The Jonesboro-Hodge High School girls basketball team is conducting a fund raiser through a raffle that has multiple chances of winning various prizes. There will be three prizes given away with a full size wooden picnic table being the grand prize. Lucky winners will also have a shot at a $75.00 and $50.00 gas card as well. 

Cost of a ticket is only $2.00 and the drawing for the winners will take place on February 3rd. If you would like to view the table it is on display at the JHHS Boys Gymnasium. 

The Lady Tigers would like to thank Pardue Builders of Jonesboro for donating the supplies for the table and the students of the JHHS Career and Technical Education program for putting it together. 

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The Lotis Group / Vertical Bridge 500, LLC
Legal Notice

“Vertical Bridge 500, LLC would like to place on notice the proposed construction of a 305’ (315’ including all appurtenances) self-support lattice tower known as Hodge (164.8 ground elevation). If lighting is required the applicant will request the use of dual red/white, medium intensity lighting (but will ultimately use lighting/marking required by the FAA) located at 32°15’58.92” north latitude and -92°43’35.77” west longitude at near 392 Bank Street, Hodge, Louisiana 71247, ASR File #A1203108. The application for this proposed project can be viewed at www.fcc.gov/asr/applications by entering the ASR file number. If you have environmental concerns about the proposed structure, a Request for Environmental Review may be filed with the FCC at www.fcc.gov/asr/environmentalrequest or by writing to FCC Requests for Environmental Review, ATTN: Ramon Williams, 445 12th St SW, Washington, DC 20554. The FCC strongly encourages interested parties to file Requests for Environmental Review online. Requests for Environmental Review may only raise environmental concerns and must be filed within 30 days of the date that notice of the project is published on the FCC’s website.”

Chatham Town Council Meeting Minutes
January 11, 2022

The Chatham Town Council met in regular session with the following members present: Mayor Gregory Harris, Council members Marvin Davis, Toni Malone, Laverne Mixon and Sue Proffer. Absent Mike Wilson. Visitors present were John Mize, Phillis Moore and Bernadean James. Marvin Davis led the Pledge of Allegiance and invocation was given by Mayor Harris. Sue Proffer offered the motion, seconded by Laverne Mixon and carried to approve the minutes of the regular meeting held on December 14, 2021.

Toni Malone offered the motion, seconded by Marvin Davis and carried to approve the payment of the monthly bills. Phillis Moore of the Jackson Parish Library made a request for permission from the town to install a Story Walk at the walking track. Marvin Davis offered a motion, seconded by Sue Proffer and was approved giving permission and support for the installation of the Story Walk. A motion was offered by Marvin Davis, seconded by Toni Malone and carried to give permission to Mary Oldham to remove, at her expense, the three Sycamore trees located across from her driveway on Mill Street. 

A motion was offered by Toni Malone, seconded by Sue Proffer and carried to go into executive session. A motion was offered by Toni Malone, seconded by Marvin Davis and carried to go out of executive session. Marvin Davis offered the motion, seconded by Toni Malone and carried to accept the financial statements as presented. A motion was offered by Marvin Davis, seconded by Laverne Mixon and carried to adjourn the meeting.

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At the regularly scheduled monthly meeting for January the Jackson Parish Police Jury (JPPJ) elected Lynn Treadway and Regina Rowe as the new President and Vice President for 2022. Gina Thomas was also approved to be Secretary/Treasurer once again.  

As soon as the voting was done, outgoing President Amy Magee surrendered her chair to Treadway, who then presided over the meeting held at the Charles H. Garrett Community Center on Monday. The three along with additonal board members Todd Culpepper, Lewis Chatham and John McCarty then decided to move the meeting dates for 2022 to the second Tuesday of each month beginning at 5:30pm. 

Accompanying measures such as approving the new officers to sign documents and pay bills on behalf of the JPPJ, as well as, adding their names to bank account signature cards were then taken along with adopting the 2022 Holiday Schedule.

Financial, OEP, Operations, Road, Solid Waste Department Management reports were then given followed by Insurance proposals by Travelers and LUBA for 2022 being accepted as was material bids for fuel/oil and cold mix.

Various Parish Board appointments and a request for a proposal for pre-disaster emergency debris hauling was then approved. In final action the request from the Jackson Parish Correctional Center to use the parking lot of the Charles H. Garrett Community Center for bus driver training was met with the decision that the Board would look into entering into a Co-Operative Endeavor Agreement. 

The meeting began with Public Comments being made by Jackson Parish Library Director Floyd Knox and Linda Devine. Knox briefly outlined the final report from Architectural Firm, Coco and Company, that he had provided each juror of the proposed 2022 Space Planning at the Jonesboro and Chatham branches.

This was followed by Devine first giving acknowledgment to outgoing Board President Amy Magee for a job well done and compliments to the Police Jury for providing the trash bin sites on Zoar Road. She then added her displeasure of the written response she received from a representative of the JPPJ in regard to her request to have lighting provided at the location where the reply was that vehicle headlights would suffice to dump garbage at night and exit safely.

 

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It was the last item on the agenda but first in the mind of everyone in attendance. In the end the Jonesboro Mayor, Leslie Thompson, told the Board of Aldermen and those in attendance that he is standing behind his previous statement of retaining embattled Jonesboro Fire Chief Brandon Brown untill due process dictates otherwise. 

“As Mayor of Jonesboro, I have absolute authority to hire, fire and/or suspend any department leader of the town other than the Chief of Police,” said Thompson. “I have seen with my own eyes what it is to be punished before due process has the opportunity to take it’s course and because of this I stand by my decision to wait to decide the Chief’s fate until due process in this matter is completed.” 

The statement came after the Board of Aldermen went into Executive Session to discuss the situation involving Brown and the issue of him being arrested for Insurance Fraud. It took only a short period of time for the Board to return with Alderman Pete Stringer making an announcement that no action was buit he was  making a motion that Brown be terminated  This was seconded by Robbie Siadek. 

Discussion followed where Stringer stated that he was very disappointed in the situation and didn’t see how Brown could maintain leadership and discipline among his employees when he isn’t held accountable for his own actions.

In earlier action the Board of James Ginn, Stringer, Siadek, Nia Evans-Johnson and Devin Flowers agreed to Town Engineer Brad Graff’s recommendation to provide $368,000.00 so the town could move forward in receiving 2.174 million dollars in grants. 

In particular, $200,000.00 was earmarked for matching funds for a 1.2 million dollar LCDBG Grant that would help with infrastructure repair of the water and sewage system. Eighty thousand was put toward the purchase of aerators for the oxidations ponds and $68.000.00 was provided for a Capital Outlay Grant. 

In a seperate measure it was agreed to draft Resolution 2022-01 so that Jonesboro would qualify for an ARPA grant dedicated to Airports. The town’s broadband server, Hi-Tech was granted $22,410.77 to help replace the outdated and malfunctioning hardware and computer system. Also a zoning change was made from Industrial to Residential on Industrial Drive to accomodate the planned senior living subdivision and a new ordinance was passed that corrected language to the Sunday Sales ordinance that was passed last year. 

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The Jackson Parish School Board (JPSB) has extended the 10 “Covid days” that was granted to employees for the calendar year 2021 to June 30, 2022. This will be in effect as long as funds from Strong Start or ESSERS programs, which pays for this, is available. 

After newly elected President Gloria Davis called to order the first meeting of 2022, that was held on January 10th in the Meeting Room of the JPSB Central Office located at 315 Pershing Hwy., Kristie Bass was appointed to serve on the Jackson Parish Sales Tax Board – January 1, 2022 – December 31, 2022.

Addtional Board members Dennis Clary, Wade McBride, Mary Saulters, Calvin Waggoner, Rickey McBride and Gerry Mims then approved payment of bills from the General Fund, Federal Program, Food Service, Sales Tax, Special Education and District Maintenance. Payment to Presidio in the amount of $33,481.77 for Wi-Fi outdoor access at all schools, to be paid from ESSERS III, followed along with the Public School Choice JBCE policy being approved for revision.

In final action the a Fellows Paper Shredder, Model 485CI, that was in the Central Office and a 3235C Gang Mow – John Deere mower, Serial #TC32350040498 was declared as surplus property. The mower is to be sold to the Jackson Parish Recreation Department at a cost of $4,000.00 with the monies to be returned to the Jonesboro Hodge football account.

 

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After winning their first four games of the 2022 portion of the basketball season Weston was primed to finally get back to the .500 mark for the first time since the second game of the season. Saline, who has put together a nice streak of their own since the Christmas holiday break would have none of that! 

The difference in the game was the uncanny marksmanship from the line that lifted the Bobcats to a 11-13 mark and their 5th win in their last six games. Saline made 25 of their 31 charity shots in the game for a 80.6% that included 16 of 19 in the final quarter to help stem a push from Weston, who now sits at 10-12 on the year. Conversely Weston made 6 of 10 from the foul line as Bryce Zehr and Eli McBride scored 8 apiece. 

The victory was even sweeter for Saline considering Klint Robinson’s squad had several sidelined due to Covid quarantine protocal. Shawn Staggs led the way with a season high 17 points followed by D.J. Rager-Ridley, who also posted a season best 11 points. 

Lady Wolves win 5th straight

Ask any succesful player and they will tell you that their teammates are like their family. What about when the assistant coach is really a family member of the head coach? Not only a family member but the sister head coach’s, brother? At Weston they have been successful with the real deal family leading the charge as Jennifer Tolar, who has been stepping in for Stacy Tucker recently and her brother Jeff McBride has led Weston to their fourth and fifth straight victory with wins over Claiborne Christian and Saline. The victories, which may be the first ever in school history where a sister and brother combined to coach a team. The back to back wins lifted the Lady Wolves to a 14-8 record overall. 

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It is common knowledge that he Jonesboro and Chatham branches of the Jackson Parish Library (JPL) has some of the most user friendly layouts that you could want. Asking you to forgive the “slang” grammer, You ain’t seen nothin yet!

Recently JPL Director Floyd Knox received the recommendations for an improved space planning project that has been submitted by the Architectural Firm, Coco and Associates. The plan that is expected to go into effect this calendar year not only rededicates space in the library to allow for included programs but provides outdoor improvements as well. 

No stone was left unturned when attempting to improve the mechanical capability of the library, logistical use of the space available and overall inside and outside asthetics. An outdoor interactive playground has been added  and even the bookmobile is getting a new home. Over the next several weeks the Jackson Parish Journal is going to take a close look at all the improvements that can be expected.

Betty Decou and Charlotte Bailey enjoy book signing on Tuesday! Connor Worthington was the winner of the drawing for “My Best Friend Murgatroyd” the book written by Jonesboro native, Mrs. Betty DeCou and illustrated by Charlotte Bailey. If you missed the book signing and would like to purchase either this book for a cost of $18.00 or the first the two collabortated on entitled The Adventures of the Tree Sprites, contact Joanna @ 318-259-5697.

 

Bookmobile Schedule for Wednesday and Thursday

Wednesday, January 12th
Weston High School (8:00 – 12:00)
Pearrie Park (1:15 – 1:45)
Caney Creek (1:55 – 2:15)

Thursday, January 13th
J-H Middle School (8:00 – 10:30)

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The most highly awarded baseball player from Jackson Parish in 2021, received offer from Louisiana Christian University, (formerly Louisiana College) this past week. Luke Morgan from Quitman High School, was named to the first team for District 2B All-District, All-Northeast Louisiana, All-Region (11 Parishes regardless of school size classification). He also earned first team, Class B All-State from the Louisiana Sports Writers Association (LSWA), as well as, the Louisiana Baseball Coaches Association (LBCA) after  batting .500 on the year, posting an on base percentage of .646 and stealing 41 bases.

 

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Five years or so ago, my spousal unit and I woke to a perfectly wonderful, cool and clear late-winter Saturday, a day full of hope and promise — then took a chance on ruining it all by going to a marriage workshop.

Going to workshops or seminars or couple-improvement things is OK if you’re alone. If you attend as a couple, it’s wise to wear camo. Could be combat.

Because humans are naturally defensive, there is potential, when confronting defects, for tense moments. By tense I mean something along the lines of disarming an explosive device or filling a cavity for a mountain lion.

Why do you think they sometimes call these things “retreats”?

This workshop/seminar/retreat was at the church in the sanctuary and lasted something like two hours in the morning and three in the afternoon. Cost maybe 20 bucks. A steal. Plus, free Chick-fil-a at lunchtime.

Glory!

Long story short is that it was actually really good. My spousal unit didn’t want to go as much as I did, but when it was over, we looked at what had been created during those five-ish hours and said, “It was good,” and the next day, the seventh day, we rested.

(I’m blatantly stealing material now.)

We got there 15 minutes early. They checked us for weapons — can’t be too careful at a marriage workshop — and we headed for the safety of the balcony.

It was understood that if either of us were asked to stand and say something (this is called “sharing” in the seminar game) or if we were asked to “break into small groups,” we would head for the door and try to salvage what was left of the day. I still get the shakes and shivers just thinking about being somewhere and the “facilitator” suggesting we “break into small groups.”

More like break into a fast trot.

And if I’m ever asked to say something on the spot in front of a big group, it would be “goodbye.” (At moments like this I always think of my precious granddaddy Teddy who, when the preacher asked him to pray one time, said, “I beg to be excused.” Then he bowed his head and waited for the preacher to bring in a pinch-hitter. Or pinch-prayer.)

Our leader that Saturday was a good one and an old pro, Gary Chapman, whose 1992 book The Five Love Languages: How to Express Heartfelt Commitment to Your Mate, has sold more than four million copies. He was funny and warm and the opposite of high-falutin’. He also used a couple of words (they had to do with sex) that I had never heard in a sanctuary, which made it worth the 20 bucks admission price right there.

He explained that the five love languages are words of affirmation, quality time, physical touch, acts of service, and receiving gifts. Find out your spouse’s main two languages and you become aware of how they wish to be loved, not how you think they wish to be loved or how you want to love them. At least that’s the way it works in theory.

Great concept once he helped us understand. Of course, we’re only human, so you can talk your spousal unit’s love language in sexy French and still be in trouble if you forget to pick up milk or diapers.

Ultimately, me writing about this is silly because I know more about how to fix a jet airplane engine than I do about most matters of the heart. But we have had no dustups around the house during the past 94 weeks of global madness, so maybe it’s luck but maybe we learned something that day.

If you’re interested at all, there is lots of info available online, plus Valentine’s Day is on the horizon, as if we needed something besides omicron and booster shots to worry about.

I can only wish you luck because while I could pretend to explain more, I don’t really know anything else so … I beg to be excused.

(P.S. My main love language turned out, Mr. Chapman said, to be a first: fried chicken. My backup was gravy. Two whole new love languages! Who knew?)

Contact Teddy at teddy@latech.edu

 

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Jackson Parish Recreation Department Director Tommy Smith is hoping the second time around for opening the 2022 JPRD Youth Basketball League is better than the first. Everything is in place for the eight different leagues of young boys and girls from the ages of 5-14 to play this Saturday, January 15th but that was the case last Saturday as well until COVID precautions caused for the cancellation of the games. Those games will now be played on March 5th. 

Schedule for Saturday, January 15th

J-H Middle School Gymnasium (B-boys, G- girls)
9:00 BULLS vs WARRIORS (5 & 6 B&G)
9:45 LAKERS vs CLIPPERS (5 & 6 B&G)
10:30 PELICANS  vs SPURS (5 & 6 B&G)
11:15 LAKERS vs BUCKS (5 & 6 B&G)
12:00 MERCURY vs ACES (7&8 G)
12:45 BLAZERS vs KINGS (7&8 B)
1:30 MERCURY vs STARS (7&8 G)
2:15 CELTICS vs HAWKS (7&8 B)
3:00 MAGIC THUNDER (7&8 B)

JHHS Girls Gym (B – boys, G – girls)
9:00 SPARKS vs MYSTIC (9&10 G)
9:45 SKY vs FEVER (9&10 G)
10:30 SPARKS vs STORM (9&10G)
11:15 RAPTORS vs KINGS (9&10 B)
12:00 THUNDER vs ROCKETS (9&10 B)
12:45 GRIZZLIES vs CELTICS (9&10 B)
1:30 WINGS vs LIBERTY (11 & 12 G)

JHHS Boys Gym (B- boys, G- girls)
9:00 SUNS vs MAVERICKS (11 & 12 B)
9:45 BULLS vs SPURS (11 & 12 B)
10:30 HORNETS vs LAKERS (11 & 12 B)
11:15 HORNETS vs BUCKS (11 & 12 B)
12:00 LYNX vs LIBERTY (11 & 12 G)
12:45 DREAM vs SUN (11 & 12 G)
1:30 CELTICS vs BLAZERS (13&14 B)
2:15 HEAT vs MAGIC (13 & 14 B)

 

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About a month ago, Jonesboro resident Tyler Harvey went on a hunt with friend and co-worker, Brent Mize, with the pair coming home with a small buck and doe. No big deal, right? Well, in case you are not familiar with the recap of that expedition that was published exclusively in the Jackson Parish Journal, considering that Harvey is legally blind it was quite the feat.

Instead of satisfying a desitre though, it only wet the appetite. You must understand. It wasn’t just a deer or even one with a few horns on it that the vivacious young man wanted. He had taken part in that several times over.

“I have always wanted to be able to put a mount on my wall,” said Harvey. “Now I’ve got one.”

It was once again Mize who gave the assist as he lined up the shot at the big 8-point buck before Harvey pulled the trigger. While the pair had already practiced and been successful in their tandem effort of Mize shouldering the gun and Harvey reaching around from behind to squeeze off the shot, this time it was a little different.

“It seemed like I was holding the crosshairs on forever,” said Mize. “It is really a strange feeling waiting and trying to anticipate when someone else is going to pull the trigger. Even though we have our routine down pretty pat, it is have not to flinch when you hear the smallest of noises.”

Still the buck dropped in it’s tracks.

“It was a neck shot,” laughed Mize. “I probably jerked a little but it dropped straight down, so all’s well that ends well.”

The pair got their opportunity for the “Wall-Hanger” thanks to David Greer who had heard about Harvey’s ambition for a trophy buck. Greer, who has several hundred acres south of Jonesboro that he dedicates to hunting for those with handicaps, invited the pair to take a stand on Saturday, January 8th.

“I was blown away by what David has done for the handicapped, ” said Mize. “What we hunted in wasn’t a stand but a big shooting house that had wheelchair ramps leading up to it and super easy to access. Even better was that we only were there for about an hour or so before that big boy stepped up.”

The best part of this is that it brings to mind more than just a young man who has overcome many obstacles in his life to enjoy a wonderful moment. This is a reminder of how good it is to have friends. How good it is to see people do something for others just for the pure joy of it. How good it is to live among people who know the true meaning of it is better to give than receive.

It is the kind of thing that just makes you proud to live where we do and among the people we call neighbors. Raise your glasses Jackson Parish. We are going to celebrate with a Harvey Wall Hanger!

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The Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce will hold their inuagural meeting of 2022 this Thursday, January 13th. This is an open meeting to all members that will begin at 6:00pm at Traina’s Bakery in Jonesboro. 

An assortment of ham, turkey or beef sandwiches, as well as, chips and dessert will be available for purchase for a price of $7.00. If you are planning on eating you are asked to notify director Wilda Smith at wsmithcoc@aol.com so that preparations can be made. 

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Several of Louisiana’s favorite cuisines will be available in Jonesboro soon with the opening of The Crawfish Basket, which will be located at 800 Pershing Hwy. This will be a “farm to table” family owned restaurant that offers boiled crawfish, shrimp, and crabs. 

Applications for employment are now being accepted for the positions of Boiler, Window Server and Cashier. 

Applicants must be respectful and carry a positive attitude, have their own means of transportation to and from the work place, be honest and take pride in their work, be able to work in a fast pace environment and be a team player.
Hours may vary depending on weather condition, holidays and season.

To apply call (337) 945-3234 or send email to: steincrawfish51@hotmail.com 

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The Caney Creek Bass Club opened their 2022 tournament schedule on Saturday, January 8th with a fundraising affair for the Weston High School baseball team. Eleven boats participated which raised $925.00 towards the WHS baseball teams trip to Iowa later this spring. 

Trey Bayles, who was fishing alone, came away as big winner with a five fish stringer that weighed 30.62 lbs. and included the 9.28 lb. Big Bass of the day. Dusty Nomey & Adam Ponder came in second with 19.36 lbs. follwed by a 17.31 lb. stringer by Bryan Faulkner & Bradley Barrett.

Another benefit fundraiser tournament to help send those young ball players to the Field of Dreams  will be held at a later date. Anyone who would like to donate to the teams trip can make payments payable to Weston High School. Please indicate in the memo this is for the baseball team trip.

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Buddy was born in 1936 in Lansing, Michigan. His father, Burton, was in the Army and the family moved often. In 1946, Buddy’s family moved to Riviera Beach, Florida, where Buddy’s father eventually became the chief of police. For most of his life, Buddy claimed to have been born in Georgia, so as not to be labeled what was the worst insult a southern boy could be called – Yankee.

Buddy was a man’s man. He was a jock. He was skilled at football. He earned scholarships for his outstanding performance in high school. He was named First Team All-State and All Southern as a fullback. Beginning in 1954, he played football for Florida State University. Buddy was also a frat boy. While at Florida State, he joined the Phi Delta Theta fraternity. Buddy partied with his frat buddies as long as it did not interfere with his attention to football. He was on track for a successful NFL career.

Buddy liked to drive fast, albeit in the family’s 4-door Buick sedan. On Christmas Eve of 1955, he was “barreling down” Bee Line Highway in the family’s Buick. Suddenly, in the rear-view mirror he saw the red flashing lights of a police car. He let off the throttle and pulled to the side of the highway. Buddy was somewhat relieved when he recognized the policeman. Officer John Kirk was a friend of his father. Officer Kirk, friendly but firmly, asked Buddy if he realized he was driving nearly 100 miles per hour. Buddy lied. Since officer Kirk knew Buddy’s father, he gave Buddy a break. Rather than writing the ticket for the nearly 100 miles per hour that Buddy was driving, Officer Kirk wrote it for 60 miles per hour. Even though, according to the ticket, Buddy was only driving a few miles over the speed limit, it was still a speeding ticket.

Buddy slowly pulled back onto the highway and began the drive of shame that most drivers experience after getting a speeding ticket. He considered several options as to the best way to tell his father about the speeding ticket. He was careful to drive the speed limit to avoid getting a second ticket. Buddy turned onto a side road and was driving near the Rinker Cement Company when he slammed into something.

A group of guys were stealing concrete blocks from the concrete company. They parked a flatbed truck in the middle of the road so they could quickly load the blocks and make a quick getaway. They had loaded a substantial number of blocks when Buddy crashed the car into the back of the flatbed. The Buick went underneath the bed of the truck. Buddy was lucky to have survived the initial crash. For reasons that he could never explain, Buddy dove underneath the Buick’s metal dash and rolled himself as tightly as he could into a ball. The entire load of concrete blocks fell from the flatbed truck onto the Buick. The weight of the concrete crushed the Buick and trapped Buddy inside.

Buddy waited for help. He was injured, though he was unsure how severely. He later said he was unsure how long he lay there waiting for help. At one point Buddy said, “I felt someone reach in and take the ring I got for playing on the All-Southern High School football team.” He never saw the ring again.

Finally, a policeman arrived and yelled, “Anybody in there?” Buddy recognized the voice as that of Lieutenant Clark Bibler, who worked for his father. He responded, “Clark, it’s me, Buddy.” Clark was surprised to hear the familiar voice. “Jesus Christ, Buddy, what are you doin’ in there?” Buddy’s only response was, “Don’t tell my dad!” Clark said, “I’ve got a feeling he’s gonna know.”

Clark kept Buddy talking while he tried to safely remove him from the crushed Buick. The jaws of life, a hydraulic tool which is used to pry open vehicles in which a victim may be trapped, had not been invented. Within moments, more officers arrived. They called for an ambulance and used pry bars to free Buddy. They helped Buddy from the crushed car, helped him lay down on the pavement and covered him with a blanket to await the ambulance. With adrenaline rushing through his body, Buddy did not realize the severity of his injuries. He stood up, coughed up blood, and blacked out.

When Buddy awoke, he was in the ambulance. He recognized the attendant as a high school classmate. Just before Buddy lost consciousness again, he asked the attendant to pray for him. When he regained consciousness, he was being wheeled into the hospital. Buddy instantly recognized the doctor on duty in the emergency room as Lynn Fort, his family’s doctor. As he was drifting back to unconsciousness, he heard the doctor say, “Prep him, this boy is dying.” The next sound Buddy heard was during the emergency surgery to remove his spleen. A nurse said, “We’re losing him!”

Buddy flatlined. He was dead. The doctor refused to give up and continued working to revive him. Buddy felt himself going down a tunnel toward a white light. Then, he heard himself saying, “F@#$ this! I’m going back!” Finally, due to Dr. Fort’s refusal to give up, Buddy’s heart began to beat again. The doctor and nurses continued with the emergency surgery which saved Buddy’s life. Buddy was lucky to be alive, but he was unable to continue his football career. Buddy’s dream to play in the NFL was crushed when the weight of the concrete blocks crushed his family’s Buick.

Had Buddy not wrecked the Buick, it is likely that he would have ended up with a career in professional football rather than the career we all know him for. Buddy began acting in movies but, because of his name, people confused him with Buddy Hackett. At his agent’s behest, Buddy reverted to a shortened version of his legal name, Burton Leon Reynolds, Jr. We all know Buddy as… Burt Reynolds.

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Alexandria Flowers (Jonesboro, LA) – Simple Battery, Failure to Appear on Headlight, Proof of Insurance and Expired Plates charge
Brandon L. Brown (Jonesboro, LA) – Insurance Fraud, Filing False Public Records, Malfeasance in Office
George T. Wyatt (Jonesboro, LA) – Insurance Fraud, Filing False Public Records, Malfeasance in Office
Dexstinei C. Snell (Jonesboro, LA) – Simiple Battery
Kristine Woodall (Chatham, LA) – Probation Warrant, Execution of Sentence
Harold Culver Jr. (Hodge, LA) – Criminal Trespass, Damage to Property
Chuckie Harvey (Jonesboro, LA) – Aggravated Assault with a Firearm (x2), 2nd degree Battery (x2)
Joseph Turner Jr. (Alexandria, LA) – Obscenity

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Legal Notice
Utilities, Inc. of Louisiana  – Spillway Water Supply

Utilities, Inc. of Louisiana Spillway Water Supply is currently in violation of the maximum contaminant level (MCL) for total trihalomethanes and haloacetic acids as set forth by the State [Part XII of the Louisiana State Sanitary Code (LAC 51:Xll)] and the Federal Primary Drinking Water Regulations (40 CFR Part 141).

The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals (LDHH) set drinking water standards and requires the disinfection of drinking water. Where disinfection is used in the treatment of drinking water, disinfectants combine with naturally occurring organic and inorganic matter present in water to form chemicals called disinfection byproducts (DBPs). EPA and LDHH set standards for controlling the levels of disinfectants and DBPs in drinking water, including trihalomethanes (THMs) and haloacetic acid (HAAs). Some people who drink water containing THMs in excess of the MCL over many years may experience problems with their liver, kidneys, or central nervous system, and may have an increased risk of getting cancer. Some people who drink water containing HAA5s in excess of the MCL over many years may have an increased risk of getting cancer.

In December 1998, EPA set enforceable drinking water standards for TTHMs at 80 parts per billion (ppb) and for HAA5 at 60 parts per billion (ppb) to reduce the risk of cancer or other adverse health effects. Compliance with the TTHMs and HAA5 standards for public water systems servicing less than 10,000 individuals initially became effective and enforceable on January 1, 2004. Compliance with the TTHMs standard is determine by calculating a locational running annual average (LRRA) of quarterly TTHMs sample results. Compliance calculations performed for the fourth quarter of 2021 show that the system’s current TTHMs LRAAs are 93 ppb at sample location DBP02 – 133 Suanna Road and 99 ppb at DBP03- 211 Spruce Drive. Thus, the system is currently in violation of TTHMs standards.

Utilities Inc of Louisiana continues to monitor and adjust storage tank capacity. UIL has begun construction to install the spray atomizer unit that will assist in the reduction of TTHM concentration. UIL has kept LDH informed of our progress.

Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail. If you have any questions, contact the UIL Compliance Administrator, Vicki Spence at 985-893-6646 – Opt. 2.

This is not an emergency. If it had been, you would have been notified immediately. EPA and LDH do not consider this violation to have any serious adverse health effects on human health as a result of short-term exposure; however, continued long-term exposure to TTHMs and HAA5 levels above the standard (e.g., 20 years of exposure) has the potential to have serious adverse effects on human health.

Legal Notice
Utilities, Inc. of Louisiana – Paradise Point Water Supply

Utilities, Inc. of Louisiana Paradise Point Water Supply is currently in violation of the maximum contaminant level (MCL) for total trihalomethanes and haloacetic acids as set forth by the State [Part XII of the Louisiana State Sanitary Code (LAC 51:Xll)] and the Federal Primary Drinking Water Regulations (40 CFR Part 141).

The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals (LDHH) set drinking water standards and requires the disinfection of drinking water. Where disinfection is used in the treatment of drinking water, disinfectants combine with naturally occurring organic and inorganic matter present in water to form chemicals called disinfection byproducts (DBPs). EPA and LDHH set standards for controlling the levels of disinfectants and DBPs in drinking water, including trihalomethanes (THMs) and haloacetic acid (HAAs). Some people who drink water containing THMs in excess of the MCL over many years may experience problems with their liver, kidneys, or central nervous system, and may have an increased risk of getting cancer. Some people who drink water containing HAA5s in excess of the MCL over many years may have an increased risk of getting cancer.

In December 1998, EPA set enforceable drinking water standards for TTHMs at 80 parts per billion (ppb) and for HAA5 at 60 parts per billion (ppb) to reduce the risk of cancer or other adverse health effects. Compliance with the TTHMs and HAA5 standards for public water systems servicing less than 10,000 individuals initially became effective and enforceable on January 1, 2004. Compliance with the TTHMs standard is determine by calculating a locational running annual average (LRRA) of quarterly TTHMs sample results. Compliance calculations performed for the fourth quarter of 2021 show that the system’s current TTHMs LRAAs are 86 ppb at sample location DBP01 – 119 Eden Drive. Thus, the system is currently in violation of TTHMs standards.

UIL relocated the flush valve to assist in reducing TTHMs levels and will continue monitoring. UIL has kept LDH informed of our progress

Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail. If you have any questions, contact the UIL Compliance Administrator at 985-893-6646 – Opt. 2.

This is not an emergency. If it had been, you would have been notified immediately. EPA and LDH do not consider this violation to have any serious adverse health effects on human health as a result of short-term exposure; however, continued long-term exposure to TTHMs and HAA5 levels above the standard (e.g., 20 years of exposure) has the potential to have serious adverse effects on human health.

Legal Notice
The Lotis Group – Vertical Bridge 500

 

“Vertical Bridge 500, LLC would like to place on notice the proposed construction of a 305’ (315’ including all appurtenances) self-support lattice tower known as Hodge (164.8 ground elevation). The FAA has required the use of marked/lighted in accordance with FAA Advisory circular 70/7460-1 M, Obstruction Marking and Lighting, a med-dual system-Chapters 4,8(M-Dual),&15, located at 32°15’58.92” north latitude and -92°43’35.77” west longitude near 392 Bank Street, Hodge, Louisiana 71247, ASR File #A1206029. The application for this proposed project can be viewed at http://www.fcc.gov/asr/applications by entering the ASR file number. If you have environmental concerns about the proposed structure, a Request for Environmental Review may be filed with the FCC at http://www.fcc.gov/asr/environmentalrequest or by writing to FCC Requests for Environmental Review, ATTN: Ramon Williams, 445 12th St SW, Washington, DC 20554. The FCC strongly encourages interested parties to file Requests for Environmental Review online. Requests for Environmental Review may only raise environmental concerns and must be filed within 30 days of the date that notice of the project is published on the FCC’s website.

Jackson Parish Library Board of Control Meeting Minutes
December 14, 2021

The Jackson Parish Library Board of Control met on Tuesday, December 14, 2021, at 4:30 p.m. at the
Jonesboro Branch of the Jackson Parish Library for the regular monthly board meeting. The meeting was
called to order by Mrs. Massey, Board President. Members present: Mrs. Cooper, Mrs. Nunn, Mrs.
Standley, Mrs. Jenkins, Mrs. Crawley, and Mrs. Massey. Also present was the Library Director, Mr.
Knox, and Assistant Director, Mrs. Robertson. Members absent: Mrs. Essmeier and Mr. Chatham.
Mrs. Standley led the invocation.
There being no other public comments, the Board proceeded with the proposed Agenda.
Mrs. Standley made the motion to approve the minutes for the October 25, 2021 regular board meeting.
Mrs. Cooper seconded. All yes. Motion carried.
Mrs. Crawley made the motion to accept the October and November financial reports. Mrs. Jenkins
seconded. All yes. Motion carried.
Mrs. Cooper made the motion to accept the October and November statistical reports. Mrs. Standley
seconded. All yes. Motion carried.
Mr. Wayne Coco gave a presentation on his final report and assessment for the Jackson Parish Library
System. Mrs. Massey made the motion to accept the final assessment as presented by Mr. Wayne Coco.
Mrs. Crawley seconded. All yes. Motion carried.
Mrs. Cooper made the motion to adopt the updated 2021 budget adjustments and the 2022 budget as
presented. Mrs. Standley seconded. All yes. Motion carried.
Mrs. Standley made the motion to authorize the Library Director to auction surplus items from the
presented 2021 surplus list with the Louisiana Property Assistance Agency and scrap items that do not
sell. Mrs. Cooper seconded. All yes. Motion carried.
Mrs. Crawley made the motion to confirm the hiring of Reanna Rowden part time for
Circulation/Reference Assistant I contingent upon pre-employment screening and successful completion
of probationary period. Mrs. Nunn seconded. All yes. Motion carried.
Mrs. Standley made the motion to adopt the updated 2021 Pay Schedule and employee levels. Mrs. Nunn
seconded. All yes. Motion carried.
Mrs. Standley made the motion to adopt the proposed holiday schedule for 2022. Mrs. Cooper seconded.
All yes. Motion carried.
Mrs. Massey made the motion to adopt the proposed Library Board meeting schedule for 2022. Mrs.
Cooper seconded. All yes. Motion carried.

Mrs. Nunn made the motion to appoint Ann Standley as backup representative of Trailblazer to assist
Judy Cooper when needed. Mrs. Jenkins seconded. All yes. Motion carried.
The Library Director let the Board know that there was an emergency preparedness exercise between
library staff, the Police Jury OHSEP Director/Operations Manager, Mr. Brad Roller, and a representative
from Homeland Security, Mr. Joshua Velasquez. The meeting went well and we were told that they were
very impressed with how much the staff considers safety a priority for everyone who visits the library
every day.
The Director reminded everyone that ethics and sexual harassment training was due by December 31.
Mrs. Cooper made the motion to adjourn the meeting. Mrs. Nunn seconded. All yes. Motion carried.

Jackson Parish School Board Meeting Minutes
January 10, 2022

The Jackson Parish School Board met in regular session at 9:00 a.m. on January 10, 2022 at Jackson Parish School Board, 315 Pershing Highway, Jonesboro, La.
The following were present for roll call: Dennis Clary, Wade McBride, Mary Saulters, Gloria Davis, Calvin Waggoner, Rickey McBride and Gerry Mims.

Dennis Clary gave the Invocation.

Wade McBride led in the Pledge of Allegiance.

The meeting was called to order by President Gloria Davis.

A motion was made by Mary Saulters, seconded by Wade McBride and carried to approve the minutes as presented from the regular scheduled meeting held on December 6, 2021.

A motion was made by Calvin Waggoner, seconded by Dennis Clary and carried to approve appointing Kristi Bass to serve on the Jackson Parish Sales Tax Board – January 1, 2022 – December 31, 2022. Gerry Mims voted nay.

Mary Saulters reported to the Board on the meeting of the Executive Finance Committee held prior to the Board meeting.

A motion was made by Dennis Clary, seconded by Rickey McBride and carried to approve for payment the following bills: General Fund, Federal Program, Food Service, Sales Tax, Special Education, District Maintenance bills.

A motion was made by Gerry Mims, seconded by Calvin Waggoner and carried to approve extending the ending date to June 30, 2022 for the ten (10) Covid days granted to employees, to be paid from Strong Start and/or ESSERS. This will be in effect as long as funds are available.

A motion was made by Rickey McBride, seconded by Gerry Mims and carried to approve payment to Presidio in the amount of $33,481.77 for Wi-Fi outdoor access at all schools, to be paid from ESSERS III.

A motion was made by Dennis Clary, seconded by Rickey McBride and carried to approve declaring as surplus the Fellows Paper Shredder, Model 485CI at the Central Office.

A motion was made by Wade McBride, seconded by Gerry Mims and carried to approve declaring as surplus a 3235C Gang Mow – John Deere mower, Serial #TC32350040498 to be sold to the Jackson Parish Recreation Department at a cost of $4,000.00. Monies to be returned to the Jonesboro Hodge football account.

Presentation of Monthly Financial Report by Kristi Bass, Business Manager.

Rickey McBride reported to the Board on the meeting of the Policy Committee held prior to the Board meeting.

A motion was made by Dennis Clary, seconded by Mary Saulters and carried to approve revised policy for:

• Public School Choice JBCE

Superintendent’s Comments were given at this time.

A motion was made by Rickey McBride, seconded by Mary Saulters and carried to adjourn at 9:43 a.m.

Jackson Parish Recreation District Board Meeting Minutes
December 21, 2021

A budget hearing for the Jackson Parish Recreation District was held on Tuesday, December 21, 2021 at 6:00pm followed by a special call meeting at 6:30pm in the Jackson Parish Golf Course Banquet Room, 524 Club House Drive, Jonesboro, Louisiana. Members Present: Mr. Ricky Cash, Mr. Jeff Hairston, Mr. Rodney Potts and Mr. Chris Womack. Absent: Mr. Brent Barnett, Mr. Brandon Lamkin and
Mr. Sullivan Stevens.

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

Mr. Cash opened floor for the 2022 public budget hearing.

Mr. Cash closed the 2022 public budget hearing with no public comments.

Mr. Cash opened the floor for public comments. There were no public comments.

Motion Mr. Potts seconded Mr. Womack to approve minutes (November). All in favor. Motion carried.

Motion Mr. Womack seconded Mr. Cash to adopt the 2022 budget. All in favor. Motion carried.

Mr. Smith gave board update on some of the ongoing programs at the sports complex including basketball.

Motion Mr. Potts seconded Mr. Hairston to approve purchase of finishing mower from Jonesboro-Hodge High School in the amount of $4000. All in favor. Motion carried.

Motion Mr. Potts seconded Mr. Womack to accept timber bid from DG&E Logging, Inc. All in favor. Motion carried.

Motion Mr. Womack seconded Mr. Potts to approve purchase of basketball and cheerleader uniforms. All in favor. Motion carried.

Next board meeting is scheduled for Monday, January 17, 2022 at 6:00p.m. in the Jackson Parish Golf Course Banquet Room, Jonesboro.

Motion Mr. Hairston seconded Mr. Womack to adjourn meeting. All in favor. Motion carried.

 

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(KTVE/KARD)–Recently a Jonesboro Fire Chief Brandon Brown and Jackson Parish Sheriff Deputy George Wyatt were arrested for insurance fraud. As a follow up, the KTVE/KARD television station out of Monroe interviewed Jackson Parish Sheriff Andy Brown.

Brown and Wyatt were both arrested after filing a false public record where they listed themselves as the drivers of two Jonesboro fire vehicles that were involved in a wreck. After investigating the wreck, authorities found that brown’s son was the driver of one of the vehicles involved in the crash. Sheriff Brown told reporter Bryce Oselen that no one is above the law and says the department will continue to hold citizens and law enforcement accountable for their actions.

“You know, we are to be held to a higher standard. He did wrong, and he needed to go. That is the feeling of this department, “said Brown of the JPSO Deputy. “If it comes up again under my watch, the same thing will happen, and the guys know that. I think this was something that these guys didn’t think would be found out and it was, and we dealt with it.”

To view the entire interview that was aired on January 5th, click here: https://www.myarklamiss.com/news/top-stories/two-jackson-parish-first-responders-arrested-for-insurance-fraud/

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Devontae Mozee left a legacy that will be remembed at Jonesboro-Hodge High School for years to come. Xavier Atkins is just beginning to write his. Both were instrumental in capping off one of the better football seasons in JHHS history. Both were rewared by being selected to Class 2A, All-State First Team by the 2020-21 Louisiana Sports Writers Association.

Neither choice was really a surprise although the fact that Atkins didn’t win the Defensive Player of the Year Award was. Atkins led the nation in solo stops, led the state in tackles, solo stops and tackles for a loss and won numerous weekly awards as Player of the Week by media outlets. Mozee intercepted six passes this year and returned four for touchdowns, including a game changing 99 yard jaunt against North Caddo that gave the Tigers a share of the District 1-2A championship. 

Defensive End, Javeon Andrews and Quarterback, Tydre Malone received honorable mention designation. After leading JHHS to an 11-4 record and a Class 2A state semifinal berth, head coach Terrance Blankenship was given special consideration as a coach. 

State champion Many High swept the individual Player of the Year awards with London Williams being Offensive MVP and Tackett Curtiss winning Defensive MVP. Wayne Stein, who led St. Charles Catholic to the Division III state championship was named Coach of the Year. 

CLASS 2A ALL-STATE FIRST TEAM

Offense

Pos Player School Ht. Wt. Cl

WR Omarion Miller North Caddo 6-2 196 Jr.

WR Antron Williams Red River 6-5 190 Sr.

TE Will Randle Newman 6-4 235 Jr.

OL Terry Augustine Avoyelles 6-8 400 Sr.

OL Jakorey Jones Many 6-3 260 Sr.

OL Fitzgerald West Lafayette Christian 6-2 325 Sr.

OL Ashanti Cole Red River 6-4 320 Sr.

OL Bo Bordelon Newman 6-6 280 Sr.

QB Zintayvious Smith Red River 5-11 175 Sr,

RB London Williams Many 5-10 173 Sr.

RB Grant Ducote Rosepine 5-10 205 Jr.

RB Kelvin Black North Caddo 5-10 205 Jr.

PK Carter Chauvin St. Charles 5-9 155 Sr.

ATH Ethan Frey Rosepine 6-5 225 Sr.

Defense

Pos Player School Ht. Wt. Cl

DL Jalen Smith Avoyelles 6-5 220 Sr.

DL Maxie Baudoin Ascension Episcopal 6-3 290 Sr.

DL Russell Davis Catholic-NI 6-2 205 Sr.

DL Moses Clark St. Charles 5-8 3 05 Sr.

LB Kaiden Jones St. Charles 6-0 215 Sr.

LB Xavier Atkins Jonesboro-Hodge 6-1 185 So.

LB David Cresson Episcopal 6-0 185 Sr.

LB Javae Gilmore Amite 6-5 190 Sr.

DB Tackett Curtis Many 6-2 215 Jr.

DB DeVontae Mozee Jonesboro-Hodge 6-1 175 Sr.

DB Jordan Allen Lafayette Christian 5-11 182 Sr.

DB Brylan Green Lafayette Christian 5-9 160 Sr.

P Liam Adamson Amite 5-5 165 Sr.

RS Earl Jackson Amite 5-11 185 Sr.

 

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It is unfortunate that the Town’s Fire Chief has been accused of these allegations. In spite of the seriousness of the allegations, it is my position, as Mayor, to operate from the premise that all accused are innocent until proven guilty.

I would hope that people who are inclined to make premature judgement would give credence to our judicial system and recognize that every citizen is entitled to due process according to law. Neither Chief Brown nor the Town of Jonesboro received any monetary benefit from his actions and it does not appear that there was any intent to violate law which would constitute malfeasance.

For these reasons, the Town stands with and beside Fire Chief, Brandon Brown and prays that the scrutiny of all of the evidence will vindicate him.

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A new year will bring a new cast of officers for the Jackson Parish Police Jury as Board Members will elect a new President and Vice-President for 2022 as well as appointing the Secretary/Treasurer. The action that leads a relatively short agenda will take place at 5:30pm on Monday, January 10th at the Charles H. Garrett Community Center located at 182 Industrial Drive in Jonesboro. 

In additional action the board will consider organization itemsinsurance proposals and material bids for 2022 as well as looking at a proposal for pre-disaster emergency debris hauling.  Board appointments for the new year is expected to be learned as well as the department head reports and 2022 Police Jury Holiday Schedule.

Agenda for 1/10/2022 meeting 

Election of 2022 Officers
1. Election of 2022 Officers (roll call votes)
a. Nominees and Election of President
b. Nominees and Election of Vice President
* Notification of 2022 Committees and assignments will be sent out electronically once established by the 2022 President
Annual Organization Items
2. Consider and act on setting the 2022 regular meeting date, time, and location
3. Consider and act on adopting a resolution authorizing the 2022 President and Vice
President signatures be added to the signature cards for bank accounts at Jonesboro State Bank and authorize co-signatures with the Payroll and Accounts Payable Clerks in the absence of the Secretary-Treasurer
4. Consider and act on appointment of the Secretary-Treasurer position
5. Consider and act on adopting a resolution to authorize the Secretary-Treasurer to sign documents and pay bills on behalf of the Jackson Parish Police Jury
6. Consider and act on adoption of the 2022 Police Jury Holiday Schedule
Approve Minutes
7. Adopt the minutes of the December 13th and 29th Jury Meetings, monthly purchase orders, and the payment of all bills
Management Reports
8. OEP Director Report – Mr. Brad Roller
9. Operations Manager Report – Mr. Brad Roller
10. Road Superintendent Report – Mr. Jody Stuckey
a. Accept the Emergency/Off-Schedule Report
11. Solid Waste Superintendent Report – Mr. Robin Sessions
12. Financial Report – Ms. Gina Thomas
(report includes budget to actual comparisons for all funds)
Other Business
13. Engineering Report – Mr. Paul Riley, The Riley Co. of Louisiana
14. Consider and act on accepting the 2022 insurance proposals from Travelers and LUBA
15. Consider and act on accepting the 2022 material bids for fuel/oil and cold mix
16. Consider and act on authorizing a Request for Proposal for pre-disaster emergency debris hauling
17. Consider and act on Parish Board Appointments
18. Consider and act on nuisance complaint on Ed Barnes Road
19. Consider and act, if necessary, on request from the Jackson Parish Correctional Center for use of the Community Center parking lot for bus training
Announcements & Notifications
Juror Comment

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This has been a typical deer season where hunters downing trophy bucks have sometimestraveled across the state to hunting leases or tracts of public land in the thousands of acres. Manyhave been successful as well bringing down big bucks with rocking-chair headgear.

Ross Wigginton, Ferriday, has done it entirely differently. The 25 year old doesn’t belongto hunting clubs nor does he travel to nearest public lands to deer hunt. He takes care of businesson his own property near Ferriday in Concordia Parish.

His “own property” consists of his back yard containing less than one acre. Wigginton lives near the banks of the Tensas River with a tract of woods near the river and a levee separating his yard from the river.

“I like to take a doe for the freezer if possible so I put out corn in my yard. I also hung up a trail camera to keep up with any deer that might visit my corn pile,” Wigginton said.

On the morning of November 14, Wigginton got up early, pulled up a chair on his back porch to see if something might show up. His camera had shown the images of a huge buck that had visited the corn a few times and always at night. In the back of his mind, he hoped he would have a chance at the buck but had his doubts in that the buck only showed up at night.

“At first, a doe stepped out and I could make her out even though it wasn’t daylight yet. I watched her eat and then she walked off. I didn’t shoot because it was not legal shooting time yet,” he said.

While it was still dark, Wigginton could hear a deer walking in the woods over the levee and to his surprise, the big buck he had on camera accompanied by two smaller bucks, hopped over the levee and walked up to within 20 yards of where he was sitting. It was just starting to get light enough to shoot as he watched the buck turn and begin walking away. When it got to 40 yards, the buck turned broadside and Wigginton let a bolt fly from his Raven crossbow.

“When I shot, he kicked up real good so I knew I had made a good shot. I gave him a few minutes before walking over to where he was standing when I shot and could only find a couple of pin-sized drops of blood. I was starting to worry that I had made a bad shot and would never see the buck again,” Wigginton recalled.

Wiggonton continued looking around the area and at about 70 yards, excitement welled up when he spotted antlers. The buck was down for good.

“The first thing I did was go wake up my wife, told her what I had done and we celebrated a bit. I dragged the buck to the levee and backed my truck up so I could slide him in. There was no way I would have been able otherwise to load him up because of the size. He weighed 270 pounds,” he said.

The buck sported a massive and gnarled rack containing 17 scorable points with an extra tine growing off the base, a tine that measured over 11 inches. Wigginton took the buck to Simmons Sporting Goods in Bastrop to be measured and entered into that store’s big buck contest. Main beams were over 24 inches each, bases were 5 ½ inches each and inside spread was 19 3/8 inches. The rack was measured at an astounding 189 7/8 inches, placing the buck at the top of the non-typical archery category.

“While I was sitting on the porch watching the buck and waiting for daylight,” Wigginton said, “I’m just glad my wife didn’t come to the door and tell me coffee was ready.”

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FISHING REPORT

BLACK BAYOU – Fishing is slow. No report this week. Contact Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707 for latest information.
OUACHITA RIVER – Bass are slow, not many reporting. Crappie have been best fishing around sunken brush and stumps in the river in the deeper holes. For latest information, contact the Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707.
LAKE D’ARBONNE – Crappie fishing has slowed down a bit but some are still being caught fishing in the deeper channels 18 feet deep in 20-25 foot water. Jigs and shiners are producing fair catches. Bass are in the deeper holes in the channel and have been fair on soft plastics and jigs. 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 – Catfishing has been fair on night crawlers and cold worms. Crappie fishing has been best out from the State Park on jigs and shiners and at night around the lighted docks. Bass fishing has been fair on soft plastics. No report on bream. For latest information, call Misty at Kel’s Cove at 331-2730 or Terzia Tackle at 278-4498.
CANEY LAKE – Bass fishing has been best fishing deep water with deep diving crank baits and soft plastics picking up a few with the largest being around 7 pounds. Crappie fishing has been best just out from the dam fishing jigs or shiners near the bottom in 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.
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 on a rise. Best fishing this week has been far barfish with lots of them being caught. A few bass were reported and crappie are slow. For information, call Surplus City Landing at 318/467-2259.

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Employees of the Jackson Parish School System will have 10 Covid days granted to them through June 30, 2022. This is an extension of the current Covid absence policy in place and stay in effect as long as funds that are paid for from Strong Start and/or ESSERS is available.

In other action that will take place at the regularly scheduled monthly meeting that will be held at 9:00am on Monday, January 10th, at the Meeting Room of the Jackson Parish School Board Central Office located at 315 Pershing Hwy in Jonesboro.

The Board of Gerry Mims, Ricky McBride, Wade McBride, Dennis Clary, Gloria Davis, Mary Saulters and newly elected president Calvin Waggoner will also consider declaring as surplus a 3235C Gang Mow – John Deere mower, Serial TC32350040498 to be sold to the Jackson Parish Recreation Department at acost of $4,000.00. Monies are to be returned the Jonesboro Hodge football account.

In final action, Finance Manager Kristi Bass is expected to be appointed to serve on the Jackson Parish Sales Tax Board for 2022 and Wi-Fi outdoor access for all schools will be considered. Approving a Public School Choice JBCE revised policy will also be discussed.