The next payday is going to be a little more pleasant for several Jonesboro officials thanks to the action taken by the Jonesboro Board of Aldermen at their regularly scheduled meeting held at the Charles H. Garrett Community Center in Jonesboro on August 11^th.

The board that consists of Devin Flowers, Pete Stringer, Robbie Siadek, James Ginn and Nia Evans-Johnson will now receive $700.00 per month per Ordinance #2020-005 that passed by a vote of 4-1 with Flowers casting the only negative vote.

“I just think this is a bad time to be raising our salary,” voiced Flowers. “There are still a lot of things that need to be straightened out and I think it would be better to wait until we get everything resolved that we need to get done before we do this.”

Also receiving an up in pay is Town Clerk Amanda Womack and Tax Collector Janice Jones.  Per Ordinance 2020-004 which was approved unanimously, Womack will now make $20.00 per hour while Jones will receive $18.00.

Additional Ordinances that were approved without opposition was #2020-006 and #2020-007 that were in reference to updated Sewer and Water budgets. Ordinance #2020-008 that dealt with declaring the 19^th of June each year as Juneteenth Day was also approved. This will go into effect beginning January 1, 2021.

Four resolutions were also brought up for discussion with two being approved and two being tabled. The board approved Fire Chief Brandon Brown to move forward with a lease-purchase agreement with Government Capital Corporation (GCC) for two American Lafrance Fire Trucks as well adopt the DEQ Sewer Compliance Upgrade recommendations. The authorization for Mayor Leslie Thompson to purchase new meters and for the town to be able to incur additional debt was tabled until the September meeting.

The meeting wrapped up with Ordinance #2020-009 regarding the water rates in the town of Jonesboro being introduced with a Public Hearing date set for the next regularly scheduled meeting set for September 8, 2020 at 5:30 pm. The meeting ended following Mayor Thompson and the Council giving their closing comments. 

See attachments below to review language in the Ordinances that were passed.

They knew they could do this. After all they were at the same location as they were last year when they were mostly eleven years old competing in the 12U bracket at the Little League Softball State Tournament where they came in second place.

They are twelve now. A year older, a year wiser and lightyears better. Not only did they know they could win the state championship, they did it in dominating fashion. Three games were played by the ten young ladies that made up the Jackson Parish 12U All-Star team. The scores of those games were 17-1, 17-2 and 20-1.  Talk about making a statement!

There are many words you could use to describe these talented ten. Vivacious, committed, cute, dedicated, personable, loving, caring, gritty, coachable, etc…..but the best description of all is STATE CHAMPIONS!

It was the three headed brain trust of Brian “Shorty” Guyotte, Scott Jach and Reggie Hall that worked diligently with the girls day in and day out in getting prepared for the return trip to Vidalia, LA. Team members were: Allison Phelps, Peyton Muse, Skylar Hall, Chloe James, Zoie Anderson, Maggie Guyotte, Elli Dickerson, Gracee Barton, Maddie Brymer and Anna Grace Lee.

Jackson Parish 17 Moss Bluff 1: Jackson Parish pounded Moss Bluff pitching for 15 hits in just four frames to win the opener in convincing fashion. Maggie Guyotte, Elli Dickerson and Chloe James each went 3 for 4 and combined for 11 RBI to lead the onslaught. Peyton Muse also came up big with a 2 for 3 night and 3 RBI. Maddie Brymer, who was the winning pitcher, added two hits with Anna Grace Lee and Skylar Hall getting a base knock apiece.

Jackson Parish 17 Shreveport 2: It didn’t matter if it was a team from the southwest corner of the state or the northwest corner. The names may have changed but the result was the same as Jackson Parish rolled up another 17 run assault to win in four innings again. Chloe James led the way with three hits and was one of four who knocked in three runs along with Anna Grace Lee, Elli Dickerson and Zoie Anderson who each got two hits apiece. Peyton Muse, Skyler Hall, Maddie Brymer and Gracee Barton added hits. Maggie Guyotte got the win by K’ing 6 in three innings.

(Championship) Jackson Parish 20 Vidalia 1: The home team had to think things were going to go their way. Everything was stacked for them. They were playing at home. Playing in front of all their family and friends and playing on the field they knew well. There was only one problem for them. They were playing a red hot group from Jackson Parish that had a chip on their shoulders from not winning it all last year.

People ask why I’m running for judge. The answer is simple – I can make a difference. I have the backbone and integrity to stand up for what’s right. I’ve spent my entire legal career with that goal in mind. The people of Jackson, Claiborne and Bienville parishes deserve nothing less in their judge.

I have deep roots and lifelong family ties to North Louisiana. I graduated from Louisiana Tech and earned my law degree at LSU. I’ve been privileged to help families and businesses navigate legal issues, and I have the credentials and experience to be a judge the people in the Second Judicial District, Division A can be proud to support.

In my thirty eight consecutive years of legal practice, I’ve worked as an assistant district attorney, a defense attorney and built a successful private practice from the ground up. I know what it takes to pull myself up from my bootstraps because I’ve done it.

I grew up hauling hay and herding cattle, and I worked offshore on an oil rig to help pay for school. My opponent recently made a sarcastic remark about my background, but you can rest assured that I understand the value of a hard day’s work.

A judge should never belittle working class families. Folks need somebody on the bench who not only understands the law, but also recognizes what people face when dealing with the legal system. My career has prepared me for this moment to be your judge.

A judge answers to the people, and a judge must understand that his or her role is public service. Public servants should be good stewards of the taxpayers’ money, and I promise that I will do that.

 I’ve been married to my wife Donna for 35 years, and we have three sons. We spent a decade of summers at the Jackson Parish baseball fields and participating in youth activities through our church. I’m a hunter and a lifelong member of the NRA.

This election is about choices. One candidate retired 12 years ago after spending a career putting people in jail. I’ve been here with you the whole time, building well-rounded experience that will make me the best choice for the bench. I want the people of Claiborne, Jackson and Bienville to know they can trust me to interpret the law, rule fairly and carry myself with the integrity they expect.

 

Even fishermen who don’t crappie fish know that one of the best times of the year to catch big old slabs is during the spring spawn when the urge to merge captivates the attention of these tasty fish and they move to the shallows to spawn.

Most also know that crappie tend to bunch up in deep water in winter and lots are caught by anglers willing to brave the elements. However, what about the blistering days of July and August? Do anglers seriously fish for them while risking heat stroke? You bet your best Bobby Garland Baby Shad Blue Thunder jig they do.

I had the privilege of fishing with a crappie expert, Bill Pettit, several years ago and came away with a tackle box full of valuable information about summertime crappie fishing from this dyed-in-the-wool perch jerker.

I met Pettit on Ross Barnette Reservoir just out of Jackson, MS where I was fishing as a guest of the B&M Pole Company. Pettit, a retired postal employee in Jackson, was a veritable walking encyclopedia of crappie knowledge and while we caught fish, he shared tidbits of lore that has helped me over the years to know a bit more about these popular and sought-after fish.

One thing that stood out in my mind was Pettit’s comments about fishing for and catching crappie in the heat of summer.

“In spring, you can find crappie on most any lake in shallow water where spawning takes place. However,” Pettit noted, “once hot weather gets here, you can forget about fishing for them in skinny water. They’re going to be suspended in deep water and it takes some searching to locate them. Once you do, you can catch one big old slab after another, provided you can stand the heat.

“Lots of times, I’ll get so hot sitting out there under the broiling sun that I’ll quit fishing for awhile, crank my big motor and tear out across the lake at full speed with one purpose in mind, and that is to cool off. After I cool down a bit, I’ll go back and start catching crappie again.”

As Bill Pettit and others attest, crappie fishing can be downright super in summer, provided you know where to locate the fish. In general, once the spawn is over and the weather begins heating up, crappie head for cooler water, which is usually deep water. Being school fish, once you catch a crappie this time of year, chances are excellent that plenty more are where that one came from.

In big open water bodies, such as rivers and reservoirs like Toledo Bend and Ross Barnette, crappie congregate in or near channels. The moving water will attract pods of shad that the crappie will follow for easy feeding opportunities.

In most deeper lakes in Louisiana, crappie will gather around structure that is located next to deep water. Drop-offs that lead to deep water that has structure near its edge are prime target areas.

In the heat of summer, one of the most productive areas to find the crappie stacked up is around the deeper piers and bridge pilings that may dot the lake you’re fishing.

When fishing bridge pilings, it helps to know where the bridge crosses the channel or the bayou or river. The pilings nearest the deep channels are where you’re more likely to find the fish bunched up because likely as not, schools of shad will have taken a liking to the cooler depths as well. When you find shad, no matter the time of year, you’re likely to find crappie as well.

Summer is here and the heat is on. However, if you follow this expert’s advice and if you can handle the hot sun beating down on your head, you stand a good chance of bringing in a box of slabs.

FISHING REPORT  8-12-20

CANEY LAKE – Bream have slowed but some can still be caught on worms and crickets fished around the piers. Bass have been fair in schools with most running small to medium in size. Crappie are fair around the deeper tops on shiners and jigs. Catfishing has been good tight-lining cold worms and blood bait. 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 – Bass have been fair fishing around submerged tops and in the cuts and around the drop-offs. Crappie are best fishing the middle of the day or late afternoons on shiners or jigs in 10-14 foot water. Bream are fair on worms and crickets. For latest information, contact the Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707.

LAKE D’ARBONNE – Crappie fishing has been fair on the flats on shiners and jigs fished 8 feet deep in 10-14 foot water. Bass have been best fishing the edges of the channel along the drops on Brush Hogs, Ole Monster worms and Shaky Heads. Bream have slowed and are basically fair on crickets and worms. Catfishing has been good fishing off the banks with cold worms and night crawlers. For latest reports, call Anderson’s Sport Center at 368-9669 or Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707.

LAKE CLAIBORNE – Bream fishing has been good on crickets and worms with most fish running medium to small in size. Crappie have slowed a bit this week with a few caught around the deeper tops on shiners or jigs. Bass have been fair to good with most running medium to small in size fishing soft plastics around the docks and sea walls. Stripers are schooling with best action early and late on spoons and bucktails. Some are also being caught around the lights at night. Catfishing is best tight lining a variety of baits. For latest information, call Tim Loftin at Kel’s Cove at 927-2264.

It was great fun had by all where youngsters were able to play on the brand new equipment and the parents were treated to useful school supplies. The event was the Yumeaka Robinson- Washington for Judge “Back to School” Bash where the candidate for the Division B Judges seat in Jackson, Bienville and Claiborne Parishes greeted the people and donated school supplies.

“I thought it was a great opportunity to not only get parents and children to see and enjoy this wonderful , newly equipped park but to also try and help those who may need it with upcoming school supplies and such.”

Robinson thanks all those who assisted with making the day a successful one and reminds everyone to remember that school will soon be starting so everyone should be extra careful while you are driving to pay attention to the little ones who may be near roadways.

As result of the pandemic many HBCUs are cautiously and hopefully opening their doors for the Fall 2020 semester and are resorting to a combination of in person classes and virtual learning. They must do so to combat potential financial losses, although, some schools are offering online classes only.  Online classes can present serious challenges for some students who live in rural impoverished communities because of the lack of availability of internet and broadband access where they live and more importantly a lack of funds and resources to purchase and support online learning

Recently I spoke with Grambling State University President, Dr. Richard (Rick) Gallot regarding how the Pandemic will impact opening of the university.  Gallot indicated that the campus will open this fall and will adhere to a hybrid approach to learning.  Most students will access classes via the internet from their dormitory rooms on campus.  Students, teachers and staff will be required to follow and abide by CDC guidelines, such as wearing masks, practicing social distancing, practicing good hygiene such as washing of hands, no parties or hosting of mass gatherings, avoiding indoor crowded spaces and sanitizing hard surfaces.  Due to the State of Louisiana nursing requirements, nursing students will be required to attend in class face to- to face settings.

President Gallot also mentioned that on campus students are being provided with new state of the art technology through the FEDERAL CARES ACT with computers, tablets and state of the art Wi-Fi internet connections which will allow students to connect to seven devices including smart TV.  All sports activities are postponed to spring.  Gallot also indicated that dormitories are 90% occupied and online graduate classes are proceeding without interruption

Dr. Walter Kimbrough, president of Dillard University in New Orleans addressing the opening of  universities, noted in a statement to Politico, said:  “A lot of schools are trying to figure out, can we open safely in the fall knowing that we serve a population that is disproportionately impacted by this disease.  Dillard is watching coronavirus rates in Louisiana and will follow state guidelines for schools.”

Recognizing the potential threat of COVID 19, other HBCUs across the nation in consideration of safety and health concerns are optioning to host class entirely online this fall.  Some schools have indicated that they will mandate and employ the use of digital thermometers, COVID 19 test kits for students, restructuring of classrooms for social distancing and reducing campus population.

A recent survey by the United Negro College Fund (UNCF), conducted  with a network of over 37 private HBCUs, including more than 5,000 students, found that 10 % fewer students said they’d return to school if all instruction is online, that students mental and financial well-being was being diminished by the pandemic, and students were three times more likely to consider transferring to a school that’s closer to home”

It is worth noting that many HBCUs representatives are of the considered opinion and warn that a high percentage of students who take time off from school are unlikely to return and graduate, and that many African American students are also having to overcome socioeconomic disparities, thereby exacerbating the effects of the pandemic.

We also note that according to a recent POLITICO/Morning poll, 60 percent of Black voters strongly or somewhat oppose reopening colleges and universities this fall, compared with 48 percent of white voters. When it comes to reopening K-12 schools,66 percent of Black voters are opposed versus 49 percent of whites.

Without question education of minorities is the single most important tool that has been used to liberate people of color from the dungeons of ignorance, grips and depth of poverty.  No question, it is so important that we save Historical Black Colleges and Universities, but we must never place the jingle of a few dollars or financial gains over life, safety and public health issues of our students, faculty, and staff.  We want our children to be educated but we must always be focused on safely opening our schools.  We may be impacted by some of the detriments caused by kids staying at home and learning online, nevertheless the loss of life due to ill equipped, unprepared and unsafe schools due to COVID 19 is totally unacceptable.

Once again, we must pray mightily, asking Almighty God to help and guide us during this crisis situation, to protect our children, faculty and staff, and  to help us to do the right thing, to make the right decisions and leave the rest and right results up to God who has the whole world in his hands.  Students, faculty, and staff be safe!!

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.

What the….. We don’t have any water? This question was asked by virtually everyone on the southern and eastern end of Jonesboro this past Thursday as a major blowout in the line on the Beech Springs Road caused an outage that lasted for hours.

Eventually the water crew of the Jonesboro Public Works system got things back on line but the after effect was that there was a Boil Advisory in place until the lines could be cleared and purified. That was lifted the next day and everything was back in working order as normal.

As one resident who wished not to be identified said. “You don’t think about the guys who work on the lines every day until you don’t have any water, but you sure are thankful for them after they get your water back running.” Well said!

At about 9:30 p.m., July 27, 1975, 33-year-old bank teller Mennie Person was walking by a car dealership called Madison Cadillac when she spotted a unique, custom-made, Cadillac parked on the lot.  She and her husband, Troy, were Cadillac fans.  They owned a 1974 model and were familiar with the 1975 models, but this one was unlike anything she had ever seen.  She was not in the market to buy a new Cadillac, she and Troy were still paying on the one they had, but she just had to get a closer look.  What would it hurt? 

Mennie got closer to the car and noticed that one of the windows was lowered.  She stuck her head in and was admiring the car when someone walked up to her from out of the back parking lot.  The man asked her if she liked the Cadillac, and she said she liked it very much.  The man thanked her and said “That one’s mine, but I’ll buy you one.”  Mennie’s mouth fell open.  She said she and her husband already had a Cadillac and would not be able to pay for a second one.  He explained that he was paying for the car.  It was to be his gift to her.  Mennie was in shock.

The man gently took Mennie by the arm and escorted her to the back parking lot from which he came.  Dozens of brand-new shiny Cadillacs sat waiting for their new homes.  Mennie and the man looked at the different models for just a few minutes.  The man turned to Mennie and told her to “pick one out.”  Mennie was still in a state of shock.  Why would a man she had never met buy her a brand-new Cadillac.  The man patiently waited as Mennie selected a gold and white Cadillac Eldorado.  It listed for about $11,500, which, adjusted for inflation, is just under $50,000 in today’s money.  The man motioned for someone to bring him the keys.

Mennie, still in shock, made small talk with the man.  She thanked him several times and told him that the car was a wonderful birthday present.  Her birthday was just two days away.  Within just a few moments, the man handed Mennie the keys to her brand-new Cadillac and wished her a happy birthday.  The man assured her that all of the paperwork would be taken care of for her.  Since her birthday was coming up, the man handed her a check for an undisclosed amount “to buy some clothes to go with the car.” 

When Mennie mentioned again that she and her husband already owned a Cadillac, the man told her to keep it or to give it to her husband.  She could do whatever she wanted with either Cadillac.  As Mennie provided the necessary information to the dealership to have the vehicle titled in her name, she thought it was too good to be true.  If it was true, would anyone believe her? 

Mennie had never met the generous man who bought her a brand-new Cadillac of her choice, wrote her a check to buy new clothes to go with it, and wished her a happy birthday, but she certainly knew of him.  Everyone, it seemed, knew of him.  Mennie did not need to worry if anyone would believe her.  On her birthday, newspapers around the world shared the story of how Mennie just happened to be in the right place at the right time to receive the generosity of a king.  His name was Elvis Presley.              

For more real stories about real people with a twist, order your copy of “Remember This?” at Amazon.com or listen to his podcast “Brad Dison’s Remember This?”  Brad earned his master’s degree in the subject from Louisiana Tech University. He has written four history books and has been published in newspapers and scholarly journals. Keep up with Brad’s column through the Facebook group “Remember This? by Brad Dison.”

Sources:

1. The Evening Sun (Baltimore, Maryland), July 29, 1975, p.2.
2. Tucson Citizen, July 29, 1975, p.1.
3. The Tennessean (Nashville, Tennessee), July 29, 1975, p.29.

It has been a busy first two weeks of August for Jackson Parish law enforcement officials as evidenced by the long list of offenders shown below. Forty eight arrests in all were made between the dates of August 3^rd thru August 17^th. Twenty two of those were for bench warrants enforced after failing to appear in courts from not only Jackson Parish but surrounding parishes as well. Contributing law enforcements groups were the Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office, Jonesboro Police Department , Hodge Police Department and North Hodge Police Department.

List of offenders:

1. Christopher R. Tyler (Jonesboro, LA) – Bench Warrant, No proof of Insurance, Failure to Secure Driver’s License, Simple Burglary
2. William Baker (Jonesboro, LA) – Disobeying Stop Sign, Expired Driver’s License , Attempted Flight (Resisting)
3. Albert Martin (Bienville, LA) – Theft of Goods, Flight from an Officer, Improper Lane Usage.
4. Michael L. Waldroup (Eros, LA) – Fire Raising on Land, Simple Battery, Disturbing the Peace
5. Troy G. Wiley (Jonesboro, LA) – Warrants – Aggravated Assault , Criminal Mischief
6. Amanda Walsworth (Jonesboro, LA) – Warrant – Driving under Suspension
7. David Flowers (Jonesboro, LA) – Domestic Abuse Battery
8. David Brown (Jonesboro, LA) – Parole Violations
9. Michelle Murphy (Jonesboro, LA) – Bench Warrants – no seat belt, Expired driver’s license, Disobey Stop Signs
10. Shawn J. Lassere (Jonesboro, LA) – Warrants for Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Driving under suspension
11. Jaclyn Duncan (Jonesboro, LA) – Warrants for forgery and theft
12. Carrie Swift (North Hodge, LA) – Bench Warrants for Possession of Schedule II and Legend Drugs
13. John C. Roane (North Hodge, LA) – Warrant for expired driver’s license
14. Sadie L. Mixon (Jonesboro, LA) – Bench Warrants for DWI (1^st offense), Improper Lane Usage
15. Melanie Murphy (West Monroe, LA) – Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Schedule II drug
16. Stevon Tipton (Calhoun, LA) – Fugitive from Lincoln Parish (Violations of Protective Order)
17. Kenneth R. Shows ( Chatham, LA) – Possession of firearm by convicted felon, Possession of Marijuana
18. Jimmy W. Caskey ( North Hodge, LA) – Theft under $100.00
19. Michaela Sneed (Shreveport, LA) – Possession of Schedule I drug
20. Kennard C. West (Jonesboro, LA) – Jackson Parish Bench Warrant ( 2^nd degree battery)
21. Desmond Campbell (Jonesboro, LA) – Disturbing the Peace
22. Sadie Mxon (Jonesboro, LA) – Disturbing the Peace
23. Dusting W. Lebrun (Jonesboro, LA) – Bench Warrant for Possession of Synthetic Cannibas
24. Amy Marie Kelley-Lopez (Quitman, LA)- Possession of Stolen Things, Failure to dim lights, Ouachita Parish Warrants – Simple Burglary x 2, Lincoln Parish Warrants – Simple Burglary x 7, Ruston Police Department – Simple Burglary, Introduction of Contraband, Possession of Schedule II drug
25. John Coy Malachi Parks (Chatham, LA )- Illegal Possession of Stolen Things
26. Daniel B. Rogers (Jonesboro, LA) – Speeding, Reckless Driving, Resisting Arrest x 2
27. Jacob D. Smith (Quitman, LA) – Theft
28. Sidney Daniels (Jonesboro, LA) Bench Warrant for Traffic Violations
29. Debra R. Hughes ( Opelousas, LA – Theft
30. Stephen Doucet (Jonesboro, LA) – Bench Warrant for Driving under suspension
31. Joshua F. Wallzer (Jonesboro, LA) – Warrant for Failure to pay child support
32. Marcus Jackson (Jonesboro, LA) – Warrant for Simple burglary of a motor vehicle, Possession of Schedule I drug (3^rd offense), Possession of Schedule II drug , Possession of Synthetic Drug
33. Chris B. Bowe (Jonesboro, LA) – Disturbing the Peace
34. Charles W Aytens (Chatham, LA) – Execution of Sentence on Warrant
35. Aliswon Mason (Ruston, LA) – Possession of Marijuana, Resisting officer
36. Jimmie Don Amos (Jonesboro, LA) – Aggravated 2^nd degree batters, possession of firearm by convicted felon
37. Derek N, King (Quitman, LA) – Bench Warrant from Lincoln Parish
38. Samuel Watson (Jonesboro, LA) – Possession of Schedule I drug , Expired driver’s license
39. Ricky Caskey (Jonesboro, LA) – Open Container, failure to appear
40. Samantha D. Adams (Jonesboro, LA) – Winn Parish Warrant – issuing worthless checks
41. Jamer Norris (Jonesboro, LA) – Driving under suspension, speeding
42. Tony Lee Sesley JR (Jonesboro, LA) – Jackson Parish Warrant for 2^nd degree battery
43. Charles M. Thompson (Ashland, LA) Disturbing the Peace, Resisting an officer x2
44. Samantha P. Dianne ( Ruston, LA) – Grambling Bench Warrant for Driving under suspension, driving in fire lanes, no seat belt
45. Samuel D. Watson (Jonesboro, LA) – Bench Warrant for Illegal carry of a weapon
46. Kyowa D. Reynolds ( Jonesboro, LA) – Simple Battery
47. Oscar Grimsley (Jonesboro, LA) – Execution of Sentence
48. Alex Sharp (Winnfield, LA) – Simple possession of marijuana, operating off road vehicle on roadway

 

The Jackson Parish Journal is pleased to add a new Classifieds section where you can post items for sale, offer job opportunities, professional services, etc… 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” – An in-depth, year by year review of each season that includes names of players from virtually every year and individual/school records. Cost is $25.00 per copy plus $3.00 shipping and handling. To place your order, call 318-480-1206.

Help wanted:

HODGE BANK AND TRUST COMPANY IS HIRING!!  BOTH EXPERIENCED AND ENTRY LEVEL POSITIONS AVAILABLE. SALARY, BENEFITS AND GREAT HOURS.  PLEASE CALL 318-259-7362 FOR AN APPOINTMENT.

Organizations:

Boy Scouts of America – For boys in 6^th grade through 18 years old. For more information contact: Dawn Slezak at (713) 824-1772.

Cub Scouts of America – For boys and girls in Kindergarten through the 5^th grade. For more information contact: Dawn Slezak at (713) 824 – 1772.

Services offered:

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

A1 Honey Do, LLC – Boat house, deck building and repairs. A Limited Liability Corporation (LLC). For estimates contact Mark Droesser, Owner at 318-366-7598 “We do what your honey can’t do”.

Public Notices:

Town of Jonesboro Board of Alderman Meeting Minutes

Tuesday, August 11, 2020

Public Hearing

Called to order by Mayor Leslie Thompson at 5:30 P.M.

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

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

Ordinance #2020-004 Tax Collector Raise, Ordinance #2020-005 Council Raise, Ordinance #2020-006 Sewer Budget, Ordinance #2020-007 Water Budget, and Ordinance #2020-008 Juneteenth Holiday The public was given the opportunity to ask questions regarding any of the ordinances. There was some discussion.

Agenda

Amendments- Resolution #2020-031, Ordinance #2020-010, Ordinance #2020-011, Executive Session, Take off Kenneth Folden Contract. Motion by Stringer, seconded by Siadek. Motion carried.

Stringer made a motion to change the order of the agenda to move the Public Hearing discussed Ordinances below “Mayor’s Update”, seconded by Siadek. Flowers opposed. Motion Carried.

Public Comments- There were no public comments.

Approval of July Minutes: Motion by Flowers to approve July’s minutes, seconded by Stringer. Motion carried.

Approval of July Bills: Motion to approve July’s bills made by Johnson. Seconded by Stringer. Motion carried.

Approval of July Financials:  Motion by Stringer to approve the July financials, Seconded by Flowers. Motion carried.

Mayor’s Update: “One team, one dream.”

Ordinance #2020-006 Sewer Budget: A motion was made by Stringer to amend Ordinance #2020-006, seconded by Flowers. Motion carried.

Ordinance #2020-0010 Sewer Budget Amendment: A motion was made by Stringer to adopt Ordinance #2020-010, seconded by Flowers. Motion carried.

Ordinance #2020-007 Water Budget: Motion by Siadek to amend Ordinance #2020-007, seconded by Stringer. Motion carried.

Ordinance #2020-011 Water Budget Amendment:  Motion by Siadek to adopt Ordinance #2020-011, seconded by Johnson. Motion carried.

Ordinance #2020-008 Juneteenth Holiday: Stringer made a motion to adopt Ordinance #2020-008, seconded by Flowers. Motion carried.

Ordinance #2020-004 Tax Collector Raise: Motion by Stringer to adopt Ordinance #2020-00, seconded by Flowers. Motion carried.

A motion was made by Stringer to correct the wording on the Clerk and Tax Collector’s salary from “fixed” to “salaried”, seconded by Johnson. Motion carried.

Ordinance #2020-005 Council Raise: Stringer made a motion to adopt Ordinance #2020-005, seconded by Siadek. Flowers opposed. Motion carried.

Audit Questionnaire: Motion by Flowers to adopt the Audit Questionnaire, seconded by Johnson. Motion carried.

Department Head Reports:  Fire Chief Brandon Brown, Police Chief James Harris, and Public Works Director Calvin Wortham gave a monthly update on each of their departments.

Approval of Department Head Reports: Flowers motion to approve the Department Head Reports, seconded by Siadek. Motion carried.

Police Termination-D’Corrian Livingston: Flowers made a motion to accept the termination, seconded by Johnson. Motion carried.

Police New Hire-Faylon  Napper: Motion by Siadek to approve the new hire, seconded by Stringer. Motion carried.

Mobil Home-920 S. Polk St.- Flowers made a motion to approve the mobile home on 920 S. Polk St., seconded by Siadek. Motion carried.

Consent Decree: There was some discussion regarding the consent decree the Town was served with.

Resolution #2020-029-Authorizing Mayor to purchase new meters: Siadek made a motion to table Resolution #2020-029, seconded by Johnson. Motion carried.

Resolution #2020-030-Incur Debt: Siadek made a motion to table Resolution #2020-030, seconded by Johnson. Motion carried.

James Bradford-zoning: Mr. Bradford expressed his concerns regarding the zoning of 705 Leon Dr. He requested the council to consider rezoning the area as Residential instead of Business.

Surplus Bids-Fire Trucks: Flowers made a motion to accept the bid made by Emergency Vehicle Resource, seconded by Stringer. Motion carried.

Resolution #2020-028-Fire Trucks: Johnson made a motion to adopt Resolution #2020-028, seconded by Siadek. Motion carried.

Fire Trucks Lease Agreement-Government Capitol : Johnson made a motion to accept the terms of the lease agreement, seconded by Flowers. Motion carried.

Resolution #2020-031 DEQ- Sewer Compliance Upgrade: Flowers made a motion to adopt Resolution #2020-031, seconded by Stringer. Motion carried.

Executive Session: Stringer made a motion to enter executive session, seconded by Siadek. Motion carried.

Stringer made a motion to come out of executive session, seconded by Flowers. Motion carried.

Ordinance #2020-009 Water Rates: Stringer made a motion to introduce Ordinance #2020-009 and set a public hearing for September 8, 2020 at 5:30 p.m.

Council Comments: Comments were expressed.

Mayor Comments: Comments were expressed.

Adjournment: Flowers made a motion to adjournment the meeting, seconded by Stringer. Motion carried.

JACKSON PARISH WARD TWO FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT

189 Vernon-Eros Road, Ruston, LA. 71270

Office 318-249-3300 Fax 318-249-3340, e-mail – w2fpdjackson@gmail.com

Tax I.D. #72-1400917

 The Ward Two Fire Protection District Board of Commissioners met in regular session on August 11, 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. There was one public visitor recognized, Mrs. Deana Thomas.

There were 1-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, addition of apparatus per Mr. Hopkins request, and proceed into business, motion Mr. Hopkins, second Mr. Fallin, motion carried. Motion entertained by Mr. Williams to accept the minutes from July 14, 2020 meeting minutes, motion Mr. Hopkins, second Mr. Fallin, motion carried. Corrections/Approval: None.

 In the order of Old Business: Chief Manning delivered the July Fire report for 5 total calls as follows: 2 Fire, 0 Grass/Brush, 0 EMS, 2 MVA, 1 public tree removals. Fuel report for July was on hand of 327.9 gallons, fuel usage was 33.1 gallons. Apparatus/Equipment Maintenance – None. Misc. the signs are still in process of being placed around the ward, need to order some more signs. PIAL – Getting bids on clearing and leveling new training site have received oneVbid so far. July training 9 members attended. Purchasing agent reports for July 2020 was reviewed. Gap Report was noVchange at 100%. P card addressed with 2 signatures, Mr. Jim Manning and Ms. Donna Snow, on account and $2000.00 monthly limit and a P Card policy developed for P Card use, Mr. Williams entertained motion, motion Mr. Fallin second Mr. Hopkins, motion carried. Land clearing bid by J & L Works LLC acceptance if no lower bids, motion entered by Mr. Hopkins, second Mr. Fallin, motion carried. 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 07/31/20 was presented. The bill review was completed by Mr. Williams. Presentation of Bills for July was discussed. A resolution was read in full as follows: BE IT RESOLVED, that the following millage(s) are hereby levied on the 2020 tax roll on all property subject to taxation by Ward Two Fire Protection District:

MILLAGE

Ward Two Fire Protection District, Maintenance & Operation 11.23 mills

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the proper administrative officials of the Parish of Jackson, State of Louisiana, be and they are hereby empowered, authorized, and directed to spread said taxes, as hereinabove set forth, upon the assessment roll of said Parish for the year 2020, and to make the collection of the taxes imposed for and on behalf of the taxing authority, according to law, and that the taxes herein levied shall become a permanent lien and privilege on all property subject to taxation as herein set forth, and collection thereof shall be enforceable in the manner provided by law.

The foregoing resolution was read in full; the roll was called on the adoption thereof, and the resolution was adopted by the following votes: Yeas-3 Nays-0 Abstained-0 Absent -2 Mr. Williams entertained motion to retain Mrs. Deana Thomas as Ward 2 Fire Protection District notary, motion Mr. Fallin, second Mr. Hopkins, motion carried.

 The Action List was reviewed- added equipment apparatus for acquisition of rescue truck for Vernon Station. 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 7:50 p.m.

M.A. Williams, Chairman

Donna Snow, Secretary

Larry Melvin Pardue                 May 13, 1938 – August 13, 2020

Mr. Larry Melvin Pardue Sr., age 82 of Jonesboro, LA passed away peacefully at his home while surrounded by his family on August 13, 2020. Larry was born in LeCompte, La on May 13, 1938. He is preceded in death by his parents Victor Carl and Jewel (Tumlin) Pardue, brothers Victor and John Pardue, sisters Max Quarles and Connie Spurlock.

Larry is survived by his wife of 61 years, Juliette Saint Pardue. Together they raised 5 children Tamera Morgan (Stephen), Lauri Brown, (Scott), Susie Nomey, Larry Jr. (Samantha), Joey Pardue (Kori), plus 2 bonus children Troy Dane Johnston and Wendy Davis, all of Jonesboro. He will be remembered by 10 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren.

Larry was a proud graduate of Weston High School. He co-founded Pardue & Quarles in 1969, alongside his late brother-in-law John Ed Quarles. He created a business that felt like home to all that walked in, whether it was drinking coffee in the back or swapping stories about what the fish were biting even though he wouldn’t tell a soul what bait he used. He was the epitome of a hard working man. Larry was passionate about the community and his church. He was a member of First Baptist Church of Jonesboro. He was a staple in the Jonesboro community.  Larry was known for his quick wit, big smile, and love for his family. He kept things interesting with his jokes, dancing, and stubborn demeanor. Larry spent many hours with his kids and grandkids on the pond, in the deer stand, or in the garden. He’d take you fishing, but you can bet he stood at the back of the boat to put himself on the fish. And don’t think he’d give up a shot at a buck, even if it was his 10 year old granddaughters first hunt.

Larry was an avid outdoorsman, it didn’t matter what time of the year it was but you could find him pulling a 4-wheeler, a boat, or a tractor. He’s hunted all over the south and has the antlers to prove it. When hunting season was over, you could find him in his garden or on the lake. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: First Baptist Church Building & Grounds fund or the charity of your choice.

Brenda Michelle Bishop          Sept. 29, 1962 – August 15, 2020

Mrs. Brenda M. Bishop, age 57 of Hodge, entered into Heaven on Saturday, August 15, 2020.  She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and a friend to many.  Mrs. Bishop was a retired merchandiser who loved spending time with her family and watching her grandchildren grow.

Those left to cherish her memory are her husband, Michael Bishop; children, Michael Paul Ellington & Ashlee, Kevin Ellington & Rachel, Jason Bishop; grandchildren, Eli Ellington, Carson Ellington, Whitten Ellington, Ayla Ellington, Callan Ellington, James Ellington, Sadie Ellington; siblings, Denise Foy & James, Micheal Quinton, Amanda Woods & Brian; uncle, Robert Quinton, Jr.; step-father, Thomas Chesney; a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.  Mrs. Bishop was preceded in death by her parents, Robert Quinton, Sr. and Sandra Faye (Whitten) Chesney; grandparents, Robert Whitten and Melba (Duck) Whitten.

A memorial service will be held 1:00 pm Wednesday, August 19, 2020 at North Hodge Assembly of God Church with Reverend Geary Phillips officiating. In lieu of flowers Brenda had requested that donations be made to Pilots for Patients at http://www.pilotsforpatients.org or Pilots for Patients, 3127 Mercedes Drive, Monroe, LA 71201

***COVID-19 Precautions of Mask & Social Distancing Should Be Observed For Service Attendance***

George Edward Freeman        Sept. 09, 1962 – August 15, 2020

Mr. George Edward Freeman, age 57 of Jonesboro, died Saturday, August 15, 2020, following a period of declining health.  Mr. Freeman loved the outdoors and he loved his family. Those left to cherish his memory are his life partner, Linda Boykin; son, Cody Freeman; siblings, Peggy Alford and Lewis Freeman; a host of other family and friends.  Mr. Freeman was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond Edward Freeman and Iva (Davis) Freeman.

There will be memorial service held in his honor 6:00 -8:00 pm Tuesday, August 25, 2020 in the chapel of Edmonds Funeral Home of Jonesboro. The family has requested that in lieu of flowers donations in his honor be made to the charity of your choice.

***COVID-19 Precautions of Mask & Social Distancing Should Be Observed For Service Attendance***

Ted Bosch                  December 26, 1970 – August 11, 2020

Mr. Ted Warren Bosch, age 49 of Dry Prong, passed away on Tuesday, August 11, 2020.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Leonard and Dorothy Bosch; father-in-law, Jon Odom. Those left to cherish his memory are his wife, Carol Odom Bosch; children, Erin Bosch, Adam Bosch; grandchildren, Kai Matu’u, Kane Matu’u; siblings, Deidra Terral and Terry, Pat Bosch and Lisa, Christy Luke and Reynold, Tim Bosch and Melissa; mother-in-law, Barbara Otwell and Dennis; brother-in-law, Daryl Odom; a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. A memorial services will be announced at a later date.

 

Cleasy Ernest Futrell        February 02, 1942 – August 12, 2020

Mr. Cleasy Ernest Futrell, age 78 of Quitman, went to his heavenly home on Wednesday, August 12, 2020.  He retired from the Hodge Paper Mill after 42 years of employment.  Mr. Futrell was a very creative and talented artist who also enjoyed time spent gardening.  He was a devoted minister who truly loved the Lord and he will be remembered for being a wonderful man of God.  His family was his prized possession and he loved each of his family members with his whole heart.

Mr. Futrell is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Eula Murphy Futrell; his son, Adam Futrell and wife Rachel; grandchildren, Crystal Futrell, Chris Futrell and wife Traci, D.J. Futrell and wife Amanda, Courtney Futrell, John Walker and wife Jessica, Carrie-Lynn and Grace Futrell, Dakoda Morse, Cheyenne Nugent and husband Lee, Nathan Morse and A.J. Futrell; great grandchildren, Maci Futrell, Abigail Futrell, Gabi Lee Futrell, Chris Futrell, Jr., Nevaeh Futrell, Lucas Futrell, Laila Futrell, Alec, Bella Walker, Jules Walker, Ellington Walker, Nova Lee and Natalie Nugent; sisters, Diana Hammons and husband Charles, Pat Mason; brother, Charles Futrell and wife Becky; brother-in-law, Jerry Murphy and wife Wanda; sisters-in- law, Girline Smith, Martha Murphy; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and loved ones.  He was preceded in death by his son, Dennis Futrell; parents, E.J. and Helen Futrell; siblings, Doyle Futrell, Mary Ellen, Deloris and husband Travis; nephew, Edwin Futrell; great grandchildren, Willow Raine, Mauryk-Renn; sisters-in-law, Allie Lunsford, Laverne Murphy, Lois Carlile; brothers-in-law, Wayne Murphy, T.D.”Doc” Murphy, J.C. Carlile, Marion Smith, Tommy Lunsford.

A graveside service was had at Springhill Cemetery at 3:00PM with Reverend Rick Cole officiating.  Burial followed under the direction of Southern-Edmonds Funeral Home. Serving the family as pallbearers were Chris Futrell, D.J. Futrell, Dakoda Morse, Nathan Morse, A.J. Futrell, Lee Nugent.  Honorary Pallbearers will be Terry Carpenter, Randy Mason, Allen Hammons.

 

Murline Brooks                           March 12, 1944 – August 11, 2020

Mrs. Murline Brooks, age 76 of Monroe and formerly of Quitman, went to be with her Lord and Savior Tuesday, August 11, 2020.  She was a nurse that enjoyed exploring her recipe books and cooking.  Mrs. Murline was a huge fan of Christmas time and loved making Christmas crafts.  She loved and adored her family and church family.

She is survived by her children, Tina Brooks, Staci Spurlock, Dr. Steven Futrell; siblings, Robert Barry Shug and Patricia Ann (Aldy) Womack; sister-in- law, Fannie Fletcher; a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.  She was preceded in death by her husband, Cecil Aubrey Brooks; parents, Murlin and Willie Womack. A graveside service was held at the Mount Olive East Cemetery with Reverend Charles Penuell officiating.  Burial was under the direction of Southern-Edmonds Funeral Home. Serving the family as pallbearers were Gilbert Pickens, Dwight Lamkin, Steve Matlock, Jody Terral, Mathew Boughton, Eric Holers, Tom Teprovich. In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made the Alzheimer’s Association.

The Jackson Parish Recreation Department Complex already offers more amenities than most any in north Louisiana. It is soon going to become second to none thanks to the approval of the Jackson Parish Recreation Board who agreed to move forward with a multi-million dollar outdoor pavilion project.

Board member’s Brent Barnett, Ricky Cash, Brandon Lamkin, Rodney Potts, Sullivan Stevens and Chris Womack unanimously agreed to move forward with the project at their July 20^th meeting after engineer Paul Riley of Riley Company in Ruston discussed the plans and costs involved for construction. Jeff Hairston was absent.

Per Riley, the budget money would consist of the following:

1. $278,000.00 to be paid by the state
2. $250,000.00 – $400,000.00 to be paid by the Jackson Parish Police Jury
3. $1,722,000.00 – $1,872,000.00 to be paid by Jackson Parish Recreation District (depending on how much the JP Police Jury provides)

“This is a great day for the people of Jackson Parish,” said Recreation Director Tommy Smith. “To be able to have an outdoor pavilion on the grounds is something that we have been wanting for years. Thanks need to be given to our board members who have worked diligently to make this dream come true.”

Once completed such long standing traditions that have gone by the wayside over the past years as the Jackson Parish Rodeo and Play Days can take place again. The pavilion also will allow for many additional parish activities to take place as well.

In other action the board agreed to enter into a $8,287.01 Cooperative Endeavor Agreement with the Town of Chatham to purchase 4 trash receptacles, 4 surface mount pedestals, 4 picnic tables and concrete for pads.

Nathan Crane of Watermark Golf presented his findings for the golf course renovation program and the board rejected all bids for the LCWF tennis courts. Director Smith gave an update on the ongoing summer sports programs, Rebecca Williams did the same on the golf course and all financials and minutes from June were approved.

The next regular scheduled meeting was set for Monday, August 17^th at 12:00 noon at the Charles H. Garrett Community Center in Jonesboro.

At the regularly scheduled monthly meeting of the Ward 3 Fire Protection District held on August 3rd at the Chatham Fire Station training room board members Freddy Tolar, Dwight Cooper, Wayne Whitman and Margaret Waggoner unanimously agreed to adopt a resolution to set millage rates for 2020 at 9.99 mils. James Mixon was absent.

In other action the board received a final update on the sale of a truck, discussed purchasing a new mower and heard the updated plans on the new training building which now has the road completed to it. Also a policy was adopted announcing that the district would no long fill in swimming pools.

Entire minutes of the meeting are shown in Classifieds section of the Jackson Parish Journal.

It looks like we will have a prep football season after all. That is if the state of Louisiana has moved to Phase 3 by then. This past week the Louisiana High School Athletic Association (LHSAA) sent a memo to member schools by Executive Director Eddie Bonine outlining certain regulations and guidelines pertaining to football, volleyball, cross country and swimming.

Notable recommendations implemented for the sport of football now state that scrimmages and jamborees are no longer an option this fall. The association had previously mentioned the possibility of preseason contests taking place the week before an October 8th regular season start date.

Team boxes are now extended an additional ten yards to each team’s respective 15-yard line. Within the box only essential personnel is permitted and all must wear a mask and maintain a six foot distance at all times. Players, when not playing, must also wear a mask.

It has also been determined that instead of schools reworking schedules for a shortened season that the season would start with each school playing teams shown on the third week of the schedule . While some parameters have been set there is still discussion going on about how long the regular season will be and how many playoff teams would be considered.

Currently a six game regular season followed by the playoffs and the state championships to be played on the weekend of December 12^th, which is the normal time that the state title games are played in the Superdome, seems to have the most leverage.

A longer regular season with shortened playoffs and moving the state championship venues to other locations are also being considered as well as re-combining “select” and “non-select” schools in the playoffs for a one year period.  Also noted was that football teams could have the option of playing a bowl game as an “extra” contest should it not make its respective playoff field.

For olympic fall sports, similar guidelines were also established. You may read more about each sport’s guidelines by clicking HERE.

It was short and sweet and now it is over for summer league play of the Jackson Parish Recreation Department. All in all it turned out to be a very successful campaign as despite all the restrictions and problems caused by the COVID-19 epidemic the eight teams that competed were able to finish the season without a hitch.

“We were very happy with the way things turned out,” said JPRD director Tommy Smith. “To say that we had challenges to meet is an understatement but thanks to the staff, parents, coaches and the players we made it through with no problems.”

Six league champions were crowned with Leach’s Turf Divas’ (9-10 girls) and Catfish Inn (11-13 girls) winning titles in undefeated fashion. Additional league winners were:  Heyhunner’s (7-8 girls), Traina’s Bakery (7-8 boys), Rhode’s Farms (9-10 boys) and Jonesboro Glass (11-13 boys).

All-Star teams announced

Girl’s teams from the 7-8 and 12U leagues from Jackson Parish were selected that took part in All-Star competition this past weekend. Due to publishing deadlines complete tournament results and game scores will be provided in the August 19^th edition of the Jackson Parish Journal. Rosters for each are:

Jackson Parish 12U All-Stars: Players-  Maggie Guyotte, Peyton Muse, Skylar Hall, Anna Grace Lee, Madison Brymer, Elli Dickerson, Zoie Anderson, Allison Phelps, Gracee Barton, Chloe James. Coaches- Brian Guyotte, Reggie Hall, Scott Jach

Jackson Parish 7-8 Coach Pitch All-Stars: Players – Hannah Aldy, London Burks, Teegan Hall, Sally Keiffer, Landry Horsfall, Skylar Lamkin, Mykenzie Macoy, Tessa Reeves, Ella Simonelli, Amelia Staggs, Maggie Wall, Ryleigh Trahan, Rachel Bandy. Coaches – Patrick Staggs, Corey Aldy, Kristyne Anderson, April Simonelli

If you have kept up with my writing and broadcasting for the past bunch of years, I don’t

have to tell you of my interest in song birds. One of the pleasures I enjoy is to sit on my back porch, bird book, binoculars, camera and cup of coffee in hand and enjoy all the flit and flutter that is going on in my back yard.

            I keep my bird feeders filled, one for hummingbirds and one for song birds that are making sure they’re not going hungry.

            Several species are regulars, some almost too regular. I don’t know how many blue jays have been reared in the trees and bushes around the yard but I sometimes see as many as seven or eight at a time scarfing down sunflower seeds. One thing rather comical is to watch either a fledgling from this year of a teenager who lives in his mother’s basement, a bird fully as large as a grown-up jay, sitting and fluttering its wings begging for a parent to offer him a morsel. Big baby.

            Others that are regular daily visitors are cardinals. We were somewhat excited when we watched a female cardinal making regular trips to a gardenia growing just outside my office window. Upon investigating the shrub, I spotted a nest; they reared a brood of little cardinals within spitting distance of my window

            Others have taken advantage of the free lodging we have provided in the form of three bird boxes I have hung around the yard. First, there was a tufted titmice pair that reared a brood of six little fluffy fellows in one of the boxes.

            Next, a pair of Carolina wrens liked a box I mounted on the back fence, not that wrens needed a traditional nesting site. I have had them make nests in an old pair of boots on the porch, in my wife’s hanging basket by the front door and one time wrens kept me off the lake for a few weeks when they built a nest under the seat of my bass boat.

            A rather sad commentary happened with our bluebirds. I have a box mounted on a pole out front and I was pleased to note that bluebirds began building a nest. Soon there were four pretty blue eggs in the box. I would periodically check to see if the eggs had started to hatch and became worried after several weeks when there were no baby birds in the box and it appeared they had been abandoned.

            There is a feral housecat that hung around the yard and I assumed that perhaps the cat had caught the female bluebird, so it was with a bit of regret that I removed the nest and abandoned eggs. Within a week, bluebirds began constructing another nest and soon, there were four eggs. I was relieved that finally I’d have a clutch of baby bluebirds to watch out for.

            I was pleased to see that one of the eggs hatched and I kept an eye out for the others to follow suit. I walked out one morning to check on my birds and found the lone baby bird dead and the eggs missing. What happened? I have no idea except I know I won’t be watching four little bluebirds try their wings.

            I have spotted a new bird I had never seen around the back yard feeder. I thought at first I was looking at some species of miniature woodpecker because the little dark gray and white bird flew with the same undulating up and down way a woodpecker flies. When it lit on the trunk of a backyard oak, it scooted up the trunk just like a woodpecker. Checking my bird book, I learned I was looking at a white breasted nuthatch, a bird I had never seen. So far I have not been able to get a photo of the bird but I’m not giving up just yet because I’ve seen it several times

            This blasted coronavirus has curtailed so much of what we’ve been able to do but at least I have my back porch, my bird book, binoculars, camera and coffee to keep me occupied.  

Sometimes a person can have talent, ambition, take all the right steps, and make all the right moves, but is unable to achieve success.  It usually takes an act beyond their control to reach their goal.  It can be a chance meeting or just being in the right place at the right time.  Oftentimes, it can be a coincidence, and other times it can be as the result of an accident.  George’s life changed as a result of one such accident. 

Shortly after 3:30 a.m. on Friday, November 19, 1954, George and Charles left Las Vegas, Nevada, en route to Universal-International Pictures at Studio City, Los Angeles, California.  George was going to the movie studio to record the theme song “Six Bridges to Cross,” for the motion picture of the same name.  George agreed to record the song because he was good friends with Tony Curtis, star of the picture, and Jeff Chandler, the song’s lyricist and narrator for the picture, and because it was a good professional move to have his voice heard during the opening credits.  George had made some television appearances, but most of his work was on the nightclub circuit.  This was to be George’s first credited recording for a motion picture, and he hoped this recording would elevate his career to new heights.     

The trip should have taken them just over four and a half hours to complete.  George and Charles left Las Vegas following one of George’s performances as part of the Will Mastin Trio at the Last Frontier Hotel.  Unable to sleep from the adrenaline the show had produced, George told Charles that he could get some sleep.  He, George, would drive.  Charles climbed into the back seat of George’s convertible and quickly fell asleep.       

Just after 7:00 a.m., with about an hour left in their trip, George drove down Kendall Drive in San Bernardino, California.  Up ahead, a car operated by 72-year-old Helen Boss was stopped in the middle of the road.  She and her passenger, 69-year-old Bessie Ross, had missed their turn and were preparing to turn the car around.  George saw no brake lights, nor did he see a blinker.  Once he realized the car was stopped in the highway, he slammed on the brakes.  It was too late.  George’s convertible slammed into the stopped car.  Mrs. Boss suffered a back injury and Mrs. Ross suffered a broken leg.  Charles was thrown from the back seat into the rear of the front seat and broke his jaw.  The force of the impact slammed George’s face into the hard-plastic and metal steering wheel.  George received several cuts on his face, but the most damaging was a severe gash to his left eye. 

Paramedics rushed George, Charles, and the women from the stopped car to the hospital.  Dr. Frederick H. Hull, a well-known San Bernardino eye specialist, examined George’s eye.  Later that evening, Dr. Hull operated on George, but, unfortunately, Dr. Hull was unable to repair and save George’s left eye.  As a protective measure, Dr. Hull covered both of George’s eyes with bandages.     

Entertainers and movie stars called the hospital to check on George.  So many of them called that the switchboard jammed.  George received hundreds of telegrams from entertainers, some he knew, most he had never met.  He received hundreds of letters from fans wishing him a speedy recovery.  In addition to telephone calls, telegrams, and letters, George received flowers and gifts from famous people, many of whom were not personal acquaintances.  Well-wishers included such notables as Judy Garland, Louella Parsons, Jack Benny, Mary Livingston, Jeff Chandler, Will Mastin, Sammy Davis, Frank Sinatra, Eddie Cantor, and Red Skelton, just to name a few.

Some of his friends even offered to give George one of their own eyes.  However, whole eye transplants were, and remain, medically impossible.  During the operation, Dr. Hull repaired George’s eye socket so that he could eventually use a false eye, and the false eye would move in unison with his good eye. 

George was in good spirits throughout his recovery.  When George awoke from surgery and realized his left eye had been removed, he quipped to nurse Iona Smith, “Thank God it was my eye and not my leg.”  He would not allow the loss of one eye hinder his career as a nightclub entertainer.  Three days after the operation, Dr. Hull removed the bandages from both of George’s eyes.  Nurse Smith said George “was very happy that he was able to see again.”  “God must have had His arms around me,” George said, “Otherwise, I would be blind today.”  “This can’t hurt me,” George said bravely, “I can still dance as well as I could before.  I can still sing as well.  Nothing has changed.”    

Just as George had predicted, his return to the stage was triumphant.  In fact, he reemerged as a larger star than he had been before.  Suddenly, people with more clout in the entertainment industry started paying attention to George’s many talents.  Before the accident, George only appeared in three Hollywood “short” films.  Following the accident, however, George secured nightclub bookings in multiple cities for the Will Mastin Trio.  George received offers to appear on Broadway, television, and in movies.  He eventually starred in more than seventy television and film productions in a career which lasted until his death in 1990.     

Following his accident, he also began a ten-year recording career with Decca Records, followed by another ten-year contract with Reprise Records, and shorter recording contracts with companies such as Verve Records, Motown Records, and MGM Records.  Although he had many hit songs, his only number one single came in 1972, some eighteen years after his accident.

Had George not lost his left eye as a result of an automobile accident, we might never have seen him in “Ocean’s Eleven,” “Robin and the 7 Hoods,” and, “The Cannonball Run.”  We might never have heard him sing “Candy Man.”  The omission of Junior behind Sammy Davis’s name in the list of well-wishers was no accident.  You see, it was Sammy Davis’s son who lost his left eye in the car crash.  George was the middle name of Sammy Davis Jr.

For more real stories about real people with a twist, order your copy of “Remember This?” at www.BradDison.com or listen to his podcast “Brad Dison’s Remember This?”  Brad earned his master’s degree in the subject from Louisiana Tech University. He has written four history books and has been published in newspapers and scholarly journals. Keep up with Brad’s column through the Facebook group “Remember This? by Brad Dison.”

Sources:

1. The Napa Valley Register, November 20, 1954, p.1.
2. 2. The San Bernardino County Sun, November 20, 1954, p.19.
3. 3. The San Bernardino County Sun, November 21, 1954, p.17.
4. 4. Daily News-Post and Monrovia News-Post, November 22, 1954, p.14.
5. 5. Oakland Tribune, November 23, 1954, p.24.
6. 6. Pasadena Independent, November 23, 1954, p.16.
7. 7. The San Bernardino County Sun, November 23, 1954, p.26.
8. 8. Daily Independent Journal (San Rafael, California), December 1, 1954, p.4.
9. 9. The Sacramento Bee, December 4, 1954, p.11.
10. 10. The San Bernardino County Sun, December 4, 1954, p.29.
11. 11. Valley Times (North Hollywood, California), December 7, 1954, p.2.
12. 12. The Folsom Telegraph, December 16, 1954, p.11.
13. 13. The Press Democrat (Santa Rosa, California), January 10, 1955, p.2.
14. IMDb.com. “Sammy Davis Jr.” Accessed August 3, 2020. https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0002035/?ref_=fn_al_nm_1#actor.
15. YouTube.com. “The Candy Man.” Accessed August 4, 2020. https://youtu.be/o5vFvt3fJpw.

For the past several years it seems a pair of students from at least one of our local schools qualifies for the National High School Bass Fishing Championships. It should come as no surprise as Jackson Parish and surrounding area has some of the best fisheries in the entire nation that allows for all kinds of different strategies to be used.

It won’t be long that another season will begin as evidenced by the dates shown below for the fall qualifier rounds for the 2020-21 season. Teams can fish any or all of the qualifiers no matter what area they are located.

1. September 12- Doiron’s Landing, both sides, Stephensville, LA (East Division)
2. October 10- Red River, Grand Ecore Landing, Natchitoches (North division)
3. November 7th- Calcasieu River, Moss Bluff (West Division)

Fishing report for area waterways for August 9^th-16th

CANEY LAKE – A good many bream are being caught fishing around the piers on worms and crickets. Bass are schooling and running from small to average size. However some bigger fish in the 5-7 pound range are in deeper water with oversized plastic worms and crank baits picking up some. Crappie have slowed and are only fair this week. Catfishing has been good tight-lining cold worms and blood bait. 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 – There is little current in the river this week. Crappie have been fair fishing 8-9 feet deep in 12 foot water around the tops on jigs, especially those with blue, chartreuse and purple colors. Bass have been best fishing the cuts with shad imitation lures. Bream are fair on worms and crickets. For latest information, contact the Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707.

LAKE D’ARBONNE – Crappie fishing has been fair on the flats on shiners and jigs. Bass have been good at night on dark colored plastic worms and dark spinner baits. During daylight hours, they are best fishing the deep holes and channel drops with crank baits, wacky worms, jigs and spinners. Bream are fair on crickets and worms. Catfishing has been good fishing off the banks with cold worms and night crawlers. For latest reports, call Anderson’s Sport Center at 368-9669 or Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707.

 LAKE CLAIBORNE – Bass fishing has been fair with some caught at night on dark spinners and soft plastics. Crappie fishing continues to be good fishing jigs or shiners 12-15 deep around submerged brush sitting in 20 foot water. Catfish are fair tight-lining cold worms. Bream are fair but running rather small. Stripers are schooling and hitting shad imitations while trolling for them with white bucktails is also working. For latest information, call Tim Loftin at Kel’s Cove at 927-2264.

If you know much of anything about the history of WWII you’ll recall these two main arenas of battle: European Theater of Operations (ETO) and Pacific Theater of Operations (PTO). However, most people are unaware there was another, little known third arena, called the China-Burma- India Theater of Operations (CBI).

Due to its extreme isolation, the CBI theater was the most difficult to supply for Allied forces during World War II. The fighting was vicious and consistent. CBI provided the reason for the unit called the “FLYING TIGERS,” under command of Major general Claire Chennault. Early in the war, General Chennault’s American Volunteer Group (AVG) of fighter pilots had valiantly held off superior numbers of Japanese planes.

Chennault was from the great state of Louisiana and there’s an extensive museum in his honor in Monroe. The Chennault Aviation and Military Museum, home of the “Flying Tigers” is currently closed due to Covid-19, but WELL worth the visit as soon as they reopen.

Another distinguished combat group was Merrill’s Marauders who made an impact on the Burma campaign that far outweighed their numerical strength as the only American Infantry regiment in Asia. The Marauders fought much like our Special Forces of today. Numerous soldiers from Jackson Parish served in the CBI Theater in various countries and various capacities. Here are a few:

T/Sgt. DAVID L. CROWSON – Son of Mr. and Mrs. R. A. Crowson from Jonesboro and husband of Helen Lockhart. He entered Army Air Corp, 1940 and trained in Louisiana, Illinois, and Wisconsin. He served in ATO and APO in India and China. He was awarded Pre-Pearl Harbor, APO Ribbon and 1 Battle Star, Unit Citation Victory and Good Conduct. Discharged in 1945. (Crowson is the father of Jonesboro’s Charlotte Bailey, and she reports her father reenlisted in the U. S. Air Force in 1949 and served his country until 1963 until he retired from service)

F/O FLOYD B. FULLERTON- Son of Mr. and Mrs. F. F. Fullerton of Jonesboro and a graduate of Jonesboro Hodge High. He entered the army in 1940 and trained at Barksdale Field, La and Scott Field, Ill. He served in ETO, Awarded ETO, ATO, and CBI. He was KILLED in action in India in 1943 and received the Purple Heart.

Sgt. JAMES D. RASBERRY – Son of Mr. and Mrs. Sanders Rasberry of Hodge and graduate of Jonesboro High. He entered the Army Air Corp in 1943 and trained at Barksdale Field, La. Hamilton Field, Cal., March Field Cal., and Moffett Field Cal. Rasberry served in China, Burma, and India and was awarded Good Conduct, APO, CBI and Victory Ribbons. He was WOUNDED in Burma in 1941 and discharged in 1944.

Maj. GEORGE GIBBONS – Son of Mr. and Mrs. J. E. Gibbons of Williamsport, TN and husband of Vera Smith. He entered the Army in 1942 and trained at Ft. Sam Houston, Texas, He served in India and was discharged in 1946. (Dr. George Gibbons and Vera would make their home in Jonesboro, where he would serve the community as a primary care physician until his retirement)

T/4 ROBERT THOMAS – Son of Tempie Johnson of Colfax and husband of Louise Moore. He entered the army in 1942 and trained at Ft. Jackson, S. C. Served in CBI Theater and was awarded GC Medal and discharged in 1946.

Pfc FLOYD SMITH -Son of Mr. and Mrs. Allen Floyd of Jonesboro and attended Jonesboro Colored High School. He entered the Army in 1941 and trained at Ft. Belvoir, Va. He served in China, Burma, and India. Was awarded two Battle Stars and a BRONZE STAR and discharged in 1945.

Want to show your support for Quitman High School and protect yourself when you go out in public at the same time? Then take advantage of the offer provided by softball and track team to order face masks that have the school name and mascot on it.

There are three styles to choose from and each costs $10.00. To place an order, simply contact Coach Justin Durbin or Coach Kyle Leach at Quitman High School or reach out to Coach Justin Dobson on his Facebook page. The masks will be available for pick up by the end of August.

The Jackson Parish Journal is pleased to add a new Classifieds section where you can post items for sale, offer job opportunities, professional services, etc… 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” – An in-depth, year by year review of each season that includes names of players from virtually every year and individual/school records. Cost is $25.00 per copy plus $3.00 shipping and handling. To place your order, call 318-480-1206.

Help wanted:

HODGE BANK AND TRUST COMPANY IS HIRING!!  BOTH EXPERIENCED AND ENTRY LEVEL POSITIONS AVAILABLE. SALARY, BENEFITS AND GREAT HOURS.  PLEASE CALL 318-259-7362 FOR AN APPOINTMENT.

Organizations:

Boy Scouts of America – For boys in 6^th grade through 18 years old. For more information contact: Dawn Slezak at (713) 824-1772.

Cub Scouts of America – For boys and girls in Kindergarten through the 5^th grade. For more information contact: Dawn Slezak at (713) 824 – 1772.

Services offered:

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

A1 Honey Do, LLC – Boat house, deck building and repairs. A Limited Liability Corporation (LLC). For estimates contact Mark Droesser, Owner at 318-366-7598 “We do what your honey can’t do”.

 

Public Notices:

Jackson Parish Recreation District Board Meeting Minutes

July 20, 2020

Jonesboro, Louisiana

The Jackson Parish Recreation District met in regular session on Monday, July 20, 2020 at 12:00 noon in the Dr. Charles H. Garrett Community Center, 182 Industrial Drive, Jonesboro, Louisiana. Members Present: Mr. Brent Barnett, Mr. Ricky Cash, Mr. Brandon Lamkin, Mr. Rodney Potts, Mr. Sullivan Stevens and Mr. Chris Womack. Absent: Mr. Jeff Hairston.

The President, Mr. Barnett, called the meeting to order. The invocation was given by Mr. Cash and Mr. Barnett led the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance.

Mr. Barnett opened the floor for public comments. Mr. Fred Tolar commented that 8-10 golf courses have closed due to the cost to maintain them and the outdoor pavilion would get a lot more usage and make more money than the golf course. Mr. Barnett moved on to the next item on the agenda.

Motion Mr. Cash seconded Mr. Womack to approve minutes and financials (June). All in favor. Motion carried.

Mr. Nathan Crace, Watermark Golf, presented his findings for the golf course renovation program.

Motion Mr. Barnett seconded Mr. Potts to reject all bids for the LWCF tennis courts. All in favor. Motion carried.

Motion Mr. Womack seconded Mr. Cash to table concession stand proposal until next board meeting. All in favor. Motion carried.

Mr. Paul Riley, engineer, discussed with the board plans to construct an outdoor pavilion. The budget would include $278,000 from the State and $250,000-$400,000 from the Police Jury, both amounts to be verified. Depending on the Police Jury match, the Recreation District would have to borrow or match with cash between $1.872 to $1.722 million in order to construct entire pavilion.

Motion Mr. Barnett seconded Mr. Potts to move forward with the outdoor pavilion project and give Mr. Steven Gatlin permission to talk to the State Bond Commission. All in favor. Motion carried.

Motion Mr. Cash seconded Mr. Womack to enter into a Cooperative Endeavor with the Town of Chatham for 4 trash receptacles, 4 surface mount pedestals, 4 picnic tables and concrete for pads in the amount of $8287.01. All in favor. Motion carried.

Mr. Tommy Smith gave board update on some of the ongoing programs at the sports complex including baseball/softball season and archery.

Ms. Rebecca Williams gave board update on the golf course including membership and banquet rentals.

Next board meeting is scheduled for Monday, August 17, 2020 at 12:00 noon at the Dr. Charles H. Garrett Community Center, Jonesboro.

Motion Mr. Barnett seconded Mr. Cash to adjourn meeting. All in favor. Motion carried.

WARD 3 FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT MEETING MINUTES

Chatham, La. 71226

August 3rd, 2020

The Ward 3 Fire Protection District met for its regular meeting Monday,August 3rd, 2020 @ 6:00 pm. at the Chatham Fire Station training room.

The meeting was called to order by Freddy Tolar. Opening prayer was given by Wayne Whitman.

 Roll was taken with the following member’s present: Freddy Tolar, Dwight Cooper, Wayne Whitman, and Margaret Waggoner with one absent, James Mixon. Also attending was Ward 3 Fire Chief, Danny Peel and one visitor, Eddie Waggoner.

 A motion was made by Cooper and seconded by Whitman to change agenda and add following Items under old business

#3 discuss mowers and under new business

#4 review equipment policies. All in favor.

Time for public comments was open, Eddie Waggoner asked about mowing.

The minutes from the last meeting were presented and a motion was made to accept the minutes by Waggoner and seconded by Cooper. All were in favor.

A motion was made by Whitman and seconded by Waggoner to approve financial report as presented and approve expenditures since last meeting. All were in favor.

Old business:

1. Final update on sale of truck
2. Update on Training Center grounds (road completed and considering Training Bldg. plans)
3. Discussed mower options

 New business:

1. A motion was made by Waggoner and seconded by Cooper to adopt resolution as stated to set mileage for this year at 9.99 mills and to authorize Tolar to sign resolution and affidavit. The roll was called on the adoption of resolution and it was adopted by the following votes: yeas-4, nays-0, abstained-0, absent-1.
2. Discussed mower options and will follow up on this.
3. Discussed proposed plans for new Training Building.
4. A motion was made by Waggoner and 2nd by Cooper to adopt policy that we would no longer fill swimming pools. All in favor.

Being no further business, a motion was made by Cooper and 2nd by Whitman to adjourn meeting. All were in favor. Our next regular meeting will be Monday, October 5th, 2020 @ 6 p.m. at Chatham Fire Station Training Room.

Linda Susan Wallis           August 28, 1949 – August 08, 2020
Mrs. Linda (Weeks) Wallis, age 70 of Jonesboro, LA, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, August 8, 2020. She was a graduate of Jonesboro-Hodge High School, Class of 1967. For many years she was a business owner and loved to play golf with her girlfriends. She loved big gatherings and being around people. In her later years she was a homemaker and spent most of her time cooking and watching old western movies and recently discovered Netflix. She loved her family unconditionally.

Those left to cherish her memory are her husband, Robert L. Wallis, Jr.; daughter, Susan Wallis and Robbie; stepchildren, Tonya Yarbrough, Missy Shankle and Rickey, and Kim Smith;  grandchildren, Tiffany Ables and John, Josh Graham and Haleigh, Kallie Wallis, Lauren Yarbrough, Zack Yarbrough, Kayla Donaldson, and Cole Shankle; great grandchildren, Jackson and Jayce Ables, Maddox Graham, Lakynn and Hudson McDuff, and Millie Whiteside; mother, Maxine Weeks; sister, Carla Raborn and Ronnie; niece and nephew, Chad Raborn and Derek and Kristen Foster and Steven. She was preceded in death by her father, Carl Weeks; sister, Sandy Weeks; grandson, Blake Smith.

A memorial service will be held Wednesday, August 12, 2020, at 10:00 am in the chapel at Edmonds Funeral Home with Brother Randy Dark officiating.

***Per State Guidelines COVID-19 safeguards of masks and social distancing should be observed***

Helen Griffith           September 06, 1932 – August 03, 2020
Ms. Helen Griffith, age 87 of Jonesboro, passed through the heavenly gates on Monday, August 3, 2020.  She had a strong work ethic and held a bachelor degree in English Literature.  She worked as a librarian and as legal secretary.  Ms. Helen was a strong adventurous soul.  She loved to be outdoors and enjoyed hiking and camping.  In her 50’s she treated herself to the hike of her life time by hiking the Appalachian Trail.  She began this hike in Georgia and by the second summer she ended the hike in Maine.  She is a beloved mother, grandmother, aunt and friend.

Ms. Helen is survived by her loving children, Maria Lucca, Skip Courtney (Rhonda), Courtney Eastman; 3 grandsons; a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.  She was preceded in death by her husbands, Bud Courtney, Davis Griffith; parents, George Albert and Mildred Mae (Reed) Fisher; sisters, Roberta, Betty, Millie.

Shelia Jackson          November 22, 1059 – August 3^rd 2020
Ms. Shelia Jackson, age 60 went to be with the lord on August 3^rd, 2020. Graveside services were held at the Sandhill Cemetery in Quitman, LA on Friday, August 7^th under the direction of Paradise Funeral Home in Jonesboro.

Guy Eldridge Farley                   March 24, 1923 – August 01, 2020
Guy Eldridge Farley, a native of Jackson and Lincoln parishes, passed from this life peacefully on Saturday afternoon, August 1, 2020 at the age of 97.  This great American Patriot had been declining but he was comfortable and doing well until COVID-19.  After fighting the virus with all he had, he simply closed his eyes and stopped breathing with God at his side and his daughter holding his hand.  He was able to see his last “beautiful” sunset the previous evening.

Daddy started this life as the sixth and last child of Zachary and Josie Campbell Farley on March 24, 1923 in Hodge, Louisiana.  He spent his childhood days on several North Louisiana sharecropper farms.  At the age of eight he lost his mother and was cared for by his sister for the next few years.  He quit school in the ninth grade because his father would not let him play football.  Around the age of 13 Daddy once again enjoyed a stable home life when his father married Etta Brewster.  Choosing not to sharecrop like his father he worked for the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) and Advance Paper Company (the mill).

Daddy met Mama for the first time at a party at which he was playing guitar.  Some time later they eloped and were married on August 16, 1941.  Their lives were interrupted by World War  II when he enlisted in the U.S. Navy in August 1943 to serve his country.

Radioman Third Class Farley served on the U.S.S. Barr (a destroyer escort), which was missioned to the Pacific Theater, where he experienced substantial hardship and consistent peril at sea.  He witnessed the raising of the U.S. flag over Iwo Jima, was at Okinawa and Nagasaki and was part of the liberation of American Prisoners of War in Tokyo.

After his discharge in January 1946 Daddy resumed his career at the mill.  While providing for his wife and four children Daddy earned his GED in 1962, the same year his oldest son graduated high school.  He went on to complete a correspondence course for Pulp Engineering.

Daddy retired at the age of 55 as an Assistant Superintendent.  He and Mama built a house on Lake Bistineau, by hand, where he enjoyed fishing and gardening.  They later moved to Shreveport to be closer to their children.  After Mama died in 2010 Daddy persevered on his own as long as he possibly could.  He learned to enjoy the company of the staff and residents at Summerfield Retirement Estates prior to a short stay at the Veterans Home before moving to his last residence, The Glen.

Throughout his adult life Daddy was a faithful Christian and was devoted to his family.  He served those in his community, volunteering for numerous civic and church duties.  Even on his deathbed he offered to help anyone he could, any way he could. He enjoyed getting his hands dirty and the challenge of fixing whatever needed fixing and building whatever needed building.  Daddy was never without a garden, a smile, or his sense of humor.  He enjoyed picking, whether it was a guitar, peas or with his grandkids.

“Little Guy” as he was called by his mother approached everyone and everything with endless patience.  He was loved and respected by all who knew him and will be sorely missed although we joyfully celebrate that he has added his powerful singing voice to God’s Glory Choir and is in His presence with those of his family that welcomed him there. Daddy was fond of saying, “Working on a beautiful day out there” and now he’s enjoying the most beautiful day of all.

He was preceded in death by his sweetie, Opal Farley, parents and stepmother, brother Sidney “Bud” Farley, sisters Norma Field, Maudie Ayres, Iva Norred, Mildred Lyles and son Mitchell Ray Farley. Daddy leaves behind son, Ladell Farley and wife Donna; daughter Violet Lindsey; son, Reggie Farley and wife Tommie; grandchildren, Ty Lindsey and wife Dusty, Jason Lindsey and wife Melissa, Eric Lindsey, Welcome Lindsey, Josh Farley and wife Jill, Luke Farley, Ashley Farley Coffey and husband Aaron; eleven great grandchildren; seven great-great grandchildren.  He is also survived by sisters-in-law, Velma Miller and Patsy Ray.

Funeral services were held Thursday, August 6, 2020 at McDonald Memorial Baptist Church in Jonesboro where Daddy was a long-time deacon and song leader.  Immediately after he was laid to rest next to Mama in the Garden of Memories Cemetery across the street from McDonald Church.  The Reverend Rocky Maddox, pastor of Rose Park Baptist Church in Shreveport presided with the Reverend Aaron Coffey assisting. Pallbearers wereTy Lindsey, Jason Lindsey, Eric Lindsey, Luke Farley, Eugene Lyles, Jerry Norred and Prentice Norred.

 

Marshall “Gwin”  Norman
Mr. Marshall “Gwin” Norman, age 62 of Jonesboro, passed from this world on Monday, July 27, 2020.  Mr. Gwin worked as a logger for over 40 years.  He enjoyed time spent working, camping, and fishing.  He will be best remembered for being a good ole country boy.  Mr. Gwin was many things to many people such as a father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend and he will be missed by all.

Mr. Gwin is survived by his children, Chris Norman and Aimee, Misty Norman, William Norman and Melinda, Donna Bryant and Joseph, Candy Ann Dillon and Jack, Phillip Tims; 6 grandsons; 12 granddaughters; 1 great grandson; 1 great granddaughter; 4 brothers; 2 sisters; many, many nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by a great grandson; parents, Marshall Hudson and Ima Louisa (Hogg) Norman; wives, Angella Wilson, Camille Norman; 2 brothers; 1 sister; 1 sister in law; 1 niece.

A graveside service was held at the Old Bethlehem Cemetery, near Calvin, with Reverend Freddie Shows officiating.  Burial followed under the direction of Southern-Edmonds Funeral Home.

 

It was supposed to be a once in a lifetime memory. It still willl be but for all the wrong reasons. The good news is that both of the people who were in the small plane that crashed into a wooded area just west of the Jonesboro airport will live to tell about it.

According to reports from eye witnesses and first responders on the scene, a two seat Challenger II aircraft, commonly referred to as an ultralight, lifted off from the Jonesboro airport sometime around 7:00 pm. on August 2^nd.

The plane was piloted by Jackson Parish resident Gary Morris who was taking the wife of a friend on her first flight ever, while the husband remained on the ground at the airport. Soon after liftoff and just after the plane flew over the Wallace residence on Folks Road in Jonesboro, a loud noise was heard by the homeowners who were sitting on their porch and witnessed the terrifying ordeal.

“We were sitting outside and watched the plane come over when I heard this loud POP,” said Gary Wallace. “I ran out to the yard and noticed that the pilot was trying to circle the plane back around but that he didn’t have any power. He was basically gliding.”

“I told Jeanna to call 911and I took off towards the woods where I saw the plane going down,” continued Wallace who further credited Morris with doing a great job in a deadly situation. “I don’t know how he did it but somehow, even with half a wing ripped off, he kept that plane upright. He deserves credit for handling the situation like he did. It could have been much worse.”

Emergency responders quickly arrived and both people on board were transported to the Jackson Parish Hospital and later air-lifted to LSU-Shreveport. At last report the passenger was listed in critical but non-life threatening condition, while Morris was in stable condition with mostly minor injuries.

Per the initial reports it appears the cause of the crash was due to an engine malfunction. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are investigating the crash but at present nothing new has been learned.