, working deep into the game and limiting Neville’s offense, while Sam Hartwell closed things out with a scoreless inning in relief.

Evans, Tonore and Hajj each recorded hits for Neville, which showed aggressiveness on the bases but was unable to overcome Ruston’s early deficits.

Ruston returns to action tonight on the road against Loyola Prep in Shreveport.

Yates, Cedar Creek Edge Jena in Pitchers’ Duel

RUSTON — In a game dominated by pitching, Cedar Creek (14-2) did just enough at the plate to slip past Jena for a narrow 3-2 victory Saturday.

Both teams were sharp on the mound, keeping scoring chances limited through the early innings. Jena broke through first in the fourth inning when Quinton Otwell delivered a run-scoring double to give the visitors a brief advantage.

Cedar Creek answered in the bottom half of the inning, as Kade Luker lined a single to center field to even the score.

The Cougars took control in the fifth. Ryan Coleman sparked the go-ahead rally with an RBI double, and Jax Doiron followed by drawing a bases-loaded walk to extend the lead.

That was enough support for Connor Yates, who turned in a strong outing on the mound. The right-hander worked six innings, allowing five hits and two runs while keeping Jena from stringing together big innings. Doiron closed the door in the final frame to secure the save.

Cedar Creek spread out its offense, with Noah Smith, Eli Slocum, Luker, Coleman, Carter Nichols and Doiron each collecting a hit. Luker and Coleman each drove in a run, while the Cougars also showed patience at the plate and aggressiveness on the bases throughout the game.

Jena threatened late but could not overcome the deficit. Otwell and Jonathan Willis each drove in a run, and Carson Willis led the team with a pair of hits.

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Aggies Break It Open Early, Roll Past Quitman

CHOUDRANT — Choudrant (9-10) erupted for a big second inning and never looked back, cruising to a lopsided 13-2 win over Quitman on Friday.

The Aggies struck first in the opening inning on a run-scoring fielder’s choice from Cy Spatafora, but Quitman answered in the bottom half when Hudson Pullig drove in a run to even the score.

Choudrant quickly seized control in the second. The Aggies pushed across six runs in the inning, capitalizing on timely hitting and patience at the plate. Cam Bagwell delivered the biggest blow of the frame, driving in three runs to break the game open.

The Aggies continued to build their lead in the third, getting run-scoring contributions from Braden Bagwell, Cash Camp and Spatafora to extend the advantage.

Camp handled the rest on the mound, turning in a strong start. The right-hander worked six innings, allowing four hits and two runs while striking out seven. Bagwell added a scoreless inning in relief to close out the game.

Spatafora and Josh Sellers led the Aggies offensively with multi-hit performances at the top of the lineup, while Spatafora and Bagwell each drove in three runs. Choudrant also showed discipline at the plate, drawing multiple walks to keep pressure on Quitman’s pitching staff.

Pullig drove in a run for Quitman, and Kace West led the Wolverines with three hits, but the visitors were unable to keep pace after the Aggies’ big inning.

Choudrant returns to action Tuesday against Simsboro.

Simsboro (14-5) will be back in action tonight against Downsville.

Cedar Creek 8, Florien 3 (Friday)

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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. 

Monday, March 23
11:30 a.m.: Lunch on Us (Presbyterian Church, 212 North Bonner Street., Ruston) — everyone welcome
6 p.m.: Toastmasters International meeting (Louisiana Center for the Blind, 101 South Trenton Street)
6-9 p.m.: Creative Meetups (Creatives at Work, 301 N. Trenton)

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Tuesday, March 24
10 a.m.: Storytime (Lincoln Parish Library)
4 p.m.: Crafternoon (Lincoln Parish Library)
6 p.m.: Video-led exercise class (Lincoln Parish Library)
6 p.m.: GSU baseball

Wednesday, March 25
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
12-1 p.m.: Rotary Club meeting (Historic Fire Station)

Thursday, March 26
11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Kiwanis Club lunch and program (Trinity Methodist Church fellowship hall)
4 p.m.: Tween Time (Lincoln Parish Library)
6 p.m.: Teen Time (Lincoln Parish Library)
6 p.m.: Southern A’Chord Chorus rehearsal (Presbyterian Church fellowship hall, 212 N. Bonner St.; open to all women singers)

Friday, March 27
1 p.m.: Grambling State softball
2-5 p.m.: Dogs in Downtown: Makers Market (Downtown Ruston)
4 p.m.: Family Fun Friday: Women’s History Month Bingo (Lincoln Parish Library)
6 p.m.: LA Tech baseball
6 p.m.: LA Tech softball

Saturday, March 28
9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Farmers Market
10 a.m. to 2 p.m.: Board Game Meet Up (Lincoln Parish Library)
10 a.m.: Master Gardeners present “The Cutting Garden: A Bounty of Blooms” (Jack Beard Room, Lincoln Parish Library)
Noon: Grambling State softball
2 p.m.: LA Tech baseball
2 p.m.: LA Tech softball
2 p.m.: Grambling State softball

Sunday, March 29
11 a.m.: LA Tech softball
1 p.m.: LA Tech baseball

 Monday, March 30
9 a.m.: Preparing to Vote: Understanding Louisiana’s Closed Party Primary (Lincoln Parish Library)
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, March 31
10 a.m.: Storytime (Lincoln Parish Library)
4 p.m.: Crafternoon (Lincoln Parish Library)
4 p.m.: LA Tech baseball
6 p.m.: Video-led exercise class (Lincoln Parish Library)
6 p.m.: Adult Craft Night (Lincoln Parish Library; registration required by calling 318-513-5510)

Wednesday, April 1
April Fools Day
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
12-1 p.m.: Rotary Club meeting (Historic Fire Station)

Thursday, April 2
11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Kiwanis Club lunch and program (Trinity Methodist Church fellowship hall)
6 p.m.: Southern A’Chord Chorus rehearsal (Presbyterian Church fellowship hall, 212 N. Bonner St.; open to all women singers)
6 p.m.: GSU baseball

Friday, April 3
Good Friday
3 p.m.: GSU baseball

Saturday, April 4
9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Farmers Market
1 p.m.: GSU baseball

Sunday, April 5
Easter

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.

Bulldog Baseball 13, NMSU 8 (Friday)

NMSU 13, Bulldogs 10 (Saturday)

NMSU 8, Bulldogs 6 (Sunday)

Louisiana Tech dropped the rubber match of its Conference USA series with New Mexico State, falling 8-6 on Sunday at Presley Askew Field.

Tech won Friday’s opener 13-8 before falling 13-10 on Saturday. 

On Sunday, Louisiana Tech (15-10, 4-2 CUSA) struck first for the third straight game. Cade Patterson led off with a single and later scored on an RBI base hit by Trey Hawsey. A double play brought home another run, giving the Bulldogs a 2-0 lead in the first inning.

New Mexico State (11-12, 3-3 CUSA) answered quickly. A leadoff home run sparked a four-run first inning that included a double, a triple and an infield single to put the Aggies ahead 3-2.

The Bulldogs evened the score in the second on a solo home run by Matt Houston, but the Aggies regained the lead with a series of singles and a walk. Hawsey tied it again with a solo homer, making it 4-4 through five innings.

New Mexico State broke the tie in the fifth, taking advantage of a two-out error and a walk before delivering a two-run single to extend the lead to 7-4.

Louisiana Tech cut the deficit to one in the sixth when Sebastian Mexico drove in two runs with a single after the Bulldogs loaded the bases.

The Aggies added an insurance run in the seventh following a leadoff single and an error, pushing the lead to 8-6.

Louisiana Tech threatened in the eighth with a leadoff single, but a double play ended the rally. The Bulldogs were retired in order in the ninth.

Hawsey led Louisiana Tech with three hits, including a home run and two RBIs. Houston also homered and threw out three runners attempting to steal. Nate Crider allowed one hit and struck out two over 1 2/3 innings of relief.

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Jacksonville State 3, Bulldog Softball 0 (Friday)

Jacksonville State 4, Bulldogs 2 (Saturday)

Jacksonville State 4, Bulldogs 2 – 8 Innings (Sunday)

It was a weekend of what could have been for Louisiana Tech as the Bulldogs led late in the final two games of an important Conference USA series against Jacksonville State. 

However, the league-leading Gamecocks (23-9, 8-1) always found a way to make a play late, whether at the plate or in the field, in sweeping Louisiana Tech (17-14, 3-6).

In Sunday’s finale, Louisiana Tech led for six ½ innings before Jacksonville State tied the game in the bottom of the seventh and used a two-run walk-off home run in the bottom of the eighth to defeat the Bulldogs 4-2 at Jana McGinnis Field. 

Jax State trailed 2-1 and was down to its final strike in the bottom of the 7th but a double to left field plated the tying run. 

The loss spoiled a solid effort in the circle by Allie Floyd. It was the theme for the entire weekend as Tech pitchers were solid in the circle, but the lack of offensive production throughout the series kept Jacksonville State in the game and ultimately the Gamecocks showed why they are in first place in the league. 

Saturday’s game saw Laney Johnson take a 2-0 lead into the sixth inning before Jax State scored four runs on three hits — including the go-ahead home run off Tech reliever Bryannah Campos — as the Gamecocks rallied for that victory. 

Tech was barely outhit in the series (17-16) but 16 strikeouts and only two extra base hits during the entire three-game tilt were too much to overcome. 

The Bulldogs travel to face LSU Tuesday in Baton Rouge.

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Tiger Baseball 9, Alabama A&M 8 (Friday)

Tigers 19, Alabama A&M 4 (Saturday)

Tigers 13, Alabama A&M 3 (Sunday)

Grambling State completed a weekend sweep with a dominant 13-3 victory over Alabama A&M on Sunday afternoon at Wilbert Ellis Field at R.w.E. Jones Park.

The Tigers (8-14, 5-1 SWAC) used timely hitting and a series of big innings to secure the run-rule win, closing out a strong three-game stretch against the Bulldogs.

Grambling wasted little time responding after Alabama A&M plated a run in the top of the first inning. The Tigers answered with three runs in the bottom half, capitalizing on patience at the plate and defensive miscues to take a 3-1 lead.

The momentum continued in the third inning when James Woody delivered the biggest swing of the day, launching a three-run home run to extend the advantage to 6-1. Woody finished with a game-high five RBIs, going 3-for-4 at the plate.

An explosive fourth inning put the game out of reach. Cameron Hill blasted a three-run homer to left-center field, and Aidan Lopez followed with a solo shot as Grambling stretched its lead to 10-1.

Hill and Lopez each recorded multiple hits, with Hill driving in three runs and Lopez adding two RBIs. The Tigers tallied eight hits but made them count, scoring 13 runs while drawing six walks.

On the mound, Shaun Mante turned in a solid outing, pitching five innings and allowing three runs on five hits while striking out two. Rafael Capistran closed the door with two scoreless innings, striking out three and allowing just one hit.

Alabama A&M managed six hits in the contest, highlighted by a two-run home run from Chris Walker in the fifth inning, but could not keep pace with Grambling’s offensive surge.

The Tigers added insurance in the sixth inning, plating three more runs behind RBI hits from Chris Marcellus and Woody to enforce the run-rule margin.

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Prairie View 19, Tiger Softball 1 (Friday)

Prairie View 8, Tigers 0 (Saturday)

Prairie View 9, Tigers 5 (Saturday)

Grambling State dropped both games of a Southwestern Athletic Conference softball doubleheader to Prairie View A&M on Saturday, falling 8-0 in the opener before a 9-5 loss in Game 2.

Prairie View swept the series, defeating GSU 19-1 in Friday’s opener.

In the first game, Grambling State struggled offensively, managing just one hit. Prairie View A&M broke through in the second inning on an RBI single and added another run in the third to build a 2-0 lead.

The Panthers extended their advantage with four runs in the fourth inning and added two more in the fifth to secure a run-rule victory.

Cadashia Collins recorded the Tigers’ lone hit, finishing 1 for 2 at the plate. Jaidan Richard took the loss, allowing eight runs on 12 hits.

In Game 2, Grambling State took an early lead in the first inning when Z’Natria Evans delivered an RBI single to score Collins for a 1-0 advantage.

Prairie View A&M answered in the second inning to tie the game, then used a three-run fourth inning to take control. The Panthers added three more runs in the fifth to extend the lead to 7-1.

Grambling State responded with a four-run sixth inning to cut the deficit to 7-5. Tavia Leadon highlighted the rally with a two-RBI single, while Hailey Hughes added an RBI double. Kamille Carter also drove in a run during the inning.

Prairie View A&M answered with two runs in the bottom of the sixth to push the lead to 9-5 and close out the sweep.

Collins led Grambling State offensively in Game 2, going 3 for 3. Evans added two hits and an RBI, while Leadon finished with two RBIs.

Hailei Harrell started in the circle for Grambling State, with Richard providing relief.

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Courtesy of LA Tech Athletic Communications

Golf

Louisiana Tech saved its best for last Sunday, shooting a season-low six under as the team climbed three spots for a 12th-place finish at the Linger Longer Invitational.

LA Tech’s 282 was the sixth-best round three among a loaded field that featured nine teams ranked in the top 75 in the country. Helping the Bulldogs do that were three players who shot under par in the third round at the Great Waters Course at Reynolds Lake Oconee.

Anchoring the team in the final round was Abel Derksen. The sophomore put together his best round of the season, shooting five under (67). His round started off with a birdie on the opening hole No. 10. He would add two more birdies on No. 14 and No. 18 to shoot 33 on the back.

His momentum carried over to the front where he took advantage of both Par 5s by making birdies, plus a birdie on the Par 3 No. 4. It was nearly a bogey-free round for Derksen until a bogey on the final hole sent him to the clubhouse with a career-low 67, tied for the second lowest hole by a Bulldog this season.

Derksen would jump 49 spots to finish tied for 45th on the player leaderboard along with teammate Seth Campbell who shot three over 75 in round three. It was the lone scorecard over par used by LA Tech in the final round as Oskari Schuvalow and Morton Bailey both finished in the red.

Schuvalow capitalized on an eagle on the Par 5 No. 6 to shoot 69 while Bailey’s back nine that featured four birdies propelled him to a one under 71. Schuvalow was the top finisher for the Bulldogs, climbing 30 spots in round three to tie for 34th (73-75-69=217).

LA Tech was able to leapfrog Rutgers, UNC Greensboro, and Jacksonville. Georgia ran away with the team title, finishing 21 strokes ahead of second-place Alabama.

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Bowling

Louisiana Tech bowling registered a third-place finish at the Conference USA Bowling Championship after going 5-2 at Colonial Lanes in Harahan over the last four days.

The Bulldogs opened the tournament with a 2-1 victory over Sam Houston on Wednesday before falling to Nebraska, 2-1, on Thursday morning to move into the contenders bracket.

From there, LA Tech responded with four straight wins over the next three days. The Bulldogs took down Valparaiso 2-0 on Thursday afternoon, followed by a 2-1 win over Sacred Heart on Friday morning.

Tech continued its run with a 2-0 victory over Vanderbilt Friday afternoon and added a 2-0 win over Nebraska on Saturday morning.

The Bulldogs’ run came to an end Saturday afternoon in the match to advance to the championship, falling 2-1 to Arkansas State.

LA Tech now awaits the 2026 NCAA Bowling Selection Show, set for Wednesday, March 25 at 3 p.m. CT on NCAA.com.

The broadcast will reveal the 19-team field for the National Collegiate Women’s Bowling Championship, including 11 automatic qualifiers and eight at-large selections.

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Track and Field

The Louisiana Tech men’s and women’s track and field teams saw several strong performances on Saturday at the LSU Opener in Baton Rouge, posting 22 top-five finishes with 15 of those among the top three and two individual victories.

A’reil Williams secured a first-place finish in the women’s high jump, leaping 1.75 meters to record her sixth career jump of 1.75 meters or higher in an outdoor event. It was also her 10th career top-three outdoor finish.

The day was highlighted by Jamara Patterson’s performance in the women’s 400. She ran a time of 51.56 to set a new meet record and outdoor program record, along with securing an event win. She broke the meet record’s previous time of 52.13 that was set by LSU’s Amber Anning on April 9, 2022.

The outdoor program record she broke was previously set by Nina Gilbert in 2006, who ran a time of 52.34 at LA Tech’s home meet that season.

Both the men’s and women’s 4×100 relay saw top three finishes in their respective events as well. The women’s squad comprised of Praise Ofoku, Tyrica Sterrett, Jaitlyn Ware and Shayann Demeritte finished third with a time of 45.11

The men-comprised of Carl Murray IV, Abdulraof Oriade Rashid, Lukundo Kapambalala and Karo Oghomi-saw a runner-up finish clocking 39.64. Their time was good to tie the 10th-fastest time in outdoor program history.

Oscar Smith returned to the track, making his season debut in the 110-meter hurdles. The graduate ran a time of 13.71 to finish third.

Osaretin Joy Usenbor, Tyhra Charles and Nia Wiley rounded out the top five in the women’s 400, taking the third, fourth and fifth-place spots. Sabastian Bradley-Reed finished third in the men’s 400 with a time of 46.68, while Rickey Williams III finished fifth clocking 47.44.

Sterrett and Ware finished second and third in the women’s 100, while Oghomi and Madonna Favour also took second and third in the men’s 100. Two of Tech’s three javelin throwers also saw top three finishes. Annie Jones finished as the runner-up with a throw of 39.02 meters, and Zachary Drake finished in third for the men with a throw of 62.54 meters.

Ware and Oghomi each earned their second top-three individual finish of the meet, with Ware finishing second in the women’s 200 while Oghomi finished third in the men’s event.

Louisiana Tech is back in action for Baylor’s Clyde Hart Classic in Waco, Texas. The meet opens on Friday, March 27 and concludes on Saturday, March 28.

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Tennis

Louisiana Tech had its nine-match win streak come to an end Sunday as the Bulldogs fell 4-0 to 54th-ranked Rice at the George R. Brown Tennis Center.

LA Tech (12-3) struggled to find its rhythm from the outset, getting off to a slow and sluggish start that proved difficult to overcome.  Rice (10-5) seized early control by winning the doubles point with victories on courts one and two.

That lack of momentum carried into singles play as the Owls won the first set on five of the six courts.  Rice would ultimately win in straight sets on courts three, four, and five to clinch the match before the Bulldogs could mount a response.

LA Tech showed signs of life on a few courts, including a 6-3 first-set win by Zoie Epps against Darya Schwartzman at the No. 1 position.  There was also Isabella Walker who was rallying back, one game away from forcing a third set against Ema Mravcova at the No. 6 spot prior to the match being abandoned.

LA Tech will be back in action on Saturday, March 28 when the Bulldogs play host to Texas State.  First serve is set for 11 a.m. CT at the LA Tech Tennis Complex.

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Misty Byrd, age 50, of Minden, LA, passed away peacefully on March 20, 2026. Born on March 20, 1976, in Pittsburg, TX, Misty brought joy and warmth to all who knew her throughout her life.

A devoted Christian, Misty lived her faith through her actions and interactions with others. She had an extraordinary gift for making people feel welcomed and valued. Her kind words and radiant smile left a lasting impression on everyone she encountered. Misty’s ability to connect with others was truly remarkable—she never met a stranger and always found a way to brighten someone’s day.

Misty is lovingly remembered by her mother, Wanda Jeanette Carter; her sisters, Jennifer Byrd (husband Chuck) and Angela Mullins (husband Bart); her brother, Jonathan Bourn, along with his children Sawyer and Hendricks; her nephew Jacob Byrd; and her niece Ashleigh Colvin (husband Kirby) and their children Lincoln and Andy. She was preceded in death by her father, Sammy Byrd.

Misty’s legacy of kindness and compassion will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know her. May her memory bring comfort to all who mourn her passing. Graveside services will be held at 10:00 AM, Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at Bear Creek Cemetery, Bear Creek Road, Bryceland, LA with Rev. Reagan Colvin officiating.  Services are under the direction of Owens Memorial Chapel Funeral Home of Ruston.  

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Misty Michelle Byrd 
March 20, 1976 – March 20, 2026 
Graveside service: Tuesday, March 24, 2026, 10:00 AM, Bear Creek Cemetery, Bienville  

Gerald Van Lyles     
June 21, 1947 – March 12, 2026     
Memorial Visitation: Monday, March 23, 2026, 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM, Owens Memorial Chapel Funeral Home 

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DUBACH, La. — Following Tiffany Young’s move to Cypress Springs earlier this week, Lincoln Parish School Board Superintendent Ricky Durrett announced Friday that I.A. Lewis Assistant Principal and former Ruston Elementary Principal Mandy Brown has been name the new Dubach Principal effective June 1, 2026.

“I think Mandy’s the perfect fit for Dubach School moving forward,” Durrett said. “She’s got great experience being a previous principal. She’s did an outstanding job at Ruston Elementary and she was a terrific testing coordinator for us at I.A. Lewis. She’ll continue what Principal Young had done and move Dubach School forward.”

Brown expressed her gratitude to the school district and her excitement for her new role at Dubach School in a message to the Lincoln Parish Journal.

“I’m incredibly thankful for every opportunity I’ve been given along the way, because each one has been different and each one has shaped me into the educator and leader I am today,” Brown said. “I’m excited to step into a new school community and serve in a different leadership role. I will continue the good work that Mrs. Young started by continuing to support students and teachers, and make a positive impact in the Dubach community. I love Lincoln Parish because of its strong sense of community and Dubach has just that. I am excited to become a part of that community!

“We have had an amazing year at I.A. Lewis. Working with (Principal) Wendell Crowe and (Assistant Principal) Brooke Hoefler has definitely been a highlight of my career. I have learned so much from them that I will take with me to Dubach.”

During Brown’s tenure as principal, Ruston Elementary received a “B” rating in the 2023 School Performance Scores.

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by Hanna Singh

A talented middle school student from A.E. Phillips has advanced to state in the  Louisiana Student of the Year competition. 8^th grader Kaejha Stewart will represent her school and community as one of eight students in her category at the state competition.

After being named middle school student of the year at A.E. Phillips, Stewart advanced through the parish and regional competitions. She is now titled as the Region 8 middle school student of the year and will have the opportunity to compete for the state title. Stewart highlighted the support she received throughout the stages of the competition.

“What an experience this has been. I am so grateful that AE Phillips, Lincoln Parish Schools, and Region 5 gave me the opportunity to represent them as Student of the Year,” Stewart said. “I am glad that I was able to put in the work to make me get here. I am thankful to my mom for encouraging me everyday throughout this process and the village around me that helps in any capacity. Ruston is truly a beautiful place to live.”

In her community, Stewart is highly involved in the arts as well as community service opportunities. She has performed with the Ruston Community Theater, sang with the St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church and served with their youth group. She has pursued many extracurricular activities including soccer, track and field, piano, singing, poetry and dance.

Stewart’s mother, Grace Joseph, praised her daughters unwavering commitments to her endeavors and her values.

“I admire her work ethic and her dedication towards helping and looking out for people. She puts in a lot of work to do well and goes hard in everything she does,” Joseph said. “I also admire how empathetic she is. In our household we learn to treat people with kindness and respect no matter what their background may be and Kaejha loves learning more about people’s stories to help her understand them more.”

Not only is Stewart dedicated to her grades, but she has also shown her passion for leadership and success through many other endeavors in her school and community. Stewart serves as student council president, National Junior Honor Society president, FCA leader, Mathcounts team member and a member of the Science Olympiad Team.

A.E. Phillips principal, Jenny Blalock, emphasized Stewart’s determination and positive attitude.

“Kaejha has always had a spark about her. She strives to meet big goals and is very talented,” Blalock said. “I love to laugh with her about how she is always performing. Whether as the lead in our school play or on the sidewalk, trying to convince me to buy her a burger from the food truck, for example. She will do big things in life and I look forward to continuing to watch her grow and achieve.”

Stewart will go on to represent her school at the state competition as a shining example of talent and dedication from Lincoln Parish.

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Courtesy of Louisiana Tech University Communications

The Louisiana Art and Science Museum (LASM) will present Then, and Now, and Always: The Art of Nick Bustamante, an exhibition by Louisiana Tech University professor Nick Bustamante.

The exhibition will open with a free public reception on Saturday, March 21, from 4 to 6 p.m. in the Soupçon Gallery. The exhibition is sponsored by Tech’s College of Liberal Arts.

“Then, and Now, and Always is a body of work that explores ideas of family, home, loss, and legacy,” said Bustamante. “Created over the past two years specifically for this exhibition, the work was made possible in part through the continued support of my research by the College of Liberal Arts at Louisiana Tech University.”

The exhibition aligns with LASM’s mission to explore the intersections of art and science. As co-founder and director of the Visual Integration of Science Through Art (VISTA) Center at Louisiana Tech, Bustamante bridges creative practice and scientific inquiry. His work reinforces LASM’s commitment to interdisciplinary exploration and evidence-based wellness programming.

“Nick’s work thoughtfully connects art and science in ways that resonate deeply with our community,” said Tracey Barhorst, curator and director of art programs at LASM. “We were honored to collaborate with him in 2022 to bring Illustrating Health to LASM, and I am truly excited to work with him again. This exhibition reflects both his artistic vision and our shared commitment to the healing power of art.”

The March 21 opening reception is free and open to the public. Guests will have the opportunity to meet the artist and celebrate the exhibition in LASM’s Soupçon Gallery.

Then, and Now, and Always will be on view through Sunday, July 19. For more information, visit lasm.org.

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The National Weather Service issued an alert Thursday noting “elevated fire weather conditions” exist for parts of north and central Louisiana, including Lincoln Parish and surrounding parishes.

The alert follows a wildfire in Winn Parish that consumed about 1,500 acres, endangering about 250 homes. No homes were lost in the fire due to the work of the Louisiana Department of Agriculture & Forestry, Winn Parish Fire Department, and other area fire agencies.

“Due to ongoing dry fuels in place, weather conditions will be favorable for wildfire growth,” the NWS’s Shreveport office announced. The NWS explained that low humidity levels coupled with gusty winds and critically dry conditions support the spread of wildfires.

While the alert pertained only to Thursday, dry conditions are expected to continue in Lincoln Parish until next week. NWS has forecast no rain in the area for at least the next five days.

The Lincoln Parish Fire Protection District has issued an emergency order banning all open-air outdoor burning effective immediately. This ban coincides with a Police Jury ordinance. Violations of the ordinance are  punishable by a fine not to exceed $500 dollars, together with all costs of court, or a jail sentence not to exceed six months, or both.

The ban will remain in effect until lifted by the commissioners of the fire district.

“Outdoor burning and activities that involve open sparks or flames are discouraged,” NWS warned. “Please report all wildfires to local law enforcement as soon as possible.”

A map of parishes under burn bans is available on the Louisiana Department of Agriculture & Forestry website.

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A Farmerville man was arrested near Ruston last week after a state trooper learned the man was wanted in Texas.

Ronnie E. Grigsby, Jr., 38, was stopped for operating a vehicle with no inspection sticker on La. Highway 33 north of Ruston on March 14. A records check showed Grigsby, the registered owner of the vehicle, was wanted in Denton County, Texas, for drug possession.

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Grigsby was arrested after the warrant was confirmed. Denton County authorities indicated they intend to extradite Grigsby back to Texas. He is being held at the Lincoln Parish Detention Center pending those proceedings.

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

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

A Ruston man was arrested Monday by Louisiana State Police after he was stopped for a seatbelt violation and was determined to be wanted on drug charges.

Derek D’Angelo Braggs, 29, was stopped on East Mississippi Avenue on March 16 by a state trooper who noticed Braggs was not wearing a seatbelt.

During the course of the traffic stop, a record check revealed Braggs was wanted on outstanding warrants for distribution of crack cocaine and violation of the controlled substances law establishing drug-free zones.

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Braggs was arrested on the warrants held by the Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s Office and booked at the parish detention center.

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

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.