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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.

Each Monday and 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 7
3 p.m.: GSU softball
4 p.m.: LA Tech baseball
6 p.m.: LA Tech softball

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Saturday, March 8
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
Noon: LA Tech baseball
2 p.m.: LA Tech softball
2 p.m.: GSU women’s basketball
2 p.m.: LA Tech men’s basketball
4:30 p.m.: GSU men’s basketball

Sunday, March 9
Daylight Saving Time
1 p.m.: LA Tech softball
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.

Memorial services for Nancy Lynn Brown, age 75 of Dubach, LA, will be held at 2:00 PM, Monday, March 10, 2025 at Owens Memorial Chapel with Rev. Brad Jones officiating.

Nancy was born to Ezra Alton Liner and Marjorie Taylor Liner on June 28, 1949 in Ruston, LA and passed away Tuesday, March 4, 2025 in Dubach, LA. She enjoyed having peaceful time in Glenwood, AR, fishing and spending time with Donnie and friends. Her passions included horses and raising dogs, especially dalmatians, rat terriers, and great danes. Nancy worked at Ruston Building and Loan and at the Comptroller’s Office at Louisiana Tech before becoming owner and operator of Tool City Sales, Inc, for over 50 years.

Nancy was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Donnie Brown; and sister, Marjorie Mathys.

Nancy is survived by her sister, Judy and husband Billy Moon of Ruston, LA; brother, George “Chip” Liner of Waimea, HI; and brother-in-law, William “Bill” Brown of Opelika, AL; close friend and caregiver, Sybil C. Martin; several nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, and a host of friends.

Visitation will be from 1:00 PM until service time Monday at Owens Memorial Chapel, 2300 West California Avenue, Ruston, LA.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Samaritans Purse, Project 4 Hope, 129 T Riggs Road, Arcadia, LA 71001, or Salvation Army. To leave an online memorial message for the family, please visit: http://www.owensmemorialfuneralhome.com

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Funeral services for Tony “Blu” Billberry, age 70 of Pea Ridge, LA will be held at 2:00 PM, Friday, March 7, 2025 at Mineral Springs Baptist Church with Bro. Greg Tipton and Bro. Barry Joyner officiating. Burial will follow in Mineral Springs Cemetery under direction of Owens Memorial Chapel Funeral Home of Ruston, LA.

Blu was born to Thorton “Bill” and Joyce Otwell Billberry on December 18, 1954 in Bernice, LA and passed away on Wednesday, March 5, 2025 in Pea Ridge, LA surrounded by the family he loved so dearly. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend to many. Blu lived his life with a heart full of love, a deep faith in God, and an unshakable sense of humor. He had the gift of storytelling, that would always leave a smile on everyone’s face and laughter in their belly.

Whether he was casting a line at sunrise, patiently waiting in a hunting stand for that BIG BUCK, or teeing off on a beautiful sunny day, he found his greatest joy in nature. 

Blu was a man of strong values and quiet strength and was well respected by all that knew him. His wisdom was sought after, his kindness was genuine, and he had a knack for turning even the simplest moment into a story worth telling. Above all, Blu was a family man, his love for his wife Kim, children and grandchildren knew no bounds. He led by example, teaching those around him the importance of faith, integrity, and finding joy in the little things.

A devoted man of faith, Blu found great joy in sharing his love for the Lord, serving together with his church family at Mineral Springs Baptist Church. Though our hearts are heavy with his loss, we take comfort in knowing that he is now at peace, walking in heaven with Jesus and his loved ones.

Blu was preceded in death by his parents, and grandparents, Toby, and Nell “Granny” Otwell, and Thorton King and Emma Billberry. He is survived by wife, Kim; daughter, Heather Billberry; son, Heath Billberry, and wife Lindsey; grandchildren, Tucker, Talan, Brock, Tinsley, and Tatum; brothers, Will Billberry and wife Sue, and Phillip Billberry and wife Jackie; nieces, nephews, cousins, and many, many friends.

Serving as pallbearers will be Sid Billberry, Lance Billberry, Tucker Billberry, Talen Billberry, Brock Browder, and Cory Kastlen.

Rest Easy Daddy, your stories, laughter, and love will never be forgotten.

Visitation will be from 12:00 PM until service time Friday, at Mineral Springs Baptist Church.

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Roy Wall  
March 27, 1931 – March 3, 2025  
Visitation: Kilpatrick Funeral Homes – Ruston, Friday, March 7, 2025, 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm  
Service: Kilpatrick Funeral Homes – Ruston, Friday, March 7, 2025, 2:00 pm  

Dr. Charles Lawrence Neal  
January 7, 1943 – March 3, 2025  
Service: Temple Baptist Church Fellowship Hall, Friday, March 7, 2025, 10:00 am 

Bishop John Allen Jenkins 
Monday 08/12/1935 — Friday 02/07/2025  
Visitation: Saturday 03/08/2025 9:00am to 11:00am at King’s Funeral Home 
Celebration of Life: Saturday 03/08/2025 11:00am at King’s Funeral Home 
Interment: Saturday 03/08/2025 Following Service, Grambling Memorial Garden, Highway 80 West, Grambling 

Sheila Demetria Dillon-Damond 
Sunday 10/05/1969 — Saturday 03/01/2025  
Visitation: Friday 03/21/2025 3:00pm to 6:00pm at King’s Funeral Home 
Celebration of Life: Saturday 03/22/2025 1:00pm to 3:00pm, Mt. Kingdom Baptist Church, 3756 Louisa Street (A.K.A. Johnny Jackson, Jr. Avenue), New Orleans 
Private Burial  

Tony “Blu” Billberry 
December 18, 1954 – March 5, 2025 
Visitation: Noon to 2 p.m., Friday, March 7, 2025 at Mineral Springs Baptist Church 
Service: 2 p.m., Friday, March 7, 2025, at Mineral Springs Baptist Church  
Burial: After service, Mineral Springs Cemetery in Dubach 

Nancy L Brown 
June 28, 1949 – March 4, 2025 
Visitation: Monday, March 10, 2025, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM, Owens Memorial Chapel Funeral Home 
Memorial Service: Monday, March 10, 2025, 2:00 PM, Owens Memorial Chapel Funeral Home 

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by Wesley Harris

Newly appointed Chief Eric Watson is full of ideas for a new Ruston Police Department if a press conference is any indication of what’s ahead.

Ruston Mayor Ronny Walker and Watson met with the news media Wednesday afternoon with a number of RPD staff, other city employees, and several council members also in attendance.

With a unanimous vote, the Ruston City Council approved Watson’s appointment as chief Monday evening to replace the retiring Steve Rogers who served in the position for 17 years.

The new chief worked as a Ruston patrol officer from 1993 to 1998 before accepting a job with the U. S. Drug Enforcement Administration. In a career spanning over 25 years, Watson worked on drug trafficking cases on a local, national, and international level as well as holding managerial positions.

Watson said after he retired from the DEA, he was pursuing some other interests. When he heard Chief Rogers was retiring, he had some interest in the position, and others told him to consider it. Watson said he loved Ruston and had been interested in moving back to the Ruston area.

“After some soul searching, I decided to pursue the position,” he said.

Walker said he was impressed by the quality of the candidates for the position.

“We had nine really good candidates,” Walker said. “Learned a lot through that interview process and I really appreciate those who applied.”

The mayor said the ideas Watson shared in his interview convinced him to recommend the former Ruston officer to the City Council.

Walker said Watson will officially start as chief today when the necessary paperwork is completed. A formal swearing-in ceremony will occur at City Hall at 4:30 p.m. Friday.

Watson shared some of his ideas for the department but tried to stick to generalities since he has not had the opportunity to discuss them with his RPD staff.

Watson is particularly interested in new recruiting and retention strategies to bring in new officers and keep them.

“The department literally has about the same number [as when I left in 1998],” Watson said, noting major increases in population, infrastructure, and businesses mean the department is woefully understaffed.

“That’s got to change,” he said.

Watson briefly discussed creating a recruitment plan where RPD, the Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s Office, and Louisiana Tech Police work together to recruit candidates to the area.

“If we recruit to live and work in public safety in our area, we all benefit,” he said.

Watson said officers have left the police department for various reasons in the past and he will work on a “change in morale” to keep employees. He mentioned “collateral duties,” the strategy of giving employees a special responsibility in addition to their regular duties to instill empowerment, and foster motivation and a sense of personal growth.

The strategy might “breathe some life” into officers who may feel burned out and have the need for more responsibility to stay motivated.

Watson said only one employee remains from his first stint at RPD in Laura Kent, who will continue to serve as secretary to the police chief was a dispatcher when Watson was a RPD patrol officer.

In response to a question about his biggest challenge, Watson said “getting people to buy in” to his changes.

“We’ve got to have a positive attitude in that police department,” he said. “Not that it isn’t there now, but I intend to build on what’s there now. Each one of the officers has to buy in on what I want to do.”

The new chief said some attitudes may have to change, such as buying in to a working relationship with the community.

“Police officers are not always engaged with the community the way they should be and that’s going to have to change,” he said.

For example, he favors the creation of a senior citizens academy, where seniors who have time to be involved in community affairs will have an opportunity to interact with officers and learn about the department and support it.

Watson said he wants to communicate with the public, including working closely with the city’s social media specialist to address all sorts of issues with the public.

“We need to build relationships before something bad happens,” Watson said.

He said he wants to be able to go to community members he has developed a relationship with to work through difficult times.

Watson hopes to enhance the traditional role of a public information officer, who will not only communicate with the news media, but will be trying to assist in critical incidents and work with traumatized families.

Watson acknowledged the need to take advantage of the many training opportunities for police officers in the region, most of which only require travel expenses.

“The department has not always participated in the free training that’s available,” Watson said.

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by Malcolm Butler

It was a fitting end. 

Caroline James’ conventional three-point play with 1.4 seconds to play lifted No. 2 seed Cedar Creek to a 47-44 win over No. 3 seed JS Clark Academy at University Center Wednesday afternoon.

With the Lady Cougars season on the line trailing 44-41 in the final two minutes, Creek head coach Katie Hall had a message for her team.

“I kept telling them to get this one stop, get this one rebound,” said Hall. “Keep doing your thing. Don’t hang your head. Persevere through it. I just felt like they knew it. I knew it. It was just something we all knew. It was an exciting game.”

It worked.

Avery Ryan, who finished with 15 points and a career-high 19 rebounds, hit a layup with one minute to play to close the deficit to 44-43. After a turnover by JS Clark on the ensuing possession, Ryan drew a foul after pulling down an offensive rebound and sank 1-of-2 free throws with 27 seconds to play to tie the game at 44-44.

“We knew it was going to be a tough game, and we were going to have to battle,” said Ryan. “But we trust each other. No matter what we always stay together.”

The Bulldogs called a timeout with 22 seconds to play to set up the final possession.

It didn’t work.

A missed shot with 15 seconds to play found the hands of Ryan — her 19th board — who made an outlet pass to junior point guard Taylor Martinez. Instead of calling a timeout, Hall allowed her team to work in transition. 

Martinez, who was hounded for much of the game by the JS Clark guards, drove into the lane, found James under the basket who then kissed it off the glass while drawing a foul. 

The assist by Martinez on the game-winning play highlighted a game that saw her under heavy pressure for all 32 minutes. 

“If you are a point guard, you are going to have turnovers,” said Ryan. “Turnovers are a part of the game. her making that last pass … we all trusted (Taylor). We all trusted her this game. We all trusted each other. If someone wasn’t going to do it, someone else was going to do it. We just trust each other.”

James, who ended with eight points and four rebounds, calmly sank the free throw to push the lead to 47-44. The Bulldogs then inbounded the ball and never got off a desperation heave before the final horn sounded, sending the Lady Cougars into a celebration at half court. 

“I think we have gotten to this point by trusting our teammates,” said Hall. “I think it came through at the end. We shared the ball. There were a lot of turnovers. A lot of unforced turnovers, but we are resilient. We didn’t hang our heads or let it bog us down.”

Creek (29-3), which will play in the state title game for only the second time since joining the LHSAA ranks, got off to a strong start. 

With both teams utilizing a full-court press, Cedar Creek was able to get some open look in transition as the Lady Cougars built a 12-6 lead when Ryan hit a shot off the glass with 2:27 to play in the opening quarter. It forced the Bulldogs into burning their second timeout of the first six minutes of play. 

“I really wasn’t sure how (our press would be) on a large court,” said Hall. “Could we sustain it for a whole game? How would they handle it? It gave us a few possessions early, and I was like, ‘hmm? Maybe we stick with this.’ 

“And the girls were loving it. They were wanting it too. I’m glad they had enough gas in their tank to sustain it, and then be able to persevere in the fourth quarter.”

After JS Clark phenom point guard Taylor Barnaba converted a conventional three-point play with 49 seconds to play in the first quarter to close the deficit to 12-11, Cedar Creek scored the final five points on a three-pointer by Mallory Smith and a short corner jumper by Martinez. 

Creek led 19-15 early in the second quarter when sophomore guard Mary Grace Hawkins provided a spark off the bench. Hawkins converted a three-point play and then on Creek’s next possession, drove through the lane and scored to up the lead to 24-15. 

Ryan then scored five points over the next 30 seconds as Creek led 29-17 midway through the second quarter. 

“Did you see her run the court,” said Hall when asked about Ryan’s performance. “Did you see her block that shot and run into the cameraman? These are things that she can do to change a game. In the paint she bothers a lot of shots. The way she runs the floor is phenomenal. She is fun to watch when she does that.”

Down 12, JS Clark finished the half strong. The Bulldogs used an 11-0 run over the final four minutes as Tristanie Albert scored seven of the points. Creek led just 29-28 at the break. 

The third quarter was back and forth as the two teams exchanged leads. 

Barnaba, who scored nine points in the opening quarter, was held in check the rest of the night as James shadowed the jitterbug point guard from one end of the court to the other. 

Hall credited James for limiting the Bulldogs marquee scorer. 

“Caroline James,” said Hall. “She is a force to be reckoned with when she gets her engine going. (Slowing her down) was our emphasis all week. We felt like it was a big key to this game. Caroline was up for the job, and I thought she did a great job.”

Trailing 37-36 entering the final eight minutes of play, Cedar Creek continued to utilize its full-court press and kept JS Clark quiet on the offensive end. 

Lee scored four quick points early in the fourth quarter to give the Lady Cougars a 40-37 lead with just over six minutes to play. But then Creek went cold, not scoring another point until Hawkins hit 1-of-3- free throws with 2:15 to play to close the deficit to 42-41.

The Bulldogs then answered with a bucket with 1:45 to play to up the advantage to 44-41, setting up the dramatic ending.

Hall pointed to wins over Arcadia and Hamilton Christian late in the season, plus games against higher classification teams  in November and December, in preparing her team for the close contest.

“(Those games) were so big,” said Hall. “I even go back to games against Airline and Benton. I can say, ‘Hey, remember when?’ We did those things. We did our things. We continue to prove to each other and to ourselves and to our community that we are good.”

“Beating a good team gives us a lot of confidence that we can compete with good teams, and that we are a good team,” said Lee, who ended with 10 points and 12 rebounds. 

Creek outrebounded JS Clark 46-33 which allowed the Lady Cougars to overcome 23 turnovers which led to 19 points by the Bulldogs. 

“That’s a great team,” said Hall. “I felt like we needed to play our best to beat them.”

Cedar Creek will now face No. 1 seed Southern Lab Saturday at 12 p.m. with a state title on the line. Southern Lab defeated OCS 68-16 in the second semifinal game of the day.

 

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Courtesy of LA Tech University Communications

Louisiana Tech University School of Agricultural Sciences and Forestry professors Nan Nan and Joshua P. Adams received a $300,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Forest Service’s Wood Innovations Grant Program.

The grant will fund their research into monitoring and investigating the Forest Products Innovation Center, a newly-designed mass timber building on Louisiana Tech’s South Campus.

The study aims to provide a case model to guide forest products manufacturers by exploring the potential of sustainable construction materials in Louisiana which can be applied broadly in the southeast and nationally. By examining the use of mass timber, a renewable building material, the project seeks to support innovation in the construction industry and promote the use of wood in future commercial, institutional, and multifamily buildings.

“This project will complement our upcoming Forest Products Innovation Center building by turning the whole building into a laboratory to showcase new ways to use our state’s greatest renewable resource: the trees,” Louisiana Tech Forestry Program Chair Josh Adams said.

In addition to supporting healthier forests, Louisiana’s largest renewable and natural resource, the USDA grant program helps grow local economies by investing in forest product industries.

“This project can help to strengthen the research and education in sustainable wood products at Tech and enhance the communication and collaboration with the forest products industry,” Nan said.

The Forest Service’s investments in local wood economies encourages innovation, expands wood energy markets, and promotes wood as a viable alternative to traditional building materials. Nan and Adams’ research will contribute to this ongoing effort to create healthier, more prosperous communities across the country.

About Louisiana Tech University School of Agricultural Sciences and Forestry:
The School of Agricultural Sciences and Forestry at Louisiana Tech University offers undergraduate programs in agricultural sciences, agricultural business, forestry, and geographic information science. The forestry program faculty and students are dedicated to advancing research in forest industry from seedling to finished products.

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Special to the LPJ

RUSTON, La. — A trio of swimmers with the Bulldog Aquatic Club and local high schools have signed to compete collegiately at the next level at a signing ceremony last Friday at the Lambright Sports and Wellness Center on the the campus of Louisiana Tech University.

Both Sadie Huenefeld and Owen Frick of Ruston High School signed with Liberty University and the University of Missouri – St. Louis, respectively, while McKenzie Jones of Cedar Creek signed with Ouachita Baptist University.

“All of these athletes have spent years to get to this next stepping stone,” Bulldog Aquatic Club and Ruston High School Swim Coach Paulette Butterfield said. “We are proud of what they have accomplished so far representing their schools and our club. I am excited for them and the great things they will still do in swimming and in life.”

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Sadie Huenefeld, Ruston High School
*Bulldog Aquatic Club member for 10 years
*Signed with Liberty University – Division I in Lynchburg, Virginia
*Why Liberty? Siblings have attended, good experiences with school and program
*Field of Study – to be determined
*Events – Sprint Freestyle, Breaststroke
*Swimming notables – 2024 USA Swimming Scholastic All-American, 2024 LHSAA Outstanding Female Swimmer of the Meet / team member of the 2024 RHS State Runner-up team at the 2024 LHSAA meet / 1st place finishes in the 50 freestyle and 100 breaststroke at the 2024 LSHAA State Championships / multi year and event qualifier for Texas Sectionals, Junior Nationals and Futures Championships

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Owen Frick, Ruston High School
*Bulldog Aquatic Club team member for 7 years
*Signed with University of Missouri St. Louis – Division II
*Why UMSL? Knowledge of program from former teammates, welcoming, fit in with the program
*Field of Study – Education
*Events – Mid-distance Freestyle, Butterfly
*Swimming notables – 1st place finishes at 2024 LHSAA state meet in the 100 and 200 freestyle / team member of the 2024 RHS State Runner-up team at the 2024 LHSAA meet / multi year and event qualifier for Texas Sectionals and Futures Championships

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McKenzie Jones, Cedar Creek
*Bulldog Aquatic Club team member for 10 years
*Signed with Ouachita Baptist University – Division II in Arkadelphia, Ark.
*Why OBU? Good program for distance swimmers, nice coaches and nice campus
*Field of Study – Biology / Premed
*Events – Distance Freestyle, Backstroke, Butterfly
*Swimming notables – 2024 LHSAA 2nd place finishes 200 free, 500 free

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Two men were arrested on numerous drug offenses in Lincoln Parish after a Louisiana State Police stopped their vehicle on Interstate 20 last week.

A trooper stopped a GMC Acadia traveling east on I-20 near milepost 75 about 1 a.m. Feb. 27 for improper lane usage. When the vehicle came to a stop, a passenger holding a green shoe box left the vehicle and ran into the woods.

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The trooper pursued the running man, ZaRayvious DeMonte Simpson, 30, of Shreveport, and took him into custody, finding a cigar package containing a marijuana cigar and also a small plastic bag containing suspected cocaine and ketazolam on the ground at Simpson’s feet.

A search further into the woods discovered the green shoe box and a large plastic bag of suspected methamphetamine nearby.

Another trooper arrived at the scene and took the driver, Darrion Demaniez White, 33, of Winnsboro, into custody.

The recovered evidence consisted of about 2.2 pounds of methamphetamine, 2 grams of cocaine, 2 grams of ketazolam, and one gram of marijuana.

White refused to identify himself and would not give his name.

Both men were booked at the Lincoln Parish Detention Center for possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, possession of cocaine, possession of ketazolam, possession of marijuana, conspiracy, and resisting an officer.

White was also booked for no driver’s license and driving left of center. His bail was set at $41,000.

Simpson was also charged with obstruction of justice. His bail was set at $44,500.

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

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

 

A fallen tree cut power to a portion of downtown Ruston about 3:15 p.m. Wednesday.

The outage lasted several hours after a large tree fell on a feeder line next to Trinity Methodist Church on Woodward Avenue (North Service Road).

City crews had to remove the tree before power could be restored.

Traffic backed up on Interstate 20 as motorists struggled with inoperable traffic signals at the end of the exit ramps. As of 5:00 p.m., Woodward Avenue remained closed between Cooktown Road and Trinity.

Inoperable traffic signals should be handled as if the intersection is a four-way stop.

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by Wesley Harris

Heavy equipment has moved to the proposed site of Buc-ee’s on Tarbutton Road. The Amythest Construction Company doing the required roadwork is preparing to move dirt with the delivery of dozens of culverts. Actual work on the store will follow.

The inmates serving on the litter crew operated by the Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s Office are setting records in cleaning up parish roads. In January, in cleaning 54 miles of roadway, the crew collected 11,600 pounds of litter. In February, 12,380 pounds of litter was removed from 78 miles of roadway. So far this year, twelve tons of trash! Thanks, Sheriff Williams.

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I had forgotten a character in the original Magnum, P. I. show had a local connection until I watched some reruns recently. Part of the back story for the character Theodore “T. C.” Calvin, played by actor Roger E. Mosley, was that he played football and basketball at Grambling State in the sixties. Later he went to Vietnam as a Marine helicopter pilot where he met characters Thomas Magnum and Rick Wright. Moseley was a superb wrestler in high school and a track & field coach in later life. The character’s GSU connection is mentioned in several episodes of the hit show.

A new Mexican (what else?) restaurant has opened in the old Pizza Hut location at North Trenton and Pine Avenue. First reviews for the El Padrino Bar & Grill are positive. “El Padrino” means “The Godfather.”

Ruston’s new chief of police brings back a wealth of experience as he returns to his roots. Chief Eric Watson grew up in Arcadia, attended Simsboro School and Cedar Creek, and earned a degree from Louisiana Tech. After a few years as a Ruston patrol officer, he spent half a century with the DEA. His official start date should be announced later this week. Welcome back to the RPD!

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

A Winnfield woman arrested in Ruston for criminal mischief saw her charges escalate after she attacked the staff in the Lincoln Parish Detention Center.

Shonna A. Jones, 39, faces eight charges related to her conduct at the detention center after her arrest for filing a false police report.

The Ruston Police Department first encountered Jones after receiving a report of a kidnapping of a mother and son Feb. 27. An officer spotted the alleged suspect vehicle, a church van, and stopped it in the 100 block of West California Avenue. The driver identified himself as a pastor giving the woman and her son inside a ride to the church to receive some assistance.

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The pastor said he knew the woman, Shonna Jones, and that she was experiencing withdrawals from drug abuse.

Jones told police she and her son had been kidnapped. Since Jones was exhibiting concerning behavior, Ruston Ambulance Service responded to the scene to evaluate Jones, who became more belligerent. After questioning the son and the pastor’s wife, police determined that no kidnapping had occurred, and Jones was arrested for criminal mischief by filing a false report.

At the detention center, Jones attacked a deputy and had to be restrained. When she kicked another deputy, a Taser was displayed, and she became compliant but later took an aggressive stance and struck a deputy. The Taser was deployed so Jones could be restrained. She was additionally charged with three counts of resisting an officer, battery of a police officer, and battery of a correctional facility employee.

Later in the morning, Jones was being escorted by detention center staff from one cell location to another within the facility. Jones suddenly ran away from the deputies, intentionally departing from the designated area, running into an area of the facility she was not authorized to enter. After a brief chase, deputies regained contact with Jones and attempted to restrain her. According to a deputy’s report, she violently resisted and refused to follow commands, using her hand to grab and claw at a deputy’s throat and neck, causing abrasions.

Jones was additionally charged with simple escape, battery of a police officer, and resisting an officer. Bail for all the charges was set at $62,500.

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 Doug Strickel

Our daughter, Hope, graduated this past quarter from Louisiana Tech.  As part of that process, I thought about what commencement message I would share with her.   It’s a life lesson message wrapped around a family 5K run when we were living in the Memphis area.

As we walked to the starting line with hundreds of other runners, I asked what our plans were for the race.  Hope just looked at me and said, “Win.”  I overheard some guys talking about a long steep hill during mile two and thought we needed a real plan and not just an aspirational goal.

As the race started, Hope and I ran together for the first mile.  Pam was behind us, running at her pace, taking in all the house designs, and counting the circle driveways in the neighborhoods we ran through.  At the one-mile mark, Hope decided our pace was too slow and sped up leaving me behind.

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Sure enough, about halfway into mile two, I came to a fork in the road and was guided to stay to the left up a long, steep hill.  It was a huge challenge as the hill seemed to just go on forever.  Many runners were walking as the hill got the best of them.  I finally made it to the top, and the course leveled out and then started a steady downhill descent.

As I rounded a curve with about a quarter of a mile to go, I could see Hope off to my left walking and visibly upset.  I stopped running and went over to check on her.

I explained to Hope that we aren’t going back up the hill, but rather we are now going to veer to the right toward the finish line.  When she realized the new direction, she immediately took off and left me again.

The moment Hope realized that she didn’t have to run up that hill again, she immediately transferred energy to her legs and began running at a fast pace again.  The energy was there all the time.  Her mind had shut her body down because of the negative thoughts. 

Life Lesson: We all need a plan.

It’s fine to have aspirational goals to accomplish but without a plan, those goals are just dreams.  I see this approach all too often and not just with individuals.  Organizations are very adept in talking about what they want to achieve, accomplish, or acquire, but very few know “why”, and many have no idea “how”. 

The plan doesn’t have to be completely figured out, but you need to identify the next steps to execute. 

Life Lesson: There are times in life that we need to sacrifice our goals for others

It’s so easy to get caught up in pursuing our goals, seeking our own desires in life, and missing the people and needs right in front of us.  If you want to experience a momentary sense of accomplishment, achieve a personal goal.  If you want to experience lasting fulfillment, help someone else achieve their goal!

Life Lesson: Don’t be defeated by the past

Hope saw that long, steep hill that caused her so much pain and couldn’t get her focus off it.  She had already run it but was so fixated on having to do it again that she failed to see the proper course in front of her.  Her past was defeating her future. 

We need to learn from the past and be stronger because of what we have overcome, but not let past failures, struggles, or tough times defeat the future before us.  We all need to keep our heads up and look optimistically toward the future based on what we have overcome.

Life Lesson: Don’t listen to every thought

Not every thought that enters our mind is true.  Two of my favorite chapters in the New Testament are Romans 12 and Philippians 4.  They both talk about the importance of renewing our mind, thinking about positive thoughts, and training our mind to focus above our circumstances.  Be careful what you choose to believe!  I have found it helpful to talk to myself but not to listen to myself.

Life Lesson: Just keep moving; the finish line may be closer than you think

When Hope had stopped and essentially gave up looking up that hill, she was about a quarter mile from the finish line but didn’t know it.  We could hear the music at the finish line, but she wasn’t listening. 

Regardless of the challenge you are facing, the key is to just keep taking the next step.  You never know how close you are to resolving the matter.  Just keep reaching out to heal that relationship.  Keep writing, reading, working out, going to work, practicing, and selling.  You never know when that next attempt will be the breakthrough you are looking for in your pursuits!

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.

I wish to quote the White Rabbit from Alice in Wonderland, to wit:

“I’m late, I’m late for
A very important date.
No time to say hello, good-bye,
I’m late, I’m late, I’m late
I’m late and when I wave,
I lose the time I save.
My fuzzy ears and whiskers
Took me too much time to shave.
I run and then I hop, hop, hop,
I wish that I could fly.
There’s danger if I dare to
Stop and here’s a reason why:
I’m over-due, I’m in a rabbit stew.
Can’t even say good-bye,
Hello, I’m late, I’m late, I’m late.”

I started this article on Monday early, and I have run out of time. I’m late, I’m late for this very important deadline. So here are my thoughts for this week. Or you can quit now and enjoy the deep thoughts of the White Rabbit.

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In the story we call the Prodigal Son, which is recorded in Luke 15. The wayward son returns. He is a broken failure. He has been living large in a foreign country. Kid comes home broken. Dad welcomes him back with open arms.

Allow Dr. Luke to finish the story, “But the father said to his servants, ‘Bring quickly the best robe, and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet. And bring the fattened calf and kill it and let us eat and celebrate. For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found.’ And they began to celebrate.”

I want you to ponder the shoes.

The shoes on his feet made the journey to the far country an easy walk for the Prodigal. It is one thing to walk away from dad bare-footed; it is another to put shoes on your feet as you are abandoning the faith and love of your Father. If you are going to keep the boy at home now that he has returned, don’t give him back the shoes! He might leave again. Keep him bare-footed and on the farm.

God’s love does not operate like that.

The shoes symbolize freedom. God’s grace is so amazing that when sinners come back to God, they are granted freedom. Wasn’t it freedom that got them into trouble in the first place?

You are now introduced to the paradox of grace.

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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Courtesy of LA Tech Athletic Communications

Bulldogs vs. NMSU

Louisiana Tech wraps up the regular season with two home games this week, starting tonight against New Mexico State inside the Thomas Assembly Center on Karl Malone Court.

Tipoff is set for 6:30 p.m. and the game can be heard on 107.5 FM and seen on ESPN+.

LA Tech (19-10, 8-8) had arguably its best game of the season this past Saturday, overpowering Sam Houston in a 90-66 victory in Huntsville. After dropping their first five conference road games, the Bulldogs have won three of the last four. It was the fourth largest margin of victory by the ‘Dogs in a CUSA road game and was the biggest home loss for the Bearkats since 1994.

New Mexico State (16-13, 9-7) has been hot and cold this season. The Aggie started off Conference USA very hot, winning their first four league games which was part of a 7-game winning streak. Following the conference wins right out of the game, NM State had a stretch of losing six of its next seven games.

However, the Aggies have found success again by winning four of their last five including a 65-47 victory against WKU this past Saturday. It was the fewest points allowed by NM State this season, holding the Hilltoppers to just 26.9 percent shooting from the field. With two league games left, the Aggies find themselves alone in fourth in the CUSA stand­ings with a 9-7 mark.

LA Tech trails in the all-time series versus New Mexico State, 17-6. The Aggies have dominated the series, win­ning 16 of the first 20 matchups before the Bulldogs swept the series last season. NM State won for the 17th time in the series back on Jan. 4 in Las Cruces, handing LA Tech its biggest CUSA loss in program history.

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Lady Techsters at NMSU

Louisiana Tech starts the final road trip of the regular season when the Lady Techsters travel to New Mexico State tonight. The game will tip off at 7 p.m. CT in the Pan American Center on ESPN+.

It can also be heard on 97.7 FM.

Louisiana Tech (14-13, 7-9)  out the home schedule with a dominating 76-55 win over Sam Houston. Paris Bradley had a masterful performance with 25 points, five rebounds, five assists, and three steals. Jianna Morris contributed 20 points to give the Lady Techsters two players to score 20+ points for the first time since 2023. Robyn Lee had 12 points and seven boards, while Jordan Marshall had a double-double with 11 and 10.

New Mexico State (15-14, 8-8) is coming off two road losses to Middle Tennessee and Western Kentucky. The Aggies rely heavily on Molly Kaiser, who was held to just 10 points in the two games.

Kaiser has been one of the top scorers in the country at 20.3 points a game. The grad student shoots 47.7 percent from the field, 35.3 from behind the arc, and 82.0 from the free throw line. She has scored double figures in 26 games this season, with 15 games of 20+ and five games of over 30 points. Kaiser also leads NM State with 2.3 assists per game and is second with 1.8 steals.

LA Tech leads the all-time series 18-5, including a win at home over the Aggies earlier this season.

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Courtesy of LA Tech Athletic Communications

The Bulldogs handled business again Wednesday night by taking down the Nicholls Colonels, 10-0, for a second-straight seven-inning run-rule shutout.

Tech defeated the Colonels 19-0 in seven innings on Tuesday night.

It was the first time the Bulldogs recorded consecutive shutouts since shutting out Army and Creighton on March 1 and 2 during the 2024 season. It is the first time shutting out the same opponent in consecutive games since the ‘Dogs did it against Tulane on March 19 and March 20 during the 2021 season.

“29-0 these last two nights is a good recipe for winning, and it comes at a much-needed time,” said head coach Lane Burroughs. “We’ve been scuffling a little bit-we talked about it last night, talked about it with our team the other day that this is nothing new to us. It seems like every year we’ve been 6-5, 5-4 or whatever [to start the season], and we needed these two wins. Double midweeks are tough.”

Luke Nichols shined again on the home mound in his start, tossing five scoreless innings allowing just one walk and two hits with a pair of strikeouts. His performance was the third time since arriving to Ruston that he threw at least five innings with no runs allowed.

Tech jumped to a 2-0 lead in the opening frame after Sebastian Mexico opened up with a two-run base hit with the bases loaded. The Bulldogs then exploded for six runs in the second. After Trey Hawsey drew a walk to lead off the inning, Will Safford reached on a fielder’s choice before the Nicholls shortstop overthrew his second baseman to attempt the force out on Hawsey. The ball went wide and allowed the runners to advance to second and third with no outs.

Cade Patterson drove in both of those runs on a base hit up the middle before a bunt single by Garrison Berkley and a walk by Colton Coates loaded the bases for Tech yet again. Zeb Ruddell then delivered a pair of runs on a base hit before Safford drew a bases-loaded walk to make it an 8-0 game.

Safford extended the advantage to nine runs after a groundout in the fourth before Coates walked it off and secured the run-rule victory in the seventh.

Landon Fontenot recorded his first collegiate appearance and strikeout after relieving Nichols in the sixth inning.

The Bulldogs close out their nine-game homestand with a three-game weekend series against South Alabama, with the series opener slated for a 4 p.m. CT first pitch on Friday, March 7 at the Love Shack.

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Services for Edgar Allen Tuten will be held at 2:30 pm on Thursday, March 6, 2025, at Trinity Methodist Church in Ruston.   Visitation will be prior to the service from 1:00 P.M. to 2:30 P.M. at Trinity Methodist Church.  Interment will be a private family burial. 

Edgar Allen Tuten was born on September 15, 1944, in Brenham, Texas, to Mildred and Joe Tuten and was welcomed into his heavenly home on March 2, 2025.  Allen was born loving all things outdoors and working with his hands.  If you gave him a hammer and a saw, he would start creating.  Digging in the dirt was also a passion whether he was looking for arrow heads or planting over 15,000 daffodils at his home.  He could expertly identify every tree and plant he saw in his yard and beyond.  He had many awards, accomplishments, and successes, but he was best known to all for having a gentle, kind and servant’s heart. He lived his life putting God first, his wife MaryBelle second, followed by his family, friends, and his community.  Allen graduated from Ruston High School and attended Louisiana Tech University where he earned a BA degree in Business and a MA degree in Business Administration as well as completing a Hospital Administration Development Program from the University of Alabama, Birmingham.  Allen worked his way up from Switch Board operator to CEO of Lincoln General Hospital, retiring in 2001.  He was a member of the Louisiana Hospital Association Board of Directors for ten years serving as Board Chairman for one year.  He earned Diplomat status in the American College of Hospital Executives.  Upon retirement he worked as a part time consultant and staff member for Reeves Memorial Medical Center, and in 2013 celebrated 50 years in the health care field.

Allen Tuten touched the lives of many people locally, nationally, and internationally as a humanitarian volunteer and healthcare professional. This was not a one-time project, but a lifetime legacy of service to others.  He gave of himself, his time, and his resources, and enjoyed mentoring both adults and youth to do the same.  He had a strong desire to foster these traits in others and modeled a servant heart that he felt was important to our society.  Allen’s service and career found its base in Ruston, the community he loved, and from that base his benevolent impact spread to touch all ages, races, and many nationalities throughout the world. 

Allen began developing those traits that would lead to a life of humanitarian service as a teenager.  He was a leader in his school, church, and Boy Scouts, attaining the rank of Eagle Scout.  As an adult he organized the first Medical Explorer post for high school students.  He also taught outdoor camping skills for his daughters’ Brownie and Girl Scout troops.

Allen’s church was always a priority in his life.  He taught fifth grade boys’ Sunday School for two years followed by 25 years as an adult Sunday School teacher.  He served as chairman of the Administrative Board, chairman of the Pastor Parish Relations Committee, devotional leader for a Wednesday night study group, an adult leader and teacher of Weekend of the Cross for 18 years, organized the wheelchair ramp construction ministry and completed 14 ramps, led children’s sermons, served as a lay pastor, and volunteered wherever needed.

Through his church and Louisiana Volunteers in Mission, Allen participated in or led nearly 50 construction missions around the world.  He is most noted for projects in small rural churches in Alaska. In June of 2013 he completed his 26^th trip to Alaska to perform volunteer work.  Other mission sites included South Louisiana, Arkansas, North Carolina, the Navajo Nation, England, the jungle of Peru, Costa Rica, Honduras, Panama, Venezuela, India, and the Marshall Islands. Each mission trip project was at his own expense and before retirement he used his vacation time to participate.

In retirement, Allen was certified as an early responder and joined the Red Cross in 2000, responding most often in Louisiana, but spent 2 weeks in New York following Superstorm Sandy.  He helped Trinity United Methodist establish a Red Cross Shelter after Hurricanes Ike, Katrina and Gustav.  Trinity continues to be an emergency shelter site today.

Allen also has a strong legacy of service to the Ruston Community.  He was a member of the Ruston Rotary Club for 50 years.  He served as president for 2 different terms and wrote and secured the grant funds to start a backpack program for food insecure students that continues today.  He was recognized by Rotary International as a Paul Harris Fellow.  A proud graduate of Ruston High School, he has led efforts to strengthen and sustain the Ruston High School Alumni Association and was currently serving as president of the association.  Allen was elected to the Lincoln Parish School Board at the age of 30, serving a total of 7 terms in 26 years including multiple terms as Vice President and President.  Another gift of his talents to the Ruston community was his active involvement in set construction and theater productions with Ruston Community Theatre.  He even performed in four productions earning a “Rustony” Award for best actor in a minor role in 2009.

Allen served on the Boards of the Ruston Lincon Chamber of Commerce, Lincoln Bank, Louisiana Tech Wesley Foundation, Louisiana Methodist Children’s Home, Mount Sequoyah Retreat Center, Lincoln Parish Wildlife Federation, and North Central Louisiana Habitat for Humanity where he recruited over 350 volunteers and supervised hands-on construction.  Allen wrote a weekly column for the Ruston Daily Leader entitled, “Sportsman’s Paradise” for three years.

Other special interests of Allen included competing in triathlons, playing co-ed volleyball, making his famous “Grandaddy’s bread,” raising chickens, hunting, and catching his limit of fish.

Honors and Awards:  1974 Ruston Chamber of Commerce Outstanding Young Man (state finalist), Grand Prize Winner of the Peach Festival Cookery Contest, 2007 Rotary “Service Above Self Award”, 2011 Ruston Lincoln Chamber of Commerce “Bill Best” Humanitarian Award, 2013 Ruston High School Distinguished Alumni Award, and December 4, 2024 was proclaimed Allen Tuten Day by the mayor as a result of his significant commitment to civic engagement and volunteerism in the City of Ruston.

The legacy he was most proud of was the family that he created with his high school sweetheart, MaryBelle. They spent 58 adventurous years making memories and enjoying spending time together.  They visited all 50 states, more than 60 countries, and six different continents during their marriage.

They treasured their time spent cheering their family on as they achieved success in school, sports, theater, church, community leadership, and their professional careers.  Grandaddy was quick to let you know that he was proud of you, and he loved you.  He leaves them with lots of special memories and a wide range of furniture projects and other woodcrafts that fill their homes and hearts.

He is survived by his wife MaryBelle Kirkland Tuten; daughters Maribel Tuten Childress and husband Dan, Bella Vista, AR; Maradith Allyn Tuten Boone and husband Dr. Ryan Boone, Baton Rouge, LA.; and his bonus daughter Kim Mulkey.  Grandchildren:  Marybelle Christine Beaulieu (Gardner) Fayetteville, AR; Christian Childress, Sachse, TX; Jon Childress and Aaron Childress, Bella Vista, AR; Caroline Boone, Ella Boone and Hattie Boone, Baton Rouge; his first Beaulieu great-grandchild expected this fall. His mother Mildred Tuten; brother Jim Tuten and wife Linda; brother-in-law Neill and Barbara Kirkland; and a supporting group of nieces and nephews and a host of loving friends.

He is preceded in death by his father Joseph Daniel Tuten, father and mother-in-law Dr. Neill S. Kirkland and Mary Belle Taylor Kirkland Holstead and brother, Billy Joe Tuten. 

Pallbearers:  Harry Fristo, Mickey Mays, Aaron Childress, Christian Childress, Jon Childress, Gardner Beaulieu, R. Neill Kirkland, and Jon Kirkland. Honorary Pallbearers: Ruston High School Class of 1963 Lunch Bunch and Soul Food Life Group.

In memory of Allen Tuten, memorials may be made to Ruston High School Alumni Association Scholarship Fund, PO Box 1694, Ruston, LA 71273; Lincoln Health Foundation (payable to) Lincoln Parish Schools Backpack Program (memo line), PO Box 2635, Ruston, LA 71273-2635; and Louisiana Tech University Foundation, Tuten Endowment Scholarship (memo line), PO Box 1190, Ruston, LA 71273.

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

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Funeral services for Roy Wall, 93 of Ruston, LA, will be held Friday March 7, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Kilpatrick Funeral Home Chapel in Ruston, LA.   A Visitation will be prior to the service from 1:00 to 2:00 PM at Kilpatrick Funeral Home.   Officiating the service will be Dr. Reggie Bridges and Rev. Dale Oden.

Roy served his country in the United States Army.  He was a Forestry Technician for International Paper where he retired with over 42 years of service.  Roy was very involved in the lives of his children as they grew up.  He was a Little League Baseball Coach for many years.  Roy also served as a Scout Master where he was very involved and influential in the lives of these young scouts.  He took them camping and they also served as ushers for the many of the SEC football games.  Roy also enjoyed hunting, fishing, and was a seasoned artist where he excelled in sand art.  Roy and Betty were long time members of Temple Baptist Church in Ruston.

Roy was preceded in death by his parents James Marion and Claire Carter Wall, and his son Donald Robert Wall.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife of 70 years, Betty Wall; sons Rance Roy Wall and wife Deborah Williams, Royce Womble Wall; grandchildren Erin McCarthy, Brian M. Wall and wife Katlyn, Conner M. Wall and wife Amber, and Andrew Roy; great grandchildren Meghan Elizabeth, Scott, and  Ivan; brother William G. Wall, and numerous nieces,  nephews, and other family and friends.

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Graveside service for Julia Gale McCallister will be held at the New Hope Baptist Church Cemetery in Choudrant, LA, at 11:00 AM on March 8^th.   Judy will be laid to rest near her mother and sister.   

It is with heavy hearts, we announce the passing of a cherished mother, grandmother, and friend, who left this world peacefully on February 27, 2025, at the age of 82. Julia was born on February 9, 1943, in Ruston, Louisiana, and her journey through life brought her to Doyline, where she built a home filled with love and warmth.

She was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Laurie Ann Deaton, who holds a special place in our memories. Julia is survived by two loving sons, Larry Douglas Burnett and William Todd Burnett, who carry forward her spirit.

As a proud grandmother, Julia embraced her role with joy, often recounting stories and sharing laughter with her three grandchildren: Kyle Turner, Cooper Burnett, and Reece Burnett. Her heart only grew fonder as she delighted in the lives of her three great-grandchildren, Landon, Makenzye, and Kayley Turner, who brought her so much joy and happiness.

Julia dedicated 35 years of her life to her work at Walmart in Minden, Louisiana, where she became familiar to many in the community, known for her kind smile and helpful nature. She built lifelong friendships during her years of service, leaving a lasting impression on everyone she met.

As we gather to honor her memory, we find comfort in the lives she touched, the stories she shared, and the love she spread so freely. Judy’s spirit has left an indelible mark on all that knew her, and though she is no longer with us, she will live on in our hearts.  Mom will be profoundly missed, but her love and legacy will always remain alive within us.

Flowers can be sent to Kilpatrick Funeral Home in Ruston, LA.

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Roy Wall 
March 27, 1931 – March 3, 2025 
Visitation: Kilpatrick Funeral Homes – Ruston, Friday, March 7, 2025, 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm 
Service: Kilpatrick Funeral Homes – Ruston, Friday, March 7, 2025, 2:00 pm 

Dr. Charles Lawrence Neal 
January 7, 1943 – March 3, 2025 
Visitation: Temple Baptist Church Fellowship Hall, Thursday, March 6, 2025, 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm 
Service: Temple Baptist Church Fellowship Hall, Friday, March 7, 2025, 10:00 am 

Allen Tuten 
September 15, 1944 – March 2, 2025 
Visitation: Trinity Methodist Church, Thursday, March 6, 2025, 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm 
Service:  Trinity Methodist Church, Thursday, March 6, 2025, 2:30 pm 

Nancy L. Brown 
June 28, 1949 – March 4, 2025 
Services pending 

Tony Lamar Billberry 
December 18, 1954 – March 5, 2025 
Services pending 

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by Malcolm Butler

It was a fitting end. 

Caroline James’ conventional three-point play with 1.4 seconds to play lifted No. 2 seed Cedar Creek to a 47-44 win over No. 3 seed JS Clark Academy at University Center Wednesday afternoon.

With the Lady Cougars season on the line trailing 44-41 in the final two minutes, Creek head coach Katie Hall had a message for her team.

“I kept telling them to get this one stop, get this one rebound,” said Hall. “Keep doing your thing. Don’t hang your head. Persevere through it. I just felt like they knew it. I knew it. It was just something we all knew. It was an exciting game.”

It worked.

Avery Ryan, who finished with 15 points and a career-high 19 rebounds, hit a layup with one minute to play to close the deficit to 44-43. After a turnover by JS Clark on the ensuing possession, Ryan drew a foul after pulling down an offensive rebound and sank 1-of-2 free throws with 27 seconds to play to tie the game at 44-44.

“We knew it was going to be a tough game, and we were going to have to battle,” said Ryan. “But we trust each other. No matter what we always stay together.”

The Bulldogs called a timeout with 22 seconds to play to set up the final possession.

It didn’t work.

A missed shot with 15 seconds to play found the hands of Ryan — her 19th board — who made an outlet pass to junior point guard Taylor Martinez. Instead of calling a timeout, Hall allowed her team to work in transition. 

Martinez, who was hounded for much of the game by the JS Clark guards, drove into the lane, found James under the basket who then kissed it off the glass while drawing a foul. 

The assist by Martinez on the game-winning play highlighted a game that saw her under heavy pressure for all 32 minutes. 

“If you are a point guard, you are going to have turnovers,” said Ryan. “Turnovers are a part of the game. her making that last pass … we all trusted (Taylor). We all trusted her this game. We all trusted each other. If someone wasn’t going to do it, someone else was going to do it. We just trust each other.”

James, who ended with eight points and four rebounds, calmly sank the free throw to push the lead to 47-44. The Bulldogs then inbounded the ball and never got off a desperation heave before the final horn sounded, sending the Lady Cougars into a celebration at half court. 

“I think we have gotten to this point by trusting our teammates,” said Hall. “I think it came through at the end. We shared the ball. There were a lot of turnovers. A lot of unforced turnovers, but we are resilient. We didn’t hang our heads or let it bog us down.”

Creek (29-3), which will play in the state title game for only the second time since joining the LHSAA ranks, got off to a strong start. 

With both teams utilizing a full-court press, Cedar Creek was able to get some open look in transition as the Lady Cougars built a 12-6 lead when Ryan hit a shot off the glass with 2:27 to play in the opening quarter. It forced the Bulldogs into burning their second timeout of the first six minutes of play. 

“I really wasn’t sure how (our press would be) on a large court,” said Hall. “Could we sustain it for a whole game? How would they handle it? It gave us a few possessions early, and I was like, ‘hmm? Maybe we stick with this.’ 

“And the girls were loving it. They were wanting it too. I’m glad they had enough gas in their tank to sustain it, and then be able to persevere in the fourth quarter.”

After JS Clark phenom point guard Taylor Barnaba converted a conventional three-point play with 49 seconds to play in the first quarter to close the deficit to 12-11, Cedar Creek scored the final five points on a three-pointer by Mallory Smith and a short corner jumper by Martinez. 

Creek led 19-15 early in the second quarter when sophomore guard Mary Grace Hawkins provided a spark off the bench. Hawkins converted a three-point play and then on Creek’s next possession, drove through the lane and scored to up the lead to 24-15. 

Ryan then scored five points over the next 30 seconds as Creek led 29-17 midway through the second quarter. 

“Did you see her run the court,” said Hall when asked about Ryan’s performance. “Did you see her block that shot and run into the cameraman? These are things that she can do to change a game. In the paint she bothers a lot of shots. The way she runs the floor is phenomenal. She is fun to watch when she does that.”

Down 12, JS Clark finished the half strong. The Bulldogs used an 11-0 run over the final four minutes as Tristanie Albert scored seven of the points. Creek led just 29-28 at the break. 

The third quarter was back and forth as the two teams exchanged leads. 

Barnaba, who scored nine points in the opening quarter, was held in check the rest of the night as James shadowed the jitterbug point guard from one end of the court to the other. 

Hall credited James for limiting the Bulldogs marquee scorer. 

“Caroline James,” said Hall. “She is a force to be reckoned with when she gets her engine going. (Slowing her down) was our emphasis all week. We felt like it was a big key to this game. Caroline was up for the job, and I thought she did a great job.”

Trailing 37-36 entering the final eight minutes of play, Cedar Creek continued to utilize its full-court press and kept JS Clark quiet on the offensive end. 

Lee scored four quick points early in the fourth quarter to give the Lady Cougars a 40-37 lead with just over six minutes to play. But then Creek went cold, not scoring another point until Hawkins hit 1-of-3- free throws with 2:15 to play to close the deficit to 42-41.

The Bulldogs then answered with a bucket with 1:45 to play to up the advantage to 44-41, setting up the dramatic ending.

Hall pointed to wins over Arcadia and Hamilton Christian late in the season, plus games against higher classification teams  in November and December, in preparing her team for the close contest.

“(Those games) were so big,” said Hall. “I even go back to games against Airline and Benton. I can say, ‘Hey, remember when?’ We did those things. We did our things. We continue to prove to each other and to ourselves and to our community that we are good.”

“Beating a good team gives us a lot of confidence that we can compete with good teams, and that we are a good team,” said Lee, who ended with 10 points and 12 rebounds. 

Creek outrebounded JS Clark 46-33 which allowed the Lady Cougars to overcome 23 turnovers which led to 19 points by the Bulldogs. 

“That’s a great team,” said Hall. “I felt like we needed to play our best to beat them.”

Cedar Creek will now face No. 1 seed Southern Lab Saturday at 12 p.m. with a state title on the line. Southern Lab defeated OCS 68-16 in the second semifinal game of the day.

 

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