Lincoln Parish students brought home dozens of awards recently after returning from the state Future Business Leaders of America conference held in Lafayette. Those who placed fourth and up will have the opportunity to attend the national FBLA competition, which will be held this summer in San Anthonio.  

Students who placed in the top 10 are listed by school. 

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Choudrant High School 

8th Place —  Cybersecurity, Emery Jackson 

8th Place —  Data Science and AI, Isabella Ammons 

8th Place —  Hospitality and Event Management, Hannah Bryan 

8th Place —  Introduction to Information Technology, Amber Davis 

8th Place —  Retail Management, Ben Rinehart 

7th Place —  Banking and Financial Systems Team, Jackson Ambrose and Ryan Snyder 

7th Place —  Insurance and Risk Management, Emily Snyder 

7th Place – Networking Infrastructures, Kahless Carnahan 

7th Place —  Agribusiness, Jack Wood 

6th Place —  Introduction to Business Communication, Abi Hyde 

6th Place – Business Communication, Benton Case 

6th Place —  Introduction to Business Concepts, Eric Pearce 

5th Place —  Introduction to Marketing Concepts, Josie Dickerson 

3rd Place —  Current Events and General Information Team, Kahless Carnahan, Karson Bell, and Braden Bagwell 

4th Place —  Introduction to Supply Chain Management, Brooklynn Bryan 

4th Place —  Parliamentary Procedure Team, Sawyer Cunningham, Jack Wood, Emery Jackson, and Gabriel Simpson 

4th Place —  Sales Presentation Team, Ben Rinehart, Benton Case, and Hagen Davis 

2nd Place —  Marketing, Cooper Johnson 

2nd Place – Introduction to Retail Management, Amber Davis 

2nd Place – Customer Service, Gabriel Simpson 

1st Place – Introduction to Supply Chain Management, Josie Dickerson 

1st Place – Supply Chain Management, Cy Spatafora and Pierce Johnston 

 

Ruston Junior High School 

Knox Beck: Exp Marketing Concepts, 6th; Exp Business Ethics, 5th 

Dailen Beckwith: Exp Marketing Strategies, 3rd 

Brett Brown: Exp Economics, 5th; Exp Business Ethics, 5th 

Carley Carter: Exp Business Issues, 2nd 

William Coleman: Exp Accounting & Finance, 5th, Exp Pers Finance, 8th 

Kohlston Crowe: Comm Service Presentation, 5th 

Grant Davenport: Exp Technology, 9th, Exp Economics, 8th 

Nolan Ehrhard: Exp Parliamentary Procedure, 1st, Exp Marketing Strategies, 3rd 

Savannah Foster: Exp Parliamentary Procedure, 3rd, Exp Mgt and Entrepren, 1st 

Kobie-Jace Freeman: Career Research, 5th, Comm Service Presentation, 5th 

Kourtlynn Gray: Interpersonal Communication, 9th 

AJ Johnson: Exp Marketing Concepts, 2nd, Exp Mgt and Entrepren, 1st 

Peyton Jones: Exp Agribusiness, 5th 

Mikel Key: Exp FBLA, 8th 

Kate Klepzig: Exploring Professionalism, 2nd, Exp Marketing Strategies, 4th 

Rae Lynn Levette: Exploring Bus Communications, 10th, Exp Cust Service, 3rd 

Logan Mack: Exp Professionalism, 6th, Exp Marketing Strategies, 4th 

Amelia Meek: Career Research, 2nd, Exp Mgt and Entrepren, 1st 

Jaebrey Miller: Exp Bus Communication, 7th, Exp Cust Service, 3rd 

Christopher Montgomery: Exp Computer Science, 1st, Exp Technology, 3rd 

Stella Myers: Exp Public Speaking, 8th, Exp Cust Service, 3rd 

Piper Nash: Career Exploration, 2nd, Exp Marketing Concepts, 4th 

John Cole Parker: Exp Bus Ethics, 5th 

Hunter Reeder: Exp Marketing Strategies, 3rd 

Alice Roberts: Exp Public Speaking, 4th, Interpersonal Communication, 3rd 

Olivia Rodgers: Exp Accounting & Finance, 4th, Exp Professionalism, 4th 

Raina Sharma: Exp Bus Concepts, 6th, Exp Business Issues, 2nd 

Trenton Shorter: Exp Business Issues, 3rd 

Tristen Smith: Exp Business Issues, 3rd 

Peyton Taylor: Exp Accounting & Finance, 1st, Exp Coding and Programming, 1st 

Jahsai Todd-Hubbard: Comm Service Project, 5th 

Lawrence Vernon: Exp Business Issues, 3rd 

Brant Youngblood: Exp Business Concepts, 2nd, Exp Agribusiness, 2nd 

 

Ruston High School  

Chapter Awards: 

1. 2nd place in the Sweepstakes Competition
2. 3rd place: Gold Seal Chapter Award of Merit
3. 7th place: Largest Chapter Membership
4. 8th place: FBLA Foundation Award 

Individual/Team Awards: 

1. Richard D. Clanton Memorial Award: Melissa Le – 1st place and Joshua Daulton – 4th place
2. Who’s Who in Louisiana FBLA: Joshua Daulton – 1st place (will be recognized on state at Nationals this summer in San Antonio) and Melissa Le – 2nd place
3. Future Business Leader: Melissa Le – 3rd place and Joshua Daulton – 5th place
4. Community Service Project: Team of Joshua Daulton, Hannah Daulton, and Emily McGuirt – 1st place
5. Local Chapter Annual Business Report: Team of Katie Broadus, Nyah Metoyer, and Emory Winters – 1st place
6. Data Analysis: Caleb Barber – 4th place
7. Data Science & AI: James King – 1st place and Preston Parker – 2nd
8. Introduction to Information Technology: Jett Jones – 1st place
9. Economics: Boston Smith – 2nd place and Jordan Durant – 6th place
10. Visual Design: Team of Ally Brazzell and Marirose Spillers – 2nd place
11. Human Resource Management: Layla Garner – 9th place and Libby Blake – 10th place
12. Introduction to FBLA: Hannah Daulton – 5th place
13. Financial Planning: Team of Emory Winters and Nyah Metoyer – 2nd place
14. Computer Problem Solving: Jett Jones – 7th place
15. Health Care Administration: Trisha Pangilinan – 6th place
16. Financial StatementAnalysis :Emily McGuirt – 1st place 
17. Public Speaking: Melissa Le – 1st place
18. Advertising: Brianna Clack – 8th place
19. Sports & Entertainment Management: Team of Brad Denny and Hoss Flournoy – 6th place
20. Insurance & Risk Management: Cielo Vidal – 6th place
21. Parliamentary Procedure: Team of Isaiah Dozier, Carter Ehrhard, Boston Smith, Sadie Gorman, and BrilynGuilory- 2nd place 
    21. Business Plan: Team of Morghan Hill and Mason Williams – 3rd place 
22. Digital Video Production: Team of Jamari McBride and Christian Lowery – 10 place
23. Project Management:PresonParker – 2nd place and Briley Mack – 9th place 
24. Journalism: Trisha Pangilinan – 2nd place
25. Introduction to Public Speaking:A’MyrieJackson – 1st place and Hannah Daulton – 4th place 
26. Public Administration & Management: Brad Denny – 4th place
27. Current Events & General Information: Team of Trisha Pangilinan, Layla Garner, and Kendra Hercules – 9th place
28. Introduction to Business Presentation: Team of Keyora Braggs and Kate Davis – 1st and Team of Jackson Beckwith, R.J. Giles, and Braylen Gipson – 2nd place
29. Introduction to Programming: Team of Raina Dunn and Shaterria Walker – 5th place
30. Event Planning: Team of B.J. Kent,A’MyrieJackson, and Kendra Hercules – 4th place 

 

Simsboro School 

• Bryson Yarborough – 9th place in Job Interview 

• Bentley Salter – 6th place in Computer Applications 

• Callie Harrison – 6th place in Introduction to Retail and Merchandising and 5th place in Event Planning 

• Alex Cole – 4th place in Computer Game and Simulation Programming 

• Kaley Colohua, Noami Mujica and Bryson Yarborough – 3rd place in Community Service Project 

• Brooklynn Boyd, Emily Madden and Kira Wright – 2nd place in Local Chapter Annual Business Report  

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.

LPJ Sports Report

Cedar Creek Erupts for 22-Run First, Blanks Lincoln Prep

Cedar Creek put the game away before Lincoln Prep could settle in, erupting for 22 runs in the first inning en route to a 22-1 victory on Saturday.

The Cougars sent a parade of hitters to the plate in a historic opening frame, capitalizing on patience and timely hitting. Brett Bell got things started with an RBI single, and Cedar Creek never let up. Ryan Coleman, Noah Smith, Jax Doiron and Drew Wade each drew bases-loaded walks to force in runs, while Eli Slocum delivered a two-run single to highlight the early surge.

Cedar Creek continued to pile on as Connor Yates was hit by a pitch with the bases loaded, an error brought home another run, and Carter Nichols added an RBI walk. Coleman, Smith and Wade each contributed additional RBIs later in the inning, while Doiron drove in two with a groundout. Cason Floyd capped the frame with a two-run single as the Cougars built an insurmountable lead.

Yates earned the win on the mound, striking out three in a perfect inning of work. Doiron added relief for Cedar Creek as the Cougars controlled the game from start to finish.

Slocum and Coleman each recorded two hits to lead the offense. Bell, Smith, Coleman and Doiron drove in three runs apiece in a balanced attack. Cedar Creek also showed strong plate discipline, drawing 11 walks, with Smith and Kade Luker leading the way with three each.

The Cougars will look to carry the momentum into Monday’s matchup against Ouachita Parish.

Grand Slam Lifts ASH Past Ruston 8-4

A five-run second inning, highlighted by a grand slam from Bryson Phoenix, proved to be the difference as Ruston fell to ASH 8-4 on Friday.

ASH struck first in the opening inning on an RBI single by Caden Extine, but Ruston answered in the second to briefly take control. JP Moak delivered an RBI single and two more runs scored on an error, giving the Bearcats a 3-1 lead.

That advantage didn’t last long. ASH flipped the game in the bottom of the second, erupting for five runs on three hits. Phoenix provided the decisive blow with a grand slam to left field, pushing the Trojans in front 6-3.

ASH added to its lead in the third when Cooper Robinson singled home a run to make it 7-3. Ruston was unable to fully recover despite steady relief work from Peyton Nations, who allowed just one run over four innings while striking out four without issuing a walk.

Max Pyles took the loss for Ruston, surrendering seven runs on six hits over two innings. ASH starter Jack Lee earned the win, striking out nine while allowing four runs (two earned) across five innings.

Ruston finished with four hits, with Moak, Sam Hartwell, Hudson Wood and Jackson Lee each recording one. Moak and Lander Smith drove in runs for the Bearcats.

ASH collected 10 hits on the night, led by Phoenix, who went 2-for-3 with four RBIs. Phoenix, Jaxon Ross and Robinson each had two hits for the Trojans.

Ruston returns to action tonight at home against St. Frederick’s.

Family Community Christian Hands Aggies 11-1 Road Loss

Family Community Christian broke open the game early and rolled past the Aggies 11-1 on Friday at Family Community Christian School.

The Aggies grabbed a brief lead in the top of the first when Cam Bagwell doubled and drove in a run. But Family Community Christian answered immediately in the bottom half of the inning, scoring three times to take control. Blayne Lord doubled to center, Colton Lindsey added an RBI single down the left-field line and Chase McMurray followed with a run-scoring double to make it 3-1.

Family Community Christian added four more runs in the second inning and never looked back. Eli Cottingham, Lord and McMurray each delivered RBI singles during the rally as the Warriors stretched the lead to 7-1.

Cash Camp started on the mound for the Aggies and worked two innings, allowing eight hits and seven runs, four of them earned, while striking out two and walking one. Cottingham earned the win for Family Community Christian after holding the Aggies to one run on four hits over five innings. He struck out seven and walked one.

Bagwell finished 1 for 3 and drove in the Aggies’ lone run. Cy Spatafora, Braden Bagwell and Gavin Hall also had hits.

Family Community Christian piled up 15 hits. Lord led the way from the middle of the order, going 3 for 4 with four RBIs. McMurray, Cottingham, Lindsey, Gavin Griffing and Kaden Burrier each had multiple hits. The Warriors also played a clean defensive game without an error, with Eli Rials recording six plays in the field.

The Aggies return to action Tuesday against Downsville.

Simsboro Rides Fast Start, Plate Discipline to 15-4 Win Over Union Parish

Simsboro used an early surge and relentless pressure on the bases to pull away for a 15-4 win over Union Parish on Friday.

The Tigers struck quickly in the first inning, taking advantage of an error before Trevor Cook delivered a two-run single to make it 3-0. Simsboro added to the lead in the second with a hit-by-pitch and an RBI double from Michael Watts.

After building a steady advantage, Simsboro broke the game open in the sixth with a six-run inning. Bryson Yarborough was hit by a pitch with the bases loaded, Maximus Lee drew an RBI walk, and Chris Stevens and Chris Harrell each delivered two-run doubles to stretch the lead out of reach.

Lee earned the win on the mound, allowing one hit and one run over 2⅓ innings while striking out three. David Cedotal provided solid relief, working 3⅔ innings and allowing three runs, two earned. Union Parish starter Khaidyn Johnson took the loss after allowing nine runs, six earned, over 4⅓ innings.

Watts led the Tigers offensively with four RBIs, while Harrell and Cook each collected two hits. Simsboro showed strong discipline at the plate, drawing 13 walks, with Lee, Stevens and Cedotal each earning three free passes.

The Tigers also created havoc on the bases, stealing 11 bases in the game, with Lee and Yarborough each swiping multiple bags.

Union Parish was led by Jonte Lee, who went 2-for-3. The hosts also drew six walks, with Johnson and Javion Island collecting two apiece. Island added a pair of stolen bases, and Union Parish turned one double play.

Simsboro returns to action Tuesday against Haynesville.

by Malcolm Butler

Lincoln Parish was well represented on the Louisiana High School Athletic Association Class B all-state basketball teams released Sunday.

On the boys side, Choudrant High senior Brayden Pye and Simsboro High senior Ahmad Smith were both tabbed honorable mention all-state after stellar seasons on the hardwood. 

On the girls side, Choudrant High senior Sadie Jones earned honorable mention accolades.

Pye, a 6-foot-1-inch senior forward, averaged 11.4 points and 6.8 rebounds a game for the Aggies as he led Choudrant to a 21-12 record, the district title, and a second round playoff appearance.

Pye was named the District 2B MVP and was a member of the all-Lincoln Parish Journal team. 

“Brayden had a wonder senior year, especially towards the end of the season,” said head coach Ryan Smith. “He continued to work hard every day. That lead to a more expanded role for him on both sides of the ball. His athleticism and experience will be tough to replace. We are going to miss him for sure.”

Smith averaged more than 20 points, 5 assists and 5 rebounds per game for the Tigers, helping lead the team to the second round of the Class B playoffs before losing to eventual state champion Lacassine. 

“Ahmad is a flat out scorer who when he gets going puts on a show,” said Simsboro Head Coach Adam Wodach. “He plays the game with so much joy and it’s a pleasure to get to watch him every night.”

Jones, a 5-foot-7-inch senior forward, averaged 12.8 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 3.4 steals per game to help lead the Lady Aggies to a 24-8 record, the District 2B title, and a second round playoff appearance.

Jones earned Co-District MVP honors and was a member of the all-Lincoln Parish Journal team. 

“Sadie really put in a lot of extra work in the off season this year, and it really showed,” said head coach Brandy Robertson. “She was comfortable both in and outside the perimeter this season, and it really made her a threat.”

GIRLS

FIRST TEAM

Klancie Hebert, Bell City, Jr., 5-6, 12.0

Payton Herpin, Bell City, Sr., 5-10, 21.0

Charley Lentz, Pitkin, Jr., 5-6, 17.0

Pazila’ra Sanders, Zwolle, So., 5-7, 19.0

A.J. Williams, Fairview, Jr., 5-6, 19.0

SECOND TEAM

Alli Cradeur, Hathaway, Sr., 5-5, 14.0

Anna Leach, Quitman, Jr., 5-6, 16.0

Lylah Maricle, Pitkin, Fr., 5-3, 12.0

Kaiya Miller, Negreet, Sr., 5-7, 16.0

Andee Stanley, Fairview, Sr., 5-6, 16.0

MOST OUTSTANDING PLAYER: Payton Herpin, Bell City

COACH OF THE YEAR: Phillip George, Pitkin

HONORABLE MENTION

Ava Davis, Anacoco; Blaize Foster, Holden; Ahmari Harris, Glenmora; Lanie Johnson, Oak Hill; Sadie Jones, Choudrant; JaLela Richardson, Florien, Lila Sepulvado, Negreet; Annie Thweatt, Zwolle.

BOYS

FIRST TEAM

Maliki Broussard, Lacassine, Jr., 6-1, 25.0

Landon Bussey, Zwolle, Sr., 6-2, 15.0

Brayden Smith, Quitman, Sr. 5-9, 15.0

Landon Tinsley, Anacoco, Fr., 6-6, 16.0

Shy’Heef Willis, Lacassine, Sr., 6-2, 14.0

 

SECOND TEAM

Addison Coffman, Hicks, Sr., 6-2, 18.0

Noah Guidry, Hathaway, Fr., 5-10, 20.0

Jermontrice Sudds, Stanley, So., 6-0, 21.0

Caleb Taylor, Anacoco, Jr. 5-11, 14.0

Kash Wisby, Pitkin, Sr., 5-9, 15.0

MOST OUTSTANDING PLAYER: Maliki Broussard, Lacassine

COACH OF THE YEAR: Bradley McLaren, Zwolle

HONORABLE MENTION

Ace Bowling, Negreet; Ty Goodwin, Oak Hill; De’Marion Hargrave, Zwolle; Aidan Hutchinson, Holden; Brayden Martin, Quitman; Brayden Pye, Choudrant; Ahmad Smith, Simsboro; Haydan Thompson, Castor.

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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 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)

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Tuesday, March 31
5:30-6:30 p.m.: RPAR’s 5th annual Easter ‘Eggs’stravaganza (Ruston Sports Complex)
6:30 a.m.: Veterans free breakfast (VFW Post 3615, 206 Memorial Dr.)
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
10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.: Book signing with local author Kathy Crowder (Rolling Hills Ministry Books and Coffee, 1103 Farmerville Hwy., Ruston)
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
3-6 p.m.: Self-guided Good Friday tour experiencing Jesus’s steps (Temple Baptist Church, Family Life Center Gym)

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

Sunday, April 5
Easter

Monday, April 6
11:30 a.m.: Lunch on Us (Presbyterian Church, 212 North Bonner Street., Ruston) — everyone welcome
5:30 p.m.: Ruston City Council meeting
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, April 7
5 p.m.: MFA Thesis Exhibition Artists’ Talks Opening Reception (F.J. Taylor Visual Arts Center, Room 103, Louisiana Tech)
6:30 a.m.: Veterans free breakfast (VFW Post 3615, 206 Memorial Dr.)
6 p.m.: GSU baseball

Wednesday, April 8
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  9
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)
Noon: Lincoln Parish School Board meeting (Cypress Springs Elementary School)
6 p.m.: Southern A’Chord Chorus rehearsal (Presbyterian Church fellowship hall, 212 N. Bonner St.; open to all women singers)

Friday, April 10
1 p.m.: GSU softball
6 p.m.: LA Tech baseball
6 p.m.: LA Tech softball
6 p.m.: GSU baseball

Saturday, April 11
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
Noon: GSU softball
2 p.m.: GSU softball
2 p.m.: LA Tech baseball
2 p.m.: LA Tech softball
3 p.m.: GSU baseball

Sunday, April 12
11 a.m. LA Tech softball
1 p.m.: LA Tech baseball
1 p.m.: GSU baseball

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

Courtesy of LA Tech Athletic Communications

Jacksonville State 4, Bulldog Baseball 0 (Friday)

Jacksonville State 5, Bulldogs 3 (Saturday)

Jacksonville State 7, Bulldogs 4 (Sunday)

The Diamond ‘Dogs (15-14, 4-5 CUSA) fell on the wrong side of a series sweep, dropping Sunday’s finale to Jacksonville State (24-5, 9-0 CUSA), 7-4, at JC Love Field at Pat Patterson Park.

Tech dropped Friday’s game 4-0 and then fell Saturday 5-3.

This marks the first time the ‘Dogs have been swept at home in a CUSA series since 2019 to Southern Miss in the conference-opening weekend.

“Obviously, it’s disappointing to lose and to get swept at home,” said head coach Lane Burroughs. “We’ve been swept before-that’s not the issue. The issue is how we’re playing, and finding different ways to lose. It’s not due to effort or ability, and we have to figure it out.”

A 6-3 twin killing turned by Colton Coates and a looking strikeout is how the afternoon started defensively for the Bulldogs. In Tech’s first turn to bat, Coates led off with a base hit on the first pitch of the game but was thrown out on a 9-4-3 putout after overrunning first base.

Trey Hawsey was hit by a pitch and Colby Lunsford drew a walk to give Tech a runner in scoring position, but a fielder’s choice and a swinging strikeout ended the inning.

The ‘Dogs built up a 3-0 lead in the second with no outs on five-straight Tech batters reaching base safely. Wesly Scott and Reid Snider led off with back-to-back singles before a 3-2 walk drawn by McCann Libby loaded the bases.

Casey McCoy picked up the third single of the frame driving a pitch just over 100 miles per hour through the middle of the infield, scoring Scott and Snider. Coates’ second base hit of the game was cashed in to score Libby, followed with a Colby Lunsford single to load the bases again with one out.

Eli Berch capped off the frame with a sacrifice fly to the JSU center fielder, giving the Bulldogs a 4-0 lead heading into the third.

Landon Fontenot dealt four innings of no-hit baseball in his outing, allowing just four walks and two HBPs while picking up the backwards K to end the first.

The Gamecocks etched across their first run of the day in the fifth, with the leadoff batter reaching second on an error and a sacrifice bunt before coming around to score on an RBI base hit. A solo homer the next at-bat cut Tech’s lead to two, but an infield pop-up to Hawsey ended the frame.

A pair of errors and two hits allowed Jax State to score three runs in the seventh, giving them a 5-4 lead before a one-out two-RBI in the eighth pushed the Gamecocks’ lead out to three runs.

“It’s not an ability thing or that any of the guys aren’t playing hard,” said Burroughs. “I just don’t think they’re playing to win-it seems more of a mental thing right now. I’m not a psychiatrist, but I have to get to the bottom of it because I am the head coach of this baseball team.”

The ‘Dogs only managed one hit after the four-run second-a lead-off single in the eighth before being put out on a double play to end the inning. Tech also drew a walk and put a runner in scoring position with one out in the fourth, but a strikeout and a groundout left him stranded.

The Bulldogs close out their four-game homestand when they play host to ULM on Tuesday, March 31 at the Love Shack. First pitch is set for 4 p.m. CT.

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Bulldog Softball 9, Missouri State 5 (Friday)

Bulldogs 2, Missouri State 0 (Saturday)

Missouri State 3,Bulldogs 0 (Sunday)

Louisiana Tech softball was shutout on Sunday in a 3-0 loss to Missouri State at Dr. Billy Bundrick Field. The Bulldogs move to 19-16 (5-7 Conference USA) with the loss.

Tech won the series 2-1 after winning 9-5 on Friday and 2-0 on Saturday.

However, on Sunday, the Bulldogs left 11 runners on base — including two in each of the second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth innings — as they were outhit 5-4 by the Bears. Gracie Flores and Elena Heng recorded doubles for LA Tech, while Allie Furr and Reese Torres singled.

“I thought [Bryannah] Campos came in and did a really great job,” said head coach Josh Taylor. “She kept them off balance. I thought Laney [Johnson] came in and did a really good job. Five hits and three runs at home, you should certainly be able to win that game and we were not able to.”

Allie Floyd (8-9) took the loss after allowing two runs on three hits with one walk and three strikeouts over 3.0 innings. Bryannah Campos worked 3.0 scoreless frames as she retired nine batters straight. Laney Johnson pitched the seventh and allowed one run on two hits.

MSU took an early 1-0 lead after a one-out walk and a stolen base put a runner in scoring position, who later scored on a double.

The Bears added a run in the top of the fourth as back-to-back singles and a throwing error placed two in scoring position with no outs. After a pitching change, MSU utilized a sacrifice fly as Campos retired the first batter she faced.

LA Tech threatened in the bottom of the sixth as Aleah Brooks drew a lead off walk followed by a pinch-hit double from Gracie Flores that placed runners on second and third with no outs. MSU took advantage of a shallow fly out, a groundout and strikeout to end the scoring threat.

MSU made it 3-0 in the top of the seventh after a lead off walk and a bunt single placed two on. A sac bunt moved both runners up 60 feet while a third bunt would score the runner from third.

The Bulldogs went down in order in the bottom of the seventh on a groundout, strikeout and fly out to end the game.

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Texas Southern 15, Grambling Baseball 8

Grambling 9, Texas Southern 5

Texas Southern 12, Grambling 1

Grambling State struck first on Sunday afternoon, but Texas Southern used a series of big innings to pull away as the Tigers fell 12-1 at MacGregor Park.

Grambling State (9-17 overall, 6-3 SWAC) grabbed a 1-0 lead in the top of the second inning, taking advantage of its only sustained offensive push of the day. After Aidan Lopez drew a leadoff walk, Shannon Martin ripped a double down the left-field line to put two runners in scoring position. Chris Marcellus followed with an RBI single to left, scoring Lopez for the early advantage.

However, that would be all Grambling State could generate against Texas Southern starter Justin Mays, who delivered a dominant outing. Mays (3-1) threw 8.0 innings, allowing just two hits and one run while striking out 12 and issuing three walks.

Texas Southern (12-11, 7-2) responded in the bottom of the fourth, capitalizing on a pair of home runs during a four-run frame. After a leadoff single by Byron Robinson, Evan Joubert connected for a two-run homer to give TSU a 2-1 lead. Later in the inning, an error extended the frame before Anthony Ruiz added a two-run home run of his own to make it 4-1.

TSU broke the game open with another four-run inning in the sixth, taking advantage of four walks and two hits. Nate Lopez drew a bases-loaded walk to drive in the first run of the inning, and RBI contributions from Christopher Chavez, Jonathan Trejo and Robinson pushed the lead to 8-1.

Texas Southern added four more runs in the eighth, punctuated by Robinson’s second home run of the afternoon — a three-run shot to left.

Grambling State was held to two hits: Martin’s second-inning double and Marcellus’ RBI single. The Tigers also drew three walks but struck out 12 times.

On the mound, starter Shaun Mante (1-1) worked 4.0 innings, allowing four runs on four hits with three strikeouts. The bullpen combined for the remaining frames, with Mohamed Harati, Trenton Shaw, Hampton Phillips and Jacobie Smith all seeing action.

Texas Southern finished with nine hits, including home runs from Robinson, Joubert and Ruiz. Robinson drove in four runs and scored twice, while Trejo added two hits and two RBI.

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UAPB 9, Grambling Softball 4 (Friday)

Grambling 17, UAPB 12 (Saturday – Game 1)

Grambling 6, UAPB 3 (Saturday – Game 2)

The Grambling State Tigers softball team swept a Southwestern Athletic Conference doubleheader over Arkansas-Pine Bluff on Saturday at the GSU Softball Complex.

The Tigers powered to a 17–12 victory in game one before securing the sweep with a 6–3 win in game two.

In the opener Grambling State exploded offensively, racking up 17 runs on 16 hits in a back-and-forth contest.

Arkansas-Pine Bluff struck first with two runs in the opening inning, but the Tigers quickly responded.

Kamryn Broussard sparked the rally with a two-RBI triple before Z’Natria Evans followed with an RBI single to give Grambling State a 3–2 lead.

The Tigers continued to build momentum in the second inning, plating four runs behind RBI singles from Cadashia Collins and Evans.

Grambling State added three more runs in the third inning highlighted by a two-RBI single from Ziya Donaldson to extend the lead to 10–4.

Arkansas-Pine Bluff answered with a five-run fourth inning to close the gap, but Grambling State responded immediately.

The Tigers erupted for five runs in the bottom half of the inning with Ashunte Specks delivering an RBI double and Donaldson adding another two-RBI single.

The Golden Lions cut into the lead with a three-run home run in the fifth inning, but the Tigers sealed the game in the sixth when Tavia Leadon drove in two runs with a single to make it 17–12.

Specks led the Tigers at the plate, going 3-for-5 with four runs scored and two RBIs. Evans added three hits and three RBIs, while Donaldson drove in four runs.

Erin Gibbs earned the win in the circle while Jaidan Richard provided relief.

In game two, Grambling State used a late surge to complete the sweep.

Arkansas-Pine Bluff jumped out to an early 2–0 lead in the first inning on a two-run home run.

Tavia Leadon put Grambling State on the board in the second inning with an RBI single, and Kamille Carter added another RBI single in the fourth to make it 3–2.

The Tigers evened the score in the fifth inning when Logan-Ray Gaspar delivered an RBI single.

Grambling State took control in the sixth inning, capitalizing on an error to take the lead before Ziya Donaldson delivered a clutch two-RBI single to extend the advantage to 6–3.

Donaldson paced the offense in game two with a perfect 4-for-4 performance and two RBIs. Gaspar and Leadon each added an RBI in the win.

Hailei Harrell tossed a complete game in the circle allowing three runs while earning the victory.

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Martha Jean Jones Edmiston 
July 17, 1939  –  March 21, 2026 
Final Resting Place: Mount Zion Cemetery, Mount Zion Rd, Clay 

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by Hanna Singh

A talented Ruston native pageant queen is competing at the Miss America Volunteer competition this summer. Miss Arkansas Volunteer, Anna-Katherine Thompson, will show off her talent on the national stage as she vies for the title of Miss America Volunteer.

A Ruston High School graduate, Thompson has a strong connection to Lincoln Parish. While attending Cedar Creek and RHS, Thompson became highly involved in local leadership, community service, teen pageantry and the arts. She participated in the Cedar Creek theater program and eventually took on roles at the Ruston Community Theater. Between sports, school leadership and volunteerism, Thompson still found time to pursue her love of singing. Starting out by singing the National Anthem at a Cedar Creek football game as a 6^th grader, Thompson has now found herself performing in large stadiums including the Savannah Bananas game at the superdome.

Thompson described how her time in Ruston influenced her passions and perseverance in the pageant world.

“I’ve just had such a wonderful village from Ruston and across the parish who have loved me, encouraged me and supported me over the years so much,” Thompson said. “They have always uplifted me even when I didn’t believe in myself. I wouldn’t be the person that I am today without the people from my home supporting me the way that they always have.”

Although Thompson has held many pageant titles over the years, the Miss Volunteer organization is a new venture for her. She became involved last summer after realizing how much the volunteer and service side of pageantry meant to her. The Miss Volunteer organization focuses on 5 pillars of their mission, S.E.R.V.E. Scholarship, education, responsibility, volunteerism and empowerment. These principles each define a part of the competition that competitors like Thompson are encouraged to embody and pursue. For Thompson’s volunteer work, she raises funds to support the St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.

Her own service initiative, P3: Pledging Purple Preemies, supports her mission to raise funds and awareness for the March of Dimes, the world leader in conducting research and raising awareness to decrease preventable premature births and maternal health risk. Through vying for the title of Miss America Volunteer, Thompson hopes to raise more awareness for her cause and fund the organizations through her sponsors.

“This is very important to me because I was born five weeks premature with a grade three cerebral bleed and was in the hospital for 18 days,” Thompson said. “I have been an advocate for the March of Dimes since the age of 13. In that time, I have helped raise thousands of dollars, collect hundreds of blankets blessings and represented Louisiana on the National Collegiate Leadership Council.”

Despite being new to the Miss Volunteer organization, Thompson is not shy to the pageant world. With her mother working as pageant director, she got used to being around the glitz and glam from a young age. Thompson made her debut on the pageant stage while participating in the Mentorship Princess Program from the ages of 5 to 10. She competed for 3 years in the Miss Louisiana Teen pageant and for 5 years in the Miss Louisiana pageant.

Thompson’s mother, Donna Thompson, highlighted what makes her daughter’s journey special and shared her emotions on Thompson’s latest success.

“Watching Anna-Katherine grow through pageantry has been one of the greatest joys of my life,” Donna said. “It has shaped her into a confident and compassionate young woman with a true servant’s heart. That spirit of service has guided so much of her success. The opportunities that she has gained along the way have been incredible; but what means the most is the love and support she’s received from our Ruston community and beyond. We are so proud and excited to see her represent Arkansas on the Miss Volunteer America stage this June.”

Throughout her time in Ruston, Thompson has built many connections and drawn inspiration from former pageant competitors in the area. Former pageant queen, Mette Castor has served as a mentor for Thompson during her time in pageantry. Castor recalled watching Thompson grow up in the spotlight and become more equipped, refined and confident over the years. While preparing for the national stage, Thompson and her team have worked to develop a very intentional approach for the competition. From her music choice to her wardrobe, Castor believes that Thompson will have something special to truly impress the judges.

“I have known Anna-Katherine for her entire life. To see her now, having the opportunity to compete at Miss Volunteer America, is so special,” Castor said. “She is incredibly talented and I’m super excited for her. As an old queen, it’s really so special to impart some of that guidance and hopefully wisdom to younger girls. As I see Anna-Katherine grow  as a young woman and a competitor, it’s meaningful because I love her so much. It’s amazing to get to be a part of something like this with her.”

As Thompson prepares to shine on the national stage, she continues to raise awareness and funds for her initiatives, provide leadership in her local communities and inspire young girls to dream big. Watch Anna-Katherine compete this summer at the Miss America Volunteer pageant on June 17-20.

 

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A fight in Ruston led to a stabbing on the Grambling State University campus when the parties involved encountered each other in a dormitory.

Javon Isaac King, 19, of North Little Rock, Arkansas, was arrested about 5:45 a.m. on March 23 after he allegedly stabbed another GSU student with a pair of scissors.

The alleged victim and his friend said King and the victim engaged in an argument at a Ruston apartment. The friend said King threatened to kill the victim and went to the kitchen to get a knife.

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The friend then took the victim back to his dorm room in Wheatley Hall at GSU. The friend said about ten minutes later, the victim came outside saying King had stabbed him.

Witnesses told GSU Police they saw King and the victim fighting in the dormitory.

The witnesses told officers they saw King stabbing the victim, with one providing a video of some of the incident.

Before transport to the hospital, the victim told police he punched King first. King reportedly told officers he ran to his dorm room and retrieved a pair of scissors, returned to the first floor where the victim supposedly punched King in the face and King responded by stabbing him several times.

King was booked into the Lincoln Parish Detention Center for aggravated second degree battery. His bail was set at $250,000.

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

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

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A Ruston man and a Jonesboro woman were arrested for drug possession and other charges Sunday after deputies investigated a homeowner’s complaint that a suspicious vehicle was parked in his driveway.

Ricky G. Harrison 73, and Willie L. Heart, 57, were arrested at a Highway 3061 residence on March 22 when they were found in a pickup truck backed into the caller’s driveway.

When deputies arrived, Harrison left the truck and approached, but was returned to the vehicle and asked for identification. Inside the truck, a deputy saw numerous plastic bags, rolling papers, marijuana, and a white powder on the center console.

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Hart, the passenger, said they were just having fun and smoking a little. A deputy saw a white powder on her door armrest.

A search of the vehicle located suspected marijuana, numerous burnt marijuana cigarettes, drug paraphernalia, and a small amount of crack cocaine.

Harrison and Hart were arrested and both were booked as a Lincoln Parish Detention Center for possession of marijuana, possession of cocaine, possession of drug paraphernalia, and criminal trespass.

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

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

by Malcolm Butler

The Cedar Creek girls powerlifting team made history Thursday as the Lady Cougars captured their fifth straight Division V state title at the LHSAA championships in Kenner.

Five Lady Cougars won their respective individual titles and a total of eight earned podium finishes as Cedar Creek scored a total of 104 points to defeat runner-up Sacred Heart Ville Platte (73 points).

“The girls wanted to leave no doubt today,” said head coach Jacob Angevine. “They all had a great day and absolutely owned the show. I’m so proud of their hard work and blessed to be their coach.”

Cedar Creek swept the Most Outstanding Lifter Awards as Marley Jinks took home the Light Platforms while Gia Garlington won the Heavy Platforms. 

Jinks (114-pound class) and Garlington (165-pound class) were joined as individual state champions by teammates Joanie Cannon (105-pound class), Catherine Williams (148-pound class), and Kate Harris (198-pound class). 

Cannon broke the Divisional squat record for the 105-pound class with a mark of 270 pounds, while Harris broke the Divisional deadlift mark (350 pounds) and total record (865 pounds) in the 198-pound class. 

Three other Lady Cougars earned a place on the podium, including Aubrey Singleton (2nd place, 97-pound class), Jillian Ramsey (3rd place, 114-pound class), and Kenna Williams (3rd, 181-pound class). 

 

Individual State Champion

Joanie Cannon (105-pound class) – 1st (270 lb squat, 135 lb bench, 260 lb deadlift = 665 lb total)

Marley Jinks (114-pound class) – 1st (285 lb squat, 140 lb bench, 280 lb deadlift = 705 lb total)

Catherine Williams (148-pound class) – 1st (325 lb squat, 195 lb bench, 320 lb deadlift = 840 lb total)

Gia Garlington (165 pound class) – 1st (360 lb squat, 205 lb bench, 290 lb deadlift = 855 lb total)

Kate Harris (198-pound class) – 1st (340 lb squat, 175 lb bench, 350 lb deadlift = 865 lb total)

Podium

Aubrey Singleton (97-pound class) – 2nd (205 lb squat, 105 lb bench, 200 lb deadlift = 510 lb total)

Jillian Ramsey (114-pound class) – 3rd (230 lb squat, 95 lb bench, 230 lb deadlift = 555 lb total)

Kenna Williams (181-pound class) – 3rd (260 lb squat, 135 lb bench, 300 lb deadlift = 695 lb total)

Other Competitors

Lexie Vance (165-pound class) – 4th (290 lb squat, 145 lb bench, 260 lb deadlift = 695 lb total)

Ainsley Dement (220-pound class) – 4th (325 lb squat, 125 lb bench, 245 lb deadlift = 695 lb total)

Juliette Sewell (105-pound class) – 6th (170 lb squat, 105 lb bench, 190 lb deadlift = 465 lb total)

 

 

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Benton 11, Cedar Creek 1 (Monday)

Benton scored early and pulled away with a big third inning to defeat Cedar Creek 11-1 on Monday.

Benton opened the scoring in the first inning on a groundout that plated a run, then broke the game open in the third with five runs on four hits. A dropped third strike brought in a run before RBI doubles highlighted the inning, along with a bases-loaded walk and a sacrifice fly to extend the lead.

Cedar Creek’s lone run came behind an RBI from Hydi Boyd, who finished 1-for-2 at the plate. Presley Wall also added a hit for the Lady Cougars.

Ava Lantrip took the loss for Cedar Creek, allowing nine runs — seven earned — on seven hits over 3 1/3 innings. She struck out two and walked three.

Benton’s starting pitcher earned the win, surrendering one run on two hits across five innings while striking out five and walking three.

Benton finished with 10 hits, led by four different players with multiple hits. 

Cedar Creek will host the Caroline Menzina Memorial Tournament today and Saturday. The Lady Cougars play today at 6 p.m. vs. Simpson and Saturday vs. Downsville at 10 a.m. and Caddo Magnet at 4 p.m. 

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West Monroe 10, Ruston 0 (Tuesday)

West Monroe jumped out early and never looked back, defeating Ruston 10-0 on Tuesday at Ruston Dixie Softball.

West Monroe took control in the first inning when Ava West launched a two-run home run to center field. The Rebels extended the lead in the second, capitalizing on a Ruston error that scored two runs, while Bella Costello added an RBI on a lineout and Evie West followed with an RBI double.

West Monroe pushed the advantage to 8-0 in the third on an RBI triple by Aubree Norl, then added two more runs in the fourth on Ava West’s second two-run homer of the game.

West Monroe’s pitching kept Ruston in check throughout. West earned the win in the circle, allowing just two hits over five shutout innings while striking out six and walking two.

Skylar Bowers took the loss for Ruston, surrendering five runs on two hits in 1 1/3 innings with three walks. Mackenzie Roach provided relief, pitching 3 2/3 innings and allowing five runs — three earned — on six hits, while striking out five and walking one.

Aubrey Stoehr and Bowers each recorded a hit for Ruston.

West Monroe finished with multiple contributors at the plate, led by Ava West, who went 2-for-2 with four RBIs. Norl also collected two hits in the victory. The Rebels were solid defensively, turning a double play and committing no errors, with Parker Burford leading the way with seven chances.

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ASH 12, Ruston 11 (Thursday)

Despite outhitting Alexandria, Ruston fell just short in a 12-11 loss to the Trojans on Thursday at Alexandria Senior High School.

Ruston finished with 12 hits, led by Akeriah Jones with three, but could not overcome a seven-run deficit after the third inning. The Bearcats mounted a late rally, stringing together runs on a walk, consecutive singles, a popout, a groundout and an error to close the gap.

Ruston struck first in the opening inning when Sage Tolar delivered an RBI single. Alexandria answered in the bottom half, taking a 3-1 lead on a two-run triple by Mattie Bernard and a run scored on a wild pitch.

The Trojans added to their lead in the second behind a walk by Anniston Fairbanks and an RBI double from Sophie Hagan before breaking the game open in the third. Alexandria scored six runs on seven hits in the inning, highlighted by a two-run double from Hagan and a two-run single by Caitlyn Land.

Tolar took the loss for Ruston, allowing six runs on three hits over two innings while striking out three and walking four. Mackenzie Roach was effective in relief, tossing 3 1/3 scoreless innings, giving up one hit while striking out four without a walk.

Land earned the win for Alexandria, allowing nine runs — eight earned — on 11 hits over 4 1/3 innings, with two strikeouts and three walks.

Rylee Fobbs and Jayla Spears each drove in two runs for Ruston, while Tolar and Roach recorded multiple hits.

Alexandria finished with 10 hits, paced by Hagan, who went 2-for-3 with four RBIs. Marlie Fletcher also added two hits for the Trojans, who drew five walks and turned a double play.

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FCCS 8, Choudrant 2 (Tuesday)

Family Community Christian used a late surge to pull away from Choudrant for an 8-2 victory on Tuesday.

Choudrant took an early lead in the second inning, scoring on an error. The Lady Aggies held that advantage until the fifth, when Family Community Christian rallied to take control. Marlee Allen drove in a run on a groundout before Madison Hesser and AK Walker followed with RBI singles to give the Warriors the lead for good.

Addison Worley delivered a strong performance in the circle despite the loss, striking out 16 batters over seven innings. She allowed eight runs — just one earned — on seven hits while walking two. Worley also led Choudrant at the plate, going 2-for-4 with an RBI.

Walker earned the win for Family Community Christian, giving up two runs — one earned — on seven hits over seven innings. She struck out three and walked four.

Walker paced the Warriors offensively, going 2-for-4 with three RBIs. Lexi Casiday also collected two hits, while Hesser added speed on the bases with two stolen bases as part of a four-steal effort. Family Community Christian also turned a double play in the field.

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Choudrant 15, Union 0 (Thursday)

Choudrant erupted for eight runs in the first inning and cruised to a 15-0 victory over Forest High School on Thursday.

Choudrant capitalized on early opportunities in the opening frame, using a mix of patience and timely hitting. An error brought in the first run before Kelsee Guillotte added an RBI single. Consecutive bases-loaded walks by Madison McDaniel and Brylea Diffey forced in two more runs, and Audrey Holbron followed with a two-run single. Addison Worley capped the inning with a two-run single to make it 8-0.

The Lady Aggies extended their lead in the third inning on a fielder’s choice by Guillotte and a sacrifice fly from Kennedi Otwell, then added five more runs in the fourth. Emery Boggs highlighted the inning with an RBI double, while Maddy Boyd contributed a two-run single.

Otwell was dominant in the circle, allowing just one hit over four shutout innings while striking out nine and walking none.

Forest’s Olivia Clack took the loss, surrendering 15 runs — four earned — on 10 hits across four innings, with two strikeouts and seven walks.

Choudrant finished with 10 hits, led by Boggs and Holbron with two each. Guillotte drove in three runs, while the Lady Aggies also showed patience at the plate with seven walks. Lynlee Garrett and Otwell each drew two walks, and Guillotte added two stolen bases as part of a four-steal effort.

Makynlan Turnbow recorded the lone hit for Forest, which also turned a double play.

Choudrant travels to Glenbrook for its next game Monday.

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By Kyle Roberts

RUSTON — It was a dominating effort on all fronts.

Ruston High’s (15-8) offense erupted in the middle innings, while junior Tyler Roach delivered another steady outing on the mound as the Bearcats rolled past ASH 9-1 on Thursday.

After a quiet start, Ruston broke through in the third inning when junior JP Moak tripled home a run, an error brought in another, and junior Sam Hartwell added a two-run double to push the Bearcats in front 4-0 where they would take the lead for good.

From there, Ruston settled into its rhythm — something head coach Bryan Beck said starts with confidence and a clear identity at the plate.

“Man, what can you say about our kids? They’re confident right now. They’re playing really good,” Beck said. “Anytime you get a start from your ace, Tyler Roach, you know there are opportunities to be patient offensively. That’s what we did, and then we had that breakout inning.”

Roach made that approach hold up. The right-hander went the distance, allowing four hits and just one unearned run over seven innings while striking out four and walking one.

With Roach controlling the game, Ruston’s lineup began to apply steady pressure — working counts, getting on base, and capitalizing on ASH miscues.

“We’re just trying to be very tough outs. That’s our style of baseball,” Beck said. “Work counts, get on base any way possible, put the ball in play and see if they can make plays. When that pressure builds, you look up and you’ve got traffic on the bases and good hitters coming up.”

Moak and senior Jackson Lee led the way with two hits apiece at the top of the lineup, while Hartwell drove in two runs and continued his strong stretch in the middle of the order.

“Sam Hartwell is a big part of the middle of our lineup, and he’s on fire for us right now,” Beck said. “When he gets on base, he’s incredibly fast and smart. We’ve got a lot of good things going.”

Ruston also created havoc on the bases, swiping seven steals and turning a double play defensively to support Roach’s effort.

The Bearcats will look to carry that momentum into Friday’s road matchup in Alexandria as they continue district play.

“We talk about winning the week, winning the series,” Beck said. “We got one tonight, but the week’s not over. We’ve got to go down there tomorrow and be very competitive.”

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by Malcolm Butler

Cedar Creek head coach Chad Yates knew his team was much better than what it showed in a road loss at Ouachita Christian earlier in the week.

And on Thursday night, the Cougars (17-3) showed it.

Cedar Creek used a seven-run third inning to run past Haynesville 10-0 in a run-rule shortened contest. 

“We had a rough one Tuesday over at OCS,” said Yates. “I felt like we competed well on the mound, but we left eight on base and made some errors. Tonight we wanted to come back and play aggressively.  We came out and swung it and responded really well. That’s all I can ask for.”

Junior southpaw Kade Luker got the nod on the mound for Creek. The LSU commit had to overcome some first inning stress that saw the Golden Tornados load the bases thanks to a single — the only hit of the game — sandwiched around a pair of walks.

However, Luker recorded three of his nine strikeouts in the frame to get out of the early-game jam. 

“Kade wasn’t crisp. He wasn’t sharp,” said Yates. “But he is still good enough. It’s always good when he is out there.”

Miller Tony got the start for Haynesville and kept the Cougars off the board in the first. 

“I had never seen the Tony kid pitch,” said Yates. “We heard they had a good arm, and he was electric. He had good stuff and a good breaking ball. We were able to do some things on the bases to put ourselves in a position to get some runs.”

Creek took a 2-0 lead in the second inning. Noah Smith drove in Ryan Coleman with the first run of the game on an RBI single up the middle and then Smith scored on a sacrifice fly by Drew Wade. 

The Cougars unloaded in the third inning, plating seven runs on four hits while also capitalizing on an error, a walk and an HBP. Conner Nichols had a two-run single to right field to make the score 4-0 and Jax Doiron added a two-run single up the middle. 

Wade picked up his second RBI of the game on a sacrifice bunt followed by a sacrifice bunt RBI by Eli Slocum. Luker drove in the final run of the inning on an RBI double down the right field line to make the score 9-0.

Luker worked 4.0 innings on the mound, allowing no runs on one hit with three walks and nine strikeouts. 

Cedar Creek upped the advantage to 10-0 on a two-out RBI double to left field by Smith in the bottom of the fourth inning.

Brett Bell came on in relief of Luker and pitched a perfect fifth inning, including a pair of strikeouts.

“That was the first time we have had Brett on the mound since Calvary Baptist at the first of the year,” said Yates. “He really didn’t bounce back well after that start, and for what he does for us behind the dish, we just didn’t push it. We have been bullpening him and keeping him ready. We wanted to try to get him back on the dish tonight.”

Cedar Creek will play Arcadia and Lincoln Prep in a pair of makeup games on Saturday. The Cougars will then start the three-game district championship series against Glenbrook next Wednesday at Creek for Game 1. The second and if-necessary game will be played Thursday at Glenbrook. 

“We feel like we are in a good spot,” said Yates. “We just need to keep swinging and keep playing hard and doing our thing.”

 

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By T. Scott Boatright

 

The Simsboro Tigers scored two runs in the bottom of the first inning Thursday night against Castor.

And that would be all the offense Simsboro needed considering the mixture of smoke and curveballs junior pitcher Cade Barmore was hurling early on.

But that didn’t stop the Tigers from continuing to swing the bats as they earned an 11-1 10-run rule win over Castor in five innings on the SHS baseball field.

After Barmore earned his first strikeout in the top half of the opening stanza, Simsboro scored a pair of runs in bottom half of the inning after Chris Harrell tripled in leadoff batter Max Lee, who had been hit by a pitch to reach first base and then stole second.

Braylon Gibson followed with an RBI double to put the Tigers up 2-0 heading into the second inning.

Then Barmore went to work, forcing a groundout to start that inning before striking out the next Castor batters.

Barmore continued his early dominance in the top half of the third inning before Simsboro added three more runs in the bottom half of that stanza to build a 5-0 advantage heading into the fourth inning.

“He didn’t play last year,” Simsboro coach Scott Hiers said of Barmore. “So, he’s still learning. He’s come a long way and is a really good kid. The fact he’s filling up the strike zone and only giving up one or two walks per game shows the progress he’s making. He gives our defense a chance to win games.”

But Barmore momentarily got off track to start the fourth after a throwing error allowed the leadoff Castor batter to reach first. 

A single advanced that baserunner to second before that player scored on a single that he ran past third and headed home.

It was a close play at the plate, but a bobbled catch allowed the baserunner to score and cut the Simsboro lead to 5-1 before the Tigers pulled off a double play and then put out a Castor baserunner between third and home on an unassisted play by Barmore.

“I was going to take him out after the next inning, but he just kept cool and kept on working,” Hiers said of Barmore. “But he did his job. He did what he’s supposed to do, and that’s all I can ask, so I kept him in.”

Simsboro added three more runs in the bottom of the fourth thanks in part to four walks given up by Castor, with a sacrifice fly by Chris Harrell and a two-RBI by Noah Thomas accounting for those scores.

After Barmore recorded two more strikeouts in the top of the fifth inning, Simsboro pinch hitter Michael Watts walked, reached second on a passed ball and then advanced to third on a wild pitch.

“He (Watts) is just a junior so I just put him in to get some more experience,” Hiers said. “We’re going to be counting on next year so any chance I get to put him in there I try to do it.”

When Simsboro’s Chris Stevens was hit by a pitch to put two runners on base, Harrell’s two-RBI single pushed the Tigers’ lead to 10-1.

Gibson then blasted a single to allow Harrell to score his second run of the contest and give the walkoff win to the Tigers on the 10-run rule.

Barmore went the distance on the mound for Simsboro, giving up one unearned run on only two Castor hits while finishing with seven strikeouts.

Gibson led Simsboro batters, going 3-for-3 at the plate with two RBIs and a walk while Harrell went 2-of-3 with four runs batted in.

Thomas batted 1-of-3 for the Tigers with two RBIs and one run while DJ Cedotal added another run batted in for Simsboro.

But maybe the biggest stat contributing to Simsboro’s win was 10 stolen bases.

“In big games, close games, stolen bases are important,” Hiers said. “In games like this, where the catcher is over two seconds getting the throw to second, it’s about getting better at doing it. It’s just making sure you get the right leads because you know you have a good chance of being safe.

The win pushed Simsboro to 16-6 overall while evening the Tigers’ district record at 1-1.

“Playing like they did tonight is good for the players’ confidence,” Hiers said. “You’d like to do it with a little more enthusiasm, a little more sense of urgency, but you can’t have that every game.”

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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 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

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Saturday, March 28
9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Farmers Market
10 am. – 11 a.m. No Kings Rally – Railroad Park, 101 E. Park Ave, Ruston, LA
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
6:30 a.m.: Veterans free breakfast (VFW Post 3615, 206 Memorial Dr.)
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
10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.: Book signing with local author Kathy Crowder (Rolling Hills Ministry Books and Coffee, 1103 Farmerville Hwy., Ruston)
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
3-6 p.m.: Self-guided Good Friday tour experiencing Jesus’s steps (Temple Baptist Church, Family Life Center Gym)

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.

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Hotels charge premium prices, and many desperate people had to pay a “black market bonus” of $100 just to make a hotel reservation.  Adjusted for inflation, that would be over $1,200 in today’s money.  Some of Washington’s “old families” rented out their luxury homes to millionaires and their friends for up to $3,000 for the week.  That would be nearly $37,000 in today’s money.  60 special trains set up “Pullman Cities,” named after the 600 Pullman parlor and sleeper train cars which accommodated about 10,000 visitors.  Forty steam locomotives kept constant “full heads of steam” to provide heat and hot water for the Pullman cities.  The accommodation committee set up for the purpose of housing the influx of visitors to our nation’s capital referred to it as Operation Headache.       

Rather than paying exorbitant fees and fighting the maddening crowds, most people chose to watch the inauguration from the comfort of their own homes.  It was broadcast on all three major television networks: ABC, CBS, and NBC.  An estimated 29 million people tuned in throughout the day for at least part of the inauguration.

President Eisenhower’s inauguration should have been the highest rated program on television during that era, but it was overshadowed by a regularly scheduled television sitcom shown the night before which depicted something that has happened to every living human being—a child was born.  More than 70% of American households, some 44 million people, 15 million more than watched the inauguration, watched the 30-minute sitcom which aired on CBS, a single network.  It remains one of the most watched sitcoms in television history.  The episode was filmed two months earlier and starred an actress who was really pregnant, a first for television.  This comedy showed the fictional chaos that happened leading up to the actress having a baby.  The actress in the sitcom went into labor and had a son, named after his father, on the day the episode aired.  The episode was titled “Lucy Goes to the Hospital” and starred Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz.

Sources:

1.      The Mail (Adelaide, Australia), January 17, 1953, p.23.

2.     Press-Telegram (Long Beach, California), January 20, 1953, p.3.

3.     The Roanoke Times, January 21, 1953, p.18.

4.     “Inaugurations: 1953 Inauguration,” Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library, National Archives, accessed March 15, 2026, https://www.eisenhowerlibrary.gov/eisenhowers-presidential-years/inaugurations.

5.     “Lucy Goes to the Hospital,” IMDb.com, accessed March 15, 2026, https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0609259/.

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.

Mary Ann Woods 
October 31, 1931  –  March 23, 2026 
Visitation: Friday, March 27, 2026, 11:30AM – 1:00PM, Trinity Methodist Church, 1000 Woodward Avenue  
Service: Friday, March 27, 2026, 1:00PM, Trinity Methodist Church, 1000 Woodward Avenue 
Final Resting Place: Kilpatrick’s Memorial Gardens, 1270 Highway 544, Ruston 

Russell Allen Farrar 
May 11, 1941  –  March 23, 2026 
Visitation: Friday, March 27, 2026, 5:00PM – 7:00PM, Kilpatrick Funeral Homes 
Service: Saturday, March 28, 2026, 2:00PM, First Baptist Church Bernice, 502 Cherry Street, Bernice 
Final Resting Place: Union Grove, 650 Bud Farrar Rd, Lillie 

Martha Jean Jones Edmiston 
July 17, 1939  –  March 21, 2026 
Final Resting Place: Mount Zion Cemetery, Mount Zion Rd, Clay 

Terry Wayne Lee  
Monday 01/01/1962 — Friday 03/20/2026   
Visitation: Friday 03/27/2026 3:00pm to 6:00pm at King’s Funeral Home  
Celebration of Life: Saturday 03/28/2026 1:00pm at King’s Funeral Home  
Interment: Saturday 03/28/2026 Following Service, Pleasant Grove Cemetery, Bowden Road, Ruston (Clay)   

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