Republican Rick Warren has announced his candidacy for District Judge for the Second Judicial District, Division B. The district includes Jackson, Bienville, and Claiborne Parishes.     It is important to mention that there are two different judicial races within the district. Rick Warren is running for Division B against Yumeaka Washington. Darrell Avery and Walter May are running for Division A. Residents of Jackson, Bienville, and Claiborne Parish will vote for Division A and Division B.

“It would be an honor to serve as District Judge for the Second Judicial District. I have lived in either Bienville or Jackson Parish for over 50 years, the last 21 years in Jackson Parish. I have practiced throughout North Louisiana for the past 37 years and have handled any kind of legal dispute that could come before my court. I have the experience, the temperament, and the record to serve as your judge.”

Rick’s faith is integral to everything he does. He has been a member of Ebenezer Baptist Church in Weston since moving to Jackson Parish in 1999. He serves as a Deacon and Sunday School Teacher. Rick is a graduate of Castor High School, Louisiana Tech University, and LSU Paul M. Hebert Law Center. While he recognizes that judges must follow the law, and intends to do so, Rick personally is an ardent supporter of the Second Amendment and is 100% pro-life. When asked about his judicial philosophy, Rick stated that he believed a judge should follow the laws as written. He does not believe that a judge should legislate from the bench.

Rick has practiced law for 37 years and brings experience as a public defender, as well as his experience in private practice. In these 37 years Rick has handled cases relating to family law, criminal law, estate law, insurance defense, personal injury, and real estate. Rick has extensive jury trial experience. This includes sitting second chair on a death penalty case. Rick’s jury trial experience is what sets him apart. With over 20 jury trials under his belt, he is prepared to control a courtroom in the way a judge should.

Rick is a member of the Louisiana State Bar Association, the Western District of Louisiana, the Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce, the Claiborne Parish Chamber of Commerce, the National Wild Turkey Federation, and the National Rifle Association. Rick has been endorsed by LABI as well as a host of local community leaders.

Rick has been married to Candice Warren since 1978 and they have two sons: Christopher, who is an attorney and is practicing with him while also serving as a public defender, and Will, who is in 5^th grade in Weston.

Rick is candidate #75 on your ballot for Judge in the 2^nd Judicial District, Division B- Jackson, Bienville, and Claiborne parishes. Election Day is November 3 and early voting begins October 16.

By: Glynn Harris

            It all started for me about as simple as could be. When I was just a little fellow, my dad placed a little single shot .22 Winchester rifle in my hands and after a lecture and warning that this little gun was no Daisy Red Rider and could hurt or kill you if mishandled, it’s a wonder I was brave enough to carry it to the woods. But I did and actually shot a few squirrels with the .22. That little gun was extra special to me and I still have it.

            With squirrel season opening this past weekend – it kicked off Saturday October 3 – I was in the woods at daylight for the chance to relive my experiences I had with the little single shot .22, but it will remain in my gun cabinet; I packed a different firearm.

            I have several choices for squirrel hunting and on opening day, I was packing my Remington 870 pump with my full choke tube screwed in and I’ll be shooting high brass #6 shot.

            I’m sure some hunters will question my choice for opening day as they like to be more “sporting” and go with a .22. Rest assured, my later hunts will be with my .22 but on opening day, I want to be sure I have enough squirrels for a mulligan; the scattergun is more likely to bag more squirrels than the rifle.

            Later in the season, I’ll be packing my little Remington Model 597. Once I get it zeroed in, this little gun will drive tacks and is lots of fun to shoot and if I use a tree trunk or low branch for a rest, it’s deadly on a squirrel sitting still whittling an acorn or hickory nut. However, if I miss on the first shot and the little rascal takes off through the trees, all bets are off.

            Another option for hunting squirrels is one I discovered a couple of years ago. It’s a Winchester Model 1250 SS break barrel pellet rifle. Here’s what a web site for the sweet shooting little gun has to say…

            “The black composite stock of the Model 1250SS features a comfortable thumbhole grip that gives you great wrist and hand support, making this adult-sized rifle quick to mount and easy to hold on target. A bull-barrel shroud offers a clean design with no open sights. Mounting grooves accept the 3 – 9 X 32 air rifle scope (included).

“For pest control, serious target practice and even small game hunting, this break-barrel rifle delivers up to 1250 fps velocity with alloy pellets. The Winchester Model 1250SS is suitable for adults and those 16 and older with adult supervision.”

I have shot squirrels with the pellet gun and if you get him on the first shot, it works beautifully. However, the main draw-back is noise and excessive movement needed to break the barrel open to insert another pellet, snap the barrel shut and get ready for a second shot. Likely as not, the squirrel is two trees over in a hole by the time you’re locked and loaded for a second shot. Even so, this little gun is really fun to shoot and delivers plenty of knock-down power to send a squirrel to the Promised Land.

I hunt squirrels for two basic reasons. Sneaking up on a squirrel is far more challenging than sitting in a deer stand and waiting for a deer to walk by. I commend dads who deserve a pat on the back for introducing their youngsters to hunting by taking them on a few squirrel hunts before crawling into a deer stand. By coaching a youngster how to sneak, when to stop, what to look for on a squirrel hunt, they’re adding greatly to his love for hunting.

            My second reason? A young squirrel cut into quarters, dusted in seasoned flour and dropped into a skillet of hot oil or a couple of older squirrels cooked into a mulligan make for some mighty fine eating.

FISHING REPORT

BUSSEY BRAKE – Bass fishing has been fair with a few reported caught on crank baits, spinners and Rogues around structure. Bream are fair on worms and crickets. No reports on crappie or catfish. For latest information, contact the Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707.

BLACK BAYOU –  Bream and bass are fair; crappie are slow. Contact Honey Hole Tackle Shop 323-8707 for latest information.

OUACHITA RIVER – The river is rising due to the release of water from Lake D’Arbonne and few fishermen have reported in. For latest information, contact the Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707.

LAKE D’ARBONNE – The lake level is about 4 feet down with the drawdown underway. Crappie have followed the water as it falls with best fishing being in the channel on shiners or jigs. Bass are also in the deeper holes in the channel with crank baits and soft plastics picking up a few. No report on bream but channel catfish continue to bite off the banks on 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 – Crappie fishing has been good this week around the submerged tops and stumps on shiners or jigs. Some bass are being caught around the banks but they are running small to medium size. Topwaters, spinners and soft plastics are picking up a few. Stripers have been best trolling white bucktails or spoons while the bream have slowed down. No report on catfish this week. For latest information, call Tim Loftin at Kel’s Cove at 927-2264.

CANEY LAKE – Crappie fishing has been fair around the deeper tops on shiners or jigs. Some bass are schooling and hitting topwater shad imitations with a few bigger fish caught around the channel drops on soft plastics and crank baits. A few bream are being caught on worms and crickets with no report this week on catfish. 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.

LAKE POVERTY POINT – Crappie are fair on shiners or jigs. Catfishing has been good on blood bait. Bass have been fair while bream are slow. For latest reports, call Poverty Point Marina at 318-878-0101.

LAKE ST. JOHN – No report. For information, call Ken Mahoney at 318-201-3821.

LAKE YUCATAN – The water is falling and fishing has improved. Quite a few crappie have been caught on shiners or jigs. Fishing for bass and catfish are both improving with bream fishing being fair. For information, call Surplus City Landing at 318/467-2259.

LAKE BRUIN – Fishing has been basically slow with a few crappie and bream reported.. For information, contact Carlos Gray at 318/766-0075.

Compared to the last two months where bomb shell announcements regarding the recreation futures for residents in Jackson Parish the September 21^st meeting held at the Charles H. Garrett Community Center was rather tame.

There were no important votes that called for tremendous improvements on the way such as the construction on of an outdoor pavilion on the grounds of the Recreation Department complex on Hwy 4 East or the purchase of land at the golf course to allow for an additional nine holes to be built.

There was a suggestion that the fees at the golf course be raised to support the land purchase but the panel of President Brent Barnett, Ricky Cash, Jeff Hairston, Brandon Lamkin, Rodney Potts, Sullivan Stevens and Chris Womack took no action.

Jackson Parish Recreation Director Tommy Smith gave an update on some of the ongoing fall programs including fall baseball/softball, soccer, archery and the fitness trail use. Rebecca Williams also provided information about activities at the golf course that included membership numbers and banquet rentals.

Attorney Steven Gatlin was authorized to contact Weyerhaeuser Inc. about the land purchase and perform a title examination on property for the 2021 budget year and a $100,000.00 certificate of deposit was approved to be made at Peoples Bank in Chatham.

Complete minutes of meeting can be found n Classifieds section under Public Notices

Scheduled activity at the Jackson Parish Recreation Department

Flag Football – Played each Tuesday at 6:00 pm. Remaining games are on October 20^th and 27^th

Soccer – Played each Thursday at 6:00 pm. Remaining games are on October 15^th, 22^nd and 29^th

Tennis Camp – On October 17th, 21st and 31st from 9:00 – 10:00am

Scheduled activity at the Golf Course

Golf Clinic – On October 17th from 1:00 – 4:00 pm

Upcoming Registration information:

Basketball – For ages 5-14  (Boys must be age five by Aril 30^th / Girls must be age five by Dec. 31^st). Registration will run from November 2^nd – 20^th. Fee will be $50.00. A late registration will also be offered on November 23^rd – 25^th for a $60.00 fee. Season is set to run from January 9th – February 27^th.

Jr. Cheerleading – (ages 4-12) Registration will run from November 2^nd to November 20^th. Cheerleading will take place during youth basketball season.

The final stretch is a call for citizens to exercise their right to vote to make a difference in the 2020 elections.  Citizens please go register and vote.  We only have a few weeks remaining to REGISTER AND VOTE.  Early voting is already underway in several states.  News accounts show citizens standing in long lines for hours in the heat of the day waiting to cast their ballots.  They have done so even at the risk of contracting COVID 19.  These highly charged and devoted voters are to be thanked and commended for their bravery and commitment to our democracy. Their willingness to endure and suffer from tired bodies and aching feet is a demonstration of remarkable courage, strength, and commitment to their civic duties and responsibilities.  Their commitment is also a glowing testament to the distance citizens will go to cast their precious ballots and to get a glimpse and perhaps a taste of freedom and equality.  Citizens want to believe that in the final stretch, the nation will begin to move with all deliberate speed towards the fulfilment its public pronouncement cited in the preamble of the United States Constitution, and to give reverence and recognition to a national movement that is sweeping across the country, a movement calling for liberty and justice for all citizens.

Once again, we hasten to reiterate that the final stretch to the 2020 election has much to do about restoring public trust and integrity in government, restoring pride and confidence in citizens, and is about committing to a noble calling and pursuit of achieving social, racial, and economic parity and justice regardless of the color of skin, color or texture of an individual’s hair.  This election is sure to test the strength and resiliency of our democracy.  It will shake the very foundation of the nation and should stir the human heart and the soul of the nation.  Citizens will be choosing and deciding the path the nation will take for years to come if not for centuries to come.  In the process citizens should not be swayed by those who are contending that the upcoming election is rigged and there will be widespread voter fraud.  Do not fall for this rhetoric.  Know that YOUR VOTE will only COUNT when you cast a ballot.

There have been reports of so many touching and moving stories and encouraging accounts of countrymen and women standing in long voting lines for hours waiting to cast their ballots and to demonstrate the importance of fulfilling one’s civic duty and responsibility.  Many voters noted that they are willing to stand for whatever time it takes to cast a vote in this election.  They mentioned that although their feet may have become tired and achy from the long wait,. though their bodies may have grown weary from being masked for hours and from practicing social distancing, they were determined not to let any obstacles, or any barriers stop them from casting their vote in this critical election.  Many years ago as people of color were engaged in the marches, protests and demonstrations against segregation, Jim Crow laws and other oppressive tactics and measures employed to disenfranchise African American citizens, an elderly lady of color who was  walking along side Dr. King on the march from Montgomery to Selma was asked, “old lady don’t you get tired from the toil, the endless marching, the blistering and scorching heat, the elderly lady responded yes my feet are tired but my soul is rested”.

In many ways the last stretch to the 2020 election is a reflection of a profound and deeper commonality of hopes, dreams and aspirations of men and women such as Rosa Parks, Fredrick Douglas, Sojourner Truth, Medgar Evers, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Jimmie Lee Jackson, Thurgood Marshall, Civil Rights crusader Fannie Lou Hammer, Shirley Chisholm, Markus Garvey, Nelson Mandela, Congressmen Elijah Cumming and John Lewis, Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Harriet Tubman, and Viola Liuzzo the only white woman to die in the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960.

I want to  extend an invitation to the citizens of Jackson Parish and surrounding communities to attend a candidate forum sponsored by the Democratic Parish Executive Committee and the Jackson Parish Branch of the NAACP, which is to be held on Saturday, October 17th, at the Charles H. Garrett Community center located on 162 Industrial Drive. Jonesboro, Louisiana, beginning at 1: O’clock p.m. You will have an opportunity to hear from candidates running for Judgeships, District Attorney, and US Congress and Senate.  All attendees will be required to practice social distancing and wear a protective mask. I will be the moderator for the event.

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.

It is the news that local “Hog Doggers” have been waiting on. After being cancelled this past March due to the Coronavirus, the 25^th annual Uncle Earl’s Hog Dog Trials are set to begin at the Winn Parish Fairgrounds on October 14^th and last until October 18^th.

Local residents and folks from literally all over the world will be flocking to the neighboring parish to the south to watch and compete in the down home tradition and competition of hog baying. The trials, which began in 1995 is named in honor of Winnfield native Earl Long who was an avid boar hunter. What was originally attended by roughly 1200 people a quarter century ago now has more than 12,000 come to the festivities each year. 

n March of 1974, 26-year-old Ian Ball hatched a terrible plan.  He rented a white Ford Escort under the name of John Williams, a most common name, and collected four sets of handcuffs, Valium tranquilizers, a large caliber revolver pistol, a small caliber revolver pistol, spare ammunition, and a pair of gloves.  Owning firearms in England required special permits and licenses which Ian did not possess.  He prepared a rambling ransom note in which he ultimately requested £2 million in £5 bills.  The demand specified that the money was to be delivered in 400,000 £5 bills.  He demanded that the money be placed in twenty suitcases and put on a specific airplane for Switzerland.  In addition to the money, he requested that Queen Elizabeth II appear on the plane in person to sign some paperwork which he deemed necessary.  Ian was unaware that the Queen was in Indonesia on a State visit.  Ian Ball was mentally ill.

Shortly before 8 p.m. on March 20, 1974, newlyweds Mark and his wife Anne, along with Alexander, James, and Georgina, were returning to Anne’s mother’s home from a nearby movie theater.  About 200 yards from her Anne’s mother’s home, a white Ford Escort sped past them.  Suddenly, the driver of the Ford Escort slammed on the brakes and swerved the car in front of them.  Alexander had only a split second to respond.  He slammed on the brakes and brought their car to a screeching halt just inches from the Ford Escort. 

A young man with light red hair and matching beard exited the Ford Escort and walked toward their car with a pistol in each hand.  It was Ian Ball.  James exited the car under the assumption that something Alexander had done while driving had upset the driver of the Ford Escort.  James’s plan was to try to diffuse the situation.  James held his hands in front of Ian to show that he was not a threat and tried to speak with Ian.  From a distance of about six feet, Ian shot James in his right shoulder.  James, who had the proper licensing to possess and carry a gun, returned fire.  James was right-handed and the gunshot to his right shoulder weakened his grip.  His shot missed Ian.  James’s weakened grip caused his automatic pistol to jam. 

With James no longer a threat, Ian turned his attention to the occupants of the car.  He went to the rear door on the driver’s side and tried to open it.  Mark and Anne struggled to hold the door closed.  Ian ordered, “Open, or I’ll shoot!”  Georgina opened the rear passenger door and ran from the car.  James, unable to clear his jammed pistol, jumped into the car through the door Georgina had opened.  He saw Ian raise the pistol toward the window and instinctively jumped in between the gunman and Mark and Anne.  Ian fired into the car.  The bullet shattered the window and struck James in the hand.  Ian fired another shot into the car which struck James and knocked him back out of the passenger side rear door.  Alexander exited from the driving position of the car to confront Ian.  Ian shot Alexander in the chest.  Alexander fell back into the driver’s seat.  Ian turned back to the two remaining uninjured occupants of the car, Mark and Anne. 

Ian opened the rear driver’s side door, grabbed Anne’s forearm, and began pulling.  Mark grabbed her wrist and pulled in the opposite direction.  Ian was paying little attention to Mark.  He said to Anne, “Please, come out.  You’ve got to come.”  Anne replied, “Not bloody likely.”  Ian persisted but Anne was determined not to exit the car.  During Ian’s and Mark’s tug-of-war over Anne, her dress split down the back.  Rather than panicking, Anne had “a very irritating conversation” with Ian.    

Police constable Michael Hills was patrolling on foot nearby and heard the screeching tires and the gunshots.  He was the first officer on the scene.  Assuming that the quarrel was over a traffic accident, the unarmed officer approached Ian.  He touched Ian’s shoulder and Ian shot P.C. Hills in the stomach.  Before collapsing onto the pavement, P.C. Hills radioed into the station that he had been shot.

The gunshots got the attention of everyone in the area.  Ronald Russell, a 6’4” former boxer, was driving home from work when he saw Ian shoot P.C. Hills.  He pulled his vehicle to the side of the road and walked to the scene.  Meanwhile, Glenmore Martin positioned his car in front of Ian’s car to prevent him from escaping in it.  Glenmore exited the car and tried to approach Ian, but Ian aimed a pistol at him.  John McConnell, a journalist for the Daily Mail, approached and tried to reason with Ian.  John said “Don’t be silly, old boy.  Put the gun down.”  Ian shot him.  The journalist fell to the pavement.  As Ian turned his attention back to Anne, Ronald stealthily approached Ian from behind.  The former boxer punched Ian in the back of the head.  Stunned, Ian lost his grip on Anne.

Anne quickly backed out of the passenger side of the car.  Ian escaped Ronald’s grasp and ran around the car to get to Anne.  Anne quickly jumped back into the car with Mark and shut the door.  Ian struggled to open the door.  He noticed that more policemen had arrived and realized his plan had failed.  Anne watched as Ian nervously scanned the area for an escape route.  When Anne noticed that Ian had spotted a clear route away from the scene, she yelled through the window, “Go on.  Now’s your chance.”  Ian ran.  Policeman Peter Edmonds heard P.C. Hills’s radio call for help and arrived in time to see Ian fleeing the scene.  He took chase and quickly tackled Ian in what one witness called “a splendid rugby tackle.”  While searching Ian’s rented car they found the handcuffs, tranquilizers, and ransom note.  

Ian eventually pled guilty to attempted murder and kidnapping charges, and received a life sentence in a mental health facility.  Nine years later, Ian wrote a letter to a member of the British Parliament in which he claimed that the whole incident had been a hoax.  Ian also claimed that he had been framed.  Ian remains in a mental health facility.

The Queen awarded medals to the people who protected the would-be kidnap victims.  James Beaton received the George Cross, the highest award for courage.  P.C. Hills and Ronald Russell received the George Medal, the second-highest civilian award for bravery.  P.C. Edmonds, John McConnell and Alexander Callender received the Queen’s Gallantry Medals, the third-highest civilian award for bravery.  She awarded Glenmore Martin with the Queen’s Commendation for Brave Conduct.  During the ceremony, as the Queen presented Ronald Russell with the George Cross medal, she said, “This medal is from the Queen of England, the thank you is from Anne’s Mother.”  Anne, Princess Anne, is Queen Elizabeth II’s only daughter.  The Queen’s home, Buckingham Palace, was the group’s destination when Ian intervened.

Sources:

1. The Guardian (London, England), March 21, 1974, p.1.
2. Social Security Administration. “Top 5 Names in Each of the Last 100 Years.” Accessed October 2, 2020. https://www.ssa.gov/oact/babynames/top5names.html.
3. Hagen, Carrie. “The Bloody Attempt to Kidnap a British Princess.” Smithsonian Magazine. Accessed October 2, 2020. https://www.smithsonianmag.com/history/bloody-attempt-kidnap-british-princess-180950202/.

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is alerting residents of northeast Louisiana about a fake check scam after being alerted by a Jackson Parish woman who had a fake check processed through her account to a company called Song More Decisions our of Buffalo Grove, IL.

“A fake processed check went through her account,” said Jo-Ann Deal who is out of the BBB office in Monroe. “The scammers didn’t send the fake check to her but put it in her bank account.”

The local woman, who asked to remain anonymous, asked the bank to stop the transaction so thankfully she didn’t lose any money. The check is an example of how scammers are savvier as it had her name, address and account number processed into the check.

Deal furthered echoed that this is why it is so important to look at your bank account regularly. She says it is now possible a scammer can get your banking information through a data breach or through anywhere that you paid a check.

If you do get a check like this, report it to your bank immediately, the BBB and to the Attorney’s General office. If you have any questions you can contact the BBB at 318-387-4600. Your call will be answered by a recording but you will receive a call back within 24 hours.

Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Deputies have arrested David Issac McMillan of Eros on four counts of Indecent Behavior with a Juvenile. According to the arrest warrant the charges involve four different children and details lewd acts that McMillan coerced the children to perform on him when he took them into the woods to “look for deer bones.” McMillan has been booked into the Ouachita Correctional Center and is being held without bond.

Additional arrests made in in Jackson Parish from October 5^th – 11th.

1. Mattew J. Gay (Jonesboro, LA) – Expired License Plate, Expired / No MVI Sticker, No Proof of Insurance
2. Deloris Knight (Chatham, LA) – Simple Battery
3. Carlton A. Sampson (North Hodge) – BenchWarrant
4. William R. McCurdy Jr. (Eros, LA) – Warrant for failure to appear on possession of drug paraphernalia charge
5. Marcus Jackson (Jonesboro, LA) – Warrant for failure to appear on driving under suspension charge
6. Robert L. Harmon (Jonesboro, LA) – Domestic abuse battery involving strangulation
7. Kevin M. Jackson (Jonesboro, LA) – Bienville Parish Probation and Parole warrant
8. Jimmie Thompson (Saline, LA) Bondsman off bond for possession of schedule II drug (original arrest date (01/01/2020)
9. Robert Tonnang (Jonesboro, LA) – Disturbing the peace
10. Courtney Dennis (Hodge, LA) – Disturbing the peace
11. Joshua O. Edwards (Hodge, LA) – Possession of Schedule I drug
12. Lamario M Hicks (Chatham, LA) – Simple robbery / theft

The Jackson Parish Journal is pleased to offer a Classifieds section where you can make announcements, post items for sale, offer job opportunities or professional services and review public notices. 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.  

Facemasks – Show your school pride with special designed cloth facemasks for Jonesboro-Hodge, Quitman, Weston, LA Tech, Grambling, ULM, LSU and the New Orleans Saints. You can even add personal monograms. Adult and children sizes available. Only $5.00-$7.00.Call 318-475-0349

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.

 

PUBLIC NOTICES:

Jackson Parish Police Jury Business Session Minutes from October 5^th, 2020

The Jackson Parish Police Jury met in Business Session Monday, October 5, 2020 at 5:15 PM at the Dr. Charles H. Garrett Community Center, Jonesboro, Louisiana. Members present: Mr. Todd Culpepper, Mr. Lewis Chatham, Ms. Amy Magee, Mr. John McCarty, and Mr. Lynn Treadway. Absent: Ms. Tarneshala Cowans and Ms. Regina Rowe.

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

The President opened the floor for public comments.

Ms. Carol Massey, President of the Library Board stated that the Library Board had met and voted unanimously in opposition of rededicating their surplus funds to the Solid Waste Department. She stated that they were developing a 10-year plan and discussed some of the projects.

With the conclusion of public comments, the President called for the review of the 2019 Audit Exit Interview. The Secretary-Treasurer reviewed the results of the 2019 Audit and discussed the audit finding for the road program and the management notes for the financial close procedures and for the surplus balance in the Library Fund. She detailed the recommendations to clear the items.

The President called for Committee Reports.

Ms. Magee, Chairman of the Operations Committee, provided a summary of the September 23rd meeting. Ms. Magee invited Mr. Glen Kirkland, Tax Assessor, to give the Jury information and an approximate valuation on proposing a new millage for the Solid Waste Department. The Secretary-Treasurer provided the timeline for a tax election.

The Jury discussed proposing an election to the public to rededicate the surplus balance in the Library fund to the Solid Waste fund.

The Jury discussed cleaning up the Pardue Loop property and Mr. Chatham gave a report on having the State Department burn the debris to clear the land.

The Jury discussed authorizing limited overtime, as needed, for the Solid Waste grinding crew to grind and clear storm debris from the landfill.

The Jury discussed the options for purchasing the property adjacent to the landfill to increase the landfill capacity.

The Jury discussed the need for a larger boom truck for the Solid Waste department. Ms. Magee stated that there was a possibility to get grant funding for the equipment since it was needed during the storm recovery.

The Jury reviewed the Committee recommendations for Bob Watkins, Bryant, Fails, Folks, Go Thru, Into, Palmer, Preacher Martin, Thunder, and Womack-Otwell Roads. No changes were made to the recommendations.

Mr. Culpepper, Chairman of the Finance Committee, provided a summary of the September 24 th meeting.

The Jury discussed the monthly financials, the Weather Event checklist, the Village of East Hodge request, and reviewed the budget amendments.

Ms. Magee gave a summary of the meeting with Mayor Mims that the Committee had requested.

The Committee reviewed the estimates for the Coroner’s office a/c unit.

The Secretary-Treasurer reviewed the recommended budget amendments.

The President reviewed the assignments of the Policy & Personnel, Veteran’s, Project, Economic Development, and Parish Cleanup Committees. Mr. Chatham stated that the Veteran’s Committee had not met in October. Ms. Magee notified the Jury that the Project Committee would meet on Wednesday, October 7th

With the conclusion of Committee Reports, the President moved on to Continued Business.

The Jury reviewed the status of committee assignments.

The Jury reviewed the nominees and actions needed for parish board appointments.

The President moved to New Business.

The Jury reviewed the Subdivision Ordinance. Mr. Culpepper gave a summary on an issue with the ordinance. The Jury asked Mr. Paul Riley to review the issue and present it to the Operations Committee.

The President opened the floor for discussion of other topics.

The Jury reviewed the Proclamation to be presented at the Regular Meeting.

The President opened the floor for announcements and notifications.

Motion Mr. Culpepper, seconded Mr. Chatham to adjourn. Motion carried.

Jackson Parish Police Jury Project Committee Meeting Minutes

October 7, 2020

The Project Committee met Wednesday, October 7, 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, Hospital COO Jason Thomas, and Parish Engineer Paul Riley.

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

There were no public comments.

The Committee reviewed the letter of acceptance from Mr. Simmons for the offer to purchase 9.9 acres behind the Jackson Parish Hospital at the appraised value of $44,550 and all closing costs, including, but not limited to costs of preparation of the deed, Act of Partial Release to be executed by the lender, Iberia Bank, and recording costs.

The Committee reviewed the Hospital Boards intention to bare half of the cost of the appraised value. Mr. Riley stated that they would need to get an updated survey and description of the property. Motion Mr. Culpepper, seconded Ms. Magee to recommend the Jury purchase the land at the appraised value, authorize acquiring a new survey and description of the property, and authorize the President to execute a Cooperative Endeavor Agreement with the Jackson Parish Hospital to split the cost of the land. Motion carried.

The Committee discussed the final plans for the new building on Industrial Drive. They discussed names for the building and meeting rooms, department relocations, security, and additional uses for the building.

Mr. Culpepper proposed naming the Jury Meeting Room the “Nathanial Zeno Meeting Room”.

Ms. Magee proposed building a fenced area for storage for OEP equipment.

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

 

Jackson Parish Recreation District Board Meeting Minutes

September 21, 2020

The Jackson Parish Recreation District met in regular session on Monday, September 21, 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. Jeff Hairston, Mr. Brandon Lamkin, Mr. Rodney Potts, Mr. Sullivan Stevens and Mr. Chris Womack.

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. Freddy Tolar commented on the land purchase made at the golf course at the previous board meeting and suggested going up on the fees to support the purchase. Mrs. Anita Waggoner thanked everyone for moving forward with getting the outdoor pavilion. Mr. Barnett moved on to the next item on the agenda.

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

Mr. Tommy Smith gave board update on some of the ongoing programs at the sports complex including Fall baseball/softball, flag football, soccer, archery and the fitness trail. He also gave the board an update on the storm damages.

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

Motion Mr. Hairston seconded Mr. Womack to authorize Steven Gatlin, attorney, to contact Weyerhaeuser about land purchase and perform title examination on property for 2021 budget year. Motion carried with a vote of 6 years and 1 nay.

Under old business, the board discussed money the Police Jury and State may have to help with the construction of the outdoor pavilion.

Motion Mr. Barnett seconded Mr. Lamkin to approve $100,000 Certificate of Deposit at Peoples Bank in Chatham. All in favor. Motion carried.

Next board meeting is scheduled for Monday, October 19, 2020 at 12:00 noon at the Dr. Charles H. Garrett Community Center, Jonesboro.

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

Due to the expected weather conditions resulting from Hurricane Delta passing through North Louisiana this Friday evening the football game between JHHS and Loyola College Prep has been cancelled.

“I hate we had to do this but in the best interest of being safe we felt we had no other choice than to cancel the game,” said JH head coach Terrance Blankenship. “We tried to get the game moved to Thursday but the Loyola coach said that wasn’t possible.”

“The eye of the hurricane is expected to be passing near Jonesboro around 10:00 pm Friday night,” continued Blankenship. “That means we would have been on the road coming back from Shreveport in what could be severe and very dangerous conditions. Plus people would have had to get out in the storm to pick up their kids. It was simply to much of a risk to take.”

The contest will not be re-scheduled.

It is hard to let something that has come to be near and dear to you go by the wayside. Most folks are settled in their ways and when you have something that you enjoy you just don’t want to see it stop taking place.

A week ago Jonesboro Mayor Leslie Thompson caused quite a stir when he published a statement that the Town of Jonesboro would not be able to afford putting up the plethora of Christmas lights that the town has become noted for.

The reasoning given was sound and the explanation was understandable but that didn’t stop residents from business leaders to teenagers from voicing their opinions and offering ideas to keep the tradition going. See below for a small sampling of some of the comments and ideas that were provided.

Wilda Smith – Director of Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce: We are working very hard to see that there is Christmas lights this year in Jonesboro. As many of you may not know the chamber is not funded by federal, state or local government. Our income comes from dues, cookbook sales, Tee Shirts. We spend between 10 and $14,000 every year on the Christmas festival that is paid for by the chamber. Chamber has never had to pay anything for the lights or salaries for the town employees.

Trish Tolar – Southern Kustoms Car AutoCare Service Center:  As some of you may know, I offer screen printing at my business Heyhunner Portable Buildings and Carports! In the past I have supported communities by purchasing a “town tee” with my own logo along with many other small businesses in town. This year I would like to print my own town tees with the proceeds going towards the Christmas lights. This would keep 100% of the business and profits right here in town. Would anyone be interested in purchasing a tee or having their business name on the tee?

Johnny Ray Horton – President of Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce:  In times past we have all enjoyed the Christmas lights in Jonesboro, Hodge and surrounding areas in Jackson Parish. People from all areas of the parish would decorate their homes and businesses with lights and ornaments.

Well, all of us have grown up now and most of the ones who have decorated in the past have either passed away or have grown too old to continue the tradition. Now is the time for the younger generation to step up!

 It would be wonderful if we could create a trail of lights across Jackson Parish like from Clay to Jonesboro, to Weston and Chatham.  This would require that everyone join in and do their part.  I know that everyone has been dismayed by recent events but if we come together we can make Christmas in Jackson Parish bigger and better than it has ever been.

If you would like to join in please let me know. As Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce President this year I am committed to building up the Parish and it’s businesses. Please join me and many others in making this happen.

Obviously there were many more comments and ideas that have been shared. Have you got a good thought on how to help save our “Christmas In Wonderland” tradition? Feel free to comment here.

The bitter taste that was in JHHS head coach Terrance Blankenship’s mouth from the news he received two days prior to last Friday’s season opener was replaced by the sweet taste of victory following the Tigers 37-8 victory over Delta Charter.

“When life deals you a lemon, you have to make lemonade” said Blankenship now entering his 8^th year at the helm. “We always use the saying – NEXT MAN UP – but in this case it was next CLASS up.”

What Blankenship was referring to was that on the Wednesday prior to the contest he got the unbelievable news that five of his players, all starter and all seniors, had been exposed to the Coronavirus and would have to be quarantined for 10 days.

Just like that he team that was expected to have eight seniors on the field, with almost all of them expected to be playing both ways, was down to only three seniors and minus virtually the entire starting offensive and defensive line. Forced to miss the contest was Chase Bryant, Skylar Levingston, Phillip Beard, Cornelius Boston and Quiyontae Henderson. 

Slow start! With a front line now consisting of Freshmen and Sophomores who just two days before had no dreams of being on the field the Tiger coaching staff knew they had to get the replacements up to speed quickly.

“We coached them hard early on,” said Blankenship laughingly following the contest. “We didn’t have a choice. We had to get them adjusted quickly. They knew what they were supposed to do but it is entirely different from doing it in practice to having to do it in your first live game.”

The result of the early action went as expected as the offense found no running room or time to pass and Delta Charter running backs constantly got to the second level of the defense.  The Tigers managed to hold fast though by holding Delta Charter on downs in the red zone and a tremendous over the shoulder interception by Junior JaMarriyea Lewis that thwarted another scoring opportunity.  Delta Charter did take a 2-0 lead on J-H, who at their own 12 yard line had a snap on a punt attempt sail over the head of the punter and bounce  through the end zone.

Making adjustments! It looked even bleaker after the Tigers first possession of the second quarter saw them go three and out followed by a six yard punt that gave Delta Charter the ball on the J-H 40 yard line. It was at this point you could start to see the “coaching up” being done by Blankenship, Carlos Hicks, Anthony Anderson, Charles Scott, Kris Cash, Justin Durbin, Robert Hunter and Ethan Roberts starting to sink in.

The adjustments the coaching staff made had an immediate positive impact. First it was the defense that held Delta Charter to a “three and out.” J-H then took over at their own 30 yard line following the punt and in just four plays the Tigers cashed in their first touchdown of the year.

Speedy junior back, Brantrel Thompson got things started by breaking outside and dashing for 20 yards. Quarterback Tydre Malone followed with another 20 yards on an impromptu scramble. Malone then hit Lewis for 16 yards followed by LaJavion Nichols powering his way 12 yards to paydirt. An attempted two point conversion was unsuccessful but the momentum was back on the Tigers side as the half ended.

Fast start! The Tigers wasted no time at all to extend their lead when Justin Calahan fielded the opening second half kickoff on the left hash at the 30 yard line, raced across the field and outran would be Storm tacklers. Malone followed by connecting with Calahan for the two point conversion giving the Tigers a 14-2 lead with just 12 second gone by in the third quarter.

The Storm coaching staff then decided to “roll the dice” by going for a fourth down at their own 40 yard line. The move backfired though as the suddenly aggressive Tiger defense stuffed the play. After two plays that found the Tigers facing a 3^rd and 17 from their own 43 yard line Malone lofted a beautiful pass down the sideline that Lewis ran under around the Delta Charter 40 yard line and tip-toed his way down the sideline to deliver a “game-ender” blow that put J-H up 22-2 following the Malone two point conversion scamper.

Building on the momentum!  To their credit Delta Charter gallantly fought back with a 10 play, 62 yard drive for a touchdown to narrow the margin to 22-8. J-H recovered the attempted onside kick at mid field though and went on a nine play drive of their own climaxed by a Malone to Calahan hook up of 14 yards to up the score to 30-8 after Thompson ran the two point attempt over.

J-H got a final score with just second left in the game when Thompson excited  Tiger fans with his incredible speed by taking what seemingly looked like a harmless handoff 52 yards to the endzone in a blink of an eye. Manuel Hernandez followed with his first extra point conversion of his young career to give the Tigers the 37-8 victory.

Game balls! Obvious choices for outstanding players of the game were JaMarryea Lewis (TD reception, INT), Justin Calahan (KO return for TD,reception for TD, 2 pt. conversion) and Brantrel Thompson (9 rushes – 103 yards, 1 TD, 1 2ptr.)on offense and LaJavion Nichols (12 tackles, 5 assists) on defense.. The not so obvious but just as important to the victory were the young linemen Aiden Price, Quirese Howard, Josh Tatum, Austin Knotts and Cartavious Waters who remarkably matured as players during the contest.

“The young linemen grew up tonight,” said Blankenship after the game.  “Sure, they made mistakes but they kept plugging. Let me tell you they were completely exhausted. A couple of them even had to have help getting their uniforms off but they gave us all they had and I am really proud of the way they fought.”

Game score and statistics:

JHHS         0       6       16     15 – 38

DCHS        2       0       6       0    –   8

Scoring:

1^st quarter:

Delta Charter – Safety when punt on snap went out back of endzone

2^nd quarter:

JHHS – LaJavion Nichols 12 yard rush (2 pt attempt no good)

3^rd quarter:

JHHS – Justin Calahan 70 yard kick-off return (Tydre Malone pass to Calahan)

JHHS – Jammariyea Lewis 57 yard pass from Malone (Malone run)

4^th quarter

Delta Charter – 4 yard run (2 pt. run – No Good)

JHHS – Calahan 9 yard pass from Malone (Brantrel Thompson run)

JHHS – Thompson 52 yard run (Manuel Hernandez PAT)

JHHS STATS

Passing:

Tydre Malone                    5/11 – 68 yards                2 TD’s, 1 INT

Rushing:       

Brantrel Thompson         6 – 103 yards                     1 TD, 2-pt conversion

Tydre Malone                    9 – 69 yards                        1 TD, 2-pt run, 2-pt pass

LaJavion Nichols               6 – 40 yards                        1 TD,

Receiving:

JaMarriyea Lewis              2 – 69 yards                        1 TD

Justin Calahan                   1 -9 yards                            1 TD

Davion McGuire               1-3 yards

Brantrel Thompson         1 – (-3)

Tackles:

LaJavion Nichols               12 Tackles           5 Assists

Javious Holden                    6 Tackles           1 interception

Davion McGuire                 5 Tackles            3 Assists

Ed’Tavious Drayton           5 Tackles            2 Tackles for loss

JaMarriyea Lewis                5 Tackles           1 interception

Xavier Atkins                        5 Tackles           2 Assists

Connor Webb                      4 Tackles            2 Assists

Javeon Andrews                 4 Tackles            2 Assists               2 Tackles for loss

Chase Leonard                    3 Tackles            3 Assists

Chance Leonard                 1 Tackle              1 Assist

DeVontea Mozee               1 Tackles            1 Assist

Cartavious Waters             1 Tackles            2 Assists

Peyton Smith                                                     2 Assists              

 

                 

 

 

 

 

What a blessing it was to have been reared and introduced to hunting by a dad who did it right. He started me at the bottom, tagging along behind him and watching how he did it.

Squirrel hunting was how it began. As a little tyke, I’d sit on a log beside him and watched how he located and downed squirrels. Later, he felt I had gained enough experience that he let me pack along a little single shot .22 as we sat together. I made some mistakes for sure, miscues like squirming when I should have been still, whispering too loud, stepping on dry leaves or a stick that popped as the squirrel we were watching skedaddled.

Eventually I was able to master to a degree the art of hunting squirrels and later was introduced to hunting ducks down in the swamp. It was only after I had gained some confidence in hunting small game that hunting deer and turkeys became my passion and success I have had I attribute to the fact that my dad started me off the right way, at the bottom.

Last week, I ran across a Face Book post by friend and fellow hunter, John Brown, Jr., former videographer for the National Wild Turkey Federation. The point of Brown’s post had to do with teaching kids to do it the right way, exactly the way I learned.

Brown was talking with a friend who is a mature and wise hunter and was telling the friend about taking his own daughter hunting with him. The friend responded, “John, do you know why hunting is so important to us? Do you know why we love it so much, why we care for the animals we pursue? It’s because when we were young and learning to hunt, we developed a strong appreciation of simply seeing a deer. We went afield countless times without hearing a single turkey gobble, much less killing one. Nothing was guaranteed. And then he added….if you want her to be a lifelong hunter and gain a true understanding of why we must love and care for the animals we hunt, make it a challenge.”

Brown added, “As I hung up the phone I began to think about my own path to becoming a hunter. The more I reflected on my life as a hunter, the more what my friend had shared took on merit. Now think back about your own path and the role those challenges played in your development as a hunter. Did you begin with small game like squirrel and rabbit, or maybe doves? I firmly believe that these small game lessons are an important factor in one’s ability to successfully move to the next level. And it’s not just about learning the skills, it’s about doing so on your own and experiencing the trial and error that firmly plants within us the knowledge needed to advance.”          

I also had Brown as guest on my radio program, Glynn Harris Outdoors on Sports Talk 99.3 and in plugging the program on Face Book, I had several comments from those reading my post that agree with how to get youngsters interested in hunting.

Some comments included one who said “As a beginner I didn’t really learn to love it until taking game was not the main focus; the scent of trees, the earth and seeing birds and animals. Some of my favorite hunts were those when I never fired a shot.” Another suggested “Stop hunting while they’re still having fun.” Another said “Make sure there is action; something to shoot. Deer hunting can be boring for kids.”         

In today’s world with a plethora of activities in which our kids have the opportunity to partake, learning to hunt or even wanting to sometimes take a back seat. If our desire is to see the sport of hunting we love continuing into the years ahead, it is imperative that we instill in our youngsters that same desire that we find so special.

In his post, Brown summed it up with an expression of just how important it is to do it the right way. “I’m afraid,” Brown concludes, “that by bypassing these critical steps in the development of a hunter, we are harming our ability to create individuals who will become lifetime hunters.”

FISHING REPORT

BUSSEY BRAKE – Bass fishing has been fair on crank baits, spinners and Rogues around tops fairly shallow. Bream are fair on worms and crickets. No reports on crappie or catfish. For latest information, contact the Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707.

BLACK BAYOU –  Bream and bass are fair; crappie are slow. Contact Honey Hole Tackle Shop 323-8707 for latest information.

OUACHITA RIVER – Best bets for crappie has been spider rigging jigs in the river lakes. The Crappie Masters tournament was won with 14 fish weighing an average of 2 pounds each, proof that the river has some big crappie. Bass are fair in the run-outs on shad imitations. For latest information, contact the Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707.

LAKE D’ARBONNE – The lake level continues to drop with the drawdown underway. Look for best crappie fishing on the flats as the fish have moved from the channels to escape too much current in the channels. Jigs and shiners are picking up some fish. Bass are in the deeper portions of the old sloughs and have been best on soft plastics including drop-shot rigs. Bream have slowed while catfishing is good on cold worms or night crawlers. For latest reports, call Anderson’s Sport Center at 368-9669 or Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707.

LAKE CLAIBORNE – The cool down accompanied by windy conditions has slowed down fishing in general. However, some crappie are still hanging out around the submerged tops in deeper water and hitting shiners or jigs. Bass fishing has been fair on a variety of lures but most of the fish are running rather small. Striper fishing has been fair trolling white bucktails or spoons. Catfishing has been fair tight-lining cold worms off the boat docks and piers. Bream are slow. For latest information, call Tim Loftin at Kel’s Cove at 927-2264.

CANEY LAKE – Bass fishing has been fair to good this week with most caught on shaky tails and jigs along the edges of the channels. Schooling activity has slowed this week. Crappie fishing is fair around the deeper tops on shiners or jigs. Catfishing has been fair tightlining cold worms. Bream are slow to fair. 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.

LAKE POVERTY POINT – Crappie are gradually starting to improve on shiners or jigs. Catfishing has been good on blood bait. Bass have been fair while bream are slow. For latest reports, call Poverty Point Marina at 318-878-0101.

LAKE ST. JOHN – Bass have been fair on topwaters early and late and soft plastics during the day. Catfishing is fair. Bream and crappie are slow. For information, call Ken Mahoney at 318-201-3821.

LAKE YUCATAN – The water is falling and fishing has improved. Catfishing has been good, bass are fair while crappie are slow to fair but some big slabs reported. For information, call Surplus City Landing at 318/467-2259.

LAKE BRUIN – Bass fishing has fair on soft plastics. Stripers are fair at night around lighted piers. For information, contact Carlos Gray at 318/766-0075.

To say that is important to vote in the November 3^rd elections goes without saying. After all this election will determine who will be elected into offices ranging from the President of the United States to who will serve as a local Justice of the Peace or Alderman.

There is another section of the ballot that is also vitally important to Louisiana residents as well and that is the seven constitutional amendments and a proposition that will be voted on. These cover key and often controversial issues such as abortion, sports betting, property value and taxes, disaster aid, budget restrictions and manufacturing exemptions for taxes.

Often times the way an amendment is worded makes it hard to understand exactly what a vote for or against means. See below for each amendment as stated and what a yea or nay vote would mean.

Amendment 1: Do you support an amendment declaring that to protect human life, a right to abortion and the funding of abortion shall not be found in the Louisiana Constitution?

1. Yea Vote: State that nothing in the Constitution protects a right to abortion
2. Nay Vote: Leave the Constitution with no specific language on abortion

Amendment 2:  Do you support an amendment to permit the presence or production of oil or gas to be included in the methodology used to determine the fair market value of an oil or gas well for the purpose of property assessment?

1. Yea Vote: Allow for a well’s oil and gas production when valuing it for property tax assessment.
2. Nay Vote: Keep the current methods of oil and gas well assessment

Amendment 3:  Do you support an amendment to allow for the use of the Budget Stabilization Fund, also known as the Rainy Day Fund, for state costs associated with a disaster declared by the federal government?

1. Yea Vote: Allow the Budget Stabilization Fund to be tapped when there is a federally declared disaster.
2. Nay Vote: Continue to restrict use of the Budget Stabilization Fund to revenue shortfalls.

Amendment 4:  Do you support an amendment to limit the growth of the expenditure limit for the state general fund and dedicated funds and to remove the calculation of its growth factor from the Constitution?

1. Yea Vote: Create a new state budget spending limit with probable slower growth.
2. Nay Vote: Continue the current method for an expenditure limit.

Amendment 5:  Do you support an amendment to authorize local governments to enter into cooperative endeavor ad valorem tax exemption agreements with new or expanding manufacturing establishments for payments in lieu of taxes?

1. Yea Vote: Provide new options for manufacturers and local governments to schedule payments instead of property taxes for industrial expansions.
2. Nay vote: Leave the current system as the only set of options for property taxes, payments or exemptions for manufacturers. 

Amendment 6:  Do you support an amendment to increase the maximum amount of income a person may receive and still qualify for the special assessment level for residential property receiving the homestead exemption?

1. Yea Vote: Allow homeowners with higher incomes to qualify for the property tax assessment freeze.
2. Nay Vote: Keep the current income threshold for property tax freezes.

Amendment 7:  Do you support an amendment to create the Louisiana Unclaimed Property Permanent Trust Fund to preserve the money that remains unclaimed by its owner or owners?

1. Yea Vote: Protect unclaimed property money in a new trust fund.
2. Nay Vote: Keep the current program that benefits the state general fund.

Proposition:  Shall sports wagering activities and operations be permitted in the parish of ______?

1. Yea Vote: Permit sports wagering in the voter’s parish.
2. Nay Vote: Forbid sports wagering in the voter’s parish.

Don’t know what to do this weekend or next? Maybe you have heard about something that is taking place but don’t know where to find any information about it. The Jackson Parish Journal is hoping this new site will be of value to you. See below for activities and events that are taking place this week or in the near future.

RESIDENTS ROCK (month of October): The Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce announces that October is national Residents Rights Month in Louisiana. Forest Haven Nursing Home invites you to get involved by showing off your artistic talents to the residents there.

Participation is simple. First find a rock that is not too big. Second paint it however you want. It can be a picture of anything you want to portray or provide some kind of inspirational meaning. Once finished drop it off at a designated box located at the front door of the facility. They will then be given to residents in an effort to brighten their day and rooms.

Concerts in the Park (October 8^th, 15^th, 22^nd) : The Jackson Parish Tourism  Committee and Jackson Parish Library invites you to come and enjoy good fellowship and music each Wednesday evening throughout the month of October at Veteran’s Park in downtown Jonesboro.  Come one and all as there no admission fee charged.

1. October 8^th – rock/blues/soul singer Josh Love will perform from 5:30- 7:00 pm.
2. October 15^th – folk/soft rock singer Jon Sorenson will provide his “coffeehouse sound.” Also that evening is the Jackson Parish Art Contest Awards Ceremony.
3. October 22^nd – 1940’s/big band and patriotic songs will be the theme sung by the Belles at 5:30-6:30 pm.

CAMP MEETING (October 19-22): Full Gospel Temple located on 773 Walker Road in Jonesboro announces the 2020 Camp Meeting will begin on Monday, October 19^th and run until Thursday, October 22^nd. Each day will at 10:00 am and again at 7:00 pm inspirational services will be taking place led by several dynamic speakers. Youth services will be held that Tuesday thru Thursday at 5:30 pm. For more information please contact Pastor Joel Sneed at 318-237-1583.   

Fall Decorating Contest: (Month of October)The Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce that the following businesses have entered the Fall decorating contest: Grits and  Grace, Serendipity, Sunrise and Company, Forest Haven, Jackson Parish Bank, Driving done right, Kay’s design and Protective Insurance.

Participants are reminded to please keep in mind that decorations should be in your window or door entering your business. Winners will be announced on Halloween Day, October 31^st.

Part II of a II Part Series

For citizens of color this election could well mean the death nail in the coffin, especially in view of the fact that federal courts are now being stacked with young, ultra conservative, Republican judges and justices who will sit on the bench for the next thirty or forty years.  These conservative judges and justices (some who are unqualified and have little or no experience) are predicted to move quickly and with vengeance to overturn or weaken the existence of national liberal policies and ultimately overturn the Affordable Health Care Act, the case of Roe V Wade, overturning gay and lesbian marriages, deciding in favor of striking down the 1965 Voting Rights Act as being unconstitutional and no longer needed and are eager to  uphold white supremacy views and philosophy .

 The successful appointment of a new justice to replace Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg will create a conservative majority on the United States Supreme Court.  Whomever is appointed is expected to repay the favor of having been selected and appointed by the president by rubber stamping and doing the president’s bidding, as has been done by the people’s Attorney General Bill Barr.  These new federal bench appointees will in all probability waste no time in moving swiftly to uphold state’s requests to limit voter participation, uphold the government’s goal to outlaw a free press, ruling favorably on state’s requests to limit expansions of Federal Medicare and Medicaid programs, addressing issues regarding lack of fair and affordable housing opportunities embedded throughout our society as well as gentrification of communities across America, the notion of scaling back Social Security benefits, outlawing affirmative action programs and granting more powers to the executive branch of government should president Trump be re-elected.

Stacking the Federal courts with young, white, aggressive, conservative judges is indicative of President Trump’s goal to seal the fate of his non supporters and reward his supporters.  The Trump administration has taken a page from the playbook of the late former President Richard Nixon.  Nixon defined Politics as “rewarding your friends and punishing the hell out of your enemies.”  Over the last four years President Trump is credited with having appointed more Federal Judges and Justices than any President other than former President Jimmy Carter. Research data show that President Trump with the aid of Senate Majority leader and fellow Republican Mitch McConnel has made 198 appointments to federal benches across the nation. Of this record- speed breaking number of appointments, (198 being appointed), there has not been one African Amerian appointed under the Trump Administration.

Judges and justices who sit on the United States Supreme court and on lower subordinate federal courts speak and rule on important matters affecting the entire nation, matters regarding job discrimination within corporate America, racial injustice and inequality across the land,  disparities in our educational and health care systems, voter’s rights and voter suppression by states, women’s rights and who and how many citizens will sit in trial court jury boxes to name a few.  They will have the final say about the nation’s important business affairs, its social, economic, and political agenda.  It is believed and felt by many political commentators that these judges and justices (who are appointed for life) will play to the politics of reshaping America’s future, rather than being concerned about what is the just, fair and honorable thing to do. Consequently, the playing field of justice will never be leveled.

Thoughts concerning the outcome of the 2002 election have given writers, legal scholars and pundits much to think and write about.  The stakes are high, and reporters and writers must continue to cover as many aspects concerning this election as possible.  I will continue to write about the 2020 election because there is a need for the public to be kept abreast as to what is going on, the public needs to hear both sides of the story.  Having worked in the field of  Criminal Justice and consumer advocacy for much of my professional life and having been subjected to a life of fending for  poor and disadvantaged citizens across the nation, I have witnessed firsthand the cruelty and unfair treatment visited upon citizens who were barely hanging to the last rung of the social and economic ladders.  These experiences have provided me and other troopers with a unique perspective, a frontline view, and have compelled us to become advocates, trench men,  servants of the people, soldiers for justice, racial equality and fairness, and to become a small, faint voice for those who have no one to speak for them.  Our work has been and continues to be about the fulfilment of justice in America.

We learned very early in the struggles for Civil Rights and social justice that complacency is not an option.  Why?  Because the call of justice is an upward and lofty call that requires one to never give up or give in.  It requires one to be persistent, keep praying, keep hoping, keep knocking, keep protesting, and keep beating on the doors of justice and equality until they are opened for all citizens.  Advocates for social justice must never choose to become spectators during an election and opt to sit on the sideline while the game of life is being played down on the field by a team of questionable and unsavory politicians.  What is important and needed most at this juncture is for citizens to get in the game, mobilize, REGISTER and VOTE and do so as if their lives depended upon it.  Believe beyond a shadow of a doubt that YOUR vote will count and that by voting, you will have made a difference in the outcome of the 2020 Presidential Election.

Remember that you are not only voting for your personal and family freedom, you are voting for freedom and justice from a nation that has oppressed a race of people (African Americans) for centuries.  You are voting for quality health care for all citizens, for economic and racial justice, for a stand against police brutality in communities of color, against white supremacy, voting against voter suppression, and above all you are voting for a just and free society where all men and women are treated fairly.  This is what is at stake in the 2020 elections!!  

Every waking hour of the day, citizens and advocates must pursue the call of justice and equality and do so with a resolve never to turn back, to stop or turn around.  Someone once reminded me that “justice will not arrive like a lightning bolt, but with persistence and resolve it will occur, all the days of our lives we must pursue justice”.   

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.

It was going to be a hard enough game as it was. After all the Tigers were facing the team that beat them 41-0 last year at home and then Loyola College Prep was considered a young team. Now the Flyers boast 20 seniors and are coming off a 45-0 shellacking of Magnolia School of Excellence. To make matters worse the Tigers will be once again playing without their normal starting offense/defensive line.

“Without a doubt we have our work cut out for us,” said JHHS head coach Terrance Blankenship. “We are going in less than full strength to the home of the team that won district 1-3A last year and have over 30 lettermen returning.”

Despite what looks like incredibly long odds against coming home with a victory Blankenship remained optimistic about the contest that pits the two teams that both won their season opener.

“Our guys have one thing going for them and that is they remember what happened last year” said Blankenship. “Also we may be down in numbers up front for the game but we still have all our playmakers. We aren’t going to just show up. We are going to win the game.”

The Flyers are led by versatile junior Jacob Lafitte who returns for a second campaign since taking over quarterbacking duties last year.  Rugged running back Wes Barlow, who also doubles as middle linebacker returns as well.

The Tigers will counter with returning quarterback Tydre Malone, fresh off a 2 touchdown performance and several gamebreakers in Jammariyea Lewis and Justin Calahan out wide and running backs LaJavion Nichols and Brantrel Thompson.

Keys to victory:
1.  Be strong upfront! It is asking a tall task but the youthful line is going to have to at least play to a standstill up front. If they get gashed like they did early in the Delta Charter contest the game will be over before it even gets started.

2. Get off to a good start! It is imperative that the Tigers start the game well. A few miscues early and it will be a long night.
3. Quick strike capability! Chances are JHHS isn’t going to be able to grind out a long drive. As result the Tigers must be able to demonstrate quick strike ability.
4. Stay away from injury! The Tigers are already thin going in. If certain playmakers get hurt it will be hard to overcome.
5. Don’t quit! Chances are the Tigers are going to get behind at some point. It is imperative they don’t give up and keep fighting.

Prediction:

Last week I predicted the Tigers to get off to a quick start and win 48-16. The Tigers did win by a 37-9 score but it wasn’t from a quick start but by finishing strong.

This week I would love to be able to pick JHHS to win but with them being so shorthanded it would be only a choice from the heart. I hope the Tigers pull off a shocker but the good money says……

Loyola 35     JHHS 16 

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Throughout this month the Jackson Parish Hospital is providing important information about breast cancer, including lifestyle related risk factors and how to get treatment and/or support.

Whether you or a loved one are worried about developing breast cancer, have just been diagnosed, are going through breast cancer treatment, or are trying to stay well after treatment this detailed information can help you find the answers you need. If you have any questions or concerns please contact the Jackson Parish Hospital at 318-259-4435.

This week we look at Lifestyle-related Breast Cancer Risk Factors

A risk factor is anything that increases your chances of getting a disease, such as breast cancer. But having a risk factor, or even many, does not mean that you are sure to get the disease.  Certain breast cancer risk factors are related to personal behaviors, such as diet and exercise. Other lifestyle-related risk factors include decisions about having children and taking medicines that contain hormones.

Drinking alcohol

Drinking alcohol is clearly linked to an increased risk of breast cancer. The risk increases with the amount of alcohol consumed. Women who have 1 alcoholic drink a day have a small (about 7% to 10%) increase in risk compared with non-drinkers, while women who have 2 to 3 drinks a day have about a 20% higher risk than non-drinkers. Alcohol is linked to an increased risk of other types of cancer, too. It is best not to drink alcohol. For women who do drink, they should have no more than 1 drink a day.

Being overweight or obese

Being overweight or obese after menopause increases breast cancer risk. Before menopause your ovaries make most of your estrogen, and fat tissue makes only a small part of the total amount. After menopause (when the ovaries stop making estrogen), most of a woman’s estrogen comes from fat tissue. Having more fat tissue after menopause can raise estrogen levels and increase your chance of getting breast cancer. Also, women who are overweight tend to have higher blood insulin levels. Higher insulin levels have been linked to some cancers, including breast cancer.

Still, the link between weight and breast cancer risk is complex. For instance, the risk of breast cancer after menopause is higher for women who gained weight as an adult, but the risk before menopause is actually lower in women who are obese. The reasons for this aren’t exactly clear.

Weight might also have different effects on different types of breast cancer. For example, being overweight after menopause is more strongly linked with an increased risk of hormone receptor-positive breast cancer, whereas some research suggests that being overweight before menopause might increase your risk of the less common triple-negative breast cancer. The American Cancer Society recommends you stay at a healthy weight throughout your life and avoid excess weight gain by balancing your food intake with physical activity.

Not being physically active

Evidence is growing that regular physical activity reduces breast cancer risk, especially in women past menopause. The main question is how much activity is needed. Some studies have found that even as little as a couple of hours a week might be helpful, although more seems to be better.

Exactly how physical activity might reduce breast cancer risk isn’t clear, but it may be due to its effects on body weight, inflammation, hormones, and energy balance. The American Cancer Society recommends that adults get 150 to 300 minutes of moderate intensity or 75 to 150 minutes of vigorous intensity activity each week (or a combination of these). Getting to or going over the upper limit of 300 minutes is ideal.

Not having children

Women who have not had children or who had their first child after age 30 have a slightly higher breast cancer risk overall. Having many pregnancies and becoming pregnant at an early age reduces breast cancer risk.

Still, the effect of pregnancy on breast cancer risk is complex. For example, the risk of breast cancer is higher for about the first decade after having a child, particularly for hormone receptor-negative breast cancer (including the less common triple-negative breast cancer). The risk then becomes lower over time.

Not breastfeeding

Most studies suggest that breastfeeding may slightly lower breast cancer risk, especially if it’s continued for a year or more. But this has been hard to study, especially in countries like the United States, where breastfeeding for this long is uncommon.

The explanation for this possible effect may be that breastfeeding reduces a woman’s total number of lifetime menstrual cycles (the same as starting menstrual periods at a later age or going through early menopause).

Birth control

Some birth control methods use hormones, which might increase breast cancer risk.

Oral contraceptives: Most studies have found that women using oral contraceptives (birth control pills) have a slightly higher risk of breast cancer than women who have never used them. Once the pills are stopped, this risk seems to go back to normal within about 10 years.

Birth control shot: Depo-Provera is an injectable form of progesterone that’s given once every 3 months for birth control. Some studies have found that women currently using birth-control shots seem to have an increase in breast cancer risk, but other studies have not found an increased risk.

Birth control implants, intrauterine devices (IUDs), skin patches, vaginal rings: These forms of birth control also use hormones, which in theory could fuel breast cancer growth. Some studies have shown a link between use of hormone-releasing IUDs and breast cancer risk, but few studies have looked at the use of birth control implants, patches, and rings and breast cancer risk.

 

Hormone therapy after menopause

Hormone therapy with estrogen (often combined with progesterone) has been used for many years to help relieve symptoms of menopause and help prevent osteoporosis (thinning of the bones). This treatment goes by many names, such as post-menopausal hormone therapy (PHT), hormone replacement therapy (HRT), and menopausal hormone therapy (MHT).

There are 2 main types of hormone therapy. For women who still have a uterus (womb), doctors generally prescribe estrogen and progesterone (known as combined hormone therapy, or just HT). Progesterone is needed because estrogen alone can increase the risk of cancer of the uterus. For women who’ve had a hysterectomy (who no longer have a uterus), estrogen alone can be used. This is known as estrogen replacement therapy (ERT) or just estrogen therapy (ET).

Combined hormone therapy (HT): Use of combined hormone therapy after menopause increases the risk of breast cancer. This increase in risk is typically seen after about 4 years of use. Combined HT also increases the likelihood that the cancer may be found at a more advanced stage.

The increased risk from combined HT appears to apply mainly to current and recent users. A woman’s breast cancer risk seems to go back down within 5 years of stopping treatment.

Bioidentical hormone therapy: The word bioidentical is sometimes used to describe versions of estrogen and progesterone with the same chemical structure as those found naturally in people (as opposed to the slightly different versions found in most medicines). The use of these hormones has been marketed as a safe way to treat the symptoms of menopause. But because there aren’t many studies comparing “bioidentical” or “natural” hormones to synthetic versions of hormones, there’s no proof that they’re safer or more effective. More studies are needed to know for sure. Until then, the use of these bioidentical hormones should be considered to have the same health risks as any other type of hormone therapy.

Estrogen therapy (ET): Studies of the use of estrogen alone after menopause have had mixed results, with some finding a slightly higher risk and some finding no increase. If ET does increase the risk of breast cancer, it is not by much.

At this time there aren’t many strong reasons to use post-menopausal hormone therapy (either combined HT or ET), other than possibly for the short-term relief of menopausal symptoms. Along with the increased risk of breast cancer, combined HT also appears to increase the risk of heart disease, blood clots, and strokes. It does lower the risk of colorectal cancer and osteoporosis, but this must be weighed against the possible harms, especially since there are other ways to prevent and treat osteoporosis, and screening can sometimes prevent colon cancer. ET does not seem to increase breast cancer risk, but it does increase the risk of stroke.

The decision to use HT should be made by a woman and her doctor after weighing the possible risks and benefits (including the severity of her menopausal symptoms), and considering her other risk factors for heart disease, breast cancer, and osteoporosis. If they decide she should try HT for symptoms of menopause, it’s usually best to use it at the lowest dose that works for her and for as short a time as possible.

Breast implants

Breast implants have not been linked with an increased risk of the most common types of breast cancer. However, they have been linked to a rare type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma called breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL), which can form in the scar tissue around the implant. This lymphoma appears to happen more often in implants with textured (rough) surfaces rather than smooth surfaces. If BIA-ALCL does occur after an implant, it can show up as a lump, a collection of fluid, swelling, or pain near the implant, or as a change in a breast’s size or shape.

At about 4:30 p.m. on June 19, 1999, 51-year-old Edwin was enjoying his daily stroll along the highway near his home in Lovell, Maine.  It was a gorgeous walk under the shade of a variety of Oak and evergreen trees.  Although there was no sidewalk, Edwin felt safe as he walked along the gravel shoulder of the road.  Old stone fences stood just off of the west side of state highway 5.  An occasional break in the fences and trees offered Edwin gorgeous views of Maine’s countryside.         

41-year-old disabled former construction worker Bryan Smith and Bullet, his Rottweiler, were camping on nearby Kezar Lake.  In preparation for their camping trip, Bryan had filled his ice chest with steaks and cold drinks.  Twenty years earlier, Bryan had an accident at work which severely injured his back.  His chronic back pain was so intense that his mobility was limited and he was only able to walk with a cane.  Much to his pleasure, his work-related injury did not hinder his driving ability.  While at the campsite, Bryan got a craving for something sweet.  When he realized he had not brought any snacks, he decided to go to the nearest store to get some Mars candy bars.  He loaded Bullet into his 1985 Dodge Caravan and headed to the store.  As they drove, Bryan heard a commotion coming from behind him.  He turned and saw Bullet trying to get to the steaks in the cooler.

Edwin was walking up a short hill against traffic when he saw Bryan’s Dodge veer toward him.  There was no time for Edwin or Bryan to react.  Bryan’s van struck Edwin on his right side.  The force of the impact threw Edwin about twelve feet into the air and into the ditch near a pile of rocks.  Bryan slammed on the brakes. 

Stunned and injured from the impact, Edwin looked up and saw the back of Bryan’s van.  He noticed the back of the van was dusty and dirty.  He carefully wiped blood out of his eyes.  He glanced around and saw Bryan sitting on a nearby rock with a cane across his lap.  When Bryan noticed that Edwin was conscious, he calmly, yet somewhat cheerily, reassured him that help was on the way.  Bryan then commiserated, “Ain’t the two of us just had the [expletive] of luck?”  Edwin gave no reply.  He looked at his body and noticed that it was “wrenched half a turn to the right.”  Bryan told him that his right leg was broken in “maybe six places.”  Edwin drifted in and out of consciousness while Bryan calmly waited for emergency services to arrive. 

Edwin regained consciousness when Emergency Medical Technicians cut the jeans from his lower body.  One of the bones in Edwin’s right leg was crushed into something resembling “many marbles in a sock.”  He suffered a fractured hip and pelvis, four broken ribs, a scalp laceration, and his spine was chipped in eight places.  EMTs strapped him onto a gurney and loaded him into an ambulance.  The EMT treating Edwin told the driver “You want to really hammer it.”  The ambulance sped off and traveled at speeds nearing 100 miles per hour toward the nearest hospital.  Once at the hospital, doctors quickly made the decision to fly Edwin to a larger hospital which was better equipped to render the aid that Edwin’s injuries required.  One of the EMTs asked Edwin if he had ever flown in a helicopter before.  Edwin tried to respond but suddenly struggled to breathe.  He was only able to whisper, “Feel like I’m drowning.”  Edwin’s lung had collapsed.  EMTs inserted a breathing tube and Edwin was able to breathe again.  Edwin remembered looking out at the bright summer sky and thinking “I am actually lying in death’s doorway.”

The EMTs’ quick response saved Edwin’s life.  Doctors performed several “marathon surgical procedures” and repaired his broken body.  Ten days after the accident, Edwin was finally able to get out of the hospital bed.  He was only able to sit up for short times before the pain to his hip and pelvis was too much to endure.  Edwin’s recovery was slow and painful.  Sometime during Edwin’s recovery, his wife bought Bryan’s van for $1,600 to keep Bryan from selling pieces of the van as souvenirs.

Police learned that Bryan had several driving offenses to his discredit.  He was convicted of two speeding violations in 1988, operating under the influence in 1989, failing to produce proof insurance in 1991, two more speeding violations in 1994, and driving to endanger and failing to stop for a police officer in connection with an incident in 1998.  On September 30, 1999, a grand jury charged Bryan with aggravated assault and driving to endanger.  If convicted, Bryan would face more than 10 years in prison.

Bryan was remorseful but claimed that he was being treated unfairly.  “To be honest with you,” he told reporters, “I am very deeply sorry.”  He argued that “I’m being used as a guinea pig.  I know I hit him.  I didn’t mean to.  Somebody can’t accept that.  Why can’t they accept that it was an accident?”  Edwin was angry that Bryan was able to keep his driving privileges for three months following the collision, and argued for jail time for Bryan to keep him from driving as long as possible.  Bryan eventually pled guilty to driving to endanger and received a six-month suspended sentence.  As a condition of his plea agreement, he was banned from driving for a year.  Edwin, shocked by the lite sentence, referred to the plea agreement as “irresponsible public business.”  Edwin angrily criticized Bryan to reporters, “This guy…has the IQ of a tomato-soup can.  An empty tomato-soup can.”

In September of 2000, Bryan’s mother became concerned because none of the family had heard from Bryan in three days.  She went to Bryan’s trailer but was unable to get him to answer the door.  Bryan’s brother asked that a deputy from the Oxford County Sheriff’s Department check on Bryan.  A deputy peered through the windows and saw Bryan lying in his bed with the covers pulled up to his chest.  The deputy knocked on the window and shouted but Bryan would not respond.  The only sound from the trailer came from Bryan’s two Rottweilers, Bullet and Pistol, who barked at the deputy.  The deputy forced his way into Bryan’s trailer and an animal control officer took charge of Bullet and Pistol.  The deputy checked but found no pulse.  43-year-old Bryan was dead.  The deputy found seven different medications that Bryan had been taking for pain and depression.  There was no evidence to suspect foul play and they found no suicide note.  Three months later, the medical examiner revealed that, based on Bryan’s toxicology report, he had died of an accidental overdose of the strong painkiller Fentanyl.                           

According to his headstone, Bryan died on September 21, 2000, which was Edwin’s 53^rd birthday.  In addition, Bryan and Edwin shared the same middle name.  Edwin, the man whom Bryan hit with his van, was the middle name of horror fiction writer Stephen King.

 

Sources:

1. The Bangor Daily News, January 5, 2000, p.11.
2. The Province (Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada), June 18, 2000, p.38.
3. The Observer (London, England), September 17, 2000, P.224.
4. The Bangor Daily News, September 25, 2000, p.1.
5. The Bangor Daily News, September 27, 2000, p.14.
6. The Bangor Daily News, October 30, 2000, p.3.
7. The Bangor Daily News, December 6, 2000, p.15.
8. Find A Grave. “Bryan Edwin Smith.” Accessed September 27, 2020. https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/5083094/bryan-edwin-smith.

One more day! That is all the time that is left to help support for the Jonesboro-Hodge High School football team by ordering your Tiger T-Shirt. Athletic Director and Head Football Coach Terrance Blankenship is hoping that Tiger fans will step up to assist the team following the loss of income caused by the problems associated with the Coronavirus epidemic.

“Dealing with this epidemic has been the most trying situation we have ever had to deal with and it has severely hurt us financially,” said Blankenship. “We lost what would have been our two biggest revenue making games in Winnfield and West Ouachita when it was decided to only have an eight game schedule. Plus there have been large expenditures that we have had to incur that normally wouldn’t come into the picture.”

As result the coaching staff and players have been working hard in attempting to bridge the gap through fund raisers like the sale of the T-Shirts. As shown below the front designates this is the JHHS 2020 football season with the back having the name of each player. To place an order simply copy the form and bring it to the high school by the end of the school day Thursday.

The 46th Annual Melrose Arts and Crafts Festival will open its gates on Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 10-11. Exhibitors will display their wares beneath the gorgeous live oak trees of Melrose Plantation. Artists and crafters will showcase their original paintings, drawings, stained glass, gourmet foods, jewelry, clothing, photography, plants toys, woodworking, pottery and so much more.

The festival is sponsored by the Association for the Preservation of Historic Natchitoches (APHN) and all proceeds go directly to the preservation and conservation of Melrose Plantation, a National Historic Landmark.

Masks will be required to be worn at all times on site.

This year, the event has been modified to ensure a safe experience for visitors, vendors, and workers. Hand sanitizing stations will be erected. All vendor booths will be spaced out and the number of people on site will be carefully monitored to ensure social-distancing guidelines are met.

Tours of the plantation home, the “Big House,” will be available, with guides. Tickets for tours of the Big House are $5 and will be available for purchase on the day. Self-guided tours of the grounds and viewing of all the historic buildings are free.

Festival Hours: Saturday, October 10th: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Sunday, October 11th: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

To purchase tickets go online to http://www.melroseplantation.org/shop. Admission is $5 for adults, $2 for children ages 6-12, and children 5 and under are free!

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Below is a listing of people arrested by the Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office (JPSO), Jonesboro Police Department (JPD) and Hodge Police Department (HPD )including the charges brought against them during the dates of September 29 thru October 4^th.

1. Leonza T. Davis (Jonesboro, LA) – Possession of Schedule I drug, Speeding
2. Zjhavaelin Holmes (Jonesboro, LA) – Possession of Marijuana, Speeding, Driving under suspended license
3. Leterron Thompson (Jonesboro, LA) – Possession with intent to distribute Schedule I drug, Illegal possession of a weapon in presence of a controlled dangerous substance, Headlight violation
4. Richard Carvell III (Jonesboro, LA) – Criminal Conspiracy
5. Jimmie Thompson (Saline, LA) – Possession of Schedule I drug, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Resisting an Officer, Distribution of a Schedule II drug, Criminal Conspiracy
6. Jennifer Lowe (Jonesboro, LA) – Distribution of a Schedule II drug
7. Adam Malone (Chatham, LA) – Obscenity
8. Dustin H. Westbrook (Jonesboro, LA) – Possession of Schedule I drug, Distributing the Peace
9. Mathew J. Guy (Jonesboro, LA) – Disturbing the Peace(Public Intoxication)
10. James P. Norris (Quitman, LA) – Execution of Sentence X2
11. Leslie B. Bougous (Dodson, LA) – Possession of Schedule II drug

Over the years Jonesboro has been known for several iconic things. At one time it was listed in the Guinness Book of World Records for having the longest unbroken sidewalk in the nation. The paper mill (actually located in Hodge) also made news years ago by being home to the largest paper machine ever built.

More recently Jonesboro has laid claim to having the most Christmas lights of a town its size and the annual Christmas Wonderland in the Pines festival has drawn thousands who come to witness the incredible display of down town at night.  According to a statement issued recently by Mayor Leslie Thompson this too will be a thing of the past.

“The Town of Jonesboro has a rich tradition of lighting up the town during the Christmas season.  As we are living in unprecedented times, at some point everything goes through changes.  It is most unfortunate that the town is financially unable to support the Christmas lighting at the same level as in previous years.  No one enjoys the lights more than my family and me, but in order to keep essential city services operating; the budget is unable to sustain lighting as in previous years.” 

“We have met with the Chamber of Commerce on several occasions to suggest alternatives to the town bearing the majority cost for the lighting as in the past.  We suggested that each business would decorate their own storefront, use volunteers, or contract with someone to decorate for them.  The town would be willing to decorate the boulevard and other public spaces (along Hwy 167) which would be at a minimal cost.  In an effort to assist local businesses, the town has agreed to provide lights, which are owned by the town, to businesses which request them.”

“Putting up Christmas lights costs the Town of Jonesboro approximately $112,813 including staff time and expenses for equipment and supplies.  In return the town recoups about $6,000 from businesses paying to put up lights, and there is no real change in the amount of sales taxes during this period.  We lose money every year but have continued to foot the bill because the town was in a more financially secure position prior to 2020.”

“As always, we are willing to work with the Chamber to make things happen for the citizens of the Town of Jonesboro.  These are difficult and unusual times for everyone and no one regrets more than me that we are unable to light up the town at Christmas.  I hope and trust that as you see the numbers here, you will agree that the decision we have made to work with the Chamber to provide minimal lighting was the right decision for all of the citizens of the Town of Jonesboro.”

Thanks for your understanding in this matter.

Mayor Thompson