Just over one hundred miles north of Anchorage, Alaska, sits the small, picturesque, historic town of Talkeetna.  It is a small town with a population of about 900 residents.  Talkeetna is the last stop for tourists and climbers destined for North America’s tallest peak, Mount McKinley.  Much of the village’s income comes from tourist who visit for hiking, mountain biking, camping, fishing, hunting, rafting, and flightseeing.  Local artists, craftsmen, and musicians sell the products of their crafts in shops throughout the town.   

The candidates for the 1997 Talkeetna mayoral race were not popular with the villagers.  They longed for a good, honest candidate.  One of the villagers suggested they nominate a well-liked villager nicknamed Stubbs.  Secretly, the residents spread the word that on election day they would write in their vote for their preferred candidate.  Stubbs made no political speeches, never asked the people to vote for him, nor did he do anything other than his normal day-to-day routine.  One supporter proudly told anyone who would listen that “He’s everybody’s guy.”  Without do so much as a handshake to gain a vote, Stubbs became mayor.    

Stubbs spent most of his time, not in a stuffy office away from the public, but in Nagley’s General Store where he mingled with locals and tourists alike.  Well-wishers who were unable to find Mayor Stubbs at the General Store only had to look next door at the West Rib Pub and Cafe where he always had his choice of seats and drank water from a wine or margarita glass.  Mayor Stubbs never drank alcohol.  Mayor Stubbs loved socializing with tourists and hammed it up for cameras.  Everyone who met him said “He’s got a great personality.” 

Shortly after becoming mayor, word spread beyond Talkeetna of his charisma and charm.  His popularity grew into fame when newspapers around the nation reported on his vibrant personality.  People flocked to the town to meet Mayor Stubbs and have their picture taken with him.  Mayor Stubbs was always happy to oblige them. 

Mayor Stubbs always oversaw but never participated in the yearly Wilderness Woman and Bachelor Auction and Ball.  During this charity event, local bachelors were auctioned off to the highest bidders and spent an evening with the winning bidders.  Not to be left out of the festivities, they held a wilderness woman contest which consisted of several tests of strength and endurance “to show these bachelors what women are made of…Alaskan grit!”  As always, Mayor Stubbs socialized with everyone present.  Local residents could not have been happier with Mayor Stubbs.  When a reporter asked Geoff Pfeiffer, waiter at the West Rib Pub and Café, how he liked the mayor, Geoff replied, “We all love him.”  He explained that he and his coworkers vied for their chance to wait on the mayor. 

On the night of September 7, 2013, a vicious dog attacked Mayor Stubbs as he was taking an evening stroll through town.  After what must have seemed like an eternity, Mayor Stubbs escaped from the dog’s clutches.  Mayor Stubbs suffered a punctured lung, a long deep gash on his side, and several bruises.  Bleeding and weak, a local resident loaded Mayor Stubbs into his vehicle and drove an hour to the nearest hospital.  Staff at the hospital were afraid that Mayor Stubbs would not survive what turned out to be a three-hour surgery.  Word quickly spread of the vicious attack on Mayor Stubbs.  People from all over the world wished him a speedy recovery on his Facebook and Twitter pages.  Many of them sent donations to help pay his exorbitant hospital bills.  The residents of Talkeetna did their part as well.  Mayor Stubbs’s donation jar at the general store soon overflowed with coins and folding money.  To their relief, Mayor Stubbs made a full recovery.

As soon as his health returned, Mayor Stubbs returned to his position in Talkeetna.  Once again, he spent most of his time making pleasantries with locals and tourists.  Mayor Stubbs held the office of mayor until he died in his sleep on July 22, 2017.  People all over the world mourned his death and posted letters of condolence on his Facebook page.  Mourners also shared pictures of themselves with the beloved mayor.  They noted that for him to have been mayor at all was an amazing achievement.  Normally, a candidate had to be eighteen years of age to run for office, but the overwhelming support for Stubbs made officials take drastic action.  You see, Mayor Stubbs was elected when he was just sixteen years old.  Mayor Stubbs was also…a cat.

Sources:

1. Decatur Herald and Review, September 4, 2013, p.22.
2. The Gazette (Montreal, Quebec, Canada) September 7, 2013, p.2.

The “Remember this?” book is available for preorder on my website…BradDison.com

The Louisiana State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE) approved minimum statewide health and safety standards for the reopening of K-12 schools in the 2020-2021 school year amid the ongoing COVID-19 public health emergency.

The policy shifts will help ensure the protection of students, faculty, staff, and others on school property to the maximum extent possible and practical, and apply to all traditional public, charter, and nonpublic schools in Louisiana.

BESE’s action is in response to House Bill 59 (now Act 9) of the 2020 First Extraordinary Session, which required the Board to adopt emergency rules informed by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines to provide minimum standards, policies, medical exceptions, and regulations to govern the reopening of schools for the 2020-2021 school year. The standards approved were developed by the Louisiana Department of Education (LDE) in coordination with the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) in accordance with the latest CDC guidance.

“The safety of students and educators is on everyone’s mind as Louisiana prepares to reopen school facilities this fall, and it is an issue that BESE takes very seriously,” said Sandy Holloway, Board president. “The standards unanimously adopted reflect the extensive collaboration between education stakeholders and public health leaders. The result is a practical framework of required safety measures upon which school systems will build the best reopening plan for their communities.”

The policies outline baseline public health requirements for school boards and local governing authorities to follow when reopening facilities to students in fall 2020. Each Local Education Agency (LEA) is required to adopt policies in accordance with the state’s standards prior to the start of the 2020-2021 school year and submit a plan to the LDE addressing each phase of reopening.

“I’m grateful to BESE for their thoughtful, steady leadership during this uncertain time,” said Dr. Cade Brumley, State Superintendent of Education. “This sets minimum health and safety standards for every school in the state, while also allowing for local decision making by system leaders.”

The complete set of standards is available for public viewing online. Specific requirements within the policy are defined according to the state’s current reopening phase (phase 1, phase 2, or phase 3). A general summary of the standards follows:

Group sizes: The maximum group size that may convene indoors in a single room or outdoors at any time are 10 individuals (phase 1), 25 individuals (phase 2), and 50 individuals (phase 3).

Group composition: Younger students unable to wear face coverings or maintain physical distancing should be assigned static groups, which must include at minimum, students in grade 2 or lower. The composition of a group may change if students are able to maintain physical distancing. Students with disabilities must continue to receive special education services in the least restrictive environment possible.

Physical standards for use of school facilities: Groups that convene indoors must do so in a room enclosed by a wall or partition. If groups convene outdoors, each group must remain separated. Schools must limit crowding at entry and exit points to the greatest extent possible. Maximum group sizes and physical distance recommendations must be maintained. High-touch surfaces in rooms used by multiple groups must be cleaned before and after use by each group.

COVID-19 symptoms monitoring: Upon arriving at the school facility, each student and adult must be assessed for symptoms of COVID-19 as defined by the CDC, to include an initial temperature check. Each school must establish an isolation area for anyone showing signs of being sick, which must be cleaned after being occupied by a sick individual.

Face coverings: While inside the school facility, all adults and students in grades 3 through 12 must wear a face covering to the greatest extent possible and practical within the local community context. Students in grades pre-K through 2 may wear a face covering. Children under age 2 and individuals with breathing difficulties should not wear a face covering.

Facility cleaning: High-touch surfaces must be cleaned multiple times a day, including bathrooms.

Personal hygiene: Students must wash or sanitize hands upon arrival at the school, at least every two hours, before and after eating or using outdoor play equipment, and before exiting the school facility.

Hygienic supplies: School employees must be provided adequate access to supplies such as soap, hand sanitizer, disinfectants, paper towels, tissues, and face coverings when needed. Appropriate quantities are to be provided according to the role, number, and age of students served by the employee.

Student transportation: Buses must not exceed 25 percent capacity in phase 1, 50 percent in phase 2, and 75 percent in phase 3, spaced to the greatest extent possible according to the current reopening phase.

Determinations of student placement in a distance or in-person education program: Determinations are made in consideration of the student’s unique academic, social, emotional, familial, and medical needs, in consultation with the student’s parent or custodian.

Exceptions: LEAs will address medical or disability exceptions on an individual basis in accordance with local policies.

The standards reflect the Strong Start 2020 guidance issued by the LDE in June 2020, developed in partnership with the LDH and the Resilient Louisiana Commission, which include best practices and reopening guidance for local school districts.

BESE approved the policies as emergency rules in accordance with R.S. 49:953 and are effective immediately. The emergency declaration remains in effect for 120 days or until the permanent rules are promulgated in accordance with state law through the regular Notice of Intent process.

As research and information about COVID-19 is updated, or if the LDH or CDC revise guidance regarding school settings, the LDE will review the standards and propose revisions to BESE as appropriate and necessary.

Some renters can now apply for rental assistance if they can’t pay their rent due to impacts from COVID-19. Governor John Bel Edwards announced the new $24 million Emergency Rental Assistance Program this past Thursday afternoon.

“This program is designed to help renters who have faced financial hardship as a result of shutdowns, closures, layoffs, reduced working hours or unpaid leave due to the pandemic,” said Edwards.

The first-come-first-serve payments depend on income, household size, and fair market rent prices. It assists households whose income does not exceed $13,500 for one individual, up to 25,450 for a household of eight people.

“The program is available to individuals who are at 30 percent or below average medium income,” said Keith Cunningham, Executive Director for the Louisiana Housing Corporation. “That benefit will allow for three months of rental payment moving forward and three months of back rental payment as additional emergency solution grant dollars are made available.”

Income Eligibility Requirements:

1. 1 Person $13,500
2. 2 Person $15,450
3. 3 Person $17,350
4. 4 Person $19,300
5. 5 Person $20,850
6. 6 Person $22,400
7. 7 Person $23,900
8. 8 Person $25,450

Andreanecia Morris with Housing Louisiana believes this is only a start. The program provides $24 million in assistance, but she estimates at least $250 million is needed to keep Louisiana renters in their homes.

“It’s just not good enough,” said Morris. “If you’re a family of four you can’t make more than $19,000 to qualify for this rental assistance program and you have to have lost income because of COVID to access the funds, so this is a sliver,” Morris said.

You can apply now by calling 211 or at: larenthelp.com.

Governor John Bel Edwards declared a statewide public health emergency on March 11, 2020 due to the imminent threat posed to Louisiana citizens by the COVID-19 pandemic. On July 13, 2020, Governor John Bel Edwards signed Act 12 of the 2020 First Extraordinary Session of the Louisiana Legislature, which provides for a one-time hazard pay rebate of $250 to essential critical infrastructure workers.

The Louisiana Department of Revenue (“Department”) will implement and administer the Frontline Workers COVID-19 Hazard Pay Rebate Program. The purpose of this bulletin is to provide information on eligibility requirements, the application process, the rebate program cap, and related issues.

To be eligible for the rebate, an applicant must meet all of the following requirements:

1. The applicant submits an application to the Department between July 15 and October 31, 2020;
2. The applicant is a Louisiana resident individual;
3. The applicant was employed on or after March 11, 2020, in one of the jobs listed in the Eligible Job Categories section of this bulletin; and
4. The applicant was required by his or her employer to provide in-person services outside of the applicant’s home and was in contact with customers, patients, or the general public for at least 200 hours between March 22, 2020, and May 14, 2020.1 Call center personnel or persons whose jobs are conducted exclusively via telephone, computer or other remote or virtual means are not eligible for the rebate.

 

Eligible Job Categories:

1. Nurses, assistants, aides, medical residents, pharmacy staff, phlebotomists, respiratory therapist, and workers providing direct patient care in inpatient and outpatient dialysis facilities;
2. Housekeeping, laundry services, food services and waste management personnel in hospitals and healthcare facilities;
3. Long-term care facility personnel, outpatient care workers, home care workers, personal assistance providers, home health providers, home delivered meal providers, and childcare service providers;
4. Emergency medical services (EMS) personnel, fire and rescue personnel, law enforcement personnel, and public health epidemiologists;
5. Bus drivers; retail fuel service personnel; sanitation personnel; residential, commercial and industrial solid waste and hazardous waste removal personnel; storage and disposal personnel;
6. Grocery store, convenience store, and food assistance program personnel;
7. Mortuary service providers; or Veterinary service staff

Independent contractors, self-employed individuals, and gig workers may be eligible for rebates if all of the same eligibility requirements are met. In the Employer Information section of the application, these types of workers must list their client, service recipient, or other type of payee, the address where the work was performed, and a description of services provided. The worker must also attach an explanation of how their services were substantially dedicated to responding to or mitigating the COVID-19 public health emergency.

Application Process:

Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications electronically by visiting http://frontlineworkers.la.gov/. Alternatively, applicants may submit their application via a printed form downloaded from the Department’s website and mailed to the address on the form.

Once the application is submitted, the Department will review the applicant’s information and verify it against available employment and tax return data. For expedited rebate payments, applicants are requested to submit employer pay stubs for the pay periods from March 22 through May 14. Before issuing a rebate, the Department may send a request by mail for additional information. The applicant should review the letter carefully and respond as soon as possible to avoid unnecessary delays.

Applicants may request direct deposit of the rebate by completing the required banking information on the application. If banking information is not provided, unreadable, or incomplete, the rebate payment will be issued by paper check.

Rebate Program Cap

The Department urges all eligible frontline workers to apply for their rebate as soon as possible. Based on current program funding, the rebates are limited to the first 200,000 applicants. While additional funding may become available later, there is no guarantee that each applicant will receive a disbursement, as rebates are approved on a first-come, first- served basis.

Rebate Offsets

Rebates are generally exempt from seizure by creditors. However, the Department will reduce a rebate payment for outstanding child support obligations as reported by the Department of Children and Family Services or for spousal support obligations.

Additional Information

For additional information on the Frontline Workers COVID-19 Hazard Pay Rebate Program, please visit http://frontlineworkers.la.gov/, review the Department’s Emergency Rule in LAC 61:I.1919, or contact the Department at (855) 307-3893.

1 Per LAC 61:I.1919, applicants will be presumed to have been responding to or mitigating the COVID-19 public health emergency as required by LA R.S. 47:1787(K) if the applicant meets all other requirements. This presumption is rebuttable by evidence or documentation obtained from the applicant’s employer.

A Revenue Information Bulletin (RIB) is issued under the authority of LAC 61:III.101.D. A RIB is an informal statement of information issued for the public and employees that is general in nature. A RIB does not have the force and effect of law and is not binding on the public or the Department.

There was definitely a bit of confusion when LHSAA executive director Eddie Bonine said that the state had to get to Phase 4 before football season could begin just one week after he stated that the fall prep football season was on go.

“I said phase four yesterday,” Bonine said on the “Off the Bench”  radio show on ESPN 104.5 in Baton Rouge. “People are losing their minds at the fact that they can’t find a phase four. I get it. At the end of the day, I could’ve said post-phase three.”

What you could take from that is a miscommunication. To be clear, phase four is strictly on the LHSAA timeline. Bonine says that they will follow the state through each phase, and that once Louisiana reaches phase three, then if numbers are still trending in the right direction, the LHSAA can give their own green light on their own phase four, which would allow contact sports like football.

“What we need is for the state to go back to doing whatever we were doing that got us out of phase one to get us into phase two that we’re in right now,” says Bonine. “It seems like we’ve been in phase two for a long time with the state. Whatever we were doing back then, we need to continue to get back to that.”

On June 26^th the original Phase 2 reopening of the state order expired but Governor Jon Bel Edwards said it would stay in place for at least another 28 days due to a tremendous amount of new outbreaks of the Coronavirus around the state.

The Louisiana State Police arrested an Eros man for drunk driving and aggravated flight. Police say they initiated a traffic stop after the driver, Robert Campbell, was observed not wearing a seat belt. According to authorities, they activated emergency lights and sirens and the driver fled while, in the arresting Police officers words “flipping the bird” out of the driver’s window.

The vehicle then turned right onto Marion Sims Rd. where it stopped at a residence in the 300 block of Marion Sims Rd. Once stopped, authorities say Campbell refused to comply with orders and then returned to his vehicle and retrieved a lighter and a can of some type of flammable substance.

Campbell allegedly then ignited the substance and direted it’s flame flow at two troopers and one Ouachita Sheriff’s Deputy. After Campbell dropped the substance, Police were able to handcuff him. Allegedly, open alcoholic beverages were located inside the vehicle and were cold to the touch. Officers say Campbell displayed signs of alcohol impairment. Once at OCC, authorities say Campbell participated in SFST which he performed poorly at and refused to submit to the intoxilyzer 9000, but did voluntarily provide a blood sample at LSU Monroe.

Campbell was booked into OCC for the following charges:

1. Driving while intoxicated (2nd offense)
2. No seat belt
3. Open container
4. Passing in a no passing zone
5. Aggravated flight from an officer
6. Resisting an officer
7. Aggravated assault on a peace officer

Arrests made by Jackson Parish Law Enforcement Officers (July 13 -19)

1. Scott Kenneth Burlette (Jonesboro, LA) – Simple Criminal Damage to Property
2. Deandre Dobbins (Jonesboro, LA) – Battery of a dating partner, Disturbing the Peace
3. Steven KuJawa (Hodge, LA) – Disturbing the Peace, Criminal Trespass
4. Clarence Jackson (New Orleans, LA) – Introduction of Contraband
5. Doyle T. Pepper ( West Monroe, LA) – Ouachita Parish Bench Warrant (Domestic Abuse)
6. Nathan K. Fair (Jonesboro, LA) – Possession of Schedule II drug, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Head light offense
7. John Curtis Mills (Winnfield, LA) – Fugitive from Justice Warrant (Capital Murder)
8. Elizabet Ingram (Jonesboro, LA) – Possession of Schedule I drug, Possession of Schedule I drug with intent to distribute, Tag light infraction, Possession of MDMA
9. Ocatvious Morgan ( Jonesboro, LA) – Possession of Schedule I drug
10. Robert Coonce (Dodson, LA) – Theft
11. Glen Whiseant (Jonesboro, LA) – Simple Criminal Damage to Property
12. Dalton Underwood (Downsville, LA) – Possession of Schedule I drug, Improper Lane violation
13. Bradley Lutrick (Hodge, LA) – Possession of Schedule I drug
14. Willie Young (Searcy, AR) – Warrant (Unauthorized use of a moveable), Warrant (Aggravated Assault)
15. Courtney Brosset (Jonesboro, LA) – 2^nd Degree Battery
16. Hughey Lavelle Smith (Eros, LA) – Fugitive from Justice
17. Jamel Owens (Jonesboro, LA) – Possession of Schedule I drug, Possession of stolen firearm, No seat belt
18. Quinton M. Blewer (Hodge, LA) – Simple Battery (x2), Disturbing the Peace, Resisting an Officer

 

Terri Lynn Johnston July 16, 1957 – July 15, 2020
Terri Lynn Johnston, age 62 of Jonesboro, passed from this life on Wednesday, July 15, 2020 following a lengthy period of declining health. Terri was a fun loving and outgoing person who proudly served her country on two separate enlistments in the United States Air Force.

Those left to cherish her memory are her children, Dennis Bowen, Tara Hatfield, Rhett Bowen, Nicci Johnston, Marshal Johnston and Michael Johnston; 20 grandchildren; mother, Eddith Joy (Roden) Smith; sister, Shannon Kramer; a host of nieces and nephews, other relatives and friends. Preceding her in death were her father, Troy Lynn Smith and brother, Kevin Smith.

There will be a memorial service to honor her memory at a later date.

L.C. Lindsay          December 3, 1942 – July 14, 2020
Mr. L. C. Lindsay, age 77, passed away on July 14, 2020. There will be a public viewing held at the Paradise Funeral Home in Jonesboro on Friday, July 24 from 2:00-5:00 pm and again at the Winnfield Cemetery on Saturday, July 25 from 10:00 – 11:00 am. A graveside service under the direction of Paradise Funeral Home will follow immediately.

The Jackson Parish Journal is pleased to add a new Classifieds section where you can post your items for sale or services that you have available. Cost per post is $10.00 per week and can be submitted by email at jpjjacksonla@gmail.com or by text to 318-480-1206.

For Sale:

5.06 acres of land (Price Reduced) – located one mile East of Jimmie Davis Tabernacle on Hwy. 542, Beech Springs Road, Quitman, LA.  Call (706)745-3933 for more information.  

Church Bus – Jonesboro-Hodge United Methodist Church is selling small Bus that is equipped with Handicap accessibility. Engine work needed. Contact Paul Sterns for more information at (360) 399-8347.  

Book for sale – “The 100 year history of JHHS football”  In-depth, year by year, review of each season that includes individual and team school records. Cost is $25.00 per copy plus $3.00 shipping and handling. Call 318-480-1206 to order.

Services offered:

Harris Yard Beautification – Professional Lawn Care provided at reasonable rates. Call Greg at (318) 245-2349

Public Notices:

Town of Jonesboro Board of Alderman Meeting Minutes    –  

 July 14, 2020

Public Hearing was called to order by Mayor Pro Temp Nia Johnson at 5:30 P.M.

Roll Call:  Flowers-Present, Stringer-Present, Siadek-Present, Ginn-Present, and Johnson-Present.

Invocation was conducted by Johnson. Pledge of Allegiance was led by Siadek.

1. Ordinance #2020-003 Budget amendment 2020-2021 The public was given the opportunity to ask questions regarding Ordinance #2020-003. There was some discussion.
2. Agenda Amendments- Resolution #2020-027 Cares Act to be added as 21A, Fire Truck Purchase Proposal to be added as 9A. Motion made by Stringer, Seconded by Flowers. Motion carried.
3. Public Comments- Citizens expressed some concerns they had for the Town of Jonesboro.
4. Mayor’s Update- “The Town of Jonesboro has come off the Non-compliance list.”
5. James Bradford: Concerns of the Town- Mr. Bradford was unable to make the meeting.
6. Approval of June Minutes: Motion by Johnson to approve June’s minutes, seconded by Flowers. Motion carried.
7. Approval of June Bills: Motion to approve June’s bills made by Siadek, seconded by Stringer. Motion carried.
8. Financials: Motion by Ginn to approve the June financials, Seconded by Flowers. Motion carried.
9. Mayor/Police Chief Relations- “The Police Chief does not answer to the mayor. Our perceived problems between the Chief and I, are starting to impede the progress of the Town. It is my hope we can move forward and work together.”
10. Resolution #2020-026 Denmon-Awarding of bid- Motion made by Siadek to award the bid to Womack & Sons for the Obstruction removal project for the airport, Seconded by Flowers. Motion carried.
11. Fuel Bids- Motion by Flowers to accept LOTT Oil’s bid for the fuel purchase contract, Seconded by Stringer. Motion carried.
12. Fire Truck Purchase Proposal- A motion was made by Stringer, seconded by Siadek to pursue the purchase of two preowned fire apparatus using the bid process as per Louisiana R.S. code. Permission was granted to the Fire Chief to pursue the bid process and award the bid package to the successful bidder as per the bid specifications.
13. Declaring Fire Trucks Surplus- Stringer made a motion to declare the 1984 Ford VIN# 1FDXD84N5EVA23335 and the 1993 International VIN# 1HTSDPCR4PH514111 surplus property pending purchase of new fire trucks, Seconded by Siadek. Motion carried.
14. Purchase Order Procedure- Fire Chief Brandon Brown discussed the new procedure the department heads should follow regarding purchases.
15. Surplus Bids- Flowers made a motion to accept the bid for the two lots of surplus property made from David Thompson, seconded by Siadek. Motion carried.
16. Ordinance #2020-004 Tax Collector Raise- A motion was made by Stringer to introduce Ordinance #2020-004 Tax Collector raise. A public hearing was set for August 11, 2020 at 5:30 p.m. to discuss the ordinance.
17. Ordinance #2020-005 Council Raise- Stringer made a motion to introduce Ordinance #2020-005 Council raise. A public hearing was set for August 11, 2020 at 5:30 p.m. to discuss the ordinance.
18. Ordinance #2020-006 Sewer Budget- Siadek made a motion to introduce Ordinance #2020-006 Sewer Budget. A public hearing was set for August 11, 2020 at 5:30 p.m. to discuss the ordinance.
19. Ordinance #2020-007 Water Budget- A motion was made by Siadek to introduce Ordinance #2020-007 Water Budget. A public hearing was set for August 11, 2020 at 5:30 p.m. to discuss the ordinance.
20. Department Head Reports- Police Chief Harris, Fire Chief Brown, and Public Works Director Wortham gave an update of how each department has been over the last month.
21. Approval of Department Head Reports- Flowers made a motion to approve the Department Head reports. Siadek seconded. Motion carried.
22. Infiltration Issues- Public Works Director, Mr. Wortham briefly discussed a plan to send letters to residents of the Town regarding the infiltration system.
23. Appointment of Airport Manager- Mayor Thompson introduced Mr. Herbert Simmons as the newly appointed Airport Manager.
24. Ordinance #2020-008 Juneteenth Holiday- Stringer made a motion to introduce Ordinance #2020-008 Juneteenth Holiday. A public hearing was set for August 11, 2020 at 5:30 p.m. to discuss the ordinance.
25. Resolution 2020-027 Cares Act- A motion was made by Siadek to adopt Resolution #2020-027 Cares Act, Seconded by Flowers. Motion Carried.
26. Executive Session- Flowers made a motion to enter Executive Session with no action taken, seconded by Siadek. Motion Carried. Flowers made to motion to come out of Executive Session, seconded by Stringer. Motion carried.
27. Council Comments- Comments were expressed.
28. Mayors Comments- Comments were expressed.
29. Adjournment- Flowers made a motion to adjourn the meeting, Seconded by Ginn. Motion carried.

Jackson Parish Police Jury Meeting Minutes

July 13, 2020

The Jackson Parish Police Jury met in regular session on Monday, July 13, 2020 at 5:30 PM in the Dr. Charles H. Garrett Community Center, 182 Industrial Drive, Jonesboro, Louisiana. Members Present: Mr. Todd Culpepper, Ms. Amy Magee, Mr. John McCarty, Ms. Regina Rowe, and Mr. Lynn Treadway. Absent: Mr. Lewis Chatham and Ms. Tarneshala Cowans.

The President, Ms. Amy Magee, called the meeting to order. Mr. McCarty gave the invocation and Ms. Rowe led in the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance.

The President opened the floor for Public Comments.

Mr. Walter May addressed the Jury and announced his campaign for district judge.

With the completion of public comments, the President moved to the approval of minutes.

Motion Ms. Rowe, seconded Mr. Culpepper to adopt the minutes of the June 8th, June 18th and July 6th Jury Meetings, monthly purchase orders, and the payment of all bills. Motion carried.

The President moved to Committee Reports.

Finance Committee

Motion Mr. Treadway and seconded Mr. McCarty to adopt the following minutes from the June 29th Finance Committee meeting. Motion carried.

The Finance Committee met Monday, June 29, 2020 at 12:00 PM in the Police Jury Meeting Room of the Jackson Parish Courthouse, 500 E. Court Street, Room 301, Jonesboro, Louisiana. Members present: Mr. Todd Culpepper, Mr. John McCarty, and Ms. Tarneshala Cowans. Absent: none.

The meeting was called to order by the Chair, Mr. Culpepper. Mr. McCarty gave the invocation and Ms. Cowans led in the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. There were no public comments.

The Chair invited the Secretary-Treasurer to present the month-to-date purchase orders and financial statements. The Secretary-Treasurer reviewed the Master Fund trial balance and discussed the restricted fund balances explaining that $4.3 million of the total $10.0 million balance is restricted from spending by the Police Jury. The Committee reviewed the Revenue and Expenditure report and the budget report for current vs. actual.

The Committee reviewed the financial summary of the Sales & Use Tax, 2015 Road Certificates of Debt and Current Year Road Program funds. The Secretary-Treasurer discussed how the funds work together through transfers and the funding sources and needs for long-term planning. Motion Ms. Cowans, seconded Mr. McCarty to adjourn. Motion carried.

Operations Committee

Motion Mr. Treadway, seconded Ms. Rowe to adopt the following minutes from the June 16th Operations Committee meeting. Motion carried

The Operations Committee met Thursday, June 18, 2020 at 3:00 PM in the Police Jury Meeting Room of the Jackson Parish Courthouse, 500 E. Court Street, Room 301, Jonesboro, Louisiana. Members present: Mr. Lewis Chatham, Ms. Amy Magee and Mr. Lynn Treadway. Absent: none. Also in attendance: Mr. Jody Stuckey, Road Superintendent; Mr. Robin Sessions, Solid Waste Superintendent, and Mr. Darrell Avery, Assistant D.A.

The meeting was called to order by the Chair, Ms. Magee. Mr. Treadway gave the invocation and Mr. Chatham led in the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance.

There being no public comments, the Chair moved on to agenda items.

The Committee discussed the need for defining a public use road. Mr. Avery stated that the Attorney General had ruled that it is not possible to define what a public use road is and advised the Committee to use their Revocation of Public Road policy to remove roads. The Committee reviewed the policy and determined that they need to provide guidance to the Parish Engineer in order for him to compile a list of roads to be reviewed for removal.

Motion Mr. Treadway, seconded Mr. Chatham to recommend the Jury authorize the Parish Engineer to compile a list of roads in the Parish Road System that:

• Have been requested for removal by a property owner
• Have one landowner on all 3 sides
• Have road maintenance extending beyond the property line (re-assess maintenance line)

Motion carried.

The Chair invited Mr. Stuckey to discuss issues with drainage work performed in the right-of-way when the property owner(s) does not want it. The Committee reviewed Revised Statute 48:483 which gives the Jury authority to cut ditches and canals where necessary to drain public roads.

Motion Mr. Chatham, seconded Mr. Treadway to recommend the Jury amend the Culvert Policy to give authority to the drainage crew to replace any existing culverts as needed for proper drainage of the Parish Road System and to make the property owner responsible for the purchase of new culverts, per the culvert permit, to be installed and maintained by the Road Department. Motion carried.

The Committee reviewed the status of Sugar Creek Road. Mr. Stuckey confirmed that the barricades were up for the closed portion of the road. The Committee and Mr. Avery reviewed the portion of the road to be removed and discussed notices to be sent to the affected property owners.

The Committee reviewed the letter of request from the Village of Quitman.

Motion Mr. Chatham, seconded Mr. Treadway to have the Road Superintendent prepare a cost estimate for the request and to reply to the Village of Quitman that if they purchase the materials or use the annual appropriation funds, the Road Department can perform the work. Motion carried.

The Committee reviewed the revenues vs. expenses for the Solid Waste Recycle Program for plastic, aluminum, and cardboard/paper. Mr. Sessions detailed the cost of the program over a three-year period.

Motion Mr. Treadway, seconded Mr. Chatham to recommend the Jury authorize the closure of the plastic, aluminum, and cardboard/paper recycle programs as of August 30th, notify the public and businesses, and offer one additional weekly pickup as-needed to current participants as a good faith offer for participating in the volunteer recycle program over the years. Motion carried.

Motion Mr. Treadway, seconded Ms. Rowe to authorize the Road Superintendent and Parish Engineer to review the parish road system and present a report of roads for Jury consideration. Motion carried.

Motion Ms. Rowe, seconded Mr. Treadway to adopt the amended culvert policy. Motion carried.

The Jury discussed the recommendation to suspend the plastic, aluminum, and paper/cardboard recycle program.

Motion Mr. Culpepper, seconded Mr. McCarty to authorize the Solid Waste Department to send notices to the recycle customers that the program would end effective August 31, 2020. Motion carried with Ms. Rowe requesting the notice include a statement that the Jury may try to bring the program back in the future.

Policy & Personnel Committee

Motion Mr. Culpepper, seconded Ms. Rowe to adopt the following minutes from the June 12th Policy & Personnel Committee meeting. Motion carried June 12, 2020

The Policy & Personnel Committee met Friday, March 12, 2020 at 12:00 PM in the Police Jury Meeting Room of the Jackson Parish Courthouse, 500 E. Court Street, Room 301, Jonesboro, Louisiana. Members present: Ms. Tarneshala Cowans and Ms. Regina Rowe. Absent: Mr. Lewis Chatham. Also in attendance: Ms. Amy Magee.

The meeting was called to order by the Chair, Ms. Cowans. Ms. Rowe gave the invocation and Ms. Cowans led in the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance.

The Chair opened the floor for public comments.

Ms. Amy Magee notified the Committee that the Operations Committee would be hearing recommendations from the Road Department at their upcoming meeting for a policy on drainage work. She requested that the Policy & Personnel Committee meet after that meeting to review the recommendation.

Motion Ms. Rowe, seconded Ms. Cowans to amend the agenda to include discussion of employee retirement. Motion carried unanimously.

The Chair invited the Secretary-Treasurer and Road Department Superintendent to discuss the available vacancies in the Road Department. The Committee discussed seniority, experience, and training of employees and determined that experience and training carried more merit than seniority. No action was taken.

The Chair invited the Secretary-Treasurer to discuss the policies for employee retirement and disability. No action was taken.

Motion Ms. Rowe, seconded Ms. Cowans to adjourn. Motion carried.

Project Committee

Motion Ms. Rowe, seconded Mr. Treadway to adopt the following minutes from the June 16th Project Committee Meeting. Motion carried June 16, 2020

The Project Committee met Tuesday, June 16, 2020 at 12:00 PM in the Police Jury Meeting Room of the Jackson Parish Courthouse, 500 E. Court Street, Room 301, Jonesboro, Louisiana. Members present: Mr. Todd Culpepper, Ms. Amy Magee, and Ms. Regina Rowe. Absent: none. Also present, Attorney Bill Carter, Hospital CEO John Morgan, and Parish Engineer Paul Riley.

The meeting was called to order by the Chair, Ms. Rowe. Ms. Magee gave the invocation and Mr.Culpepper led in the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance.

There were no public comments.

Motion Mr. Culpepper, seconded Ms. Magee to enter into Executive Session to discuss the negotiations for the hospital drainage project. Motion carried unanimously.

Motion Ms. Magee, seconded Mr. Culpepper to return to Open Session with no action being taken. Motion carried.

Motion Ms. Magee, seconded Mr. Culpepper to recommend the Jury authorize Mr. Bill Carter to make a final written offer and file an expropriation suit to obtain the drainage servitude. Motion carried.

Motion Mr. Culpepper, seconded Ms. Magee to adjourn. Motion carried.

Economic Development Committee

Motion Mr. Treadway, seconded Mr. McCarty to adopt the following minutes from the June 15th Economic Development Committee meeting. Motion carried 15, 2020

The Economic Development Committee met Monday, June 15, 2020 at 12:00 PM in the Police Jury Meeting Room of the Jackson Parish Courthouse, 500 E. Court Street, Room 301, Jonesboro, Louisiana. Members present: Mr. John McCarty, Ms. Regina Rowe, and Mr. Lynn Treadway. Absent: none. Also present: Ms. Christine Rambo from the North Louisiana Economic Partnership, Mr. Thurston Allen from Jonesboro State Bank, Mr. Rex Johnson from Hodge Bank, and Mr. Mitch Spillers from People’s Bank.

The meeting was called to order by the Chair, Mr. Treadway. Mr. McCarty gave the invocation and Ms. Rowe led in the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance.

There were no public comments.

The Chair thanked the representatives from Jonesboro State Bank, Hodge Bank, and People’s Bank for attending the meeting. He discussed the current state of the property on Industrial Drive that has had improvements made to become certified. He asked the representatives from the banks to assist the Town of Jonesboro financially to relocate the oxidation pond outfall in order for the property to be certified.

Ms. Rambo gave a presentation on how the area can prepare for economic development and gave details on the site certification process. She explained the memorandum of understanding between the property owner and the state of Louisiana.

Mr. Thurston Allen asked about improvements to private land and investment return.

Ms. Rowe left the meeting.

The Committee discussed a follow-up meeting with all interested parties including the Mayor of Jonesboro.

Motion Mr. McCarty, seconded Mr. Treadway to adjourn. Motion carried.

The President called for monthly management reports.

Mr. Jody Stuckey, Road Department Superintendent, gave the June 2020 Road report noting that $4,523.20 had been spent on emergency call-outs/off-schedule work. He stated that the asphalt work would begin in July and discussed the parish bush-hog schedule.

Motion Mr. Culpepper, seconded Mr. Treadway to accept the June 2020 emergency/off-schedule reports. Motion carried.

Mr. Robin Sessions, Solid Waste Department Superintendent, gave the June 2020 Solid Waste report and discussed the tonnage hauled to Union Parish.

The President gave an updated for OEP and discussed the state-wide mask mandate.

Mr. Robert “Bubba” Anderson, Maintenance Supervisor presented the June 2020 Maintenance Report and updated the Jury on completed and upcoming project.

Ms. Gina Thomas, Secretary-Treasurer, presented the June 2020 Financial Report highlighting the actual vs. budget comparisons for all funds. She discussed the budget amendments and fund balances.

The President moved on to Other Business.

Mr. Paul Riley, Parish Engineer with the Riley Co. gave the June 2020 Engineering report.

Motion Mr. Culpepper, seconded Mr. McCarty to award the 2020 Road Program I to Amethyst Construction Inc. for $789,470.00. Motion carried.

Motion Mr. McCarty, seconded Mr. Culpepper to award the 2020 Road Program II to Dreher Contracting, LLC for $438,265.00. Motion carried.

Motion Mr. Culpepper, seconded Ms. Rowe to promote Jack Williams from Operator I-Level I to Operator II-Level I with the pay increase contingent upon successful completion of SOCL exam. Motion carried.

Motion Ms. Rowe, seconded Mr. Treadway to hire Mathew Connor, Paul Aldy, Jeremy Davis, and Ju’Won Jack as General Laborer – Level I’s in the Road Department contingent upon pre-employment screenings and successful completion of probationary period. Motion carried.

The Jury discussed the hiring for an Operator I in the Road Department. Mr. Stuckey explained that his candidate had to decline the position due to their personal business. The Jury took no action on the proposed hiring.

The Jury took no action on a provision for time off without pay.

Motion Ms. Rowe, seconded Mr. Treadway to adopt the Jackson Parish Hazard Mitigation Plan. Motion carried.

Motion Mr. Culpepper, seconded Ms. Rowe to appoint the following parish board members:

• Re-appoint Ms. Lisa Nunn to the Library Board for a 5-year term effective 1/1/2020 – 12/31/2024.

Motion carried.

The President opened the floor for announcements and notifications.

The Secretary-Treasurer made the following announcement:

The Jackson Parish Police Jury will meet on Monday, August 10, 2020 at 5:30 PM at the Dr. Charles H. Garrett Community Center, 182 Industrial Drive, Jonesboro, LA 71251 to levy the 2020 tax millage rates.

The President announced that the Business Session meetings would continue to be held at the Community Center to allow for social distancing.

The President opened the floor to Juror Comments.

The President called for the adjournment of the meeting.

Motion Ms. Rowe, seconded Mr. Culpepper to adjourn. Motion carried

 

WARD TWO FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT MEETING MINUTES

The Ward Two Fire Protection District Board of Commissioners met in regular session on July 14, 2020 7:00 pm at the District Office. By Roll Call the following members were present: Alton Fallin, Charles Hopkins, and Mack Williams. Absent were George Gryder and Bill Wheelis. No public attendant. There were 0-additions 0-deletions offered to the agenda, meeting called to order by Chairman Williams, followed by invocation.

Motion entertained by Mr. Williams to accept the agenda as presented and proceed into business, motion Mr. Hopkins, second Mr. Fallin, motion carried. Motion entertained by Mr. Williams to accept the minutes from June 9, 2020 meeting minutes, motion Mr. Hopkins, second Mr. Fallin, motion carried.

In the order of Old Business: Chief Manning delivered the June Fire report for 7 total calls as follows: 0 Fire, 0 Grass/Brush, 0 EMS,4 MVA, 3 public tree removals. Fuel report for June was on hand of 360.1 gallons, fuel usage was 89 gallons. Apparatus/Equipment Maintenance – side window replaced on Command 1, had intake gasket and power pack changed on truck 1, and starter replaced on pumper 240. Misc. the signs are still in process of being placed around the ward, Hwy 146 almost complete. PIAL – Getting bids on clearing and leveling new training site. June training 9 members attended. Purchasing agent reports for June 2020 was reviewed. Gap Report was 100%.

Motion entertained by Mr. Williams to proceed into new business, motion Mr. Fallin, second Mr. Hopkins, motion carried.

In the order of New Business, Financial Report for m/e 06/30/20 was presented. Mr. Williams entertained the notion to take the following action on HBT Money Market to purchase a 1year CD, Mr. Hopkins motioned, Mr. Fallin seconded, motion carried. The bill review was completed by Mr. Williams. Presentation of Bills for June was discussed.

Discussion to obtain a P card followed by motion from Mr. Hopkins to adopt as presented with spending limit, Mr. Fallin second, motion carried. Mr. Williams entertained the notion to proceed for levying 2020 Tax Mileage and special meeting when obtain mileage rate, Mr. Hopkins motion, Mr. Fallin second, motion carried.

 The Action List was reviewed-nothing added.

 Board members were asked if needed to make any comments, none. There being no further orders of business motion entertained by Mr. Williams to adjourn, motion by Mr. Fallin to adjourn, second Mr. Hopkins, meeting declared adjourned by the chairman at 7:49 p.m.

1. A. Williams, Chairman

 Donna Snow, Secretary

The proclamation issued on July 11, 2020, has caused confusion as to who enforces this mandate.

I have received inquires from residents and business owners alike as to whether they can expect a citation or arrest for failing to abide by the new rule.

The Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office will only become involved if a customer refuses to leave a place of business after requested to do so by management, churches are exempt from enforcement of this rule.

We do not intend to enforce this face mask mandate, but keep in mind the businesses you visit do have a right not to serve you, and ask you to leave.

Louisiana Revised Statue 14:63.3 details the law “Entry on or remaining in places or on Land after being forbidden”.

According to section 5 of the Governor’s order, legal enforcement responsibility lies with the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness as well as the State Fire Marshall, and all complaints should be directed to those agencies. Please do not call 911 and tie up the emergency services in Jackson Parish for this type complaint.

Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office urges all citizens to respect the concerns and health of vulnerable members of our community including the elderly. Some may not have the luxury of constantly being able to stay home and must obtain groceries and other services. If not for yourself, please be considerate of them.

If you are 65 years or older and a resident of the Parish, the Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office will be glad to assist you by picking up groceries and other needs for you.

You can call 318-259-9021 if you need this assistance, or would like to speak with me.

Sheriff Andy Brown

PRESS RELEASE: July 14, 2020

Being an outdoors-oriented person brings with it a number of satisfying things. You get to sneak out in the woods during hunting season and try to outsmart whichever wild game species you’re hunting.

            Our lakes, ponds and streams are laden with bluegills and bass and catfish and goggle-eyes just waiting to come home with you for a swim in Lake Crisco. The catching is exciting; the eating divine.

            There are times, though, when we’re out and about without gun or rod and nature’s youngsters enthrall us as they go about doing what little wild critters do.

            Last Sunday as Kay and I were approaching our driveway after church, something caught our eye in the pasture across the road. A doe was standing there with a tiny fawn nursing her not 15 yards from the pasture fence. We were mesmerized as we watched the doe prance away, the fawn in shaky pursuit, apparently not having finished lunch. Movement under the fence caught our eye and there on unsteady legs stood a second fawn that instinctively dropped to the ground to hide in the sparse grass.

            Kay took my cell phone and approached to within three feet of the day old fawn and was able to snap a photo before the little fellow, scarcely larger than an house cat, stood and wobbled as best it could toward mama who slowed down to wait for her baby. You could pay good money to be entertained at a concert but it wouldn’t have even come close to matching the thrill we got from observing that scene.

            Once while raking pine straw from my yard, I noticed a small burrow with a little lump showing in the straw at my feet. Thinking it could have been a snake making the hole and lump, I carefully moved the straw a bit and observed a tiny bundle of fur. A newborn cottontail rabbit no larger than a tennis ball crouched motionless. I picked up the tiny rabbit for a moment to show it to my wife before carefully placing it back in its burrow. I got my yard raked but there was one particular foot square patch of straw with a burrow and lump that remained untouched.

            I was turkey hunting in Texas several years ago on a ranch that had lots of turkeys. Having built a crude blind from mesquite logs and branches alongside a dim ranch road, I settled in to try and call in a gobbler.

            After nearly an hour of hearing nothing, I crawled from my blind on all fours to sneak a peek down the road to see if I could spot a gobbler. Having seen none, I turned to crawl back to my blind ten yards away when I heard a loud “PUTT”. Turning slowly, my gaze met that of eight juvenile gobblers – “jakes” – standing with necks outstretched trying to identify what that crawling lump of camouflage was.

            As I slowly made my way back to the blind, I turned and to my surprise, the jakes were following me! Curiosity lured them to within a few yards of my blind before suspicion prevailed as they walked back the way they came, putting loudly as they left.

            For years, I have fed birds in my yard and I really enjoy the relaxation and enjoyment I get from identifying those visiting the feeders. One night several years ago, I stepped to the porch and saw movement under one of my feeders. It was a young raccoon getting his fill of the free buffet.

            I began walking slowly toward him, talking softly as I went and I was able to approach to within a couple of yards of the ‘coon before it slowly turned and left. For weeks, I’d see the ‘coon and we had this little “meet and greet” every night until he eventually left for good.

            Baby deer, rabbits, turkeys and ‘coons – it’s absolutely amazing the show nature’s little ones can provide if we slow down and let it happen.

Tragedy struck Jackson Parish when around 8:00 pm on Tuesday, July 7 Jennifer Westbrook of Jonesboro went off the road on Hwy 147 and was killed in a single car accident after the 2014 Nissan Titan she was driving struck a tree.

The initial investigation done by Louisiana State Police (LSP) Troop F revealed Westbrook, who was traveling northbound, was properly restrained but sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.

The accident took place just north of where Hwy 147 intersects Hwy 34. No additional information has been made available at this time. This is the 27^th fatal crash resulting in 28 deaths investigated by LSP Troop F in 2020.

The Louisiana State Fire Marshal’s Office has partnered with Crimestoppers of North Delta and the Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Offices in the effort to obtain additional information, including potential suspects details, in connection with multiple vehicles fires in Hodge.

According to reports the incident began around 2 AM on Monday, June 8, in the 100 block of Bellwood Drive. The Jackson Parish Ward 7 Fire Department responded to calls of several vehicles on fire. Once on scene, firefighters discovered three burning cars.

One auto was damaged inside and out, while the other two only had exterior damage. The vehicles were located only 20 feet away from a unit that was occupied by five people, two of which were children and one who was a disabled adult.

After assessing the scene, deputies determined the fire was intentionally set in one vehicle and spread to the other two. A witness reported hearing an explosion before seeing fire in one of the cars, and then saw a vehicle speeding away.

If you know anything about this case, please call the Louisiana State Fire Marshal’s Office at 225-620-5115, the Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office at 318-259-9021 or Crimestoppers at 318-388-CASH. You can also visit http://www.crimestoppersnorthdelta.com .

If your tip leads to a felony arrest and/or indictment, you will be eligible to receive a cash reward of up to $2,000. Your information remains confidential; you never leave your name and you never appear in court.

The Louisiana Dept. of Health reported 1,705 more coronavirus cases, 7 more deaths and 65 more hospitalizations statewide in a report filed on Monday, July 13^th. Out of 18,431 more tests reported, 9.25% of them were positive for coronavirus. This is almost double from when the state was in Phase 1.

Out of the new cases reported statewide, 20.62% came from the Department of Health’s Region 4, which encompasses the Acadiana area. The second highest regional increase (16.6%) came from Region 2, which covers the Baton Rouge area. The number of hospitalized coronavirus patients statewide increased to 1,308. The last time this many people were hospitalized was on May 12.

Statewide statistics as of July 13

Total cases: 79,827

Total deaths: 3,315

Currently hospitalized: 1,308

Currently on ventilators: 142

Recovered: 46,334

Jackson Parish statistics:

Positive cases tested – 252

Recovered – 157

Hospitalized – 1

Deaths – 16

Jackson Parish Correctional Center – 4

Active cases – 79

By: Kinny Haddox of the Louisiana Sportsman

Fishermen are not always forthcoming with the “whole story” of a trophy fish, so when Dustin Gates of Jonesboro started to tell me about the 10.49-pound bass he caught out of Caney Lake on Friday, June 26, I was ready.

“My buddy Casey Pennington and I just ran out to the lake for a little while to test out his new Humminbird Solix, said the 35-year-old Agape Paint and Body employee. “We were headed to a big brush top to see what it looked like on the new depth finder and we stopped pretty short and started casting.”

Gates was throwing a swimbait and Pennington was throwing a crankbait. Gates made a long cast toward the top and after a few reels, he got hung in the edge of the top. They started to ease up to it and get the bait loose, but decided to turn on the side imaging and take a look first. When they did, they saw two big fish in the top.

“We both grabbed up our worm rods and made casts in there about two seconds apart,” Gates said. “Within two seconds after mine hit the bottom, I got a bite. When I set the hook, I knew it was a good one. A few seconds later it came up to the top and jumped and my heart stopped. It was huge.”

Getting the big bass in the boat

Then the big fish turned and headed back to the top. Before he knew it, the fish had wrapped him around a snag. He worked it back and forth, back and forth and it was right under the boat, but he couldn’t get it loose.

He was about to tell his partner he was going to jump in and get the fish loose but Pennington beat him to it and dove in. A few seconds later he handed the fish, the green pumpkin Missile D Stroyer creature bait and a chunk of brush-top to Gates who got the fish in the boat then helped his “net man” back in and they headed to Hooks Marina to weigh the fish. It tipped the scales at 10.49 pounds, was 15 inches long and had a girth of 19 1/8 inches.

A great time for Caney bass

Gates says he thinks so many big bass are being caught out of Caney the past couple of years because of the grass. It has completed a mecca for the entire food chain.  He said he hopes they don’t do something like they did before and eliminate the grass, because it really hurt fishing then and it will hurt it now.

Gates does have some tips for catching big fish in the summer. Slow down, fish big baits, and use your electronics to find the good spots with fish on them. Then just have fun. And, oh yes, always have a net man who’s willing to go above and beyond….or is that “below.”

CURRENT FISHING REPORT: (submitted by Glenn Harris)

CANEY LAKE – Bream fishing has been good this week around the bedding areas on worms and crickets. Bass to 8 pounds have been caught fishing around the deeper drop-offs and points on Flukes and trick worms. A good many catfish are being caught tight lining cold worms. Crappie fishing has slowed a bit but some can still be caught fishing around the deep tops on shiners or jigs. Night tournaments are being held Thursday nights at Hooks Marina with a 3-fish limit. For latest information contact Bateaux on Caney Lake at 259-6649, Hooks Marina at 249-2347, Terzia Tackle at 278-4498 or the Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707.

OUACHITA RIVER – With water falling, best bets for crappie have been long lining jigs in the river lakes with some big fish caught. Bass have been best in the mouth of the river lakes on shad imitations. Bream are in the back waters and river lakes and hitting crickets and worms. For latest information, contact the Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707.

LAKE D’ARBONNE – Crappie are fairly shallow on the flats fishing shiner or jigs 6 feet deep in 8-10 foot water. Bass have been best fishing up the creeks around grass beds on Carolina rigs and plastic frogs. Some are also being caught along the edges of the channel on crank baits and soft plastics. Bream are still biting fairly shallow on crickets and worms around the lake. Catfishing has been good on set hooks baited with bream with lots of smaller channel catfish caught fishing off the banks with cold worms and night crawlers. For latest reports, call Anderson’s Sport Center at 368-9669 or Honey HoleTackle Shop at 323-8707.

LAKE CLAIBORNE – Catfishing has been good with some nice flatheads caught on stump hooks baited with bream. Crappie are still around the deep tops and hitting shiners and jigs down deep. The bream are around bedding areas and are biting worms and crickets. Some stripers have been schooling with a few caught trolling white bucktails. Bass fishing has been fair this week. For latest information, call Tim Loftin at Kel’s Cove at 927-2264.

1. Latisha Bailey (Hodge, LA) – Disturbing the Peace
2. Brandon Lamkin (Jonesboro, LA) – Arson with intent to defraud, Criminal Conspiracy, Lincoln Parish Warrants
3. Celest Jefferson (Jonesboro, LA) – Possession of Schedule III drug, Warrant
4. Alex Lutrick (Jonesboro, LA) – Possession of Schedule I drug (synthetic)
5. Pamela Lebrun (Jonesboro, LA) – Possession of Schedule IV drug, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Running a stop sign
6. Leonard Roosevelt Jr. (Jonesboro, LA) – Domestic Abuse Battery, Illegal carrying of a weapon
7. Alexander Vines (Jonesboro, LA) – Modified exhaust pipe, Possession of drug paraphernalia
8. Justin Nash (Jonesboro, LA) – Possession of Schedule I drug, No turn signal, No drivers license
9. Shawn Ethan Barr (Quitman, LA) – Failure to appear warrant, Disturbing the peace, modified exhaust pipe

Members of the Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce and guests were treated to a very enjoyable time this last Thursday evening at their annual banquet that was highlighted by having Judge Jay McCallum as special guest speaker.

The event held at the First Baptist Church in Jonesboro Family Life Center began with a “greet and meet” that was followed by current Chamber President Johnny Horton welcoming everyone.  After a delicious supper the much sought after motivational and inspirational speaker, who is a Division A, Second Circuit Court of Appeals Judge, entertained the crowd with his humor and eloquent words of wisdom.

McCallum took his seat on the Second Circuit Court of Appeal on February 1, 2018 after serving as a judge of the Third Judicial District (Lincoln and Union Parishes) for 15 years. Prior to that, he served as an Assistant District Attorney for the Third Judicial District and as a member of the Louisiana House of Representatives from 1992-2002.

Following his address former Chamber president Glen Kirkland and Director Wilda Smith was recognized for their service. The event drew to a close by the awarding of the items that had been purchased through a silent auction and a certificate of appreciation to all sponsors.

Blood Drive set for July 20^th

The Jackson Parish Library (JPL) in connection with the Life Share Blood Center will host a blood drive on Monday, July 20^th from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. Donors not only will receive a Life Share T-Shirt but will also receive a free Coronavirus anti-body test. To make an appointment call 318-259-5697.  

Issac Coldiron wins 2020 Patriotic Art Contest

Quitman High School freshman, Isaac Coldiron has been declared the winner of the 2020 Patriotic Art Contest. The winning piece was an amazing likeness of Isaac’s grandfather, Mr. Glenn Dale Neathery, who served in the Marine Corps in Vietnam from 1968-1970. Visit the JPL for a display of all entries.

Children’s Program offers On-line Art Classes

During the month of August the JPL will offer on-line art classes and provide a packet of materials for each session. Parents or guardians need to come by or call at 318-259-5697 to sign up. Enrollment is capped at 25 and is handled on a first come, first serve basis.

Learning at home educational classes available

By partnering with the Louisiana Public Broadcasting the JPL now has the ability to bring high quality instruction to students and families that has been approved by the Louisiana Department of Education for home learning. Call library for more information or visit the JPL Facebook page. 

A full week of scheduled baseball and softball games resulted in just a handful of contests able to be played as Mother Nature wreaked havoc on the Jackson Parish Recreation Department fields this past week. See below for the scores of the games that were able to be played and the current standing of each league. For complete schedule of upcoming games go online to:  jprec.org

Girls 7 & 8:

1. Johnny’s Pizza 2-0-0
2. Heyhunner 1-0-1
3. Leach Line Drivers 0-1-1
4. Jonesboro State Bank 0-2-2

Scores: Johnny’s Pizza 12 – Leach Line Drivers 8; Heyhunner 15 – Jonesboro State Bank 5

Boys 7 & 8

1. SPS 3-0-0
2. Southern Kustoms 1-0-2
3. Traina’s Bakery 0-2-1
4. Mercy Medical 0-3-0

Scores: SPS 16 – Mercy Medical 9; Southern Kustoms 13 – Traina’s Bakery 12

Girls 9 & 10

1. Extreme Nutrition 3-0-0
2. Leach’s Turf Divas 3-0-0
3. Vanguard Realty 0-3-0
4. Pro Car Sparkle&Shine 0-3-0

Scores: Extreme Nutrition 11 – Pro Car Sparkle&Shine 8; Leach’s Turf Divas 16 – Vanguard Realty 1

Boys 9 & 10

1. Rhodes Farms 2-0-1
2. Southern Kustoms 1-1-1
3. Hodge Bank 0-0-2

Scores: Rhodes Farms 12 – Southern Kustoms 7

Girls 11-13

1. Catfish Inn 3-0-0
2. Listle Real Estate 1-2-0
3. Family Pharmacy 1-2-0

Scores: Catfish Inn 9 – Family Pharmacy 0; Listle Real Estate 9 – Family Pharmacy 3

Boys 11-13

1. Academy Mortgage 2-1-0
2. Jonesboro Glass 2-1-0
3. Pardue Builders 1-2-0
4. Six Point 1-2-0

Scores: Jonesboro Glass 14 – Academy Mortgage 1; Pardue Builders 13 – Six Point 6

The nation is facing its share of major crises, 38 states now challenged with surging upticks in COVID cases, (more than 132,000 American deaths) a faltering economy where unemployment numbers continue to hover around 40 million Americans currently unemployed, police brutality against African Americans continues to haunt the nation, hundreds of police officers threatening to quit the job, and American citizens continuing to suffer from hunger as the food lines continue to grow.  States are having to push back on opening phases II & III as they experience over 60, 000 new COVID infection cases per day and the experts says the nation is heading to over 100 thousand new cases per day.  In Los Angeles, we have experienced a 75% increase in new infections over the past two weeks, more than 10, 000 cases per day.  New York is the only state that has flattened the curve in the number of COVID cases.  The state of California is headed for a shut down, closing restaurants, museums, movie theaters, inhouse dining, and beaches due to the surge in COVID cases.

Frightened senior citizens with comprised immune systems such as obesity, lung and heart disease, diabetes and other health challenges are fearful and are now forced to deal with yet another serious concern, young people going out without wearing masks, failing to practice social distancing, and ultimately bringing the virus home to them.  Seniors who are staying at home trying to avoid this deadly virus are now saying it is not a matter of if I will contract the virus but when I will become a victim and die from COVID 19.  If the current upward trend in COVID cases continues it expected that by the end of July 2020 the country will see up to 100,000 thousand new cases per day and an explosive death rate.  This virus is now killing young folks as well.  Young folks let’s get real, COVID is watching and has its eyes on you.  Young people you cannot outrun nor can you hide from COVID 19, it is out there and it is real and deadly.

Add to the predicament, President Trump is now embroiled in yet another explosive controversy over an alleged Russian bounty being paid to Taliban to kill US troops serving in Afghanistan.  Money is alleged to have been paid by Russian Government officials (Putin) to Taliban operatives to kill American troops with the president being aware of the tragedy.  Both Trump and Vice President Pence contend that they were never briefed on the matter.  President Trump in too many instances appears to be oblivious to these crises and is more concerned with and focused on reelection plans.  He refuses to wear a mask or to encourage American citizens to do so even after the medical and scientific communities clearly indicate that wearing masks help to quell the increase in numbers of COVID 19.  As the nation’s top leader, it is disingenuous for the president not to be setting examples for citizens to follow by personally wearing a mask at public gatherings.  Great leaders lead by example.

On top of these crises, President Trump is also threatening to veto and block a bill for funding military spending because the bill supports the renaming of military bases named for Confederate generals who fought in the Confederate Army against the United States during the Civil War; they fought to preserve the south and maintain the institution of slavery which is the most disgraceful chapter in American history.  Let’s be real, America cannot return to the 1960’s, the Nixon, George Wallace, Bull Conner, and David Duke era.  We must go forward with the hope and willingness to change the things that cause us to walk away from each other rather than towards one another.

In common street vernacular, the phrase “time to be real,” simply means, tell the truth, do the right things, forget the kidding, be for real (authentic).  It means that fake games are over, no more lies, no more excuses, no more deceptions, let’s be real.

During this pandemic, protesters across the world have been marching for days and weeks, fighting for justice for all people.  Protesters have taken to the streets demanding that statutes of Confederate generals be removed from town and city squares.  In several situations they have taken matters into their own hands and have torn down these demeaning statutes.  They no longer wish to honor and celebrate the names of racist soldiers, and generals who were the architects and purveyors of the move to keep Black Amerian citizens enslaved for over four hundred years.  It was slave labor that built America and white citizens today are still benefiting from this national tragedy.

Dr. Herbert Simmons, Jr. is an Associate Professor, Department of Criminal Justice, Grambling State University, former President, Grambling State University Faculty Senate and former Chair, Department of Consumer Education and Resource Management, Howard University, Washington, D.C.

 

If you haven’t filed your 2019 Louisiana state income or Federal tax return today is your last day to do so. The Louisiana Department of Revenue (LDR) reminds residents that the deadline to submit returns and payments is Wednesday, July 15.

This is the extended date from the normal April and May due dates for individual, corporation, fiduciary and partnership income taxes. The extension was provided because of the coronavirus pandemic which caused the shutdown of many state and federal facilities.

Will there be a high school football season this fall? If so, when will it begin? Will there be any restrictions involved? These questions and more were bantered recently byt the Louisiana High School Athletic Association (LHSAA) who came away saying they are fully committed to fall sports taking place.

According to multiples sources, the LHSAA football advisory committee met with LHSAA Executive Director Eddie Bonine this past Thursday afternoon to discuss alternatives should the state remain in certain phases upon the scheduled start of fall sports seasons.

“Now, more than ever, we are reminded that our communities need high school sports,” said Bonine.  “Interscholastic competition supports the physical, emotional and mental well-being of student-athletes across Louisiana.”

It was stressed by Bonine that the football season may have to be pushed back due to the ever-changing COVID-19 pandemic. There is also a possibility of pushing back each sports season three weeks to help satisfy certain key dates.

An update will be provided following a meeting Bonine has with the state legislature and with the Governor where he is expected to learn which phase the state is moving to. Most believe that Phase Two will likely be extended for at least 21 days due to the high number of cases across the state.

Should the fall season get pushed back to mid-September for football, there would still be options concerning openings to play state title games in the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Those dates would fall shortly after Christmas around the second or third week in January.

During World War II, most Americans felt it was their duty to help the war effort according to their individual talents.  Factory workers retooled their machines and made a large variety of instruments of war such as airplanes, tanks, ships, and bombs, just to name a few.  School children led scrap metal drives to aid in the recycling and remanufacturing processes.  Actors sold war bonds to raise money for munitions.  Everyone, it seemed, had some special talent that could aid in the war effort.

Maitland had his own talent.  As a child, Maitland daydreamed about flying airplanes.  He had read newspaper accounts of Charles Lindbergh’s flying career as a U.S. Air Mail pilot and of his first solo transatlantic flight from New York to Paris in the Spirit of St. Louis.  His father, however, had other plans.  Following high school, he wanted Maitland to attend Princeton University and to return home to take over the family’s hardware business.  When he graduated in 1932, rather than return to the family business, Maitland moved to New York and began a different career. 

War loomed on the horizon.  Maitland earned enough money from various jobs and he became a licensed pilot.  All of the hours he had spent daydreaming about flying had come true.  In November, 1940, Maitland tried to enlist in the United States Army Air Corps., predecessor for the Air Force.  The Army rejected him because, at 32-years-old, he was over the maximum age requirement for cadet training and his weight was lower than their minimum requirement.  Maitland’s father had fought in the Spanish-America War and World War I, and both of his grandfathers had fought in the Civil War.  Maitland was determined to do his part in the conflict. 

Maitland was not one to give up easily.  In February, 1941, he tried to enlist again.  The Army needed pilots, and Maitland was a college graduate and, more importantly, a licensed pilot.  The Army ignored his age and low body weight, and on March 22, 1941, enlisted Maitland as a private.  In January, 1942, less than a month after the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor, the Army promoted Maitland to second lieutenant and sent him to train cadets at Kirtland Army Airfield in Albuquerque, New Mexico.  While stationed at Kirtland, Maitland was one of many soldiers who appeared in a recruitment film for the Army.  “Winning Your Wings” played in theaters across America, and the Army estimated that the film was responsible for an estimated 150,000 new recruits.   

Maitland trained pilots for nearly two years but he felt his talents could be of better use as a combat pilot.  In November, 1943, Maitland appealed to his superiors to be sent to active duty.  He had proven his worth as a flying instructor but the Army had many other good pilots who could train the new recruits.  His commanding officer reluctantly granted Maitland’s request and transferred him to England to join the 445^th Bombardment Group as a B-24 Liberator pilot.            

On January 7, 1944, Maitland led the 445^th Bombardment Group on a bombing mission to Ludwigshafen, Germany.  Maitland and the 445^th joined up with the 389^th Bombardment Group.  After bombing their targets, the two groups turned to join up with the main formation for their return to bases.  Maitland realized that they were flying thirty degrees off course, which meant that they were flying toward an area of German occupation and away from the protection of the main formation.  He radioed the leader of the 389^th and told him of the error.  The leader of the 389^th disagreed with his calculation and said he would continue on his heading.  Maitland had a tough decision to make.  He could make the thirty-degree correction and, if his calculations were correct, lead his men to the safety of the main formation.  His other option was to stay with the 389^th and face the German fighter planes.  Maitland realized that if he and his men abandoned the 389^th, they would have almost no chance of survival against the German Luftwaffe.  Maitland stayed the incorrect course.

Within minutes, German radar operators noticed that the two groups of bombers had become separated from the larger formation and scrambled fighter planes to intercept them.  When the men of the 389^th and 445^th saw the German planes, they tightened their formation.  The German fighters began firing at the American bombers and the B24 gunners returned fire.  Maitland could see most of the bombers of the 389^th in front of him.  He watched helplessly as German fighters destroyed the lead plane of the 389^th.  The pilot of the downed bomber was the officer who disregarded Maitland’s course correction.  Maitland took command of what remained of the 389^th and made the course correction he had suggested earlier.  Maitland was right.  Within a short time, they rendezvoused with the main formation.  Seeing the vast number of bombers and fighter escorts, the German fighters retired from the fight.  The 389^th lost seventeen airplanes and their crews.  The 445^th group, Maitland’s men, suffered no casualties.

Maitland’s actions, his superiors concluded, had saved the 389^th from what would have been total annihilation.  Maitland was promoted to major and awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross, the French Croix de Guerre, and the Air Medal.  A year and a half later, Maitland earned the rank of full colonel and became one of only a few soldiers who rose from private to colonel in four years.  

On May 8, 1945, Germany surrendered unconditionally and the war in Europe ended.  On August 15, 1945, Japan surrendered following the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.  World War II, the deadliest conflict in human history, was over.  In the Fall of 1945, Maitland returned to the United States and to his pre-war career.  He continued to be an active member of the Army Air Forces Reserve.  On July 23, 1959, Maitland earned the rank of brigadier general.  In February, 1966, he flew as an observer in a B-52 on a bombing mission in Vietnam.  On May 31, 1968, Maitland retired from the Air Force when he reached the mandatory retirement age of sixty.  For his service, he received the Distinguished Service Medal.   

You probably know Maitland more for his non-military career.  Maitland became the highest-ranking actor in American military history with a career which spanned more than fifty-five years.  He starred in more than eighty films including such titles as “The Philadelphia Story,” “Mr. Smith Goes To Washington,” “Vertigo,” “The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance,” “Rear Window,” and the Christmas classic “It’s a Wonderful Life.”  Many airmen owe their lives, and we, Americans, owe our freedom in part to Maitland.  You see Maitland was the middle name of … Jimmy Stewart. 

Sources:

Matzen, Robert. Mission: Jimmy Stewart and the Fight for Europe. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania: GoodKnight Books, 2016.

McGowan, Sam. “Jimmy Stewart’s Rise from Private to Colonel.” WarfareHistoryNetwork.com. Accessed July 10, 2020. https://warfarehistorynetwork.com/2016/10/19/jimmy-stewarts-rise-from-private-to-colonel/.

YouTube.com. “’Winning Your Wings’ – A USAAF Recruiting Film With James Stewart.” Accessed July 10, 2020. https://youtu.be/aqbErTgiqSY.

To no one’s surprise incumbent President Donald Trump and former Vice President Joe Biden won by landslides in the July 11th Louisiana Presidential Primaries. Trump won the Republication nomination by garnering 195,795 votes which amounted to 95.9% of all votes cast. Biden was the top Democrat with 212,267 votes or 79.5% of the ballots.

Five candidates ran for the Republican nominee with Bill Weld coming in second to Trump with only 3,318 votes (1.6%). The Democratic ballot was much more contested with 14 attempting to secure the nomination with Bernie Sanders coming in far behind Biden with 19,834 votes (7.4%). No other Democrat gained even as much as 2.5% of the votes.