By T. Scott Boatright

 

The Lincoln Preparatory School boys basketball team made a list of five goals to accomplish before the 2025-26 season started.

So far, the Panthers have reached four of them, but the biggest and most elusive so far still lies ahead.

The Panthers roared past Ouachita Christian 59-40 at home Friday night to earn a fifth straight trip to March Madness and a semifinal berth in the Division IV Select School Playoffs.

Now the Panthers turn their focus toward something they’ve never accomplished under the moniker of Lincoln Prep — capture a state championship.

“By the grace of God, we’ve been able to do that,” Panthers coach Antonio Hudson said of earning a fifth straight trip to the championship tournament in Lake Charles. “Now we just have to figure out how to finish it.”

The first half went the way most of Lincoln Prep’s games have gone this season — defensive domination by the Panthers, who led 8-7 at the end of the opening stanza and 22-11 at halftime.

And the Panthers hit the first basket of the third quarter 45 seconds in on a putback by Devin Shine, who scored all six of his points in that stanza.

But the Eagles pulled within striking distance at nine points down at 26-17 at the 5:20 mark of the period on a baseline layup by D’sian Bradshaw, who hit a short jumper at the buzzer to make a 13-point game at 39-26 in Lincoln Prep’s favor heading into the fourth quarter.

“That’s our best deal — our best style of game,” Hudson said of the defensive start his team got off to. “We’ve played some really good teams, but I think OCS is one of the best defensive teams that we’ve played. In the half-court set it’s hard for people to get locked in, and we did that in the first half.

“Toward the end of the third quarter I think we got kind of lax because we got comfortable with the lead. We gave up more layups than anything in the third quarter, and that’s unacceptable. That’s not the way to win a championship. But we’re going back down to (Marsh Madness) again, and that’s a good thing.”

The Eagles remained within striking distance for the first four minutes of the final stanza, cutting it to 11-point lead for Lincoln Prep on one of two technical foul free throws when the Panthers were hit with a tech for taunting with 4:17 remaining.

But before any more time ran off, the Eagles were hit with a technical foul of their own, with Lincoln Prep’s Jabari Levingston hitting one-of-two of his free throws to push the Panthers’ lead back to 12 at 46-34.

The game also started with a technical foul before the opening jump that OCS hit one of two free throws on to take a 1-0 lead before the clock started.

“We’ve been running out the same way all year, but they said we couldn’t run out under their goal,” Hudson said. “I never heard of that, but you know, they know more than we do.”

After the fourth quarter technical fouls exchange, the Panthers then went on a 9-0 run to pull away for good with their biggest lead coming at 21 points with 1:14 remaining on an Alley Opp pass from Trey Spann to Zion Hicks, who caught the ball under the net and bounced it smoothly off the backboard for the score.

Levingston and Hicks both double-doubled for Lincoln Prep, with Levingston chalking up 22 points, 13 rebounds, eight steals, six assists and a blocked shot while Hicks recorded 21 points, 14 boards, three assists, two steals and two blocked shots.

Hudson declined to take part in the net-cutting ceremony, letting senior Kaden Vernon completely remove it from the rim.

The win was especially meaningful for the Panthers’ three seniors — Trey Spann, who totaled six points, five assists, one rebound and one steal — along with Hicks and Vernon.

“I want to win the championship for the players who played in front of me who didn’t get this chance I’m going to get, and for all the people who have supported us,” Hicks said.

In a postgame locker room talk, Panthers assistant coach Yum D. Pujoe told the team they had now accomplished four of those preseason goals, with one remaining.

“The first was to win or 25 or more games (the Panthers are 28-0), No. 2 was to win district, No. 3 was to go undefeated at home (where Lincoln Prep went 15-0) the fourth was to finish the season at No. 1 (which the Panthers have been since season’s start),” Pujoe said. “Now we only have one goal left — win the state championship.”

After the game, Hudson said the Panthers’ final goal is the only one that matters.

“We gotta get it,” Hudson said. “It’s for the community, too. In some ways, it’s selfish of us, but it’s for the team, because we’ve got to prove that we can get it done. We’ve been down there so many times and have come back empty handed. We’ve got to make it happen. I want to cut the net down in Lake Charles. That’s why I didn’t want to do it tonight. I want to do it down there.”

Top-seeded Lincoln Prep will take on fourth seed Central Catholic Tuesday, March 10, at 1 p.m.

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By Kyle Roberts

RUSTON, La. — What a third quarter it was Friday night for No. 2 Ruston.

Between an explosive offense and a filthy defense, the Bearcats outscored the No. 23 Parkway Panthers 30-7 in third quarter alone to help propel Ruston to a  68-30 win and a trip to its third state tournament appearance in four years.

“I think in the first half we were playing uptight and trying not to make mistakes,” Ruston High Head Coach Marcus Jackson said. “In the third quarter, we got going. We had defense that led to offense, and that’s what allowed us to win. We preach that defense wins championships — if we’ve got a chance to win it, we have to play defense first.”

Ruston found itself down toward the end of the first quarter 10-6 after being held scoreless for nearly six minutes before sophomore Darren Ford hit his first of three-straight three-pointers — first at the end the first period and then two more in a row to start the second to put the Bearcats up 15-11 with 5:44 to go in the first half.

After a pair of Ford free throws, junior Ahmad Hudson then scored six of Ruston’s nine points for the remainder of the quarter to help put Ruston up 26-18 at halftime.

In the third quarter, it was junior Keshun Malcolm’s turn to take over after he scored nine of Ruston’s for 12 points of the period to put Ruston up 38-20 with 3:35 to go in the period. Two back-to-back dunks right after by Ford sent the crowd into a frenzy and forced Parkway to take a timeout with 3:00 to go in the third, where the Bearcats would go on to lead 56-25 going into the fourth.

And after a Malcolm bucket and a Hudson dunk, the clock ran for the rest of the game en route to the Ruston victory.

Ford finished the night with 26 points, while Hudson and Malcolm had 15 and 13, respectively, in front of a raucous crowd.

“All three of those guys have unique talents,” Jackson said. “If we play off each other and not try to play against one another, that opens up the flow of the game. It was obviously a playoff atmosphere, for sure. Ruston has a great crowd and a great community.”

For Jackson, taking the Bearcats back to the state tournament feels pretty sweet after some personal difficulties from last year.

“Where I was last year being hurt and then burying my mother, this is just overwhelming,” an emotional Jackson said. “I’m just so proud of the guys. They’re buying in. They didn’t know me coming into (last) season. I thought the Oregon trip helped us, a lot of church trips, eating together — that all helped us get to this moment. I’m proud of Ruston High’s administrators and teachers — they supported me this whole while, and I’m just thankful and grateful for it.”

The Bearcats will face No. 6 Central – B.R. in the semifinals in the LHSAA State Tournament in Lake Charles, La., on Thursday, March 7 at 8 p.m.

by Hanna Singh

JPMorgan Chase celebrated the opening of the new Ruston Operations Center with a ribbon-cutting ceremony this Thursday, recognizing the company’s expansion into the area and a large investment in local workforce development.

During the event, the company presented a $20,000 grant to the Lincoln Parish School Board to support the district’s Summer Jumpstart Program, highlighting a commitment to growing educational opportunities Lincoln Parish and Northeast Louisiana.

The grant, presented to LPSB Superintendent Ricky Durrett, will be used to purchase tools and equipment for the parish’s welding program. By helping expand the program, the funding will give more students access to hands-on training in a valuable trade, preparing them for career opportunities and helping meet the growing demand for skilled workers in the local workforce.

Durrett emphasized the partnership will benefit the school system and provide more opportunities for Lincoln Parish students.

“I think it’s a great opportunity for us to partner with Chase. We’re always looking for more opportunities to give kids more training during the Summer JumpStart program,” Durrett said. “This grant will provide some equipment for the student’s testing to get some credentials that will prepare them to leave high school with opportunities to work in certain fields. Welding is one of the things we are really pushing with this grant. It’s a great opportunity to help our kids out and keep pushing the district forward.”

While investing in the success and growth of Northeast Louisiana, Chase has made an effort to also invest in the talent and skills of the next generation. Through the grant, the organization hopes to provide students with the tools and confidence to find jobs and build successful careers in the Lincoln Parish area.

Tania Hilburn, Managing Director and Site Lead for Chase Home Lending in Monroe and Ruston, explained the intention behind the partnership grant and how it will benefit the workforce.

“The grant will continue to develop of our local workforce for jobs that are in demand in our region,” Hilburn said. “Welding is a trade that is in demand and with a strong salary.

“As someone who calls North Louisiana home, it’s wonderful to open our doors in Ruston and see Chase deepen its roots here. Our growth goes hand-in-hand with Ruston’s growth. Chase’s new center gives us the room to expand our operations, create new career opportunities and continue building on the strong foundation we’ve established in the North Louisiana community.”

With the intention of developing the Northeast Louisiana and Lincoln Parish community and workforce, Chase is working to provide more career opportunities for the youth of tomorrow. By supporting the Summer Jumpstart program, the grant will expand educational opportunities for students hoping to enter the workforce post-graduation.

The Lincoln Parish JumpStart program offers a variety of trade pathways for students to earn industry-based credentials and gain work experience during high school. The program includes courses in areas such as welding, carpentry, principles of business and more.

Sean Grzebin, Chief Executive Officer of Chase Home Lending, highlighted why Chase chose to make the investment into the educational program.

“The JumpStart program helps students prepare for real world careers by providing hands-on training and career readiness opportunities, including skill-based programs like welding” Grzebin said. “Workforce development does not begin at hiring; it begins in the classroom. When education is prioritized, students gain exposure to practical skills and career pathways because of it. Programs like this reduce barriers to opportunity and give students access to instruction and experience that can lead directly to employment.”

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By T. Scott Boatright

 

The excitement Mayor Alvin Bradley felt was almost palpable Thursday night as he looked toward the future for the city of Grambling and Lincoln Parish as a whole.

That came after Grambling’s City Council authorized Bradley to work with the City of Ruston as to the particulars of obtaining funding to build a service road that would run from the Buc-ee’s on Tarbutton Road in Ruston to Sandbed Road in Grambling.

Sandbed Road connects with Garr Road, which runs from Ruston to RWE Jones Drive in Grambling.

“(Ruston) Mayor Ronny Walker has agreed to work with us to solicit the funds for the road,” Bradley said. 

That would be Phase 3 of the ongoing Buc-ee’s project.

Phase 1 transforms the Tarbutton Road interchange from three to five lanes and constructing the initial service road leading to the Buc-ee’s property. Phase 2 involves plans to construct a two-way frontage road extending from the Buc-ee’s property westward toward the city of Grambling, focusing on expanding infrastructure for the 74,000-square-foot travel center which hopes to open in early 2027.

And Phase 3 involves extending that two-way frontage road all the way into the city of Grambling.

“Grambling’s portion of Phase 3 has been estimated at $12 million,” Bradley said. “Our Phase 3 portion of the service road would run from Dunn Road (Parish Road 111) to Sandbed Road.”

Bradley said plans for the path of the service road have not been finalized so he doesn’t know what properties might be affected. He is still working on that with engineering consultants.

He said he hopes work might begin by late this year or early 2027 and that it would likely take a year to a year-and-a-half before getting a complete service completed from Tarbutton Road to Grambling.

“First we have to get funding, and then have the engineers draw up plans and get those plans accepted (by the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development),” Bradley said. “That will include meeting with landowners and figuring out rights of way and things like that.”

Bradley hopes for Grambling to get a 50% share of property taxes from businesses that would be constructed along the service road as well as sales taxes after such businesses are operational after expenses for the project are paid.

“Water and sewer for plumbing for the businesses would be some of those expenses for the project,” Bradley said. “So, tonight just begins the preliminary stage of what will be a long process.”

It’s a process that has great potential for the city of Grambling and Lincoln Parish as a whole.

Once completed, that service road could attract businesses such as big box stores like Costco or Target, restaurants and even the long-time dream of bringing at least one hotel inside Grambling city limits.

“The potential sales taxes. jobs for our citizens and economic development would mean so much to the city of Grambling,” Bradley said. “Getting hotels here in the city of Grambling is the shot in the arm we need, and I think that service road would be the catalyst for getting that done.

“I’m excited about it. Mayor Walker has been very helpful in this process. After all, he has a whole lot more experience in this than I do. He said he wants to help us get whatever we need for this to be successful for us. I think that what it is that if this road is successful, both entities (the cities of Ruston and Grambling) would enjoy it. It’s not only going to be Grambling that would benefit from this. Both entities will have the opportunity for economic development.”

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by Wesley Harris

A 4.9-magnitude earthquake briefly rocked portions of northwest Louisiana about 5:30 Thursday morning but apparently caused no damage.

Several Lincoln Parish residents felt the tremors, including in Simsboro, Dubach and Ruston.

According to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), three earthquakes occurred Thursday morning just northwest of the small town of Edgefield north of Coushatta.

In addition to the 4.9-earthquake, a magnitude 2.9 occurred 3.7 miles north-northwest of Edgefield and a magnitude 2.2-quake was located 6.8 miles west-northwest of the town.

Initially, the USGS rated the 4.9 magnitude quake at 4.4 Thursday morning but upgraded it later in the day after further analysis. The center of the quake was about three miles underground.

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The USGS has recorded over 1,000 people reporting feeling tremors within a 75 to 90-mile radius of the 4.9-earthquake Thursday morning in northwest Louisiana and east Texas.

The agency’s records show Thursday’s event is the largest inland earthquake on record in Louisiana. This quake breaks the record of a 4.1 quake recorded near Donaldsonville in 1930.

An offshore quake measuring 5.3 magnitude occurred about 98 miles out from Grand Isle in the Gulf in 2006.

An earthquake in the area last week occurred on February 24 about 3.7 miles west of Coushatta. The magnitude 2.9-quake was measured at a depth of about three miles and caused no damage.

According to Red River Sheriff’s Office spokesman Captain J. Moseley, this is not the first time earthquakes have been reported in the parish.

“Over the past several years our area has experienced several small earthquakes,” Moseley said. “While most have been minor, an event like this is a reminder an earthquake can strike at any moment.”

“Right now, the most important thing is for everyone should to remain calm,” Moseley said. “Situations like this can be unsettling.”

The Sheriff’s Office noted none of Thursday’s tremors caused any reported damage.

The USGS predicts a 31% chance of an aftershock in the Coushatta area over the next week.

Minor earthquakes are nothing new to Louisiana, with occurrences documented back to the early 1800s but usually with no damage with tremors lasting just a few seconds.

Some historians believe a 1811 earthquake played a role in creating Lake Bistineau.

More information on recent earthquakes in the United States and around the world can be found at earthquake.usgs.gov.

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 Judith Roberts

Eleven first- and second-grade students at Glen View Elementary are ready for Shark Tank. 

Students presented their business plans to local community leaders and business leaders in an entrepreneurial challenge and included ideas of a keychain and lemonade store, a softball camp, a place for pet birds to play, and more. 

“The students committed to do this in August,” said Alisa Greene, computer lab proctor who helped the students with their projects. “They’ve done an amazing job. They have learned beyond what was taught. I believe every child here, if they had to conduct a business meeting, could easily walk up here and do it without hesitation.” 

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Jordan Blachier, Glen View’s principal, said this was the second time this event had been held at the school.  

“This gives the students an opportunity to get up and present in front of a group of people and build confidence,” he said. “They’ve all done a great job.” 

Students created their presentations on PowerPoint and included their business name, idea, marketing strategy, logo and start-up costs. Even in business collaborations, the students were judged individually on their presentations.

Julianne McGaha, a second grader, won first place for her business idea of Pet Portraits, where pet owners could get a watercolor portrait of their pet – and a cookie, too.  

“My parents helped me decide, because I wanted to do something like a pet store,” McGaha said. “This makes portraits of pets. That’s what makes my idea special.” 

Second grader Eleanor Foster won second place for her idea of Artastic Singing, a place that merged arts and music, and Ngoc Nguyen, who collaborated with Foster on Artastic Singing, received third place. 

The winners all received a tablet donated by Junior League of Monroe. All participants received a goody bag though with donations from friends and supporters.

Other participants and their business proposals were: 

• Lillian Davidson with Davidson’s Pet Store 

• Callie Hoefler and Lydia Robertson collaborating with Callie and Lydia’s Keychains and Lemonade 

• Annalee Hilton with Annalee’s Softball Camp 

• Dominique Gipson with Birds Play 

• Qash Ali with Art Factory 

• Van Funderburg with Funderburg Zoo 

• Emberlynn Bowen with Better Pets 

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

 

Cedar Creek coach Katie Hall and Choudrant senior Reese Brown highlight the 2026 all-Lincoln Parish Journal Girls Basketball Team.

The nine-member squad earned the postseason honors after a stellar year of girls high school basketball in the parish in which four of the five teams made postseason play.

Hall guided the Lady Cougars to a 22-9 record and the program’s second straight trip to the Select School Division IV state semifinals where they fell Wednesday to Southern Lab. The Lady Cougars managed the feat despite losing starting point guard Taylor Martinez to a season-ending injury in November. 

This marks the third straight year that Hall has earned the Coach of the Year award.

Brown averaged 14.1 points, 5.4 rebounds, 4.2 steals and 3.0 assists per game for Choudrant High School and eclipsed the 1,200 career point mark in her final season in an Aggies uniform. The guard helped lead Choudrant to the District 1B title and a 24-8 record as the Aggies earned the No. 8 seed in the Class B playoffs. 

“Reese was the captain of our ship,” said Choudrant head coach Brandy Roberson. “If she played well, we played well. She was a great leader and role model. She demonstrated hard work daily and took full responsibility of her mistakes.

“She had a natural ability to score the ball. This year she figured out how to assist others in scoring and really bought into defense. She became a triple threat on the floor.”

Brown became the first Lady Aggie to earn the all-LPJ team MVP award. 

“I’m very thankful for the opportunity to have coached her,” said Roberson. “The experience in watching her reach her potential as well as growing and maturing each year through this program was truly rewarding as a coach. She will be very hard to replace as a player and a captain. We are thankful she wore blue and gold and set high standards for our younger players in the Lady Aggie program.”

Brown was joined on the all-LPJ team by teammate Sadie Jones (Choudrant) along with Journi Douglas (Ruston), Kayla Ferguson (Lincoln Prep), Bailee Harrison (Ruston), Mary Grace Hawkins (Cedar Creek), Caroline James (Cedar Creek), Madi Mitchell (Simsboro), and Avery Ryan (Cedar Creek). 

 

2026 All-LPJ Team

Reese Brown (Choudrant) – Senior

Journi Douglas (Ruston) – Senior

Kayla Ferguson (Lincoln Prep) – Junior

Bailee Harrison (Ruston) – Junior

Mary Grace Hawkins (Cedar Creek) – Junior

Caroline James (Cedar Creek) – Senior

Sadie Jones (Choudrant) – Senior

Madi Mitchell (Simsboro) – Seventh Grade

Avery Ryan (Cedar Creek) – Senior

Coach of the Year: Katie Hall (Cedar Creek)

Player of the Year: Reese Brown (Choudrant)

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A man stopped and arrested on outstanding warrants was additionally charged with drug offenses after suspected methamphetamine was found on him at the Lincoln Parish Detention Center.

Zachary Fisher, 36, of Ruston, was stopped Sunday afternoon when Lincoln Parish deputies saw his gray Mazda traveling south on U.S. 167 and recognized it as Fisher’s vehicle. The deputies knew Fisher was wanted by the Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s Office for simple burglary.

Fisher was arrested, and the deputies learned he was also wanted on a warrant for a distribution of methamphetamine held by the Lincoln Parish Narcotics Enforcement Team.

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Fisher was taken to the detention center and searched in more detail. A glass smoking pipe used to consume narcotics was found in the crease of his leg under his clothes. The pipe contained a crystal-like substance believed to be methamphetamine.

Fisher was booked on the warrants for simple burglary and distribution of methamphetamine, as well as possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, and introduction of contraband into a penal facility.

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.

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Rather than trying to get Washoe and the others to speak verbally, the Gardners stopped using verbal communication around them altogether.  When in their presence, Allen and Beatrix communicated with each other using American Sign Language (ASL).  The Gardners feared that trying to communicate with them verbally and with sign language simultaneously would be confusing.  The Gardners hoped the youngsters would learn by watching them communicate with each other.  Washoe was especially interested.  They used the proper sign language to each other when Washoe was eating, bathing, and while she was being dressed.  They invented exciting games; introduced new toys, books, and magazines; all of which were designed to stimulate sign language.  They made scrapbooks of Washoe’s favorite pictures and used the proper sign language for whatever was shown in the photos.  Dinner time began with Allen and Beatrix shaping their dominant hands into a flattened “O” with the fingertips touching the thumb then tapping the fingertips to their lips once or twice.  In American Sign Language, this is the sign for “food” or “to eat.”  Then one day at dinner time, long after doctors and other experts had given up hope that she would ever be able to communicate, Washoe told Allen and Beatrix that she was hungry by signing the word “food.”  The Gardners were overjoyed.  Within a short time, Washoe could tell the Gardners that she was thirsty and that she wanted to play with her toys by using sign language.  She quickly learned the sign for “more” to let the Gardners know she was still hungry, still thirsty, or that she wanted more toys.  Her vocabulary continued to grow.  Then she began to learn to answer questions such as “Who is that?” and “What do you want?” 

As her vocabulary grew, the Gardners noticed something extraordinary.  Washoe began teaching the other youngsters the sign language she knew, and they were signing back correctly.  With the help of the Gardners, Washoe and the others learned a sign language vocabulary of hundreds of words and expressions.  Washoe became the first of her kind to learn a human language and teach it to another primate.  Washoe and the others were all chimpanzees.

Sources:

1.      “Friends of Washoe,” accessed February 22, 2026, https://www.friendsofwashoe.org/learn/chci_history/project_washoe_begins.html.

2.     “Meet Tatu and Loulis—the last of the ‘talking’ chimpanzees,” National Geographic, accessed February 22, 2026, https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/article/chimpanzee-sign-language-experiments.

3.     “FOXP2 gene,” MedlinePlus.com, accessed February 22, 2026, https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/gene/foxp2/.

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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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. 

Friday, March 6
1 p.m.: Grambling State softball
7 p.m.: Ruston Community Theatre presents “The Stinky Cheese Man”

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Saturday, March 7
8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.: Find Your Voice: Empowering Women through Song (Presbyterian Church of Ruston Fellowship Hall)
9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Farmers Market
10 a.m. to 2 p.m.: Third annual Geektogether  (Lincoln Parish Library and LPL Events Center)
Noon: Grambling State softball
2 p.m.: Grambling State softball
7 p.m.: Ruston Community Theatre presents “The Stinky Cheese Man”

Sunday, March 8
2 p.m.: Ruston Community Theatre presents “The Stinky Cheese Man”

Monday March 9
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 10
10 a.m.: Storytime (Lincoln Parish Library)
1 p.m.: Grambling State softball
4 p.m.: Crafternoon (Lincoln Parish Library)
6 p.m.: Video-led exercise class (Lincoln Parish Library)
6 p.m.: LA Tech softball
6 p.m.: LA Tech baseball
7 p.m.: Lincoln Parish Police Jury meeting (Lincoln Courthouse)

Wednesday, March 11
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)
4 p.m.: LA Tech softball
6 p.m.: GSU baseball

Thursday, March 12
9:30 a.m.: Piney Hills Quilt Guild meeting (Grace Methodist Church)
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.: Teen and Tween Time (Lincoln Parish Library)

Friday, March 13
6-9 p.m.: Beer Crawl (Downtown Ruston)
6 p.m.: LA Tech baseball
6 p.m.: LA Tech softball

Saturday, March 14
8 a.m. to noon: Friends of the Library Community Garage Sale (Lincoln Parish Library Events Center)
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
10 a.m. to noon: Pictures with the Easter Bunny (Lincoln Parish Library)
2 p.m.: LA Tech baseball
2 p.m.: LA Tech softball

Sunday, March 15
11 a.m.: LA Tech baseball
11 a.m.: LA Tech softball

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

At times Thursday night, it looked almost unfair.

Louisiana Tech hit 10 three-pointers as six players scored in double figures as the Lady Techsters rolled to an 88-47 win over New Mexico State Thursday night at the Thomas Assembly Center.

It marked the 16th straight victory for Tech, tying the longest league winning streak in Conference USA in the last 25 years.

Tech (23-5, 16-1) scored inside. Tech scored outside. 

And at times, Tech scored almost at will. 

“This is such an unselfish group all the way around,” said Tech head coach Brooke Stoehr. “That is why it is so fun to come to work with them every day. They do share it. The celebrate it each other. It’s so fun to watch.”

The fun started early for Tech as the Lady Techsters built a 21-15 lead after the first quarter and then put it into another gear in the second. Tech used a 17-2 run over the first six minutes of the frame to push the advantage out to 21 before eventually heading into the lockerroom up 42-28.

Any chance of a Aggies rally in the second half was snuffed early. The Lady Techsters outscored NMSU 19-12 in the third quarter as the lead grew to 61-40.

“It doesn’t matter who is out on the court for us, these kids are very unselfish,” said Stoehr. “It’s beautiful basketball.”

It was gorgeous in the final quarter. Tech outscored the Aggies 27-7 over the final 10 minutes to pick up a resounding victory on its home floor.

“We trust this group because they put in the work,” said Stoehr. “They show up every day with a focus.”

Jianna Morris led Tech with 19 points, including four more three-pointers, while Alexis Weaver added 15 points, Averi Aaron 13 points, Jordan Marshall 12 points, Paris Bradley 11 points, nine rebounds, 5 steals, and Joy Madison-Key 10 points.

Imani Warren led New Mexico State with 12 points.

Tech hosts UTEP Saturday at 6 p.m. on Senior Night. A postgame celebration will also take place for the Conference USA regular season title. 

 

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Courtesy of LA Tech Athletic Communications

A career night from AJ Bates powered Louisiana Tech to one of its biggest wins of the season on Thursday night as the Bulldogs upset first-place Liberty, 76-71, inside Liberty Arena.

“We shot 52 percent from the field in this game and 100 percent from the free throw line even though we did not shoot many,” said Tech head coach Talvin Hester. “Those little things help when you are on the road. I am proud of the team. We played to our capability tonight. Now it is time to lock in on the next opponent.”

Bates delivered a spectacular performance, pouring in a career-high 34 points on 13-of-23 shooting, including 6-of-11 from three-point range, while adding four rebounds, four assists, and three steals in a full 40-minute effort.

“You never see a game like that coming,” said Hester on Bates performance. “It is just one of those things where a play has it going. You must let him go with it. I was on him, making sure he was still managing the floor. He only had one turnover. It was a special night.”

LA Tech (17-13, 10-9 CUSA) never trailed in the contest and controlled the pace from the opening minutes, silencing the home crowd against a Liberty (24-6, 16-3 CUSA) team that entered the night having won the outright regular season title and had only one home loss.

The Bulldogs jumped out early thanks to Bates, who caught fire in the first half. The sophomore guard scored 22 points before halftime, helping LA Tech build a 45-40 lead at the break despite Liberty making 10 of its 17 three-point attempts in the opening period.

The Flames continued to apply pressure in the second half behind Brett Decker Jr., who finished with 30 points, but the Bulldogs responded with timely baskets and strong rebounding to maintain control.

LA Tech’s largest lead reached 11 points early in the second half (51-40), and the Bulldogs held the advantage for over 37 minutes of game time.

Several Bulldogs provided key support behind Bates. Jaylen Fenner recorded 11 points and a team-high eight rebounds. DJ Dudley added nine points and three assists despite missing much of the game due to injury. Avery Thomas II contributed 12 points and seven rebounds. And Kaden Cooper chipped in four points, six rebounds, and three assists.

LA Tech was highly efficient offensively, shooting 52.5 percent from the field while committing just eight turnovers. The Bulldogs also dominated the glass 36-26 and outscored Liberty 32-14 in the paint.

Liberty tied the game up at 65-65 with 7:07 to go, but the Bulldogs limited the Flames to just two made field goals the rest of the way while outscoring them 11-6, getting seven of those from Fenner. 

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Courtesy of GSU Athletic Communications

Jamil Muttilib poured in a game-high 27 points and Grambling State erased a nine-point halftime deficit to defeat Alabama State, 65-63, on Wednesday night at the Dunn-Oliver Acadome.

Grambling State (14-18 overall, 8-11 SWAC) used a strong second-half surge and clutch free-throw shooting down the stretch to complete the comeback after trailing 36-27 at the break.

Muttilib led the Tigers with 27 points on 9-of-20 shooting, including 7-of-7 from the free-throw line, while adding five rebounds and two steals in 39 minutes. Roderick Coffee III provided a strong all-around effort with 18 points, seven rebounds and three assists, going 8-of-10 at the free-throw line.

Despite struggling from beyond the arc, shooting just 5-of-30 from three-point range, GSU found ways to generate offense in the paint and at the free-throw line. The Tigers scored 34 points in the paint and converted 16-of-19 free throws, including 13-of-15 in the second half.

Alabama State (10-22, 7-12 SWAC) built its halftime lead behind efficient shooting in the opening period, hitting 13-of-31 from the field and five three-pointers. The Hornets extended their advantage to as many as nine points late in the first half before taking the 36-27 lead into the locker room.

Grambling State began chipping away early in the second half as Muttilib knocked down a three-pointer and Coffee followed with a basket inside to trim the deficit. The Tigers continued to apply pressure defensively and slowly closed the gap, using a combination of free throws and second-chance opportunities to stay within striking distance.

Coffee’s three-pointer midway through the second half helped pull GSU within five, and the Tigers continued to battle as the game featured 10 ties and 10 lead changes.

Grambling State’s defense tightened late, holding Alabama State to just 9-of-28 shooting in the second half and limiting the Hornets to one three-pointer after halftime.

Mekhi Fitts added four points and a team-high seven rebounds off the bench for the Tigers, while Devyn Franklin contributed five points and four rebounds. Derrius Ward chipped in five rebounds and five assists.

Alabama State was led by Micah Simpson with 15 points, while Jerquarius Stanback added 11 points and nine rebounds. Tyler Byrd recorded eight points and a game-high 10 rebounds.

Grambling State finished the game shooting 34.9 percent (22-of-63) from the field and outrebounded Alabama State 39-43. The Tigers also forced 14 turnovers and converted them into 15 points.

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William Clinton “Clint” Scott 
June 26, 1941  –  March 3, 2026 
Visitation: Friday, March 6, 2026, 12:30PM – 2:00PM, Temple Baptist Church Chapel, 1515 South Service Rd West, Ruston 
Service: Friday, March 6, 2026, 2:00PM, Temple Baptist Church Chapel, 1515 South Service Rd West, Ruston 

Dorothy Ann McBee 
September 10, 1933 – March 3, 2026 
Graveside service: Friday, March 6, 2026, 2:00 PM, New Hope Cemetery, 292 New Hope Road, Choudrant 

Rachel Boersma  
August 23, 1965  –  March 1, 2026  
Service: Friday, March 6, 2026, 10:00AM, Temple Baptist Church Chapel, 1515 South Service Rd West, Ruston  
Final Resting Place: Kilpatrick’s Memorial Gardens, 1270 Highway 544, Ruston 

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by Malcolm Butler

The Board of Supervisors for the University of Louisiana System (ULS) filed a lawsuit late Wednesday on behalf of Louisiana Tech University against Conference USA.

The 102-page docket was file with the Third Judicial District Court in Lincoln Parish as a “petition for temporary, preliminary, and permanent injunctive relief and declaratory relief.”

The 102 pages include a 33-page lawsuit and 69 pages of exhibits (see both attached below).

Louisiana Tech sent out an official statement today about the decision to file the lawsuit.

“Today, Louisiana Tech took a necessary step in the best interest of its student athletes. When we joined Conference USA in 2013, its membership was different, its scheduling was different, and the landscape of college athletics was very different. Seven months ago, we notified CUSA of our intent to exit in July 2026. We have worked in good faith toward an amicable separation within conference bylaws. The proposed 2026 football schedule drafted by CUSA left us no choice but to pursue this remedy.

“Our move to the Sun Belt enhances the experience of our student athletes, renews regional rivalries, and significantly benefits the Louisiana economy. Additionally CUSA has previously acknowledged the difficulty of crafting an 11-team schedule if we were to remain next year. We have tried to offer a fair financial resolution to this dispute and are hopeful that we can resolve it without resorting to prolonged litigation.”

The Lincoln Parish Journal has reached out to Conference USA for a response.

When Louisiana Tech accepted the Sun Belt Conference’s invitation on July 14, 2025, the University notified Conference USA that it would make the move on July 1, 2026 (see Exhibit 1). However, Conference USA corresponded three days later (July 17, 2025), attempting to change the effective date of departure, citing certain provisions of CUSA bylaws (see Exhibit 2).

The two sides met in Dallas on July 29, 2025, where Tech officials notified league officials of its decision to leave the conference, citing “the substantial and immediate travel hour savings to be achieved for its student athletes by moving to a regional conference.”

According to the lawsuit, Conference USA leadership invited Tech to “make an offer” financially.

Similar bylaws were in place when Old Dominion, Marshall, and Southern Miss announced their decision to leave Conference in late October of 2021, a move that was made on July 1, 2022. That separation wasn’t without consternation, including various legal wranglings that included court injunctions to delay arbitration.

According to the lawsuit, Tech declined to make an offer at the in-person meeting but agreed to provide a subsequent written offer.

“The Conference has accepted financial consideration for prior members who exited the Conference that provided significantly fewer days notice than Tech … With the Conference’s prior dealings of these former members, Tech had every reason to believe that good faith financial discussions would proceed.”

Tech provided a financial offer on August 1, 2025, as requested in the in-person meeting, again informing the league it would be departing on July 1, 2026. According to the lawsuit, Tech further expressed its desire to satisfy the financial obligations to conference pursuant to the exit (Exhibit 4).

On August 27, 2025, Conference USA responded to Tech with a counteroffer “which calculated with precision the financial consideration to which the Conference believes it is entitled. The counteroffer attempted a calculation using considerations and variables which have never been disclosed to Louisiana Tech as member institution of the conference (see Exhibit 6).”

One of the issues revolves around NCAA distributions that Conference USA is attempting to withhold as part of conference distributions.

Conference distributions include categories such as television revenue, NCAA basketball units, marketing and internet, championship revenue, bowls, and NCAA Academic Performance (value based revenue). 

However, NCAA-designated distributions are funds that are geared towards student athlete welfare. In the past, the NCAA sent these distributions directly to schools, but more recently, they have funneled the funds through league offices.

NCAA distributions include academic enhancement, sport sponsorships, grant-in-aid, student-athlete opportunity fund, and student athlete special assistance fund. These distributions are around $1 million per year for Tech.

The lawsuit states that “CUSA may not withhold NCAA-designated institutional distributions from Louisiana Tech University.” (see Exhibit 18)

While Louisiana Tech has continuously pointed to the departure of Marshall, Southern Miss, and Old Dominion and the shorter time frame for notification back in 2022, the lawsuits states “CUSA responded to Tech’s correspondence on October 9, 2025, acknowledging the early withdrawal of several other institutions, and attempting to state its irrelevance.

“CUSA reiterated its position that it was entitled to two (2) full years of withheld distributions as a condition of any early departure and stated it would consider dispute resolution only if Louisiana Tech agreed in advance to that financial entitlement.” (see Exhibit 8)

Tech responded on October 24 “declining to accept CUSA’s preconditions as a prerequisite to mediation, and renewed a request for mediation as originally proposed by Tech.”

The lawsuit outlines further correspondence between the two sides, including what it called a “final attempt at amicable resolution with CUSA” by Tech on February 13, 2026. In this correspondence, Tech reiterated the reasonableness of the offer previously provided and that it would not be playing any football games in 2026 as a member of CUSA as previously stated; that to include Tech on any schedule at this point is misleading and disingenuous of the parties’ course of dealing over the past several months.”

CUSA responded on February 20, 2026, to Tech’s letter from February 13, 2026. According to the lawsuit, the correspondence “contains several assertions and characterizations with which Tech disagrees, and states ‘the Board did not and cannot accept Louisiana Tech’s offer to withdraw early and has included Louisiana Tech on its 2026 schedule.'” (see Exhibit 14)

Tech joined Conference USA on July 1, 2013. At that time it was a 16-member league. However, after UTEP departs for the Mountain West Conference at the end of June and Louisiana Tech departs for the Sun Belt, only one of those 16 teams will still be a member of CUSA (Florida International University).

The move will bring Tech full circle after the University was a member of the Sun Belt Conference from 1991 through 2001, prior to departing for the Western Athletic Conference. 

It will also re-establish regional rivalries for Louisiana Tech, including yearly match-ups with ULM, UL-Lafayette, and Southern Miss. 

“Think of college athletics today and where it is, and it’s because of the fandom that has been created over the last 30 or 40 years,” said Tech AD/VP Ryan Ivey during the July 16, 2025, press conference where the University accepted the Sun Belt invitation. “A lot of that has to do with the regional rivalries or what I like to call, just good ol’ fashioned hate.

“(Hate) is okay on the (playing fields). We may love each other on Sundays, but on Saturday’s, we hate each other. That’s what makes college athletics great.”

The 13 current Sun Belt Conference schools include App State, Arkansas State, Coastal Carolina, Georgia Southern, Georgia State, James Madison, Louisiana-Lafayette, ULM, Marshall, Old Dominion, South Alabama, Southern Miss, and Troy.

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RUSTON, La. — Ruston High School Principal Dan Gressett announced Wednesday afternoon that he will be taking a job at the Lincoln Parish School Board effective at the end of the academic calendar for Ruston High .

”I’ve been at Ruston High for 24 years in some capacity or another, and the last eight as principal,” Gressett said. “Ruston High is in a really good place right now. I feel like I will leave it behind in a better place than I inherited it, and I inherited it in a really, really good position, too. My daughter’s still in school there — my wife still works there. It’s a great place to work and to send your kids. I’ve been blessed to have a really good faculty and staff from cafeteria ladies to custodians to assistant principals to teachers to counselors. I’ve been very blessed.

”I believe there are some other things I can do to help the district and (Lincoln Parish School Board Superintendent Ricky) Durrett feels the same way. It’ll be a bright future. Change isn’t always a bad thing.”

Gressett’s role at the school board is still to be determined.

”Dan’s done a terrific job at Ruston High School as principal,” Durrett said. “We appreciate everything that he’s done at the school by maintaining the A-status they have. It’s a great opportunity to bring him to the central office to make a bigger impact for our entire district — it’s something we’re looking forward to. He has a strong background in athletics, school discipline, he knows how schools should run, so I think he’ll be a valuable team member.”

Gressett was hired as principal in 2018 after then-principal Durrett left for the school board.

The school board will open the job for applications in the coming weeks, though no date had been set by Wednesday afternoon. The LPSB Superintendent will ultimately make the final hire after interviews.

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Celebration 2026 – Viva Las Vegas is set to light up March with high-energy bidding, unforgettable prizes, and a community coming together for one incredible cause. From March 18th–21st, Cedar Creek School’s annual online auction will deliver all the glitz and excitement of Vegas — no plane ticket required. This year’s event features a four-day silent auction followed by a thrilling virtual live auction on Friday, March 20th — plus a brand-new watch party experience at the Davison Athletics Complex for those who want to celebrate in style. And the best part? Every dollar raised goes directly towards the wonderful Faculty & Staff who make Cedar Creek amazing! 

The Silent Auction: March 18th–21st 

Our silent auction kicks off online on March 18th at 5 p.m. and runs through March 21st at 5 p.m., giving you plenty of time to browse and bid on an exciting variety of items. Generous donations from local businesses, artisans, and community members mean that there’s something for everyone! You’ll find a treasure trove of items including: 

• Luxury & Lifestyle Packages
  From gift cards and high-end technology to hunting gear, weekend retreats, and stunning artwork, there’s something for every taste and every budget. 
• Exclusive Cedar Creek Class Creations
  One-of-a-kind masterpieces crafted by our talented elementary students. These keepsakes are heartfelt, meaningful, and truly priceless. 
• Creek Experience Packages
  Unforgettable opportunities for younger students to connect with high school athletes, media students, and faculty. These interactive experiences create memories that last long after the final bid. 

Whether you’re bidding for fun, family, or for a little friendly competition, every click supports Cedar Creek’s mission and future. 

The Main Event: Virtual Live Auction – Friday, March 20^th  

When the clock strikes 7 p.m., the real excitement begins! This live-stream event is sure to be a good time for everyone as Cedar Creek’s very own Coach Jacob Angevine and Ms. Mandy Bush auction off our items. Some of the fantastic items up for grabs include: 

• Relaxing Getaways– Whether it be the beach or wine country, these trips are perfect for those looking to escape and unwind.  
• Gameday Experiences– Sports fans, these are for you! Get in on exclusive game day packages that include suite tickets to different collegiate/professional events, VIP experiences, and more. Whether you’re a football or baseball fan, these packages will get you closer to the action than ever before. 
• Live Music Package –The stockyards aren’t the only good thing about Ft. Worth. Live music tickets to the very popular Ella Langley will be up for grabs, so dust off your boots and hat, and get ready for a night you won’t forget! 

These are just a few of our fabulous live auction items. It’s fast-paced. It’s fun. It’s pure Vegas-style excitement — streamed straight to you from wherever you are! 

New This Year: The Viva Las Vegas Watch Party  

Want to be where the energy is electric? Join us at the Davison Athletics Complex on March 20th for an official Celebration Watch Party. The doors will open at 6 p.m. with the livestream auction beginning at 7 p.m.  

Gather your friends and dress in your Vegas best. It’s the perfect blend of community spirit and casino-night energy — all for a great cause. 

Prefer to tune in from home? You can bid from your couch, the ballpark, or anywhere across the country. However you join, you’re part of the action! 

How to Participate 

It’s easy to join in on the fun! Simply visit our online auction platform between March 18th and March 21st for the silent auction and be sure to tune in to the live-streamed event on March 20th at 7 p.m. to join in on the action. To purchase tickets to our watch-party, view and bid on items, as well as watch our livestream, visit https://creek26.cbo.io. 

We would like to thank all of our generous sponsors for their support of Celebration 2026 – Viva Las Vegas: Origin Bank, Southern States Equipment, Edward Jones Investments – Andy & Andrew Halbrook, Marbury Building Corporation, Cross Country Infrastructure, Crumbs Catering, PCI Electric, Wendy & Kenny Merchant, Petrohood Energy, Nicole & Brooks Harris, Rachel & Thomas Davison, King Risk Partners, Roni & Mike Haddox, Cindy & Bruce Hampton, Argent Financial Group, Jennifer & Chris Garriga, Trenton Dental Center, Smith Law Offices, Louisiana Orchard Realty, Susan & Brandon Ewing, Walpole Tire & Service, Johnston & Murphy Dental Care, Dr. and Mrs. John Maxwell, Louisiana National Bank, Katy & Andy Smith, Legacy Pediatrics, Law Office of W. Kyle Green, Wendy & Donald Newman, Carolyn & Chad Yates, Melissa & B Jay Durrett, and Kim & Stephen Taylor.  

Mark your calendars, gather your friends and family, and get ready to be a part of something special. Together, we can make the Celebration 2026 – Viva Las Vegas a winning hand for Cedar Creek School! 

This is an advertorial

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(NOTE: the Kool Kids public sale begins today and runs through Saturday at the Ruston Civic Center. Hours are 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. today and Friday, and 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday. FREE admission and children welcome.)

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When Memrie Lolley moved back to Ruston two decades ago, she brought with her an idea she had seen and participated in while living in Memphis.

Kool Kids.

Now all these years later, Memrie, daughter Morgan, and really the entire Lolley clan, are preparing for the 20^th anniversary of Kool Kids which will be March 4 through March 7.

“I used to go to these when I had young children when I lived in (Tennessee),” said Memrie. “Kool Kids is basically a seasonal children’s consignment sale that we hold twice a year. We have consignors where people bring in their items, they tag their own items, and then we organize all of the items to sell them for them.

“When we moved back (to Ruston) there wasn’t anything like this around. I thought Ruston needed this. It’s really a great service to our community. We are dedicated to keeping down the cost of growing up.”

So Memrie teamed up with her sister and sister-in-law way back in 2005 to hold the inaugural Kool Kids in Ruston in what she termed “the hottest August ever.”

Year No. 1 was held in her sister-in-law’s carport with 30 consigners. Fast forward 20 years and now Kool Kids usually boasts merchandise from 400-plus consignors and is held at the Ruston Civic Center (401 North Trenton Street).

For four days (three days are free admission and open to the public: March 5-7) interested moms, dads, grandparents, and parents-to-be can shop merchandise that is usually priced at around one-third of its normal retail price, including upscale name brand kids clothes, toys, baby items, juniors, furniture, and much more.

The first day of Kool Kids (Wednesday, March 4) is a presale only open to special subsets of customers, including Kool Kids volunteers, Kool Kids consignors, new (first time) mothers (pregnant or first child is 12-months or younger), grandparents, heroes (first responders, school employees, healthcare personnel), and guests (consignors are provided with two guest passes).

“Just before our granddaughter was born two years ago, we went to Kool Kids to see what all the fuss was about,” said Susan Yepson. “Now we are absolutely hooked! Everything we needed to get prepared for our baby girl was there, at phenomenal prices.

“This year we are excited to get to shop for our new baby boy. Prices, quality of merchandise, and organization are all outstanding. I can honestly say this well-organized event is easier to shop than some of our chain stores. It is truly my favorite place to shop for our grandchildren.”

Each subset of customers has beginning time slots (see below) where they are allowed to enter the Civic Center on that presale Wednesday.  Due to limited space, no children are allowed in during the presale.

The cutoff to register for the presale is Wednesday, March 4 at noon (see specific registration links below).

“The presale basically gives people a chance to come in and shop for everything you need in one place,” said Memrie. “It can be a little overwhelming, especially being a new mom. The new moms get to bring a guest which is nice. A lot of them are coming for the first time.

“It’s such a great concept that allows shopping in one weekend in one place at great discounts.”

Memrie said the consignors receive 70 percent of the proceeds of the sale of their items during the four-day stretch. Any remaining items can either be donated to a local charity, or the consignors can pick them back up.

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PRESALE (Wednesday, March 4)

Volunteers: 9:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Consignors: 12 to 9 p.m.

New Moms: 1:30 to 9 p.m.

Gran’s: 3:30 to 9 p.m.

Heroes: 5:30 to 9 p.m.

Guests Presale: 6:30 to 9 p.m.

• Registration for Presale closes Wednesday at noon
• Due to limited space, no children or babies are allowed at the Presale.

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New Mom Presale (Wednesday, March 4 from 1:30 to 9 p.m.)

Register here: https://www.consignkoolkids.com/new-moms-sale.php

If you are a first time mom with a child under 12 months, expecting for the first time, or adopting for the first time, register for this special presale.

You may bring one guest!  Admission Cost is $5 each. (One lifetime registration)

We want you to experience what Kool Kids has to offer. Baby supplies, clothes, and equipment … so much that new moms need. It can be overwhelming so hang in there!

Due to limited space, no children or babies are allowed at the Presale.

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Gran’s Presale (Wednesday, March 4 from 3:30 to 9 p.m.)

Register here: https://www.consignkoolkids.com/gran-presale.php

Whether you are expecting a new grandbaby or have many grandchildren, welcome to our sale.  We have baby supplies, pack ‘n plays, clothes, toys and equipment you need at your house!  (Or send to their house!)

You may bring one guest.

Cost is $5 each. 

Grandparents can register every time to shop this special presale!

Due to limited space, no children or babies are allowed at the Presale.

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Heroes Presale (Wednesday, March 4 from 5:30 to 9 p.m.)

Register here: ://www.consignkoolkids.com/heroes-presale.php

If you are a school employee, healthcare worker, first responder, or military (active duty or retired), register now. We appreciate you! 

Share this Event with a HERO friend!

This invitation is for the hero and/or their spouse.  The hero does not have to be present to shop.  Come experience the best deals around! 

You may bring one guest. 

Cost is $5 each plus the Heroes Presale Pass to enter. Heroes can register every time to shop this special presale!

Due to limited space, no children or babies are allowed at the Presale.

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Guest Presale (Wednesday, March 4 from 6:30 to 9 p.m.)

Register here: https://www.consignkoolkids.com/guest-presale.php

You are invited to shop our Guests Presale

Cost is $5.

Shop before the public Thursday- Saturday. 

You don’t want to miss this!!!  

Due to limited space, no children or babies are allowed at the Presale.

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Kool Kids Public Sale (Thursday, March 5 to Saturday, March 7)

Thursday, March 5: 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Friday, March 6: 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Saturday, March 7: 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

• Free admission
• Children welcome during the Public Sale!!! 
• 50% off Saturday from 7:30 am – 5 pm on items written in red.
• NEW**75% off Saturday from 3 pm – 5 pm on many (but not all) items 

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Benefits of Kool Kids

• NO hassle of Marketplace
• NO hassle of haggling prices
• NO running all over town 
• NO “no shows”
• NO meeting strangers for a few dollars when you can sell it in one place and do it safely! 
• Kool Kids takes care of organizing, advertising, and selling YOUR items for you!

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Shopping at Kool Kids

• Kool Kids has EVERYTHING to do with babies – clothes galore! Sleep sacks, infant toys, strollers, swings, activity mats, blankets, books, too much to list!!!
• Children’s Consignment is the BEST! 400+ families = HUGE sale! Great prices, unbelievable deals, and just fun to shop!
• Kool Kids is 100% committed to selling affordable high-quality items for your growing family. When shopping our event, you can expect to pay 40-90 percent less than retail on high-quality name brand and boutique merchandise. Whether it’s play clothes or Beaufort Bonnet – BEST DEALS AROUND! Gently used and in excellent condition! 

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A West Monroe man was arrested in Lincoln Parish last week for obscenity and drug charges after deputies responded to a convenience store regarding an indecent exposure complaint.

Derek Wilbur Hall Jr., 33, was arrested Feb. 26 for obscenity, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, and no liability insurance.

Deputies responding to the store at the corner of La. Highway 33 and Goodgoin Road were told the suspect was leaving in a white semi tractor-trailer with “LEV Leasing” written on it. The 18-wheeler was seen leaving the store by a deputy who stopped it on La. Highway 3072.

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A deputy detected a faint odor of burnt marijuana coming off the driver, Derek Hall. Hall told a deputy he had urinated in the parking lot, and he was taken in the custody.

The complainant at the store told another deputy that Hall entered the gas station and purchased $100 worth of fuel. He then went outside and started pumping fuel and exposed himself as he urinated in the parking lot. The complainant said that once Hall realized he was being observed by customers and store staff, he exposed himself even more. The complainant said a customer complained Hall was rolling suspected marijuana in a cigar in the parking lot.

Hall initially said he had not smoked marijuana or possessed it. He later said he had marijuana in a pill bottle in the sleeper area of his cab. A search of the vehicle located a pill bottle containing a plastic bag of suspected marijuana, and a suspected marijuana cigar.

A check of the truck showed it was not insured. It was towed away.

Hall 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.

A fugitive wanted by Ruston Police has been arrested in Colorado and returned to Louisiana to face charges.

Khalil Tariq Gurley, 23, was stopped by police in Colorado who discovered he was wanted in Ruston.

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Gurley was wanted for attempted second degree in connection with a shooting in Ruston on February 20, 2023

Lt. Kayla Loyd, spokesperson for RPD, said a Ruston officer was flown to Colorado by Louisiana State Police pick up Gurley. When Gurley and the officer returned to Ruston Regional Airport, they were met by another RPD who booked Gurley at the Lincoln Parish Detention Center.

Gurley’s bail is set at $300,000.

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.