It’s all about showing appreciation for the many sacrifices that have and will be made by the military men and women of the past, present and future. That is why the members of VFW Auxiliary Post 4317, led by President Bettye Pate, has a huge outreach program and work diligently to present new program ideas for Veterans.
Recently, District President, Debbie Holmes and State Secretary/Treasurer, Margaret Nixon, met with local members to share their ideas and discuss the future plans that are in the works. To help honor our Veterans, contact a Post member and learn how you can be of service.
On Wednesday, March 16th, Eva Blanche Crowson celebrated her 94th birthday but it was the Saturday before that brought the biggest smile to her face. That was when her children all came home to give her a birthday party. Crowson is a resident of Hodge and is currently a rehabilitating at the Forest Haven Nursing Home in Jonesboro. Happy birthday, Mrs. Crowson!
In just their second year of having a program, Cornerstone Christian Academy in Jonesboro won the championship of the Sports League for Independent Christian Educators (SLICE) junior varsity tournament on Friday. The Warriors, coached by Matt Whitman & Dusty McNaughton took the title by beating Kingston Christian Academy out of Shreveport 43-40 in a rematch of their first-round game that saw CCA win 59-41. In the semi-finals, the locals beat Heritage Baptist, from Mount Enterprise, TX.
The Sports League for Independent Christian Educators, or SLICE, is a private sports league specifically tailored to small, faith-based educators in Louisiana and Texas. Currently their are ten member institutions: Bethel Christian Academy, Center Academy, Cornerstone Christian Academy, Heritage Baptist Christian School, Hope Baptist School, Kingston Christian Academy, the Louisiana School for Math, Science, and the Arts, Northside Christian Academy, and Provencal Christian Academy; and one associate institution: Northeast Christian Academy.
Since the first-time man ever wet a hook, he has always looked for an advantage, a way to figure out the best way to catch fish. Bass anglers especially have been obsessed with trying to find and locate bass in all kinds of water clarity. But today, anglers have access to fish finding instruments that can read the date on a dime in 30 feet of water. I really believe you could navigate to Mars with the electronics anglers have on their boats today. Tournament anglers are spending $15,000 on their fish finding units for the sole purpose of catching bass. Not all tournament anglers can afford this, and it’s created a major advantage for those who can. It’s a case of the haves vs. the have nots. Tournaments are being won on a weekly basis with these forward-facing sonars. Due to these advancements, it’s no longer a level playing field. Which brings up the question…. Is it ethical? Have we made bass and crappie fishing too easy? Will this come back to bite anglers after a few years of using these high advanced fish locating devices?
To understand how far sonars have come, let’s first go back to the late 1960’s with an instrument known as a flasher. This device was what started the electronics revolution. It was a round digital sonar that registered the depth and showed anything between the bottom and the surface with a red flashing line. Just like any electronic device that’s new, these were not cheap and only anglers with deep pockets could afford one of these.
Then came the paper graph. Now this was truly cutting-edge technology that came out in the early 70’s. This unit would print out a paper copy of the contour of the bottom and show fish suspended and even along the bottom. You could see stumps, trees, and underwater grass. It was a true mapping of the entire water column. Anglers would take these printed copies and keep them on file for use in future events.
During the 1980’s, sonar became the craze of the fishing world as companies like Humminbird unleashed their LCR (Liquid Crystal Recorder) which was so advanced it was scary. This revolutionized the marine industry with its detailed structure, zoom capability, sensitivity control, high speed tracking, waterproofness, and a screen you could actually see in the bright sunlight, which was a big problem for earlier sonars.
Now fast forward to today with what Garmin calls “Livescope” and Lowrance calls “Active Target Live.” Garmin was the first to come out with this new forward-facing sonar. A unit that allows you to see fish up to 60 or 70 feet in front of your boat live and in real time. Now THIS is a game changer!!! Anglers now cannot only see fish swimming, but when they bite the lure. It’s basically a video game on the front of your boat!!! If you do not have this level of electronics on your boat today, you’re probably fishing for 2nd place.
But this level of technology has raised questions and has become a hot topic for anglers across America. Some want it banned and think it should not be allowed in tournament competition. They think it gives anglers an unfair advantage. But they would be wrong. No matter what device is ever invented, there’s been nothing that will make fish bite a lure. Even looking at fish on a screen does not guarantee success. Anglers still must figure out a way to trigger fish into biting. But forward-facing sonar does help to locate fish a lot quicker and it allows anglers to zero in on larger fish.
From an angler’s perspective, forward facing sonar (Garmin’s Live Scope) just might be the greatest invention the fishing industry has ever seen. Once again, from the first-time man has ever wet a hook, he has always looked for a way to make it easier to find and catch fish. This will never change and when it comes to technology, there is no telling what lies ahead with regards to the fishing industry. Till next time, good luck, good fishing and don’t forget to set the hook!
A full agenda that covered everything from the recognition of outstanding students, teachers and a transportation specialist from this school year, to establishing the school calendar for the next was dealt with by the Jackson Parish School Board at their regularly scheduled monthly meeting that was held on Monday, March 14th.
The meeting began with the elementary, middle school and high school students and teacher of the year along with the school bus driver of the year being introduced and honored by board members Calvin Waggoner, Gloria Davis, Dennis Clary, Rickey McBride, Gerry Mims, Mary Saulters and Wade McBride.
Students and Teachers of the Year
Elementary Student of the Year
Elsie Flynn
5th Grade – Weston High
Junior High Student of the Year
Jaidon Venzant
8th Grade – JHMS
High School Student of the Year
Gabe McMillan
12th Grade – Weston High
Elementary Teacher of the Year
Jordan Boston
Quitman Elementary
Junior High Teacher of the Year
Jennifer Colvin
Weston Junior High
HIgh School Teacher of the Year
Amiee Ferguson-Larche
Jonesboro-Hodge High
Jordan BostonJennifer ColvinAmiee Ferguson-Larche
School Bus Driver of the Year
Lynisha Amos Bush was also recognized as being the Jackson Parish School Bus Driver of the Year and a regional Property Casualty Alliance of Louisiana (PCAL) award winner. Now in its 17th year, the PCAL Bus Driver of the Year program recognizes drivers based upon multiple driver attributes including Leadership, Attitude, Perseverance, Student and Parent Relationships, and Technical Skill.
Jackson Parish Supervisor of Maintenance and Transportation, David Brown, believes her recognition is well deserved.
“Lynisha is not only a great bus driver but a wonderful and caring person,” said Brown. “She is always willing to help others and always has a smile on her face.”
Lynisha Amos Bush – Bus Driver of the Year
2021 CLU’s for board members reviewed
Even the board members themselves received recognition as the Continued Learning Units (CLU’s) for 2021 were reviewed. Topping the seven member panel was Dennis Clary with 30 units.
Board Member
CLU’s earned
Dennis Clary
30
Gerry Mims
22
Calvin Waggoner
20
Mary Saulters
19
Wade McBride
19
Rickey McBride
16.50
Gloria Davis
11
2022-23 School Calendar Year adopted
EVENT
DATES
New Teacher Orientation
August 11, 2022
Professional Development
August 12, 15-16, 2022
First Day for Students
August 17, 2022
Labor Day Holiday
September 5, 2022
End of First Grading Period
October 13, 2022
Dismiss for Fall Break
October 20, 2022
Parent Teacher Conferences
October 20-21, 2022
Return from Fall Break
October 26, 2022
Veteran’s Day
November 11, 2022
Dismiss for Thanksgiving Holiday
November 18, 2022
Return from Thanksgiving Holiday
November 28, 2022
End of Second Grading Period
December 20, 2022
Dismiss for Christmas Holiday
December 20, 2022
Return from Christmas Holiday
January 4, 2023
Professional Development
January 13, 2023
Dr. Martin Luther King Day
January 16, 2023
Dismiss for President’s Day/Winter Break
February 16, 2023
Return from President’s Day/Winter Break
February 22, 2023
End of Third Grading Period
March 7, 2023
Dismiss for Easter Break
April 6, 2023
Return from Easter Break
April 11, 2023
Seniors Last Day
May 9, 2023
End of Final Grading Period
May 22, 2023
Students Last Day
May 22, 2023
Teacher Work Day
May 23, 2023
NOTE: 392 Instructional minutes per day Mandatory in-services for non-certified employees will include three (3) days as assigned by Respective supervisors for the 2022-2023 school year.
Payment of the following: General Fund, Federal Program, Food Service, Sales Tax, Special Education, District Maintenance bills.
Payment to SHI in the amount of $17,937.11 for the renewal of Microsoft Office 365 Subscription License for 12 months, to be paid from General Fund.
Payment to La. Delta Community College in the amount of $11,125.00 for Spring 2022 Dual Enrollment tuition, to be paid from Supplemental Course Allocation.
Declare as surplus 1 Exmark Zero Turn Mower LZZ29KCE606 to be traded to 3B Outdoors. Trade in allowance is $2,450.00.
Declare as surplus 3 milk coolers from the cafeterias to be auctioned or sold.
Grant Superintendent Claxton authorization to purchase Textbooks/Curriculum teaching resources and consumables for the 2022-2023 school year. Not to exceed $350,000.00.
Rescind the motion made at the August, 2021 meeting to purchase 3 new Activ Panels from AXI Education for Special Education purposes, one (1) for Quitman High School – two (2) for Weston High School at a cost of $9,878.34, to be paid from IDEA funds.
Change the part time hourly Paraprofessional in the LEAP Connect classroom at Jonesboro Hodge Elementary School to a full time Paraprofessional due to an increased number of students in the classroom, to be paid from IDEA funds. This will be a year to year position.
Approve and pay the following for 2021-2022 Summer Learning program to include: Accelerate Summer Learning, IDEA Preschool summer academy, IDEA summer academy, STEM camp and ESYP summer learning: Teachers, Nurses and Therapists $30.00 an hour, Support Staff (Janitorial, Cafeteria, Paraprofessionals) $15.00 an hour and $70.00 per day for Bus Drivers, to be paid from ESSERS II, III and IIIEB, ESSERS Preschool 619 ARP, ESSERS IDEA 611 ARP, Title I, DSS and IDEA.
Accept low quote of $18,121.16 from Dell Inc. for 2 laptop computers and 14 desktop computers for teacher and student use at Weston High School, to be paid from Title I School Based funds.
Accept low quote of $24,229.50 from Dell Inc. for 25 desktop computers and 25 computer monitors for teacher and student use at Jonesboro Hodge Elementary School, to be paid from Title I School based funds.
Rescind motion made at January 10, 2022 meeting 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.
Pay to Presidio in the amount of $46,967.77 for Wi-Fi outdoor access at all schools, to be paid from ESSERS III.
Building and Grounds Committee Recommendations Approved
Accept low quote of $14,543.00 from Douglas Equipment Restaurant for 5 Mobile Heated Holding Proofing Cabinets, to be paid as follows: $5,817.20 from 2021 National School Lunch Equipment Assistance Grant and $8,725.80 from School Food Service. Each school will receive a cabinet.
Pay to Southern Roofing & Vinyl Siding, LLC in the amount of $13,900.00 for the change order to install new 12-inch fascial metal around edge of flat roof for Jonesboro Hodge High School Cafeteria, to be paid from ESSERS II.
Accept low quote of $15,000.00 from Mark Kennedy Plumbing to replace three (3) urinals at Weston High School, to be paid from Weston District funds.
Accept low quote of $17,247.00 from Wood Electronics, Inc. to replace intercom system at Weston High School, to be paid from Weston District funds.
Policy Committee Recommendation Approved
Revise the policy for JBA – Compulsory School Attendance Ages. The GBQ Policy on Retirement was tabled until the April 4, 2022 meeting
His team is going to the Field of Dreams later in the season. Last week he realized a dream come true when he signed a scholarship to play collegiate baseball and on Monday, he had a game most only get to dream about. It has already truly been a dream season for Caleb Waters and it is just getting started.
Waters became the first player from Jackson Parish to hit three homeruns in one game, three in three consecutive at bats and two in one inning in at least a decade and longer than can be remembered on Monday to lift Weston to a 16-1 bashing of Class 4A Bastrop. He also accounted for an Jackson Parish best 8 RBI and scored 3 runs.
Name
At Bats
Hits
Home Runs
Runs
RBI
Caleb Waters
3
3
3
3
8
DAY OF DREAMS
The “tri-fecta” improved Waters season average to .682 after nine games with 6 homeruns, 22 RBI and 22 runs scored. According to MaxPreps.com the six ‘taters” ties Waters for second in the NATION and leads the state of Louisiana, as does his RBI total. He also ranks second in the state in runs scored and in batting average.
Waters doesn’t have to look far to see who he is trailing in batting average as after Davis Tolar went 3/3 with a home run and two doubles in the contest, he lifted his overall average to a state leading .714 average. Conversely, Tolar’s third home run of the season and season total of 18 RBI puts him second in the state behind Waters. Talk about a one-two punch!
What has made the #1 ranked Wolves season so special is that they are not alone providing the offensive production. Tait Henderson, Braden Theriot, Tayt Culpepper and Kaden Shirley all scored two runs each and Bryce Zehr, Drew Browning and Colton Blundell got hits.
Weston batted around in the first inning to score 11 runs on 7 hits, 4 walks and two errors, including back-to-back jacks by Waters and Tolar. The Wolves followed with four more in the second on a Waters grand slam. The victory was the 9th in a row that the Wolves have won by 10 runs or more.
Culpepper got the win by giving up just one hit and getting all six out by strikeout. Tait Henderson relieved to strike out two of the three batters he faced in the one inning he pitched that due to an error saw Bastrop scored an unearned run.
Class 2A, D’Arbonne Woods scored five runs in the first two innings and allowed only five singles all game to Weston batters to take a 9-1 victory. The second straight loss dropped the Lady Wolves to 3-3 on the season with D’Arbonne Woods improving to 5-7.
Alaina Trosclair put Weston on top by coaxing a walk, stealing second and scoring on a Lexi Barmore single up the middle. Taylor Chatham got a hit in the third and Barmore got her second of the day in the fourth. McKenzie Hargrove and Josie Irvin both got hits iin the 7th inning but became two of seven that got stranded on base as Weston had the back luck of seemingly everything hit being right at a defender.
The Jackson Parish Police Jury called for a Public Hearing to be held on April 19th in an effort to move forward with whether or not certain roads will have end points adjusted or removed completely in the parish road maintenance program. The hearing will be held just prior to the next regularly scheduled meeting that takes place the third Tuesday of each month.
The move comes after the Road Committee identified the following roads as not meeting the criteria of serving the public, having alterations made, and/or, having only one landowner along its path.
a. Aberdon Road – removal b. Annie Tatum – removal c. Bolds Road – removal d. Bryant Road – adjust the maintenance end point to stop at 183 Bryant Road mailbox e. Buddy Gibson Road: – removal (property owners changed the surface) f. Canard Road – adjust the maintenance end point g. C. Osborn Road – removal h. Flat Creek Road – adjust the maintenance points and remove the middle portion i. Flowers Road – removal j. Henderson Road – removal k. Jackson McCarty Road – removal l. McKeever Road – removal m. Poverty Lane – adjust the maintenance end point n. Quail Ridge Road – adjust the maintenance end point o. Viola Road- removal
The meeting began with Christie Weeks of the Jackson Parish Tourism Board informing jury members Todd Culpepper, Amy Magee, John McCarty, Tarneshala “Niki” Cowans, Regina Rowe and President Lynn Treadway of their upcoming activity.Deanna Curts of Families in Need of Service (FINS), a Louisiana Supreme Court subsidiary, then requested the panel provide her organization an office to allow her to have a space to work truancy cases in the parish. Parish resident, Tulonna Law, completed the public comment portion of the meeting by requesting jury members reconsider the Roads Committee decision regarding Quail Ridge Road.
Two amendments to the budget followed with $1,500.00 being appropriated to the Sparta Ground Water Commission and $7,000.00 being funded to the Jackson Parish Museum and Fine Arts Association.
After discussion proved the Health Unit tax would expire at the end of the year, it was agreed to add a renewal referendum to the November election ballot. In similar talks adding a renewal tax for the Council on Aging was tabled as that tax won’t expire until 2024.
After discussion about Parish Board Appointments resulted in no action the meeting concluded with the LSU Ag Center being approved to use the Charles H. Garrett Community Center in accordance with their existing Cooperative Endeavor Agreement with the Police Jury.
The photogenic Quitman player (above) said it all when she put up two fingers. After That is the number of wins the Lady Wolverines now have in district 2B play after the 9-0 crushing of Choudrant to put them just one win away from a second straight undefeated district championship. The victory on Monday followed the 13-3 mashing of Mamou in the final game of the Tioga Tournament this past Saturday.
Mmmmm good! The M’s stand for Maddie Kaye Brymer, Maggie Guyotte, Madeline Vail, Madison Chaplin and Marley Bell who accounted for 6 hits, 8 runs and 9 RBI against Mamou and 7 hits, 5 runs, 3 RBI against Choudrant.
They aren’t alone in helping Quitman to a Jackson Parish leading,10th victory in 13 contests. Averie Williams and Karley Huckaby both hit doubles and scored against Choudrant with Skylar Hall adding two hits. Against Mamou, Cali Deal hit a pair of doubles and a triple to knock in two runs while 7th grader Anna Leach scored three runs and stole a base.
Deal was also impressive on the mound. The lanky lefthanded freshman won both games in impressive fashion. She pitched five shutout innings against Mamou and then followed with a complete game, goose egging of Choudrant, where she struck out a season best 17 batters, including the entire batting order before allowing her first hit.
Quitman 9 Choudrant 0 – The Lady Wolverines broke open a scoreless duel in the bottom of the third inning with five runs after two outs were made. Guyotte got things started by drawing a walk. Brymer and Deal followed with singles to plate the first run. Williams followed with a double to score Anna Leach, who subbed as a runner and Brymer. Huckaby smashed a double to score Williams and then scored on a Hall single. In the fourth Vail doubled and scored on a Brymer and scored again in the sixth after another double and a Chaplin single. Brymer hit a sac fly to score Chaplin.
Quitman 13 Mamou 3: Maggie Guyotte got the offensive onslaught going when she blasted a full count offering over the right field fence for her second “dinger” in as many days. The Lady Wolverines added another run in the top of the second when Skylar Hall hit a rope to right field and scampered all the way home after the fielder misplayed the ball.
Quitman opened it up in the third when Madeline Vail singled, stole second and scored on a Guyotte grounder between first and second. Cali Deal, who had tripled in the first inning but was stranded followed with another single to right. Anna Leach came in as a courtesy runner for Deal and promptly stole second before, along with Vail, trotted home in front of Maddie Kaye “Big Bopper” Brymer, who blasted a three run shot to left for her team leading third round tripper of the year.
The Lady Wolverines got a break in the top of the fourth and took advantage for three more runs. With two outs, Vail hit a grounder to third but reached on an error. Guyotte followed with a walk setting up a Deal double that scored Vail. Once again Leach subbed for Deal and followed Guyotte home when Brymer singled for two more RBI’s upping the lead to 9-0 after 3 ½ innings of play.
Meanwhile Deal was piling up K’s and 0’s on the mound. The K’s stood for the 8 strikeouts of Mamou batters and the 0’s stood for the number of runs allowed over the first five innings.
The “M Gang” went back to work in the top of the sixth. Madeline (Vail) got hit with a pitch to start the inning. Maggie (Guyotte) then coaxed a walk but not before Vail stole second, her 7th stolen base in two games. Deal then capped a perfect 4/4 day another double, her third extra base hit of the day to score Vail and move A. J. Gray, who ran for Guyotte, to third.
Maddie Kaye (Brymer) followed with a groundout that scored Gray, giving her a season best 6 RBI on the day. Leach, once again running for Deal, then scored her third run of the day when Madison (Chaplin) singled and then scored herself on a hit by Averie Williams.
Lexi Wise may be gone from this earth, but her spirit still shines brightly throughout the halls of Weston High School. This was never more evident than on March 12th, when the administration, faculty, staff and students at WHS wished her a heavenly Happy Birthday by releasing balloons in her honor and holding an auction to raise money for Lexi’s Closet.
At the age of 10 years old, Lexi passed away on November 8, 2019 after an accident on an ATV. The idea to create Lexi’s Closet came about when Lexi’s mom, Pam, had an idea to create a closet filled with supplies for the less fortunate students and what she loved to do most, give back.
This past week an auction was held that comprised of over 80 items were donated by area merchants, restaurants and individuals for auction and raised thousands of dollars that will go to supplying the Closet and help underprivileged children.
“The auction is officially closed, and we are in awe! When we first discussed this idea, we hoped to have 20 items and prayed we could raise $2,000. Your generosity and love have blown us away,” said auction organizer Cyndi Beaubouef. “I can’t think of a better way to say Happy Birthday to Lexi and honor her memory.”
Quitman and Weston High School took part in the Many High Track Meet this past week with Quitman athletes taking home five first place finishes and Weston two. In team competition Quitman finished third in the girls competition and fifth in the boys while the Weston girls came in fifth and the boys in eighth place. Natchitoches-Central won the boys meet and Converse won the girls. Host, Many High finished second in both divisions.
Maddie Grace Giddens (shown above) won both the 100 and 300 hurdles for Quitman with Emma Carter taking first in the high jump. Quitman also placed first in the pole vault in both boys and girls competition with Hunter Folks winning on the boys side and Summer Grillette tying Weston’s Carrol Foshee in the girls division. Jalexia Claridy was the other Weston gold medalist with a first place finish in the shot put and also finished in second in the discus. Also grabbing a spot on the podium for Weston was Nadia Siadek who finished third in the shot put and Darin Allen, third in the javelin.
Silver medalist finishers for Quitman were Geoffrey Maxwell in the high jump, who also finished third in the long jump, Bailey Keys in the shot put and both the 4×100 and 4×400 relay race teams. Coming in third was Brayli Stewart in the triple jump, Abi Temple in the javelin and Chance Chaplin in the 3200 meter run.
A few weeks back Caney Lake played host to 40 of the best anglers in the world as the Pro Bass Tour came to Jackson Parish. This Saturday over 250 of the top high school anglers in the state will descend on the “Jewel of the Piney Woods” as the reservoir known for its large lunkers will be the site of the 2022 Louisiana Youth Bass Nation 2022 North Spring Qualifier.
At last count 130 boats have been registered to fish with a maximum of 175 available. Check in begins at 4:30 am on Saturday at both the north and south launches. The north launch will be the location of the blast off and weigh in. The minimum length for a bass to be weighed will be 12 inches long. Junior fishermen are due in at 2:00pm with the High School first flight due in by 3:00pm.
Flight check in times
Flight 1: 3:00pm Boats 1 through 25 Flight 2: 3:15pm Boats 26 through 50 Flight 3: 3:30pm Boats 51 through 75 Flight 4: 3:45pm Boats 76 through 100 Flight 5: 4:00pm Boats 101 through 125 Flight 6: 4:15pm Boats 126 through 150 Flight 6: 4:30pm Boats 151 through 175
Photos will be taken in a photo area only. Parents/ family/ captain may take photos as well.
The Crawfish Basket, Jonesboro’s newest restaurant, will celebrate their grand opening this Saturday with a traditional ribbon cutting ceremony. The public is invited to join with the Stein family, members of the Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce, friends and patrons at 3:00 pm at their 800 Pershing Hwy address for the gala event The menu offers farm raised crawfish, crabs, boiled shrimp and all the extras that go with it that can be purchased by the pound or on platters available for take-out or dining in.
The Jackson Parish Bowhunters Archery Club (JPBAC) will be hosting a 3D Archery Tournament on March 26th at the Stephen Morgan Shooting Range, which is located at the Jackson Parish Recreation Department Sport Complex at 5254 Hwy 4 East, just outside of Jonesboro.
Registration fee is $20.00 for adults and $15.00 for youth. As an added bonus an Elite Embark Bow, that is donated by Superior Outdoors in Hodge, will be raffled. Ticket prices are $5.00 each. To purchase a ticket, contact any member of the JPBAC or go to Superior Outdoors.
ASA State Qualifier on March 19th
The next Louisiana ASA State Qualifier is going to be at Spanky’s Arrow Slingers, located at 462 Parsonage in Colfax, LA on Saturday. March 19th. This shoot will be a causal start from 8:00am to 12:00pm. Concessions will be available. To register call Spanky at 318-613-4428.
Four members of the Quitman High School Beta Club, along with their sponsor Mrs. Niki St. Clair, volunteered at the Jackson Parish Museum and Fine Arts Building on Saturday, March 12th. Their effort is a continuation of work the QHS Beta Club has been doing for the Museum and is doing in Jackson Parish.
“We thank them for their continued support of the museum and appreciate the Beta Club so much. We love seeing our young people involved in community service,” said Museum Board President Barbara Johnson.
The recently renovated museum is now open to the public on Saturdays from 9 AM to 1 PM. If your group or organization would like to visit and/or volunteer to be a “staffer” on a Saturday, please call 318-450-5561.
The Jackson Parish Library Board of Control met on Tuesday, February 22, 2022, 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. Standley, Mrs. Jenkins, Mrs. Crawley, and Mrs. Massey. Also present was Floyd Knox, Judy Robertson, and Teresa Carroll. Members absent: Mrs. Essmeier, Mrs. Nunn, and Mr. Chatham Mrs. Cooper led the invocation. The Board recognized Mrs. Regina Rowe from the Police Jury who was present for public comments. Mrs. Rowe wanted to say that she appreciated Mrs. Carolyn Crawley very much and presented her with a gift and certificate of appreciation from the Police Jury for her service to Jackson Parish. There being no other public comments, the Board proceeded with the proposed Agenda. Mrs. Cooper made the motion to approve the minutes for the January 18, 2022 regular board meeting. Mrs. Standley seconded. All yes. Motion carried. Mrs. Crawley made the motion to accept the January financial reports. Mrs. Jenkins seconded. All yes. Motion carried. Mrs. Massey made the motion to accept the January statistical reports. Mrs. Cooper seconded. All yes. Motion carried. The Director presented the Board with bids for projects to be completed at the Chatham branch. Mrs. Lisa Nunn joined the board meeting. After reviewing the bids for projects to be done at the Chatham library branch, Mrs. Standley made the motion to accept the bid of $63,500 from Triad Builders to complete the following specific projects: Replace (22) exterior columns, interior and exterior painting, replace (19) Downspouts, fix leak into the children’s area, and build workroom cabinets. Mrs. Cooper seconded. All yes. Motion carried. The Director updated the Board on the current projects. Angela Walsworth was on hand to give the Board an update on the LSU Ag StoryWalk collaboration for Chatham. She received word that Jackson Parish was chosen to receive 1 of 3 StoryWalk’s given away around the state. The Board President and Library Director thanked her for all of her hard work in making this huge collaboration with the community a success. The Library Director presented Mrs. Carolyn Crawley with a plague in recognition of over 30 years of service as Library Board member for the Jackson Parish Library. The Library Board and Staff all thank her for her many years of dedicated service. Mrs. Cooper made the motion to adjourn the meeting. Mrs. Jenkins seconded. All yes. Motion carried.
Gus and Jezebel live next door, and sometimes Molly from a house over is there and sometimes even Duke from down the street. These are labs and herding dogs and mixes of athletic breeds, serious animals, and when the mailman or mailwoman come by each day, it is Armageddon, the Olympics of Barking.
And all these dogs are gold medal contenders.
No problem. Our mail carriers have more than once smiled at me and said, above the insane barking, “They love me.”
Maybe you don’t need a sense of humor to carry the mail, but I have to believe it helps. That, and spray repellant.
All this came to mind after a letter arrived alerting us that this is the 230th anniversary of the U.S. Postal System. The actual date that President George Washington created the modern-day post office is Feb. 20, 1792, so the letter was three weeks late but, hey, who’s counting?
I’m not, and here’s why:
The post office is a dart board for complaints. Stamps are too high. Service is slow. “Y’all make my dogs bark.”
Easy target.
But allow me to argue for my brothers and sisters at the USPS.
First of all, a “sort of” mail delivery had been in place since 1775, and Benjamin Franklin, you’ll remember from history class, was our first postmaster general. His salary was $1,000 annually. That’s a lot back then but … it would not have bought nearly as many stamps then as today.
Back then, a dollar equaled about 30 bucks in today’s dough. So a 12-cents stamp, the most fancy stamp you could get, one that would get a letter as far as you needed it to go—to one of the new states like, say, from Philly to Kentucky—would have cost between three and four bucks, if you’ll kindly do the math (because I can’t).
I just don’t understand why anyone would complain today that, for 50 cents, I can mail a check from my house to the insurance or electricity people instead of having to go to the actual address and hand it to the insurance or electricity people. It’s a bargain—and a lot better bargain than it was in 1792, when the “new” post office, in addition to other improvements, guaranteed lower mailing rates for newspapers, greatly advancing the idea of a free press.
Also back then the penalty for robbing a mail delivery person or stealing mail from the post office was death (see Sect. 17 of the Official Act). That’s right: The Big D. And you think 50 cents is a high price to pay.
Today the fine for such misguided tomfoolery is “only” five years in prison, which is no walk in the park but it beats having your mail and earthly address discontinued permanently.
So shut your pie hole!, you USPS bashers.
Finally, how do the mail sorters know how to do that? How can all this paperwork, all these envelopes of different sizes, come into One Building and people in there are fast enough, basically overnight, to get it into The Appropriate Piles?
And how do different carriers get My Mail to My House? Now and then I’ll get Jezebel or even Molly’s mail and will have to walk next door and trade, but still, even getting a letter from Fort Worth to within two doors of my house for half a dollar is cause for celebration, in my way of thinking.
Nobody’s perfect, but in a dog-eat-dog world, the USPS is carrying its weight and then some. Neither snow nor rain nor heat nor gloom of night—nor barking dog—stays these couriers from the swift completion of their appointed rounds. Hat tippage.
I should mail them a thank-you note. (Think they’ll get it?)
The Quitman Junior High School Track Meet has been rescheduled to be held on Wednesday, March 16th. The meet will begin with field events starting at 3:15pm. The meet was originally to be held on Monday but due to threat of bad weather it was decided to be moved until Wednesday.
The Student/Athlete of the Week of March 13th – 20th at Jonesboro-Hodge, Quitman and Weston High Schools has been named. The award is sponsored by the Jackson Parish Hospital and chosen by select faculty and staff at each school. The recipients were chosen based on their academic excellence and athletic achievements during the week.
After the 2021 football season Jonesboro-Hodge High School had a school record six players sign with colleges to continue their football career. With signing day having come and gone colleges recruiters are now turning their attention to the classes of 2023 and 2024.
Fortunately for JHHS the cupboard is not bare heading into next season and as result of their breakout performances last fall, several players “up and comers” have been contacted and have made or will be soon visiting colleges.
Atkins takes official visit to LSU
For junior to be linebacker Xavier Atkins this is old hat. After making visits and SEC schools Missouri, where he committed and Mississippi State, Atkins took a trip to Baton Rouge last week for an official visit to LSU. Soon he is expected to make a visit to Big 12 member Oklahoma State as well. Currently Atkins, who led the state of Louisiana in tackles, solo stops and tackles for a loss is rated 3-Stars by Rivals Recruiting Service.
Smith, Leonard invited to GSU Jr. Day
On April 2nd, Grambling State University will host their annual Junior Day where the top junior football players from last fall will get a chance to meet with the GSU football staff and new head coach Hue Jackson. Being invited from Jonesboro-Hodge is lineman Peyton Smith and defensive back / wide receiver Chase “Smoke” Leonard. Smith was the leading tackler among defensive linemen last year while Leonard was a key component as a two-way player for the Class AA state semifinalist Tigers.
The Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce (JPCC) is busying with preparation for the always popular Jackson Parish Sunshine Festival that will be held on Saturday, April 16th. Shown in the banner above is the 2022 T-shirt design and color. All orders must be in by Monday, March 21 morning at 10 o’clock. All shirts are $20 with exception of two XL $22, 3 XL $23 and four XL $24.00. Shirts must be pre-paid prior to ordering.
Flower Urn volunteers appreciated!
JPCC Director Wilda Smith extends thanks to Vernie Meeks, Barbara Johnson, Dean Rushing, Jonesboro Plumbing and Mercy Medical, who have adopted a flower urn in downtown Jonesboro. The project is designed to improve the appearance of the downtown area for the Sunshine Festival.
“Thanks for the replies as all flowers urns have been adopted,” reported Smith. “You can still show your support by sponsoring hanging baskets through the purchase of the plants, purchasing and planting the plants or donating money for the plants.”
The Quitman High School Future Farmers of America (FFA), Nursery and Landscaping team, recently placed 1st at the Area 1 Career Development Events (CDE) hosted by LA Tech. What makes their achievement all the more special is that the five-member team of Madison Taylor, Noah Leach, Emma Harper, Caden Brown, and Eliza Guin all are freshman.
Even more incredible is that Emma Harper was the highest scoring individual in the contest that consisted of 3 parts: (1) General knowledge exam (2) Identification of nursery plants (3) Identification of nursery tools and equipment
By virtue of their victory the team qualified for the state contest to be held at LSU on April 5th.
Two guys walked into a bar… actually it was a tavern called the “House of Lords” in New York City. The date was Friday, April 7, 1865. Sam and his friend had been close since they were children. In the tavern, Sam and his friend “drank considerably” and discussed Abraham Lincoln’s second presidential inauguration, which Sam’s friend had attended.
The morning of March 4, 1865, in Washington, D.C. was dark and gloomy. The rain came down in torrents. The dirt streets were “a sluice of mud.” One newspaper reported, “The Heavens wept profusely and the streets of Washington deluged in mud!” A short distance from the Capitol, a large procession gathered despite the hard rain. The group consisted of a military escort, firemen, and members of several different civic societies.
Despite the rain and muddy streets, streams of people of all “sexes, ages, colors and conditions” made their way to the Capitol to witness the historic ceremony. People also gathered on the sidewalks along Pennsylvania Avenue all the way to the White House, then known as “the Presidential mansion.” Carriages which would have been in great demand due to the inauguration were in even higher demand because of the weather. It would have been in bad form to arrive for the inauguration wearing dirty, soggy clothing. People who wanted to join the celebrations unsoiled by the rain and mud paid top dollar to ride in one of the city’s hundreds of carriages for hire. In order to make the most profit possible, carriage drivers kept the horses moving at a faster pace than would have been normal for the muddy conditions. Even though the carriages had fenders, the mud still sloshed onto passersby. The thin, wooden carriage wheels sliced deep into the mud and launched the sludge a great distance. Sitting in the tavern, Sam’s friend explained that he had taken such a carriage ride to the Capitol.
President Lincoln had arrived at the Capitol early that morning. He was not trying to beat the rain; it had rained on him the whole way. The President was busy “signing bills as fast as they were enrolled.” Shortly before the inauguration ceremony was to begin at the Capitol, the Presidential “equipage” left the Presidential mansion for the Capitol.
In the front of the procession was a strong force of police on horseback. Next came the military portion which consisted of a regiment of infantry (Veteran Reserves), a battalion of cavalry, and a battery of artillery. The Fire Brigade, which was comprised of government and city Fire Departments, and the visiting firemen from Philadelphia, followed. One newspaper reported, “This display was remarkably fine, and was one of the most attractive features in the procession.” The Presidential carriage, which carried Mrs. Mary Todd Lincoln and other members of the Presidential household, was escorted by a United States Marshal and the guard of black horse cavalry who were usually on duty at the Presidential mansion. As the carriage drove along Pennsylvania Avenue, the crowd struggled to see who was inside. The Presidential carriage was followed by several civic societies, State delegations and political associations, and a large number of citizens on horseback who had joined the parade of their own volition. The procession was much larger and imposing than had been anticipated considering the weather. While the procession was en route to the Capitol, the “clouds broke away, and the sun shone out with great splendor, giving the scene a bright and cheerful aspect.”
Inside the Capital building, last minute details pertaining to the inaugural ceremonies were finalized. Guards stood at the entrance on the eastern front. All other entrances to the Capital were closed. At ten o’clock, the doors to the eastern entrance were opened. Some people were crushed as the crowd rushed through the doors and scrambled to find seats. Within minutes, every available space in the chamber was occupied. Keeping order was nearly impossible.
Just before noon, the official procession, which consisted of members of the Supreme Court, President Lincoln and Vice President Hannibal Hamlin, members of the cabinet, and other government officials, filed into the chamber. Vice President Hamlin presented a heartfelt farewell speech. Vice President elect Andrew Johnson made a speech which was “remarkable only for its incoherence, which brought a blush to the cheek of every Senator and official of the government who was present.” Following his speech, Mr. Johnson took the oath of office as Vice President. Then came the moment that the crowd had come to see. The official procession moved to the platform in from of the portico of the eastern front of the Capitol. An estimated thirty to forty thousand people, most of which had to stand in the deep mud, broke out into enthusiastic cheers upon President Lincoln’s appearance before them.
At the table in the “House of Lords” tavern, Sam’s friend told him that he had a good view of President Lincoln. Unlike the majority of onlookers, his status was such that he was able to watch the inauguration from a clean, dry, raised balcony overlooking President Lincoln. Sam’s friend bragged that he had been as close to the President as he was to his friend sitting at the table. Sam’s friend was there when Lincoln spoke the words, “With malice toward none, with charity for all, with firmness in the right as God gives us to see the right, let us strive on to finish the work we are in to bind up the nation’s wounds…”
With the conclusion of President Lincoln’s speech, a battery of artillery stationed near the Capitol fired a national salute, and the jubilant onlookers cheered again. Sam’s friend watched as the procession returned to the interior of the Capitol and escorted Mr. Lincoln to the Presidential mansion. Sitting in the bar in New York, Sam listened intently as his friend shared the details of the day and was taken aback by what his friend said next. Sam’s friend struck the table and said, “What an excellent chance I had to killed the President, if I had wished, on inauguration day!” Exactly one week after Sam and his friend discussed the second inauguration at a tavern in New York City, April 14, 1865, Sam’s friend shot President Abraham Lincoln. Sam Chester’s friend was John Wilkes Booth.
The Jackson Parish Hospital is observing National Kidney Awareness Month by inviting you to get to know the role your kidney’s play in your overall health. To sum it up, there are four main areas about your kidneys that you should know.
What ways kidneys keep you healthy – (A) Regulates fluid levels (B) Activates Vitamin D for healthy bones (C) Filters wastes from the blood (D) Directs production of red blood cells (E) Regulates blood pressure (F) Keeps blood minerals in balance
Problems kidney disease can cause – (A) Nerve damage (B) Cardiovascular disease (C) Weak bones (D) Heart attack (E) High blood pressure (F) Stroke (G) Kidney Failure (H) Anemia
Risk factors – (A) Diabetes (B) Family history (C) High blood pressure (D) Age 60+
Symptoms – (A) Swelling in face, hands, abdomen, ankles and feet (B) Blood in urine, Foamy urine (C) Puffy eyes (D) Difficult, painful urination (E) Increased thirst (F) Fatigue
The public is invited to join with the Stein family, members of the Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce, friends and patrons at 3:00 pm at their 800 Pershing Hwy address for the gala event The menu offers farm raised crawfish, crabs, boiled shrimp and all the extras that go with it that can be purchased by the pound or on platters available for take-out or dining in. 
This shoot will be a causal start from 8:00am to 12:00pm. Concessions will be available. To register call Spanky at 318-613-4428.
