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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.
Wednesday, April 1
April Fools Day
7-8 a.m.: Veterans Coffee Club (PJ’s Coffee)
11:30 a.m.: Lunch on Us (Presbyterian Church, 212 North Bonner Street., Ruston) — everyone welcome
12-1 p.m.: Rotary Club meeting (Historic Fire Station)
Thursday, April 2
10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.: Book signing with local author Kathy Crowder (Rolling Hills Ministry Books and Coffee, 1103 Farmerville Hwy., Ruston)
11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Kiwanis Club lunch and program (Trinity Methodist Church fellowship hall)
6 p.m.: Southern A’Chord Chorus rehearsal (Presbyterian Church fellowship hall, 212 N. Bonner St.; open to all women singers)
6 p.m.: GSU baseball
Friday, April 3
Good Friday
3 p.m.: GSU baseball
3-6 p.m.: Self-guided Good Friday tour experiencing Jesus’s steps (Temple Baptist Church, Family Life Center Gym)
Saturday, April 4
9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Farmers Market
1 p.m.: GSU baseball
Sunday, April 5
Easter
Monday, April 6
11:30 a.m.: Lunch on Us (Presbyterian Church, 212 North Bonner Street., Ruston) — everyone welcome
5:30 p.m.: Ruston City Council meeting
6 p.m.: Toastmasters International meeting (Louisiana Center for the Blind, 101 South Trenton Street)
6-9 p.m.: Creative Meetups (Creatives at Work, 301 N. Trenton)
Tuesday, April 7
1-2:15 p.m.: Meet and greet with Congresswoman Julia Letlow (Ruston Historic Fire Station)
5 p.m.: MFA Thesis Exhibition Artists’ Talks Opening Reception (F.J. Taylor Visual Arts Center, Room 103, Louisiana Tech)
6:30 a.m.: Veterans free breakfast (VFW Post 3615, 206 Memorial Dr.)
6 p.m.: GSU baseball
Wednesday, April 8
7-8 a.m.: Veterans Coffee Club (PJ’s Coffee)
11:30 a.m.: Lunch on Us (Presbyterian Church, 212 North Bonner Street., Ruston) — everyone welcome
12-1 p.m.: Rotary Club meeting (Historic Fire Station)
Thursday, April 9
9:30 a.m.: Piney Hills Quilt Guild meeting (Grace Methodist Church)
11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Kiwanis Club lunch and program (Trinity Methodist Church fellowship hall)
Noon: Lincoln Parish School Board meeting (Cypress Springs Elementary School)
6 p.m.: Southern A’Chord Chorus rehearsal (Presbyterian Church fellowship hall, 212 N. Bonner St.; open to all women singers)
Friday, April 10
1 p.m.: GSU softball
6 p.m.: LA Tech baseball
6 p.m.: LA Tech softball
6 p.m.: GSU baseball
Saturday, April 11
8:30-11:30 a.m.: Hazardous Waste Material Collection and Recycling (2609 Farmerville St.)
9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Farmers Market
Noon: GSU softball
2 p.m.: GSU softball
2 p.m.: LA Tech baseball
2 p.m.: LA Tech softball
3 p.m.: GSU baseball
Sunday, April 12
11 a.m. LA Tech softball
1 p.m.: LA Tech baseball
1 p.m.: GSU baseball
For the latest local news, subscribe FOR FREE to the Lincoln Parish Journal and receive an email each weekday morning at 6:55 right to your inbox. Just CLICK HERE to sign up.
April 13 Grand Opening announced for Winn Community Health Center’s three-story
For the past two years, Winn residents have watched the rise of the impressive three-story complex on West Court Street that will house the array of services of Winn Community Health Center as well as the seven-parish organizational support of Trinity Community Health Centers of Louisiana.
Now the time has arrived. On Monday, April 13, the public is invited to the Grand Opening of the center beginning at 11 a.m., announced CEO Deano Thornton. There will be a tent, music with a DJ, refreshments of Dana’s Pulled Pork Sandwiches and giveaways.
“Who would have thought that it would come to this when we first started talking about this kind of medical care for our community in 2005?” he said. “We were funded in 2009, opened our doors July 1 that same year, outgrew that office and moved to our current location in 2011 and are now poised to move into this wonderful structure.”
Over those years, WCHC also expanded beyond its Winn Parish borders to seven parishes with 11 clinics and 60 school-based centers under the inclusive name of Trinity Community Health Centers of Louisiana.
“So how have we come so far? I’ve always said that when you surround yourself with good people, good things happen,” Thornton continued. “Our organization is made up of people who care about the well being of the folks in their community and it shows. We’re in the business of taking care of people. This is an amazing, state of the art facility which we’ve been proud to add to the heart of Winnfield.”
The center’s staff will have an early preview of this new structure on March 31. The Grand Opening for the general public is Monday, April 13. The following morning, Tuesday, April 14, medical services at the new center will commence.
Zachery joins GSU football staff
Courtesy of GSU Athletic Communications
Grambling State University head football coach Mickey Joseph announced the addition of Jimmy Zachery Jr. to the staff as Defensive Tackles Coach and Defensive Run Game Coordinator.
Zachery a native of Opelousas, Louisiana, is an alumnus of Grambling State University. During his time at GSU, he was a member of the football team and played an integral role in helping the Tigers secure two SWAC Championships and one Black National Championship between 2001 and 2005.
After earning his Bachelor of Science in Leisure Studies with a concentration in Therapeutic Recreation, Zachery continued his academic journey at GSU, where he obtained a Master of Science degree in Kinesiology with a concentration in Sport Administration.
Zachery began his professional career in recreation, serving as the Director of Farmerville Parks and Recreation for eight years. He then transitioned into coaching, where he built an impressive resume.
He gained extensive experience as a Defensive Line Coach and Defensive Coordinator at Union Parish High School, contributing to a State Championship victory in 2013 and seven District Championships.
Throughout his coaching career, Zachery has held several key positions, including Assistant Head Coach at Dumas High School, Defensive Line Coach at Bastrop High School, and Defensive Coordinator at East Ascension High School.
He later returned to his alma mater, Opelousas High School, where he served as Head Football Coach and Athletic Director for five years. During his tenure, Coach Zachery made history by leading the program to its first-ever football State Championship in 2023.
Following his success at Opelousas High School, Zachery became the Head Football Coach and Athletic Director at Liberty Magnet High School. In his first season, he led the team to a 6-4 record and a playoff berth-an achievement the program had not reached in the previous six seasons. Notably, his first-year win total surpassed the combined number of wins from the prior six years.
Notice of death — March 31, 2026
Pamela Gene Cole
July 23, 1961 – March 27, 2026
Visitation: Wednesday, April 1, 2026, 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM, Owens Memorial Chapel
Funeral Service: Thursday, April 2, 2026, 10:00 AM, Owens Memorial Chapel
Cemetery Committal: Thursday, April 2, 2026, Forest Lawn Cemetery, 2500 West California Ave, Ruston
Eugene Hodges
Sunday 09/01/1929 — Monday 03/30/2026
Visitation: Friday 04/03/2026 3:00pm to 6:00pm at King’s Funeral Home
Celebration of Life: Saturday 04/04/2026 11:00am, St. Rest Missionary Baptist Church, 813 St. Rest Road, Quitman
Interment: Saturday 04/04/2026 Following Service, Mt. Zion Cemetery, Quitman
City to name new Fire Station No. 2 in honor of the memory of Chris Womack
by Malcolm Butler
The late Chris Womack made a lasting impression.
Due to his impact on Lincoln Parish during his career with the Ruston Fire Department, Womack’s memory will live on in this area as well as in the state of Louisiana.
Ruston Mayor Ronny Walker and the City Council is doing their part to make sure Womack won’t soon be forgotten. The newly constructed, but not yet operational, Ruston Fire Station No. 2 will be named after Womack.
Womack, who passed away November 18, 2025 following a battle with cancer, began his career with the Ruston Fire Department in the early 1990s and steadily worked his way up the ladder, ultimately holding the position of Fire Chief for more than a decade.
“Chris Womack was an incredible fire chief,” said Walker. “He was my first leadership hire I made when I became mayor more than a decade ago. From the very first day on the job, Chris began talking to me about the new fire station.
“The new fire station was something he fought for for more than 10 years. I am so thankful we were able to use our ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act) money which came from Covid to build two structures. One was the animal shelter and the other was this new fire station.
“To name it after the person who fought so hard for it and who did an incredible job bringing our city up to a Class 1 rating, it’s speaks volumes to his dedication to his job, this city, and to the firefighters who served under him.”
Womack left a legacy, not only in Lincoln Parish, but within the state, according to all who knew him. He was a Louisiana Fire Chief Board Member, and he sat on the state’s Fire Certification Advisory Committee. He also served on the 911 Commission.
“It’s touching, and its the right gesture to do,” said Interim Fire Chief Joe Dan Martin. “I know how much that station meant to him. There were two things that he wanted to see through before he retired, and that fire station was one of them.
“Unfortunately, he wasn’t able to see the day come but Mayor Walker knew how important it was to Chris and how important Chris was to the fire department; the whole city, the whole parish.”
The existing Ruston Fire Station No. 2 was constructed and opened in 1949. During it’s more than seven decades of existence, it has served the city of Ruston well. However, with the growth of the city, a new one was needed. Martin said the new station would help with response time in that area of the city.
The new facility is expected to be 10,000 square feet and will have a two-story bay station, meaning four vehicles can be housed at the station. Six to seven personnel will be able to stay comfortably on overnight shifts. The new station will also have an office for the Fire Prevention Bureau.
It was built at a cost of $4.5 million.
“The current Fire Station #2 would fit in the living room of this one,” said Martin. “I am not exaggerating.That’s the truth.”
The new Ruston Fire Station No. 2 will be located at 1609 West California Avenue.
“The optics of it … having a good, new, fresh station that has more room and all of this up-to-date technology,” said Martin. “Ruston is growing so fast. It’s so nice to see such a great station grow with it. Chris helped design that station with the idea of expanding one day.”
A final walk-through of the new fire station is scheduled for Wednesday.
“It will take a few months to get all the furniture in there and all the equipment in there,” said Walker. “My hope is that sometime this summer we can have it operational. That would be my hope.”
Regardless of when the new Fire Station No. 2 opens for operation, it will bear the name of a man who dedicated his career and life to the profession and the residents of Ruston.
“This was the perfect thing for the mayor and for the city council to do,” said Martin. “Chris did so many things, and yet he never wanted to take credit for anything. (The plans for Fire Station #2) started 26 years ago with Donny Watson and it was important with Chief Austin. And then Chris being Chris, he took the bull by the horns and pressed to make sure it happened.
“His legacy will live on forever. Part of it will be through that station. Seeing his name out there, people years down the road will see his name on the wall and ask who is this guy, and there will be a great story to tell about Chief Chris Womack. It means the world to us.”
Harris on History: The Igoe Inn—Where Dining Became Theater
by Wesley Harris
Dining at the Igoe Inn near Ruston involved more than food—it was a performance.
The tiny café was no place for a quick meal. You couldn’t eat and run. Owner, chef, and storyteller Tom Igoe treated diners as his audience, and a hurried visit would have been an insult that missed the point entirely.
One writer described the Igoe Inn on U.S. Highway 80 as a place of “fabulous and intricately woven stories, poetry readings, seances, artistic debate, the best steaks in the world, and glamorous stars from the 1950s.”
When Interstate 20 was still on the drawing board, the Igoe Inn stood as a tiny oasis on the narrow two-lane thoroughfare connecting the Atlantic with the Pacific—the only coast-to-coast, all-weather highway in America.
In the 1950s, Igoe struck locals as not only unconventional but far from the mainstream of Ruston society, wearing his white hair long and dressing in clothes now associated with Colonel Sanders of Kentucky Fried Chicken fame.
A retired journalist who had worked for various Hearst newspapers—America’s largest newspaper chain at one time—Igoe knew celebrities, politicians, and international dignitaries.
Igoe came to Louisiana seeking to get into the oil and gas business. He met Annie Nobles, a Lincoln Parish native, who taught at Fair Park High School in Shreveport. They married and Annie stayed in Shreveport on school days and came home to Ruston on the weekends.
Whatever ambitions Igoe once had in oil and gas faded quickly. Instead, he opened a small café on U.S. 80. And since Highway 80 was the major highway crossing the country prior to the Interstate system, many of those high-profile acquaintances would stop at his tiny café.
Igoe served not only as sole proprietor but as the only employee. He opened the doors on a semi-regular basis for dinner at his convenience or after hours when he knew celebrities would be stopping by. When stars like Tyrone Power or Bette Davis visited, it became an event, not just a meal.
One patron, remembering the experience told a reporter in 1985 that Igoe “loved to talk. He’d sit right down with you and tell these fascinating stories. You’d be there for a while if you ate at the Igoe Inn.”
Tom “Butch” Aswell, a Louisiana Tech student when he knew Igoe, remembered him as “an intellectual, sort of the predecessor to the anti-war protesters” who came later. Igoe loved his politics but stuck mostly to writing letters and articles rather than actively campaigning for his candidates in the field.
Igoe fed and entertained a host of politicians, international travelers, college students and faculty, and of course those Rustonites who weren’t too sensitive to be put off by his idiosyncratic demeanor. He fed opera singer Beverly Sills, big band leader Fred Waring, and even Elvis when the “Memphis Flash” was performing nearly weekly down the road at the Louisiana Hayride.
Seances were rumored to occur late at night at the Igoe Inn, and fragments of odd beatnik poetry occasionally drifted through the tiny building. Wiley Hilburn, a local newspaper reporter who knew Igoe, said the restaurateur confessed to having a spiritual guide he called “Red Pony.” In recounting a traffic crash to Hilburn, Igoe blamed it on Red Pony falling asleep in the back seat instead of watching out for him.
L.V.E. Irvine, founder of the Louisiana Tech Concert Series, became friends with Igoe, an avid connoisseur of the arts. Irvine once heard a radio interview in New York with musician Fred Waring. “Somehow the conversation got around to food, and old Fred said, ‘Yeah, I sure would like to be in Ruston, Louisiana, at the Igoe Inn,’” Irvine recalled for a newspaper story.
In 1961, Tom Igoe died of natural causes. A memorial service was held in Ruston, but his body was cremated in Dallas. For some time, the ashes went unclaimed. No one knows whether one of his three sons or one daughter—or anyone at all—ever claimed them. Annie had died in 1955 and is buried with her family at Salem Cemetery on Highway 151 between Dubach and Arcadia.
I remember the abandoned café from my youth in the seventies. Sitting just off the U.S. 80 right-of-way, the miniature white building surrendered to the vines and decay overtaking it. Today, the vines are so thick, I’m not sure anything remains behind them.
Highway 80 itself is now a memory, no longer carrying celebrities, business travelers, and vacationers across the country since Interstate 20 was completed—an act that likely would have ended Tom Igoe’s personal fiefdom had he lived that long. The road beside it is now Igoe Inn Road, the only remnant of the local phenomenon that was Tom C. Igoe.
Drug, DWI arrest follows gun call in Ruston
A Ruston man was arrested last week after he allegedly pulled a firearm on another person at a local restaurant.
Jason A. Yates, 55, was arrested on March 28 for aggravated assault, DWI and several drug charges after he was spotted leaving the area by Ruston Police.
At about 5 p.m., officers were dispatched to a restaurant on Celebrity Drive regarding a man pointing a firearm at another individual.
A responding officer spotted the suspect’s vehicle traveling west on the North Service Road. The driver was stopped and taken into custody.
An officer report noted Yates smelled strongly of an alcoholic beverage, and his speech was slurred.
Two firearms were found in the vehicle. Yates was in possession of a prescription bottle in his name that contained alprazolam, a Schedule IV controlled substance and tizanidine, a legend drug. Neither drug was listed on the prescription label.
Yates was taken to the Lincoln Parish Detention Center where he refused to perform sobriety tests. He complained of medical troubles and was evaluated by the Ruston Fire Department and transported to the Northern Louisiana Medical Center. Once he was cleared at the hospital, he was booked for aggravated assault, first offense DWI, possession of alprazolam, possession of a legend drug, and illegal carrying of a firearm while in possession of a 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.
Ruston seniors sign to continue athletic careers at next level
By Kyle Roberts
RUSTON — Four Ruston High seniors were celebrated Monday as they signed to continue their athletic and academic careers at the collegiate level, highlighting both individual achievement and the collective effort behind their success.
Ruston High head football coach Jerrod Baugh said the moment reflects the strength of the school’s programs and support system.
“It’s always a special day anytime we have student-athletes that use their abilities to further their academic careers,” Baugh said. “It’s a testament not only to their skills, but the programs, families, coaches and teachers who helped them get to this point.”
The signing class included Journi Douglas (track and field, Grambling State Tigers), Alex Hunt (football, Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets), Trindon Moore (football, Kansas Wesleyan Coyotes) and AJ Wilson (cross country, Shelton State Buccaneers).
Douglas, who will compete in throws at Grambling State, has developed into one of the area’s top athletes, finishing as a state runner-up and going undefeated this outdoor season in discus and shot put.
Ruston assistant coach Tripp Marcus said Douglas has helped elevate the program.
“She sets the tone,” Marcus said. “She works hard, and when it’s time to compete, she knows how to flip that switch. That’s something you can’t coach.”
Douglas said her decision to attend Grambling State was influenced by the program’s direction and her long-term goals.
“I feel like the new coach has really improved the throwing program, and I’ve seen a lot of progress,” Douglas said. “I feel like coming in as a freshman, already knowing how to throw, he’ll help me a lot.”
Douglas plans to study kinesiology with hopes of staying involved in sports.
“I want to coach in some type of sport,” Douglas said. “I’d really enjoy coaching.”
Hunt’s signing carries added significance as he continues a family connection to Georgia Tech that spans generations. He’ll be the fifth member in successive generations to be a student-athlete for the Yellow Jackets.
Baugh said Hunt’s versatility made him a key contributor during his time at Ruston.
“He’s been valuable for us in multiple phases,” Baugh said. “And he’ll be a great representation of his family, our school and everyone who helped him get here.”
Hunt said both the academic reputation and personal connections made Georgia Tech the right choice.
“The education there is pretty hard to beat,” Hunt said. “It’s a very good business school, and the people are amazing.”
Hunt added that conversations with current players helped solidify his decision.
“I talked to a punter there who used to walk on, and he had all good things to say about it,” Hunt said. “He was a really great guy, both in his faith and just a hard worker. It was a pretty obvious choice.”
Hunt plans to major in general business before narrowing his focus.
“Probably toward the middle of my freshman year, I’ll narrow it down to accounting or finance,” Hunt said.
Moore, who signed with Kansas Wesleyan, earned his opportunity through steady effort and reliability throughout his career.
Ruston assistant coach Jacob Martin said Moore’s consistency defined his time in the program.
“Consistency is the word,” Martin said. “Good day or bad day, he showed up and put in the work. That’s why he’s earned this opportunity.”
Moore said the recruiting process made his decision clear.
“Mainly because that’s where I feel like they wanted me the most,” Moore said. “They heavily recruited me and felt like I’d be a good fit there.”
He plans to study sports management and hopes to remain in athletics after his playing career.
“I’ll possibly be going into coaching after football,” Moore said.
Wilson will continue his distance running career at Shelton State after competing in cross country and track for Ruston.
Head cross country coach Dustin Cochran praised Wilson’s consistency and attitude.
“He comes in with a smile, works hard every day and has been one of the best kids to come through our program,” Cochran said.
Wilson said the environment at Shelton State made it feel like the right place.
“I trust Shelton State because of the community,” Wilson said. “It seemed really nice. Overall, it just felt right.”
He plans to study digital and character design.
Assault suspect resists police
A Ruston man allegedly resisted arrest after threatening officers who had responded to an assault complaint last week.
Alfred Brooks, 43, was arrested on March 27 after officers investigated an incident on Blondin Street.
A woman told officers that Brooks threatened to “punch her head off.” As they attempted to speak with Brooks, he walked away, disobeying commands to return. An officer’s report says Brooks then “squared up at me and pushing his chest out and threatened to punch me.”
Brooks then turned to walk away and a Taser was used to restrain him. However, when he fell, the Taser wires were disconnected, and he began throwing punches at officers, refusing commands to stop resisting.
Officers managed to regain control of Brooks and take him into custody. He was booked at the Lincoln Parish Detention Center for a simple assault and resisting an officer.
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.
Triad Wrestling Club shines at state tournament
By Kyle Roberts
LAKE CHARLES, La. — In just its third year of existence, Triad Wrestling Club turned in its most successful showing to date at the state tournament, highlighted by a state championship, four runner-up finishes and a deep roster of point scorers.
Triad brought its largest group ever to the state stage and produced eight podium finishes, signaling continued growth for the Ruston-based program.
Leading the way was Amelie Hebert, who captured the club’s first female state championship with a team-high 26 points. Owen Hebert added a runner-up finish with 25.5 points, while Conner Jackson (18 points), Robyn Harris (15), and Laila Cauley (14) each placed second in their respective divisions.
Brynn Hightower (9 points) and Laini Holloway (11) earned third-place finishes, and Sawyer Madden added a fourth-place showing with eight points.
Triad’s depth proved critical, with additional contributions from Mychael White (6 points), Robert Taylor (5.5), Blayden Daniel (4), Robert Stevens (3.5), Brett Brown (3), and William-James Campbell (3).
Several other wrestlers represented the club at the state tournament, including Austin Jackson, Brennen Jackson, Kate Medders, Bryson Patrick, Drake Russell, SJ Wilson and Brant Youngblood.
“I’m just really proud of this group,” Triad Head Coach Jeremy Hebert said. “We took our biggest state team yet, and they gave us our best state tournament we’ve had as a club. That says a lot about the work these kids and families have put in all season.”
While the medalists headlined the results, Hebert emphasized the importance of experience gained by first-time qualifiers.
“It’s easy to focus on the medalists, and we’re proud of every one of them, but some of our biggest wins this weekend came from kids who just went out there and competed hard on that stage for the first time,” Hebert said.
The milestone performance reflects the program’s rapid rise in North Louisiana.
“We’re still early in this thing, but you can feel the momentum,” Hebert said. “Wrestling is growing in Ruston, and Triad is becoming a big part of that. We’re building something special in the community.”
The weekend also carried personal significance for Hebert, who coached both of his children during the event.
“As a coach, this weekend was really special for me personally because I got to experience it with my own son and daughter,” he said. “That’s something I don’t take lightly. There’s a different level of pride, emotion and perspective that comes with getting to walk through this journey with your own kids.”
The performances also added to the club’s brief but growing history. A year after Owen Hebert became Triad’s first male state champion, Amelie Hebert added another milestone.
“As a dad and a coach, that’s hard to put into words,” Hebert said. “Those are moments our family will always remember, but they’re also moments that mean a lot for the history of this club.”
Ruston Speech and Debate ends season with stellar performance
Special Report
YOUNGSVILLE, La. — The Ruston High School Speech and Debate Team delivered a standout performance at Southside High School at the 51st Louisiana High School Speech League State Tournament of Champions, competing against more than 30 schools and over 100 students from across the state.
Ruston High placed fourth overall in sweepstakes, awarded for total team points, and brought home the prestigious Novalyne Price Ellis Trophy, which recognizes overall excellence in Louisiana speech and debate.
Several students advanced deep into elimination rounds. Josie Bishop and Oli Deal reached the quarterfinals in varsity impromptu speaking, while Melissa Le advanced to the semifinals in the same event. Caed Baines was a semifinalist in varsity extemporaneous speaking, and Ruqaya Ali reached the semifinals in varsity original oratory.
In declamation, Abi Ligon, Madison McCready and Nyah Metoyer all earned semifinalist honors. Cecilia Sheptoski placed fifth in novice dramatic interpretation, while Deal finished fourth in varsity informative speaking. Metoyer added a runner-up finish in novice impromptu speaking.
Ruston also placed three students on the Louisiana All-State Speech Team: Deal, Metoyer and Sheptoski.
Coach Sydney Phillips said the team’s performance reflects continued growth and depth.
“I am incredibly proud of the team,” Phillips said. “Half of our team pulled to elimination rounds, which is impressive given some of their events had up to 60 competitors in it.”
Phillips noted that while the team will graduate key seniors Melissa Le, Jacob Miller and Elena Baines, she is confident in the program’s future.
“I feel like every season we are getting better and performing at a higher level,” she said. “I look forward to seeing our growth continue when the 2026-27 season starts up in October.
“I also want to say thank you to all of our amazing parents, teachers, and community members who helped judge at tournaments this season. We could not do it without them giving up their weekends. It truly takes a village and the Ruston High School community is so amazing at rallying around our team and helping us out. We could not do it without them giving up their weekends. It truly takes a village.”
COLUMN: From fiery flowers to a burning call
Spring often throws its beauty in our faces – and that’s fine. I love it.
Daffodils flash their yellow almost like the sun. Azaleas blaze with a multitude of shades. And roses – my favorite, of course – almost take your breath away with their brilliance.
Those of us who appreciate such beauty sometimes feel compelled to stop and marvel in the majesty. It’s almost as if the flowers are calling our names, inviting us to come see them, to interact with them, to take note of them.
But what if you saw a bush that was burning from within, and the flame just wouldn’t go out? Now, that would get your attention even more than spring’s fiery flowers.
Of course, that’s exactly what happened to Moses. He had been tending his father-in-law’s flock in Midian, where he had fled after killing a man in Egypt and later trying to break up another fight. On this particular day, he led the sheep to the far side of the wilderness and came to what scripture calls the mountain of God.
Exodus 3:2 says, “There the angel of the Lord appeared to him in flames of fire from within a bush. Moses saw that though the bush was on fire it did not burn up.” Naturally, Moses grew inquisitive and went over to look.
Then came a moment I especially love. The angel of the Lord, whom most scholars believe is the preincarnate Christ, called to him. Not only once, but twice. “Moses! Moses!”
I only recently came to realize what some of these details mean. God called to Moses after Moses became curious about him. And guess what? He’ll do the same for us. James 4:8, which is both a command and promise, says, “Draw near to God and he will draw near to you.”
Here’s another thought to wrap your head around. When Moses stepped toward the bush, God said, “Do not come any closer. Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy ground.”
Why would that be? Most of us can figure out it’s because God was there. I’ll say that again: God was there. (Stay with me on this.)
Well, now, what about us Christians? The Bible shows that Christians are indwelt by the Holy Spirit, so wherever we go, God goes with us. So, literally, every place we go should be holy ground. We should be, as my minister terms it, barefoot Christians.
And when we find ourselves in places where ugliness reigns – crude language, prejudice, bitterness, hate – we should live in such a way that the presence of God is not ignored there.
In that Exodus passage God also told Moses that he was the God of Promise. That day, the promise to Moses concerned the Israelites and their captivity. But he’s the God of Promise for us today, too.
God sees injustice and suffering, and he has a plan for that; you may even be part of that. You may not know it, but you could be the answer to someone’s prayer. God could be telling you, “You’re the one I want to use.”
So, wherever you are in your life, be looking for God – because he’s looking for you. When he gets your attention, get as close to him as you can possibly get. Then, allow him to use you to do his will by his power and might – and not yours.
Today, if you’re bored or feeling restless, if you’re getting spring fever from looking at all the flowers, or if you’re just wondering what to do, remember this: The same God who set a bush ablaze to get Moses’ attention is still at work today. He may not use fire in quite that way – but he will still get your attention.
When he does, don’t just admire the beauty around you. Turn aside. Step closer. Then, be ready when he calls your name.
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Sallie Rose Hollis lives in Ruston and retired from Louisiana Tech as an associate professor of journalism and the assistant director of the News Bureau. She can be contacted at sallierose@mail.com.
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Ponderings by Doug
Language is an art—and marriage is the gallery where half the paintings are hung upside down. Words have two lives: denotation (the dictionary version) and connotation (the emotional baggage they bring to the party). The trouble starts when two people bring different baggage handlers.
“Five minutes.”
In the male dictionary, that phrase is a stopwatch: exactly 300 seconds. In the female dictionary, it’s a flexible time zone that expands to accommodate eyeliner, the perfect earrings, and a last-minute dishwasher triage. So when the husband asks, “When will you be ready?” and the wife says, “Five minutes,” the husband hears a sprint; the wife hears a scenic detour. Either way, the car ride will include an argument about whether “on time” is a suggestion or a felony.
“Nothing.”
When a man says he’s thinking “nothing,” he’s not being evasive—he’s blissfully blank. His mental whiteboard is clean; life is a hammock and the brain is on vacation. When a woman says “nothing,” it’s a covert operations briefing: plans, feelings, timelines, and a five-year contingency plan all wrapped in two syllables. If your wife says “nothing,” consider it a red flag, a smoke signal, and a call to the nearest counselor—preferably one who accepts emergency margaritas.
The sigh.
A man’s sigh is a victory horn: lawn mowed, fish filleted, deer rack admired—mission accomplished. A woman’s sigh is a forensic report: it catalogs your idiocy, timestamps it, and files it under “Do Not Repeat.” Keep making her sigh and you’ll graduate from “nothing” to “we need to talk” faster than you can say “remote control.”
“Go ahead.”
For men, “go ahead” is a green light, a verbal thumbs-up. For women, it’s a dare wrapped in sarcasm: “Go ahead—explain why buying that thing is a brilliant idea.” If she says “go ahead” about the expensive purchase, treat it like a landmine: do not, under any circumstances, step on it.
Words trip us up because we’re using the same language with different subtitles. That’s why marriage counselors get paid—either that or they’re masochists who enjoy listening to couples argue about the semantics of socks.
And then there’s the one place where subtitles aren’t needed: the message of love and forgiveness. The Bible puts it simply: “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us.” Even in the messiest gallery of human communication, that message hangs in plain view—no translation required.
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March 31, 2026: LPJ high school softball roundup
Cedar Creek 15, Simpson 0 (Friday)
Cedar Creek rolled to a 15-0 victory over Simpson on Friday at Cedar Creek School, erupting for 10 runs in the first inning to set the tone.
Cedar Creek sent a barrage of hitters to the plate in the opening frame, capitalizing on timely hits and patient at-bats. Sadee Williams highlighted the inning with a two-run double, while Anslee Woods and Cadence Spangler each added RBI singles. Molly Boyd contributed a two-run double, and Kendall Ramsey followed with a two-run single. Williams later drove in another run after being hit by a pitch, and Woods added an RBI on a fielder’s choice.
Cedar Creek added five more runs in the second inning on three hits. Presley Wall delivered a two-run single, Ava Lantrip followed with a two-run single of her own, and Williams drew a bases-loaded walk to cap the scoring.
Lantrip earned the win in the circle, allowing just one hit over three scoreless innings while striking out six and walking one.
Williams led Cedar Creek with three RBIs, going 1 for 1 at the plate. Ramsey and Wall each recorded two hits, while Hydi Boyd drew two of the team’s eight walks as Cedar Creek showed strong plate discipline throughout the game.
Defensively, Cedar Creek was flawless, committing no errors. Williams led the way with seven defensive chances.
Simpson managed just one hit, a single by Hallie Rollins. Despite the loss, Simpson turned two double plays and also played error-free defense, with Ashlyn Allain recording a team-high six fielding chances.
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Cedar Creek 15, Downsville 0 (Saturday)
Molly Boyd drove in four runs and blasted a three-run homer to lead Cedar Creek to a 15-0 victory over Downsville on Saturday at Cedar Creek School.
Boyd provided the game’s biggest swing in the third inning, launching a three-run home run to left field as Cedar Creek pulled away.
Cedar Creek opened the scoring in the first inning when Ava Lantrip tripled to right field and later came home, while Sadee Williams added an RBI single to make it 2-0.
The Lady Cougars broke the game open with five runs in the third. Williams drove in a run with a sacrifice fly, Cadence Spangler added an RBI double, and Boyd capped the inning with her three-run homer.
Cedar Creek put the game out of reach with an eight-run fourth inning. Williams and Anslee Woods each drew bases-loaded walks, Anna Claire Fitzgerald and Katherine Pardue each brought home runs on fielder’s choices, Spangler added another RBI walk, Boyd was hit by a pitch with the bases loaded, and Kendall Ramsey delivered a two-run single.
Ramsey earned the win in the circle, tossing four shutout innings while allowing four hits, striking out eight and walking none.
Hydi Boyd led Cedar Creek at the plate, going 3 for 3, while Lantrip added two hits in two at-bats. The Lady Cougars also showed patience at the plate, drawing seven walks.
Defensively, Cedar Creek was flawless, committing no errors. Williams led the team with seven fielding chances.
Brooke Mitchell paced Downsville with two hits in two at-bats.
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Cedar Creek 15, Caddo Magnet 5 (Saturday)
Hydi Boyd drove in six runs on three hits, including a three-run double and a three-run homer, as Cedar Creek defeated Caddo Magnet 15-5 on Saturday at Cedar Creek School.
Caddo Magnet struck first in the second inning when Jada launched a two-run home run to left field for a 2-0 lead.
Cedar Creek answered in the bottom half of the inning and took control. Anna Claire Fitzgerald opened the scoring with an RBI single before Boyd delivered a bases-clearing double to put the Lady Cougars ahead 4-2.
After Caddo Magnet trimmed the deficit, Cedar Creek added to its lead in the third when Cadence Spangler lined an RBI double to make it 6-3.
The Lady Cougars broke the game open in the fifth, erupting for seven runs. Molly Boyd, Hydi Boyd and Spangler each homered in the inning as Cedar Creek pulled away for the run-rule victory.
Ava Lantrip earned the win in the circle, allowing five runs, three earned, on four hits over five innings. She struck out six and did not issue a walk.
Cedar Creek finished with 13 hits. Hydi Boyd and Anslee Woods each collected three hits, while Spangler added two hits in three at-bats.
Jada led Caddo Magnet with three RBIs, going 1 for 2 with the second-inning home run. Valerie Ruiz added two hits, and the Mustangs turned one double play.
Cedar Creek returns to action Thursday at home against Castor.
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LaSalle 2, Ruston 0 (Friday)
In a tightly contested pitcher’s duel, LaSalle edged Ruston 2-0 on Friday behind a strong performance in the circle and timely hitting.
LaSalle broke through in the first inning when Leah Steen delivered an RBI single to give her team an early lead.
Landry Long earned the win, tossing a complete-game shutout. The right-hander allowed three hits over seven innings while striking out nine and walking one.
Ruston’s Mackenzie Roach was equally impressive in defeat, striking out 12 over seven innings. The right-hander allowed five hits and two runs while issuing four walks.
LaSalle added an insurance run later in the game, with Steen and Long each driving in a run.
Jones led Ruston at the plate, going 2 for 3, while the Bearcats turned one double play defensively.
LaSalle finished with five hits, with Steen, Lexi Lasiter, Long, Kinley Morris and Jules Beaubouef each recording one.
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Ruston 16, Claiborne Christian 1 (Saturday)
Aubrey Stoehr drove in four runs and highlighted a big offensive day as Ruston rolled to a 16-1 victory over Claiborne Christian on Saturday.
Claiborne Christian struck first in the opening inning on an RBI single, but Ruston quickly answered with a dominant bottom half.
Ruston seized control with an eight-run first inning, collecting six hits. Sage Tolar delivered the key hit with a two-run single as the Bearcats took an 8-1 lead.
Ruston added two more runs in the second inning on an RBI single by Akeriah Jones and a sacrifice fly from Ashlyn Dixon.
The Bearcats broke the game open in the third, scoring six runs to extend the lead to 16-1. Stoehr sparked the inning with a two-run inside-the-park home run, later adding an RBI single. Jones contributed an RBI triple, while Rylee Fobbs and Ainsley Simpson each added run-scoring singles.
Jaleigh Martin earned the win in the circle, allowing one run on three hits over two innings while striking out one and walking one. Simpson worked a scoreless inning in relief.
Ruston finished with 16 hits. Tolar and Jones each collected three hits, while Z. Jones and Simpson added multiple hits.
Defensively, Ruston was clean, committing no errors. Mackenzie Roach led the team with three fielding chances.
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Ruston 7, Ponchatoula 5 (Saturday)
Ruston built an early five-run cushion and held off a late Ponchatoula rally for a 7-5 victory on Saturday.
Mackenzie Roach gave the Bearcats an early spark in the first inning with a solo home run to left field.
Ruston added another run in the second when Jaleigh Martin doubled down the right-field line to extend the lead to 2-0.
The Bearcats broke the game open in the third. Rylee Fobbs delivered an RBI single, and a Ponchatoula error allowed two more runs to score as Ruston pushed its advantage to 7-2.
Ponchatoula answered with a late rally, trimming the deficit with a series of run-scoring hits, including three singles and a double, but Ruston was able to close the door.
Sage Tolar earned the win, allowing five runs on six hits over six innings while striking out six and walking five. Roach came on in relief and tossed a scoreless seventh inning, giving up one hit while striking out one to earn the save.
Ruston finished with 11 hits. Fobbs, Z. Jones and Akeriah Jones each collected two hits, while Fobbs, Martin, Jones and Roach each drove in a run.
Kyleigh Darby led Ponchatoula offensively with three RBIs and went 2 for 3. Abby Dagro drew two walks as Ponchatoula showed patience at the plate with six total walks.
Ponchatoula also turned one double play.
Ruston returns to action Tuesday against Pineville.
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Simsboro 17, Jonesboro-Hodge 0 (Friday)
Harley Coon powered Simsboro to a dominant 17-0 victory over Jonesboro-Hodge on Friday, blasting two inside-the-park home runs and driving in six runs.
Coon did all of her damage during a massive 17-run second inning, homering twice in the frame and accounting for six RBIs as the Lady Tigers turned the game into a rout.
Simsboro sent a parade of hitters to the plate in the decisive inning. Brooklynn Boyd opened the scoring with an RBI single before Coon launched a three-run inside-the-park homer. Kennady King followed with a two-run single, and Talashia Mangham added a three-run single. Coon later struck again with another three-run inside-the-park homer.
The inning continued with an RBI single from Brianna Boyd, an RBI double by King, a two-run double from Ciara Caldwell and a solo inside-the-park home run by Gracie Wynne.
Kennady King was dominant in relief, tossing three scoreless innings without allowing a hit. She struck out eight and did not issue a walk.
Simsboro finished with 14 hits. Brooklynn Boyd, Brianna Boyd, Caldwell, Coon, King and Callie Harrison each collected two hits.
The Lady Tigers were aggressive on the bases, piling up 14 stolen bases. Brooklynn Boyd, King, Harrison and Wynne each stole multiple bases.
Defensively, Simsboro was flawless, committing no errors, with Boyd leading the way with eight fielding chances.
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Castor 12, Simsboro 7 (Monday)
Castor used a five-run sixth inning to pull away from Simsboro for a 12-7 victory on Monday.
Castor struck first in the second inning when Russell opened the scoring with a solo home run to center field, and a Simsboro error later brought home two more runs.
Castor added to its lead in the third as Johnson delivered a two-run double and Weaver followed with an RBI single.
Simsboro battled back and erased the deficit in the sixth inning. Callie Harrison sparked the rally with a run-scoring double, Kailee Hamilton added an RBI single, and Kennady King followed with an RBI double as the Lady Tigers tied the game at 7.
Castor answered immediately in the bottom half of the inning, erupting for five runs on five hits to regain control. The decisive hit came from Weaver, who lined a three-run triple to break the tie and put Castor ahead for good.
Kailee Hamilton started in the circle for Simsboro, allowing six runs, only one earned, on six hits over 2 2/3 innings. King worked 3 1/3 innings in relief, giving up six runs on seven hits while striking out four and walking one.
Brianna Boyd, King and Harrison each drove in two runs for Simsboro, while Hamilton led the Lady Tigers with two hits in four at-bats. Simsboro also drew six walks and turned one double play.
Castor finished with 13 hits. Weaver led the way with four RBIs from the No. 9 spot in the lineup, going 2 for 4. Johnson, Pickett, Weaver, Keel and Russell each recorded two hits.
Simsboro returns to action Tuesday at home against Quitman.
Today’s weather forecast
Daily puzzles
Local events
Each Monday through Friday, the Lincoln Parish Journal will post a list of non-for-profit upcoming events happening in the parish. If you would like to add your event to this list or advertise your for-profit events, please email us at lpjnewsla@gmail.com.
Tuesday, March 31
5:30-6:30 p.m.: RPAR’s 5th annual Easter ‘Eggs’stravaganza (Ruston Sports Complex)
6:30 a.m.: Veterans free breakfast (VFW Post 3615, 206 Memorial Dr.)
10 a.m.: Storytime (Lincoln Parish Library)
4 p.m.: Crafternoon (Lincoln Parish Library)
4 p.m.: LA Tech baseball
6 p.m.: Video-led exercise class (Lincoln Parish Library)
6 p.m.: Adult Craft Night (Lincoln Parish Library; registration required by calling 318-513-5510)
Wednesday, April 1
April Fools Day
7-8 a.m.: Veterans Coffee Club (PJ’s Coffee)
11:30 a.m.: Lunch on Us (Presbyterian Church, 212 North Bonner Street., Ruston) — everyone welcome
12-1 p.m.: Rotary Club meeting (Historic Fire Station)
Thursday, April 2
10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.: Book signing with local author Kathy Crowder (Rolling Hills Ministry Books and Coffee, 1103 Farmerville Hwy., Ruston)
11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Kiwanis Club lunch and program (Trinity Methodist Church fellowship hall)
6 p.m.: Southern A’Chord Chorus rehearsal (Presbyterian Church fellowship hall, 212 N. Bonner St.; open to all women singers)
6 p.m.: GSU baseball
Friday, April 3
Good Friday
3 p.m.: GSU baseball
3-6 p.m.: Self-guided Good Friday tour experiencing Jesus’s steps (Temple Baptist Church, Family Life Center Gym)
Saturday, April 4
9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Farmers Market
1 p.m.: GSU baseball
Sunday, April 5
Easter
Monday, April 6
11:30 a.m.: Lunch on Us (Presbyterian Church, 212 North Bonner Street., Ruston) — everyone welcome
5:30 p.m.: Ruston City Council meeting
6 p.m.: Toastmasters International meeting (Louisiana Center for the Blind, 101 South Trenton Street)
6-9 p.m.: Creative Meetups (Creatives at Work, 301 N. Trenton)
Tuesday, April 7
1-2:15 p.m.: Meet and greet with Congresswoman Julia Letlow (Ruston Historic Fire Station)
5 p.m.: MFA Thesis Exhibition Artists’ Talks Opening Reception (F.J. Taylor Visual Arts Center, Room 103, Louisiana Tech)
6:30 a.m.: Veterans free breakfast (VFW Post 3615, 206 Memorial Dr.)
6 p.m.: GSU baseball
Wednesday, April 8
7-8 a.m.: Veterans Coffee Club (PJ’s Coffee)
11:30 a.m.: Lunch on Us (Presbyterian Church, 212 North Bonner Street., Ruston) — everyone welcome
12-1 p.m.: Rotary Club meeting (Historic Fire Station)
Thursday, April 9
9:30 a.m.: Piney Hills Quilt Guild meeting (Grace Methodist Church)
11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Kiwanis Club lunch and program (Trinity Methodist Church fellowship hall)
Noon: Lincoln Parish School Board meeting (Cypress Springs Elementary School)
6 p.m.: Southern A’Chord Chorus rehearsal (Presbyterian Church fellowship hall, 212 N. Bonner St.; open to all women singers)
Friday, April 10
1 p.m.: GSU softball
6 p.m.: LA Tech baseball
6 p.m.: LA Tech softball
6 p.m.: GSU baseball
Saturday, April 11
8:30-11:30 a.m.: Hazardous Waste Material Collection and Recycling (2609 Farmerville St.)
9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ruston Farmers Market
Noon: GSU softball
2 p.m.: GSU softball
2 p.m.: LA Tech baseball
2 p.m.: LA Tech softball
3 p.m.: GSU baseball
Sunday, April 12
11 a.m. LA Tech softball
1 p.m.: LA Tech baseball
1 p.m.: GSU baseball
For the latest local news, subscribe FOR FREE to the Lincoln Parish Journal and receive an email each weekday morning at 6:55 right to your inbox. Just CLICK HERE to sign up.
ICYMI: Hudson, Levingston take home top Class A all-state honors; Creek’s Ryan earns accolades
by Malcolm Butler
Following their march to the Select School Division IV state title, Lincoln Prep coach Antonio Hudson and guard Jabari Levingston took home the top two honors on the Louisiana High School Athletic Association all-state Class A team.
Hudson was named the LHSAA Class boys Coach of the Year while Levingston took home the Most Outstanding Player Award. Panther guard Trey Spann joined Levingston on the all-state first team.
Levingston averaged 21.3 points per game while Spann averaged 18.0 points a contest as the duo led the Panthers to a record of 30-3 and the District 1-1A title.
In the state title game win over Southern Lab, Levingston netted 28 points and Spann added 16 points as the Panthers dominated by a score of 69-42 at Barton Coliseum in Lake Charles.
Hudson earned his third Coach of the Year honor as he won the award on the all-Lincoln Parish Journal Team as well as the District 1-1A team.
Cedar Creek senior Avery Ryan was named first team all-state on the girls team after averaging 15.5 points per game. Ryan led the Lady Cougars to a 23-8 record and a second place finish in the District 1-1A race. The Lady Cougars advanced to their second straight Marsh Madness appearance before falling to eventual state champion Southern Lab.
Class 1A
Boys – First Team
Kristofer Jackson, Arcadia, 6-6, Sr., 24.0
Jabari Levingston, Lincoln Prep, 6-2, So., 21.3
Dwight Magee, Crescent City, 5-11, Sr., 31.3
Trey Spann, Lincoln Prep, 6-1, Sr., 18.0
Daylon Telsee, Lakeview, 5-5, Sr., 16.0
Second Team
Parker Jennings, Central Catholic-MC, 6-4, Sr., 22.3
Nathan Neal, St. Frederick, 6-3, Sr., 19.0
Jordan Scharnett, Jr., East Iberville, 6-1, So., 15.4
Dylan Spansel, Ascension Catholic, 5-11, Sr., 20.4
Kade Vinju, St. Martin’s, 5-9, Sr., 17.0
OUTSTANDING PLAYER: Jabari Levingston, Lincoln Prep
COACH OF THE YEAR: Antonio Hudson, Lincoln Prep
HONORABLE MENTION
Ben Andres, Westminster-Lafayette; Stephen Austin, St. Frederick; Jaden Carter, Covenant Christian; LeDamian George, J.S. Clark; Warren Gougisha, Southern Lab; Braylon Harrell, Arcadia; Chase Joseph, East Iberville; Malachi Joseph, North Central; James King, Southern Lab; Jaden Lusk, Delhi; Tyler Mingo, Central Catholic-MC; Deon Percy, Tensas; Wyatt Poland, St. Frederick; Bobby Reliford, Lakeview; Trevor Russell, Ascension Christian; Kamryn Schexnyder, Ascension Catholic; Trevin Simon, Ascension Catholic; Collin Starks, Central Private; Jaylin Thomas, Elton; Navaughn Williams, Oberlin.
Girls – First Team
Taylor Barnaba, J.S. Clark, 5-1, Sr., 16.2
Avery Cournoyer, Merryville, 5-6, Jr., 23.1
Jorden Geason, Central Catholic-MC, 6-3, Jr., 29.0
Asia Patin, Southern Lab, 5-7, Sr., 19.8
Avery Ryan, Cedar Creek, 6-2, Sr., 15.5
Second Team
DeAsia Alexander, Arcadia, 5-10, Jr., 22.3
Jakayla Douglas, Plain Dealing, 6-2, Jr., 27.3
Arianna Washington, Arcadia, 5-7, Jr., 18.5
Jalaysia Washington, Logansport, 5-11, Fr., 21.0
Kori Wesley, Southern Lab, 5-3, Jr., 13.2
OUTSTANDING PLAYER: Asia Patin, Southern Lab
COACH OF THE YEAR: Stormy Fortenberry, Merryville
HONORABLE MENTION
Journee Borel, Jeanerette; Addy Brown, Central Private; Avery Brown, Central Private; Ja’Layah Brown, Ascension Christian; Madison Clark, Highland Baptist; Trae’lyn Frederick, Jeanerette; Hannah Gammage, St. Frederick; Indiaah Grant, McGehee; Laila Hidalgo, Hanson; Bry’Kal Jones, White Castle; Garri Lawson, St. Martin’s; Lyric Martin, White Castle; Kam Townsend, Covenant Christian, Miranda Williams, Merryville.
Remembering Pamela Gene Hall Cole
Pamela Gene Hall Cole, age 64 of Ruston, La, passed away on March 27, 2026, after a long and courageous battle with illness. She was born on July 23, 1961, to Dr. David Mitchell Hall and Ruth Gene Allen Hall. Funeral services are scheduled for 10:00 AM, Thursday, April 2, 2026 at Owens Memorial Chapel funeral home in Ruston with Rev. Doug de Graffenried and Rev. Jeff Roberts officiating. Visitation will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 PM, Wednesday, April 1, 2026 at Owens Memorial Chapel.
Pamela was the youngest of six children and carried throughout her life warmth and kindness that touched everyone she met. Diagnosed with diabetes at the age of seven, she faced life’s challenges with remarkable strength and determination, never allowing her condition to define or limit her.
She graduated from Cedar Creek High School in 1979 and went on to earn a degree in Business Administration from Louisiana Tech University in 1983. Pamela dedicated 35 years of her career to the poultry industry, working faithfully as an accounting clerk for Conagra, Randall Farms, Pilgrim’s Pride, and Foster Farms. She later continued her career as an administrative assistant with Smith Law Office. Pamela enjoyed her work family and cherished those relationships.
Pamela was known for her friendly spirit, kind heart, and unwavering faith. She found joy in reading Christian romance novels, watching Hallmark, Great American Family, and Christmas movies, and cheering on LSU and Louisiana Tech athletics.
Above all, Pamela’s greatest love was her family. She was a devoted and proud mother to her two sons, Joshua and Jordan. She never missed a sporting event whether in the stands at football and baseball games or riding along in a cart at golf tournaments, always cheering them on with pride and love. She cherished her role as “Grammie” to her beloved grandson, Bentley, who brought her immense joy.
Pamela was preceded in death by her parents, Dr. David Mitchell Hall and Ruth Gene Allen Hall, and her brother, Todd Allen Hall.
She is survived by her sons, Joshua C. Cole and Jordan David Cole (Carly); her grandson, Bentley; her siblings: Susan Fleming (Ray), Brian Hall (Vickie), Kathleen Stinson (Blake), and Cynthia Hall; as well as many nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews.
The family would like to thank all the healthcare teams that aided in her care over the years. Dr. Mark Blackwelder, The Arthritis and Diabetes Clinic, Melaine Massey Physical Therapy, St. Francis Hospital, Specialty Hospital at St. Francis. With special thanks to Emma Loyless NP, who showed wonderful compassion and care for Pamela.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Pamela’s memory to Barak Foundation, Shriners Children’s Hospital Shreveport, or Breakthrough T1D (formerly Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation).
Pamela will be remembered for her strength, her faith, her kindness, and the deep love she had for her family.
Notice of death: March 30, 2026
Pamela Gene Cole
July 23, 1961 – March 27, 2026
Visitation: Wednesday, April 1, 2026, 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM, Owens Memorial Chapel
Funeral Service: Thursday, April 2, 2026, 10:00 AM, Owens Memorial Chapel
Cemetery Committal: Thursday, April 2, 2026, Forest Lawn Cemetery, 2500 West California Ave, Ruston