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Month: April 2026
Daily puzzles
Local events
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.
Wednesday, April 15
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 16
11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Kiwanis Club lunch and program (Trinity Methodist Church fellowship hall)
1 p.m.: Ribbon cutting celebrating Adala Health (902 S. Vienna St.)
4 p.m.: Tween Time (Lincoln Parish Library)
5 p.m.: Library Board of Control meeting (Lincoln Parish Library)
6 p.m.: Climbing Everest with guest speaker John Kyte (Lincoln Parish Library)
6 p.m.: Southern A’Chord Chorus rehearsal (Presbyterian Church fellowship hall, 212 N. Bonner St.; open to all women singers)
6:30 p.m.: Books and Bites Book Club (Lincoln Parish Library; registration required by calling 318-513-5510)
7 p.m.: Ruston Community Theatre presents “Murder on the Nile”
Friday, April 17
1 p.m.: GSU softball
1 p.m.: Ribbon cutting celebrating Adala Health (902 S. Vienna St., Ruston)
4 p.m.: Family Fun Friday (Lincoln Parish Library)
6 p.m.: LA Tech softball
6 p.m.: GSU baseball
7 p.m.: Ruston Community Theatre presents “Murder on the Nile”
Saturday, April 18
USSSA Softball: St. Jude Classic (Ruston Sports Complex)
9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Farmers Market
Noon: GSU softball
2 p.m.: GSU softball
2 p.m.: LA Tech softball
3 p.m.: GSU baseball
6-9 p.m.: India Night (For tickets, call 682-321-9914 or 318-957-9298) (Louisiana Tech)
7 p.m.: Ruston Community Theatre presents “Murder on the Nile”
Sunday, April 19
USSSA Softball: St. Jude Classic (Ruston Sports Complex)
11 a.m.: LA Tech softball
Noon: GSU baseball
2 p.m.: Ruston Community Theatre presents “Murder on the Nile”
Monday, April 20
11:30 a.m.: Lunch on Us (Presbyterian Church, 212 North Bonner Street., Ruston) — everyone welcome
5:30 p.m.: Ruston Planning and Zoning meeting (Ruston City Hall)
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 21
6:30 a.m.: Veterans free breakfast (VFW Post 3615, 206 Memorial Dr.)
10 a.m.: Storytime (Lincoln Parish Library)
Noon: Ouachita Strummers Mountain Dulcimer Concert (Lincoln Parish Library)
4 p.m.: Crafternoon (Lincoln Parish Library)
6 p.m.: Video-led exercise class (Lincoln Parish Library)
Wednesday, April 22
Earth 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 23
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.: Tween/Teen Time (Lincoln Parish Library)
Friday, April 24
6 p.m.: LA Tech baseball
Saturday, April 25
8 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Master Gardeners spring plant sale (The Bridge Community Center, 2301 N. Trenton St.)
9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Farmers Market
2 p.m.: LA Tech baseball
Sunday, April 26
1 p.m.: LA Tech baseball
For the latest local news, subscribe FOR FREE to the Lincoln Parish Journal and receive an email each weekday morning at 6:55 right to your inbox. Just CLICK HERE to sign up.
Remembering George R. Soto, Jr.
George R. (Butch) Soto, Jr., was born in Ruston, Louisiana on April 19, 1946, to parents Marcil Edmiston Soto and George R. Soto, Sr., and left this earth on April 12, 2026, at the age of 79 years – one week shy of his 80th birthday. He was preceded in death by his parents; his grandson, James Adam Isaac; numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and other family members and friends.
Surviving Butch are his wife of 41 ½ years, Shirley Colvin Soto; sons, George R. (Tray) Soto, III (Darnie), Trent Dion Soto (Monica); daughter, Teresa Soto Fiedjor (Israel); stepson, Danny Jarmon; stepdaughter, Laurie Colvin (Tim); sister, Lenora (Chinkie) Pyles (Arnold); brother, Tony Soto (Mary); and the mother of his children, Elaine Atkins. Grandchildren include: Trayson Hargrove, Serenity Soto, Shiloh Soto, Macy Dover (John), Megan Jarmon, Malarie Jarmon, Colby Jarmon, Emily Colvin, Sadie Jinks (Mason), and Beau Palmer. Great grandchildren include: Romaya Hargrove, Emersyn Dover, Ellis Dover, and ‘soon to arrive’ Hogan Jarmon. Other survivors include brothers-in-law’s, Mike Colvin and Eddie Colvin (Debbie); along with a large group of family members and friends.
Butch proudly served in the United States Air Force for nearly eight years during the Vietnam War. After enlisting, he spent four years stationed in England, followed by one year in Thailand. He completed his military service with assignments in South Carolina and Arizona. After discharge from the military, he returned to Ruston where he became a firefighter and EMT. Butch drove 18-wheelers for several years, covering many miles, for several different companies. He then went to work for, and retired from, Fibrebond, designing and building concrete buildings.
Butch was an exceptionally talented woodworker, building gun cabinets (on which he etched the glass fronts), deer stands, bookcases, toy boxes, video cabinets, duck blinds, taxidermy mounting stands, and many other things.
Funeral services for Butch will be held at 3:00 PM, Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at Salem Church in Dubach, LA, located at 11793 Highway 151, with Pastor Stephen Nutt and special friend John Roebuck officiating. Burial will follow in Salem Cemetery under the direction of Owens Memorial Chapel Funeral Home. Visitation will be held from 1:30 PM until the time of service at Salem Church.
Pallbearers will be George R. (Tray) Soto III, Trayson Hargrove, Serenity Soto, Danny Jarmon, Colby Jarmon, and David Miller.
The family would like to extend our thanks to the staff of Best Home Health and Premier Hospice, especially nurse, LaQuasha Huey, for the kindness shown to all of us and especially to our precious Butch. We were also blessed with a group of caregivers who quickly became family, including Remunda Ethridge, David Miller, CaRhonda Nickson, and Debbie Williams. Many thanks to you all.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the charity of your choice.
Notice of death — April 14, 2026
Ashlynn Jonette Shell
June 14, 1964 – April 10, 2026
Visitation: Thursday, April 16, 2026, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM, Owens Memorial Chapel
Memorial service: Thursday, April 16, 2026, 2:00 PM, Owens Memorial Chapel
Nicholas “Nick” Jordan Donald
September 19, 1986 – April 9, 2026
Visitation: Wednesday, April 15, 2026, 12:00PM – 1:00PM, Grace Pointe Baptist Church, 3400 Forsythe Avenue, Monroe
Service: Wednesday, April 15, 2026, 1:00PM, Grace Pointe Baptist Church, 3400 Forsythe Avenue, Monroe
City of Ruston receives new “eye in the sky”
by Wesley Harris
The Ruston Police Department took delivery of its highly anticipated unmanned aerial vehicle, informally known as a drone, Monday.
The drone, which was lifted to the top of City Hall by a huge crane, will be launched to provide “eyes and ears” at critical scenes and provide live information to responding police officers and firefighters.
The drone is part of Police Chief Eric Watson’s plan to establish a real-time intelligence center that will collect video from fixed cameras at local businesses, police officer body cameras, license plate readers, and other information sources to help police locate suspects and solve crimes quickly.
In October, RPD, along with Mayor Ronny Walker, Ruston Fire officials, and others viewed a live demonstration of the “Drone as a First Responder” (DFR) program—an innovative technology designed to enhance community safety and improve officer effectiveness.
RPD said the demonstration marked the beginning of a pilot program to provide dispatchers and first responders with real-time situational awareness during critical incidents. By integrating drone technology into emergency response, the RPD aims to strengthen its ability to respond quickly, safely, and efficiently.
Chief Watson has touted the DFR in a number of community meetings since joining the department in March 2025. He described scenarios where the DFR would provide information from the scene of a critical incident before officers can reach the location such as location of a shooter or a fleeing suspect.
Mayor Ronny Walker said the drone can be used by other city departments such as the fire department and utilities department.
Walker said the drone can reach the scene of a reported fire in seconds, allowing RFD to make quick decisions on how many vehicles and fire fighters need to be sent to the scene.
“It will be an asset to the fire department to know if there’s a bit of smoke showing or if the house is fully engulfed in flames,” Walker said. “That makes decisions on how many resources to send to the scene easier.”
The drone can also respond to emergencies involving hazardous materials, allowing RFD to assess the situation from a safe distance.
Watson said the drone would have been invaluable during the ice storm earlier this year when first responders had difficulty reaching the scenes of some emergencies.
“We hope to implement this program based on proven successes in other jurisdictions that have pioneered the DFR model,” Watson said in October. “The data is clear—deploying a drone to a 911 call as a first responder can dramatically reduce overall response times and increase both officer and community safety.”
When a 911 call is received for a high-priority incident, a dispatcher can deploy the drone from the launch site, sending it to the scene in seconds, or at the most, a few minutes—often before officers arrive on the ground.
The drone is operated from department headquarters, streaming live video and other critical data directly to responding officers. This allows officers to make better-informed decisions before arriving on scene.
The device is equipped with features not found on the typical low-cost civilian-use drone. The DFR is equipped with flood lights, a loudspeaker, an audible warning device, and has the capability to transport items such as first aid equipment to a location.
The information gathered can assist in locating missing persons or fleeing suspects, assessing vehicle crashes, documenting crime scenes, or providing eyes on potentially dangerous situations without risk to officers.
For example, the DFR could be used for up-close communication with a hostage taker, to safely examine a suspicious device without getting too close, or locate an active shooter.
Watson calls the drone a “force multiplier,” allowing a smaller group of staff to accomplish more than a much larger force by employing a technology to achieve the same result as a much larger force that lacks the technology.
Mayor Walker said he sees value in the program.
“This is another case of the City trying to work smarter than harder,” Walker said. “This allows our police and fire departments or any city department to know what they’re facing before they ever reach the scene.”
Watson said training will take place in the coming days to teach personnel when and how to use it.
The DFR system is made by BRINC, a company formed in response to the 2017 Las Vegas shooting in which 60 people were killed. BRINC has deployed its drones in 900 public safety agencies globally.
The city gets to utilize the drone in Year No. 1 for free as part of the pilot program and then can decide if it wishes to continue for an additional four years at a total cost of around $400,000. That cost would be split between the RPD and the Ruston Fire Department, divided based on utilization in the first year.
“I have vowed to Mayor Walker that we will be fiscally responsible,” said Watson. “If we don’t believe it is worth it after the first year, we won’t continue.”
LPPJ agenda set for Tuesday’s monthly meeting
The Lincoln Parish Police Jury will hold its monthly meeting tonight (Tuesday, April 14) at the Police Jury Meeting Room at 100 West Texas Avenue in Ruston. It is open to the public. Agendas are below for both the Public Works Committee meeting (5:30 p.m.) and the regular LPPJ meeting (6 p.m.).
Ruston PD detective helps in online predator operation in Shreveport
by Wesley Harris
The Louisiana Internet Crimes Against Children ICAC Task Force, led by the Louisiana Bureau of Investigations, conducted multi-agency training focused on tracking down online predators in Shreveport last week.
LBI is overseen by the Office of the Louisiana Attorney General.
Agencies participating in the training and the subsequent operation were Shreveport Police, Ruston Police, Bossier Sheriff’s Office, Bossier City Police, Pineville Police, Minden Police, Livingston Sheriff’s Office, Bienville Sheriff’s Office, and Homeland Security Investigations.
Following the training, investigators immediately put those skills to work in a targeted operation in the Shreveport area.
Lieutenant Kayla Loyd, an investigator with Ruston PD, participated in the training and subsequent operation. Both RPD and the Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s Office are members of the task force.
In a statement, the Office of the Attorney General said, “Let’s be clear — this type of work is tough, it’s uncomfortable, and it’s absolutely necessary. The individuals our investigators deal with in these cases are predators targeting children, and there is zero tolerance for that in our community.”
Arrested in the operation on April 11 were John Michael Fletcher, 42, and Mark Steven Longino, 63, for computer-aided solicitation of a minor for sexual purposes and indecent behavior with a juvenile.
George Simmons, 51, was arrested for indecent behavior with a juvenile.
More arrests are expected as a result of the operation.
Ruston Police Chief Eric Watson recently approved RPD’s membership on the task force
“The Ruston Police Department gladly assisted in this operation as a member of the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force,” Watson said. “RPD looks forward to other opportunities to work with the ICAC task force and these agencies in making our state safer for our children.”
“We are incredibly proud of the officers and agents who do this work,” the Office of the Attorney General said. “It’s not glamorous—but it matters and saves kids.”
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.
Cowboy Up: Creek’s Carter Perry signs rodeo scholarship
by Malcolm Butler
Carter Perry has ridden horses for as long as he can remember.
And the Cedar Creek senior will continue to do so, at least for the next four years.
On Monday, Carter signed a scholarship to join the rodeo team at Southern Arkansas University in Magnolia.
“I have ridden horses since I was born,” said Carter, who has attended Cedar Creek since pre-K. “I started getting competitive around 10 or 11. I enjoy the lifestyle.”
Decked out in blue jeans, boots, a belt buckle, and a Cowboy hat, Carter looked the part as he signed on the dotted line at the Cedar Creek Library Monday afternoon.
“We are really excited to have Carter,” said SAU head rodeo coach Rusty Hayes, who has been at the helm of the program for more than 20 years. “We have a long history of a rodeo program. We are really into the team ropers. Carter fits really well into what we do at Southern Arkansas.
“We are excited for his future and what it can do for him and what he can do for us. We are looking forward to it.”
Carter is currently ranked in the Top 15 in the world (ages 14-19) in team roping and tie-down roping. Some of his other accomplishments include the 2025 Louisiana High School reserve champion heeler, the 2025 Clay Logan Open champion header, the Junior Patriot qualifier heeler and header, the 2024 state finals qualifier header and tie-down roper.
Carter, who said he plans to major in agricultural business, said he is appreciative of the opportunity after first contacting Coach Hayes last summer.
“I want to thank Coach Rusty for allowing me this opportunity to continue my rodeo career,” said Carter. “I want to thank Cedar Creek for allowing me to pursue my dreams and to attend events throughout the school year and to my parents for allowing me to be the best that I can be.”
Other rodeo accomplishments include the 2023 National Little Britches Rodeo Association average champion+reserve world champion header and the 2022 National Little Britches Rodeo Association reserve world champion all around cowboy and breakaway roper.
Carter’s mom, Stephanie, addressed those who gathered to support her son.
“We are very proud of him,” said Stephanie. “We are very grateful for Coach Rusty and Southern Arkansas University for allowing him to be a part of his team. I did a lot of praying on where he would go. I wanted him to be close to home, but I also wanted him to be somewhere where he would fit. I think this is a good fit for him.”
Carter said he expects to specialize in one area of rodeo during his time at SAU.
“I team rope which is specific event in rodeo,” said Carter. “Southern Arkansas focuses more on team ropers. That’s where I fit best.
“I have won all through my junior rodeo years.”
Professor placed on leave, charged with trespassing
A Grambling State University employee on administrative leave and barred from entering the campus was arrested Tuesday after she repeatedly returned to the campus without permission.
Dr. Jesica Williams, 41, of Bossier City, was arrested April 7 after she returned to the campus for the third time while on administrative leave in connection with an ongoing investigation.
A GSU police report said she was told on March 26 that she was being placed on administrative leave due to the investigation with instructions that she was not to return to the campus.
On April 7 at about 8:20 a.m., officers responded to Long-Jones Hall regarding Williams being on the campus. William told an officer she was unaware she was not allowed on campus. However, she had been given a letter that read in part that “while on administrative leave, you cannot come on campus, perform work, or access work email or systems.”
An officer pointed out that she had signed the letter. She was placed under arrest for criminal trespass by entering the premises without permission and booked at the Lincoln Parish Detention Center.
A GSU faculty roster indicates Williams has been an assistant professor of chemistry since August 2025.
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.
COLUMN: Between the empty tomb and understanding
If we were living in the first century, it would now be nine days after Jesus’ resurrection.
This past week – here in the 21st century – I’ve found myself examining the events that transpired during that time frame 2,000 years ago and trying to apply them to our lives today.
First, of course, came the early morning of Day 1. The women, including Mary Magdalene, found the tomb empty. Later that day, other disciples came to the tomb as well, and Mary Magdalene, weeping there after she returned, didn’t recognize Jesus when he first appeared to her.
As the day progressed, Jesus continued to appear – first to two disciples on the road to Emmaus, who recognized him only after he broke bread with them, and then that evening to the disciples behind locked doors. In that later event, Jesus stood among them, offering peace and showing his hands and side.
So, in that one day, sorrow began to give way to belief, even if everything did not yet make sense.
Between that day and Day 8, which would have been yesterday, the disciples remained together, processing events, and on that eighth day, another incredible incident occurred. Jesus appeared to the disciples again – this time including Thomas, who had outspokenly expressed his doubts earlier and who now accepted the Savior’s invitation to “Put your finger here.” Thomas’ response? “My Lord and my God!”
Other sightings and experiences occurred over the next 40 days, such as: by the Sea of Galilee, where there was a miraculous catch of fish with a breakfast prepared by the Son of God; an event where more than 500 people were gathered; and finally, the day the Great Commission was given and Jesus ascended into heaven. Woven into these encounters, Jesus spoke about the kingdom of God and opened the disciples’ understanding of scripture.
Now, two millennia later, it’s hard to look at those days without seeing pieces of ourselves in them. Not just in the awe and wonder, but in the confusion, the hesitation and the slow, sometimes uneven movement toward belief. Those first witnesses to the resurrection weren’t standing on solid ground yet. They were just feeling their way forward, one moment at a time.
Mary stood there, looking straight at Jesus, and still didn’t recognize him at first. That moment alone says a lot about how easily we can overlook what’s right in front of us.
The two on the road to Emmaus spent hours walking and talking with him. Understanding didn’t come instantly. It unfolded later, after the fact.
The disciples gathered behind locked doors, unsure and unsettled. Jesus came into that room as it was, bringing peace into a place that needed it. He showed them his hands and side – something they could see and not mistake.
Thomas spoke what others may have been thinking. When he finally saw for himself, his response was simple and direct: “My Lord and my God.”
Even after all they had seen, they were told to wait – not to rush ahead, but to trust what would come next.
If those first disciples were still finding their footing eight days after the resurrection, then there’s hope for us, too. Faith rarely arrives full grown. It grows the way it did for them – in steps, in questions and in moments of recognition that catch us by surprise.
Maybe that’s part of the invitation for us right now: to look again, to pay attention, to notice the quiet ways Christ is already near. Because here we are, Day 8 people in a Day 8 world, still learning to see, still learning to trust – and the risen Christ keeps meeting us right where we are, one faithful step at a time.
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Sallie Rose Hollis lives in Ruston and retired from Louisiana Tech as an associate professor of journalism and the assistant director of the News Bureau. She can be contacted at sallierose@mail.com.
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.
April 14, 2026: High school softball roundup
Cedar Creek 6, Tioga 1 (Friday)
Cedar Creek’s Anslee Woods powered the Lady Cougars to a 6-1 victory over Tioga on Friday, blasting two home runs and driving in four runs.
Woods put Cedar Creek on the board in the second inning with a two-run homer to center field, giving the Lady Cougars an early 2-0 lead.
She struck again in the sixth, launching another two-run shot to center to extend Cedar Creek’s advantage to 5-1.
Sadee Williams added insurance in the seventh with a solo home run to center field to cap the scoring.
Kendall Ramsey earned the win for Cedar Creek, allowing one run on two hits over five innings while striking out three and not issuing a walk. Ava Lantrip picked up the save in relief.
Tioga’s starting pitcher went the distance, surrendering six runs on 10 hits with three strikeouts and one walk.
The Lady Cougars finished with 10 hits. Williams, Ramsey and Hydi Boyd each recorded multiple hits, while Ramsey also stole two bases.
Tioga was limited to three hits, with three different players collecting one apiece. Tioga’s No. 17 drove in the team’s lone run and finished 1 for 3 at the plate.
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Cedar Creek 10, Loreauville 2 (Saturday)
Hydi Boyd delivered a dominant performance at the plate Saturday, belting two home runs and driving in six runs to lead Cedar Creek to a 10-2 win over Loreauville.
Cedar Creek took the lead in the first inning when a run scored on a fielder’s choice off the bat of Sadee Williams for a 1-0 advantage.
The Lady Cougars added to the lead in the second as Presley Wall singled to center to make it 2-0.
Boyd broke the game open in the fourth inning with a three-run home run to center field, pushing Cedar Creek’s lead to 5-0.
After Loreauville answered with two runs, Cedar Creek pulled away in the sixth. Molly Boyd opened the inning with a solo home run to left, Hydi Boyd followed with a two-run shot to left, and another run scored on a wild pitch as the Lady Cougars stretched the margin to 9-2.
Kendall Ramsey earned the win in the circle, allowing one run on four hits over three innings while striking out six and walking one. Ava Lantrip came on in relief to record the save.
Cedar Creek finished with 11 hits. Wall set the tone from the leadoff spot, going 4 for 4, while Hydi Boyd added three hits in four at-bats.
Loreauville was led by Abigail Dorsey, who went 2 for 3 at the plate. Kamryn Gondran and Addison Dupuis each drove in a run for the Lady Tigers, who also turned a double play.
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Cedar Creek 9, OHS 7 (Saturday)
Cedar Creek survived a late rally Saturday, holding off OHS for a 9-7 victory after seeing a five-run lead trimmed in the closing innings.
The Lady Cougars struck first in the opening inning on a pair of sacrifice flies, with Ava Lantrip driving in the game’s first run.
OHS answered in the second and moved in front 3-2, taking advantage of a Cedar Creek error that brought home two runs before adding another on a steal of home.
Cedar Creek responded with a decisive third inning to reclaim control. Hydi Boyd launched a two-run home run to center field, Kendall Ramsey added a sacrifice fly, and Anslee Woods delivered an RBI double as the Lady Cougars surged ahead 6-3.
OHS mounted a late comeback, cutting the deficit to two runs with a single and a double, but Cedar Creek was able to hold on down the stretch.
Lantrip earned the win in relief, allowing four runs — only one earned — on five hits over five innings while striking out nine and walking two. Ramsey started in the circle for Cedar Creek, giving up three unearned runs on four hits over two innings with three strikeouts.
Cedar Creek finished with 11 hits. Presley Wall led the way from the leadoff spot, going 3 for 4, while Ramsey drove in a team-high three runs. Lantrip and Boyd each added multiple hits, and Boyd also drew two walks as the Lady Cougars worked five free passes overall.
OHS was paced by leadoff hitter Madee Danzy, who went 3 for 4, while Livyee Garcia added two hits. The Lady Rams played a clean defensive game without committing an error.
Cedar Creek returns home Tuesday to face Ouachita Parish.
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West Monroe 9, Ruston 8 (Thursday)
West Monroe erased a seven-run deficit and stunned Ruston with a walk-off 9-8 victory Thursday at West Monroe High School.
Trailing 8-7 entering the bottom of the seventh, the Rebels completed the comeback when Ava West blasted a two-run home run to center field, giving West Monroe the dramatic win.
Ruston appeared to be in control early, jumping out to a 4-0 lead through two innings. Z. Jones delivered an RBI single in the first to open the scoring, and Aubrey Stoehr added a sacrifice fly in the second as the Bearcats built their advantage.
The Bearcats extended the lead to 8-1 in the sixth when Stoehr connected on a two-run home run to left field.
West Monroe answered with a huge sixth inning, scoring five runs on six hits to cut the deficit to 8-6. Brylin Florentine started the rally with a solo home run to center, while Evie West and Ava West each added RBI singles. Florentine later drew a bases-loaded walk to bring home another run.
In the seventh, the Rebels tied the game on a Ruston error before Ava West’s two-run shot completed the comeback.
Mackenzie Roach took the loss for Ruston, allowing seven runs, five earned, on 10 hits over 6 2/3 innings. She struck out seven and walked eight.
West Monroe starter Ava West went 6 1/3 innings, giving up eight runs, six earned, on 10 hits with seven strikeouts and two walks.
Ruston collected 10 hits in the loss. Rylee Fobbs, Stoehr and Jones each had two hits, while Stoehr drove in a team-high three runs and finished 2 for 2 at the plate. The Bearcats also turned a double play.
West Monroe finished with 11 hits. Ava West led the Rebels both in the circle and at the plate, going 4 for 5 with three RBIs, including the game-winning homer. Florentine added two hits, and Parker Burford drew two walks as the Rebels worked eight free passes.
Ruston returns home Friday to host Minden.
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Simsboro 10, Loyola Prep 9 (Thursday)
Simsboro outlasted Loyola Prep in extra innings Thursday, securing a dramatic 10-9 walk-off victory.
The game was tied at 9 in the bottom of the eighth when Talashia Mangham was hit by a pitch with the bases loaded, forcing home the winning run and sending the Lady Tigers to the win.
Loyola Prep struck first in the opening inning, taking advantage of a Simsboro error to plate the game’s first run.
Trailing late, Simsboro rallied in the bottom of the seventh to force extra innings. Brianna Boyd drove in a run with a groundout, Gracie Wynne followed with a run-scoring triple, and Brooklynn Boyd added an RBI single to even the score.
Kailee Hamilton earned the win in relief for Simsboro, allowing four unearned runs on four hits over four innings while striking out three and walking none. Kennady King started in the circle and worked four innings, giving up five runs, two earned, on five hits with seven strikeouts.
Simsboro finished with 10 hits. Brianna Boyd and Ciara Caldwell each collected two hits, while Mangham and Wynne drove in three runs apiece from the middle of the lineup.
Loyola Prep was led by its No. 12 hitter, who went 2 for 5 with four RBIs. No. 7 also added two hits as Loyola Prep totaled nine hits in the loss.
The win capped a back-and-forth, high-scoring contest in which both teams combined for 19 runs and 19 hits.
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Quitman 12, Simsboro 1 (Saturday)
Quitman scored early and often Saturday, rolling to a 12-1 victory over Simsboro.
The Lady Wolverines broke the game open in the first inning. Hallie Kate Pullig launched a three-run home run to left field, and an additional run scored on a Simsboro error as Quitman built a quick 5-0 lead.
Quitman added three more runs in the second. Kinsley Ponder delivered a sacrifice fly that brought home two runs, and Brenna Lamkin followed with an RBI single to extend the advantage.
The Lady Wolverines kept the pressure on in the third, adding more insurance behind a sacrifice fly by Maggie Guyotte, an RBI single from Ponder and another Simsboro error.
Callie Harrison took the loss for Simsboro, allowing five runs, four earned, over two-thirds of an inning. Kennady King worked 3 1/3 innings in relief, giving up seven runs, four earned, on eight hits while striking out one.
Quitman starter Maggie Guyotte was sharp in the circle, limiting Simsboro to one run on two hits over five innings. She struck out six and did not issue a walk.
King and Kailee Hamilton accounted for Simsboro’s two hits, with King driving in the Lady Tigers’ lone run while finishing 1 for 2.
Ponder and Pullig each drove in three runs to lead Quitman’s offense. Anna Claire Leach added two hits from the leadoff spot as the Lady Wolverines collected 11 hits and stole four bases.
Quitman also played a clean defensive game without committing an error.
Simsboro returns home Monday to host Wossman.
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West Ouachita 3, Choudrant 0 (Thursday)
West Ouachita broke through in the late innings Thursday to hand Choudrant a 3-0 loss in a pitcher’s duel.
Both teams were strong in the circle, but West Ouachita came up with the timely hits to pull away.
The game remained scoreless until the bottom of the fifth inning, when McKenzie Kazmaier lifted a sacrifice fly to plate the game’s first run and give West Ouachita a 1-0 lead.
West Ouachita added two insurance runs later in the game to seal the shutout victory.
Addison Worley was solid in the circle for Choudrant, working all six innings and recording 18 outs. She allowed three runs on five hits while striking out eight and walking two.
West Ouachita starter Jaci Allbritton kept the Lady Aggies off balance, tossing three scoreless innings while allowing no hits. She struck out three and walked two.
Choudrant managed three hits in the loss, with Lynlee Garrett, Emery Boggs and Audrey Holbron each collecting one.
The Lady Aggies also turned a double play on defense.
West Ouachita totaled five hits, with Kinley Collins, Cali Smith, Kam Henley, Charley Crockett and Khloe Woodall each recording one. Kazmaier, Collins and Henley each drove in a run.
West Ouachita also played error-free defense, with Smith leading the way with eight fielding chances.
Ponderings by Doug
This morning at the dayschool, the fish tank was mysteriously covered with a blanket like it was being punished for bad behavior. If you didn’t know better, you might’ve thought the fish were grounded for talking back to the teacher or refusing to share their crayons. But no—turns out we’ve got ourselves an algae outbreak. A fullblown, green, slimy, “Swamp Thing” situation. And the only way to get it under control is to keep the light out until the bloom settles down.
Now, I’m no marine biologist, but I do know this: when the fish tank is greener than a St. Patrick’s Day parade, something’s off.
And wouldn’t you know it—Jesus has something to say about this.
Because algae, as it turns out, loves light. Not the good, lifegiving kind of light Jesus talks about. No, algae loves the “I’vebeen-left-alone-too-long-without-boundaries” kind of light. Give algae too much light, and it throws a party. Give it a little more, and it invites all its cousins. Before long, the fish are filing formal complaints and asking for relocation.
So the solution?
Cover the tank.
Limit the light.
Let things reset.
And that’s when it hit me: sometimes God does the same thing with us.
Not because we’re bad. Not because we’re in trouble. But because something in us has started growing that doesn’t belong there—resentment, worry, pride, comparison, hurry, that one comment someone made in 2009 that we still replay like it’s a classic movie.
Sometimes the Lord lovingly puts a “cover” over our tank.
A season of quiet.
A pause we didn’t choose.
A slowdown we didn’t schedule.
A moment where the lights dim and we wonder, “What is happening?”
But maybe God is simply helping us get rid of the spiritual algae that’s clouding the water.
Jesus once said, “I am the light of the world,” and He also said, “You are the light of the world.” But He never said, “You need to be under the spotlight all the time.” Sometimes the brightest thing God can do is give us a little shade so the unhealthy stuff stops multiplying.
Think about it: When was the last time you slowed down long enough to notice what was growing in you? When did you last let God filter the water of your soul?
The fish tank will be uncovered Thursday morning. The water will clear. The fish will go back to doing whatever fish do (mostly judging us through the glass). But the covering is part of the healing.
Maybe you’re in a covered tank season right now. Maybe God is dimming the lights not to punish you, but to purify you.Not to hide you, but to help you.
And when the cover comes off, you’ll shine clearer, brighter, and more beautifully than before.
Even the fish would say amen to that—if they weren’t so busy swimming in circles.
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.
Today’s weather forecast
Daily puzzles
Local events
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.
Tuesday, April 14
10 a.m.: Storytime (Lincoln Parish Library)
4 p.m.: Crafternoon (Lincoln Parish Library)
6 p.m.: Video-led exercise class (Lincoln Parish Library)
6 p.m.: LA Tech baseball
6:30 a.m.: Veterans free breakfast (VFW Post 3615, 206 Memorial Dr.)
7 p.m.: Lincoln Parish Police Jury meeting (Lincoln Parish Courthouse)
Wednesday, April 15
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 16
11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Kiwanis Club lunch and program (Trinity Methodist Church fellowship hall)
1 p.m.: Ribbon cutting celebrating Adala Health (902 S. Vienna St.)
4 p.m.: Tween Time (Lincoln Parish Library)
5 p.m.: Library Board of Control meeting (Lincoln Parish Library)
6 p.m.: Climbing Everest with guest speaker John Kyte (Lincoln Parish Library)
6 p.m.: Southern A’Chord Chorus rehearsal (Presbyterian Church fellowship hall, 212 N. Bonner St.; open to all women singers)
6:30 p.m.: Books and Bites Book Club (Lincoln Parish Library; registration required by calling 318-513-5510)
7 p.m.: Ruston Community Theatre presents “Murder on the Nile”
Friday, April 17
1 p.m.: GSU softball
1 p.m.: Ribbon cutting celebrating Adala Health (902 S. Vienna St., Ruston)
4 p.m.: Family Fun Friday (Lincoln Parish Library)
6 p.m.: LA Tech softball
6 p.m.: GSU baseball
7 p.m.: Ruston Community Theatre presents “Murder on the Nile”
Saturday, April 18
USSSA Softball: St. Jude Classic (Ruston Sports Complex)
9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Farmers Market
Noon: GSU softball
2 p.m.: GSU softball
2 p.m.: LA Tech softball
3 p.m.: GSU baseball
6-9 p.m.: India Night (For tickets, call 682-321-9914 or 318-957-9298) (Louisiana Tech)
7 p.m.: Ruston Community Theatre presents “Murder on the Nile”
Sunday, April 19
USSSA Softball: St. Jude Classic (Ruston Sports Complex)
11 a.m.: LA Tech softball
Noon: GSU baseball
2 p.m.: Ruston Community Theatre presents “Murder on the Nile”
Monday, April 20
11:30 a.m.: Lunch on Us (Presbyterian Church, 212 North Bonner Street., Ruston) — everyone welcome
5:30 p.m.: Ruston Planning and Zoning meeting (Ruston City Hall)
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 21
6:30 a.m.: Veterans free breakfast (VFW Post 3615, 206 Memorial Dr.)
10 a.m.: Storytime (Lincoln Parish Library)
Noon: Ouachita Strummers Mountain Dulcimer Concert (Lincoln Parish Library)
4 p.m.: Crafternoon (Lincoln Parish Library)
6 p.m.: Video-led exercise class (Lincoln Parish Library)
Wednesday, April 22
Earth 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 23
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.: Tween/Teen Time (Lincoln Parish Library)
Friday, April 24
6 p.m.: LA Tech baseball
Saturday, April 25
8 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Master Gardeners spring plant sale (The Bridge Community Center, 2301 N. Trenton St.)
9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Farmers Market
2 p.m.: LA Tech baseball
Sunday, April 26
1 p.m.: LA Tech baseball
For the latest local news, subscribe FOR FREE to the Lincoln Parish Journal and receive an email each weekday morning at 6:55 right to your inbox. Just CLICK HERE to sign up.
Tech Tennis earns No. 1 seed in CUSA Championships
Courtesy of LA Tech Athletic Communications
Following a 16-3 overall record and a perfect 5-0 mark in league play, Louisiana Tech earned the No. 1 seed in the upcoming 2026 Conference USA Women’s Tennis Championship, hosted by Middle Tennessee in Murfreesboro.
The Bulldogs, who advanced to the CUSA title match for the first time in program history last season, have climbed as high as No. 64 in the ITA national rankings this spring. They enter the postseason riding a four-match winning streak, with victories in 13 of their last 14 contests.
Securing the highest seed in program history since joining CUSA, LA Tech will await the winner of No. 8 WKU and No. 9 Sam Houston. The quarterfinal match is set for Thursday, April 16 at 10 a.m. CT at the Adams Tennis Complex.
LA Tech is led by junior Zoie Epps, who owns a 16-1 record in dual singles play and carries a 13-match winning streak into the tournament. Epps also teams with Isabella Walker in doubles, where the duo is currently ranked No. 69 nationally.
The Bulldogs did not face WKU during the regular season but defeated the Hilltoppers 4-0 in last year’s conference quarterfinals. LA Tech did face Sam Houston earlier this season, earning a 6-1 win on the road in Huntsville.
Tech Baseball hosts Little Rock
Courtesy of LA Tech Athletic Communications
Louisiana Tech (21-16, 9-6 CUSA) closes out a four-game homestand tonight when it hosts the Little Rock Trojans (20-16, 8-4 OVC) at the JC Love Field at Pat Patterson Park.
First pitch of the contest is set for 6 p.m. CT and the contest can be seen on ESPN+.
The meeting will be the 88th time the two sides meet since their first meeting in 1976, with the Bulldogs winning by a score of 9-0. The ‘Dogs won 7-6 over the Trojans in 2024 after seeing their three-game winning streak over Little Rock snapped in 2022, falling to the Trojans, 8-7, in Little Rock.
Tech has won 10 of the last 12 meetings when playing Little Rock on its home diamond.
The ‘Dogs have their longest winning streak of the season after notching their sixth-straight win to cap off a weekend sweep over Middle Tennessee. Tech has not seen a winning streak of at least six games since the 2025 season (Apr. 2-Apr. 12). With Tech outhitting the Blue Raiders in all three games, the Bulldogs are a perfect 19-0 when outhitting their opponents.
The Bulldogs are off to a 6-1 start in the month of April after posting a dismal 7-12 record in the month of March. Tech started the season 8-3 in the month of February.
Declan Dahl, who was named CUSA’s Pitcher of the Week for the second time on Apr. 13, fired off seven innings while fanning eight batters in Friday night’s series-opening win over the Blue Raiders. It is the second-straight start and fourth time this season to punch out at least eight opponents on the mound.
Casey McCoy had a stellar weekend at the plate, going 5-9 with a pair of homers and collecting his second career triple in the series finale.
The Trojans enter Tuesday’s matchup coming off a series loss to SIU-Edwardsville on the road this past weekend. Little Rock took a 3-0 shutout in the series opener before falling 6-2 on Saturday and 3-2 in Sunday’s rubber match.
Little Rock is just 5-6 in their last 11 games yet have won two Ohio Valley weekend series during that span. The Trojans’ 8-4 mark in league play is good to tie for the third-best record in the OVC.
Remembering Ashlynn Jonette Shell
Memorial services for Ashlynn Shell, age 61 of Ruston, LA will be held at 2:00 PM, Thursday, April 16, 2026 at Owens Memorial Chapel with Cathy Brewton and Dr. David McGee officiating. Services are under the direction of Owens Memorial Chapel Funeral Home in Ruston, LA.
Ashlynn Jonette Shell was born June 14, 1964 in Houma, LA to Jane Eloise Baker and John Edward Shell and she passed away Friday, April 10, 2026 in Shreveport, LA. When Ashlynn was younger, she was involved in 4-H, played volleyball and softball, and she rodeoed and showed her horses, Delta and T-Boy. Ashlynn graduated from Texas A&M as a Bonafide Aggie and worked as the director at RPAR. She enjoyed trips to Florida with her friends and admiring the view while on the water boating with her dog, Bella, her ever constant companion.
Ashlynn was a devoted Christian, committed to her daily devotional, whose strong faith guided her throughout her life. She had a servant’s heart and was often the first to respond when a friend or neighbor was in need, offering help, comfort, or encouragement without hesitation. Those who knew her could count on her presence and unwavering support. Ashlynn dedicated her life to providing comfort and care to her parents, a testament to her nurturing and selfless spirit.
Ashlynn is survived by her parents, Ed and Jane Baker Shell of Ruston, LA; brother, Tony Shell and wife Leah of Houston, TX; two nieces that she absolutely adored, Sydney Shell and Katie Shell of Houston, TX; her dog, Bella; and a host of extended family and friends.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to 4-Paws Rescue, 290 Rodeo Rd., Ruston, LA 71270.
Visitation will be held from 1:00 PM until service time Thursday at Owens Memorial Chapel.
Remembering Nicholas Jordan Donald
A celebration of life for Nicholas “Nick” Jordan Donald, 39, of Choudrant, Louisiana, will be held at 1:00 PM on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at Grace Point Church in Monroe, Louisiana. Officiating the service will be Pastor John Wesley Jones and Brother Eugene Brown under the direction of Kilpatrick Funeral Homes in Ruston, Louisiana.
A visitation for family and friends will be held prior to the service beginning at 12:00 PM until service time at 1:00 PM.
Nick was born on September 19, 1986, in Monroe, Louisiana, and unexpectedly passed away on April 9, 2026. He is preceded in death by his father, Francis Donald; his son, Brayden Donald; and his brother, Keith Donald. He was also preceded in death by his father-in-law, Brad Day; his maternal grandparents, Jimmie and Cliff Titcomb; and his paternal grandparents, Edna and Lavelle Donald.
Nick had a deep love for life and embraced every experience it had to offer. He was a devoted father who poured his heart into his children. Nick could often be found at countless baseball games, cheering on not only his own boys but entire teams of young athletes. Over the last year, he proudly served as the announcer for Choudrant High School baseball games, bringing energy and excitement as he “hyped up” the team and crowd alike.
He also had a lifelong love for music. Whether attending concerts or playing the drums in worship, music was woven into the fabric of who he was. He had a gift for friendship and was blessed with many lifelong friends—from his high school years, church family, coworkers, and his lively softball family from Vicious and Delicious and the broader softball community.
Above all, Nick was a good and faithful servant who loved the Lord. He never missed an opportunity to encourage others, share his faith, and point people toward Christ. While his earthly presence will be deeply missed, his family and friends find comfort in knowing he is rejoicing in the presence of the Lord.
Nick, Jordan, and the children shared a love for making memories together through travel. Whether visiting the beach, attending sporting events, or exploring new cities, their adventures were a treasured part of their lives.
He is survived by his loving wife, Jordan Donald, and their three children, Jase, Tucker, and Willow Donald. He is also survived by his mother, Martha Gail Donald; his loving aunt, Vivian Sherrie Carr; his precious mother-in-law, Sabrina Day; and his brother-in-law, Edwin Day (Kaitlyn and children). He is further survived by his siblings, Matt Averette (Kellie), Natalie Millien, Karen Fallo (Jeff), and Stevie Donald (Jessica), along with numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
Notice of death — April 13, 2026
Nicholas “Nick” Jordan Donald
September 19, 1986 – April 9, 2026
Visitation: Wednesday, April 15, 2026, 12:00PM – 1:00PM, Grace Pointe Baptist Church, 3400 Forsythe Avenue, Monroe
Service: Wednesday, April 15, 2026, 1:00PM, Grace Pointe Baptist Church, 3400 Forsythe Avenue, Monroe
Charles Preston Lutes
December 13, 1956 – April 9, 2026
Service: Tuesday, April 14, 2026, 2:00PM, First Baptist Church of Ruston, 200 S. Trenton St, Ruston
Final Resting Place: Forest Lawn Memorial Park, 2500 W California Ave (Hwy 80), Ruston
Burns has plenty of Masters highlights after 7th place finish
By DOUG IRELAND, Journal Sports
AUGUSTA, Ga. – Sam Burns equaled his best major championship finish with a tie for 7th Sunday at the Masters, hanging around the lead all weekend.
That seventh place grants him an automatic invitation to next year’s Masters, given to the top 12 finishers.
He played in the final group Saturday with tournament leader and eventual champion Rory McIlroy, and outplayed him by five shots.
He made perhaps the most spectacular putt of the tournament Sunday, holing an L-shaped 62-footer for birdie on the fabled par-3 16th hole.
While Burns played some of the best golf of his major championship career, the most important news for him came off the course. He and wife Caroline, who live in Choudrant, are going to become parents for the second time in late July. Golf Channel’s Todd Lewis broke the news to the sporting world this weekend, although some in the 318 area code were surely aware.
Burns, 29, collected $725,625 and bumped his career earnings over $36 million, to $36.7. He almost doubled his 2026 prize money to $1.98 million, earned while making the cut in five of eight tournaments, He’s been top 25 in four of those, top 10 in two.
His 9-under par (67-71-68-73) scorecard is his best in a major championship, and his second seventh-place finish in the last three majors, along with last year’s U.S. Open.
Burns, a Shreveport native and former LSU All-American, was in the penultimate pairing Sunday in front of McIlroy and third-round leader Cameron Young. Burns birdied the first hole with a 20-foot make and briefly moved into a tie for the lead.
But the next two holes were too much to overcome. Burns, who eagled the par-5 second hole Thursday, drove into trees and set off a series of shots that wound up with a double-bogey 7. On the short par 4 third hole, he drove into a greenside bunker, but took two shots to escape it and uncharacteristically missed a 5-foot par putt.
He bogeyed the 10th to dip to seven under, then birdied the par-5 13th after driving into more trees, sinking a nine-footer. Burns almost holed out on the 14th, hitting it to a foot for a second straight birdie.
On the par-5 15th, he overcame having his second shot to the angled green roll backwards into the water hazard, and salvaged par. Then came his 62-foot bomb on the 16th green that got him back to 10-under.
But another wayward drive on the 17th forced him to pitch out, and he couldn’t convert a 17-footer for par. He two-putted from 14 feet on the 18th to finish with his best score to par in a major.
His FedEx Cup ranking climbed to 24, and he rose to 33 in the Official World Golf rankings. Burns will play in the RBC Heritage this week in Hilton Head Island, S.C.