Jeffery R. Devlin (Polson, MT) – Possession of a stolen vehicle
Donneil D. Brown (Jonesboro, LA) – Resisting and officer x2, Remaining after being forbidden, Bench Warrant on charge of disturbing the peace.  

Weston High and Quitman High will hold classes on Monday while all Jonesboro schools will continue to have virtual classes until further notice. Jackson Parish School Superintendent David Claxton made the announcement through a written statement Sunday night that was provided to the Jackson Parish Journal along with other media outlets. In regard to bus transportation across the parish Claxton indicated that there is the possibility that some buses may run a little late due to potential safety precautions. Jonesboro schools had to remain in virtual classroom status due to the ongoing water situation in the town.

Statement submitted by Superintendent Claxton:

Students will return to school tomorrow at both Weston and Quitman. Buses will be running, but for safety reasons, may be running a little late. Please be patient. Due to water outages, Jonesboro schools will be virtual with staff reporting to complete virtual lessons and/or student packets.

Teachers will send out information to parents as to what their child needs to do to complete the assigned lessons. We will continue to monitor the water situation and will let parents know tomorrow if the students will be able to return to Jonesboro on Tuesday. Please be safe in your travels.

David Claxton, Superintendent

According to Jonesboro Mayor Leslie Thompson the boil advisory that was issued for the Town of Jonesboro this past Friday will remain in effect throughout the early part of the week with the hopes that soon the order will be able to be lifted. As a further update the Water Department reports that all leaks and bursts on the lines have been repaired and if you don’t already have full water transmission back it should be recognized in a day or two at the latest as wells across the town fill back up.

“I am pleased to report that most of the town is back on line but until further notice we are still under a boil advisory” said Thompson. “We realize that there are a few that are still without water but as soon as the wells fill up that will be resolved.”

A boil advisory is issued because the community’s water is, or could be, contaminated with germs that can make you sick. Standard recommendations on what to do usually include this advice:

1. Use bottled or boiled water for drinking and to prepare and cook food.
2. If bottled water is not available, bring water to a full rolling boil for 1 minute then allow it to cool before use.
3. Boil tap water even if it is filtered.
4. Do not use water from any appliance connected to your water line, such as ice and water from a refrigerator.

Thompson also encourages residents to provide assistance by using their water sparingly this week as the less that is used the quicker the various wells, towers and water chests across town can fill up entirely. This is important so that optimum water pressure can be attained. 

Jonesboro-Hodge will play their Class 2A opening round girls basketball playoff contest against Pine High School at 2:00pm on Sunday at Weston High. The move was forced to be made due to the lack of water at the JHHS gymnasium which was  also the reason that the contest, that was originally slated for Saturday, was pushed back a day. It will mark the second straight day that Weston High will have hosted a first round game, the first being Saturday evening, where home-standing Lady Wolves fell victim to Pitkin 63-61 in a thrilling, hard fought contest that was still in doubt as the final buzzer sounded. 

Weston falls 64-61 to late Pitkin rally 

(Saturday, February 20) The loss that ended the #15th seeded, Lady Wolves season with a 13-15 record was a bitter pill to swallow as #18 Pitkin led for only about four minutes in the entire contest and never until midway through the third quarter. . One has to look no further than to Abby Robinson’s late game heroics to find the catalyst for the Lady Tigers victory, who improves to 9-14 on the year and now moves on to play fellow district 5B rival and #2 seed Fairview this Tuesday.

Steals by Robinson on back to back Weston possessions helped give Pitkin their largest lead of the contest at 58-55 with a little over three minutes left. The long range, bombing guard who made a four trey’s on the night, including two critical trifectas in the fourth quarter then sank her final one with just 58 seconds left that gave Pitkin a 63-61 lead and put the proverbial nail in Weston’s coffin.

Were it not for Robinson’s play, who ended the night with 19 points, the story line would have been about Mallory Tolar’s  determination all game and especially her play down the stretch in an effort to see her final season at Weston continue. Early in the contest it was her three pointer that boosted Weston to a 7-0 start that led to an 11-4 first quarter advantage. Over the next two quarters she stood her ground to take three hard charges that helped keep Pitkin at bay, who started the game by missing nine of ten three pointers before making six of their last seven. Then in a span of thirty seconds Tolar, who finished with 11 points, made two free throws and a strong driving layup to give Weston a 61-60 lead with just 1:18 to go. 

Emma Kate Toms, Lakerria Austin and Briley Peterson, who scored 15, 14 and 11 points respectively to give Weston four players in double figures for one of the few times all year, also came up big for Weston. It was the crafty, ball-handling McBride that led the way early with all but three of her points in the first half on several strong drives to pace Weston to a 28-24 halftime lead. In the third quarter it was Austin, who made five of six free throws on the night, sinking four baskets early in the quarter and Peterson, whose game is way ahead of her 8th grade status, taking over late in the frame with six of her points that gave Weston what seemed like a commanding 52-46 lead with only a quarter to play.

Photos by Kristie Tolar: 

#15 Weston (13-15)	11	17	24	9	61
#18 Pitkin (9-14	4	20	22	18	64

WHS scoring: McBride 15, Austin 14, Peterson 12, Tolar 11, Hay 5, Bond 2, Trosclair 2
PHS scoring; Robinson 19, McAlister 13, Nolen 10, Perkins 9, Thompson 7, Nelson 3

Bell City to play Quitman in regional round 

The Bell City Lady Bears, seeded #13 in the Class B playoffs beat #20 Negreet 46-38 this past Saturday afternoon to earn the right to make the long trip from Lake Charles to Quitman to face the #4 seed Lady Wolverines in a contest that is tentatively set for Tuesday, February 22nd.

Bell City enters the contest with a 15-7 record and hails from district 7B which is the home #1 ranked Hathaway, #6 Lacassine and #7 Midland giving it honors as the strongest overall district in Class B. By virtue of their lofty seeding after their stellar 23-2 season, the Lady Wolverines, who were the undefeated champions of district 2B, drew a first round bye

When Quintus Ennius said  “Amicus certus in re incerta cerniturin” in the Latin language that was predominant in the 3rd century BC, he coined one of the most famous and widely used phases known to mankind. It’s meaning is that a sure friend is identified or recognized when there is a difficulty. It is translated in English as “A friend in need is a friend indeed.” Those using “modern” jargon simply say  “That is good lookin’ out.” 

However you want to say it top officials from the Jackson Parish Police Jury (JPPJ), Jonesboro Police Department (JPD) and Jonesboro Fire Department (JFD) along with volunteers from each and the Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office, provided a real life example of what the phrase means this past Saturday.

Police Jury President, Amy Magee, Jonesboro Police Department Chief, James “Spike” Harris and Assistant Chief, Ciera Murphy as well as Jonesboro Fire Chief, Brandon Brown and Assistant Chief, Aaron Blalock were all on hand to help load case after case of water into the vehicles of those suffering through the extended water outage that resulted from the brutal winter weather causing water lines to burst all over the area.

“As soon as a state of emergency was declared we immediately got it arranged through the Office of Emergency Preparedness (OEP) to have 12 pallets of water delivered to us,” said JPPJ President Magee. “We are all in the same boat. 
Being without water makes things difficult for everyone and we just wanted to help as best we can.”

JPD Chief Harris echoed the sentiments. “I know for a fact that the Water Department crews have been working round the clock to get things fixed and soon this will all just be a bad memory,” said Harris. “Until then we recognize that a lot of people are suffering and need help.”  

Perhaps the greatest sacrifice of all came from JFD Chief Brown. Not only was he using his brawn to load cases of water into the cars on Saturday but was doing so after virtually having no sleep over the several days before while assisting his parents who both were injured when their back porch caved in from the weight of the snow and ice. 

In times of crisis like this it is common for public officials to give statements about what is being done to rectify a situation. It is rare indeed though that those in “high places” actually put their boots on and physically do something to help. That is what you call leading by example!

The Jackson Parish Journal is pleased to announce the Student Athlete of the Week for Jonesboro-Hodge, Quitman and Weston High School. The award is sponsored by the Jackson Parish Hospital. Weekly winners are selected by select faculty members at each school from the student athletes who have demonstrated outstanding academic and athletic achievement. This week’s winners are Emma Carter from Quitman High, Davis Tolar from Weston High and Connor Webb from Jonesboro-Hodge.  

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Emma is a sophomore on the Quitman High School varsity girls basketball team and the daughter of Billy Carter of Quitman and Jennifer Giddens of Ruston. Davis, who is a junior at Weston, is the son of Nick and Jennifer Tolar and plays both basketball and baseball. Connor is a senior baseball player at Jonesboro-Hodge and is the son of Russ and Emily Webb of Quitman. Congratulations Emma, Davis and Connor! You are the Student Athlete of the Week! 

The once in a generation event that took place twice in less than a month will forever be indelibly etched in the minds of Jackson Parish residents along with everyone in north Louisiana. It was a time when a rare type of fun and enjoyment was had by all. It was also a time that proved that amidst the beauty and wonder of nature lurks danger and damage as well.

Thanks to the advent of social media many images of the past week were captured and shared through various outlets and websites. Many were funny, heart warming and even awe-inspiring. Others that depicted the widespread amount of damage  left behind were very scary to see but at the same time left a feeling of thankfulness that the trail of danger and destructions, wasn’t worse. Below is a small pictorial review of just some silly and scary shots of sights seen in Jackson Parish and other nearby areas during the past seven days that will forever be remembered as the “February Freeze.”

 

“Started at the bottom now were here”….” Started at the bottom now my whole teams here”
If  the #1 hit song that “Drake” introduced in 2013 would have been recorded during the 1950-51 Jonesboro-Hodge High School basketball season, it no doubt would have been the Tigers theme song. Heck, some might have even have tried to make the stretch that it was written about them. One thing for sure, the lyrics certainly describes the rebirth of the Jonesboro-Hodge High School basketball program that culminated in Tigers first ever state championship.

There are several reasons that it is apropos to remember at this time the 1950-51 JHHS team and the season that will be forever etched in Tiger lore. One is that on March 10th it will mark the 60th anniversary of the Tigers winning the school’s first ever basketball championship. Another is the irony that the state tournament, now affectionately dubbed as “Marsh Madness” is being played on the campus of Southeastern Louisiana University the same place where J-H won their title.
There is more. The 1950-51 team compiled the second most wins in school history and just a little over a month ago one of the better players on the team passed away and he deserves his props. Most of all, the team’s journey to the top is one of the best sports stories you would ever want to read about.

To really appreciate the title run in ’51, you first have to go back five years before. This was the first season of the rebirth of the program that had been disbanded because of World War II which had brought high school athletic competition to a screeching halt. The “founding father” of the fledgling 1946-47 boy’s, basketball program was Arnold Kilpatrick. The Eros native came to JHHS as an assistant football coach to Jack Jaggers and head basketball coach after a distinguished athletic career at Northwestern State University (NSU) where he starred in multiple sports. Not only did he provide the blueprint to restart the high school program he also helped Jonesboro Elementary School begin playing. After his first team ended the year with an 0-19 record, the only winless season in J-H boys basketball history, he knew he had to do something drastic.

Kilpatrick was what you would call a “visionary” and what he did the following year was a stroke of brilliance, albeit, not very popular with the upperclassmen on the team. Recognizing he had several talented players at the Elementary school he brought them up to play varsity ball thinking that it was best to give his young players experience now so they would eventually lead the team to great heights. Another words, he wanted them to take their lumps now so soon they would be able to give them. Early in the 1947-48 season Kilpatrick began playing a unit of only underclassmen and drilled into them his philosophy of if his team could hold an opponent to less than 50 points a game they had a good chance to win. It was good thinking and still works today – 60 years later.

The first sign that his plan was beginning to take effect came midway through the 1949-50 season. At that point, the Tigers were led by three juniors: James “Flop” Shively, Troy Ford and Talmage “Frame” Robinson. Shively was a gunning guard while Ford was a dominant force in the post and Robinson was a cat quick, silky smooth forward but the team was only playing around a .500 clip. Kilpatrick decided to make another adjustment to his “growth plan” by adding sophomore guard George “Bub” Haile and freshman Travis “Dick” Ford to the starting lineup. Haile was one four brothers from Ansley who all had “basketballs in their cradles” and had developed one of the sweetest, two-handed set shots you ever wanted to see. Ford also came from a basketball family and was a defensive dynamo. His insertion joined him with his older brother (Troy) in the starting lineup where they naturally had tremendous chemistry with each other. J-H ended the year with a 25-15 record.

It all came together in the 1950-51 season that saw J-H end the regular season with a stellar 41-9 record, which was just two wins short of the previous two wins combined. This included several tremendously competitive battles with Jackson Parish rival Quitman, led by the Turner twins Felton and Elton, with each team winning their own tournament championship by beating the other.

By virtue of their stellar season, the Tigers earned the right to play for the North Louisiana Class A championship tournament held at Louisiana Tech in Ruston. They opened with a 19-14 victory over Oak Grove with “Frame” Robinson scoring all but six of J-H’s points. The final score still represents the lowest combined total of points scored in a playoff game in the “modern” history of JHHS basketball. The Tigers then went on to beat Homer 42-35 in the finals to earn the right to take the trip to their first state tournament. The Pelicans were led by future LSU football legend, Al Doggett, who was known to play “roundball” with the same aggression he showed on the gridiron. A funny sidebar to the game was the quote “Flop” Shively gave following the Tiger victory that Doggett never gave a hit on the football field as good as the one that sent him flying into the fourth row of the Tech gym.

In Hammond, the Tigers breezed past St. Paul 45-33 and Hornbeck 54-41 in the first two rounds setting up a semi-final contest against defending Class A champion Baker, who state sports writers had near unanimously expected to repeat. The contest was played to a virtual tie the whole way with neither team gaining more than a one point lead before the Tigers made a final basket to seal the 33-30 victory. In his book “Six Decades of JHHS Sports” legendary local sports writer Raymond “Doc” Jeffries wrote that it was the best game he ever saw in his seven decades of covering JHHS basketball.

That set up a state title matchup against district 2A foe, Neville who the Tigers had already beaten twice before. Neville had earned the right for the rematch by beating both Bossier and Jena, another district 2A member, in overtime. The Monroe based Tigers led 13-8 after the first period but J-H, who normally played with a conservative, slow paced style surprised Neville by coming out running and gunning in the second quarter that resulted in eleven straight points and a 23-18 lead at the half. In the second half, J-H went back to their normal, ball-control style and never looked back to win their first ever title by a decisive 50-37 margin. Shively, who scored 17 in the finals and Robinson, who scored eight on the night were named to the Class A All-State team. George “Bub” Haile, who recently passed away after a stellar playing career at Louisiana Tech before becoming one of the most respected Baptist preachers in the state, scored 11 in the game. Troy Ford added nine.

By orchestrating Kilpatrick’s “keep ‘em under 50” defensive philosophy to near perfection the Tigers never allowed more than 41 points all season. this not only led to the most Tiger wins in a season at the time and their first state title but a school record for average points per game allowed, which is still best 60 years later. The season will be remembered as the culmination of a five year journey that ended up with a title. It will also be forever known as the beginning of the most glorious three year run ever in Tiger basketball history. Stay tuned……

One advantage of the rare week of winter weather that pushed through north Louisiana was the extended time that families got to spend together at home. That is, it was an advantage for everyone but the one who was responsible for putting food on the table. While most spent the down time in leisure the person who was doing the cooking was working triple time as there was no chance of eating out or even in most cases going to pick up something and bringing it back. Meals were made at home meaning in most instances lots of time spent over an oven. 

Traina’s Bakery says it’s time to take a break from all the cooking and cleaning while still being able to have hot, homestyle meals that you can either take back to your house or eat in their comfortable dining area. Breakfast, lunch and dinner selections are available each weekday except for Wednesday and even on Sunday. Call in advance to have your order ready when you arrive or simply drop by. Don’t forget to take advantage of thee the tremendous selection of pastries and desserts that are on hand. 

DAILY LUNCH SPECIALS ($8.99)

Monday: Beef tips, rice & gravy, green beans, corn, roll, dessert
Tuesday: Hamburger steak, mashed potatoes, corn, roll, dessert
Thursday: Baked chicken breast, rice, green beans, roll, dessert or Chicken fried steak, purple hull peas, mashed potatoes, dumplings, dessert (+ $1.00)
Friday: Pork Chops, mashed potatoes, green beans, roll, dessert or Catfish fillets, fries, dessert

TOASTED SANDWICHES (Includes chips and dessert)

Traina’s Delight ($6.49) – Ham, cheese, special sauce
The Boss ($7.99) – Ham, sausage, cheese, olives, pickles, onion, special sauce
Hog Heaven ($6.99) – Ham, pepperoni, ground sausage, cheese, pizza sauce
French Cow ($6.99) – Roast, cheese, mayo, ajau gravy
Sassy Pig (6.99) – Ham, cheese, onion, jalapeno peppers, special sauce
Ham Po-Boy ($5.99)
Roast Beef Po-Boy ($5.99)
Turkey Po-Boy ($5.99)
Shrimp Po-Boy ($7.00)
Chicken Salad Sandwich – $5.99 (Half pint – $4.99, Pint – $9.99)
BBQ Sandwich – $5.99

Baskets & Plates (Includes fries and dessert)

Chicken Strip Basket – $8.99
Hamburger Basket – $7.49
Shrimp Basket -$8.99
Shrimp Po-Boy Basket – $7.99
Finger Steak Basket – $8.99
BLT Basket – $7.99
BBQ Sandwich Plate -$5.99 (includes baked beans, potato salad, dessert)
Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti – $8.99 (includes side salad, roll)

SIDES

Fried Pickles – $5.99 (1/2 order – $2.99)
Onion Rings – $5.99 (1/2 order – $2.99)
Texas Toothpicks – $5.99 (1/2 order – $2.99)
French Fries – $1.49

SOUPS, SALADS, ETC…

Chef Salad (Small – $6.99, Large – 7.99)
Taco Salad (Small – $6.99, Large – $7.99)
Grilled Chicken Salad (Small- $6.99, Large – $7.99)
Chicken Salad Explosion (Small – $6.99, Large – 8.99)
(on lettuce with cheese, pickles, sweet jalapenos, tomatoes, bacon bits, croutons)
Stuffed Potato – $7.99 (ham, cheese, sausage, butter, sour cream)

SUNDAY LUNCH  ($8.99 – $9.99)

Fried Pork Chops, dumplings, purple hull peas, mashed potatoes, roll, dessert
Fried Chicken, dumplings, purple hull peas, mashed potatoes, roll, dessert
Turkey, dressing, green beans, corn, roll, dessert
Roast, green beans, potatoes, carrots, roll, dessert
Baked Chicken, green beans, potatoes, carrots, roll, dessert
Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti, salad, roll, dessert
BBQ Sandwich, baked beans, potato salad, dessert
Meat Loaf, corn, potatoes, roll, dessert
BBQ Chicken or Ribs, baked beans, potato salad, roll, dessert
Traina’s Delight or French Cow Sandwich, dessert
Mexican Casserole (beef or chicken), salad, roll, dessert
Potato Rolls – $4.39 / dozen
Meat Rolls – $4.39 / half dozen

Open on Weekdays: 7:00am – 3:00pm
Open on Sunday: 11:00am – 1:30pm

Address: 212 6th Street, Jonesboro
Phone: 318-259-2600

Hopefully the last of the numerous bouts of winter weather has been dealt with and the springs sports calendar for area schools can begin. There will be some changes of note this season beginning with wholesale coaching changes at Jonesboro-Hodge and Weston. The Tigers and Lady Tigers will be coached by Ethan Roberts and Tracy Taylor while leading Weston will be Jacob Otwell in baseball and Kim Shows in softball. Joe Lockhart and Justin Dobson return for Quitman. 

Another change will be the site of home games at least over the early portion of the schedule. All three high schools will play both their baseball and softball games at the Jackson Parish Recreation Center located on Hwy 4 east. Players and fans alike benefit from this as the players will get to compete on top state of the art synthetic fields while fans will enjoy the tremendous the facilities. See below for the baseball and softball schedules for all three area schools during the remainder of |February. 

Contests	Date	Time
JHHS vs Cedar Creek (Baseball) – JV, V	February 22	4:00pm / 6:00pm
Quitman at St. Mary’s (Baseball)	February 22	6:00pm
JHHS vs Calvin (Softball)	February 23	4:00pm
Quitman at Beekman Charter (Softball)	February 23	5:00pm
JHHS at Red River (Softball)	February 25	5:00pm
Quitman at Loyola Prep (Softball)	February 25	4:00pm
Weston vs Castor (Softball)	February 25	4:00pm
JHHS vs Family Community (Softball)	February 26	4:00pm
JHHS vs East Beauregard (Baseball) – JV, V	February 26	4:00pm / 6:00pm
Polar Bear Softball Tournament (Quitman, Weston)	February 26 & 27	TBA

For a bass angler, this is the best time of the year to fish. The early spring and warming water temperatures bring big bass shallow in order to make babies. This is a time of year known by bass anglers as the “spawn.” It’s when bass come out of their deep water winter haunts and start the process of producing young fry (baby bass). Many an angler has laid awake at night dreaming of catching that fish of a lifetime during the months of late February, March and April. While there are some fish that live shallow year around, there’s also a group of bass that live deep all year long until Mother Nature says “go make babies.” This is when your bigger female bass pull into the shallow waters and become more susceptible to being caught while making beds and laying their eggs when conditions are right.

Now some northern states have rules that prevent anglers from fishing during the spawning season and will actually close their lakes during this time of year. This is mainly due to the fact that northern states have a much shorter growing season. It’s also a way to ensure the bass has a better opportunity to spawn without interruption or being caught and taken off the bed. But here in the south, anglers take full advantage of this opportunity by what we call “sight fishing.” Sight fishing is where an angler attempts to see and catch a bass in shallow water while it’s sitting on a bed. Now for the most part, the male bass (anglers call a buck) will come in days before the females and actually look for a place to build the nest (or bed). The females bass sit just off the first drop out in deeper water waiting for the water to warm up. Now it varies on what is the exact water temp for bass to spawn but it can range from 58 up to 65 degrees. This is what I consider stage one of three.

The second stage is where the female pulls up into the shallow water pairing up with a male and continuing to prepare the bed. But once the female commits to coming in and laying her eggs, there’s not much that will cause her to pull off the bed other than a major cold front or hard falling water. It’s truly amazing how resilient bass are and how Mother Nature herself will make sure conditions are right.

Stage three is when the female is now ready to lay her eggs. She literally starts to rock and roll from side to side while the buck bass hits her on her side in order to loosen up her eggs as she deposits them into the bed. It’s at this point the male will fertilize the eggs and the female will leave and pull out to first drop off and recover. Sometimes they will head for the nearest cover like a brush top or maybe a boat dock as they go through recovery mode. The male will hang around and protect the eggs even after they turn into fry (baby bass). This protection period by the male only lasts so long, as at some point they will actually turn against and feed on the fry themselves. So how can the fry protect themselves? Well they need good cover like brush or good thick vegetation like hydrilla (grass) where they can hide from the bigger fish which allows them to reach a size where they can fend for themselves.

Once again, I hope you learned something from all this spawning talk and I hope you have a better understanding of how Mother Nature works. The spawn really is an amazing process that keeps our lakes and rivers stock with good quantities of fish. Tune in every Monday on our Facebook page at 12:30 CST. for Tackle Talk Live as we discuss the latest news and tournament results from Toledo Bend, Sam Rayburn and other great bodies of water found right here in the Ark-La-Tex region. Until next time, don’t forget to set the hook!!! – Steve Graf

This position will join our existing IT manager with primary duties to be a subject matter expert providing many routine clinic management REPORTS and staff TRAINING & TROUBLESHOOTING on our electronic medical records system and other business systems. Besides that, this position will also provide IT support as a backup to the IT Manager and to assist in priority IT projected assigned by an executive officer. Other related technical duties as assigned. SALARY based on level of job-related experience and related qualifications. EXEMPT position that serves on emergency team. EOE. For a full set of responsibilities and qualifications contact the OMC executive office at 318-357-2071 or email info@outpatientmedical.org. EOE

 

Don Hill
October 03, 1935 – February 14, 2021

Mr. Don Hill, of Quitman, age 85, passed from this life to his eternal life Sunday, February 14, 2021, after a short illness. He is survived by his wife, Ann Hill of Quitman; daughter, Donna Mahfouz (Johnny), of Stuttgart, Arkansas; son, Russell Hill (Michelle Cunningham), of Quitman; brother, Kenny Hill (Chris) of Rowlett, Texas; grandchildren, Stephanie Prislovsky (Sam) and Derek Fischer (fiancee Jordan Elliot) of Stuttgart, Arkansas, Andrew Hill, of Quitman, and Emily Hill, of Ruston; great-grandchildren, Boone and Lane Prislovsky and Henlie Fischer, all of Stuttgart, Arkansas; nephew, Jesse Anderson, of Fort Worth, Texas; and uncle, Alex Rachal (Betty), of Monticello, Georgia; and several extended family members.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth and Elma Hill; nephew, Aaron Hill; a special brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Dewey and Ophelia Anderson; and several aunts and uncles. The family will hold a memorial service for Don to be held at a later date.

James Everett Shively
March 06, 1972 – February 13, 2021

Mr. James Everett Shively made his heavenly journey February 13, 2021. James was a loving and kind person who endured many hardships during his lifetime but maintained a positive outlook for the future. He loved his family and enjoyed spending time with them. Those left to cherish his memory are his mother, Bonnie (Porter) Hennigan & husband Shellie; brother, Arnold R. Shively; a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Arnold Estes Shively.

Visitation at Edmonds Funeral Home will be from 1:30pm ~ 2:30pm Tuesday, February 23, 2021 with graveside services to follow at 3:00pm at Antioch Cemetery near Quitman.

Mark O’Neal Hudson
July 26, 1955 – February 14, 2021

Mr. Mark O’Neal Hudson was escorted through the portals of Heaven on Sunday, February 14, 2021 following a brief illness. He was a member of Caney Lake Baptist Church and was retired from Schlumberger after 33 years of employment. He loved his family and enjoyed fishing, working in his yard, and vegetable gardening.

Mr. Hudson preceded in death by his mother Betty Mae Sims Hudson, his father Elton James Hudson and his brother Michael Elton Hudson. Those left to cherish his memory are his wife Sarah Marie Allen Hudson; his children Tod O’Neal Hudson of Purvis, Mississippi, Kelli Renee Hudson of Prentiss, Mississippi, Scottie Denise Citrano of St. Martinville, Louisiana, Sarah Nichole Lefort of Grenta, Louisiana and Joseph Allen Wolford of Des Allemands, Louisiana; grandchildren Lilli Sue Hudson, Kylie Renee Citrano, Brandon Joseph Lefort, Zoe Alexis Lefort, Connor Matthew Lefort, Phoebee Marie Wolford and Daniel Joseph Wolford; and his brother Timothy Richard Hudson of Abbeville, Louisiana.

A memorial services will be held at Caney Lake Baptist Church Sunday, February 21, 2021. Visitation with the family will begin at 10:00am and the memorial service will be held at 11:00am. In lieu of flowers the family would prefer to have donations made to St. Jude Hospital in Mark’s name.

Margaret Howard Tilley
June 26, 1934 – February 12, 2021

Margaret Howard Tilley, loving wife, mother, grandmother and friend passed away Friday, February 12, 2021 in Baton Rouge, LA at the age of 86. The daughter of the late Lillie Bea Howell and Selby Lee Howard, she was born on June 26, 1934 in Jonesboro, Louisiana. She had resided in Baton Rouge for the past three years, but the majority of her life was spent in Quitman, LA.

Upon graduation from Jonesboro- Hodge High School, she traveled to Washington, D.C. to visit family and went to work for the Quartermaster General’s Office. While in DC she continued to correspond with a young man she had been dating Charles Henry Tilley. Margaret returned to Jonesboro and she and Charles married on January 19, 1953 and settled outside of Jonesboro in the Quitman area and began their life together.

Margaret was known for lovingly spoiling Charles, her wonderful husband. Together they created the happiest of homes for themselves and their four children. Margaret possessed a kind spirit and she loved her family and friends deeply and put needs of others ahead of her own. A woman who truly knew and loved Our Lord she was active in her church and was involved in all aspects of her children’s academic and spiritual upbringing. Margaret created for her family and friends a welcoming home filled with faith, laughter, love along with generous hospitality. She was a wonderful cook and truly enjoyed welcoming guests into her home.

She worked at Edmonds Funeral Home and later as an Administrative Assistant in the Housing Department at Louisiana Tech University until she retired 1995. Margaret was an accomplished artist painting many beautiful oil paintings. Also, she was known for her beautiful French needlework, embroidery and fine sewing.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Charles Henry Tilley, her parents, Lillie Bea Howell Howard and Selby Lee Howard, her Paternal Grandparents, Ola Lee Howard Rogers and Charlie Howard and Maternal Grandparents Margaret Maddox Howell and Fred Howell. Also preceding her in death was her beloved uncle that she called “brother” Wilbur Rogers and wife Ona Vee Rogers and beloved son-in-law Carroll Davis Rich.

She is survived by four children: Carla Tilley Theriot and husband Ralph of Baton Rouge, LA, Leesa Tilley Rich of Arcadia, LA, Amy Tilley of York, South Carolina, Roger Tilley and wife Anne Nowak Tilley of Prairieville, LA. She is also survived by six grandchildren: Sage Theriot of New Orleans, LA, Morgen Theriot of New Orleans, LA, Catherine Margaret McCarley Norris and husband Blake of Golden, Colorado, Taylor Ashley “Kane” Edwards of York, South Carolina, Maya Tilley of Prairieville, LA, Benjamin Tilley of Prairieville, LA and great grandchild Charlotte Norris of Golden, Colorado.

Also left to honor her memory is her sister, Sandra Howard Morton of Youngsville, North Carolina and sister-in-law, Barbara Tilley Estes of Greenwell Springs, LA as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Special thanks to loving care givers Vicky, Carolyn, Chaz, Shannon and Alicia. Memorial graveside services for Margaret Howard Tilley will be held on February 25, 2021 at 1 PM at the Mt Olive Baptist East Cemetery in Quitman, LA.

Marie Christy
November 21, 1936 – February 16, 2021

Funeral services for Marie Baugh Christy, will be held Friday, February 26, 2021 at 11:00 AM at Kilpatrick Funeral Home West Monroe with Rev. Randy Hartwell officiating. Interment will follow at Mt. Olive Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 9:30 AM until 11:00 AM under the direction of Kilpatrick Funeral Home West Monroe. Marie was born November 21, 1936 in Eros, LA, one of seventeen children and passed away February 16, 2021 in West Monroe, LA. She was a member of Mt. Olive Baptist Church. Marie was preceded in death by her parents, Ted and Mary Baugh; brothers, Marshall Baugh, Melvin Baugh and Richard Baugh; sisters Lois Christy, Nancy Williamson, Brenda Aswell and Helen Lay.

Marie is survived by her son Gary Christy and wife Betty; grandchildren Tabitha Collins, April Rice, Jamie Christy, Rachel Marcom; great grandchildren Ashton Coughran, Courtney Rice, Katy- Lynne Coughran, Annabelle Rice and Christians Collins; siblings Lemiel Baugh, Ray Baugh, Odell Baugh, Norman Baugh; sisters Evelyn Osbon, Linette Wheelis, Debbie Baugh, Hollie Alford and Teresa Ferguson. Pallbearers will be Ashton Coughran, Cooper Collins, Kevin Rice, Tommy L. Christy, Richard Christy, Claude Williams and Tyler Christy. Honorary pallbearer will be Christian Collins.

 

(Friday, February 19th – 6:30pm) Due to the unprecedented breakage of water mains that has been experienced over the past several days a boil advisory has been issued for the Town of Jonesboro. The emergency notice was issued by Mayor Leslie Thompson in a written statement (shown below) and through a video that has been published on the Jackson Parish Journal Facebook page.

Mayor Thompson’s statement:

As of Friday, February 19th and until further notice the Town of Jonesboro is under a boil advisory. I pray that everyone is doing as well as possible in these difficult times. As you are aware we are presently experiencing some unprecedented moments in our beloved town of Jonesboro that has brought on abnormal problems with our infrastructure which has paralyzed the entire town.

We have been working around the clock in our efforts to restore water for our citizens. The Public Works team, consisting of both water and street departments, along with the Fire and Police Departments, are hard at work trying to assist the townspeople wherever possible. Never before in recent or known history have we had as many breaks of the water lines. As the Public Works team identifies a break we are immediately moving to repair it. Please know we are working diligently to restore water to the town as soon as possible.

We ask that when your water is restored that you would use it sparingly in an effort to prevent over taxing the system as it tries to build up the necessary levels to operate as it should. Your role in conservation plays an important part in maintaining an adequate water supply and we must work collectively to overcome this trying and unwelcome condition. Thank you for your consideration and patience. If you detect a break in a water main please call: 318-475-1445 to report.

Mayor Leslie Thompson

Due to the hazardous driving conditions resulting from the winter weather blast experienced in Jackson Parish this past week that are expected to linger throughout the weekend the Jackson Parish Recreation Department has postponed all Youth Basketball League games that were scheduled for Saturday, February 20th until March 6th. Games slated for February 27th will be played as scheduled. 

Results of games played on February 13th:

Pelicans 23 Lakers 10 (5 & 6 league)
Scoring: (Pelicans) Ainsley Bougues 11, Adeline Anderson 4, Jacob Toms 3, Grant Williams 1, Natalie Sullivan 1, Jaylee Hough 1, Braxton Lawson 1 (Lakers) Bentley Hall 5, Maddox Naron 2, Kylee Ann Allen 1, Braxten Theriot 1, Brantley Tucker 1

Bulls 24 Warriors 12 (5 & 6 league)
Scoring: (Bulls) Jagger Ingram 12, Koplen Taylor 6, River Waggoner 2, Maddox Graham 2, Kutter Blalock 2 (Warriors) Andrew Seymore 6, Eli Stringer 5, Hinley Hall 1

Blazers 28 Magic 22 (7 & 8 league)
Scoring: (Blazers) Samone Mallard 16, Thatcher Savage 8, Caleb Robinson 3, Cooper Roton 1 (Magic) Kash Gandy 14, Hannah Aldy 4, Kaine  Stassen 2, Karrigan Gandy 2

Hawks 24 Jazz 18 (7 & 8 league)
Scoring: (Hawks) Jase Reed 14, Bentley Ponder 9, Jase Tinsley 1 (Jazz) Caiden Jackson 5, Kynleigh Leach 4, Jaxen Culpepper 4, Ella Simonelli 3, Emerson James 2

Mystics 13 Sparks 8 (9 & 10 girls league)
Scoring: (Mystics) Kinsley Ponder 4, Klea Blalock 3, Raeleigh Medaries 2, Teyton Naron 1, Syla Malone 1, Rachel Bandy 1, Allie Fenn 1 (Sparks) Lily Duck 3, Bailey Tinsley 2, Demie McCurdy 1, Skylar Lamkin 1, Julie Ford 1

Mystics 21 Storm 19 (9 & 10 girls league)
Scoring: (Mystics) Kinsley Ponder 11, Syla Malone 4, Allie Fenn 2, Rachel Bandy 2, Maggie Wall 2 (Storm) Jalynn Jiles 9, Hallay Taylor 5, Braelyn Patton 2, Anna Pardue 1, Skyleigh Webb 1, Emma Kate Toms 1

Rockets 28 Raptors 4 (9 & 10 boys)
Scoring: (Rockets) Kobie Williams 10, Mason Thomas 8, Eli Rowe 6, Quantavious Campbell 2, Eli Henderson 1 (Raptors) Leyton Younse 4

Grizzlies 19 Kings 9 (9 & 10 boys)
Scoring: (Grizzlies) Joseph Delaney 13, Jayden Burns 3, Jake Moak 2, Tucker Wallis 1 (Kings) Hayden Seymore 4, Noah Spillman 2, Luke Sims 2, Spencer Strickland 1

Dream 17 Wings 11 (11 & 12 girls)
Scoring: (|Dream) Emma Walker 4, Ava Caskey 4, Morgan Cheatwood 2, Lanee Cheatwood 2, Breelyn Boone 2, Briley Jones 2, Sanaa Tatum 1 (Wings) Hallie Kate Pullig 4, Brenna Lamkin 2, Taylor Borland 2, Megan Walker 2, Lily Jones 1

Lakers 28 Bulls 26 (11 & 12 boys) 
Scoring: (Lakers) Asher Schultz 10, David Gandy 9, Elijah Jackson 6, Caden Jackson 2 (Bulls) Remy Kennard 9, Brayden Martin 7, Shane Reed 6, Aiden Phares 2, Gunner Fontenot 2

Warriors 36 Spurs 16 (11 & 12 boys)
Scoring (Warriors) Christopher Harrell 11, Taden Thomas 10, Brody Toms 8, Ty Henderson 5, Rylan Reynolds 2 (Spurs) Jackson Thomas 8, Brody Tidwell 5, Jackson Bougues 3

Pelicans 28 Timberwolves 24 (13 & 14 boys)
Scoring: (Pelicans) Sawyer Watkins 11, Bryce Zehr 8, Payton Nomey 7, Brock Henderson 2 (Timberwolves) Tyler Pardue 8, Jacob Gill 7, Noah Leach 4, Caden Brown 4

Timberwolves 30 Celtics 25 (13 & 14 boys)
Scoring: (Timberwolves) Jacob Gill 11, Noah Leach 6, Tyler Pardue 6, Caden Brown 3, Kace West 2, Walker Medaries 2 (Celtics) Cole Tolar 8, Larson Thomas 5, Shane Reed 2, Jude Otwell 2, Skyler Strickland 2, 

High scorers for the week:

5 & 6 boys/girls league: Jagger Ingram 12, Ainsley Bougues 11
7 & 8 boys/girls league: Samone Mallard 16, Jase Reed 14, Kash Gandy 14
9 & 10 girls league: Kinsley Ponder 11, Jalynn Jiles 9
9 & 10 boys league: Joseph Delaney 13, Kobie Williams 10
11 & 12 girls league: Hallie Kate Pullig 4, Emma Walker 4
11 & 12 boys league: Christopher Harrell 11, Asher Schultz 10, Teden Thomas 10
13 & 14 boys league: Sawyer Watkins 11, Jacob Gill 11 

According to Jonesboro Mayor, Leslie Thompson, who issued a statement to the Jackson Parish Journal at 12:05 pm on Wednesday, February 17th, officials from the Louisiana Department of Transportation (DOTD) have deemed the Hwy 167 overhead pass between Jonesboro-Hodge High School and Popeye’s Fast Food Restaurant to be safe to travel on despite what looked two cracks in the concrete panels. 

“I just spoke with the DOTD representative and he assured me the places where the joints look like they have separated on the bridge is not a safety hazard,” Thompson.  “What is currently much more dangerous to your safety is not being extremely cautious when traveling on the bridge or any overpass as they become very icy and slick in these conditions. My best recommendation is  not to get on the roads in this weather unless you simply have to.”

The bridge was temporarily closed and DOTD officials immediately called in after it was feared the overpass was unsafe for travel when it was discovered that what looked like two cracks in concrete slabs that make up the structures driving surface had materialized. Upon closer inspection it was found to simply be that two “joints”(space where the concrete slabs meet up” had lost the filler material between them most likely due to becoming brittle from the extreme cold weather.

DOTD and Jackson Parish officials remind all motorists that the Parish is currently under a winter storm warning advisory and road conditions are hazardous to be especially careful of icy conditions while traveling on any overpass or bridge.  Any further updates and information will be passed along as soon as received. 

Virtual classrooms have been integral in allowing a student to continue to keep up with studies during the COVD-19 epidemic. Now they are proving to be of worth for another reason. Due to the extended winter weather that is currently being experienced  Jackson Parish School Superintendent David Claxton issued a statement on Tuesday afternoon that system schools will not be accepting students to their physical locations for the remainder of the week but virtual classes will be taking place Wednesday – Friday. In person classes are tentatively scheduled to resume Monday, February 22nd. 

“Due to the inclement weather we are experiencing only virtual classes will be taking place throughout the week,” said Claxton in a statement issued over the Jackson Parish School District website and Facebook page. “Everyone please keep warm and stay safe. Look forward to seeing you soon.”

On the heels of a rare second blast of winter weather that descended on north Louisiana earlier in the week that left accumulations of 3-5 inches of snow and ice that is still on the ground, the National Weather Service in Shreveport has issued yet another winter storm warning that went into effect at 6:00pm on Tuesday and will run until noon on Thursday.

For the second time in less than a week and the third over the past 30 days another blast of extreme winter weather is pushing through north Louisiana bringing dangerously cold temperatures and causing extremely hazardous driving conditions. The latest storm is expected to bring accumulations ranging upwards to 2 inches of a mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain.

While the sight of snow on the ground is beautiful, conditions can also be very dangerous and even deadly as the bitter cold temperature brings with it the risk of hypothermia.  |Additional impacts felt are treacherous road conditions making travel recommended only when absolutely necessary and possible power outages due to downed limbs, trees and powerlines

Already longtime records have been broken in every parish in north Louisiana. In Jackson Parish the termperature this past Tuesday morning was recorded at 9 degrees with the wind chill factor making it feel like zero. Shreveport suffered the worst as temperatures plummeted to 2 degrees and the wind chill factor was minus 11. 

Recommended actions:
If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency.
Check on the latest road conditions before starting out. This can be obtained by calling 511 or going online.
Stay indoors unless you just have to go outside. Prolonged exposure to these kind of temperatures can cause hypothermia.
Walk and drive carefully on icy sidewalks and roads. Many injuries and accidents are caused by slippery conditions.
Before driving, let someone know your destination, route, and expected time of arrival.
If you lose feeling and color in your nose, ears, hands, or feet, cover the exposed area, avoid rubbing your skin, and seek medical help immediately as you may have frostbite.
When shoveling snow, take breaks and lift lighter loads. Working too hard can lead to heart attacks.
Stay dry. Wet clothes make you lose body heat, increasing your risk of hypothermia.

When the Coronavirus first became an issue in the state roughly a year ago the LHSAA diligently fell in step behind Governor Jon Bel Edwards to follow the mandates he issued. Recently Edwards issued a statement declaring that the state would remain in the “Modified” Phase 2 Recovery Plan. It is only natural then that the LHSAA would have a “modified” bracket for the girls playoffs, which along with prep boys postseason, is affectionately called “Marsh Madness.”

In Classes 2A-5A, the brackets stayed the same as in the past with 32 teams vying for the state championship. In Class A & B the bracket contains 24 teams this year, while Class C and Divisions II and IV has only 16 teams in it and Division III has 14 teams. Division I has an eight team bracket and Division V has only six competitors vying for the crown meaning only one game has to be won to make it to state. 

For Jonesboro-Hodge and Weston the journey is a daunting one that requires the traversing of a major road block to get to the state tourney. The #8 seeded, Lady Tigers open with a home game this Saturday at 3:00pm against #25 Pine before hopefully hosting another home game against the winner of #9 Rayville and #24 Kentwood in the regional round. A victory there then takes them to #1 seed Doyle for the right to play in the final four. Weston, who was given the #15 seed, also will host a first round contest this Saturday against #18 Pitkin. Game time is set for 4:00pm. To advance past the regional’s the Lady Wolves will then have to take down #2 Fairview, who for most of the year was the top ranked team in Class B, on the road. An upset there will most likely pit them against #7 Midland for the right to play in Hammond. 

Conversely Quitman, who compiled one of the best regular season winning percentages in school history, has earned what could be considered a “dream trip” through the playoffs. Actually they most likely won’t have to hit the road at all except for games at the state tournament. By virtue of their #4 seed in the Class B bracket the Lady Wolverines received a first round bye and will host either #13 Bell City or #20 Negreet in the regional round. If the seedings hold true Quitman would then host #5 seed Anacoco, with the winner having their name put on the banner that will hang in the rafters of University Center, designating them as one of four that will compete for the Class B crown. 

In other first round area playoff matchups, #9 Ruston will host #24 Sulphur while #28 West Ouachita will venture to #5 Mandeville in Class 5A. Winnfield, seeded #28 in Class 2A will travel to #5 Avoyelles Public Charter and in Class A, #12 Lincoln Prep will host #21 Centerville with #20 Arcadia traveling to #13 Plain Dealing in matchup of district 1-1A foes. Twelfth-seeded Choudrant will host #21 Monterey and #17 Simsboro will make the short trip to #16 Castor in Class B while #13 Calvin will travel to #4 Reeves in Class C. Division IV representative, Cedar Creek, who earned the highest seed of any area teams at #3, will host #14 Vermillion Catholic. 

Dates and times of first round girls playoff games

Teams	Date	Time
JHHS vs Pine	Saturday, February 20	3:00pm
Weston vs Pitkin	Saturday, February 20	4:00pm
Ruston vs Sulphur	Saturday, February 20	3:00pm
West Ouachita at Mandeville	Saturday, February 20	2:00pm
Winnfield at Avoyelles	Friday, February 19	5:30pm
Arcadia at Plain Dealing	Saturday, February 20	4:00pm
Lincoln Prep vs Centerville	TBA	TBA
Choudrant vs Monterey	Thursday, February 18	6:30pm
Simsboro at Castor	Saturday, February 20	2:00pm
Calvin at Reeves	TBA	TBA
Cedar Creek vs Vermillion Catholic	Monday, February 22	6:00pm

Did you know that there was a Bowfishing Hall of Fame? If you didn’t then you probably don’t know that a husband and wife team from Jackson Parish is two of it’s newest inductee’s. Bill and Pennie Montgomery of Jonesboro recently received the grand honor by the Bowfishing Association of America (BAA) in a ceremony held in Nashville, TN for their contribution to the sport, namely their patented invention of the QuickDraw Arrow Rest that has forever changed the sport.

There is an old saying that “necessity is the mother of invention.” That necessity is is the exact reason Montgomery developed a uniquely designed arrow rest that has proved to be the most user friendly, reliable and toughest on the market. Just as, or some would say even more important, it helps tremendously in improving accuracy.

“I fell in love with bow-fishing on my very first trip but I missed shooting a lot of fish because I had trouble keeping my arrow on the rest,” recalled Montgomery in an interview with the Jackson Parish Journal. “I tried some of the rests that were on the market but none of them was what I was looking for so I decided to build my own.”

Montgomery spent countless hours in perfecting his patented design which led to the opening of QuickDraw Outdoor Gear. Just how good is it?  When the QuickDraw Arrow Rest was first introduced in 2008 it took the sport by storm. Today, it is the most popular arrow rest specifically designed for bow-fishing in the industry and is marketed by prestigious, nationwide sporting goods outlets such as Bass Pro Shop, PSE, Darton Archery, as well as, leading on-line retailers E-Bay and Amazon.com.

“After three years of whittling down pieces of aluminum and thousands of shots, I finally got the rest to perform like I wanted it to,” said Montgomery. “I then approached my wife (Pennie) about putting it on the market and she not only quickly jumped on board with the idea but did virtually all of the compiling of product research information and helping secure the required patents and copy rights.” 

What started as a simple desire by Montgomery to be better at bowfishing has opened doors and taken them places that were never before even dreamed of. It has also led them to recognized as two of the most positive influences in the sport and in the exclusive company of the select few who has been inducted into the Bowfishing Association of America  Hall of Fame.

“When I started bowfishing a little over 20 years ago, I never imagined this sport would take us to where it has and be introduced to so many great people,” concluded Montgomery. “Pennie and I would like to thank the Bowfishing community for their support and to thank the BAA for inducting us into the Hall of Fame. It is an honor to be included with the other members.”

 

An old saying is that a picture is worth a thousand words. There is no way words can describe the beauty, fun and rare observances that takes place when the parish is covered in snow. Memories may fade but just look at a picture and every single detail about that day or time comes flooding back. Enjoy the small sampling of some of the pictures that will forever depict the year that Jackson Parish received two major snows less than 30 days apart for the first time in our lives. 

It is common knowledge that a good education is vital in the development of a child. The more they are educated the better prepared for the future they are. Have you ever given thought to just how is a child educated? Where are some of the places a child can gain valuable knowledge? How about what developmental skills are important so a child can maximize their potential? 

Of course, the first thing that naturally comes to mind is the necessity of getting an education through the school system. Sports plays an important role in the education of a child as well, as it teaches such things as how to compete, be a part of a team,  follow instructions and work for what you want. Gaining knowledge in religion and developing spiritual strength is also very important. 

There is another form of education that is vital in maximizing a child’s development. The place to get this is at your local library. It is there where unique skills in arts and crafts are learned. The library also offers innovative learning assistance tools that are key in helping a child not only gain knowledge but enjoy the learning process. Just as important to what a Library offers is the skill of the person that is designing the programs and leading the classes. That is why the residents and especially the youth of Jackson Parish are so very blessed to have Ms. Terrye Shackleford as the Children’s Program Coordinator.

Shackleford has been in charge of the Children’s Program at the Jackson Parish Library for the last 9 1/2 years. Her qualifications are impeccable. After graduating from Jonesboro-Hodge High School she received her college degree from Louisiana Tech. From there she earned a Masters from Louisiana State University in Shreveport (LSU-S) and the prestigious Masters +30 designation through studies at NSU, ULM, Louisiana Tech and Centenary College. She is a National Board Certified Teacher with 34 years of experience in the Louisiana school system. Twenty-seven of those years were spent teaching the first grade.

What makes her such a valuable asset to the area youth she works with, other than her impressive resume, is her understanding that each child has individual ways of learning and her knowledge of how to “reach” that child. Just as important is the love for each and everyone of the children she comes in contact with that is so very easy to recognize. Some may do what she does as a way to earn money. For Shackleford it is a passion that she describes as the “absolute joy of my existence.”

“My job at the library encompasses everything that I enjoy about life,” said Shackelford “I love to see joy and happiness in a child’s face. I love giving them the self-confidence needed not to be afraid of moving forward and learning new things in Art, Reading and Math. I want to be just a small part in helping children have a successful and happy life.”

Shackleford is the mother of Crystal, Jenny, Ryan, Kyle and his wife Jordan. She has three grandchildren in Garner, Karleigh Jo and Kaine. She has been a lifetime member of McDonald Memorial Baptist Church in Jonesboro and also attends the Bridge Community Church in Ruston where she teaches Sunday School to children.

She invites area parents and guardians to enroll their children aged 4-8 in Art classes and the Pre-K thru 8th grade youth in the Reading Eggs and Mathseeds program. See Children’s Programs below for more information. You can believe there is hardly anything better you can do that will help in the development of your child. 

What’s happening in February!

Black History Month – The month of February is recognized as Black History Month. In celebration the Jackson Parish Library will feature books available for check out on prominent individuals and events that have helped change the course of history. 

Bookmobile exterior design submittals still being taken: If you want to submit artwork for the exterior design of the new bookmobile time you need to do so soon as time is running out. The deadline for all submittals is February 26th. 

Learn about the COVID-19 vaccine – Do you have questions concerning the COVID-19 vaccine? Ms. Jeanette White from the Office of Public Health will be available at the Jonesboro branch, by appointment only, every Monday and Thursday at 1:00pm to answer any questions you may have and provide information. To secure an appointment either call 318-259-6601, send fax to 318-259-1146 or send email to: jeanette.glver@la.gov.

Pine Belt Multi-Purpose representative available for consultation – Client Service Manager TyAnne Williams is available for consultation. You can receive help with Unemployment Application Assistance, SNAP Benefits Application, Medicaid/Medicare Enrollment, Social Security Benefits Application and Social Security Card Applications. Information on Financial Counseling Courses, Commodities Distribution and Senior Food Boxes will also be provided. To secure an appointment please call 318-259-6444.

SNAP Program assistance – Ms. Jerlissa Elzy, who is the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Outreach Coordinator is available for assistance with Food Stamp Applications and redetermination as well as helping with a simplified report by calling 318-237-7764 or 318-322-3567.

Children programs 

Art Classes: To register please come by the Jonesboro Branch and speak with Terrye Shackleford or contact her by phone at 318-259-5697.  Class will be held from 4:00 to 5:00pm on select Tuesday’s and Thursday’s at the Jonesboro Branch and on select Monday’s at the Chatham Branch. Remaining dates available this month is February 18th at the Jonesboro Branch and February 22nd at the Chatham Branch. 

“Grab and Go” program: Art work supplies and instructions can be picked up at the Jonesboro Branch and taken home for those who are registered. 

Enrollment in the Reading Eggs and Math Seeds program has begun. If you would like to enroll your child please contact: Terrye Shackleford at 318-269-5697. Please be prepared to provide a cell phone number that can be used for a text to be received that will contain your child’s username and password for the program. Please note that this program is NOT HELD AT THE LIBRARY but is for use at home. As a requirement you must have internet service at your home to participate. Your child can work on an iPad, Laptop, Computer or Kindle of any kind. There is no cost to participate. 

Homework Louisiana – Powered by tutor.com and found at HomeworkLa.org this online service is very beneficial in providing assistance with school studies for students of all ages. 

Outreach Services

Monthly personalized delivery of books, audiobooks, magazines and more are available to residents of Jackson Parish, including Nursing Home residents and in-home daycares.

Additional Services and Resources

Binge Box – Checkout multiple movies for one week that counts as only one checkout. 

Vox Books  (Books that talk) – The first audio books that live in print books. The attached VOX Reader transforms an ordinary print book into an all-in-one read along. No need for computers, tablets or CD’s. Simply push a button to listen and read. 

Flipster – An easy to use resource for viewing best selling digital magazines. 

Freegal Music – Service that provides access to virtually every song ever recorded in over 100 countries. Includes catalog of legendary artists and over 40,000 music videos. 

Chilton Automotive Guide – A must for those do-it-yourself auto repair projects. Provides detailed sketches and instructions on virtually every repair job and new parts installation for all makes and models of automobiles. 

PrinterOn – Printing can be done from your Smartphone or Tablets through this free app by sending an email along with attachments to: jpl-jonesboro@printspots.com or jpl-chatham@printspots.com

Fax and copy services: Available at both branches. Pricing dependent on size. 

Jonesboro Branch information:

Address: 614 South Polk Avenue
Phone: 318-259-5697
Fax: 318-259-3374
Hours of operation: Monday – Friday (8:00am – 5:30pm), Saturday (8:00am – 12:00pm)

Chatham Branch information:

Address: 1500 Pine Street
Phone: 318-249-2980
Fax: 318-249-2981
Hours of operation: Monday-Thursday (8:30am – 6:00pm), Friday & Saturday (8:30am-12:30pm)

Jay Mallard Ford (JMF) reminds you that during extreme cold weather conditions that north Louisiana residents are currently enduring that it is advisable to check your oil regularly as in times like this it is not uncommon for a vehicle to use more oil than normal. As incentive to save you from getting out in this frigid weather, or even worse, put off a needed oil change JMF is offering a $10.00 discount on all oil changes till the end of February.

Nothing is harder on the engine of a vehicle than extreme winter weather. When temperatures dip as low as it has done in Jackson Parish over the last several days it makes it extremely difficult for an engine to warm up before you start driving and then later, run at peak capacity. It is also common that when short stops are made often times people keep their vehicle idling with the heater going full blast which is also very taxing on a motor. 

To make an appointment to have your oil changed or for any service needs call 318-259-9881 or toll free at 888-454-4836. Hours of operation are 8:00am – 5:00pm Monday thru Friday and 8:30am – 2:00pm on Saturday.