Courtesy of LA Tech University Communications

The Louisiana Tech Research Institute (LTRI) hosted a signing day for the Air Force Global Strike Command National Security Fellowship on April 15, 2026. The signing showcased Louisiana Tech University students who were selected to aid in research and innovation for military operations.

The National Security Fellowship program is a collaborative effort between the Air Force Global Strike Command (AFGSC), Louisiana Tech Applied Research Corporation (LTARC), and the Cyber Innovation Center (CIC). The program provides opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students across Northeast Louisiana as they learn the importance of the military and national security while working to grow the local economy.

The 2026-2027 academic year will be the start of Louisiana Tech fellows, working on projects with the Barksdale AFB, to meet and exchange ideas with students from the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology who will be working on projects at Ellsworth AFB.

“This year will be the first time the program has expanded beyond Northwest Louisiana,” Warren Ward, LTRI chief of staff and LTARC CEO, said. “While the LTRI team will provide administrative program oversight, our mentorship includes periodic opportunities to learn about the U.S. national security structure, AFGSC, and to hear about historic airpower accomplishments.”

For some of the fellowship recipients, the program is a great opportunity to research and create products during their studies at Louisiana Tech that military personnel can use.

“As a member of ROTC, it’s exciting to work with individuals who are in active duty and creating products that will be used in the future,” Drew McKee, Mechanical Engineering major, said. “This opportunity really makes me hone in on my engineering degree.”

“The fellowship program gives us opportunities to create something new,” Xavier Session, Mechanical Engineering major with a minor in Technical Writing, said. “Building a project from start to finish and having the military potentially use a product I helped create is extremely gratifying.”

Though the projects have not yet started, students are already recognizing the significance of the work and opportunities ahead.

“The projects are understandably kept confidential, but networking with the military and the companies involved makes me look forward to what’s ahead,” Caleb Davis, Computer Science major, said.

“My work centers on how to use your mind in high-pressure situations, so the opportunity to work with military personnel is especially meaningful given my military family background,” Hannah Hutson, Sport and Exercise Psychology master’s student, said. “I’m eager to gain hands-on experience and explore how my major can go beyond an athletic background.”

Students will gain a commitment to innovation, collaboration, and strategic deterrence through their efforts by fostering a dynamic of problem-solving and resilience in the face of challenges.

“Through this program, the fellows emerge with a strong appreciation of national defense,” Ward added. “They will gain experience solving real-world problems under the guidance of uniformed Airmen and civil servants. They will also have the opportunity to formally brief senior AFGSC officials. These individuals will be highly competitive for careers in the U.S. government and defense industries.”

Recruiting for the program opens up in September 2026. For more information, visit LTRI’s webpage or email Sharon Jackson at sharonj@latech.edu.

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by Wesley Harris

There was a time when the most important part of the school day didn’t happen in the classroom.

It happened outside—on packed dirt playgrounds, under metal monkey bars that roasted in the midday sun and on equipment that today might never pass inspection.

Recess in the 1950s and 1960s was an experience like none other. The playground was where we learned how to get along—or else. I saw it firsthand as a student at Ruston Elementary School.

Playground equipment looked simple but it could be intimidating. Swings soared high enough to make you think you might touch the sky. See-saws—teeter-totters to some—demanded balance and timing. Merry-go-rounds spun faster and faster as children ran alongside and leapt aboard. Monkey bars tested strength and nerve, and falling off came with the territory.

Rules were few. Fights broke out without warning and ended just as quickly. Teachers kept their distance, watching from the edges rather than stepping in.

Children made their own games. Some followed loose rules, but many did not. “Kill the man with the ball,” as we called it, relied more on survival than structure—whoever held the ball became the target. The game turned loud, chaotic, and, by today’s standards, probably unthinkable.

Other contests moved slower but were no less competitive. A game of marbles could grow intense, with prized shooters and carefully guarded collections on the line. Winning mattered because losing meant walking away empty-handed.

Imagination filled in everything else.

Forts built of pine straw and whatever else we could find became battlegrounds. We chose sides, claimed territory, and for a time, those makeshift strongholds felt as real as anything in a history book.

Boys and girls went their separate ways.

While the boys ran, climbed, and competed, girls gathered nearby for their own diversions. Chinese jump ropes stretched between ankles as chants guided each round, and hand-clapping games followed rhythms passed from one group to the next.

Oh, there were injuries.

One wrong step could leave you bruised or worse. See-saws and swings punished careless play, but falls from the monkey bars probably caused the most damage. I remember one classmate breaking his collarbone.

But the merry-go-round may have been the most dangerous of all.

The bigger boys pushed while everyone else held on like their lives depended on it. The spinning force could sling you off like a shot.

The scariest moment came the day Mike crawled underneath the spinning platform. Why, I don’t know.

The thing spun faster and faster until something gave way. The ball bearings came loose, and the platform dropped with a bang.

For a moment, I thought Mike was dead.

Then he started screaming.

Mike was tough, but fear had him now. I dropped to my knees and looked underneath as he yelled for help. A couple of us grabbed his legs and pulled while others tried to lift the platform.

Teachers came running.

Somehow, Mike survived. A large rock beneath the merry-go-round—just bigger than Mike’s head—caught the weight of the falling platform and kept it from crushing him.

It was a close call none of us ever forgot.

Danger didn’t stop at the playground equipment. One day, a kid taking practice swings caught another in the head with a bat—another reminder that supervision, as we know it today, didn’t always exist.

Playgrounds have changed. Bare dirt has given way to padded surfaces designed to soften falls. Equipment sits lower, guarded by rails and safety features. Merry-go-rounds like the ones we knew have disappeared, and towering metal structures have been replaced with safer, standardized designs.

Today’s playgrounds are safer by every measure. But they are also different.

Back then, swings reached for the sky, games took shape on the spot, and no one knew exactly what might happen next. Recess felt less controlled, more unpredictable—and sometimes a little dangerous.

It was a different kind of growing up.

You held on tight, took your chances, and learned how to get back up.

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Courtesy of Louisiana State Police

On Friday, May 8, 2026, shortly after 5:00 p.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop F began investigating a two-vehicle fatal crash on Louisiana Highway 4 at its intersection with Taylor Road. The crash claimed the life of 71-year-old Lonnie Williamson of Downsville.

The initial investigation revealed that a 2020 Chevrolet Suburban was traveling west on Louisiana Highway 4. At the same time, Williamson was traveling east on Louisiana Highway 4 on a 2017 Harley-Davidson motorcycle.

For reasons still under investigation, the Chevrolet attempted to make a left turn onto Taylor Road when it was unsafe to do so. This action caused the Chevrolet to enter the path of the Harley-Davidson, resulting in a collision in the eastbound lane of Louisiana Highway 4.

Williamson, who was wearing a DOT-approved helmet, suffered fatal injuries and died at the scene. The driver of the Chevrolet, who was not properly restrained, was transported to an area hospital for minor injuries. Although impairment is not suspected, routine toxicology samples were collected and will be submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.

Motorcyclists are among the most vulnerable motorists on our roadways, and crashes involving a motorcycle often have devastating consequences. Motorcycles have a much smaller profile than passenger vehicles and can be more difficult to see. Motorists are urged to remain attentive, avoid distractions, and never operate a vehicle while impaired, as even a momentary lapse in attention can result in the loss of life.

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Jenni & Dr. George Smith are hosting a kickoff fundraising event for Assistant District Attorney Mike Smith, candidate for Ruston City Court Judge, on May18 from 5:30-7:00 p.m.

Smith is a lifelong member of the Ruston community. He is the son of Kelly and cardiologist Dr. Billy Smith.

Smith’s dad has five brothers who were also doctors and one lawyer/ judge. His grandfather, commonly known as Dr. Joe, started at Green Clinic at its beginning. Mike’s great-grandfather Dr JL Smith, known as Docca, was a physician in Dubach, Louisiana in the time of horse and buggy house calls.

For more than 10 years, Smith has served as an Assistant District Attorney with the Third Judicial District Attorney’s Office.

Over the years, he has prosecuted thousands of misdemeanor, juvenile and felony cases for Lincoln Parish.

In addition to his public service, Smith also maintains a successful civil law practice, where he has worked to resolve disputes, negotiate disagreements, and help people reach fair and practical outcomes.

Smith is active in a number of civic and charitable efforts, including the Rotary Club, Kiwanis Club, and Teach One to Lead One. He also supports the Boys & Girls Club, United Way, DART, and youth and high school sports.

Mike recently celebrated his 11- year wedding anniversary with his wife, Danielle Smith, also a licensed attorney. Together, they are raising their three sons in Ruston. Mike and Danielle are members of First Baptist Church of Ruston.

 

This is a political advertorial.

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A Ruston man was arrested last week after a reported shoplifting incident, according a Ruston Police Department report.

Adrian Jackson, 59, was taken into custody around 3:46 p.m. on May 1 near North Service Road and Cooktown Road.

Authorities reported officers were dispatched to a discount gift shop on Woodward Avenue regarding a shoplifting complaint. A store employee described the suspect and said he had left the store with merchandise without paying. Officers later located Jackson, who matched the description nearby.

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According to an arrest affidavit, Jackson was found carrying a black trash bag containing multiple items, including clothing and personal goods. Seven packaged electronic items were found inside the lining of Jackson’s jacket. A store employee identified the items as merchandise taken from the store without payment. Jackson reportedly stated he had taken the items earlier in the day but did not have a receipt.

Further investigation revealed Jackson had multiple active warrants. He was taken into custody and transported to the Lincoln Parish Detention Center.

Jackson was booked for theft, along with outstanding warrants for failure to appear in Ruston City Court for theft and for failure to appear in Third District Court for theft and possession of a Schedule II controlled substance.

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

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

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Approximately 30 riders in the First Baptist Weekday Preschool’s fifth annual St. Jude Trike-a-Thon this spring raised $2,630 to benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

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Pam Flowers, preschool minister and director for the Weekday program, coordinated the event, which was co-sponsored by the Zeta Rho chapter of Epsilon Sigma Alpha service organization.

Along with generating financial support for the Memphis-based hospital, the ride also raised awareness and support for children facing serious illnesses.

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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By Kyle Roberts

RUSTON, La. — With another week of spring practice now complete, the Ruston High School Bearcats are beginning to get a clearer picture of what the 2026 football team could look like while also getting the chance to break in one of the newest additions to the school’s athletic facilities.

Ruston High Head Coach Jerrod Baugh said the biggest takeaway from the second week of spring drills is that the Bearcats continue making progress while still having plenty of work ahead before the fall season arrives.

“For me, it’s always, we got a lot of work still to do,” Baugh said. “But this time of year is so valuable because you can really focus on us and the things we need to improve on without getting ready for an opponent.”

Baugh said spring practice allows the coaching staff to evaluate new faces at key positions while also shaping the identity of next year’s team.

“You can make some decisions about what kids can and can’t do and really kind of decide what next year is going to look like as far as personnel and scheme,” Baugh said. “I think we took a step forward last week in the practices we’ve had.”

One of the biggest developments during the week came off the field as Ruston athletes officially began using the school’s new covered multi-purpose facility. The structure, which sits adjacent to the weight room, is expected to benefit nearly every athletic program on campus.

Baugh said the facility will help teams avoid disruptions caused by heat, rain and lightning concerns while creating more flexibility for practices and workouts throughout the school year.

“I just think for our entire athletic program, it’s going to be invaluable,” Baugh said. “You don’t have to alter what you’re doing because of heat, rain or weather in the area.”

The facility includes a full soccer field layout, baseball and softball inlaid bases and divider nets that allow multiple sports to use the space simultaneously. Baugh also pointed to the convenience of having the facility located next to the school’s weight room.

“If the baseball team or softball team in the fall time are going to lift weights first, they don’t have to drive across town to go to their facility,” Baugh said. “They can go right outside and do skill development stuff with those coaches without losing all that time driving.”

Baugh also said the building could eventually serve the broader Ruston community by hosting elementary school field days, Special Olympics events and other activities that often face weather-related interruptions.

“I just think there’s a wide variety of things we’re going to be able to use it for besides football,” Baugh said.

On the field, Ruston has recently welcomed back several baseball and track athletes who missed portions of spring practice because of postseason competition. Baugh said the return of veteran skill players has been noticeable.

“I think our returners offensively that we’re really going to lean on all year are showing the things we felt like they could do,” Baugh said. “At the end of the day, stars and scholarship offers are nice to have, but those things don’t make the plays — the kids have to go out and make the plays they need to make.”

Baugh said the Bearcats are working several new faces into the lineup, especially along the offensive and defensive fronts, and he has been pleased with the team’s overall work ethic.

“I think our kids are taking advantage of the opportunities we have to get better,” Baugh said. “Whether it’s spring practice, weight workouts or 7-on-7s in the summer, I think right now I’ve been pleased with what they’re doing to get better every day.”

Ruston will continue spring practice this week before hosting Captain Shreve in a scrimmage Thursday at James Field at Hoss Garrett Stadium.

A freshmen intra-squad scrimmage will begin at 5:15 p.m., followed by the varsity scrimmage at 6 p.m. Admission is $5.

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BATON ROUGE, La. — Ruston High School turned in a strong showing this weekend at the 2026 Class 5A State Track & Field Championships at LSU’s Bernie Moore Track Stadium, highlighted by a state championship, multiple runner-up finishes and a school record.

The Lady Bearcats’ 4×800-meter relay team of Maddy Parkman, Madison Morris, Eden Dawsey and Hallie Hebert captured the Class 5A state title with a time of 9 minutes, 36.48 seconds.

“This was an unforgettable weekend for our program,” Ruston coach Trey Smith said. “Our athletes competed with heart, toughness and determination against the best competition in the state, and they delivered in a major way.”

T’Avion Clark added one of Ruston’s top individual performances, finishing as state runner-up in the girls 400 meters with a personal-best time of 54.67. Clark also helped the Lady Bearcats’ 4×400 relay team of Mattison Russell, Megan Modest, Clark and Dawsey finish second while breaking the school record with a time of 3:51.59.

Journi Douglas also earned state runner-up honors, placing second in the discus with a throw of 134 feet, 4 inches. She added a fifth-place finish in the shot put at 35-0.5.

On the boys side, Ahmad Hudson scored in two events, finishing fourth in the discus with a personal-best throw of 156-8 and sixth in the high jump at 6-1.5.

Joshua Daulton finished eighth in the 1,600 meters in 4:27.20, while Al-Amin Wilson placed ninth in the 3,200 meters in 9:55.22. The boys 4×800 relay team of Wyatt Hancock, Taylor Roller, Cooper Slate and Preston Parker finished eighth in 8:15.10.

Smith said the Bearcats had to overcome difficult conditions throughout the weekend, including lightning delays, events pushed back more than two hours and several field events moved indoors.

“Even with the challenging environment, our athletes never backed down,” Smith said. “They competed with grit, composure and relentless effort from the first event to the final relay.”

Smith said the weekend reflected the commitment shown by Ruston’s athletes and coaches throughout the season.

“We could not be more proud of this group and everything they accomplished,” Smith said. “The future of our program is incredibly bright, and this team has set a tremendous standard moving forward.”

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Courtesy of JOURNAL SPORTS

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Choudrant resident Sam Burns carded the second-best round of his 2026 PGA Tour season Sunday, with a 7-under 64 matched by only one other player in the 72-man field at the Truist Championship at Quail Hollow Golf Club.

It was the final round before this week’s PGA Championship, the Tour’s second major, outside of Philadelphia at Aronimink Golf Club.

Burns, 29, scuffled for the first three rounds last week, but sparkled Sunday to finish with a 74-69-75-64 – 262 card, 2-under for the Truist, good for a 37^th place tie and an $82,000 check. It raised his season purse winnings to $2.4 million with eight cuts made in 11 starts.

The 64 was his best round in three months, since a 63 to begin the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am Feb. 12.

Burns overcame a bogey on each side with seven birdies and an eagle Sunday.

He rallied with birdies on the heels of both bogeys, at Nos. 7 and 13. He reeled off three straight birdies on 14-15-16, and finished with another on the difficult 18^th, draining a 17-foot putt, one of his four birdie makes from between 10-18 feet.

Norway’s Kristoffer Reitan was the surprise winner at 15-under, in only his third PGA Tour start.

Burns, a Shreveport native who now plays out of Squire Creek Country Club in Choudrant, stands 30^th in FedEx Cup rankings and 31^st in the Official World Golf Rankings after Sunday.

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Each Monday through Friday, the Lincoln Parish Journal will post a list of non-for-profit upcoming events happening in the parish. If you would like to add your event to this list or advertise your for-profit events, please email us at lpjnewsla@gmail.com. 

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

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Tuesday, May 12
6:30 a.m.: Veterans free breakfast (VFW Post 3615, 206 Memorial Dr.)
10 a.m.: Storytime : Asian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month (Lincoln Parish Library)
11 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Hamburgers for Hunger fundraiser for 5 Loaves 2 Fish Ministry at the Ruston First Baptist Church parking lot (corner of Trenton and Texas). Tickets are $10 and available from board members and Origin Bank locations in downtown Ruston and on N. Trenton St. Tickets will also be available on site.
4 p.m.: Crafternoon : Cherry Blossom Bubble Wrap Paintings (Lincoln Parish Library)
6 p.m.: Video-Led Exercise class (Lincoln Parish Library Events Center)
7 p.m.: Lincoln Parish Police Jury meeting (Lincoln Parish Courthouse)

Wednesday, May 13
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, May 14
9:30 a.m.: Piney Hills Quilt Guild meeting (Grace Methodist Church)
11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Kiwanis Club lunch and program (Trinity Methodist Church fellowship hall)
4 p.m.: Tween Time : Chinese Drum Craft (Lincoln Parish Library)
6 p.m.: Teen Time : Trivia Night (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 p.m.: La Tech baseball

Friday, May 15
10 a.m.: Grambling State University spring graduation (Hobdy Assembly Center)
4 p.m.: Family Fun Friday : Movie Night: Moana 2 (Lincoln Parish Library)
6 p.m.: LA Tech baseball

Saturday, May 16
9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Farmers Market
1 p.m.: LA Tech baseball

Monday, May 18
11:30 a.m.: Lunch on Us (Presbyterian Church, 212 North Bonner Street., Ruston) — everyone welcome
5:30 p.m.: Friends of Lincoln Parish Library Fall Community Garage Sale Registration Opens (Lincoln Parish Library)
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, May 19
10 a.m.: Storytime : Breakfast (Lincoln Parish Library)
4 p.m.: Crafternoon : Waffle Prints (Lincoln Parish Library)
6 p.m.: Video-Led Exercise class (Lincoln Parish Library Events Center)
6:30 a.m.: Veterans free breakfast (VFW Post 3615, 206 Memorial Dr.)

Wednesday, May 20
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, May 21
11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Kiwanis Club lunch and program (Trinity Methodist Church fellowship hall)
4 p.m.: Tween Time :  Ice Cream Ball and Cup Game (Lincoln Parish Library)
5 p.m.: Library Board of Control Meeting (Lincoln Parish Library)
5:30-8 p.m.: Ruston Art Ramble (Downtown Ruston)
6 p.m.: Southern A’Chord Chorus rehearsal (Presbyterian Church fellowship hall, 212 N. Bonner St.; open to all women singers)
6 p.m.: Teen Time : Salt Shaker Craft (Lincoln Parish Library)
6:30 p.m.: Books & Bites Book Club; registration required 318-513-5510 (Lincoln Parish Library at Chili’s Bar & Grill)

Saturday, May 23
9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Farmers Market
9:30 a.m.: Louisiana Tech Graduation for College of Applied and Natural Sciences, Business, and Education and Human Sciences
10 a.m.- 4 p.m.: Board Game Meetup hosted by local experts (Lincoln Parish Library)
10 a.m.: Designing a Small Butterfly Garden by North Central Louisiana Master Gardeners (Lincoln Parish Park Children’s Playground Area)
2:30 p.m.: Louisiana Tech Graduation for College of Engineering, Liberal Arts

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

Louisiana Tech secured its fourth consecutive Conference USA series victory over the weekend, taking two of three games from Liberty on the road before narrowly missing out on a sweep Sunday at Liberty Baseball Stadium in Lynchburg, Virginia.

The Diamond ’Dogs (31-22, 17-10 CUSA) opened the series with back-to-back wins of 9-3 and 9-6 before Liberty (36-16, 19-8) salvaged the finale with a 3-2 victory.

The series win improved Louisiana Tech to 10-2 all-time against the Flames and 6-0 at Liberty Baseball Stadium.

Tech opened the weekend Friday by scoring three runs in the third inning and never looking back in a 9-3 victory.

After the first six Bulldogs were retired in order, Wesley Scott drew a leadoff walk in the third before Casey McCoy and Colby Lunsford helped load the bases. Trey Hawsey drove in the game’s first run with an RBI groundout before Colton Coates added a two-run single to give Tech a 3-0 lead.

Liberty answered with two runs in the bottom half of the inning, but the Bulldogs created separation in the sixth as Sebastian Mexico delivered a two-run single to extend the advantage to 5-2.

Tech added four insurance runs over the final two innings, including a two-run double by Matt Houston in the eighth and RBI singles from Hawsey and Eli Berch in the ninth.

Luke Nichols earned the win in relief while Thomas Allen tossed three scoreless innings for his fourth save of the season.

Coates, Mexico and Houston each drove in two runs while Coates, Hawsey and McCoy all recorded multiple hits. Houston extended his hitting streak to 10 games while Hawsey pushed his reached-base streak to 20 contests.

The Bulldogs clinched the series Saturday with another fast start in a 9-6 win.

Tech jumped ahead 3-0 in the opening inning behind RBI hits from Berch and Mexico before Houston capped the frame with an RBI ground-rule double.

The Bulldogs stretched the lead to 6-1 by the fifth inning as Mexico and Houston each added sacrifice flies.

Liberty rallied in the seventh with a grand slam to pull within 6-5, but Louisiana Tech answered immediately in the eighth.

Lunsford walked and Hawsey doubled before Berch delivered a two-run single to center. McCann Libby later added an RBI double off the left-field wall to push the lead back to four runs.

Hudson Rowan earned the win after allowing three runs over six innings while Riley Fisher picked up his team-leading fifth save.

Berch paced the Bulldogs offensively with his first four-hit game at Louisiana Tech while driving in three runs and scoring three times. Coates added three hits and scored three runs while Hawsey also collected a multi-hit performance.

Liberty avoided the sweep Sunday by holding Tech to six hits in a 3-2 victory.

The Flames scored two runs in the second inning and added another in the third to build a 3-0 advantage before the Bulldogs answered in the fifth.

Cade Patterson and McCoy opened the inning with singles before Lunsford drove in Patterson with a double off the left-center field wall. Hawsey followed with a sacrifice fly to cut the deficit to 3-2.

Tech was unable to capitalize further as the tying run was stranded at third base. The Bulldogs managed only one more baserunner over the final four innings.

Lunsford led Louisiana Tech with three hits while Hawsey extended his reached-base streak to 22 games and Lunsford pushed his streak to 21. Berch’s 19-game reached-base streak ended with an 0-for-4 performance.

The Bulldogs return home this weekend to close out the regular season against Sam Houston at J.C. Love Field at Pat Patterson Park.

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Funeral services for Sheree Lynn Grant Murray, age 72 of Lilly, LA will be held at 11:00 AM, Monday, May 11, 2026 at Owens Memorial Chapel with Rev. Michael Murray officiating. Burial will follow in the Hamilton Cemetery in Dubach, LA under the direction of Owens Memorial Chapel Funeral Home of Ruston, LA.

Sheree was born on March 18, 1954 in Los Angeles, California and she passed away at her home in Lillie, LA on Wednesday, May 6, 2026. Sheree married the love of her life, Eddie C. Murray, Jr. on August 12, 1971. They filled each day of their life with love and happiness until he went to see the Lord on December 5, 2021. Sheree was a member of First Baptist Church of Dubach. The top priority of her entire life was being the best wife, mother, and grammy. Everyone that knew her knew that was the most important thing in her life.

Sheree is survived by her sons, Trey Murray and wife Pat, and Brandon Murray and wife Kanya; grandson, Gavin Murray; granddaughter, Yvniyv Murray; and numerous nieces and nephews, cousins, and in-laws.

Serving as pallbearers will be Doonie Sellers, Andy Sellers, Cody Sellers, Reid Jennings, Corey Beckham, and Gavin Murray.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 AM until 11:00 AM, Tuesday at Owens Memorial Chapel.

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Memorial services for Theresa Ann Neff, age 70 of Ruston, LA will be held at 2:00 PM, Tuesday, May 12, 2026 at LifeChurch in Ruston, LA with Rev. Dallas Witt officiating. Theresa A. Neff was born on November 26, 1955 and was reunited with her husband in heaven on May 7, 2026.

Theresa had a spirit that was truly unmatched. She could be stubborn, sweet, and feisty all at once. And once her mind was made up, it usually wasn’t up for discussion. She always kept you on your toes and kept life interesting for those around her.

Anybody who knew Theresa knew she loved to look good. Her nails were always done, her lashes were always on, and she never met a bracelet or ring she didn’t love. She carried herself with style, confidence, and a personality that filled every room she walked into.

Her greatest pride and joy were her family. Her sons, grandchildren, and great-granddaughter were a constant source of happiness in her life. Though life changed in many ways after the loss of her husband, the love she carried for her family never faded. She treasured every visit, every conversation, every shared laugh, and every moment together.

Life brought Theresa her share of struggles and difficult seasons, but her family chooses to remember her laughter, her strength, and the love that still showed up in imperfect moments. They rest in the goodness and mercy of Jesus Christ, trusting fully in a God who sees every heart, knows every story, and welcomes His children home with grace.  

She was preceded in death by her father, George King, and her beloved husband, Randy. We can only imagine the joy of their reunion in Heaven, where every missed conversation is finally continued and every goodbye is replaced with joy.

Left to cherish her memory are her sons: Chad and Rusty (wife: Leslie); her grandchildren: Kaleb (wife: Claire), Christian, Cohen, and Charlie; her great-granddaughter, Scarlett; her brother: Ronnie King (wife: Sissy); her mother, Melba King; and her dearest friend, Ruby.

Theresa will be remembered for her big heart, her love of shiny things, and the way she loved her family. Her life was uniquely her own, and her memory will continue to live on in the people who knew and loved her most. And now, she rests in the presence of Jesus, fully known, fully healed, and fully at home.

Visitation will be held from 1:30 PM until 2:00 PM, Tuesday at LifeChurch.

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Sheree Lynn Grant Murray 
March 18, 1954 – May 6, 2026 
Visitation: Monday, May 11, 2026, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM, Owens Memorial Chapel 
Funeral Service: Monday, May 11, 2026, 11:00 AM, Owens Memorial Chapel 
Cemetery Committal: Monday, May 11, 2026, 12:30 PM, Hamilton Cemetery, 126 Hamilton Cemetery Road, Dubach 

Theresa Ann Neff 
November 26, 1955 – May 7, 2026 
Visitation: Tuesday, May 12, 2026, 1:30 PM – 2:00 PM, LifeChurch, 3000 S. Vienna St, Ruston 
Memorial Service: Tuesday, May 12, 2026, 2:00 PM, LifeChurch, 3000 S. Vienna St, Ruston 

Audra Fay Pesnell 
March 25, 1940 – May 8, 2026 
VisitationL Tuesday, May 12, 2026, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM, Choudrant First Baptist Church, 117 Oak Street, Choudrant 
Funeral Service: Tuesday, May 12, 2026, 11:00 AM, houdrant First Baptist Church, 117 Oak Street, Choudrant 
Cemetery Committal: Tuesday, May 12, 2026, 12:30 PM, Longstraw Cemetery, 1799 Styles Ranch Road, Choudrant 

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Courtesy of Experience Ruston

Experience Ruston (Ruston Lincoln Convention & Visitors Bureau) is proud to announce the Grambling State University Office of Student Affairs as the recipient of the 2026 Lincoln Parish Hospitality Award. The award was presented on May 7 during Experience Ruston’s annual Tourism Impact Breakfast in celebration of National Travel and Tourism Week.

The Lincoln Parish Hospitality Award recognizes an organization or individual who goes above and beyond to create a welcoming, engaging, and memorable experience for visitors to the community. This year’s recipient exemplifies that commitment through a transformative approach to one of the region’s most significant annual events – Grambling State University’s Homecoming Weekend.

Through its Department of Campus Activities & Student Engagement, the Office of Student Affairs introduced initiatives such as Yard Fest and the Ultimate Grambling Experience to intentionally elevate engagement across campus. Designed as a vibrant, community-centered, festival environment, these activations brought together students, alumni, faculty, local businesses, and community partners to celebrate the spirit of Grambling while strengthening connections across Lincoln Parish.

These efforts resulted in increased student engagement, strong participation throughout Homecoming Weekend, and a more unified and dynamic campus atmosphere. In 2025, the enhanced Homecoming experience welcomed more than 50,000 attendees, creating meaningful opportunities for local businesses, entrepreneurs, and stakeholders to engage directly with visitors and promote commerce.

“The Office of Student Affairs at Grambling State University has reimagined what hospitality can look like on a university campus,” said Tori Davis, Interim President & CEO of Experience Ruston. “Their intentional focus on creating inclusive, engaging experiences has not only enhanced a beloved tradition, but has strengthened the connection between campus and community in a way that benefits our entire parish.”

The initiative was driven by a vision to create a safe, welcoming space that fosters genuine connection while celebrating the culture, talent, and businesses of Lincoln Parish. By prioritizing a family-friendly atmosphere and intentionally integrating local partners, the Office of Student Affairs has established Yard Fest as a signature component of Homecoming and a model for future community-centered programming.

“Being recognized with the Lincoln Parish Hospitality Award is both an honor and a meaningful affirmation of the Office of Student Affairs’ commitment to serving our students and the broader community with excellence,” said Dr. Rudolph “Rudy” Ellis, Vice President of Student Affairs at Grambling State University. “This recognition reflects our intentional efforts to create inclusive, engaging, and impactful experiences that meet the needs of those we serve.”

Since 1999, Experience Ruston has recognized individuals and organizations that make a significant impact on Lincoln Parish through tourism and hospitality. The organization is honored to recognize the Grambling State University Office of Student Affairs for its leadership in creating experiences that foster connection, celebrate culture, and elevate the visitor experience.

 

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Courtesy report

RUSTON, La. — Hillcrest Elementary School second grader Charity Boney is headed back to Los Angeles after being selected as one of the top 10 students in the nation in the Braille Challenge.

Boney earned a spot in the national finals after placing first in the Apprentice Division at the Louisiana Braille Challenge. She also was named the Overall State Winner, posting the highest average score among all participants from first through 12th grade.

The national finals will be held in June in Los Angeles.

The Braille Challenge is an academic competition that tests students’ abilities in braille reading and writing, spelling, proofreading and comprehension. Finalists are selected by the Braille Institute based on their performance at the state level.

Boney’s achievement marks a significant accomplishment for Hillcrest Elementary and the Ruston community. School officials said her success reflects both her dedication and the support of her teachers and family while highlighting the importance of literacy and accessibility for students who are blind or visually impaired.

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Courtesy of Louisiana Tech University Communications

Louisiana Tech University is contributing to a cutting-edge technology that could transform how scientists understand and treat brain disorders such as depression, Parkinson’s disease, and addiction.

Dr. Elisa Castagnola, assistant professor of Biomedical Engineering, and her team in the College of Engineering and Science are part of an international research team that includes collaborators from Tulane University, LSU Health Shreveport, and the University of Genoa (Italy), whose findings were recently published in Advanced Functional Materials (AFM).

Firmly established as a top-tier materials science journal, AFM publishes breakthrough research across nanotechnology, chemistry, physics, and biology, and is widely recognized for its rigorous peer review, high-quality content, and strong impact within the global materials science community.

The team developed a novel nanomaterial-based coating that significantly enhances the performance of implantable flexible neural sensors. These advanced sensors can simultaneously detect key brain chemicals like dopamine and serotonin while also recording electrical activity. This dual capability provides researchers with a more dynamic picture of how the brain functions in real time.

The brain communicates through both electrical signals and chemical messengers, but most existing technologies can only measure one at a time. This innovation bridges that gap. The technology enables:

• Simultaneous detection of multiple neurotransmitters at extremely low levels

• Improved signal clarity, allowing more accurate and reliable data

• Stable, long-term monitoring in biological environment

These advances could lead to a better understanding of brain function and disfunction and more personalized treatments, as well as improved therapies for neurological and mental health conditions.

“This type of technology allows us to observe the brain in a much more integrated way,” said Castagnola. “By capturing both chemical and electrical signals at once, including multiple neurotransmitters simultaneously, we can begin to better understand the complex mechanisms behind neurological disorders and how treatments affect them in real time.”

Castagnola’s role in this research highlights the strength of COES in biomedical engineering and utilizes MXenes, an emerging class of nanomaterials synthetized by Dr. Naguib at Tulane University, combined with conductive polymers to dramatically improve sensor sensitivity, durability, and performance.

“Advanced Functional Materials is an internationally recognized journal with rigorous submission requirements. It is a testament to the world-class quality and importance of Dr. Castagnola and her collaborators’ work that it has been published in such a prestigious journal,” said Dr. Arden Moore, associate dean for research in COES. “This work also has clear potential to improve the health and quality of life for humanity overall such that its impact goes far beyond scientific discovery alone.”

As this technology continues to evolve, it holds strong potential for future clinical applications, including advanced brain-machine interfaces and more effective, personalized treatments for neurological disorders.

 

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FROM LINCOLN PARISH SHERIFF’S OFFICE

On May 6, 2026, the Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s Office became aware of a domestic incident involving one of our deputies that reportedly occurred over the weekend.

The complainant, who is in a relationship with Deputy Mason Gros, reported a physical altercation that allegedly occurred within the city limits of Ruston.

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Upon receiving the complaint, the Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s Office immediately notified the Ruston Police Department, which initiated a criminal investigation into the matter. Simultaneously, the Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s Office Internal Affairs Division began an administrative investigation.

During the course of the investigation, probable cause was established, and an arrest warrant was signed by a Third Judicial District Judge. Gros was subsequently terminated from employment with the Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s Office, arrested, and booked into the Lincoln Parish Detention Center on one count of domestic abuse battery.

Because this remains an active criminal investigation being handled by the Ruston Police Department, no further information will be released by the Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s Office at this time.

“Domestic violence is a serious and unacceptable crime, and it will not be tolerated under any circumstances — especially from someone sworn to protect this community and uphold the law. I hold all of my employees to the highest standards and any allegations of criminal behavior or violations of the public’s trust are taken very seriously and addressed appropriately,” said Sheriff Stephen Williams.

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

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

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By T. Scott Boatright

 

National Baseball Hall of Famer Yogi Berra may have said it best — “It ain’t over ‘til it’s over.”

But Cedar Creek sophomore third baseman Cason Floyd probably said it louder in the final inning Thursday night as he raced to snag a pop fly foul ball in front of the Riverside dugout to give the Cougars a 4-3 win over the Rebels in quarterfinals action of the Division IV Select School playoffs at Cougar Field.

It capped off a wild showdown that saw the third-seeded Cougars build a 4-0 advantage before sixth-seed Riverside rallied with a three-run sixth-inning to keep the game’s final outcome in doubt before Floyd found a foul ball hit sky high and watched as it fell into his glove.

The win advanced the Cougars to the state championship tournament in Sulphur for the first time since 2014, when Cedar Creek captured the Class 1A state title.

“There’s no greater feeling than just getting to see guys achieve what they’ve been trying to achieve with smiles on their faces,” said Cedar Creek coach Chad Yates. “These guys have been working their rear ends off. This school, and all of the people we have behind us — there is no better feeling. I’m going to be on this high for a little bit. 

“But everything goes to the team. They play the game between the white lines.”

Cedar Creek starting pitcher Kade Luker had already recorded nine strikeouts (he finished with 12) before he the Cougars’ offense ignited in the bottom of the fourth inning. Luker launched a three-run homer after designated hitter Drew Wade led things off with a walk before leftfielder Eli Slocum was hit by a pitch to put a pair of runners on base.

“The count was 2-0 and I was looking for the fastball,” Luker said of his home run. “I was just sitting back waiting on it. I knew right away it was leaving the park.”

Shortstop Conner Yates then walked and advanced to second base on a grounder before Conner Nichols provided what would be the game-winning RBI with a double.

Luker only faced three batters in the top of the fifth, adding another strikeout, before the Riverside bats finally heated up.

“Riverside was doing a good job of laying off some tough pitches,” Coach Yates said. “They laid off some pitches he usually gets swings on and that’s indicative of a team that deserves to be here. They made it to the quarterfinals last year and are a very good team.

“They executed the small ball, which is huge at this level, or any level for that matter. Then Kade got into a jam and Connor was able to come in and hold it down and finish it up. Next man up.”

That small ball play came in the form of a bloop bunt along the third base line after that Rebels had already scored a pair of runs.

Luker fielded the bunt and threw to catcher Brett Bell at home plate, but the Riverside baserunner who had been on third beat the throw to the plate, cutting the Cougars’ lead to one run.

“That’s their M.O. — what they train for, that they can get down and do,” Coach Yates said of Riverside’s third run. “It’s effective baseball. They executed it perfectly.”

Coach Yates admitted that the enormity of the game might have come into play.

“It was a playoff atmosphere,” Coach Yates said. “I wish I could say we played in this kind of atmosphere all season long so that we would have been immune to it. But this is the playoffs. The quarterfinals with a trip to Sulphur on the line. There’s no doubt the atmosphere — the tension — was getting there. But the team held in there. We’ve trained enough for those situations that they came through.”

Luker said it was all about staying positive at that point.

Riverside put a runner on base in the top off the seventh and final inning on a single, and by the time Cedar Creek got a second out that baserunner was standing on third and the atmosphere reached epic proportions.

But then came that final foul ball that set up Floyd’s spectacular catch to end the game.

“There was no bigger play — catch — than Floyd at third base,” Coach Yates said. “When you’re having to go in between what seemed like 30 guys around their dugout. There’s no bigger catch that he’s had in his career here.”

Luker led the Cougars at the plate, going two-for-three with three runs batted in.

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A woman was arrested last week following an incident in the roadway involving suspected narcotics and alleged battery, according to the Ruston Police Department.

Lashonta Vonshay Graham, 41, of Ruston, was taken into custody around 1:49 a.m. May 2 near South Farmerville Street and Cinnamon Lane.

A RPD report said Graham was seen walking in the middle of the roadway and was instructed multiple times to move out of traffic. According to the report, she continued walking and dancing in the roadway, causing traffic to slow.

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During the encounter, a records check showed Graham was wanted on bench warrants from Third District Court. A search located suspected MDMA (ecstasy) in Graham’s handbag. Graham reportedly stated she had picked it up and was taking it to someone.

Graham was transported to the Lincoln Parish Detention Center and booked for possession of MDMA and warrants for failure to appear in Third District Court for simple battery and entry or remaining on premises after being forbidden.

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

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

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