PUBLIC NOTICE

The Jackson Parish Police Jury is accepting applications for the position of Secretary-Treasurer.

Applicants must be knowledgeable and proficient in performing all accounting functions in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles, preparation of consolidated budgets, and responsible for compliance with procedures and policies under the jurisdiction of the Louisiana Legislative Auditor. The Secretary-Treasurer is required to attend all official Police Jury and committee meetings, is responsible for preparing the official minutes of all meetings for publication and adoption and is responsible for all correspondence conducted on behalf of the Jackson Parish Police Jury.

Minimum Requirements:
Four (4) year college degree in Accounting/Finance; CPA certification preferred; five (5) years direct experience in management and supervision; advanced computer and data processing skills with expertise in Microsoft Office Suite required; proficient in training staff; must be a resident of Jackson Parish or be willing to re-locate.

Resumes and job applications may be hand-delivered or mailed in a SEALED ENVELOPE marked “Application for Secretary-Treasurer” to the Jackson Parish Police Jury Administrative Building, 160 Industrial Drive, Jonesboro, LA 71251. No electronic submissions will be accepted. A detailed job description can be obtained from Police Jury Office or from our website: www.jacksonparishpolicejury.org.

TOWN OF JONESBORO BOARD OF ALDERMEN REGULAR MONTHLY MEETING MINUTES
February 11, 2022

Meeting was called to order by Mayor L. Thompson. The meeting was held via conference call.
Roll call established a quorum with the following council members on the call: James Ginn, Robbie Siadek, Aaron Stringer, Devin Flowers, Nia Johnson
Invocation was led by Stringer.
Pledge of Allegiance was led by Siadek.
There were no public comments.
The minutes of January 11, 2022 regular meeting were approved on a motion by Flowers, second by Siadek, unanimously approved.
The minutes of January 31, 2022 special call meeting, were approved on a motion by Johnson, second by Flowers, unanimous approval.
Approval of Agenda – motion by Stringer, second by Siadek, unanimous approval.
Mayor Thompson suggested the following amendments to the agenda: add as item 8A- amend agenda; 8B, adopt amended agenda, 9A, approval of January/February bills; 9B, Consider new council meeting date and 11A, redistricting resolution. Stringer asked to add hiring of a part-time employee to the police department to replace Matthew Nash.
A motion to approve and adopt the amended agenda was made by Stringer, second by Siadek, unanimously approved.
Approval of December financials – the December financials have not been updated. Siadek questioned whether or not the updates had been completed. Stringer moved to table the December financials until they could be assured that the information was accurate. Mayor Thompson indicated he thought the council might want to wait until the next meeting when he believes the updates should have been made. Motion to table by Stringer.
Approval of January financials – some discussion ensued relative to the accuracy of the January numbers since the December numbers were not yet completed. Ginn questioned what the issues were with the financials and Mayor Thompson explained that there were expense items on the report which had not been included in the correct classification. They are working on correcting the information so that we will have good numbers moving foarward. As soon as they have finished, we will send the reports to the council. Motion to table by Stringer.
The following resolutions inform the La DEQ of actions taken by the town.
The resolutions were considered by council in one action:
Resolution 2002-04 – South Pond
Resolution 2002-05 – North Pond
Resolution 2002-06 – East Pond
Stringer moved to approve all resolutions (4, 5, 6), second by Flowers, no discussion, motion carried.
DATA Center presentation of redistricting plan – Cedric Floyd- Mr. Floyd made a presentation to the council. He indicated the 2020 Census numbers have been released indicating a slight population loss for the Town of Jonesboro (decrease of 596 people). Floyd indicated he would be doing a more detailed presentation as the project progresses.
On a motion by Flowers, second by Siadek, the council approved Data Center to conduct the redistricting study for the Town of Jonesboro.
Police Department:
Resignation of full-time dispatcher, LaSecret Jones effective 02/08/2022 accepted on a motion by Siadek, second by Stringer, unanimously approved.
Matthew Nash – being moved from part-time to full-time dispatcher to replace LaSecret Jones. On a motion by Siadek, second by Stringer, unanimously approved.
Stringer indicated that the police department wants to hire Robrecia Goree part-time to replace M. Nash. Stringer moved to hire Goree, second by Ginn, motion carried.

After reviewing the bills, questions were raised about what certain items were. The item relating to Twin City Transmission could not be identified as to what the purchase involved, therefore, Siadek moved to table approval of the bills until the financials are corrected.
Discussion ensued regarding changing the meeting date of the council. B. Ledbetter informed that the Police Jury had decided to move their meeting to the third Tuesday of the month, therefore, there would be no need to change the meeting date of the Town Council. Meetings will remain on the second Tuesday of the month for the Town Council.
Report of Compliance Officer – B. Brown enumerated several issues he had dealt with over the course of the month relating to the Town’s nuisance policy. The response from the citizens was favorable as most of the property owners are working to get the properties into compliance.
Department head reports (reports submitted to council in packets)
1. Mayor’s update – briefed the council on the situation with the CPA firm and the attempts to hire an in house accountant. The current CPA has agreed to stay on with the town and train the in-house person. This will be a trial basis going forward.
2. Council’s comments – Ginn indicated he wants to see the financials being completely accurate as soon as soon as possible. Siadek indicted the challenge of having the meeting by phone, Flowers said God bless the town. There were no other comments.
3. Mayor’s comments – talked about the challenge of the call and indicated we would meet in person at the next meeting.
4. Adjournment motion by Flowers, second by Siadek.

JACKSON PARISH POLICE JURY MONTHLY MEETING MINUTES
February 8, 2022

The Jackson Parish Police Jury met in regular session on Tuesday, February 8, 2022, at 5:30 PM in the Dr. Charles H. Garrett Community Center, 182 Industrial Drive, Jonesboro, Louisiana. Members Present: Mr. Lewis Chatham, Ms. Amy Magee, Mr. John McCarty, Ms. Tarneshala Cowans, and Mr. Lynn Treadway. Absent: Mr. Todd Culpepper and Ms. Regina Rowe. Also present, Mr. Darrell Avery, Assistant D.A.

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

The President opened the floor for public comments, and they were heard.

Motion Ms. Magee, seconded Mr. Chatham to amend the agenda to discuss and act, if necessary, on moving the 2022 Regular Meeting date. The President called for public comments, there were none. Motion carried unanimously and the item was added as #15 b.

The President moved to the approval of minutes.
Motion Ms. Magee, seconded Mr. Chatham to adopt the minutes of the January 10th Jury Meeting, monthly purchase orders, and the payment of all bills. Motion carried.

The President moved to Committee Reports.
Motion Ms. Magee, seconded Mr. Chatham to adopt the following minutes from the January 24th Road Committee meeting. Motion carried.

Road Committee
January 24, 2022

The Road Committee met Monday, January 24, 2022, at 5:00 PM in The Nathaniel Zeno Jr. Meeting Room, Jackson Parish Police Jury Administrative Building, 160 Industrial Drive, Jonesboro, Louisiana. Members Present: Mr. Lewis Chatham, Ms. Amy Magee, and Mr. Lynn Treadway. Absent: none. Also present: Brad Roller, Operations Manager and Jody Stuckey, Road Superintendent.

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

There were no public comments.

The Committee reviewed the presented options for the 2022 Road Project along with the budget.
Motion Mr. Treadway, seconded Mr. Chatham to recommend the Jury approve the Option D Asphaltic Concrete Program only and adopt the 3-year plan. Motion carried.

The Committee reviewed the list of roads by-district that had been recommended for public hearing or other action. Ms. Magee stated no further action needed to be taken by the Committee since the recommendations were already made.

The Committee discussed other issues and concerns with the Road Department.

The date of the next Road Committee was tentatively set for Thursday, February 17th at 5:00 PM.

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

Motion Mr. Chatham, seconded Ms. Magee to amend the 2022 Road Maintenance Program as presented. Motion caried.

Motion Ms. Magee, seconded Mr. McCarty to adopt the 3-year road program as presented. Motion carried.

Motion Mr. Chatham, seconded Ms. Magee to adopt the following minutes from the January 28th Finance Committee meeting. Motion carried.

Finance Committee
January 28, 2022

The Finance Committee met Friday, January 28, 2022, at 11:00 AM in The Nathanial Zeno Jr. Meeting Room of the Jackson Parish Police Jury Administrative Building, 160 Industrial Drive, Jonesboro, Louisiana. Members present: Mr. John McCarty and Ms. Regina Rowe. Absent: Mr. Lynn Treadway.

In the absence of the Chair, Ms. Rowe called the meeting to order. Mr. McCarty gave the invocation and Ms. Rowe led in the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance.

There were no public comments.

The Secretary-Treasurer reviewed the month-to-date financials, purchase orders, and year-to-date budget. The Committee reviewed the fund balances.

Motion Ms. Rowe, seconded Mr. McCarty to amend the agenda to include discussion and recommendation on an appropriation to the Sparta Groundwater Commission. Motion carried unanimously and the item was added to the agenda as #6.

The Committee reviewed the request and the presented financials from the Jackson Parish Museum and Fine Arts Association. Ms. Barbara Johnson and Ms. Wilda Smith were invited to discuss.
Motion Mr. McCarty, seconded Ms. Rowe to recommend the Jury amend the budget to include an appropriation of $7,000 to fund the Jackson Parish Museum and Fine Arts Association. Motion carried.

The Committee reviewed the request from the Clerk of Court for additional shelving.
Motion Mr. McCarty, seconded Ms. Rowe to recommend the Jury amend the budget to purchase two shelving units for $740 for the Clerk of Court. Motion carried.

The Committee reviewed the request to adopt an ordinance for credit card purchases and payments processed by the Police Jury.
Motion Ms. Rowe, seconded Mr. McCarty to recommend the Jury authorize an ordinance establishing a service charge (convenience fee) for credit card use. Motion carried.

The Committee reviewed the expiration dates for the Health Unit and Council on Aging property taxes. Ms. Rowe requested communication with the Council on Aging to determine the date for the renewal election. No action was taken at this time.

Motion Ms. Rowe, seconded Mr. McCarty to recommend the Jury amend the budget to include an appropriation of $1,500 for the Sparta Groundwater Commission. Motion carried.

The date and time for the next Finance Committee was not set at this time.

Motion Mr. McCarty, seconded Ms. Rowe to adjourn. Motion carried.

The Jury discussed the recommended appropriation for the Jackson Parish Museum and Fine Arts Association. Ms. Magee left the meeting. Ms. Magee returned to the meeting.
Motion Mr. McCarty, seconded Ms. Cowans to table action on the recommendation to amend the budget to include an appropriation of $7,000 to fund the Jackson Parish Museum and Fine Arts Association. Motion carried.

Motion Ms. Magee, seconded Mr. Chatham to amend the budget to purchase two shelving units for $740 for the Clerk of Court. Motion carried.

Motion Mr. Chatham, seconded Mr. McCarty to authorize an ordinance establishing a service charge/convenience fee for credit card use. Motion carried.

The President called for monthly management reports.
Mr. Brad Roller, OEP Director and Operations Manager, gave the January 2022 OEP and Operations Manager Reports.

Mr. Jody Stuckey, Road Superintendent, presented the January 2022 Road report noting that $5,498.18 had been spent on emergency call-outs/off-schedule work.
Motion Ms. Magee, seconded Mr. McCarty to accept the January 2022 emergency/off-schedule reports. Motion carried.

Mr. Robin Session, Solid Waste Superintendent, presented the January 2022 Solid Waste report.

Ms. Gina Thomas, Parish Administrator, gave the January 2022 Financial Report noting the budget to actual comparisons and discussed the accrual process.

The President moved on to Other Business.
Mr. Paul Riley, Riley Company of Louisiana, Inc. gave the January 2022 Engineering Report. He discussed the timelines for the 2022 Road Project.

Motion Ms. Magee, seconded Mr. Chatham to authorize the President to sign the Letter of Assurances for the Uniform Relocation Assistance & Real Property Act. Motion carried.

Motion Mr. Chatham, seconded Ms. Magee to move the Regular Meeting date to the 3rd Tuesday of each month. No change was made to the location and time. Motion carried.

Motion Mr. Chatham, seconded Mr. McCarty to table action on items #16 a. through #16 o. Motion carried with Ms. Magee voting “Nay.”

Motion Ms. Magee, seconded Mr. Chatham to authorize the Secretary-Treasurer to submit the Louisiana Compliance Questionnaire and audit engagement letter for the 2021 audit. Motion carried.

Motion Ms. Magee, seconded Mr. Chatham to approve the requests from the LSU Ag Center for use of the Community Center in accordance with the existing CEA. Motion carried.

The Jury reviewed Parish Board Appointments.
Motion Ms. Magee, seconded Mr. McCarty to take action on the following parish board members:
• Accept the resignation of George Tim Wyatt from the Ambulance Board effective 1/11/2022.
• Appoint Deidra Hollis to complete the term on the Ambulance Board ending 12/31/2025.
• Re-appoint Daniel Ponder to the Watershed Commission for a 4-year term ending 12/31/2025.
• Re-appoint Robbie Howard to the Hodge Fire Board for a 1-year term ending 12/31/2022.
• Re-appoint Wesley Harvey to the Hodge Fire Board for a 2-year term ending 12/31/2023.
Motion carried.

There were no announcements or notifications.
The President opened the floor for Juror comments.

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

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Judi Toms Reed
February 3, 1955 – February 15, 2022

Ms. Judi Toms Reed was born on February 3, 1955, in Hodge, La. to Tom Roy and Nita Jean Toms. She passed away on Tuesday, February 15, 2022, in Monroe, LA.

Judi lived most of her life in Jackson Parish. Judi was a loving daughter, sister, aunt, & friend. Most importantly, she was an amazing ‘Nonna’ or ‘Nonnie’ for her grandchildren & great grandchildren!

Judi was preceded in death by her father, Tom Roy Toms, her mother, Nita Jean Toms, 3 brothers, Jody Toms, Mitchel Roy Toms, Tommy Toms, 2 sisters, Karon Sue Hill & Vicki Lynn Lashley, daughter, Christan Danielle Askin, and one great granddaughter, Jaslyn Coleman.

Those left to cherish her memory are her daughter, Alechia Parker and husband Berlin ‘Gus’, son, Jordy Askin, two brothers, Cody Toms and wife Margaret, Timmy Toms, sister, Tammy Toms Cox and husband Greg, grandchildren, Jaimie, Britnie, Kiah, Amiah, & Avani and a host of great grandchildren who adore her!

Judi was vivacious and had a genuine personality that was full of life and authentic. She was loyal and loving. Judi was funny! She loved to tell a story and if you missed it, don’t worry, she would tell it again and again! Judi was protective of everyone she cared about, especially those great grandbabies! She was a constant friend, always calling to check on us or just to say, “hey, what’s up?”

 

Judi loved us all unconditionally with understanding and without judgement & she forgave willingly. Her smile, her stories, her jokes & her laugh were irreplaceable. Her hugs were warm and made us feel at home. Each of us had our own special relationship with her. Judi was a wonderful blessing to us all! She made a mark on each of us that we will carry forever!

Funeral services will be held at 3:00pm on Sunday, February 20th at North Hodge Assembly of God in Hodge, LA. Interment will follow at the Liberty Hill Cemetery in Bienville, LA. Pallbearers are Thomas Kennedy, Joshua Hill, Ethan Lashley, Lukas Cross, Nicholas Williams, Todd Abercrombie, Shane Wigley and Mark Treadway. 

Patricia Faye Sullivan
April 3, 1936 – February 16, 2022

Patricia Faye (Rogers) Sullivan of Saline passed away on Wednesday, February 16, 2022, in Shreveport, Louisiana. She was a second-grade teacher at Saline High School for thirty-five years and enjoyed being the cheerleader sponsor. In her later years she was elected several times to serve as a councilwoman for the town of Saline.

Mrs. Sullivan loved her family and was especially fond of her thirty grandchildren and great grandchildren and supported them in everything they did. Patricia’s two favorite hobbies were driving her car and reading. Her family said it was not uncommon for her to read all night, if she had a very good book in hand. Considered a Saline High School Bobcat “Super-fan”, Mrs. Sullivan not only attended the home games, but was often seen at away games pulling for her team.

Mrs. Sullivan is survived by her children, Deryl Sullivan & wife Gail, Keith Sullivan & wife Sandy, Karen Bradford & husband Phillip; Sister, Jenine Thomas; seven grandchildren; 23 great grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Talbert E. Sullivan; daughter, Linda Kaye Sullivan; parents, Cason Caskey Rogers and Esther Gertrude (Holman) Rogers; and niece, Deann Bartlett.

Friends may visit with the family on Sunday, February 20, 2022, from 1 pm until 2:30 pm at Magnolia Baptist Church in Saline. The funeral service will follow at 2:30 pm. Interment will be in the Old Saline Baptist Church Cemetery.

Ernest Donald “Donnie” Searcy
December 10, 1962 – February 14, 2022

Mr. Donnie Searcy passed away on Monday, February 14, 2022, at his home in Chatham, Louisiana, surrounded by loved ones. He served in the United States Army and worked many years as a roughneck in the oil industry.

Donnie loved riding Harley Davidson motorcycles and horses and he was seldom seen when he was not wearing cowboy boots and a Stetson. He loved his family, especially his grandchildren and could often be found spending time with family on “Searcy Hill”. Donnie also enjoyed hunting and fishing. There is one thing that Donny’s family and friends all agree upon, Donnie always told you exactly what he was thinking.

Mr. Searcy is survived by his wife, Deborah Gayle; children, Ashley Pennington, Christy Durbin, Kasey Turner; step children, Brian Evans, G.W. Horton, Cristal Coody, April Presley, Brandy Presley, Shane Horton; mother, Jackie Searcy; sister, Debra Abedi; brothers, Danny Searcy & Lisa, Eric Searcy & Tracy; grandchildren, Savion Searcy, Kache Searcy, Alexis Pennington, Karsyn Pennington, Madison Turner, Bailee Turner, Josh Turner; and a host of other grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father, Donald E. Searcy; son, Donnie Ray Searcy; and sister, Sissy Evans.

Mr. Searcy’s wishes were to be cremated and a memorial service will be held at a later date.

Clyde Wayne Pointer
October 20, 1949 – February 17, 2022

Mr. Clyde Wayne Pointer, age 72 of Quitman, died peacefully at his residence February 17, 2022. Mr. Pointer was a kind and gentle person who enjoyed being involved with his work. As a youngster Clyde loved to hunt and fish and found a real nitch when computers evolved. He was a graduate of West Monroe High School and attended U.L.M. before entering the Navy and spending years being a code breaker. He later was s Security System Technician until his retirement.

His mother, Myrtle Pointer is left to cherish his memory and he was preceded in death by his father, Marvin Luther Pointer; brother, Clifton Ray Pointer.

Visitation will be held 12:00pm until 2:00pm Wednesday, February 23, 2022 in the chapel of Southern-Edmonds Funeral Home with a graveside service at 2:15 in Brooks Chapel Cemetery with Reverend Wayne Morrow officiating. He will be interred at Brooks Chapel Cemetery under the direction of Southern-Edmonds Funeral Home.

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BATON ROUGE — Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards is dropping any remaining state masking requirements, including for schoolchildren, when he renews the COVID-19 public health emergency order Wednesday.

Edwards said a deep drop in hospitalizations in the waning omicron variant surge prompted his decision.

“There won’t be any mention of masks” in the new order, the governor said during a press conference Monday.

COVID hospitalizations have been cut in half since omicron’s peak in middle January. On Monday the Louisiana Department of Health reported 1,135 hospitalizations.

“We’re definitely on the downswing of the omicron surge,” Edwards said.

But the governor said the number of deaths reported daily — 41 on Monday — continue to be a “gut punch.”

“When you’re coming off a surge the last number to respond is deaths,” he said.

Edwards said he is aware more governors have already or are considering lifting their public health emergency orders completely.

“I decided not to do that because we still have 1,135 people in the hospital … as variants change it’s more important to focus on hospitalizations than cases,” Edwards said. “Before I lift the order, which may be on or before March 16, I want to make sure there aren’t adverse circumstances in doing so.”

Throughout the pandemic, officials across the United States have rolled out a patchwork of restrictions on social distancing, masking and other aspects of public life.

The orders vary by state, county and even city. At the height of restrictions in late March and early April 2020, more than 310 million Americans were under directives ranging from “shelter in place” to “stay at home.”

Restrictions are now ramping down in many places, as most states have fully reopened their economies.

 

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For the second year in a row the Jonesboro-Hodge boys basketball team will play in a special playoff game to determine the winner of the district 1-2A title. The Tigers will play North Caddo at 6:00 pm on Thursday at Lakeside High School, located in Sibley. The special playoff game was required after Jonesboro-Hodge beat North Caddo 69-61 this past Friday in Vivian to offset the 67-55 home loss to the Titans back on January 28th. 

The contest is not only important in crowning the district champion but has possible serious ramifications for JHHS in the power ratings that determine the seedings of the upcoming LHSAA playoffs. Currently the Tigers are ranked #7 in Class AA. A loss would certainly cause JHHS to drop but a victory could elevate the Tigers standings as the winner of a district is granted a full extra point. 

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The Jonesboro Board of Aldermen adopted three Resolutions (2022-04,05,06) to be sent to the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) to inform them of the corrective actions taken by the town in regard to the South, North and East Oxidation Ponds. 

The action was taken during the regularly scheduled monthly meeting that was held on February 11th, via tele-conference. The session started with James Ginn, Robbie Siadek, Aaron Stringer, Devin Flowers, Nia Johnson approving the minutes of the January 11th and 31st meetings.

A discussion regarding the December and January financials followed with several members of the Council commenting on their concern of the accuracy of the numbers. In response, Mayor Leslie Thompson gave assurances that correct information was being tabulated and that both reports should have good number moving forward.  

Mr. Cedric Floyd then made a presentation on the progress of the Redistricting Plan being conducted by DATA Center. He indicated the 2020 Census numbers indicated a population loss of 596 people for the Town of Jonesboro and he would be doing a more detailed presentation as the project progresses. The council approved DATA Center to conduct the redistricting study for the Town of Jonesboro.

The Council then accepted the resignation of LaSecret  Jones, effective 2/8/2022 from the Jonesboro Police Department and agreed to move Matthew Nash from part time to full time dispatcher. In a corresponding move, Robrecia Goree was hired in a part time capacity.  

Compliance Officer, Brandon Brown, enumerated several issues he had dealt with over the course of the month relating to the Town’s nuisance policy. The response from the citizens was favorable as most of the property owners are working to get the properties into compliance. 

In final action before closing comments were made, Mayor Thompson briefed the council on the attempts to hire an in-house accountant to replace the CPA firm whose contract ended in 2021. The current CPA firm, Kenneth Folden and Co., has agreed to stay on with the town and train the in-house person.  This will be a trial basis going forward.

 

 

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 The brackets for the LHSAA girls basketball state tournament has been released and for the two of the three Jackson Parish schools that will participate, the road to “Marsh Madness” starts at home. For the other the travel is even easier as they received a first-round bye and then gets a second-round home game. 

District 1-2A champion Jonesboro-Hodge and Weston, who finished second in district 1B will both host first round games at their respective gymnasiums at 6:00 pm on Thursday. District 1B champion, Quitman, received an opening round bye.

The Lady Tigers received a #16 seed after finishing the regular season with a 13-13 and winning the district championship with a perfect 6-0 record. Their opponent will be #17 Pine High, who finished the regular season with a 14-8 overall record tied for second in district 9-2A with a 7-3 mark. The winner of that contest earns a date at #1 ranked Amite (27-2) who was the champion of district 9-2A.

The home game for the Lady Tigers was somewhat of a surprise to the casual observer as when the regular season ended JHHS was listed at #18 in the rankings with a 31.75 power point rating. Pine, who had a better overall record and higher power point rating (32.38) was at #16 with Port Allen coming it at #17 after finishing with a 31.76 rating.   By virtue of their district championship though JHHS received an extra power rating point which allowed them to leap frog both in the playoff seedings.

While the Lady Tigers will play a school they have never met before, it is a completely opposite scenario for Weston. They know their opponent very well and have already played them twice before this season, the last time just one week ago. 

Choudrant High (19-14, 1-3 will be the Lady Wolves first-round opponent, setting up a “rubber game” between the two, neighboring district 1B schools separated by roughly 15 miles as the crow flies. With a 17-12 overall record and 2-4 mark in district play, Weston will look to buck the trend seen in the games between the two this season as both won on their opponent’s home floor.

The Lady Wolverines, who had a 45.85 rating, also ended up benefitting from their district 1B title as it jumped the Lady Wolverines from #10 to #8 after earning the extra point. With the top eight receiving byes, Quitman gets to rest before playing. They will await the winner of #9 Anacoco (19-13) and #24 Simsboro (8-19) another district 2B foe for a regional round contest slated to be played on Tuesday, February 22nd at Quitman. 

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The public is invited to come and help the district 1-2A champion and Class AA state semi-finalist, JHHS football team celebrate one of the best seasons in Tiger history at the annual Football Banquet to be held on Thursday, February 24th.

The gala event will take place at 6:00pm at the Charles Garrett Community Center, located at 182 Industrial Avenue in Jonesboro. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased at the Jonesboro-Hodge High School office. Space is limited so buy your tickets now as the event is expected to sell out quickly. 

 

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The end of an era officially takes place today, Wednesday, February 16th, when friends, family and co-workers celebrate Chuck Allen’s retirement as Chairman of the Jonesboro State Bank (JSB). The public is invited to attend the festivities that will take place from 10:00am to 1:00pm at the JSB location at 109 Jimmie Davis Boulevard in Jonesboro.  

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Dear Ask the Paperboy,
My understanding is that collaborative is an adjective meaning “two or more parties working together,” i.e., “a collaborative effort.” This week I heard a similar word: “cobladderative.” During a particularly long sermon, the parishioner by me said they were in a “cobladderative situation.” They looked most uncomfortable? Being just a visitor, I nodded politely and didn’t pursue a line of questioning. Any help?Asking for a Friend

Dear Asking for a Friend,
Paperboy has been there. No fun. It’s not a religious word at all; it’s actually about as human and secular as you can get. You find yourself in cobladderative peril when your personal bladder and a long movie or long sermon conspire to make you have to decide whether to go to the bathroom or hold it until the credits. Or until the “amens.” It’s one of those potentially violent and dicey deals. If you can avoid cobladderation, the day is worth as much celebration as you can offer.

Dear Ask the Paperboy,
With Louisiana Tech and other programs about to start their baseball seasons, I read about Tech’s 2021 “historic” run last spring and in another article read of the Love Shack’s “historical moments.” Are these two adjectives interchangeable? Which is preferable?
History Fan in Ruston

Dear History,
Paperboy just dusted off his Grammar for Dummies, Junior Edition, turned to the “Things I Don’t Know” section and concluded that while both words describe the past — and everything that happens, like your reading of the question above, is now in the past — “historic” means something that’s really important. Tech hosted an NCAA Regional for the first time last spring, making it important/historic. “Historical” can be just about anything from the past that has to do with an event but isn’t necessarily the most important thing from that event: for instance, the box scores from the Regional are historical. If a batter had clobbered eight home runs in a single game, then the box score would be considered historic. (If a second-year home team batter had done it, the feat would be both historic and sophomoric, and the mood in Ruston that weekend would be as it was anyway: euphoric.) Whether or not these answers hold up, time will tell. Either way, just in case something historic happens this spring, get to a ballpark.

Dear Ask the Paperboy,
Speaking of the past, a now-seldom-used term is one of my favorites. I say term: it might even be an idiom. Oh, how I do love an idiom! Anyway, “hue and cry,” as in, “When taxes were raised, there was a great hue and cry.” My question is, Can you have one without the other?
An Idiot for Idioms

Dear Idiom Idiot,
Hue sure can.

Dear Paperboy,
I stayed up all night to see where the sun went. Then it dawned on me.
Clever in Calhoun

Dear Clever,
We see what you did there. Why must you pun-ish us?

Until next time, feel free to submit your queries. This is a collaborative enterprise, after all, and Paperboy never sleeps.

Contact Teddy at teddy@latech.edu

 

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The Jackson Parish School Board (JPSB) met in a special called meeting at 8:00 a.m. on February 10, 2022, at the Central Office, located at 315 Pershing Highway in Jonesboro. JPSB President Gloria Davis, Dennis Clary, Rickey McBride, Gerry Mims, Mary Saulters and Calvin Waggoner were present for the roll call. Wade McBride was absent. 

The special session was held regarding a single item. As soon as the meeting was called to order a motion was made by Mary Saulters, seconded by Rickey McBride and carried to approve granting Superintendent David Claxton permission to sign the AIA Document B105-2017, Standard Short Form of Agreement between owner and architect with Michael Walpole, Architect concerning the additions and renovations at Weston High School and Quitman High School, to be paid from ESSERS II/ESSERS III.

After Superintendent Claxton gave his comments, the meeting was adjourned. 

 

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Ages 5&6 League

Bucks 30 Bulls 6 – (Bucks scoring) Koplen Taylor 18, Logan Blewer 4, Austin North 2, Crew Tidwell 2, Charlea Jones 1, Jersey Kate Corley 1, Jesslyn Williams 1, Ayden Chatman 1 (Bulls scoring) Pistol McCurdy 1, Thomas Sessions 1, Bryce Martin 1, Korea Burks 1, Ellie Shultz 1, Dally Kate McCurdy 1

Lakers 17 Clippers 15 – (Lakers scoring) Colton Haney 6, Kylee Allen, Clark Allen 2, James Odom 2, Star Bradley 1, Emett Hall 1 (Clippers scoring) Brennan Otwell 5, Mason Caldwell 3, Tytus Campbell 2, Brenleigh Whitman 1, Ava Palmer 1, Jace Watkins 1, Drake Shoemaker1, Ryleigh Puffer 1

Bucks 29 Warriors 6 – (Bucks scoring)  Koplen Taylor 20, Logan Blewer 3, Austin North 2, Crew Tidwell 1, Charlea Jones 1, Jersey Kate Corley 1, Jesslyn Williams 1, Ayden Chatman 1 (Warriors scoring) Reese Johnson 1, Madi Spillman 1, Landrie Watson 1, Carter Hall 1, Mayson Terral 1, Trenton Jerry 1

Spurs 17 Pelicans 12 – (Spurs scoring) Carson Knox 6, Jeremiah Jones 6, River Waggoner 2, Karli Bradford 1, Cutter Whisonant 1, Mary Kathryn Malone 1 (Pelicans scoring) Jacob Toms 3, Kaden Blewer 2, Caylee Mauthe 2, Braxton Lawson 2, Bryce Mauthe 2, Leia Green 1

Scoring Stars: Koplen Taylor 20, Koplen Taylor 18

7&8 Girls League

Mercury 19 Aces 17 – (Mercury scoring) Ainsley Bougues 10, Adeline Anderson 4, Charlee Mauthe 3, Lizzie Kate Sullivan 2 (Aces scoring) Kate Keiffer 6, Chloe Maxwell 6, Carrington Bond 4, Lily Tolar 1

Scoring Stars: Ainsley Bougues 10

7&8 Boys League

Kings 24 Hawks 21 – (Kings scoring) Khyree Boston 10, Grant Griffin 7, Jase Reed 4, Slade Gray 1, Brock Craighead 1
(Hawks scoring) Jagger Ingram 7, Asher Norred 6, Maddox Naron 3, Cruz Nomey 2, Braddock Chandler 1, Landry Garrett 1, Carter Kelley 1

Celtics 21 Thunder 13 – (Celtics scoring) Ryder Pardue 7, Bentley Hall 4, Mason Tolar 4, Noah Martin 3, Grant Williams 1, Jace Jackson 1, Jaycob Rogers 1 (Thunder scoring) Mason Greer 8, Chance Lemoine 2, Thatcher Savage 1, Clay Burton 1, Robert Stassen 1

Magic 30 Blazers 13 – (Magic scoring) Bentley Ponder 17, Kutter Blalock 6, Caleb Robinson 4, Maddox Graham 2, Braxton Barnett 1 (Blazers scoring) Jase Tinsley 7, Andrew Edwards 3, Trey Wall 1, Rhett Emmons1, Grayson Edwards 1

Scoring Stars: Bentley Ponder 17, Khyree Boston 10

9&10 Girls League

Sky 32 Fever 13 – (Sky scoring) Sophia Kliebert 24, Skyleigh 4, Hannah Aldy 2, Allison Roberts 2, Kynleigh Leach 1 (Fever scoring) Bailey Tinsley 8, Tinley Choate 2, Maggie Wall 2, Tessa Reeves 1

Mystics 27 Sky 11 – (Mystics scoring) Jalynn Jiles 16, Sky Martin 4, Audrina Martin 2, Addison Phares 2, London Burks 2, Skylar Lamkin 1 (Sky scoring) Sophia Kliebert 9, Kynleigh Leach 2

Scoring Stars: Sophia Kliebert 24, Jalynn Jiles 16

9&10 Boys League 

Raptors 23 Grizzlies 7 – (Raptors scoring) Eli Henderson 15, Mason Thomas 4, Damon Liles 4 (Grizzlies scoring) Joseph Gill 4, Gunner Brown 2, Noah Spillman 1

Kings 16 Rockets 10 – (Kings scoring) Lucas Leach 9, Lukas Bandy 3, Christopher Oneal 3, #2 – 2, #9 – 1
(Rockets scoring) Cason 6, Jaxen Culpepper 2, #5 -2

Celtics 21 Thunder 20 – (Celtics scoring) Cannon Tatum 17, Jaysen Burns 2, Josiah Ramsey 2 (Thunder scoring) Aiden Reed 10, Hayden Essmeier 6, Benjamin Patton 2, Levi Southeen 1, Caston Zimmerman– 1

Scoring Stars: Cannon Tatum 17, Eli Henderson 15, Aiden Reed 10

11&12 Girls League

Sun 22 Wings15 – (Sun scoring) Livi Otwell 12, Avery Watson 4, Ella Robinson 2, Taylor Borland 2, Carlynn Waters 1, Kaylan Hough 1 (Wings scoring) Kinsley Ponder 9, Hallay Taylor 3, Brylee Cuthrell 2, Jazzmine Stuckey 1, Emma Kate Toms 1

Lynx 26 Wings 12 – (Lynx scoring) Kinley Walker 20, Sanaa Tatum 2, Gennavive Ford 2, Teyton Naron 1, Rayleigh Medaries 1 (Wings scoring) Kinsley Ponder 7, Adaya Diaz 4, Reese Womack 1

Liberty 23 Dream 11 – (Liberty scoring) Samone Mallard 15, Shacoria Mallard 5, Allie Robertson 1, Hailey Chatham 1, Lily Duke 1 (Dream scoring) Brooklyn Brown 4, Makayla Hodnett 2, Briley Jones 2, Madeline Hodnett 1

Scoring Starts Kinley Walker 20, Samone Mallard 15, Livi Otwell 12

11&12 Boys League

Bucks 26 Mavericks 15 – (Bucks scoring) Leyton Younse 7, Joseph Delaney 6, Colt Guyotte 6, Kaleb Maxwell 4, Jhadarious Bishop 2, Ryder Gray 1 (Mavericks scoring) Caden Jackson 10, Gabriel Lebrun 3, Luke Rowe 1, Will St. Clair 1

Bulls 39 Spurs 38 – (Bulls scoring) Cash Ingram 17, Michael Malone 8, Asher Rhodes 7, Aiden Rhodes 4, Gregory Hendricks 3 (Spurs scoring) Jack Thomas 12, Zach Smudricks 8, Derrime Malone 6, Hayden Seymore 5, Hayden Bryant 3, Elijah Calloway 2, Aundra Spence 1, Crason Thompson 1

Suns 30 Mavericks 12 – (Suns scoring) Kobie Williams 8, Mathew Odom 8, Bryce Tolar 4, Jake North 4, Jaxon Brown 3, Trevor Self 2, R.J. Lablance 1 (Mavericks scoring) Elijah Jackson 6, Caden Jackson 4, Luke Rowe, Aiden Marsh 1

Lakers 25 Hornets 18 – (Lakers scoring) Channing Gray 14, Rylan Mauthe 2, Deuce Waters 2, Remy Kennard 1, Corbin Ussery 1, Tanner Allen 1 (Hornets scoring) Gunner Fontenot 8, Atden Greer 3, Abram Toms 3, Brittingham 2, Malachi Harris 1, Braydon Robinson 1

Scoring Stars: Cash Ingram 17, Channing Gray 14, Jack Thomas 12, Caden Jackson 10

13 & 14 Boys League

Blazers 48 Heat 23 – (Blazers scoring) Abel Leach 20, Larson Thomas 8, Shane Reed 8, Brody Tidwell 8, Jackson Bougues 4 (Heat scoring) Brayden Martin 8, Mason Delaney 8, Keistan Hearn 3, Liam Weaver 2, Kason Roberts 2

Magic 29 Celtics 26 – (Magic scoring) Skylar Nelson 8, Asher Shultz 7, D.J. Palmer 6, Jeremiah Jerrerson 5, Jamarcus Dozier 3 (Celtics scoring) Ty Henderson 12, Taden Thomas 8, Brody Toms 6

Scoring Stars: Abel Leach 20, Ty Henderson 12

NOTE: Scoring Stars are those who score 10 or more points in a game

League Standings

AGE 5 & 6 LEAGUE	RECORD
Bucks	6-1
Spurs	6-1
Clippers	5-2
Pelicans	3-4
Bulls	2-5
Warriors	2-5
Lakers	1-7

AGE 7 & 8 GIRLS	RECORD
Mercury	6-2
Aces	4-2
Stars	0-6

AGE 7 & 8 BOYS	RECORD
Magic	6-0
Hawks	4-2
Blazers	2-4
Thunder	2-4
Celtics	2-4
Kings	2-4

AGE 9 & 10 GIRLS	RECORD
Mystics	7-0
Sky	5-2
Storm	4-2
Fever	1-6
Sparks	0-7

AGE 9 & 10 BOYS	RECORD
Thunder	4-2
Kings	4-2
Raptors	4-2
Celtics	3-3
Grizzlies	2-4
Rockets	1-5

AGE 11 & 12 GIRLS	RECORD
Liberty	7-1
Sun	7-1
Lynx	4-3
Wings	1-7
Dream	0-7

AGE 11 & 12 BOYS	RECORD
Bulls	7-0
Lakers	6-1
Bucks	4-2
Spurs	4-4
Suns	3-3
Hornets	1-7
Maverick	0-8

AGE 13 & 14 BOYS	RECORD
Blazers	5-1
Magic	3-3
Heat	2-4
Celtics	2-4

It is the goal of the Jackson Parish Journal to show as many pictures as possible of the youth playing in games and request your help by sending pictures to:  jpjjacksonla@gmail.com

Thanks to Cassidy Hall for submitting the pictures below.

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Can you spell Grand Champion? You can best believe Ethan Johnson of Quitman Junior High can. Fact of the matter, the 8th grader proved that he can correctly spell most any word that you present to him, which is what he did at the annual Spelling Bee to earn the title of 2022 QHS Grand Champion. As result Johnson qualified to compete in the LA Regional Competition on March 5th, 2022, at LSU-Shreveport.

The yearly competition pitted classmates from the 3rd, 4th, 5th 6th and 8th grade in an attempt to win categories of: Most Poised, Best Enunciation, Most Sportsmanlike and Class Grand Champion. A final round was then held among the winners of each grade where the following awards were also up for grabs: Most Encouraging, Best Peer Coach, Most Camaraderie, Peer Leadership and 2022 QHS Grand Champion.

2022 QHS Spelling Bee Championship

THIRD GRADE

Most Poised	Gracelyn Lowery
Best Enunciation	Shepard Norred
Most Sportsmanlike	Brylee Hasley
3rd Grade Champion	Jonah Morris

FOURTH GRADE

Most Poised	Brenna Lowery
Best Enunciation	Colt Powell
Most Sportsmanlike	Amelia Staggs
4th Grade Champion	Colt Powell

FIFTH GRADE

Most Poised	Addi Faber
Best Enunciation	Sophia Kliebert
Most Sportsmanlike	Eli Jackson
4th Grade Champion	Bethany Webb

SIXTH GRADE

Most Poised	Sunni Altheimer
Best Enunciation	Emma Kate Toms
Most Sportsmanlike	Mathew Odom
4th Grade Champion	Caden Jackson

EIGHTH GRADE

Most Poised	Katy Cumpton
Best Enunciation	Ryen Boone
Most Sportsmanlike	Addisyn Bougues
4th Grade Champion	Ethan Johnson

FINAL ROUND AWARDS

Most Encouraging	Colt Powell
Best Peer Coach	Caden Jackson
Most Camaraderie	Jonah Morris
Peer Leadership Award	Bethany Webb
2022 QHS Grand Champion	Ethan Johnson

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This past Saturday, Georgia Robinson, the sensational senior guard from the rural community of Saline went to Benton, LA, which is an ever-growing, mini metropolis, just north of Shreveport. You could say she “went downtown”.

Actually, the daughter of Saline boys basketball coach Klint Robinson and his wife Autumn, who coaches the Saline girls track team, “went downtown” many times.  In this case, the use of the phrase is what basketball players call making a three-point shot and Robinson made so many that at the end of the day she had earned the title as the Louisiana High School Basketball Coaches Association (LHSBCA) Regional 3-Point Champion. 

Robinson, who at one point made an incredible 11 consecutive three-point attempts, won the girls competition at Benton High School over a plethora of shooters from Class 5A schools such as Parkway, Captain Shreve, Airline, Benton, & Haughton among others. 

It wasn’t without controversy though. Initially it was declared that Robinson and a girl from Parkway had tied with the girl from Parkway taking the “shoot off” by a 4-3 margin. A later examination of the film showed that in the final round of regulation that Robison’s total had been miscalculated. 

After much discussion it was determined that Robinson indeed was the winner and would move on to the state championship competition that will be held at Louisiana Christian University in Alexandria on March 19th against the winners from the other nine regions across the state. 

The format had each competitor take shots each from the corner, wing, top of the key, wing and corner on opposite side). At each one of those positions the shooter had one minute to shoot four balls. Each shot made counted one point, with the 4th ball, or “money ball” counting as 2 pts. If there is a tie in the end, there is a 30 second shoot-off between the ones that are tied to determine a winner.

 

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One day, 11-year-old Grace Bedell’s father showed her a photograph of a man. Grace was instantly appalled by what she saw. She described his appearance as having a “high forehead over those sadly pathetic eyes, [an] angular lower face, with deep-cut lines about the mouth.” She had never met the man but was determined to help him improve his looks. Her suggestion was to cover his face with whiskers because, as she said in the letter, “you would look a great deal better for your face is so thin.” As to soften the blow of her criticism, Grace made a single compliment to the picture in her letter. She wrote, “I think that rail fence around your picture makes it look very pretty.” She asked that if the man had no time to reply to her letter, to have his daughter reply in his stead. She ended the letter with a firm request that he “answer this letter right off. Good bye. Grace Bedell.”

Four days later, the thin-faced man read Grace’s letter containing criticisms which would have been a blow to any man’s ego regardless of the age of the criticizer. He quickly penned the following response to young Grace:

“My dear little Miss.
Your very agreeable letter of the 15th. is received. I regret the necessity of saying I have no daughters. I have three sons — one seventeen, one nine, and one seven, years of age. They, with their mother, constitute my whole family. As to the whiskers, having never worn any, do you not think people would call it a piece of silly affection if I were to begin it now?”

He finished the letter with warm affection, “Your very sincere well-wisher,” and signed his name.

Most people would have quickly discounted the letter and would not have given it a second thought. However, over the next few days, the man pondered over Grace’s letter. The debate of whether or not to grow a beard plagued his mind. Finally, after much consideration, he decided to take Grace’s advice and grew a full beard.

Four months later, the now-bearded man stopped at Westfield, New York, to deliver a speech. At the end of his speech, the man said, “Last Fall I received a letter from this place—and a very pretty letter it was, too. It was written by a young girl whose name, if I remember rightly, was Bedell. Among many other things in that letter was a recommendation that I should let my whiskers grow, and it would improve my appearance. It was partly from that suggestion that I have done so. If that young lady is in this crowd I would very much like to see her.” He noticed that people in the crowd turned their gaze to a specific location. Grace was present but, due to the size of the crowd, had not seen or heard the man’s speech. The crowd cleared a path and pushed Grace forward. The man stepped down from the platform, shook Grace’s hand and gave her a kiss. He touched his beard and said, “You see, I let these whiskers grow for you, Grace.” They talked only briefly before the man shook her hand again, stepped into his car, and was whisked away. Grace never saw the man again.

Grace’s letter was, in part, responsible for the iconic look of a man most of us cannot picture without whiskers, though he wore them for only the last four years of his life. His bearded portrait graces the $5 bill. The man whose image so appalled young Grace that she was driven to write a letter of criticism was… Abraham Lincoln.

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Several members of the Weston High track team spent this past weekend getting valuable instruction at the LSU Track Camp held at the Bernie Moore Track Complex on the LSU campus in Baton Rouge. Highly decorated athletes from all over the United States and world were on hand to provide assistance and helpful training techniques. The WHS faculty, coaches and athletes would like to thank all the adult chaperones who accompanied the team as well as the many who made donations to help with the expenses involved. 

Raffle winner announced!

One fundraising activity to help pay for the trip to LSU was a raffle of a $100.00 Gift Card to Wal-Mart. Congratulations go to the winner, Lori Shell.

 

 

 

 

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Nearly 40 members plus staff from the Boys & Girls Clubs of North Louisiana’s McDonald Unit (Jonesboro) traveled to Dallas, Texas over the weekend as part of the first field trip this year.  

The weekend was full of fun, starting with the Dallas World Aquarium followed by a trip to AT&T Stadium, home of the Dallas Cowboys. The group had a pizza party in the stands before getting the opportunity to run on the same field as some of the top NFL stars.

Some parents of our members also tagged along for the fun, with one mother commenting that she would never be able to give her kids this opportunity without the Boys & Girls Club.

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Reinette Foster, local owner of Foster Financial, is a financial planning and retirement professional with several years as a trusted advisor to families, individuals, and businesses. Reinette will help you sidestep unnecessary risk, keep your retirement assets intact, and achieve the retirement you have always dreamed of.

Her desire is to help others grow out of their own discovery of safe money products and solutions by providing the guidance necessary to truly enjoy your golden years.

Reinette is a Federal Retirement Consultant that specializes in several areas of retirement planning;

Federal Employee Benefits
Tax Planning
IRA/401K Rollovers
Asset Protection
Social Security
Income Strategies

Contact Reinette today! rfoster@reinettefoster.com
318-481-6539
http://www.ReinetteFoster.com

 

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Eldon Joe Tyler
April 20, 1933 – February 13, 2022

Mr. Eldon Joe Tyler, age 88, of Jonesboro, passed peacefully Sunday, February 13, 2022 with his son by his side. Mr. Tyler was most commonly known by and called Papaw Jay. He was born on Thursday, April 20, 1933 and was raised in Jonesboro, Louisiana amid his four siblings and many cousins. He truck-farmed with his father and through the years became a carpenter. Papaw Jay built many houses and additions in Jackson Parish.

Mr. Tyler served in the United States Army for two years during the Korean Conflict. Later, while working in Washington State picking apples, he met and married his beloved bride, Beverly Jo McLoud. After marriage, they moved to Jonesboro and raised their family there. In his younger days Mr. Tyler enjoyed fishing and hunting. He was a master gardener and loved to grow home-grown tomatoes to have with his mustard greens, cornbread and buttermilk. He liked watching animal shows and Lone Star Law on TV, but his favorite channels were the ones that showed Westerns. He loved bluegrass music, especially the old songs by Lester Flatt and Earl Scouggs. He loved exchanging jokes with his great grandchildren. He was a member of Jonesboro Church of Christ and attended until his health declined.

Left to cherish his memory are his children, Cindy Phillips and Ricky, Mary Jo Brister and Terry, Ramona Shows and Phillip, Jason Tyler; 11 grandchildren, 19 great grandchildren, a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his wife, Beverly Tyler; parents, Winfred Carl and Josie Ola (Jacks) Tyler; siblings, Charles Tyler, Onita (Tyler) Bond, Rosa Elizabeth (Tyler) Wyatt, Huey Prentiss “Buddy” Tyler.

Friends may visit with the family on Thursday, February 17, 2022 in the chapel of Southern-Edmonds Funeral Home from 5:00-8:00pm. Funeral services are set for 10:00am Friday, February 18, 2022 at Jonesboro Church of Christ with Bro. Freddie Shows officiating. Burial will follow in Gayla Traina Cemetery under the direction of Southern-Edmonds Funeral Home. Serving the family as pallbearers will be the grandsons, Cody Phillips, Tyler Phillips, Nathan Shows, Bradley Shows, Chris Williams, Jared Horton, Juddy Rogers, Kyle Jones, Kenny Jackson, Zack Middleton.

The family would like to extend a special thank you and are very appreciative of the love and care he received from Heart of Hospice and to his CNA, Latosha Martin and sitters, Carla Causy, Anita Hartis, Virginia Wigley, Amber LeBrun, Terri Dye, Savannah Guyotte, Liz Shumake, Amy Pace.

Rickie “Bubba” Lamon Grant
December 4, 1959 – February 12, 2022

Rickie was born December 4, 1959 in Chatham La. Resident of Jonesboro La. He is the third son of James and Minnie Jane Grant. He left us too soon on Friday February 12, 2022 succumbing to injuries from an automobile accident received on December 20 2021. He was 63 years of age.

Rickie attended Southern University in Baton Rouge La. He joined the Navy from 1978-1981. Rickie received Certification in Electrical, Welding and Carpentry. He was employed at Louisiana Children’s Home in Ruston La for 13 years. He had a fundamental love for his students and had a desire to be an agent for change in their lives educationally. On June 9, 2007 Rickie publicly dedicated his life to Jehovah. Rickie remained a faithful servant, and regular pioneer. He enjoyed teaching about Jehovah and a passion for any outdoor sport or work. He worked several years on the Reginal Building Committee. He attended the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witness in Jonesboro, LA.

He leaves to mourn his wife, Raynae Whitelaw-Grant, whom he loved and cherished for eight years and six months. Rickie will forever be remembered for his gentleness, his spiritual leadership and friendship by her. His father: James Grant Jr. (Evelyn) Chatham La; Mother: Minnie Jane Grant; Three brothers: James B Grant (Chatham La); Jonathan Grant (Tammy) Monroe La. Tracy foster (Sheila) AL; Five sisters: Mickie Wilson (Atlanta Ga) Mozetta Grant (Baton Rouge La) Joan McKeever (Atlanta Ga.) Nina Childs (Richard) Kansas City Mo.; Elaine Jackson (Joel) Jonesboro La. One daughter Malkia Henderson; Two grandchildren: Alexander Woodward; Willow Woodward; One aunt Jessie Grant (Kansas City Kansas) One Uncle Wilbert Kelly (Ruston La.) A host of nieces and nephews; friends; coworkers; Christian brothers and sisters
that he dearly loved.

Special thanks to Howard Wilson, a brother, friend and advocate when most needed for Rickie and Mozetta Grant his loyal sister who was daily by his side. Rickie and Rayne have been blessed by Jehovah God to have both in our life.

Public visitation will be held Friday February 18, 2022 at 1-3pm at the Kings Funeral Home, located at 1511 W. California Ave. in Ruston, LA. A graveside service will immediately follow at St. Clair Cemetery in Chatham, LA.

A Virtual Memorial Service will be held at 2:00pm on Saturday February 19, 2022 via Zoom.

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On Friday, February 11th,the Jackson Parish Police Jury along with the Jackson Parish Fire Chief Association issued a burn ban. Based on the burn ban rules “ALL outdoor burning” is prohibited until the Fire Chief determines the weather conditions are safe enough to cancel the burn ban. This immediate burn ban will remain in place until further notice.

Fire fighters say this ordinance does not apply to prescribed burns by the La. Department of Agriculture and Forestry, by those trained and certified by the Department of Agriculture and Forestry.

A violation of this burn ban may result in a $500.00 fine and/or 6 months in jail, says the fire department.

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Jacob Wheeler of Harrison, Tennessee won the Knockout Round of the Major League Fishing Pro Bass Tour inaugural event of 2022 with a nine bass catch totaling 43 pounds, 7 ounces but the real winner was the “Jewel of Jackson Parish” otherwise known as Caney Lake. 

The fishery where the 15.97 lb. bass that set the Louisiana state record was caught in 1994, now is the site of the all-time Bass Pro Tour record when Randy Howell landed a 10-pound, 11-ounce lunker. He was not alone in landing large bass after bass which caused almost every single one of the 38 professional anglers that competed to heap their praises, including the round winner, Wheeler.

“What an unbelievable day,” said an excited Wheeler said in his post-game interview. “That was so much fun. As many big ones as I caught – it was definitely the best tournament fishing day I’ve ever had. One of the best fishing days of my entire life.”

“I promise that this isn’t the last time that you’ll see me here,” Wheeler went on to say. “I’ll definitely be making a couple of trips back to Caney Lake, this place was unreal.”

Second place winner, Jordan Lee, who weighed in two fish over 8 pounds and one over 7 pounds also was effusive in his praise of the lake.  

“Today was just crazy, the size of fish that I caught today,” Lee said. “I only caught six, but they were big. It was an incredible day.

Qualifying rounds of two, 40-man groups fished Lake D’Arbonne for two days per group before the 2nd thru 20th place finishers moved on to the Knockout Round held on Caney Lake this past Wednesday. 

Knockout Round Winners: (Top 8 to compete in the Championship Round)

Jacob Wheeler, – 9 bass, 43-7 lbs.
Jordan Lee- 6 bass, 34-10 lbs.
Bradley Roy- 6 bass, 27-12 lbs.
Bryan Thrift – 6 bass, 23-0 lbs.
Randy Howell- 3 bass, 18-3 lbs.
Jeff Sprague- 5 bass, 18-1 lbs.
Alton Jones – 4 bass, 15-6 lbs.
Shinichi Fukae – 3 bass, 14-9 lbs.

They’ll were joined by Qualifying Round winners: 
Group A: Mark Daniels, Jr.
Group B: Jared Lintner

Roy wins $100,000.00 Payout 

Bradley Roy caught 5 fish on Bussey Brake in the Championship Round that weighed a total of 26 lbs. 2 ozs. to win the inaugural Pro Bass Tour Series Tournament over nine other competitors to take home the $100,000.00 first prize.  While the total number of fish and weight failed in comparison to the totals the pro’s caught on Caney Lake in the knockout round, a new all-time record for the largest bass ever caught in PBT competition was set.

Ironically it was the same man, Randy Howell, who caught a 10 lb, 11 oz bass on Caney Lake the day before to set a new record, who set the record again one day later when one of the two fish he landed on the day weighed 12 lb. 14ozs. 

Winners of the championship round held at Bussey Brake

ANGLER	TOTAL WEIGHT/FISH	LARGEST	PAYOUT ($)
Bradley Roy	26-02 (5)	8-14	100,000
Alton Jones	24-15 (5)	9-00	45,000
Jordan Lee	24-09 (5)	6-12	38,000
Bryan Thrift	23-15 (5)	9-03	32,000
Jeff Sprague	18-13 (4)	7-14	30,000
Randy Howell	16-03 (2)	12-14	26,000
Mark Daniels Jr.	13-06 (3)	6-00	23,000
Jacob Wheeler	11-04 (2)	7-08	21,000
Shin Fukae	3-15 (1)	3-15	19,000
Jared Lintner	0-00 (0)		16,000

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At their regularly scheduled monthly meeting that was held on February 9th, the Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce elected officers and Board members for 2022. Founded in 2011, this organization is a voluntary partnership of businesses and professionals working together to build a healthy economy and improve the quality of life in Jackson Parish. 

2022 Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce Officers

President – Darrell Avery
Vice-President – Yumeaka Washington
Secretary – Karen Tolar
Treasurer – Carla Smith
Board Members – Christy Henderson, Clay Carroll, Dean Rushing, John Williams, Glen Kirkland, Johnny Horton, Randy Layfield, Andrea Malone

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The Chairman position at the Jonesboro State Bank that has been held by a member of the Allen family since 1939 will again be passed as Charles H. “Chuck” Allen Jr. is retiring from service. Following in the footsteps of grandfather, I.J. “Mr. Joe” Allen and father, Harold Allen, the third generation Chairman will be honored with a celebration of his lifetime of service from 10:00am – 1:00pm on Wednesday, February 16th at the Jonesboro State Bank, located at 109 Jimmie Davis Boulevard. The staff of the Jonesboro State Bank has extended an open invitation for all to attend and help celebrate the joyous occasion. Coffee and refreshment will be served. 

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