By Malcolm Butler

It’s been quite a year for Ben and Kirstyn Rosson.

One they won’t soon forget for a multitude of reasons, and one they both say has left them with a renewed sense of thankfulness.

Both Ben and Kirstyn faced potential life-threatening challenges during 2023. Yet as the Rosson’s celebrate Thanksgiving today, they do so with full hearts, a new outlook on life and baby No. 2 on the way.

“I’m definitely thankful to be able to be with family and spend time with my kid,” said Ben, who has a two-year-old little boy named Will. “I am thankful to be here for them.”

Their story is almost too unbelievable to be believable.

“It’s been a crazy year,” chuckled Ben. “My whole family is like, ‘Ya’ll stop doing whatever ya’ll are doing.'”

The year began one morning in February when Kirstyn experienced a seizure that left her and Ben looking for answers.

“I just woke up one morning and was getting ready to go to work and I just had a seizure in the restroom,” said Kirstyn. “There was nothing leading up to that (moment) that gave me any idea anything was wrong.”

Doctors in Shreveport thought Kirstyn may have Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy (PML), a rare infection that damages the material (myelin) that covers and protects nerves in the white matter of the brain.

In general, PML has a mortality rate of 30 to 50 percent in the first few months following diagnosis. Those who survive the disease may be left with severe neurological disabilities. Either way, the possibility wasn’t a good one.

“We didn’t know,” said Ben. “They just weren’t sure. We were scared.”

So, Ben and Kirstyn headed to Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota in early May to see world-renowned neurologist Dr. Mark Keegan.

“We got in touch with a neurologist up there, and he wanted her case,” said Ben.

After flying north and undergoing a multitude of tests, Dr. Keegan gave the Rosson’s the good news.

“He said it wasn’t PML,” said Ben. “He said it was a really bad lesion due to multiple sclerosis. She was in the hospital for three months. She had to learn how to walk, how to talk, everything all over again. One day it finally started clicking. And it all came back.”

“I spent a good bit of time in a Ruston rehabilitation hospital,” said Kirstyn, who underwent the rehabilitation from March through May. “There was a few months where I several issues. I had to relearn a lot of things, like walking and even using my hands. I probably got back right about the middle of June.”

Potential life-altering experience resolved, a blessing for sure.

But just when life for Ben and Kirstyn began to show some signs of normalcy, Ben got a work call on August 7 that almost cost him his life.

“They called in this job,” Ben said. “The power was out.”

The power was out around Princeton Place on White Street, coincidentally enough (and luckily) just a stone’s throw from Northern Louisiana Medical Center.

Ben, 25-years-old Farmerville native completing his sixth year working for the City of Ruston’s Power and Light Department, headed towards White Street along with his work partner Andy Sherrill.

Enter Angela Lewis, a complete stranger who was about to turn into Ben’s Guardian Angel.

Angela lives on White Street. But on that Monday morning, she was miles away at the Lambright Intramural Center.

A retired 70-year-old who spent more than two decades working at Northern Louisiana Medical Center, Angela said on most weekday mornings she attended the senior citizen exercise classes, including the water aerobics class at Lambright in order to “just strengthen” her muscles.

That strength would come in handy that day.

“That morning I went to water aerobics and when I got in the water, I kept hearing a voice saying ‘Go home. Go home. Go home,'” said Angela. “I was like, what? I didn’t understand it.”

But Angela headed to the premonition, got out of the water and headed home. Unbeknownst to her at the time, she drove right past Ben and Andy who had arrived at the site of the power outage.

“I went in the house and sat on the couch in the dark,” said Angela. “I was waiting because I didn’t know what was going on. I sat on the couch for a while. I just started crying, like something was wrong. I was just weeping. All the lights were off. No TV. No nothing.”

As Angela sat on her couch crying, Ben was outside attempting to remove a limb from the power line to try to restore power. His accounts of those moments and the days that followed come solely from others.

“I don’t remember that day,” said Ben. “I know what I was told about it, but I don’t remember any of it. I don’t even remember my first four days in the hospital.”

According to Ben, the power line was supposed to be dead.

“There was a three-pot bank. It’s a delta bank so all the phases are connected,” said Ben. “We didn’t realize it at the time. We didn’t think about that bank. So, the switch was open on the line I was on. It was supposed to be dead.

“A limb was hanging on it the line. I, apparently, tried to knock the limb off and untangle the wire, and the wire was wrapping back around. I reached back around and grabbed it to stop it, and that’s when it got me.”

What got Ben was 13,200 volts of electricity, more than enough to stop his heart.

“All of sudden the lights started blinking,” said Angela, who survived her own near-death experience when she spent a month in a coma in the ICU at NLMC due to a thyroid storm. “The TV came on. I heard this buzzing sound. I looked at my phone. I was like ‘What is that sound?’ I went to the door, and I heard a man’s voice say, ‘Help! Help! I need help!'”

Angela ran outside and that’s when Andy yelled to her that Ben had been electrocuted. As Andy lowered the bucket containing Ben’s limp body down, Angela waited ground level. Once the bucket was ground level, Angela said she used strength she didn’t even know she had to help lift Ben’s lifeless body out.

“At first all I could see was his red hair,” said Angela. “He was white as a ghost. I have never seen a ghost before, but I got him by his shoulders, and I just pulled him out. I began to pray and ask the Lord to help. I was like, ‘You are not going to die in my neighborhood on my time. No sir.'”

Ben’s heart had stopped. Death was a real possibility.

“From what I understand if a couple more minutes (had gone) by then I wouldn’t be here today,” said Ben. “My heart was not beating for five minutes. That’s crazy.”

Fortunately for Ben, in addition to Andy and Angela’s help, an ambulance was in the vicinity at Northern Louisiana Medical Center. It took EMTs just a minute to arrive on the scene once the 911 call was received.

Call it luck. Call it Divine Intervention.

“If there hadn’t been an ambulance at the hospital that close, I wouldn’t be here today,” said Ben. “I talked to (Andy) on the phone afterwards, and he said Angela was my saving grace because he couldn’t get me out of the bucket without her.”

Ben was transported to NLMC and stabilized, then airlifted to Oschner LSU Health in Shreveport where he remained for seven days. His injuries included burns on both hands and a blood clot in his lungs.

Almost four months later, the signs of the burns are almost gone, and Ben’s lungs and heart are well on their way to recovering. He has a doctor’s appointment next week and hopes to be cleared to return to work.

One of the first things he did after being released from the hospital was go back to the scene of the accident to meet Angela.

“I wanted to go meet Angela and talk to her,” said Ben.

“There was a couple of weeks where he was confused,” said Kirstyn. “His memory wasn’t good. Once he got his mind back right, I actually told him about Miss Angela and took him to her house. He got a chance to meet her.”

According to both Ben and Angela, the meeting had an impact for both of them.

“I told Ben that I didn’t know why God brought him back, but it’s for a reason,” said Angela, who received The Excellence Made Here Award from Ruston Mayor Ronny Walker and Fire Chief Chris Womack weeks after helping Ben.

Angela still humbly says she doesn’t understand why people made such a fuss over her actions that fateful day.

“I didn’t want to be treated like a hero,” said Angela. “I was like, ‘What did I do?’ You reap what you sow. I have a son. Anytime I see someone else’s son in trouble, I am going to jump in there and help. But give the credit to God. He was the one who worked through me.”

The word angel is part of Angela’s name. And as far as Kirstyn and Ben are concerned, it’s very fitting.

“She was his angel as far as I’m concerned,” said Kirstyn, who first met Angela in the emergency room the day Ben was electrocuted. “We are very thankful for Miss Angela. I am extremely thankful for her because she played a big role in keeping my husband here so that I could have a dad for both of our children and so I could still have a husband.”

As Thanksgiving arrives, Ben said life has a new, deeper meaning for he and his family.

“My wife and kids, my whole family … we are in church every Sunday,” said Ben. “I cherish the little things more. You never know what day will be your last. It’s been quite a year.”

One that Ben and Kirstyn are thankful to have lived to talk about.

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by Malcolm Butler

Kudos, Josh Brantley.

You made me eat my words.

Several times this fall, I had written and said that I felt the biggest question mark for the Ruston Bearcats and their chances of winning a state title lay largely on the right arm of Brantley.

With Jordan Hayes and Dylone Brooks providing a physical, explosive one-two punch in the backfield and Brantley running over defenders like a young Earl Campbell, the Bearcats had one of the top rushing attacks in the state.

A ground game that very few, if any, opposing defenses could slow down.

But what IF a team lining up on the opposite side of the field from the Ruston offensive unit COULD find a way to slow down the Bearcats ground attack? Could Brantley and the Bearcats make them pay through the air?

There were plenty of times this year, fair or unfair, that I didn’t think the answer would be yes. At times that strong right arm would misfire too often when Brantley was asked to throw.

It never cost Ruston in the Win column, mainly because of Ruston’s ground attack and stellar defensive unit.

Even Zachary head coach David Brewerton said postgame he felt that Broncos had the Bearcats right where they wanted them as they took Hayes and Brooks out of the equation.

“You have to credit Ruston,” said Brewerton. “Nobody thought they were going to come out and sling the ball around the field like they did. If you had told me before the game, ‘Hey Ruston is going to have to try to beat you throwing the ball’ … then I would have felt pretty good.”

However, Brantley’s own head coach knew his signal caller had it in him.

Jerrod Baugh told me numerous times this calendar year he believed in Brantley’s ability to throw the football and that his first year starter was making progress. But I still had my doubts, until Saturday night.

In the biggest game of the season with a state championship title on the line, Brantley threw for a season-high 194 yards while completing 11 of 19 passes. Sure. Brantley rushed for 134 yards and three scores too, but it was his ability to make some big-time throws in some big-time moments that I thought proved to be the difference in a big-time game.

Zachary showed they could slow down Hayes and Brooks. Heck, stop them if we are being honest. Hayes carried it 12 times for three yards and Brooks added five carries for 14 yards. That’s 17 totes for a total of 17 yards for what has proven to be the Bearcats bread and butter this year.

No need to worry Bearcat fans, Josh Brantley was out to prove his critics wrong. Brewerton. Me. Everybody who doubted him.

He made Zachary believers.

“He’s pretty talented,” said Brewerton. “He’s a pretty talented guy.”

Yes, coach Brewerton. Yes he is.

Brantley’s favorite target on the night was senior wide receiver Logan Malone, who hauled in 5 passes for 112 yards. However, the first big play through the air came in the first quarter on a slant to Jamar Woods who carried the ball 33 yards down to the Zachary 5-yard line, setting up a 27-yard field goal by Jack Elliott and an early 3-0 lead.

It wouldn’t be Brantley’s last explosive play through the air.

With the two teams tied at 10-10 coming out of the locker room for the third quarter, Brantley and the Bearcats began to throw on early downs. It paid dividends.

Brantley and Malone hooked up on four pass plays on the opening drive of the third quarter, covering 9, 27, 5 and 20 yards to drive the football down to the Broncos 5-yard line. And on fourth down and goal from the 3-yard line, Brantley ran a power counter off the left side of the Bearcat offensive line, and broke the goal line for a TD and a 17-10 Ruston lead.

It was a man’s run that culminated a mostly aerial drive.

“I think that is something that has been a progressive growth process for us through the year,” said Baugh. “It’s something we knew Josh was capable of doing. When we put gameplans together … we want it all to work together to win ball games.

“A lot of time through the year it’s not necessarily the fanciest of game plans … everybody wants to see you throw it all around and score a bunch of points. We just want to win. And so we do whatever is necessary. Josh absolutely made the plays tonight that we absolutely needed to have in the second half.”

Another one of those plays was a 51-yard strike to Malone late in the third quarter that set up the Bearcats’ next touchdown — a Brantley 9-yard run giving Ruston a 24-17 lead.

Brewerton admitted that Ruston’s ability to consistently hit big plays through the air was a surprise and one of the differences in the ball game.

“You start getting eyes looking in the backfield,” said Brewerton. “And next thing you know you are getting hit over the top. It’s one of those things where you pick your poison with a group like that from Ruston.”

As I watched Brantley on the field and even on the sideline, he never looked anything but confident and determined. The moment never looked to big for him.

At one point late in the third quarter, I walked up to Josh’s dad, Jonathan, and told him, “Josh is sure answering my question tonight.”

Josh gave his dad credit in the postgame press conference.

“There were a lot of people going into this season that doubted me,” said Brantley. “(My dad) was the one that said, ‘You got it, Josh. You got it, Josh.'”

Josh definitely got it.

The final nail in the Zachary coffin came with under two minutes to play and the Bearcats facing a fourth-down-and-8 from the Broncos 24-yard line. Ruston led 24-17 and didn’t want to give the football back to a dangerous Zachary team.

Following a timeout, the Bearcats faked the toss to Hayes and Brantley kept it on a naked bootleg, racing 24-yards untouched to the end zone to seal Ruston’s first state title since 1990.

In the postgame press conference Brantley said he pleaded with the Bearcats coaching staff during the timeout to let him keep it on the fourth down play.

Baugh laughed when he was asked about it.

“I don’t think Josh really has to say anything,” said Baugh. “I think we know with him. Your best playmakers want to be there to make plays. And Josh has been that for us.”

And he was on Saturday night.

Kudos, young man.

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By Kyle Roberts

Stifling summer heat aside, middle school football fans on Aug. 31 packed out Ruston Junior High’s stadium to watch a pair of games: the seventh graders against sixth grade I.A. Lewis and the eighth graders against Calvary Baptist from Shreveport.

“This was the first year that I know of that RJHS and I.A. Lewis have played each other,” Ruston Junior High head coach Hilton Hay said of his seventh graders’ 22-6 win. “It brought a really big crowd which was awesome to see. I felt like both teams played very well. Our seventh grader Anthonie Tobin scored all three touchdowns for us, and I’m looking forward to seeing what both of these teams do for us next year.”

Not to be outdone, the eighth graders won a nail-biter over Calvary Baptist 16-8 on a last second touchdown pass from Aiden Adams to Max Pyles.

“I thought the defense did a really good job of containing them to one score,” Hay said. “Offensively, we struggled to hold onto the football, but that’s something we can work on and fix. It was a good start to the season, and the team showed a lot of promising things to build on.”

A proud Ruston High graduate and former football player himself, Hay is in his second season as the head coach for the seventh and eighth grade RJHS Bearkits after spending time at the high school level for his alma mater.

And while Ruston High head coach Jerrod Baugh may be focused on the varsity season that is now in full swing, it’s equally important for him to have a handle on how these future Bearcats fared last week and into their own 2023 season and to be supportive of Hay in his role as the head coach of the Bearkits.

“A lot of people have this idea that they’re “just” coaching at the junior high,” Baugh said. “But it absolutely is one of the most important jobs; in fact, probably the head job down there may be even more important than mine in some ways because it can be majorly beneficial to the high school or detrimental, depending on who that person is and what they have going on.”

In fact, one of Baugh’s first acts as the new head coach nearly seven years ago was to develop a more streamlined approach from I.A. Lewis, to Ruston Junior High to the high school. And it required an overhaul in the change of philosophy at a time when the new high school head coach did not have the multiple winning seasons and a state title run to back up the changes.

For Baugh, having one junior high here in Ruston lended itself to implement the strategy of unifying the schools’ approach to the similar playbooks and similar game plans.

But, as with any change, there was resistance in the beginning.

“I think there was a lot of question on what the purpose was or maybe what the feeling was on (making the changes),” Baugh said. “There was a lot of pushing and shoving on that at first. I will say one thing about not just Ruston, but any place, is that you’ll have people supportive until you starting changing stuff or changing people’s roles. Some people had to be moved around or some moved away. It’s not always an easy thing to do.

“But at the time, I did not say that my way was the only right way; instead, I thought if we screwed it up all in the same direction, at least we’re headed in the same direction. It took a little while to get people on board that were bought into what we’re doing.”

Baugh’s previous stint as a head coach in Texas was ultimately why he recognized the importance of engaging the middle school

“It was something I did out of necessity,” Baugh said. “In Gladewater (Baugh’s previous head coach position prior to Ruston), we were in a really tough district with Carthage and Gilmer. It was tough sledding in there.

“I had to try to figure out how to get this program that had not been very good at all and not even making the playoffs. So it took a lot to figure out what we needed to do. And I had brought a junior high coach with me over there to Gladewater from Longview. We worked really close to figure out what how to try to get things going between the junior high and high school at the time.”

Baugh took that same approach to back in 2017 by going to the RJHS administration to pitch his idea of having the high school program be more involved with the junior high, who was willing to try it.

“I wanted to try something on a preliminary basis,” Baugh said. “I wanted their coaches to come be in the room with us and come watch what we do anytime the high school coaches were there. That was the first stage of trying to get the seventh and eighth grade going.

“At the end of the day, everybody was trying to do what was best for the kids.”

For Hay, the relationship between the schools that was fostered those years ago has only improved and blossomed for his crew.

“I think we have a great relationship,” Hay said, as he starts his second season at the Bearkit head coach. “Starting in the summertime, we meet to get ready for the new season and what they’re expecting from the junior high level. We communicate on summer workouts and summer conditioning. We’re all involved in the kids’ camp; junior high all the way up. And then we have a coach’s retreat, where we get together and discuss fall practice and more on what the high school wants to get from the junior high.

“Through the season, we communicate all the time. Maybe not everyday, because they are obviously busy, but there’s probably four or five of the coaches that come to our home games; and there are even some who come to the away games. And after the high school season ends, they’ll be over here every Thursday to watch workouts.”

The results spoke for themselves: last year’s 2022 squad had the first class of seniors that benefitted from Baugh’s new approach and made their way to the Super Dome, ended West Monroe’s three-decade winning streak over the Bearcats and taking the 2-5A District title.

Now a defensive tackle for Northwestern State, Christian Davis anchored the defensive line for Ruston last season was one of those seniors who remembers what it was like to be invested in early on by the high school when he himself was a middle-schooler.

“It was help for us to build our chemistry early on,” Davis said. “The coaches would come watch up practice and work out. We would run similar defensive schemes that were simplified for junior high players. But we would also get together on Friday nights and go watch the high school games together.

“I thought that was a big part of being connected with older groups and getting to spend time with them.”

Anytime there are shifts in culture, there are inherent risks. But thankfully, the payoff has been worth it, and Hay sees the results in the big picture.

“I believe the biggest difference is the kids being prepared when they get there and understand what is expected of them, instead of going through the motions as a junior high and then making that jump,” Hay said. “We get to discuss with the kids what things are going to be like when they get to the high school.

“They understand it all more than they did before; that’s been a big difference since Coach Baugh has been around.”

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The Zion Hill Baptist Church in Ruston was burglarized last Thursday, according to police.

Ruston Police said the break-in occurred between 9:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. According to the church pastor, an unknown person damaged a side door to make entry into the church. The door frame metal appeared to have been cut to allow for the deadbolt to be opened.

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The suspect then moved through the church, collecting two wireless microphones, a laptop, a cell phone, and cash. No other items have been reported stolen at this time.

The pastor reported several room doors were damaged when they were forced open, and several cabinets left open which appeared to have been rummaged through.

The church is located at 502 Lee Avenue just east of the rear entrance to Louisiana Delta Community College.

Information on this crime or any other crime in Lincoln Parish can be submitted to Crimestoppers at 318-255-1111.

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I have a friend who does not make resolutions at the beginning of the year. Their stated position is very correct. “Why pile up a bunch of promises at the beginning of the year? Why not make resolutions every morning for that day. See if you can keep a resolution for one day.” I have often suspected that New Year’s resolutions are a way of gaining control over tomorrow. We are, in essence, saying to God this is MY plan for the year. What if we resolved to live each day, abiding in Christ? My friend’s philosophy seems very Jesus like. Jesus told us to pray for our daily bread and reminded us that there is little sense in worrying about tomorrow. Wake up every morning and follow Jesus for that day. See how you do!

The problem with resolutions and all those resolutions we re-resolve in Lent is that we know we won’t keep them. We make them and play such games with our own resolve. What does that say about us?

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When I did make resolutions, they began on January 2^nd. That way I can have as much fun as I wish to have on New Year’s Day then on January 2^nd the change begins. I resolved one year that I would quit making resolutions because by March I seemed to have forgotten what I had so boldly resolved in January. My friend is correct in resolving every day to live for Christ. I want you to note that as a culture the notion of resolve is fading. The hard truth is there is no change in our lives until there is resolve in our lives.

This year my beginning of the year pondering revolves around the concept of ETM. King Solomon said, “Where there are no oxen, the stable is clean, but a good harvest requires the strength of the ox.” (Proverbs 14: 4)

I think Solomon was saying, if you want good things to happen in life, you must “endure the manure.” You can only have a clean stable by getting rid of the oxen. If you remove the oxen, then you remove the ability to obtain a bountiful harvest. The very “tool” that helps bring you success also makes a very big mess. That is the essence of ETM (endure the manure).

ETM means that the good things in life don’t come easily. You must work for them. Do you want a better career? In most cases, forty hours will not bring you financial riches or success. Do you want a great marriage? Well, that means using muscles other than the ones that hold on to the remote control. It means paying as much attention to our spouse as you do to your social media presence. Do you want to be a great parent? Great parents are involved in every aspect of their child’s life. They also reclaim the parental word, “No.” Now we have created competing loyalties between career, marriage, and family. ETM means you struggle to be faithful in the middle of that conflict.

Do you want your spiritual life to grow? You must ETM. That means when you pray, listen to God for 30 minutes rather than begging him for something for three minutes. It means loving God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength. It means loving your neighbor as yourself. Loving those neighbors can be the hard part of our Christian walk. Loving your neighbor can be messy!

ETM is my aiming point for 2024. To be a better person and to have a bountiful harvest you and I need to “endure the manure.”

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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. 

Sunday, Dec. 31
New Year’s Eve

Additionally, Ruston City Hall and the Utility Billing Office will also be closed on Monday, Jan. 1 in observance of New Year’s Day. Garbage pickup for Jan. 1 residential city of Ruston routes will be picked up on Wednesday, Jan. 3. There will be no commercial garbage and trash collection during these closures. 

For emergency utility services, call 318-255-1316. 

Lincoln Parish Schools’ classes will resume Monday, Jan. 8. 

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BATON ROUGE, La. – Louisiana State Parks invites you to begin 2024 on a healthy note by getting in your daily step count at your local state park in conjunction with America’s State Parks’ First Day Hikes project. The First Day Hikes project offers individuals and families an opportunity to begin the New Year connecting with the outdoors by taking a hike for health.

“Start the new year on the right foot with a First Day Hike at one of our Louisiana State Parks or Historic Sites. Hiking is a great way to get outside, connect with nature and get physically active,” said Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser.

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These events are part of a wider initiative of “First Day Hikes” held by state parks around the country. First Day Hikes began more than 30 years ago at the Blue Hills Reservation state park in Massachusetts. Since 2012, all 50 states have participated. America’s State Parks hopes to make 2024 a record-breaking year as the annual event approaches major milestones, including inching closer to 1 million miles hiked and 500,000 participants in the program’s history.

Folks looking for a challenge will love the ranger-guided hike at Poverty Point World Heritage Site where participants will hike to the top of Mound A, explore the earth works and nature found in the park. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy the Sam Houston State Park hike led by Southwest Master Naturalist Barbara Morris.

For a full listing of events and to plan your First Day Hike in 2024, visit the Louisiana State Parks First Day Hikes event webpage. Share your hiking story on social media with #FirstDayHikes and #LAStateParks.

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By T. Scott Boatright

 

After a somewhat sluggish start against bigger-school competition, the Lincoln Preparatory School boys basketball team marched to a pair wins on Wednesday and Thursday to continue the Panthers’ holiday celebrations heading into the new year.

The Panthers roared past Oak Grove 52-25 on Wednesday before dominating West Ouachita 56-26 on Thursday.

“We needed those wins heading into the new year, which in some ways is kind of the start of a new season,” said Panthers coach Antonio Hudson. “We’re still starting to pull together as a team a little bit, and that’s good to see.

“Now we still have a lot of work to do and a long way to do, but it was good to see the team get those wins and especially play as well defensively as they did.”

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Panthers 52, West Ouachita 25

Lincoln Prep took control early and never let up, using a smothering defense to shut down West Ouachita Thursday afternoon at the Sterlington High School gym.

The Panthers led 14-5 at the end of the first and 31-15 at halftime of the 27-point win over the Tigers.

Trey Spann was the workhorse for Lincoln Prep, finishing with 22 points, seven rebounds, four steals, three assists and a blocked shot.

Devin Burton added nine points, two boards and a steal for the Panthers while Stephen Burks III chipped in with nine points, two rebounds and a steal while Trumarion Smith added six points, four steals, three rebounds and three steals.

Nick Nelson topped the Panthers on the boards with eight rebounds and a blocked shot along with three points.

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Panthers 56, Oak Grove 26

Devin Burton double-doubled for the Panthers on Wednesday to lead the Panthers to a 30-point win over Oak Grove at the Sterlington High School gym.

Burton totaled 18 points and 15 rebounds while adding six steals and four assists for the Panthers.

Lincoln Prep got off to another strong start in that contest, leading 21-7 at the end of the opening stanza and shutting out the Tigers in the second quarter for a 28-7 halftime advantage.

The Panthers then outscored Oak Grove 20-8 in the third quarter before Hudson emptied his bench to close out the fourth period.

Stephen Burks III added 15 points, seven rebounds, four steals and three assists for the Panthers.

Lincoln Prep, now 5-7, will next take a New Year’s break before the Panthers return to their home court on Jan. 5 to play host to Haynesville.

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Michael Terrell Prater 
Tuesday 09/26/1972 — Saturday 12/16/2023 Age: 51 
Visitation: Friday 12/29/2023 3:00pm to 5:00pm at King’s Funeral Home 
Celebration of Life: Saturday 12/30/2023 11:00am, New Hope Baptist Church, 204 W Vaughn Ave., Ruston 
Interment: Saturday 12/30/2023, Grambling Memorial Garden, Highway 80 West, Grambling 

Kevin A. Mitchell 
Wednesday 12/13/1967 — Tuesday 12/19/2023  
Memorial Service: Saturday 12/30/2023 2:00pm at King’s Funeral Home 

Rev. Charles Ralph Penuell 
June 19, 1944 – December 22, 2023 
Visitation: Saturday, December 30, 2023. 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM, Douglas Church, 1642 HWY 821, Ruston 
Memorial Service, Saturday, December 30, 2023, 1:00 PM, Douglas Church, 1642 HWY 821, Ruston 

Timothy C. Babcock 
October 7, 1950 — December 24, 2023 
Visitation: 9-10 a.m. Friday, Dec. 29, 2023, at Temple Baptist Church 
Funeral service: 10 a.m. Friday, Dec. 29, 2023, at Temple Baptist Church 
Burial: Forest Lawn Cemetery 

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The Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s Office took a man into custody on Bear Creek Road in the Stow Creek neighborhood northeast of Ruston Tuesday night after an hours-long standoff with authorities.

Jonathan O. Borders, 45, of Ruston, was arrested on warrants about 9:30 p.m. Tuesday after deputies responded to a residence in response to a call from a family member. Deputies were told Borders had not been seen in several days and that doors into the home had been barricaded. Borders allegedly denied the property owner entry into the house.

Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s Office (LPSO) spokesman Lt. Matt Henderson said that at the time, the agency held arrest warrants for Borders for aggravated assault with a firearm and simple battery stemming from a December 18 incident. Henderson said that case was not domestic-related.

The responding patrol deputies went into “barricade protocol” and the LPSO Special Response Team (SRT) was summoned to the scene about 4:00 p.m., according to Captain Brad Wall.

Wall said SRT responded and attempted to make contact with Borders. After extensive efforts to talk Borders out without a response, SRT forced access and entered the house.

Neighbors reported hearing authorities using a public address system attempting to talk Borders out of the house. Wall said a loud noise some neighbors may have assumed was a gunshot was instead the use of a device routinely used to breach doors.

Borders was found hiding in the attic, Wall said, and was taken into custody with only mild resistance.

Following his arrest, Borders was transported to the Northern Louisiana Medical Center for evaluation. After treatment, Borders was booked at the Lincoln Parish Detention Center on the warrants. Bail was set at $17,500.

Sheriff Stephen Williams told the Lincoln Parish Journal, “This was a very difficult call, but our team did an outstanding job safely removing [Borders] from the residence.”

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We are in a world of transactional relationships, transactional workplaces, and now transactional “amateur” athletics.  Transactional exchanges are a normal aspect of society.  One party provides something to another party for something in exchange.  There is nothing wrong with transactional exchanges.  The problem comes into play when relationships become transactional and when transactional becomes the prevalent operating system in our workplaces, in our organizations, and on our teams.

As opposed to transactional exchanges, consider transformational.  Transformational relationships value others without seeking anything in exchange.  Transformational workplaces become more than just a place to earn a living.  Transformational teams still recognize the value of team and culture. 

Since being back in Ruston for a little over two years now, I have seen some outstanding examples of transformational people and organizations.

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Walpole Tire was one of my first stops after moving to Ruston.  While waiting for some routine service on my car to be completed, I noticed one of the technicians come into the waiting area to discuss vehicle repair options with a customer.  The lady looked to be in her 70’s and was sitting near me.  The technician came over to her, knelt to be at her level while she sat, introduced himself to her, and explained the options to her.  He went above and beyond to make her comfortable.  That’s not the only time that I have seen such an encounter in Walpole Tire.  I am sure there are other great places to get a car serviced in Lincoln Parish, but I am so impressed with Walpole’s approach to customer service.

Utility Pizza is another example of a transformational environment where workers engage at a high level with customers.  My first visit there was outstanding.  Not only was the food great, but the workers did so much more than just take my order.  They created a friendly, upbeat environment that indicated that they were glad we came in.  Here again, there are other great places to eat in Lincoln Parish, but Utility will always be a go to place for me based on environment!

I have also been fortunate to spend some time with various classes at La Tech.  I have seen David Herda, accounting, and Kyle Roberts, marketing, relate to their students in a manner that goes well beyond just the teacher/student relationship.  I have seen plenty of transactional exchanges in the classroom, but these two go well beyond that level to transformational!  Transformational teaching goes beyond conveying facts to reach students in a manner that impacts their future.  

I have encountered various other examples as I have heard Kyle McDonald talk about Argent Financial Group’s purpose, Will Dearmon talk about his desire to develop leaders in the business community, and Jerry Baugh talk about impacting young men that he coaches at RHS.  We have transformational people and organizations throughout our community.  Their examples should be an encouragement for all of us to seek to not settle for transactional relationships or settle for just transactional organizations.  While we can’t (and don’t need to) eliminate every aspect of transactional exchanges, we do need to seek more transformational impact.  Transformational attracts people to your organization, customers to your business, young people to your university, and athletes to your team.  

As we move into a new year, where can you move from transactional to transformational?

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What a ride it was.

Head coach Jerrod Baugh and the Ruston Bearcats took our community on a memorable journey this year, capturing the 2023 Nonselect School Division I title with a 31-17 win over Zachary in the Caesar’s Superdome.

Baugh and the Bearcats captured the school’s ninth state title, its first since 1990 and they did so in a first-class fashion.

In recognition of the state title run, the Lincoln Parish Journal commissioned local graphic designer Courtney Pugh of Donnie Bell Design to create a commemorative edition and limited poster featuring photos from official GeauxPrep’s state title game photographer Josh McDaniel (FourSix3).

The poster is for sale with 25 percent of all proceeds going directly to the official Ruston Bearcat Football Club.

There are two unique versions of the 18 x 24 inch poster, each printed on 100-pound glossy:

a) a LIMITED edition ($75) with ONLY 75 copies available that features a gold gilded tint and a numbering system to differentiate each poster

b) a COMMEMORATIVE edition ($25) with an unlimited number of sales based on orders.

The posters will be available in late January-early February with additional details provided on pickup/sales dates and locations. However, orders are being taken now.

To order and secure a copy of either poster, email lpjmerchandise@gmail.com and include your name, email address, cell phone number, version of the poster (LIMITED or COMMEMORATIVE), and total number wanting to purchase. The LPJ will take orders on a first come, first serve basis and will continue to sell while supplies last.

The LPJ will take payment via credit card (an email invoice will be sent which can be processed by the buyer with a credit card) or cash. No checks will be accepted.

Don’t miss your chance to purchase this beautiful keepsake depicting the Bearcats title run in 2023. Email lpjmerchandise@gmail.com and include your name, email address, cell phone number, version of the poster (LIMITED or COMMEMORATIVE), and total number wanting to purchase.

Special thanks to Origin Bank and Forth Insurance for their support of this project.

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The Grambling Police Department arrested a 24-year-old woman last Monday evening after officers investigated an alleged domestic battery incident.

At about 6 p.m., officers investigated a complaint at a Greene Lane residence. The alleged victim told responding officers she had gotten into an argument with her sister that turned physical. She stated Kierra T. Kilson was upset that she could not find her houseshoes. Kilson blamed her for having the shoes, retrieved a hammer, broke a child’s table in half, threw items around the house, and shattered a mirror.

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The victim said she locked Kilson out of the house, but she went to the rear of the apartment and opened a window and threw the hammer, striking the victim in the shoulder. She said Kilson had left the home. The victim’s one-year-old child was in the residence at the time.

At about 9 p.m., the victim called again to report Kilson had returned to the residence. Kilson surrendered to responding officers and was arrested for aggravated domestic abuse battery with child endangerment.

Bail was set at $5,000.

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

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Two occupants of a vehicle stopped by the Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s Office Sunday were arrested on warrants and possession of marijuana.

At about 11 p.m., an LPSO patrol supervisor stopped a vehicle on LA Highway 33 for an equipment violation. The driver was identified as Gerald Buffett, 41, of Ruston. A records check showed Buffett was wanted on two warrants for failure to appear in Ruston City Court. He was placed under arrest and when asked if he had any marijuana on him, he stated it was hidden in his pants.

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A passenger in the vehicle, Shanika Branch, 38, of Grambling was wanted on two warrants for failure to appear in Ruston City Court and a warrant for failure to appear on an improper supervision of a minor by a parent charge from Third District Court.

When Branch was arrested, the deputy detected a strong smell of marijuana and Branch said she had marijuana hidden on her. The suspected marijuana was retrieved.

Both were taken to the Lincoln Parish Detention Center. Buffett was booked for possession of marijuana and the two warrants. His bail was set at $4,000.

Branch was booked for possession of marijuana and the three warrants. Bail was set at $8,000.

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

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This story was originally published on July 7, 2023.

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by Dusty McGehee

Friday, June 23, 2023, began as a great morning at my house.  I had the day off. The weather was nice and both boys were awake, so we decided to go sit on the back porch and watch a movie. Mae was still asleep.  Soon after, Rachel came out with a cup of coffee and relaxed in the rocking chair.  Mae (my Princess) wasn’t too far behind her.  I consciously remember looking around at my family at one point, and thinking this was perfection; boy was I ever wrong.

Mae enjoyed a few powdered donuts and then walked out of sight around to the front of the house to find Reese, one of our dogs.  A couple of minutes later, she rounded the corner with something in her grip.  Rachel saw her first and was stunned.  Mae was smiling, obviously proud of her accomplishment. I was squinting from the couch trying to identify what creature she had (from a distance, I assumed it was a lizard). 

She got to the porch, held up her trophy and said “Well look at what I have!  This little cutie just bit me!” We noticed it was a snake and immediately knew this was not a normal one.  In a split second, my brain comprehended the colors: black, red, yellow.  Red was touching yellow. In unison, Rachel and I both yelled “DROP IT!”

She did, and it slithered under the couch where the boys and I were sitting.  We jumped away from the couch and looked at Mae in disbelief at what she just said. 

“It bit you?!  Are you sure?!?,” we asked, panicked. 

“Yep!  Right here,” she replied, pointing to her thumb.  Sure enough, on the tip of her thumb are two small puncture marks, bleeding slightly. 

We started throwing pieces of the couch out of the way to get another look at the snake to confirm what we already knew. It was a coral snake. 

“Get her to the hospital NOW!” I yelled to Rachel, which prompted Mae to start crying. 

“What’s going to happen to me,” she cried. 

Uh oh, we knew she didn’t need to get upset. She needed to be as calm as possible.

I made a phone call as they loaded up to my cousin Jeff.  His son suffered a cottonmouth/water moccasin bite a couple of years ago, so I figured he knew the drill.  In a panicked voice I asked “Where did Jack go to get antivenom. Mae just got bit by a coral snake!?” 

He responded “St. Francis.”  I didn’t even say bye… at this point I knew seconds were crucial.  I relayed the information to Rachel and they raced to St. Francis. While they were on the way, I tried to find the snake to kill it and get a better picture as I knew the hospital would want to confirm.  But I couldn’t find it. I knew it was hiding somewhere in the patio couch.  I gave up, thinking my neighbor would be able to come over and kill it while we were gone.

I called St. Francis to let them know what happened and that Mae was on her way.  One last check outside before I headed to the hospital, and I spotted the snake.  Success.  It would never strike again. 

Mae was rushed back to the ER as soon as she arrived at St. Francis.  The staff was shocked to see that it was a coral snake that bit her.  It’s rare to see a coral snake, much less be bitten by one.  In all my years of being outdoors, I had never seen one until that day.  I asked about the antivenom, and they told us they didn’t have the proper antivenom for a coral snake.  They informed us we were being transferred to Children’s of Mississippi Hospital because they had a great toxicologist that was better equipped for the type of snake bite and an amazing PiCU, as the likelihood of her being intubated was high.  Yes, a breathing tube.

Our minds were racing.  “Wait…What??” Rachel and I were both thinking.  We could tell the swelling in her hand wasn’t getting any worse so why were we now talking about a breathing tube??  Well, coral snake venom is not like pit viper (copperhead, cottonmouth, rattlesnake) venom where your concern is bite site tissue swelling & necrosis.

It’s a neurotoxin.  It affects the person neurologically: muscle weakness, difficulty speaking, swallowing, breathing, etc.  It got real, real fast.

I headed back home to pack bags as Rachel and Mae were waiting on the helicopter. As I crossed over the Ouachita River, I saw the helicopter taking off from St. Francis and my heart sank.  The feeling of seeing my baby girl flying away from me was almost indescribable, and something I never want to experience again. 

They landed in Jackson a short time later and were whisked down to the ER.  Mae was given more pain meds and some anti-anxiety meds in the helicopter, so she was sort of out of it when they arrived.  The staff was concerned as this inhibited their ability to assess her neurological state.  The doctor decided to give her a few more minutes to come out of it so they wouldn’t intubate her unnecessarily.  Thank the Lord they waited. 

Mae began to wake up and was able to answer questions clearly and correctly.  It’s at this point she informed everyone that the snake bit her not just once, but three times: thumb, middle finger, and ring finger.  During this short time, it was like a parade through her triage room. 

Children’s of Mississippi Hospital is a teaching hospital so there were many future doctors coming to see the patient.  The staff informed us that we would be admitted to the PiCU and would be there at least 24 hours, but most likely longer.  They also told us the antivenom was on its way from the Memphis Zoo.  Yep, the zoo.  Before we headed upstairs, the ER doctor and I asked Mae if she planned on picking up snakes any time soon.  Her response surprised us both. “Just the green ones,” she said groggily.

Once in the PiCU, she had hourly neuro checks.  The staff told us if she had any neuro issues or difficulty breathing within 13 hours of the bite, she would be given the antivenom and possibly intubated.  The antivenom would not prevent any of the neurological or breathing issues but would (hopefully) stop them from worsening once they began.  We found out she could not have any pain medicine, food, or water.  Excruciating.  This was excruciating for us all.  She was in major pain, and it was painful for us to not be able to help.

After a very long day and night, the pain subsided, slightly.  She showed no signs of any neuro/respiratory issues and was cleared by three different doctors.  We were cleared to head west back home.  Thank God!  Mae was a little disappointed we had to take the car home and not the helicopter.

I know this story is long, but I hope there are some key lessons here:

1. Children picking up/playing with snakes is not a good idea. Sounds obvious, but they have seen me catch a few in the past. Mae thought it was ok.  This was not the first snake she had brought to me.  Every time I told her that was not the correct thing to do, and to wait for me to identify it before anyone got closer.  Obviously, the example I set was not the best, so watch what you do.
2. St. Francis appears to be the hospital to go to for your normal snake bites from our common venomous snakes. Knowing where to go could be the difference between life and death.
3. Teach your kids snake identification and to respect them. The saying “red on yellow kill a fellow, red on black friend of jack” that I was taught as a child sure helped with this incident.  Luckily the saying didn’t mention a Princess.

A few days later, Cousin Jeff had us over for dinner to celebrate Mae’s victory over the coral snake.  As we discussed the theories on why Mae was able to overcome this, Jeff spoke up and said, “You know why it turned out this way?”  I tried to guess using my biology and herpetology background on what I knew about snake bites, but he butted in before I could finish. “Prayers is what healed your baby girl.”

I couldn’t argue.  The prayers from our friends, family, and our entire community were overwhelming.  Every one of you is amazing, and we are forever grateful.  Thank you. I hope to never write a story like this again!

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This story was originally published on July 27, 2023.

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By T. Scott Boatright

Lincoln Parish native Nick Harrison has always seemed to take a “full-speed ahead, pedal-to-the-metal” approach to life.

The 42-year-old former teacher and Sports Talk 97.7 personality became well known and much beloved throughout north Louisiana for his quick wit and humorous musical lead-in segments for the Ruston-based radio station.

A graduate of Grambling State University’s Department of Visual and Performing Arts who went on to the master’s program in Speech/Theatre at Louisiana Tech also became an internet sensation for his comical TikTok videos.

But Harrison, who now lives in Hammond and is personality/account executive for ESPN 100.3 radio in New Orleans, has now gone nationwide by racing to victory on a recent episode of NBC’s “Hot Wheels Challenge,” a show on which two contestants transform ordinary vehicles into extraordinary Hot Wheels showstoppers, with their designs inspired by personal stories and pop culture touchstones.

Harrison’s design was based on the Chevrolet Monte Carlo his father drove when Harrison was a child.

“That car holds a special place in my heart and is truly a family affair,” Harrison said. “My parents were divorced and my father would come up from his home in Houston and we’d spend time in that car. Sometimes we’d take it back to Houston when I’d spend some time with him down there. And we spent a lot of time in it driving around north Louisiana.

“So that Monte Carlo has a sense of family for me, and ‘Hot Wheels Challenge’ allowed me to take that sense of family even further by carrying it over to the family I’ve created where I’m the father,” Harrison said. “And it’s that family I have now that led to the inspiration I used to create the car design.”

The end result was a tricked-out 1984 Monte Carlo with a Mardi Gras theme he named “Mardi Gras Mania.”

“I wanted a bold, vibrant, and loud car, like one you’d see in a Mardi Gras parade,” Harrison said. “Being from Louisiana, I wanted that to be part of the theme, and what’s more Louisiana than Mardi Gras?”

Harrison, who recently married into a combined family including his son and his wife’s children, said that fact also played a role in his car’s theme.

“Despite being from Louisiana, I grew up in Lincoln Parish,” Harrison said. “I had never been to a real Mardi Gras parade until early spring when my wife and I took our family to parades like Bacchaus in New Orleans. It was one of the first things we did together as a family. And it was amazing. Better than I probably expected, and definitely unforgettable. 

“So that was the inspiration behind wanting a Mardi Gras-theme for the car. At first we were going to go with purple, green and gold for the colors. But we ended up just sticking with gold for the car with purple and green lighting from underneath.”

While he was aided by “Hot Wheels” experts, Harrison’s also went “hands on” in helping create his car.

“That was something new to me, but I jumped right in there and it was fun,” Harrison said. “I grabbed tools and jumped right in. But the most fun in that part of it for me was probably gluing the Mardi Gras beads onto the steering wheel, because that just felt like it was helping create that theme — that mystique — behind the car I was looking for.”

Harrison said his Hot Wheels journey began early in 2023 when he heard about the competition and applied online. Then came virtual interviews before learning he had been accepted as a contestant.

“It was unreal when I learned I was going to be on the show — unbelievable,” Harrison said. “I’ve always been outgoing and love performing and that kind of thing. But this is on a whole new level. Just unbelievable.”

Those feelings only intensified when Harrison, a big fan of professional wrestling who has also been featured on Fox television’s  “WWE Friday Night Smackdown,” learned that pro wrestler Big E was going to be a guest judge on the show.

“That’s when it got super-surreal,” Harrison said. “Being a Michigan guy, he loves cars and I guess he seemed like a natural fit for the show. I had no idea that was going to happen — that he would be part of the show. Getting to meet him and know him a little was special and just another incredible aspect of this amazing journey.”

Harrison’s win not only garnered him $25,000, but also the potential opportunity to become one of three finalists that will be chosen for the show’s final two episodes, which will air on Aug. 1 and Aug. 8.

“No matter what happens, it’s already been an incredible journey and a dream come true,” Harrison said. “I’m just a fortunate guy from north Louisiana who’s been blessed in life. I’m just living the dream and enjoying the ride.”

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This story was originally published on August 14, 2023.

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By Malcolm Butler

Louisiana Tech skipper Lane Burroughs was the featured speaker for the opening ceremonies of the Dixie World Series that the City of Ruston hosted at the Ruston Sports Complex the past few weeks.

Burroughs spoke from his heart on back-to-back Friday nights as dozens of teams from around the nation converged on Ruston to play in their respective age groups Dixie Youth World Series.

A big stage for 10u and 12u teams, but one they have worked all summer to earn.

Burroughs was the perfect man for the job. After all, the Bulldog Boss knows a thing or two about playing in the Dixie World Series.

At age 14, the now-grizzled 50-year old and 15 of his Mississippi buddies represented Meridian and the entire Magnolia State in the 1987 Dixie World Series in Rock Hill, South Carolina. It was a hard-nosed group of 13- and 14-year olds. To this day, Burroughs and his buddies cherish and recall the experience as if it were yesterday.

They were bound by baseball.

“I got to carry the flag at the opening ceremonies at the field,” said Burroughs, referring to a ceremonial part of the opening ceremonies for the Dixie World Series. “You go put your flag up. As you lose, you go get your flag.”

Burroughs, who played centerfield for the Mississippi All-Stars, was team captain for a talented group that included numerous boys who would eventually play college baseball later in life.

Meridian is known for producing some great baseball players, including names like Oil Can Boyd, the Cole Brothers (Popeye, Greg, Michael, Brian), Jay Powell, Frank Baker. The list can go on and on.

“Meridian has a rich, rich history of baseball,” said Burroughs. “Baseball is a big deal in that community.”

Burroughs and his boys were just another in a long line of Meridian-based all-star teams that made noise in the Dixie World Series.

Bound by baseball.

“Back in those days 13-and 14-year old was called Babe Ruth, but it was basically Dixie boys baseball,” said Burroughs. “The two teams that came right before us from Meridian had made it to the World Series as well, but hadn’t won it. We felt like we were the team.”

And if the district and state tournament was any indication, they would be. The Meridian All-Stars ran through the sub-district tournament in Laurel and then the state tournament in Hattiesburg.

“I will never forget. We beat Clinton,” said Burroughs referring to the state tournament. “We were just mowing through every team. I remember that game. Ironically, the kid we beat on the mound that game (Patrick Nation) ended up being one of my college roommates at Mississippi College. His son, Connor, is coming to play for us this year. It was like 4-1. I can remember us being like, ‘Dang, we didn’t beat the crap out of them. What is wrong with us?'”

Not much was wrong with that Meridian team of 1987. Burroughs was far from a one-man show, and he will be the first to clarify that point quickly. The team was comprised of David Booker, Bill Cornish, Laverne Crowther, Jimmy Files, Shadrick Glass, Richard, Hickman, Monte Marshall, Marcus McCoy, Phillip Moore, Jamie Parker, Marcus Portis, Ashley Robinson, Jessie Smith, Brian Temple and Eric Wooten.  Corky Null, Mike Sterling and Randall Hall were the coaches.

A team bound by baseball.

And from August 7 through August 13 of 1987, these Mississippi-based all-stars took their talents to Cherry Park to face the best from across the south led by their team captain.

“Fast. Gritty. Sweat bands,” said Temple, recalling what 14-year-old Lane Burroughs was like in 1987. “Skinny as a rail. Hustle. Lead off hitter. Leader. Those are the first things that come to my mind. He was our captain.

“I remember Lane and other leaders on the team embracing everyone and making us all feel like a unit. We had a lot of team chemistry.”

Temple, who still lives in Meridian and is a stock broker for Stifel Financial, is still great friends with Burroughs. They tandem would serve as co-captains at Meridian Junior College in 1993 and talk “just about every week” according to Burroughs.

Afterall, they are bound by baseball.

Marshall, who was one of the few 13-year-olds on the Meridian all-star team, said Burroughs make him feel a part of the team instantly.

“He was very much a team player,” said Marshall, who lives in Birmingham and is a financial advisor for NBC Securities as well as the founder of the 33s baseball summer travel ball organization. “He cared about every body doing well and winning.

“He was a very hard-nosed player, from batting practice just before a game to the very last pitch. He was on every pitch. Very intense. He wanted to win but he wanted to do it together. And he made me feel included.

“He was the first older player that I looked up to and say, ‘Hey, I want to be like that.’ If I get a opportunity with a younger player … that’s how I want to treat them. It was a whole lot of fun to play with him.”

These traits and more are the reason that Burroughs was voted the captain of the team.

“I remember taking batting practice at John Moss Field and Corky Null said, ‘Alright we need to elect a captain and person to carry the flag out to when we play in Hattiesburg and if we advance and to be the leader of our team,'” said Temple. “I vividly remember Marcus McCoy coming out and saying, ‘Ya’ll vote for Lane. Ya’ll vote for Lane.’

“We were an integrated team. Marcus was black. And here was the most talented player on the team saying, ‘Ya’ll vote Lane.'”

Bound by baseball.

After the opening ceremony, Burroughs and Co. got punched in the mouth in the opener, falling to Tennessee in the double elimination tournament.

“We lost to Tennessee in game one,” remembered Burroughs. “We had worn these blue jerseys with grey pants all season. One of our gifts for going to the world series was the (Meridian) mayor came and talked to us and presented us new red jerseys. We hadn’t lost a game (all summer) in the blues, and then we lost to Tennessee in the first game in the blue jerseys.”

It would force them to play their way through the loser’s bracket in order to make the championship.

They did.

“We voted that we were going to wear the red jerseys now,” said Burroughs. “So we ditched the blue and then it was ‘Here we go.’ We just kept winning in the red jerseys after that (first loss).”

It set up a match-up against Auburn Montgomery, Alabama and a tough task for the Mississippi fellas if they wanted to take home the title of 1987 Dixie World Series champions.

“We had to beat them twice,” said Burroughs. “We beat them (in game one), and so we had to play them again like an hour later. We are hot and sweaty, but we are rolling. We just knew we were going to win.

“But There was a division on the team on which color jersey we were going to wear. It was almost like there was a face off on which jersey we were going to wear. The red ones were all sweating from playing the first game.

“Our coach Corky Null said, ‘Lane, you are the captain. You decide.’ I said, ‘We are going to put the blue back on.’ And then we got beat. To this day, if I see one of the guys, they say ‘Hey, put those blue jersey’s back on.'”

According to Burroughs, the championship game was a back-and-forth contest. Basically, what a title game should be. Only the wrong guys won.

Auburn Montgomery 12, Meridian 10 … or that’s the score to the best of Burrough’s memory.

“It was eerie at the championship because there was nobody there,” said Burroughs. “You go from that place being packed and people everywhere. Then you make it to the championship game, and there are only two teams left and its their parents and our parents.”

“Pain. It still hurts today,” said Temple. “We should have won. I remember sobbing afterwards, and my dad telling me to quit acting like a little child. We all cried. I remember getting on the bus and Lane and I were sitting by each other sobbing.”

A couple of boys bound by baseball.

The thrill of victory. The agony of defeat.

“We didn’t lose because we were cocky,” said Temple. “We just didn’t play well.”

The summer was over. The season was over. The dream of winning a Dixie World Series was over.

“We probably weren’t able to do that without players like Lane,” said Marshall. “As talented as some players can be, that never-say-die mentality has to be there. You have to have players like that. We had a couple, and Lane was definitely one of those guys for us.”

More than 35 years later, the memories and the relationships built during the summer of 1987 created a bond so strong with 16 boys that it has lasted well into their adult lives.

“You don’t realize it at the time, but you are making memories and friends that will last a lifetime. We are on a group text, and we are constantly communicating,” Burroughs said. “It’s special. These are the guys I played little league with 36 years ago.”

Bound by baseball.

Burroughs won two state titles at West Lauderdale High School. He played for a national championship at Meridian Junior College. He has been a part of SEC and CUSA championship teams as an assistant coach and head coach. He has managed in numerous NCAA Regionals.

But the the Meridian All-Stars still hold a special place in his heart.

“That ’87 team … there was something different about it,” said Burroughs. “It’s the group of kids that you grew up with and went to school with and you are playing for your city. Now you are playing for your state. We almost did it, and really should have done it. You are connected now. Whether you like it or not, you will always be connected.”

Bound by baseball.

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This story was originally published on September 13, 2023.

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by Malcolm Butler

Dr. Les Guice has spent more than five decades of his life on the Louisiana Tech campus, starting as an undergrad student and ending as University President.

On January 1, that run will come to an end.

Guice announced his decision to retire Tuesday in an inconspicuous way, sending an email to faculty and staff that didn’t even lead with his decision. It was unassuming, much like Guice who has always focused on the Tech student body and the advancement of his alma mater.

“Anyone that gives 45 years of their career to an institution should be celebrated, and that’s not even counting what he gave as a student,” said University of Louisiana System President Dr. Jim Henderson. “I don’t know if anybody embodies that catch phrase Ever Loyal Be more so than Les Guice. His contributions to Louisiana Tech and the state Louisiana are going to last for generations to come, and I am deeply appreciative of his service.”

Guice is a man who has always directed the focus onto others.

Since taking over as University President in 2013 following the 25-year reign of Dr. Dan Reneau, Guice has worked passionately to build a personal relationship with the Tech student body — something that has been evident to those around Ruston.

“Every conversation and interaction with Dr. Guice is about putting students’ needs first,” said Donna Thomas, Interim Provost. “If you spend time with him or watch him engage with students, it’s evident that he truly sees the success and well-being of our students as the reason that Louisiana Tech exists.”

“He has been a loyal and dedicated servant to his alma mater for his entire career,” said Steve Davison, member of the Board of Supervisors for the UL System and Tech alum. “I’m very proud of his numerous achievements on behalf of our school. One very noticeable strength is the strong connection and bond that he developed with students.”

There is rarely a day that Guice isn’t seen walking through the quad, engaging with Tech students, faculty and staff on a truly personal level.

“He loves the university and cares deeply about the students who attend this institution and that is what any university hopes to have in a president,” said Dickie Crawford, Vice President for Student Advancement. “He has been a tremendous example of a humble servant leader and his example has driven the culture of this institution over the last decade, and this is why so many parents and high school students look at Louisiana Tech as the preeminent higher education institution in the state.”

Guice’s leadership as president has significantly contributed to the growth and strength of the Tech Family. Groundbreaking faculty and student research, numerous national and global rankings, record-breaking enrollments and graduations, historic philanthropic campaigns, and innovative expansion and enhancement of the campus are some of the many milestones from his presidency.

“President Guice leaves an admirable legacy through his years of service to advance academics and athletics programming, as well as his commitment to developing a vision for the university’s future, including his focus on economic development with projects like Louisiana Tech’s Enterprise Campus,” said William Dearmon, President and CEO of the Ruston-Lincoln Chamber of Commerce. “Though President Guice and his leadership will be missed, we wish him nothing but the best as he embarks on this new chapter.”

“I have worked with a lot of good leaders in my life,” said Sam Wallace, Associate Vice President for Administration and Facilities.  “None come to the same level as Les Guice.  Dr. Guice has a talent for leading a group to set a vision and challenging everyone to work toward that vision.  The Enterprise Campus is a prime example of what Dr. Guice led individuals from all disciplines on and off the campus to develop.  This area was for the lack of better words blighted and was a true barrier between the City of Ruston and the University holding both back.

“From visioning to master planning to development, Dr. Guice led the efforts to create the vision, to dream what could be, to pool resources from multiple sources and plan and design and implement that vision. We developed standards and everything we do in the development of the Enterprise Campus is measured by the standards and master plan.  The small details are important. We would not be as successful with the Enterprise Campus development as we have been without the vision and planning.  This is just one example of how he has led the campus.”

Guice’s journey to the 16th floor began as an undergraduate student at Tech where he earned his Bachelor of Arts in architecture in 1976 and subsequent master’s degree in civil engineering in 1978. He served as an assistant professor of civil engineering, earning promotion to associate professor in 1981. After obtaining his Ph.D. in civil engineering from Texas A&M University, Guice assumed the role of interim department head of civil engineering in 1988, attaining a full professorship and becoming the permanent department head the following year.

He served as academic director, executive associate dean, and dean, all within the College of Engineering and Science (COES). It was his time in these administrative roles that paved the way to his appointment as Tech’s vice president for research and development in 2004. In 2012, he was named executive vice president and in 2013 he was named President.

“You can look around our campus and literally see the progress we’ve made under his leadership,” said Thomas. “Alumni who return to campus are amazed at the transformation. Whether it’s new academic buildings such as the Integrated Engineering and Science Building, student housing, the enterprise campus, parking lots, or athletics facilities, Dr. Guice has served our campus and students by maximizing public funding through the engagement of private donors.”

As the sun sets on his academic career at Louisiana Tech, Guice will be remembered for his dedication and contributions for the past 50-plus years.

“Dr. Guice is the definition of loyalty and being a true Louisiana Tech Bulldog,” said Wallace.  “The campus and all of its family is number one in his thoughts and actions.”

“Dr. Guice has been a servant leader on the Louisiana Tech University campus for over 40 years,” said Dickie Crawford, Vice President for Student Advancement. “We have been blessed to have him as president for the past 10 years.”

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By Emma Stone

After graduating from Ruston High School Class of ’21, Abbey Warren took her culinary skills to Nicholls State University where she hones her craft at baking.

“I knew from my freshman year that I wanted to go to Nicholls,” said Warren. “I’ve always been into baking as a kid. Once, I got cookie dough from the school to sell, and I baked it. I went around my neighborhood selling it and made about $100 that weekend.”

Warren said this was when her love for baking really grew.

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“I was hooked after that,” said Warren. 

During her time at Nicholls, she has taken normal classes like English and history with four-hour culinary classes each week. 

This summer, she completed nearly 540 hours at Biltmore Estates, North Carolina, as part of an internship.

The first half of the internship was spent at Deerpark restaurant where Warren worked next to her manager to prepare pastries or baked goods for banquets and events. 

“It could be anywhere from five people to 500 that we were making desserts for,” said Warren. “It was very challenging.” 

Warren would have shifts going from as late as midnight to seven in the morning the next day. 

For her second half of the internship, she began working at The Bistro restaurant which had a much more rushed atmosphere.

“I would work prep two days a week, then work line three days a week,” said Warren. “It takes a lot of patience, but it’s a lot of fun.”

Warren has had past experience this past spring; she worked at Berckman’s Palace for the Master’s Golf Tournament in Augusta, Georgia. 

“It’s one of the only golf tournaments that never moves,” said Warren. “Berckman’s Palace is the VIP restaurant. I worked in commissary prep, so chopping foods.”

Her first three days were eight-hour shifts and the last seven days were 12-to-14-hour days. 

“That one was rough, but my internship was a really good learning opportunity,” said Warren.

Warren starts back at Nicholls today, where she will be taking classes on cooking Cajun creole.

“I learned a lot about myself, how I work and who I work best with in different management styles,” said Warren. “I’ve gained a lot of confidence in the kitchen and it was a good use of my summer.”

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This story was originally published on September 28, 2023.

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By Kyle Roberts

Following passages of votes with both the Lincoln Parish Police Jury and the Lincoln Parish School Board Thursday morning, “Project Middle,” which was revealed publicly to be an investment and project by JP Morgan Chase, will move forward with building an operations center in Ruston and providing a projected 200 jobs with salaries beginning at $50,000.

The facility will be located “north of I-20,” according to Justyn Dixon, president and CEO of the North Louisiana Economic Partnership. When asked, the exact location has not been publicly revealed.

“Ruston proudly celebrates JP Morgan Chase & Co.’s substantial $30 million investment, accompanied by the creation of new jobs,” said City of Ruston Mayor Ronny Walker. “This collaboration stands as a true testament to the extraordinary potential that the City of Ruston holds. A partnership like this goes to show the confidence in Ruston’s readiness for a future that will contain opportunities for everyone.”

To secure Chase’s new Operations Center in Ruston, the parish provided the company with a competitive incentives package that includes property and sales tax abatements. A Payment In Lieu Of Taxes agreement will be awarded contingent on the company’s creation of up to 200 full-time positions in Lincoln Parish over a course of time. JP Morgan Chase asked for a 15 year tax sliding property tax abatement, as well as a 50 percent abatement on tax from construction equipment and an abatement of five years on sales taxes on computers and technology. The property tax abatement will be dependent on the number of jobs created: starting at 25 percent for 0-24 jobs and capping at 75 percent for 151-200 jobs.

The Ruston facility will have a front operation office center with staff processing and computer processing of data with image scanners along with a vault that will be a large part of the square footage of the building.

Completion of the facility is projected to be by the end of 2025.

The police jury voted first and passed with a 10-0 vote with both Skip Russell and Theresa Wyatt absent from the meeting.

The school board followed 10-0 with both Otha Anders and Debbie Abrahm absent.

”We are working toward expanding our presence in Ruston,” Tania Hilburn, Chase Managing Director and location leader of the Monroe campus. “We look forward to providing more details in the future.”

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By Kyle Roberts

It’s hard to imagine Ruston High School football without thinking of the Graham family.

And that’s why it was a fitting tribute on Thursday for community members and friends of the family to come see the commemoration of the Origin Bank Pavilion on the southeast corner of Hoss Garrett Stadium, which was dedicated to Gantt Graham, who tragically passed away on Dec. 29, 2020.

Gantt’s parents, Randy and Sally, stood together and addressed the crowd and shared their love for their late son along with their appreciation for the Ruston community.

“There are very few people here that I haven’t known for most of their lives,” Randy said. “And we hold that close to us. The support that we’ve gotten from our community, our church, from every aspect of what a community is; it’s truly outstanding.

“To have the opportunity to stand here in front of you and celebrate the life of my son is something I never thought I’d have to do. But Gantt had a unique presence about him, and I thank his mother (Sally) for that. He got a lot of her characteristics and her passion. There wasn’t a room that Gantt could not go into or a person who he couldn’t carry a conversation with. And he is who he was because of all of you, and this program and this school.”

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Gantt will have a plaque in the middle of the pavilion to serve as reminder of his smile and who he was– and what his family means to Ruston and the Bearcats.

“I knew Gantt personally,” Ruston High principal Dan Gressett said. “I had him in class and then years after when he was out of high school. He had such an infectious personality. But to have Origin Bank and the Graham family to do this for Ruston High School; it’s very special place and a special day.”

The planning and construction had been going on for over two years before completion for use along with Thursday’s dedication.

And could you possibly make the day even better? Well, Thursday just so happened to be Gantt’s birthday, when he would have turned 33 years old.

“It’s so special to be able to do this on Gantt’s birthday,” Drake Mills, Chairman, President and CEO of Origin Bancorp, Inc., said. “And it was special to be able to memorialize this building in its name for all the good things that he did for this community. This is a special day for Origin Bank just to be a small part of this, and to accelerate the football program at Ruston High School. It’s an awesome day.”

Randy, along with his three sons in Matt, Thomas and Gantt were privileged to put on the Bearcat uniform. Randy would go on to play collegiately at the University of Missouri, while all three sons went on to be part of Louisiana Tech’s football program: Matt and Thomas both served as deep snappers, while Gantt served on the sidelines in various roles, including the head of equipment operations for the Bulldogs from 2017-2019.

“I think it’s a token of appreciation to what the Graham family has meant to this school for generations now,” Ruston head coach Jerrod Baugh said. “Today was a great day to commemorate Gantt and show the family the appreciation for what they’ve done for us.”

The pavilion will serve multiple uses: from Friday nights for football fans with passes to hospitality for the Hoss Garrett Relays in the spring to hosting and serving food at freshman academy events.

“We really haven’t put a finger on all that we can do with the structure, but I think it’s going to be something that’s going to be able to be utilized for every group, and not just athletics,” Baugh added. “This lends itself to be able to be used for the academic part of the school too. This season, the Bearcat football club furnishes food for anyone with a pass they’ve purchased.

“And I’ve always said I’d like to watch a game from up here. It’d be a little difficult to coach from here, but I think the atmosphere and everything that will be going on will make it worth the price of a pavilion pass.”

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by Kirk Hollis

We have reached our final week for this column for this year and I hope you have enjoyed reading it each week or at least on occasion. As we wrap things up for this season, I wanted to give out some awards for the year and also give a list of the biggest surprises and disappointments of the fantasy season. First the awards:

Fantasy Football MVP: Christian McCaffrey

McCaffrey has been running alongside Tyreek Hill all season with respect to this award, but with Hill getting injured late, McCaffrey has surpassed him in my estimation. Both have had historic seasons to be sure.

Best Fantasy Playoff Performance: Amari Cooper (Week 16)

I hope at least a few of you had the good fortune to have Cooper in your lineups this past weekend. I know he almost single-handedly earned me a key playoff win.

Worst Fantasy Playoff Performance: Davante Adams (Week 16)

Yes, the Raiders upset the Chiefs on Christmas Day, but Adams was MIA in large part because his QB was so inept. Then again, if you were relying on Adams this season, you likely weren’t in the playoffs anyway.

Biggest Draft Bust (2023): Austin Ekeler & Joe Burrow

There were no colossal busts this season, but these two are as close as it gets by my estimation. Injuries certainly played a role in their demise and both should/could bounce back in 2024.

Now, let’s look at our version of the Naughty/Nice list:

Biggest Surprises of 2023:

1. Kyren The Great- Undrafted in most leagues last August, Williams burst upon the scene to become a top-3 RB and a weapon few saw coming.
2. Raheem The Dream- Also in the top-3 and drafted late in most August drafts (if at all) was the standout veteran from Miami. 21 TDs through 16 games.
3. A Trio Of Talented Rookies- C.J. Stroud (QB), Puka Nacua (WR), and Sam LaPorta (TE) were way better than expectations.
4. Old Man Evans- Considered a lukewarm prospect on Draft Day due to a change at QB, Mike Evans instead had perhaps his finest overall season.
5. Super Sophomores, Part One- Brock Purdy and Sam Howell both rose to fantasy starter levels with Purdy rising to top-5 overall status.
6. Super Sophomores, Part Two- Running backs Rachaad White and James Cook took huge leaps forward to become top-10 at their position.
7. Nico’s Revenge- Finally paired with a competent QB, Nico Collins became a surefire fantasy starter in the improved Texan offense.
8. Three For The Road- Jordan Love, Brandon Aiyuk, and Trey McBride shone much brighter from a fantasy standpoint than anticipated.

Biggest Disappointments of 2023:

1. Burrowing In Circles- Joe Burrow first played poorly, then got right, then got hurt. Not at all the year fantasy GMs had in mind for him.
2. The A-Team- Both Austin Ekeler and Aaron Jones failed to lanuch in 2023, some due to injury, and some due to slowed production.
3. The Patrick Price- Mahomes wasn’t awful, but the Big Three of Mahomes, Allen, and Hurts turned into the Big Two with Patrick not included.
4. Davante’s Peak- Davante Adams remains a supremely talented WR, but the fit with the Raiders this season just wasn’t there.
5. Overpaid and Underproductive- DeShaun Watson was a disappointment and was out-played by Joe Flacco after the veteran took the reins in Cleveland.
6. Hey Jeudy- The talent is obvious to see, but something is just not right with the Broncos’ underachieving wide-out. Time to cut bait on Jerry in Denver.
7. A Quartet Of RBs Stuck In Cement- Tony Pollard, Najee Harris, Dameon Pierce, and Miles Sanders all failed to progress as was expected.
8. Justin Jefferson’s health- An eight-week injury deprived us of getting to see what Jefferson was capable of this season. The loss of Kirk Cousins (Achilles) was disappointing as well.

As Championship week in fantasy league now is now upon us, here’s hoping you’re still alive and well in at least one league and that you enjoy great success this weekend as seasons wrap on New Year’s Eve. Again, I hope this column has been helpful this season and/or if not, that it’s at least been entertaining. Happy New Year!

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