The Jackson Parish Police Jury would like to extend their appreciation to Ms. Carolyn Crawley for her service on the Jackson Parish Library Board. Ms. Crawley has served 34 of the last 35 years and has been very dedicated to the vision and mission of the Jackson Parish Library over the years. Thank you, Ms. Crawley for your continued commitment to Jackson Parish.
As a token of appreciation Ms. Crawley was presented with the Certificate shown below.
We’ve all been there, up Mildew Creek without a paddle.
Such is life when your clothes-washing machine goes 10 toes up.
It didn’t really die as much as it went on strike or was just terrible at its job. If my old clothes-washing machine were a football team, it would be the Dallas Cowboys, a mind-numbing imposter.
We inherited a “water and energy efficient” washing machine; it came with the house, same as the den and kitchen sink. And it looked like a washing machine, a little white cube with knobs and buttons and a big bin.
True to its branding, it was very efficient with water — but only because it hardly used any. And if you really think about it, water is one of the main things you need to wash clothes properly. So, the trouble was, this “pretend washer” wasn’t efficient at all in getting clothes clean. You know you’re in trouble when the clothes smell worse after they’re washed than before.
You know how a wet dog smells? There’s a charm to that smell if it’s on your dog from time to time. The smell loses its sentimentality if it’s coming from your blouse or blue jeans.
When your washing machine
Is all washed up,
It’s a dirty shame.
You’re out of luck
And in deep poo.
(You smell bad too.)
Even your friends and family want little to do with you if it’s 9 a.m., you’re working a desk job, and you smell like old eggs or last week’s trash.
“Honey, something stinks in here.”
“Yeah, sorry; I just washed a load of clothes.”
Something’s rotten in Denmark. Not optimal.
People could never have had this type of problem before the invention of clothes. You wore leaves. They got dirty or smelly, you threw them in the compost pile and picked yourself some new leaves, either in the yard or off the rack at The Leaves Store — “Got something in a Fig or a Palm? Size 16? Petite?”
But then some nitwit invented the snap brim hat, which led to cottage industries of neckties, pants, dresses, ascots, two-tone shoes and, eventually, the clothes-washing machine.
Sigh … It was a simpler time.
It’s been a while since I’ve bought an appliance. Maybe a toaster 10 years ago. This was different. This was Big Game Hunting, a safari.
Yet it proved as easy as studying online, then showing the nice man at the store a picture. He hit F4 and maybe a Shift, typed in the model number, looked up and said, “There’s one on the truck that just pulled up outside.”
If you ain’t got timing, you ain’t got nothin’.
Quick as he could say “Twelve months same as cash,” the deal was done. The delivery guys showed up two days later, unhooked the old and hooked up the new, did it all in maybe eight minutes, could not have been nicer, and hauled my old “washer that wasn’t really a washer” away for just $30.
“You’ll take this heavy piece of junk away from my house for just 30 bucks? When otherwise I’d have to borrow a friend and a truck and lift it and haul it myself? Glory!”
Would have paid twice that. Even three times, and I’m broke as that machine was.
For another $10, he said I could buy a “nice” plot in the Appliance Cemetery, between a busted coffee pot and a Frigidaire, and he’d bury her there. I told him I was good, to dump it in a ditch if he wanted. I’m a sentimental softie, but not in this case.
We are so spoiled, all of us. Used to, clothes-washing machines never broke down. Back then they were called “our grandmothers,” have a wash tub and washboard will travel.
Laundromats took off after World War II — talk about a lot of laundry to do — and in-house washing machines became less bulky and more affordable and, thankfully, ran on electricity and not on steam. Now they’re common as a ketchup or coffee stain.
Thank goodness for that. Especially when they actually work. I don’t look any better since getting a new washer, but I smell fresh as $736.06, plus tax.
Contact Teddy at teddy@latech.edu
Ricky Cash and Brandon Lamkin will serve the Jackson Parish Recreation District Board (JPRD) as President and Vice President for 2022. The selection of the two was confirmed after no other nominations were made by the quorum of Jeff Hairston, Chris Womack, Cash and Lamkin, for the offices at the regularly scheduled meeting of the JPRD held at the Jackson Parish Golf Course Clubhouse on Monday, January 17th. Brent Barnett, Rodney Potts and Sullivan Stevens were not present.
In additional action taken it was agreed to provide the Town of Chatham $1701.00 to help pay for costs associated with the town’s Christmas Parade. This was the remaining amount that was eligible to be received through the $10,000.00 Co-Operative Endeavor Agreement that the two entities entered into in 2021. A payment of $3,780.00 was also approved to be paid to Champion Trophies for medals and trophies that will be used with the Youth Basketball League (YBL).
In regard to the YBL, Recreation Director Tommy Smith let the board know that an all-time best of 43 teams were competing on each Saturday throughout February at the J-H Middle School and Jonesboro-Hodge High School. Smith also stated that the Cheerleader uniforms are now in.
Under old business former part time employee was promoted to Assistant Manager at the Golf Course and received a pay raise to $10.00 per hour. The board also agreed to compile a wage scale chart for all employees that will provide for raises based on time served and performance.
In final comments Brandon Lamkin informed the board that the LACC was looking at having a ride on the in February on the riding trail at the JPRD Complex and asked the board to consider promoting the trail for future side by side, motorcycle and bicycle events. Director Smith followed by saying that there is a race scheduled for the LACC on Sunday, February 13th with sign up and practice set for the day before.
In closing, Monday, February 21st was set for the next meeting date.
A beautiful, full-length portrait of Alverna Davis, wife of former Louisiana Governor and Jackson Parish native, Jimmie Davis, is now hanging in the Jimmie Davis room of the Jackson Parish Musuem and Fine Arts Association. The treasure was donated by the state of Louisiana.
On January 13th, Jonesboro Branch staff members of the Jackson Parish Library toured the Museum to look at the portrait and other beautiful and interesting memorabilia housed at the location on 515 South Polk Street in Jonesboro.
Museum Board President Barbara Johnson hopes that this tour was just the beginning of many more to come.
“We were delighted yesterday to host tours for the staff of the Jackson Parish library,” said Johnson. “We hope this will be the beginning of businesses, schools and our community taking advantage of the many interesting artifacts we have at the museum.”
Tours may be scheduled by calling Wilda Smith at 318-426-6511 or Barbara Johnson at 318-450-5561.
Board members Barbara Johnson, Melinda Garrett, Ben Ledbetter, Mark Culpepper, Wilda Smith and Mary Hoover met Monday at the Museum for the regularly scheduled January monthly meeting. Discussion was held about the purchase of a new greeting sign made possible by the generous gift received from the Jonesboro State Bank / Pledge 10 program that gave $5,000.00 for the purchase of a new sign and to help with the Museum being open to the public on more days including Saturdays.
The Board also was shown the two new plaques hanging in the entrance room of the Museum that were put there in honor of Alyce Colvin and Judie Blalock. These two ladies were instrumental in founding and then running of the Museum for years.
In additional action it was agreed that the officers that were elected late last year would continue in their position throughout 2022 and a CD player and copy of Jimmie Davis songs would be purchased that would be played in the Jimmie Davis Room of the Museum.
The belief in guardian angels goes back thousands of years. The Bible mentions several instances in which God sent angels to protect or deliver people from danger. Guardian angels are believed to be able to take on any form and can embody any person at any time. Believers contend that guardian angels are all around us although they are usually unaware that they are guardian angels.
On December 9, 2021, Muskogee, Oklahoma had at least two known cases where a guardian angel stepped in to help. It happened first at an elementary school. A seventh-grade boy was standing by a water fountain holding a water bottle. Wishing to refill his bottle, the boy pushed the button to turn the water on while he held the bottle in his other hand. Rather than releasing the button to remove the lid, he removed the cap with his teeth. When he inhaled, the bottle cap slid down and lodged in his throat. In a panic, he stumbled into the nearest classroom and mouthed the words, “I’m choking. I’m choking.”
It could have been his last breath, but his guardian angel was waiting. The guardian angel sprang into action as if he were placed in the moment for that very purpose. He got behind the seventh-grader and performed the Heimlich Maneuver in a manner that would have impressed most doctors. His only experience with the life-saving technique was what he had seen on YouTube. With a couple of thrusts, the bottle cap shot out of the panic-stricken boy’s mouth. The boy took several deep breaths and thanked his guardian angel. Rather than glorifying the fact that he had saved someone’s life, he humbly returned to what he had been doing before the choking boy staggered into his classroom.
Later that day, a fire broke out in the back of a house in Muskogee. As if by divine providence, a guardian angel was on his way to church with a family member when he noticed smoke and flames coming from the house. He ran from the car toward the home. He knocked on the door and yelled to those inside that the house was on fire. Several people ran from the home while the guardian angel ran into the house. A disabled woman who required a walker to get around, slowly made her way toward the front of the house. Unfortunately, the fire was spreading more quickly than she could move. She was gasping for breath and struggling to walk. The guardian ran to her, put his arms around her, and quickly helped her escape from the flames. The guardian angel remained completely calm through the whole ordeal, which could have claimed his life as well. Had he been a few seconds later, the woman probably would have been consumed by the flames. Once he made sure the woman was safe, he returned to his car and continued on to church.
On a single December day in Muskogee, Oklahoma, the same guardian angel saved the lives of a choking boy and a disabled woman from a house fire. People referred to him as a hero, but he just replied that “it was the right thing to do.” For his life-saving deeds, the Muskogee Police Department and Muskogee County Sheriff’s Office named him an honorary member of their forces. He was also recognized by the Muskogee Public Schools Board of Education during their December board meeting. ‘I don’t want everyone to pay attention to me,” he said. “I kind of did what I was supposed to do.” This guardian angel was Davyon Johnson, an 11-year-old boy.
Games to be played at J-H Middle School Gymnasium
9:00 BULLS vs SPURS (Age 5&6 B&G)
9:45 CLIPPERS vs PELICANS (Age 5&6 B&G)
10:30 LAKERS vs SPURS (Age 5&6 B&G)
11:15 BUCKS vs WARRIORS (Age 5&6 B&G)
12:00 ACES vs MERCURY (Age 7 & 8 G)
12:45 BLAZERS vs HAWKS (Age 7&8 B)
1:30 ACES vs STARS (Age 7&8 G)
2:15 THUNDER vs KINGS (Age 7&8 B)
3:00 MAGIC vs CELTICS (Age 7&8 B)
Games to be played at JHHS Girls Gymnasium
9:00 MYSTIC vs STORM (Age 9-10 G)
9:45 SPARKS vs FEVER (Age 9-10 G)
10:30 MYSTIC vs SKY (Age 9-10 G)
11:15 RAPTORS vs ROCKETS (Age 9-10 B)
12:00 GRIZZLIES vs THUNDER (Age 9-10 B)
12:45 CELTICS vs KINGS (Age 9-10 B)
1:30 WINGS DREAM (11&12G)
Games to be played at JHHS Boys Gymnasium
9:00 LAKERS vs SPURS (11&12 B)
9:45 BULLS vs BUCKS (11&12 B)
10:30 LAKERS vs SUNS (11&12 B)
11:15 HORNETS vs MAVERICKS (11&12 B)
12:00 LYNX vs DREAM (11&12 G)
12:45 SUN vs LIBERTY (11&12 G)
1:30 HEAT vs BLAZERS (13&14 B)
2:15 CELTICS vs MAGIC (13&14 B)
Jonesboro State Bank (JSB) has awarded a “Pledge 10” grant of $9,000.00 to Ringgold United Christian Ministries (RUCM) in order to expand our services to the Ringgold area recipients. The grants are offered yearly to the organizations that promote youth development and community enrichment as well as other projects. The grants benefit communities withing the JSB service area.
The grant has allowed us to greatly expand our food distribution of our food pantry. We are affiliated with the Northwest Louisiana Food Bank of Shreveport and have been serving the community since 2015. We currently have between 120 and 150 families we assist with monthly food distribution. The grant has funded the purchase of large refrigerator and freezer units that now allow us to offer fresh and frozen food that we could not offer until now. We already distribute a minimum of 40 pounds of food per family unit. The food has been mostly non-perishable items in the past.
We greatly appreciate and welcome the ability to offer even better-quality food to our recipients. Thanks to the generosity of resources afforded by this grant from the Jonesboro State Bank
If there’s one thing that’s becoming apparent, it’s the impact the FLW (Forest L. Wood, founder of Ranger Boats) organization had on the bass fishing landscape. Today we’ll look at what made FLW so special and helped lay the ground swelling that occurred during the 1990’s up till now. FLW made bass fishing more popular than ever before with their approach and commitment to sponsors who were not really associated with the outdoors. Let’s first start with what it was like to fish tournaments in the 1990’s.
Tournaments back then were events, or usually benefits, for someone or something. Most of these were annual events that drew anywhere from 40 to 60 boats. There were only a couple of high-level fishing circuits like B.A.S.S. and the Red Man Tournament Trail (which was one step below B.A.S.S.). Available too, were Fishers of Men, and a few American Bass Angler (ABA) events. Another pro/am circuit, known as Angler’s Choice, was also a popular tour and even had a team trail you could follow. Then there was the FLW tournament trail that was making headway and growing in popularity at a rapid rate.
Of all these organizations I’ve mentioned, FLW was the one that changed the landscape in the late 90’s and has led us to where we are today. For years, B.A.S.S. (The Bassmaster Elite Series) was, and still is, THE place and the goal of every angler in America. They set the standard that all tournament organizations wanted to be and FLW opened the door and gave anglers another option to pursue their dreams of fishing professionally. FLW took sponsors to a whole other level with boat and truck wraps of major sponsors like Wal-Mart, Land of Lakes, Castrol Oil, Tide, M&M’s, Kellogg’s Cereal, and Folgers Coffee, to name a few. They brought in sponsors that were not necessarily associated with the outdoors and promoted them the same way NASCAR did it.
This was probably the best thing that ever happened for professional bass fishing! FLW decided to attack and establish a grass roots following by setting up a progression of tournament trails. That ladder started with the BFL’s (Bass Fishing League), a series of one-day events all across the country, designed as pro/am events for the working man or weekend warrior. If you did well on that level, you could then advance to fish a multi-day tournament trail called the Everstart Series which was similar to the B.A.S.S. Open Series. Then after this, if you were really good, there was the FLW Series, which was one step below fishing as a full-time pro. Success in that series would lead anglers to the pinnacle of the organization…. the FLW Tour.
With their approach, FLW had created an avenue for amateur anglers to pursue their dreams of fishing as a professional. The awesome boat and truck wraps drew visual attention and made it cool to be a bass angler. It invigorated young boys and girls to want to be a pro angler. FLW then started the College Series that caught fire nationwide as colleges and universities created fishing teams and some even offered scholarships. Then they went even further and started high school bass fishing which has gone viral and insured that there will be future generations to pursue a career as a professional bass fisherman.
The sad part of all of this is that FLW no longer exists, as Major League Fishing (MLF) purchased FLW in 2020. This was sad to see, as I personally had fished several levels with FLW and enjoyed all of them. The downfall of FLW was poor financial management. Anglers also started to figure out the payback for their events was not up to par with other organizations. Entry fees went up and the payback for certain tournaments was less than 60 percent. MLF is trying to re-establish these tours once again, but the payback is still an issue, especially for the BFL tour which has the lowest payback of any tournament trail of this level. Hopefully, the powers that be at MLF will recognize this and correct it because we will always need at least two major fishing organizations that give anglers an option. Remember, competition between organizations makes everything better for all anglers. Till next time, good luck, good fishing and don’t forget to set the hook!!!
Steve Graf
Nathan Pettit Jr. (Ruston, LA) – Warrant for Molestation of a Juvenile (x5)
Michael Waldroup (Eros, LA) – Fire raising on lands of another with malice
Amanda Skipper (Saline, LA) – Bench Warrant
Henry Rodriguez (Winnfield, LA) – Home Invasion, Violation of Protective Order, Resisting an Officer (x3), Criminal Damage
Lorenzo Wiley (Jonesboro, LA) – Bench Warrant for Traffic Violation
Pete Trim (Eros, LA) – Bench Warrant for Domestic Abuse, Battery involving Strangulation
David L. Johnson (Monroe, LA) – Illegal carrying of weapon, Dogfighting
Reverend Marvin Denton, age 73 of Quitman, passed through Heaven’s gates on Tuesday, January 11, 2022. He was surrounded by his loving family. Marvin was born in Hodge, Louisiana, on April, 10, 1948. He grew up in Quitman. Throughout his childhood, Marvin enjoyed spending time working alongside his dad rebuilding small engines as well as time in the outdoors hunting and fishing. Marvin proudly served his country in the United States Navy from 1966 to 1969. He earned the National Defense Service Medal. Marvin was a pastor, evangelist, and a singer who served God in ministry for over 50 years with his wife, Shirley, by his side.
His ministry training began in 1971 and he was ordained by the Nazarene Church in 1977. His ministry spread outside the walls of the church to his over-the-road trucking and to a particularly rewarding time when he served as a prison chaplain simultaneous to his final pastorate at Highway Chapel Church of God in Quitman. Marvin was a family man. He shared his love of God and the outdoors with his children and grandchildren. In November of 2019 his health began to fail, but his gaze on Heaven stood strong.
Brother Marvin will be remembered by all for his love of Christ, his family, and his country. As you remember Brother Marvin, think about this favorite scripture passage of his from Romans 6:5-7. For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we will certainly also be united with him in a resurrection like his. For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body ruled by sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin — because anyone who has died has been set free from sin.
Those left to cherish his memory are his beloved wife of 51 years, Shirley (Curry) Denton; sons, Robert Michael Denton, Paul Wesley Denton (Janelle); daughter, Charlotte Denise Denton; grandchildren, Trent Alexander Denton, Claire Elise Denton, Chloe Grace Denton; brother, Anthony Denton (Beth); brother-in-laws, David Earl Brown, Tommy Foster; many loving nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his grandbabies, Malory Renee, Joshua Allen; sisters, Winifred Brown, MaryFrancis Foster; parents, Kree and Eloise (Kirkham) Denton.
Funeral services were held Monday, January 17, 2022 at 10:30am in the Southern-Edmonds Chapel with Reverend Joey Anderson and Reverend David Walsworth officiating. Burial followed in the Antioch Cemetery near Quitman.
The family wishes to extend a special thanks for the care provided by Kim Roberts, Felicia Malone, and Jacqueline Burks.
Doniva James Simons, age 77 of Chatham, passed away on Wednesday, January 12, 2022. Don was born to Henry Simons and Dorothy (Bratton) Simons in Jonesboro, Louisiana on Friday, October 20, 1944. He remained a Jackson Parish resident throughout his life.
Those left to cherish his memory are his siblings, William Simons, Edna Smith, Wanda Mathews (Roy), Helen Simons; numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Henry S. Simons; mother, Dorothy (Bratton) Simons Butler; brother, John Simons; sister, Shirley Marie Simpson.
A graveside service was held on Tuesday, January 18, 2022 in Chatham Cemetery with Minister Sheila Whitman officiating. Burial followed under the direction of Southern-Edmonds Funeral Home.
Serving the family as pallbearers were Danny Peel, Larry Hardwick, Jamie Williams, Sherman Smith, Tommy Smith, Jake Smith. Honorary pallbearers: Chris Higgins, Wade (Peanut) Smith, Scottie Pierre.
Gale Brumley, age 78 of Jonesboro, passed through the gates of Heaven into a joyous reunion. She was a member of Jonesboro 1st Baptist Church and enjoyed attending when she was able. Gale absolutely had a heart made to love animals. She owned and cared for many pets through the years and rescued many as well. She treasured the times she vacationed with her beloved Aunt and Uncle. She truly enjoyed reading as much as traveling.
A graveside service was held on Sunday, January 16, 2022 in the Jonesboro Cemetery with Dr. H. Glenn Jordan officiating. Burial followed under the direction of Southern-Edmonds Funeral Home.
Those left to cherish her memory are her cousins, H. Glenn Jordan, Debra Freyer, Dinah Kirkham, David Ray Duck. She was preceded in death by her husband, Roy Brumley; parents, Fletcher and Lessie (Jones) Kilgore; aunt and uncle, M.C. and Iva (Jones) Walker; cousins, Imogene Poole, Paul Jones.
At the Town of Jonesboro Board of Alderman meeting held last Tuesday, Councilman Pete Stringer stated that he believed that Brandon Brown should be immediately relieved of his duties as Jonesboro Fire Chief. Mayor Leslie Thompson followed by stating that the decision was his and he would not make any moves until the due process of the judicial system had taken its course.
Following an investigation that began last August and is still ongoing by the Louisiana State Police Insurance Fraud and Auto Theft Unit, Brown was arrested on January 4th on charges of insurance fraud, and malfeasance of office. This stemmed from an accident last year involving two Town of Jonesboro Fire Department vehicles, one of which Brown’s juvenile son was stated to be driving.
Now Stringer is saying that according to the Town of Jonesboro Book of Ordinances the statement made by Mayor Thompson, regarding him having absolute authority to fire, hire and/or suspend the Fire Chief, is erroneous.
“According to Article 2 of Ordinance 274, it is not the Mayor who has the final say so in situations like this but the governing body of the Town and members of the fire department after a public hearing has been held,” says Stringer.
Stringer also made clear that his recommendation is nothing personal against Chief Brown but having Brown removed from his duties is simply following the guidelines of the Ordinance and in the best interest of the town.
“I have nothing against Chief Brown personally,” says Stringer. “I think prior to this he has served the town well since he became Fire Chief and I hate that we are having to have these discussions now. I just don’t see how at this point he can continue to be Chief and command the respect and confidence of those in the department, which is required according to the guidelines of the Ordinance.”
The actual language of Ordinance 274, Article 2 states: The Chief shall be appointed by the members of the department for an indefinite period of time and his tenure of office shall depend upon his good conduct and efficiency. The Chief shall be technically qualified by training and experience and shall have the ability to command men and hold their respect and confidence. He shall be removed only for just cause and after a public hearing before the governing body of the Town and members of the fire department.
Upon learning of Councilman Stingers objections, Mayor Thompson issued the following statement.
I admonished Councilman Aaron Stringer at the town’s regular scheduled meeting on January 11, 2022 that his motion to terminate Chief Brown was not only ill-regular but in my opinion, unlawful. It’s improper to make a motion that requires a second and a vote on a matter that is outside of the scope of council’s authority as prescribed by the Lawrason Act; the rule of law, which governs our municipality.
Councilman Stringer stated that he wanted his position known to the public. You do that by simply making a statement for the record.
Now it appears as though Councilman Stringer has researched the archives and found the ordinance that
originally created the Fire Department in an effort to justify his recommendation to terminate the Chief or at least to secure the vote of Council to do so. Lawrason Act governs the town. (As the La. Constitution governs our state). Town ordinances are adopted by town council but can’t usurp the Lawrason rules and state statutes. (Just as our parish can’t adopt laws that are not in step with our state laws).
Article 1 of this ordinance referred to by Councilman Stringer states: that the Fire Department shall consist of a Chief, three assistant Chiefs and other officers as the Chief and his assistants may deem necessary for the effective operation of the department. The reality is that it has been more than 20 years since this
requirement was applicable.
Article 2 states that the Chief shall be appointed by members of the department for an indefinite period of time and his tenure of office shall depend upon his good conduct and efficiency. If this article was still applicable Councilman Stringer would be held in contempt for violating it because of the role that he played in confirming the Mayor’s recommendation to appoint the Chief in 2019.
Article 2 also states that: He shall be removed only for just cause and after a public hearing before the governing body of the town and members of the Fire Department. I can’t explain why over 30 years ago the Council would have required a public hearing for removal of a chief from office. Neither can I explain why there would have been a need for the presence of the embers of the Fire Department.
Article 3 states that the Chief shall be held accountable to the Mayor only and shall make written and verbal reports thereto as the Mayor may require. This language is very clear to me as to who the Chief responds and would be ultimately answerable to.
However, I stand by present day Lawrason Act rules and regulations by which I am sworn to follow. R.S. 33:404 (A)(1) states that the mayor has the additional powers, duties and responsibilities: To supervise and direct the administration and operation of all departments, offices, and agencies, other than a police department with an elected Chief of Police, in conformity with ordinances and law: however, no ordinance may limit the authority granted to the Mayor by this provision. An administrative staff are subordinate to the Mayor. Mayor’s authority to hire and fire includes the power to suspend, according to (Bourgere vs Anzelmo, App 5 Cir.1988, 517 So.2d 1121)
I would suggest that Alderman Stringer take the time to re-familiarize himself with the powers of the Board of Aldermen as prescribed by the Lawrason Act. The duties can be found in R.S. 33:362(A)(1) and states that outside of R.S. 33:404 (A)(3), board does not have authority to hire, five, or discipline municipal
employees or to review termination of municipal employees made by the Mayor. (AGO )12-0056).
I think it is unfortunate that we are so quick to judge and to utilize our authority to hurt and to condemn our fellowman. If you are ever falsely accused of an act of something that you have not done, you will understand why my reaction and response will always lean toward compassion and will always embrace the judicial principle of innocent until proven guilty.
One of the premier days at every school is Homecoming. Not only do alums and former classmates gather to remember the good ole days but it is a gala event for the current students, faculty, staff, family and friends as well. For Taylor Chatham and Eli McBride it will be a day they will never forget pair were introduced as the 2022 Homecoming Queen and King at Weston High School this past Thursday along with the maids from each class and their escorts.
For a complete gallery of pictures compiled by Kristie Tolar / Sasse Lynn Shenanigans go to: https://www.sasselynn.com/
Freshman Maids – Anslee Aldy, Olivia Marsh
Freshman Escorts – Jacob Gill, Bryce Zehr
Sophomore Maids – Carroll Anne Foshee, Alaina Trosclair
Sophomore Escorts – Tayton Culpepper, Rylee McBride
Junior Maids – Heili Bryant, Kinleigh Harvey, Emma Kate McBride
Junior Escorts – Hayden Collins, Mitchel Mathews, Bryan McMillan
Senior Maids – Mattie Claire Beaubouef, Mary Catherine Hay, Makenzie Henderson
Senior Escorts – Garrison Perry, Seth Peterson, Caleb Waters
Attendants – Gracie Marie McBride, Brennon Scott Otwell, Kinsley Sage Greer
Homecoming Queen – Taylor Chatham
Homecoming King – Eli McBride
The awards keep rolling in for Jonesboro-Hodge High School linebacker Xavier Atkins who last week was named to the Class AA All-State Defensive First Team by the Louisiana Sports Writers Association (LSWA). Now the sensational sophomore, who led the nation in solo stops and the state in tackles regardless of classification, has earned first team designation to the All-GeauxPreps Small School squad.
Atkins was the only underclassmen selected to the defensive team and one of only two chosen on the 29 man team that represents both the offensive and defensive sides of the ball.
In just two years, Geaux Preps has become the primary and most respected source of information regarding high school athletic programs in the Louisiana High School Athletic Association (LHSAA). This is the first year that the online sports platform has chosen this elite combination of the state’s top football talent.
“I am very happy for Xavier to be given this honor,” said JHHS head coach Terrance Blankenship. “Geaux Preps is highly respected for their knowledge of the teams and players on the high school level across the state.”
Position, Player, School, Class
QB Landry Lyddy Calvary Baptist Senior
RB Harlem Berry St. Martin’s Freshman
RB Grant Ducote Rosepine Junior
RB London Williams Many Senior
WR Jayven Claybrook Logansport Junior
WR Omarion Miller North Caddo Junior
WR Tristan Wiley Ouachita Christian Senior
TE Will Randle Newman Junior
OL Terry Augustine Avoyelles Senior
OL Bo Bordelon Newman Senior
OL Davion Champ Homer Junior
OL Fitzgerald West Lafayette Christian Senior
OL Bryant Williams Grand Lake Senior
PK Caleb Clement Calvary Baptist Senior
AP Angelo Izzard, Jr. Southern Lab Senior
Position, Playe,r School, Class
DL Maxie Baudoin Ascension Episcopal Senior
DL Tonzaiha Bland Logansport Senior
DL Casey Cobb Ouachita Christian Senior
DL Jalen Smith Avoyelles Senior
LB Xavier Atkins Jonesboro-Hodge Sophomore
LB Shane Forman Southern Lab Senior
LB Javae Gilmore Amite Senior
LB Kaiden Jones St. Charles Senior
DB Jordan Allen Lafayette Christian Senior
DB Herman Brister III Southern Lab Senior
DB Tackett Curtis Many Junior
DB Joseph Schlatre St. John Senior
P Landon Graves Ouachita Christian Junior
KR Dmitry Payne Lincoln Prep Senior
The basketball schedule for the local schools took it’s hardest hit yet from the Covid Omicron Variant this past week. Only one school in the Jackson Parish Journal coverage area got a game in this past week and Saline was forced to play with just six players.
This week is expected to see more action as all the players and schools are expected to come off of the required quarantine. Local fans should certainly hope the games will be played as all three Jackson Parish schools are slated to play at home.
Headlining the lineup is a tilt between two of north central Louisiana’s best “small school” boys teams. Top rated and defending state champion, Simsboro, who is sporting an 18-1 record, takes on 7-3 and 6th ranked, Jonesboro-Hodge, following a junior varsity and girls game. First game is slated to begin at 5:00pm.
Just up the road, #16 Quitman (12-12) will try to move above the .500 mark on the year when they welcome #8 Saline (11-13) in a boys parish border battle. This will also follow a junior varsity and girls game with action also beginning at 5:00pm. Weston (10-12) will also entertain Castor (5-18) in a battle of old district foes with the girls to tip off at 6:00pm.
Games of Tuesday, January 18
| Home | Visitor | Games | Time |
| JHHS | Simsboro | JV, G, B | 5:00pm |
| Quitman | Saline | JV, G, B | 5:00pm |
| Weston | Castor | G, B | 6:00pm |
Davis Tolar, Savantez Phillips and Ladayrun (L.D.) Manning have been selected as the Student Athlete of the Week at the three respective high schools in Jackson Parish. Through the program sponsored by the Jackson Parish Hospital in Jonesboro, select faculty and staff from Jonesboro-Hodge, Quitman and Weston High Schools choose a representative each week who best demonstrates what it means to combine academic acheivement and athletic accomplishments.
Ladayrun (L.D.) Manning – Senior basketball player at Quitman High School
Davis Tolar – Senior basketball player at Weston High School
Savantez Phillips – Junior basketball player at Jonesboro-Hodge High School
This past Tuesday, Lynn Treadway and Regina Rowe were elected as the Jackson Parish Police Jury (JPPJ) President and Vice President for 2022. On Wednesday, the Chairman and members of the nine Committee’s of the JPPJ were named as well as the representatives to the various parish boards and commissions.
| COMMITTEE | CHAIRPERSON | MEMBERS |
| Finance | Lynn Treadway | Regina Rowe, John McCarty |
| Road | Amy Magee | Lynn Treadway, Lewis Chatham |
| Solid Waste | Lynn Treadway | Amy Magee, John McCarty |
| Projects | Regina Rowe | Lynn Treadway, Tarneshala Cowans |
| Veterans | Tarneshala Cowans | Todd Culpepper, Lewis Chatham |
| Building & Grounds | Todd Culpepper | John McCarty, Tarneshala Cowans |
| Personnel | Regina Rowe | Amy Magee, Tarneshala Cowans |
| Economic Development | Lewis Chatham | Regina Rowe, Lynn Treadway |
| Parish Cleanup | John McCarty | Lewis Chatham, Todd Culpepper |
| Library Board | Lewis Chatham |
| Sales Tax Board | Lynn Treadway |
| Pine Belt MPAA | Todd Culpepper |
| Broadband | to be determined |
| NLEP | Regina Rowe |
| Sparta Commission | Regina Rowe |
| Workforce Development | John McCarty |
The election of a new President, Vice-President and Treasurer for 2022 will highlight the regularly scheduled monthly meeting of the Jackson Parish Library Board. The session will take place at 4:30pm on Tuesday, January 18th in the McBride Room at the Jonesboro Branch located at 614 South Polk Avenue.
Also to be discussed is the authorization for a Director and two staff members to attend the Public Library, Louisiana Library and Texas Library conferences that will be held in March and April of this year. In regard to the Chatham branch, proposals for repairs and renovations will be considered, as well as, an update on the new Story Walk collaboration.
In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance, please contact Floyd Knox at (318) 259-5697.
The Board for the Jackson Parish Recreation District (JPRD) will elect their officers for 2022 at the regularly scheduled monthly meeting that will be held at 6:00pm on Monday, January 17th. The meeting will be held in the Banquet Room of the Jackson Parish Golf Course Clubhouse, located at 524 Clubhouse Drive in Jonesboro.
In additional action Brent Barnett, Ricky Cash, Jeff Hairston, Brandon Lamkin, Rodney Potts, Sullivan Stevens and Chris Womack will discuss their involvment with the Town of Chatham and the plan regarding trophies and medals.
JPRD Director Tommy Smith will also provide an update on the Archery and additional ongoing programs as well as an update on what is going on at the Golf Course. A discussion of old and new business along with setting a date and time for the next board meeting will conclude the activities.
1. Call to Order
2. Invocation
3. Pledge of Allegiance
4. Public Comments
5. Election of Board Officers for 2022: A. President; B. Vice-President
6. Approval of Minutes (December) and Financials (November/December)
7. Town of Chatham
8. Champion Trophies: A. Basketball Trophies/MedalS
9. Programs/Archery Update
10. Golf Course Update
11. Old Business
12. New Business
13. Set Date and Time for Next Board Meeting
14. Adjourn
Webster Parish resident, Chad Allison, has a proven record of being able to waylay trophy bucks. Visit his Shongaloo home and you’ll see proof; he has 21 trophy mounts hanging on the walls of his home.
“I own some land in the area and I have other areas that I lease for deer hunting,” Allison said. “However during my years of chasing trophy bucks, I have found that often the biggest buck in the woods tends to hide out in places you might not expect. Strange as it may seem, I often find bucks right over the back yard fence of country homes, especially when there’s a thicket and when they are pressured by hunters. They feel safer there.”
Allison put his money where his mouth is when he got a tip about a big buck hanging out in just such a place, just over the back yard fence of a six acre plot owned by a lady. He talked with her and she gave him permission to try his luck on the buck that was hanging out back there.
“With her permission, I put out feed and a trail camera and got photos of a really nice buck on her property. On the morning of November 8, I decided to hunt the big buck. She let me use my bulldozer to make a lane next to an old fence on the property. I like to hunt from lock-on stand but with the area so small, I was afraid getting a stand up a tree would be too much noise. “There was a cedar tree that had blown down along the fence so I decided to make me a seat among the branches of the fallen cedar,” Allison explained.
Allison has the type game camera that alerts his cell phone when something trips the camera and he’s able to see what it is. While he is sitting nestled among the branches of the cedar just before daylight, his phone alerted him to a photo of the buck down the lane some 100 yards or so and then the buck was gone.
“Just as it started to get daylight, I saw something move 10 feet from where I sat and there was the buck right there in my face. When I looked up to see what was moving, he saw me move, took off and I figured I had really messed up,” he said.
That afternoon, Allison decided to crawl back in the cedar although he had to wonder if the fact the buck had seen him that morning, he may not show up again. However, around 4:20, a doe stepped out at 100 yards and right behind him was the buck. Putting the crosshairs on the buck’s vitals, he hit the trigger and the buck hit the ground.
“His rack was impressive sporting 14 points with only a little over 2 inches of irregular points. I’m not really interested in competition but my son’s girl friend had gotten a buck with her bow and they were taking it to Simmons Sporting Goods in Bastrop to enter in the store’s contest. They suggested that they take mine and I agreed and if they wanted to enter mine in the contest, I didn’t have a problem with it,” he said.
Allison’s buck was measured with a rack scoring 174 2/8 inches of mass and currently sits in fourth place in the men’s division of the contest. Allison shared a secret on downing trophy bucks, stating that his passion is looking for and hunting big bucks. The racks on his walls confirms that passion.
“I find those folks who live in the country and who have small patches of land around their houses. After getting permission, I use game cameras to see what’s there and put out feed to draw the deer to me. So far,” he said, “it’s been pretty successful.”
CANEY LAKE – Bass fishing has been best fishing deep water with deep diving crank baits, jigging spoons and tail spinners. Crappie are in the deep water out from the dam with best catches made on shiners or jigs fished near the bottom in 30-35 foot water. Jigging spoons bounced off the bottom in deep water are fair for yellow bass. No report on catfish. For information contact Hooks Marina at 249-2347, Terzia Tackle at 278-4498 or the Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707.
BLACK BAYOU – Fishing is slow. No report this week. Contact Honey Hole Tackle Shop 323-8707 for latest information.
OUACHITA RIVER – Bass are fair in the run-outs from river lakes to river. Crank baits and soft plastics are picking up a few. Crappie have been best fishing around submerged tops 12-20 feet deep in 25 foot water on jigs or shiners. For latest information, contact the Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707.
LAKE D’ARBONNE – Crappie fishing has been best fishing the channel edges in water up to 35 feet deep on shiner or jigs with best jigs this week being the Lite’s Out, Popsicle and Fred’s Special. Bass are in the channels in deeper water with crank baits, jigs and soft plastics picking up some. Bream fishing is slow while catfish are still biting cold worms fished off the banks. 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 best fishing around submerged brush in 25 foot water with shiners or jigs working best. Bass are fair with most running rather small and hitting on a variety of lures. A few bream have been caught off the banks on night crawlers. No report on stripers or catfish. For latest information, call Misty at Kel’s Cove at 331-2730 or Terzia Tackle at 278-4498.
LAKE POVERTY POINT – Catfishing has been good on cold worms. Crappie fishing has been best on the south end of the lake on shiner or jigs. No report on bass. For latest reports, call Poverty Point Marina at 318/878-0101.
LAKE ST. JOHN – The water is low; launching boats is a near impossibility. No fishing this week. For information, call Ken Mahoney at 318-201-3821.
LAKE YUCATAN – The water is rising and fishing is slow except on the south end where some crappie have been caught. For information, call Surplus City Landing at 318/467-2259.
It is with great sadness that the family of Marlene Rome announces her passing in Bossier City on Thursday, January 5th, at the age of 79. Marlene was born July 19, 1942 in Donaldsonville, Louisiana, to Frank Sylvester Noel Sr. and Constance Jackson Noel.
Marlene was proceeded in death by her parents and her husband, Anthony Nicholas Rome Sr.
She will be lovingly remembered by her children Anthony (Tag) Nicholas Rome Jr., Todd Michael Rome and wife Tammy, and Christopher Noel Rome; her grandchildren Victoria Noel Rome, Anthony Nicholas Rome III and his wife Katie, Michael Anthony Rome, Sophia Arlene Rome, Camille Alice Rome; and great grandchildren Gabriella Oliva Rome, Anthony Nicholas Rome IV, along with additional family, and countless friends.
She was laid to rest with the love of her life, Tony Rome, at the St. Lucy’s Catholic Church cemetery in Hodge, Louisiana on January 10th. The Romes, although both south Louisiana natives, settled in Jonesboro and joyfully raised their family there.
Memorial donations in the couple’s honor (Tony & Marlene Rome) may be made to the American Heart Association.
It could be said that the handicapped anglers who like to fish on Caney Lake now have it made in the shade. This is because there is now a new roof over the handicap accessible pier located at the Spillway on Caney Lake.
It all came about when a couple of months ago an elderly lady who uses a wheel chair to get around thought it would be a nice day to go fishing. She knew the perfect spot for her too as she had been there many times before, which was the handicap accessible pier.
As usual, she enjoyed her day on the lake. There wasn’t a cloud in the sky and the fish were biting just enough to keep her interested but as normal in the late fall in north Louisiana, it got hot pretty quickly. As fate would have it she got the opportunity to speak to Gary Joynor, who is a member of the Jackson Parish Watershed District (JPWD) Committee.
“It sure would be nice to have a roof over that pier on the Spillway,” she told Joynor.
Thinking about it he agreed that wasn’t a bad idea at all, matter of fact a very good one.
Joynor spoke to his fellow committee members which resulted in an application being sent to the Jonesboro State Bank (JSB) / Pledge 10 program. Through this endeavor the JSB invests 10% of their profits for community enrichment opportunities. Soon the roof went up and the temperature went down.
“I would like to thank the Jonesboro State Bank and the Watershed Board Committee for making this happen,” said Joynor. “We hope everyone will enjoy this new upgrade.”
With friends, family and members of the Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce in attendance, owners Judie and Wayne McGure celebrated the grand opening of J & W Timeless Treasures on Friday with a traditional ribbon cutting ceremony.
The business that is located on the left end of the shopping center on Hwy 4, just south of Hwy 167, will be open for business Monday through Saturday from 9 AM to 6 PM. For more information call: 903-235-4798 or 903-239-1410.
When the calendar turned to 2022 it ended a month full of activities and celebration of the Christmas season that has made the town of Jonesboro well known, especially for their lights display, accross the state.
Spearheading this effort each year is the Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce and in particularly it’s director Wilda Smith, who deserves great appreciation for the hours and hours put forth for the residents of Jackson Parish.
While she is the one who should be given thanks, as is her nature, Smith gives her apprection to the many who stepped up to make this year’s event one of the best ever through the statement below.
“The Jonesboro Hodge community pulled together to have a beautiful display of Christmas lights for December 2021. There are many to thank for their contribution and support.
Thanks to Mayor Thompson and the Town council for their support for the Christmas decorations which allowed Warren Bradley and his crew to create a fantastic design of all of the lights and displays.
Thanks to Mayor Palmer of Hodge and their town employees by having a beautiful display of Christmas lights on 167.
Appreciation to Tiffiny Walker, one of our new chamber members who met greeted and assisted the vendors who were set up on Polk Avenue.
Thanks to Christie weeks who coordinated the coffee for our grand marshal and the ladies of the community who furnished the refreshments.
Jonesboro State Bank for sponsoring the school choirs in the veterans Park. Thanks to the schools for participating.
Appreciation to Glen Kirkland, Will Kirkland and David Caskey for moving and returning the sound system.
hanks also to Bill Staples for another wonderful job of emceeing our Christmas parade.
Lining up the parade thanks goes to Todd Culpepper, Glen Hathaway, Randy Layfield and Ross Pullin at First Baptist Church.
At the Methodist Church thanks to David Chestnut and David Caskey.
We thank Rusty Tolar for chauffeuring our judges around prior to and after the parade.
And once again we could not have a parade or the other events that we have in our parish without our first responders, who provided us with security and were ready there for emergencies.”
Wilda Smith