Earlier this past week, Lousiana Governor Jon Bel Edwards announced the state will dedicate $100 million in federal funds for 28 Design Support Program flood mitigation projects. Included is $1.57 million earmarked for the Village of Hodge for drainage improvements. 

“As we continue working to reduce flood risks throughout Louisiana, the state is not only funding projects but assisting local and regional partners in project design and development to make sure we are funding high-impact flood mitigation efforts that don’t adversely affect surrounding communities,” Gov. Edwards said. “This work is central to the mission of the Louisiana Watershed Initiative, improving the way we approach flood mitigation by working collaboratively to develop and fund projects best suited for investment in each watershed region.”

Funding for the Design Support Program and Round 2 is part of the state’s Action Plan to spend $1.2 billion in federal Community Development Block Grant Mitigation funds. Funding is to be distributed in three rounds. The Hodge project has been classified as a Round 2 initiative.

Round 2 will make strategic project investments and address the need to enhance project development capacity and geographic dispersion of projects statewide. Round 2 will continue to elevate nature-based solutions and to ensure federal grant requirements are met. The focus is on projects that benefit HUD-identified most impacted and distressed areas and low- to moderate-income populations, as well as projects that incorporate nature-based solutions.

To more information click here.

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The wait is almost over. After a long hot summer a breath of fresh air will cascade throughout stadiums all over the state of Louisiana in a few days as the 2022 LHSAA prep football season will finally open. For Jonesboro-Hodge High School, the first official regular season game will find the Tigers on the road against fellow Class 2A foe General Trass out of Lake Providence on Friday, September 2nd. Game time is set for 7:00pm.

Even though a roughly 2 1/2 hour road trip to the northeast corner of the state is in store, JHHS head coach Terrance Blankenship is eager to get the season 2022 started. 

“This is the day we have been working towards all summer,” said Blankenship. “The coaching staff and players alike have had this date circled on the calender ever since the season ended last year.”

The matchup is one of the premier season openers in the state as it pits two of last years top Class 2A programs in northeast Louisiana against each other. Each is coming off district championships from the year before and have many of the same similarities heading into this season. 

“When you look at one team you are basically looking at the other,” reflects Blankenship. “We mirror each other in a lot of ways, including both having to replace their top skill players from last year.” 

Both Jonesboro-Hodge, who will compete in district 3-2A this season after several years in district 1-2A, and General Trass out of district 2-2A, is expected to employ “run-first” offensive attack, especially in the early part of the season while the new quarterbacks of each gain more seasoning. 

“We will have a different look compared to what folks are used to seeing from us,” predicted Blankenship. “Instead of throwing the ball all over the field like the past couple of years, we will play to our strength, which is running behind our big line.”

2022 Jonesboro-Hodge Starting Lineup

OFFENSE 
Quarterback – Cameron Leonard 
Running back – Ed’Tavious Drayton
H-Back – Chance Leonard 
Wide Receiver – Savantez Phillips 
Wide Receiver – Omarrion Jackson 
Wide Receiver – Zion Gray 
Right Tackle – Dominick Strickland 
Right Guard – Josh Tatum 
Center – Braylen Leonard 
Left Guard – Austin Knotts 
Left Tackle – Cartavious Waters 
DEFENSE
Right End – Peyton Smith 
Right Tackle – Kehlin Boston 
Left Tackle – Cartavious Waters
Left End – Dominick Stickland
Inside Linebacker – Xavier Atkins 
Inside Linebacker – Karmakize Barber 
Cornerback – Cameron Leonard 
Cornerback – Omarrion Jackson 
Weak Safety – Jaylen Barnes 
Strong Safety – Ed’Tavious Drayton 
Free Safety Savantez Phillips Raynald Bolds

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Got a riddle for you! What does three for three, times two twice, represent? No, this is not one of those “new” math posers. Congratulations is offered if you know the answer and for you that don’t here is a little hint. During the month of August one of the more remarkable success stories you would ever want to read about has taken place.

In summary the answer is what the Quitman Jr. High basketball program has acheived. To break it down, the three for three stands for the three straight games won at the Dodson Tourney. Times two, twice, represents the second straight tourney that both the boys and girls teams have won in undefeated fashion.

In regard to this being a remarkable feat……

Both junior programs are putting on performances that you rarely see at this level. It is not the perfect, 7-0 record that both had acheived to date but the way they are both winning, which is in two totally but very impressive different fashions.

The girls are winning through suffocating defensive pressure that now has improved their streak of not allowing an opponent to score over five points in a quarter to an incredible 28 straight frames. Only once this season has Quitman allowed a team to even reach double figures in points for the game.

Naturally, such success can be attributed to great coaching. This should come as no surpise as the junior girls are under the tutelage of Kyle Leach, who has led the QHS vartisty girls to four straight district championships. In typical fashion, Leach refuses to take credit but instead gives praise to the 19 girls that are on the roster. 

“We are blessed to have so many girls that wanted to be part of the team,” said Leach. “It has created a very competitive environment as only five can be on the floor at one time so they all work really hard in practice and when they get their chance to play.”

The boys are doing it by simply running away from everyone they have played. In the Dodson Tourney, Normally it is considered good when a junior high team reaches 30 points in a game. QJH has not scored less than 38 in any game played this season. In Dodson they really amped it up by totaling 148 points over the three games played. That equates to a 49.33 points per game average. WOW! 

The recipe that head coach Mike Black has concocted that is giving the sweet taste of success is made up of the perfect ingredients. QJH has outstanding height that controls the paint and a bevy of playmakers and shooters. The deep and talented, 13 player roster, also allows for continued fresh bodies to apply the pressure throughout the game. 

QJH Girls Results at Dodson Tourney

Quitman 26 Atlanta 8: Racing out to an 11-2 first quarter lead, QJH did all their damage in the first three frames. Anna Leach led with nine points in the first half, one more than Atlanta managed all game. Emma Walker also came up big with eight points followed by Taylor Borland with four and three from Hallie Kate Pullig. Brooklyn Brown also added a basket.

TEAM	1	2	3	4	TOTAL
Atlanta	4	2	0	2	8
Quitman	11	6	9	0	26

Quitman 47 Weston 6: The rematch of the contest played in the Weston Tourney between the two parish rivals was no contest. QJh took their most lopsided victory of the year but as head coach Kyle Leach said it really wasn’t a fair matchup due to roughly half of the Weston team and several starters missing due to a COVID outbreak. 

“It really wasn’t fair to Jennifer (WJH head coach Jennifer Tolar) and her girls to have to play with what they were dealing with,” said Leach. “They gave it all they had but were just missing to many players.”

Through the utilization of a swarming full court pressure defense, Quitman stormed to a 17-2 first half lead and then doubled their total with a season best, 17 points in the third quarter alone. Leach graciously pulled his starters but the scoring parade continued as the deep bench tallied 13 in the fourth period.

A season best 11 players scored for Quitman led by 9 from Lanee Cheatwood. Additional contributors were: Anna Leach – 7, Nyesha Johnson – 6 (season high), Allie Robertson – 5 (season high), Emma Walker – 4, Hallie Kate Pullig – 4, Braelyn Patton – 4 (season high), Taylor Borland – 2, Brooklyn Brown – 2, Breelyn Boone – 2, Klea Blalock – 2. Brooklyn Johnson scored a season best five points to lead Weston, including her first three pointer of the year. Allison Morgan also made a free throw. 

TEAM	1	2	3	4	TOTAL
Quitman	8	9	17	13	47
Weston	2	0	0	4	6

Quitman 28 Calvin 9: Hallie Kate Pullig scored all five of her points in the first quarter, Anna Leach added four and Taylor Borland pitched in a basket to pace QJH to an 11-2 lead, which was more then enough to subdue their Winn Parish foe. Leach finished with nine points followed by six from Emma Walker and Pullig’s five. Taylor Borland scored four and Brooklyn Brown hit a free throw to round out the scoring.  

TEAM	1	2	3	4	TOTAL
Quitman	11	5	6	6	28
Calvin	2	0	4	3	9

QJH boys results at Dodson Tourney 

Quitman 47 Atlanta 21: Treating fans to the double feature of “Taden Time” and the “Best of Brayden” QJH raced out to 12 point first quarter lead that balloned to a 32-19 advantage by the half. Bouyed by a pair of three pointers, Thomas led the way with 12 of his 14 points on the night, both season bests for a quarter and game. Martin was almost just as effective, chipping in with nine of his 11 in the game, as the pair combined for all of Quitman’s 21 first quarter points. Rylan Reynolds added seven on the night, Caden Jackson had five and Kobie Williams finished with four. Matthew Odom added his first three pointer of the year. Jack Thomas and Hayden Seymore added a basket as did Aiden Rhodes, for his first points of the year. 

TEAM	1	2	3	4	TOTAL
Quitman	21	11	10	5	47
Atlanta	9	0	5	7	21

Quitman 54 Weston 22: Much like the first time the two Jackson Parish rivals squared off, the first quarter was close with the Wolverines dominating the final three frames. After holding only a 9-7 lead after one, Quitman went into the half with a 24-12 advantage before exploding for 30 second half points to win going away. Shane Reed scored 17 and Brayden Martin added 14 to lead the offensive onslaught that set a new season game scoring total.  Taden Thomas scored all eight of his points in the second quarter that  included a pair of threes for the second straight game. Jack Thomas and Hayden Seymore chipped in with three each.Kobie Williams added a basket and Asher Rhodes tallied his first two of the year to round out the scoring. Brody Tidwell and Ty Henderson led Weston with nine and eight repectivelly with John Mchael Gandy and Ashad Harris pitching in with two each. Alex Lewis also scored a point. 

TEAM	1	2	3	4	TOTAL
Quitman	9	15	11	19	54
Weston	7	5	5	5	22

Quitman 47 Calvin 10: The Wolverines stole a page from the girls handbook while continuing to add to their own legacy. For the third straight game, Quitman didn’t allow double digits to be posted in any single quarter and scored 47 or more over the same time period. Jack Thomas and Hayden Seymore set new season scoring highs with eight apiece and once again, Shane Reed and Brayden Martin led the offense with 13 and 10 respectively. Taden Thomas pitched in with four and Aiden Rhodes and Caden Jackson had two each. 

TEAM	1	2	3	4	TOTAL
Quitman	16	11	14	6	47
Calvin	2	2	2	4	10

This past Friday, the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development announced that the LA 505 bridge closure will be extended through September 2, 2022, due to weather delays and unforeseen circumstances.

The road that ties Hwy 167 to Hwy 4 has been closed since Monday, August 8, 2022, LA 505 beginning approximately 1.6 miles east of its intersection with US 167 in Jackson Parish, La. The original projection was for the road to be closed for only ten days while routine maintenance was done. 

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In partnership with Jonesboro-Hodge Elementary School the Jackson Parish Library is proud to host a Coat Drive. Contributors are asked to drop off their gently used jackets and coats of any size at either the Jonesboro or Chatham branch during normal business hours. Your thoughtful and benevolent act will be of great help to needy children and families in the area this coming winter. 

Jonesboro Branch address: 614 South Polk Avenue
Phone number: (318) 259 5697

Chatham Branch address: 1500 Pine Street
Phone number: (318) 249 – 2980 

 

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Local residents needing assistance with their Food Stamp application, understanding the report or filing for redetermination is invited to visit with Ms. Jerlissa Elzy at the Jonesboro and Chatham branches of the Jackson Parish Library on Friday, September 2nd. 

Ms. Elzy will be available by appointment at the Chatham Branch from 9:00am – 11:30pm before coming to the Jonesboro branch from 1:00pm  – 3:00pm. Appointments can be made by either coming by either location prior to Friday or by calling (318) 259-5697 or (318) 249 – 2980. 

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The Jonesboro-Hodge Elementary School administration is excited to have some new faces this school year. Pictured above are Rachelle Mason, School Counselor; Tristen Bergholtz, School Counselor; Danielle Copeland, Principal; Jacob Barron, Assistant Principal

Danielle Copeland, Principal, is new to Jonesboro-Hodge Elementary in the role as principal but is familiar with the school as she previously worked at J-HES while completing her student teaching requirements and as a first-year teacher. This is her 9th year in education and she is looking forward to helping students grow and achieve their academic goals.

Tristen Bergholtz, School Counselor, is joining the J-HES Tiger Family and helping facilitate the Wraparound Program. Students and their families can benefit from the weekend backpack meals, school uniform and supplies closet, Telemed health services, counseling supports, and family engagement events held throughout the year. The goals of the Wraparound Programs are to increase family involvement, academic achievement, student attendance, social-emotional wellness supports, and access to basic needs such as food and clothing.

Rachelle Mason, School Counselor, is entering her 19th year in education. She helps serve J-HES and J-HMS students.

Jacob Barron, Assistant Principal, is spearheading the Positive Behavior Intervention and Supports program, as well as the Title I committee this school year.

Keyshawn Jones named Student of the Month 

Keyshawn Jones has been named the Student of the Month for August at the Jonesboro-Hodge Elementary School. Jones was selected for his exemplary behavior and attendance from the previous school year. He was presented with a Fortnite Nerf Blaster as a reward by the PBIS team.  

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The Weston Junior High girls basketball team beat Castor 13-11 this past Monday to win their first of the year. The boys team also won by a 27-22 margin to give the Wolves/Lady Wolves a sweep. The victories improved the girls to 1-2 on the year while the boys moved past the .500 mark at 3-2.

For head coach Jennifer Tolar and her crew the victory was very sweet as her squad has suffered through more adversity in just a few weeks than most go through in a full year. Already this season, the junior girls squad has lost two players due to knee injuries and just last weekend had over half the team, including several starters unavailable for the Dodson Tourney due to the COVID pandemic.

“I am so proud of the girls for not making excuses and continuing to work hard,” said Tolar. “It is good to get this win as they deserve to taste some success after all they have gone through.”

A first quarter free throw by Baylee Brown was the only point scored by either team in the first quarter and gave Weston their first lead of the year. Brooklyn Johnson and Jazzmine Stuckey added baskets in the second and along with another free throw by Brown, Weston went into the half with a 6-2 lead. Brown added two baskets in the third to up the lead to 10-5 by the end of three. Carlynn Waters added three critical points in the final frame that stymied a late Castor charge and give Weston the two point win.

TEAM	1	2	3	4	TOTAL
Weston	1	5	4	3	13
Castor	0	2	3	6	11

Tidwell leads boys to win

Brody Tidwell scored six in the second and five in the fourth on his way to a game high 14 points to lift the Wolves to their third win of the year. The outburst came at the right time also as his points helped Weston break ties after the first and third quarters. Ty Henderson also came up clutch by making six of eight free throws and Ashad Harris pitched in with five. Alex Lewis also made two free throws. 

TEAM	1	2	3	4	TOTAL
Weston	5	12	2	8	27
Castor	5	6	8	3	22

On August 21, 2022, James E. Bradford was conferred the Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters Degree by the United Theological Seminary and Bible College. The degree was conferred by Dr. Robby D. Williams, President of United Theological Seminary and Bible College. This degree is given to an individual who has made tangible, observable, and ocular contributions to their community, church, and city.

When conferring Mr. Bradford with the honorary degree during the Annual Homecoming Celebration at Pleasant Grove Missionary Baptist Church in Jonesboro, Louisiana, Dr. Williams stated that Mr. Bradford is only the twelfth recipient of this distinction since the 63 years of the college’s existence. During Mr. Bradford’s acceptance remarks he stated, “You never know who is watching you and I am grateful. Thank you.”

Mr. Bradford has committed uninterrupted service to the Pleasant Grove Missionary Baptist Church for over seven decades. Additionally, he has diligently served his family, Grambling State University, the State of Louisiana, and numerous other civic and social organizations. He is the epitome of a servant-leader and has truly earned these letters through his service, volunteerism, and philanthropic contributions. The family and friends of Mr. Bradford are appreciative to Dr. Williams and the United Theological Seminary Bible College for “Giving him his flowers while he lives.”

Congratulations Dr. James E. Bradford!

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The Jackson Parish Hospital (JPH) is pleased to announce that the winners of the inaugural 2022-23 Student Athlete of the Week has been selected. The ongoing program that the JPH has sponsored for the past several years, recognizes a student athlete from Jonesboro-Hodge, Quitman and Weston High Schools as chosen by select faculty and staff from each school. The honorees are selected by best exemplifing what it means to be a true student athlete through academic acheivement and athletic accomplishment. 

Student Athlete of the Week (August 29th – September 2nd)

Dominick Strickland (Senior) – Football player at Jonesboro-Hodge
Anna Claire Leach (8th Grade) – Girls basketball player at Quitman
Brody Tidwell (8th Grade) – Boys basketball player at Weston

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The following is a Public Service Announcement from The Division of the Least of These Things to Worry About, Ever, My Brethren.

A guy created a website and, for a while there, had people believing he’d recruited well-meaning and caring atheists who’d care for the pets of Christians after their rapture.

In other words, “Send money. Rest easy.”

I’ll hang on a second while you read that again because me my own self had to ponder it too, the first time I heard it; I had never had the thought either. Ever. And it’s not because I don’t love my pets. I do. But … while I’ve heard bizarre things, this might be at the top of the heap.

Bizarro Mountain.

Bizarro Mountain Range, even.

NPR reported that a guy charged “hundreds of people more than $100 apiece, promising the business would care for their pets after the owners were carried up to Heaven. The self-described animal-loving atheist called his site Eternal Earth-Bound Pets. The New Hampshire Insurance Department thought some monkey business might be going on and decided to investigate”.

Props to the New Hampshire Insurance Department, which seldom gets props.

Life’s not fair.

Anyway, the New Hampshire Insurance Department guy in charge of Pre-Rapture Pets, Etc. guy said it was a hoax. Which it was, same as the After the Rapture Pet Care site inventor admitted.

I think they said this pre-rapture. Lord, I hope so.

But I’ll give both guys points for creativity.

For my pet’s future, I’d bet it on the After the Rapture Pet Care guy. He charged only a $10 registration fee, because those Left Behind were going to “care for the pets they rescue as their own, including being financially responsible for them,” the site claimed.

Indulge me for a sec, and if you’ve read this far, you already have. The After the Rapture Pet Care guy, or (ATRPCG), also typed this on his site, under the ingenious “Frequently Asked Questions” part, (which I thought was a nice touch):

Who are these Volunteer Pet Caretakers and how do I know they’ll take good care of my pets?

Most Volunteer Pet Caretakers fit this description:

They are atheists or another non-Christian religion;
They love animals enough to register with us even though they do not believe there will be a Rapture (or are agnostic about it);
(My words, because this bullet point was the part about how they’d treat your pets as their own — their still-alive-but-non-raptured own.)
Another of the FAQ’s questions is, “Isn’t the world going to be totally collapsed after the Rapture?” It’s a long answer on the website, but the short answer from this bureau is, “Yes. That’s an affirm. Bet your hat. If you have gift cards, use them ASAP. If you have one from After the Rapture Pet Care, well … ”

Lord have mercy …

We conclude with a sobering thought, I think from Mark Twain, and it’s one of my favorite thoughts, at least one of my favorite sobering ones, and should ease the mind of all us pet lovers who are worried about how things might end up for animals we loved, as if God who created them isn’t aware:

“Heaven goes by favor. If it went by merit, you would stay out and your dog would go in.”

Amen.

Contact Teddy at teddy@latech.edu

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(By: Gary McCoy) Hunting season will begin this Saturday, September 3, with opening day of dove season. ith that in mind, if you plan to spend the upcoming Fall and Winter hunting in Louisiana, time is short for a number of last-minute things you need to take care of.

Here is a reminder of what you need to take care of to help ensure a safe and fun outing. 

Get Your Hunting License

Securing your Louisiana hunting license couldn’t be easier. While you can purchase all your needed licenses at many sports and retail stores, they can also be purchased online at wlf.louisiana.gov and all the info including your deer and turkey tags can be transferred directly to your LA Wallet on your cell phone

Knowing what and where you’ll hunt is iimportant. Should you plan to hunt doves or ducks in Louisiana, along with your basic hunting license, you’ll need your Federal and Louisiana State duck stamps and you’ll need the H.I.P. certification. (The HIP certification is FREE, but you MUST apply for it to hunt migratory game birds in Louisiana)

If you’re planning to hunt deer, you need your basic hunting license and your big game license.

If you’re only planning to hunt squirrel, BUT you’re planning to do that on one of our many Wildlife Management Areas, you’ll need your basic hunting license, but you’ll also need the WMA permit.

Secure Your Ammunition

Twenty years ago, this suggestion probably wouldn’t have even been a footnote on a checklist like this. However, this has become one of the biggest roadblocks for many hunters over the last several years.

If you haven’t got plenty of ammunition left over from last year, you’ll want to begin that search now. And don’t just limit yourself to an online search, get out and physically look at every ammunition dealer you can think of. From sporting goods stores to retail outlets or even pawn shops, someone should have it or can order for you, but don’t wait too long.

Sight In Your Deer Rifle/Shoot Your Bow/Shoot The Shotgun

Just because Old Bessie, your trusted 30-06, was dead on at the end of last season, doesn’t mean she’s still dead on this year. Spend the time to get her properly sighted in so that you can make that ethical, lethal shot when the time comes.

Archers should spend time every week between now and the opening of season shooting. Practice does make perfect, and the expectation a hunter should have of himself is perfect, ethical performance.

Bird hunters might want to spend some time skeet shooting to retrain the eye. Now is also a good time to experiment with different shell manufacturers, load sizes and such, to see if you’ve been missing out on a better product.

Check Your Accessories

Duck hunters will want to examine the blind for any needed repairs and begin to re-brush it. Check your waders and patch any holes. Do some of your decoys need to be tossed or given a fresh coat of paint? Do any of your call reeds need replacing? Is the shotgun ready for another long, wet season? If not, it’s time to send it to the gunsmith or consider purchasing a new one.

Deer hunters who hunt on private land will want to begin bush hogging access roads and preparing food plots. Bush hog, disc and plant. Check deer stands for safety issues. Replace anything that could lead to injury; ladders, steps, floor. Also want to make sure they are wasp and snake free. Put fresh batteries in your corn feeder and check for any needed repairs. Fill them up and keep an eye on them for issues that pop up. Put out game cameras and monitor for pre-season movement.

All hunters should stock up on Thermacell supplies. Early season mosquitoes can ruin a trip quicker than anything. Might also want to make sure your heater is still in good condition and that you have plenty of propane bottles on hand for those cold winter mornings. Check all of your boots and clothing; especially cold and rain gear. Nothing ends a trip quicker than cold and wet.

While there are plenty of other suggestions that could have made this list, this should pretty well have you prepared. Just be safe and hopefully you’ll take a child with you so that you can pass on the love of the outdoors.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Louisiana has adopted the state’s first accountability system for kindergarten through second grade. The Louisiana Department of Education’s (LDOE) literacy-focused plan was recently approved by the Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE).

This landmark action closes a glaring gap in our accountability system and embraces a fundamental shift in how we’re teaching children to read,” said State Superintendent Dr. Cade Brumley. “Not only has our state rallied behind this commitment to our early learners, but we’re continuing to see momentum build behind Louisiana’s reading revival.”

While Louisiana has a nationally recognized early childhood quality rating system and a robust 3-12 accountability system, the state lacked a strong measure of how students in grades K-2 were performing prior to Wednesday’s vote.

Accountability systems identify what student success looks like and measure progress towards those outcomes. When student goals are clearly defined, educators can drive change by aligning resources to priorities. This K-2 accountability plan will encourage educators to embrace this fundamental shift in literacy instruction.

Louisiana’s new K-2 accountability is part of a comprehensive literacy strategy that emphasizes the Science of Reading. Students in grades K-2 will take a literacy indicator that measures early literacy skills, ensuring they are making adequate progress. Those results will be reflected in annual School Performance Scores and District Performance Scores. Students will begin taking the literacy indicator during the 2024-25 school year.

Also, schools will be incentivized to utilize research-based instructional rubrics in early education focusing on best practices in teaching and learning.

“This long-awaited enhancement to Louisiana’s accountability system will be an important tool in improving early literacy in our state,” said BESE President Jim Garvey. “Accurately measuring and reporting the progress of basic skills development in grades K-2 is critical in helping system leaders and parents identify obstacles to reading, and ensuring that our youngest learners are on track for academic success.”

Wednesday’s vote comes after more than two years of stakeholder engagement, research, and planning by LDOE. While K-2 accountability currently focuses on early literacy, LDOE will also begin exploring the possibility of adding a math component in the future.

“We took an important step to include age appropriate K-2 assessments in how we communicate school performance,” said Assistant Superintendent of Assessments, Accountability & Analytics Thomas Lambert. “Reliable and consistent data will help ensure our students are ready to master 3rd grade skills. Literacy matters–we must know how our students are doing in order to provide support and help Louisiana’s kids grow.”

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Defending Class 2A state semi-finalist, Jonesboro-Hodge High School, received just four votes in the 2022 preseason poll submitted by the Louisiana Sports Writers Association. The Tigers were one of seven schools from north Louisiana that was listed among the top 20 schools among “select” and “non-select” schools. 

At the top of the list was 2021 state runner-up Many, who is the odds on favorite to win Jonesboro-Hodge’s new district, 3-2A.  Other schools from north Louisiana were Oak Grove of district 2-2A and Calvary Baptist, new to district 1-2A, both who moved up from Class A, at #5 and #8 respectively. Mangham also out of district 2-2A and who the Tigers beat in the second round of the playoffs last year is at #9 followed by North Caddo, who hails from JH’s former district, 1-2A at #10. JH’s season opening opponent, General Trass was also in the receiving votes category with ten. 

Class 2A Preseason Poll (first place votes in parenthesis)

Many (9) 0-0 119
St. Charles Catholic (1) 0-0 109
Newman 0-0 89
Notre Dame 0-0 86
Oak Grove 0-0 77
Dunham 0-0 56
Avoyelles 0-0 53
Calvary Baptist 0-0 37
Mangham 0-0 32
North Caddo 0-0 30
Others receiving votes: Loreauville 24, Rosepine 17, Episcopal-Baton Rouge 13, Ascension Episcopal 11, General Trass 10, East Feliciana 7, Franklin 5, Jonesboro-Hodge 4, Welsh 2.

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Jonesboro Cub Scout Pack 523 inivites parents and those interested in joining the Cub Scouts to Recruiting Night that will be held on September 8th at 6:00pm at Life Church in Jonesboro, located at 735 Pershing Hwy. Boys and girls from Kindergarten  to the 5th grade are eligible to enroll. 

What is a Cub Scout?

Cub Scouts are boys & girls that are looking for adventure. We get to camp, hike, fish, climb rock walls, race in pinewood derbies, shoot BB guns and bows, & fire slingshots.

But Cub Scouts do so much more! We help with community service projects, tour museums, participate in national & state park outings, and explore aquariums, science centers, and zoos.

Better yet, this isn’t just a place for your children, it’s a place for adults as well! Adults will go on all of the exciting adventures and do the hands-on projects right along side their Scouts. Just like your Cub Scout, you will be connecting with friends & experiencing new things.

What if my child isn’t into camping or outdoor activities? No problem, Scouting isn’t all about the outdoors!

When Scouting started over 112 years ago it was very much about the outdoors, but now being a Scout is so much more! We will be learning about citizenship, working as a team, building relationships, science (STEM), first aid, etc. Cub Scouts is a place where your child will grow & learn outside of a school setting. We don’t give grades, we always “Do our Best”, scouting is a safe place to fail. A lot of times children grow up worried about being perfect in school with grades, sports, making clubs or teams! This is not the case with Scouts! They will learn that failure is ok as long as they walk away with a vision for improvement.

If you are saying to yourself, that all sounds great but I don’t have the time! You are correct you have limited time! Your child is already 5 – 10 years old right now. A portion of their childhood has already passed! Make sure you are spending what precious time that’s left in a positive way with them today! Cub Scouts can be just the one-on-one time you’ve been looking for.

For more information see us on recruiting night or visit beascout.org for more information.

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Red was small for his age, smaller than the other kids in his neighborhood of Yorkville, New York. In the first decade of the twentieth century, all young boys were expected, with few exceptions, to join the neighborhood gang. To be exempted and respected, a boy had to have a good excuse such as being crippled, small, or having tuberculosis. Even then it might earn a nickname such as gimpy, short sh*t, lungsy, or coughy.

“I wanted no part of running the gang,” explained Red during their elderly years, “and size was a prerequisite of power. The biggest kid usually took control simply because he was the biggest. He could have been stupid, as some of the leaders were. But because he was big, he was the boss. That was fine with me. I never ran with the gang anyway.”

Red’s two brothers were on the smaller side as well. For this reason, their mother began teaching them to box.

In the evenings after school, Red’s mother cleared the small living room in their meager home and used it as a boxing ring. Two brothers boxed while the third one rested, all the while Red’s mother instructed them on foot movements, types of punches, and blocks. Red’s mother had learned about boxing from Red’s father, an amateur boxer turned bartender, who was usually away from home in a drunken stupor. When the bouts got too heated, as they often did, Red’s mother separated the boys and explained that to lose their tempers meant losing the fight. The boys and Red’s mother quickly noticed that Red had a knack for boxing. He was light on his feet, could get in, jab a punch, and get out before his opponent could react.

Word spread quickly to the boys in the neighborhood gang. “They would call me in to beat up a bully,” Red said. “The gang knew I was available. I became a kind of combination troubleshooter-backup man and never really part of the gang.”

The streets were full of bullies who pushed the younger, weaker kids around, usually to take what little money or candy they had. “Send for Red” became a regular request, and Red would appear and “clean some kid’s clock” who was usually far superior in physique. Red disliked having to fight on the streets, but he disliked bullies even more.

One day, Ed, Red’s younger and smaller brother, whom his family always referred to as Gentle Ed, was playing with a golf ball he had found in the street. A new bully on the block spied the golf ball and wanted it for his own. While the golf ball was in mid-bounce, the bully darted in, pushed Gentle Ed to the ground, and grabbed the golf ball. Gentle Ed tried to reclaim the ball, but the bully shoved him to the pavement. Gentle Ed tried again, and the bully shoved him harder. This continued until Gentle Ed was bruised and bleeding. Gentle Ed returned home and told Red about the incident.

In a fury, Red began searching the neighborhood for the bully. When they finally met, a fight broke out like nothing any of the boys, especially Red, had ever seen. The bully not only took Red’s punches but was able to return them in equal measure. A large crowd gathered to watch. The boys fought tit for tat until a policeman broke them apart. They met up the next day at a prearranged spot and the fight continued. A larger crowd gathered before a policeman broke them apart again. On the third day, an even larger crowd gathered to watch what, to them, looked almost like a professional boxing match.

One woman yelled over the crowd, “These boys are killing each other. Where are their mothers?” No one knows where the bully’s mother was, but Red’s mother was in the crowd cheering for Red. During the bout, Red had broken four bones in his left fist, but the adrenaline allowed him to keep fighting. The bully sustained several injuries and was bleeding severely. Finally, the boys realized it was a draw and ended the fight with the stipulation that they would finish the fight once they had both healed.

In his adult life, Red became what he detested as a child, a bully, and a gangster. Red detested the bully in his childhood, but he used those experiences to his advantage. Red and the bully never met again. The bully eventually became a semi-professional boxer. During the Great Depression, more than two decades after the boys fought, the bully sent Red a letter in which he explained that he, the bully, had fallen on hard times. The bully knew that Red had become successful and asked for, not money, not food, but for cigarettes and any extra clothing that Red could spare. Red sent the former bully a package with the requested items along with an undisclosed amount of cash.

You see, Red was only a bully and a gangster in films. He played characters based on the bullies he had known during his childhood. In real life, Red was described by everyone who knew him as a sweet, kind, and gentle man, which was exactly the opposite of the characters he was known for playing. So different were the parts Red played that Orson Welles opined, “[Red] maybe the greatest actor who ever appeared in front of a camera.”

The kids in his old neighborhood knew him as Red, but you and I know him as James Cagney.

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Caldwell Memorial Hospital and staff are proud to announce that Amber Etheridge, MSN, FNP-C will be the new nurse practitioner at the Chatham Rural Health Clinic.

Amber has worked in Columbia at Winters Clinic for 3 years and is excited to make the transition to serve the community and surrounding areas of Chatham. Amber was raised in Caldwell Parish and graduated from Caldwell Parish High School. She then continued her education at the University of Louisiana at Monroe and obtained her Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Amber served patients at the bedside for several years before returning to Maryville University where she obtained her Masters of Science in Nursing. She is a Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner through the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners.

Amber is married to Josh Etheridge and they have 2 precious boys, Kason (7) and Kastor (5). She also has two fur babies Thor and Loki. Amber and her family are members of North Monroe Baptist Church.

Amber is accepting new patients of all ages and is looking forward to assisting you with your healthcare needs.

Accepting New Patients!

Medicare – Medicaid – Kid-Med – Commercial Insurance

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The Jackson Women’s Missionary Union is pleased to announce the 2022 Crafty Care Mission Benefit will be held on September 10th at the First Baptist Church in Jonesboro, located at 500 South Cooper Avenue. 

The popular fundraider will begin at 8:00am and run until 2:00pm allowing for visitors to “sip and shop” while perusing through the variety of items for sale. All monies received, through payment or donations of cashe or check go towards the benefit of local missions.

Everything from homemade baked goods, jellies and canned items, gumbo and soup to frozen casseroles, beignets and coffee will be on sale to fulfill even the hardiest of appetites. Also  handcrafted items, antiques and collectables will be available for purchase. 

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To have your job opportunities, business services or items you have for sale listed or any Legal/Public Notices, Advertisements for Bid, Requests for Proposals and/or Quotes listed – send email to: jpjjacksonla@gmail.com

BUSINESS SERVICES

Stump Removal and Grinding: Call James Stewart at (318) 763-2554 or (318) 243-1009 for your stump removal and grinding needs. Free Estimates! 

 

Johnny’s Stump Removal: No job too small or too large. Call Johnny McConnell at 318-548-5577 for stump grinding, clean up, top soil fill and other odd jobs. We have over 30 years of experience and insured. Mention code: Jackson Boot to receive a discount. 

 

Quality Electrical & Controls Service: Over 60 years of combined  Lic  Licensed and Certified experience in Residential, Commercial, Industrial, Control Panels, Electrical, HVAC and Inspections service. Located at 5039 Hwy 4 East, Jonesboro, LA. Contact: Billy Earl Wilhite: (318) 475-2403 or Richard Andrews: (318) 475-5136.  

FOR SALE

Book – “100 year history of JHHS football” 

A year-by-year description of the first 100 years (1919-2019) of JHHS football. Included is summary of early beginnings, yearly results, rosters, updated team and individual records and a gallery of pictures. Perfect gift for that grandfather, father, son, grandson, brother, uncle or cousin who would enjoy remembering their “glory days”. Cost is $25.00 per book plus $3.00 shipping and handling. To order call (318) 480-1206 or send email to: jpjjacksonla@gmail.com

Commemorative Plates – Beautifully etched china plates commemorating Jonesboro-Hodge High School and Jackson Parish. To order contact Wilda Smith at (318)426-6511 or Barbara Johnson at (318) 450-5561.

PUBLIC/LEGAL NOTICES

SHERIFF’S SALE

MIDFIRST BANK
# 36798

PARISH OF JACKSON
STATE OF LOUISIANA

TAMMIE L. FOSTER
A/K/A TAMMIE LASHAY FOSTER WILEY

BEGINNING AT THE SE CORNER OF SE 1/4 OF NE 1/4 OF SECTION 4, TOWNSHIP 15 NORTH, RANGE I WEST AND RUN NORTH 586 FEET TO THE STATE HIGHWAY #17, THENCE RUN NORTHWEST 895 FEET FOR A STARTING POINT, THENCE RUN SOUTHWEST AND PERPENDICULAR TO THE HIGHWAY 150 FEET, THENCE RUN NORTHWEST PARALLEL TO THE HIGHWAY 60 FEET, THENCE RUN NORTHEAST AND PERPENDICULAR TO THE HIGHWAY 150 FEET, THENCE RUN SOUTHEAST AND ALONG THE HIGHWAY 60 FEET TO THE STARTING POINT, TOGETHER WITH ALL IMPROVEMENTS THEREON AND APPURTENANCES THEREUNTO BELONGING, LOCATED IN JACKSON PARJSH, LOUISIANA.

AND BEGINNING AT THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF SE 1/4 OF NE 1/4 OF SECTION 4, TOWNSHIP 15 NORTH, RANGE I WEST AND RUN NORTH 586 FEET TO THE STATE HIGHWAY 146, THENCE RUN NORTHWEST 955 FEET TO THE STARTING POINT, THENCE RUN SOUTHWEST PERPENDICULAR TO THE HIGHWAY 150 FEET, THENCE RUN NORTHWEST PARALLEL TO THE HIGHWAY 60 FEET, THENCE RUN NORTHEAST AND PERPENDICULAR TO THE HIGHWAY 150 FEET, THENCE RUN SOUTHEAST AND ALONG THE HIGHWAY 60 FEET TO THE STARTING POINT TOGETHER WITH ALL IMPROVEMENTS THEREON AND APPURTENANCES THEREUNTO BELONGING, LOCATED IN JACKSON PARISH, LOUISIANA; SUBJECT TO RESTRICTIONS, SERVITUDES, RIGHTS-OF-WAY AND OUTSTANDING MINERAL RIGHTS OF RECORD AFFECTING THE PROPERTY.

THAT CERTAIN MANUFACTURED/MOBILE HOME SITUATED ON THE ABOVE DESCRIBED PROPERTY, BEING
A 2005, CAPPAERT 3802, MANUFACTURED HOME, SERJAL NO. CHVM040587621932A AND
CHVM04058761932B, 75.6 X 27.5, WHICH SAID MANUFACTURED HOME/MOBILE HOME WAS IMMOBILIZED PURSUANT TO ACT OF IMMOBILIZATION DATED MAY 0 I, 2006 AND FILED FOR RECORD AS INSTRUMENT NO, 369394 OF THE RECORDS OF JACKSON PARJSH, LOUISIANA.

Seized as the property of the above named defendant and will be sold to satisfy said Writ and all cost, sale to be made for cash with WITHOUT the benefit of appraisal.

ANDY BROWN, SHERIFF
EX-OFFICIO, AUCTIONEER

SHERIFFS SALE

HODGE BANK & TRUST COMPANY
# 36619

PARISH OF JACKSON
STATE OF LOUISIANA

ASHLEY COLLETTE WALKER
INDIVIDUALLY AND AS NATURAL TUTRIX
FOR MrNOR

A CERTAIN LOT OR PARCEL OF GROUND SITUATED IN JACKSON PARISH, LOUISIANA, TOGETHER WITH ALL BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON, APPURTENANCES THEREUNTO BELONGING, SITUATED IN THE SALTER SUBDIVISION AS REVISED, AND ON FILE IN THE OFFICE OF THE CLERK AND RECORDER OF JACKSON PARJSH, IN CONVEYANCE BOOK OF PLATS A, PAGE 5 OF THE CONVEYANCE RECORDS OF JACKSON PARISH AS LOT SIX (6) OF SAID SUBDIVISION.

TOGETHER WITH ANY AND ALL PRESENT AND FUTURE BUILDINGS, CONSTRUCTIONS, COMPONENT PARTS, IMPROVEMENTS, ATTACHMENTS, APPURTENANCES, FIXTURES, RIGHTS, WAYS, PRIVILEGES, ADVANTAGES, BATTURE, AND BATTURE RlGHTS, SERVITUDES AND EASEMENTS OF EVERY TYPE AND DESCRIPTION, NOW AND/OR IN THE FUTURE RELATING TO THE PROPERTY, AND ANY AND ALL ITEMS AND FIXTURES ATTACHED TO AND/OR FORMING INTEGRAL OR COMPONENT PARTS OF THE PROPERTY IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE LOUISIANA CIVIL CODE.

THIS PROPERTY OR ITS ADDRESS IS COMMONLY KNOWN AS 105 SALTER AVE., JONESBORO, LA 71251

Seized as the property of the above named defendant and will be sold to satisfy said Writ and all
cost, sale to be made for cash with WITH the benefit of appraisal.

8/17/22
9/21/22

ANDY BROWN, SHERIFF
EX-OFFICIO AUCTIONEER
TINA M. SPILLERS, DEPUTY

SHERIFF’S SALE

PNC BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION
# 36824

PARISH OF JACKSON
STATE OF LOUISIANA

CHARLES E WOODS, A/KIA CHARLES
EDWIN WOODS. M CHARLES STEVEN BUCHAN.JR.
WENDY NICOLE HARRINGTON, ROBIN BUCHAN BROWNING

By virtue of a Writ of Seizure and Sale issued out of the Honorable Second Judicial District Court,
Parish of Jackson, State of Louisiana, and to me directed, I have seized and taken into my
possession and will offer for sale for cash at the principal front door of the Courthouse, Jonesboro, Louisiana, on Wednesday, the 19th day of October, 2022. Between the hours governing judicial sales, the following property to wit:

COMMENCE AT THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF THE NW 1/4 OF NE 1/4, SECTION 31, TOWNSHIP 15 NORTH, RANGE 2 WEST, JACKSON PARISH, LOUISIANA, AND RUN NORTH 89 DEG. 51’33” WEST. ALONG THE FORTY LINE, A DISTANCE OF 660.00 FEET THENCE RUN NORTH 01 DEG. 20’14” WEST 396.57 FEET TO THE SOUTHWEST CORNER AND POINT OF BEGINNING OF THE 0,.498 ACRE TRACT OF LAND HEREINAFTER DESCRIBED; THENCE CONTINUE NORTH 01 DEG. 20’14” WEST 65.43 FEET; THENCE NORTH 61 DEG. 33’06” EAST 74.00 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 69 DEG. 45’32” EAST 195.94 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 70 DEG. 14’24” WEST 50.00 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 00 DEG. 58’04” EAST 68.05 FEET; THENCE RUN NORTH 75 DEG. 30’34” WEST A DISTANCE OF 208.09 FEET TO THE SOUTHWEST CORNER AND POINT OF BEGINNING, CONTAlNING 0.498 ACRES AS PER REVISED PLAT OF SURVEY DATED FEBRUARY 13, 1997, BY ALBERT D. HULETT, JR., PROFESSIONAL LAND SURVEYOR, LOUISIANA REGISTRY NO. 170;

ALSO: A CERTAIN TRACT OR PARCEL OF LAND SITUATED IN THE NW 1/4 OF THE NE 1/4 OF SECTION 31, TOWNSHIP 15 NORTH, RANGE 2 WEST, JACKSON PARISH, LOUISIANA, AND BEING MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS, TO-WIT: COMMENCING AT THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF THE NW 1/4 OF NE 1/4, SECTION 31, TOWNSHIP 15 NORTH, RANGE 2 WEST, JACKSON PARISH, LOUISIANA, AND PROCEED NORTH 89 DEG. 51’53” WEST, ALONG THE SOUTH LINE OF SAID NW 1/4 OF NE 1/4, SECTION 31, A DISTANCE 660.00 FEET, THENCE PROCEED NORTH 01 DEG. 20’14” WEST A DISTANCE OF 396.57 FEET TO A FOUND ONE (I) INCH IRON PIN, THENCE PROCEED SOUTH 75 DEG. 30’34” EAST A DISTANCE OF 208.09 FEET TO A FOUND ONE (I) INCH IRON PIN AND THE POINT OF BEGINNING OF HEREIN DESCRIBED 0.109 ACRE TRACT OF LAND; THENCE PROCEED NORTH 00 DEG. 58’04” WEST A DISTANCE OF 68.05 FEET TO A FOUND ONE (I) INCH IRON PIN; THENCE PROCEED NORTH 70 DEG. 14’24” EAST A DISTANCE OF 50.00 FEET TO A FOUND ONE (I) INCH IRON PIN; THENCE PROCEED SOUTH 69 DEG. 45’32” EAST A DISTANCE OF 13.01 FEET TO THE CENTERLINE OF WESTON CHURCH ROAD; THENCE PROCEED SOUTH 02 DEG. 50’29” WEST, ALONG THE CENTERLINE OF WESTON CHURCH ROAD, A DISTANCE OF 94.37 FEET; THENCE PROCEED NORTH 75 DEG. 30’34” WEST A DISTANCE OF
55.19 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING, CONTAINING 0.109 ACRES, MORE OR LESS, AND BEING SUBJECT TO ALL RIGHTS OF WAY, EASEMENTS, SERVITUDES AND RESTRICTIONS OF RECORD OR USE, TOGETHER WITH ALL IMPROVEMENTS AND APPURTENANCES THEREUNTO BELONGING, ALL LOCATED AND SITUATED IN JACKSON PARISH, LOUISIANA; SUBJECT TO RESTRICTIONS, SERVITUDES, RIGHTS-OF-WAY AND OUTSTANDING MINERAL RIGHTS OF RECORD AFFECTING THE PROPERTY

Seized as the property of the above named defendant and will be sold to satisfy said Writ and all
cost, sale to be made for cash with WITH the benefit of appraisal.

9/7/22
10/12/22

ANDY BROWN, SHERIFF EX-
OFFICIO, AUCTIONEER

PUBLIC NOTICE for PUBLIC HEARING
Jackson Parish Police Jury

The Jackson Parish Police Jury will hold a public hearing at 5:30 p.m. on September 20, 2022 at
the Police Jury Office. The purpose of the meeting is to obtain views on the housing and
community development needs of Jackson Parish Police Jury and to discuss the submission of an
application for funding under the State of Louisiana FY 2023 Community Development Block
Grant (LCDBG) Program. The following items will be discussed at the hearing:
A. The amount of funds available for proposed community development and housing activities;
B. The range of activities available that may be undertaken, including the estimated amount of funds proposed to be used for activities that will benefit persons of low and moderate incomes;
C. The plans of the Parish for minimizing displaced persons as a result of activities assisted with such funds and the benefits to be provided by the Parish to persons actually displaced as a result of such activities; and,
D. The Parish’s past performance on LCDBG projects funded by the State of Louisiana.
All residents, particularly low and moderate income persons and residents of slum and blighted
areas of Jackson area are encouraged to attend this meeting.
Accommodations will be made for persons with disabilities and non-English speaking individuals provided that three-day notice is received by the Jackson Parish Police Jury.
Those citizens unable to attend this hearing may submit their views and proposals until September 20, 2022 in writing to:

Lynn Treadway, President
Jackson Parish Police Jury
503 E. Court Street, Room 100
Jonesboro, LA 71251

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

Sealed bids will be received by the Jackson Parish Library Board of Control at 614 South Polk Avenue, until 2:00 O’Clock P.M. Daylight Savings Time on Tuesday, September 20, 2022.

ANY PERSON REQUIRING SPECIAL ACCOMMODATIONS SHALL NOTIFY THE JACKSON PARISH LIBRARY FOR THE TYPES OF ACCOMMODATION REQUIRED NOT LESS THAN (7) DAYS BEFORE THE BID OPENING.

FOR: THE JACKSON PARISH LIBRARY INTERACTIVE PLAYGROUND
ARCHITECT’S PROJECT NUMBER: 0221A

Complete Bidding Documents for this project are available from the office of the Architect, Coco & Company Wayne Lawrence Coco, AIA, Architect LLC. They may be obtained for a non refundable deposit of $100.00

Questions about this procedure shall be directed to the Architect at:
Wayne Lawrence Coco, AIA, Architect LLC,
P.O. Box 111 (or 510 Main Street)
Simmesport , Louisiana 71369
Telephone: 318-359-3732 Fax: 318-941-2821
E-mail: waynecococo@centurytel.net

All bids must be accompanied by bid security equal to five percent (5%) of the sum of the base bid and all alternates (if any), and must be in the form of a certified check or cashiers check written by a surety company licensed to do business in Louisiana, signed by the surety’s agency or attorney-infact, and countersigned by a person who is under Contract with the surety as a licensed agency in this State and who is residing in this State. Surety must be listed on the current U.S. Department of the Treasury Financial Management Service list of approved bonding companies as approved for an amount equal to or greater than the amount for which it obligates itself in the Bond, or must be a Louisiana domiciled insurance company with at least an A – rating in the latest printing of the A.M. Best’s Key Rating Guide. If surety qualifies by virtue of its Best’s listing, the amount of the Bond may not exceed ten percent of policyholders’ surplus as shown in the latest A.M. Best’s Key Rating Guide. The Bid Bond shall be in favor of the Jackson Parish Library Board of Control and shall be accompanied by appropriate power of attorney. No Bid Bond indicating an obligation of less than five percent (5%) by any method is acceptable.

The successful Bidder shall be required to furnish a Performance and Payment Bond written by a company licensed to do business in Louisiana, in the amount equal to 100% of the Contract amount. Surety must be listed currently on the U.S. Department of Treasury Financial Management
Service List (Treasury List) as approved for an amount equal to or greater than the contract amount, or must be an insurance company domiciled in Louisiana or owned by Louisiana residents. If surety is qualified other than by listing on the Treasury List, the contract amount may not exceed fifteen percent of policyholders’ surplus as shown by surety’s most recent financial statements filed with the Louisiana Department of Insurance and may not exceed the amount of $500,000. However, a Louisiana domiciled insurance company with at least an A – rating in the latest printing of the A.M. Best’s Key Rating Guide shall not be subject to the $500,000 limitation, provided that the contract amount does not exceed ten percent of policyholders’ surplus as shown in the latest A.M. Best’s Key Rating Guide nor fifteen percent of policyholders’ surplus as shown by surety’s most recent financial statements filed with the Louisiana Department of Insurance. The Bond shall be signed by the surety’s agent or attorney-in-fact and countersigned by a person who is under contract with surety as a licensed agent in this State, and who is residing in this State.

Bids shall be accepted from Contractors who are licensed under L.A. R.S. 37:2150-2163 for the classification of Site, Concrete, or Building Construction. No bid may be withdrawn for a period of thirty (30) days after receipt of bids, except under the provision of L.A. R.S. 38:2214.
The Owner reserves the right to reject all bids for just cause. In accordance with L.A. R.S. 38:2212 (A) (1) (b), the provisions and requirements of this Section, those stated in the advertisement for bids, and those required on the bid form shall not be considered as informalities and shall not be waived by any public entity.

Jackson Parish Library Interactive Playground
Coco & Company
Project # 0221A

Terri Denean Martin
May 27,1966 – August 23,2022

Terri Denean (Wright) Martin, age 56 of North Hodge, went to be with her loved ones on Tuesday, August 23, 2022. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother. She was a dear friend to many and a very special soul.

Terri is survived by her husband, Benny Martin Jr.; her children Jerrod Lee Williams, Kimberly Kay Heart, and Dustin Harris Williams. She is also survived by her beloved grandchildren, Shay Williams, Sabrina Williams & Dusty Williams. She is preceded in death by her parents: Jerry Wright and Dorthy Upshaw and step-father Floyd Mazie.

A memorial service will be held for Terri on Saturday, September 3, 2022 at First Assembly of God in North Hodge, with Brother Geary Phillips officiating.

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Jonesboro-Hodge showed improvement but mistakes at critical times resulted in the Tigers coming up short by a 7-0 margin against Class 4A Franklin Parish in the Bayou Jamb played on Saturday at Joe Aillet Stadium on the campus of Louisiana Tech.

It was a tale of two halves.

In the first half it was all JHHS. The Tigers dominated the first 12 minutes of action by running 16 plays to just 4 for Franklin and controlling the ball for all but 1:01 of play. Unfortunately the Tigers were unable to score any points following a pair of interceptions that near the goal line that allowed Franklin Parish to escape unscathed.

The second half was a different story.

he Tiger defense forced a three and out resulting in a punt that gave JHHS the ball at their own 17 yard line. Disaster struck again on the Tigers first offensive play of the second half when Franklin forced a fumble giving them the ball at the JHHS 27 yard line. The JH defense stood tall, but on the 14th play of the short drive, hampered by a pair of penalties on third and short situations, Franklin managed to score on a fourth and goal situation for the only score of the game.

“You can’t make the kind of mistakes we made and expect to win,” said disheartened head coach Terrance Blankenship. “We are going to have to clean things up quickly if we are going to accomplish what we hope to do.”

There were several positives that the Tigers can take away from the contest. One was the effectiveness of the rushing attack that chewed up 95 yards on the ground led by Ed’Tavious Drayton who led JHHS with 56 yards rushing on 12 attempts. Another was the play of the offensive and defensive front line that for most of the game dominated Franklin Parish.

Following the contest, Dominick Strickland was named the Tigers Most Valuable Player. As result Strickland, who played both offensive tackle and defensive end was awarded a $250.00 check that was sponsored by Academy Sports.

JHHS opens the regular season next Friday with a road trip to Lake Providence where they will take on defending District 2-2A champion General Trass. Game time is set for 7:00pm.

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NOTE: Today most people only know that Caney Creek Reservoir and Caney Lake State Park is considered one of the jewels of Sportsman’s Paradise, as the state is called. Few remember the countless trials, tribulations, pitfalls and roadblocks that had to be overcome or the role that Woody McDonald played in changing the woods into water. This week – Treen and a hill of beans!

In 1980 Edwin Edwards was forced to relinquish his role as Governor after two terms, paving the way for Dave Treen to win the election. The shift in power was exuberating to all who was involved with the construction of Caney Lake, especially Jackson Parish Watershed Commissioner Woody McDonald, who immediately began lobbying the new state leader as soon as he took office.

“Treen is in agreement with us that the project needs to be finished,” McDonald was quoted as saying in a May 30th article published by the Shreveport Times. “He is going to start to look for funding and hopefully we will be able to let the dam contract later this summer.

The statement was a welcome relief after nearly a decade of setbacks in the 70’s and led to excitement of what the 80’s would bring. What needed to be raised was roughly $3,000,000.00 dollars but an old ally, who had become an detriment was once again in position to be a big help. After two terms as Speaker of the House where he became a bitter political adversary to Edwards, Jonesboro native E.L. “Bubba” Henry was now high up in the Treen administration and worked closely with funding matters.

McDonald continued to burn up the road to Baton Rouge and after many more meetings the hope became stronger that the needed money would soon be available. Also, on several additional fronts, after all the roadblocks and stonewalling of the past four years, the project suddenly began to pick up momentum.

The completion of the spillway, which was about three quarters of the way from being completed and two additional clearing projects were now expected to be completed by the fall. Contracts called for the main channels to be completely cleared for waterskiing and boating with timber being left in the inlets and upper end except in boat rows to enhance the fishing.

Also, despite all the turmoil of the previous years, McDonald and the JPWC had continued to diligently raise money which resulted in the commission having roughly $800,000.00 to put towards the building of the embankment and a bridge on Hwy 4 with an additional $250,000.00 being available by the time the construction started.

All was not well on the home front though. The attacks and disgruntlement that for years had been centered in Baton Rouge soon started locally and of all people, McDonald was in the cross hairs. This came from local residents who were upset that during all the delays in construction that McDonald and partner Glen Pullen had planted a soybean patch in the lake bed.

According to June 28, 1981 article in the Shreveport Times, local residents were claiming that now the nearly $5,000,000.00 dollars that taxpayers had paid wasn’t amounting to anything other than a “hill of beans”.

The nearly ten years of delays were beginning to wear thin the patience of landowners to the point that some threatened to file suit to regain rights to the property. Many had sold servitude in the early 1970’s to the state on the condition that the lake be flooded within 10 years, a time frame that had long gone past.

In reality, McDonald had received permission from the landowners, the state Office of Public Works and informally from the previous group of commissioners to plant the crop. As one landowner stated, he had no problem with it as he figured the land might as well be used for something during all the delays. McDonald said at the time the idea was to keep the land cleared and that by farming it accomplished that goal.

By the end of the summer of 1981 and the spillway now completed the dispute would be “water under the bridge” as the focus turned once again to getting the money needed to complete the earthen dam that had to be constructed so that the lake would begin filling up. But another “curveball” was coming. Next week: Trouble with Tenneco.

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Sealed bids will be received by the Jackson Parish Library Board of Control at 614 South Polk Avenue, until 2:00 O’Clock P.M. Daylight Savings Time on Tuesday, September 20, 2022 for the construction of the JACKSON PARISH LIBRARY INTERACTIVE PLAYGROUND.

Complete bidding documents for this project are available from the office of the Architect, Coco & Company Wayne Lawrence Coco, AIA, Architect LLC. They may be obtained for a non refundable deposit of $100.00.

Questions about this procedure shall be directed to the Architect at:
Wayne Lawrence Coco, AIA, Architect LLC,
P.O. Box 111 (or 510 Main Street)
Simmesport , Louisiana 71369
Telephone: 318-359-3732 Fax: 318-941-2821
E-mail: waynecococo@centurytel.net

All bids must be accompanied by bid security equal to five percent (5%) of the sum of the base bid and all alternates (if any), and must be in the form of a certified check or cashiers check written by a surety company licensed to do business in Louisiana, signed by the surety’s agency or attorney-infact, and countersigned by a person who is under Contract with the surety as a licensed agency in this State and who is residing in this State. Surety must be listed on the current U.S. Department of the Treasury Financial Management Service list of approved bonding companies as approved for an amount equal to or greater than the amount for which it obligates itself in the Bond, or must be a Louisiana domiciled insurance company with at least an A – rating in the latest printing of the A.M. Best’s Key Rating Guide. If surety qualifies by virtue of its Best’s listing, the amount of the Bond may not exceed ten percent of policyholders’ surplus as shown in the latest A.M. Best’s Key Rating Guide. The Bid Bond shall be in favor of the Jackson Parish Library Board of Control and shall be accompanied by appropriate power of attorney. No Bid Bond indicating an obligation of less than five percent (5%) by any method is acceptable.

The successful Bidder shall be required to furnish a Performance and Payment Bond written by a company licensed to do business in Louisiana, in the amount equal to 100% of the Contract amount. Surety must be listed currently on the U.S. Department of Treasury Financial Management
Service List (Treasury List) as approved for an amount equal to or greater than the contract amount, or must be an insurance company domiciled in Louisiana or owned by Louisiana residents. If surety is qualified other than by listing on the Treasury List, the contract amount may not exceed fifteen percent of policyholders’ surplus as shown by surety’s most recent financial statements filed with the Louisiana Department of Insurance and may not exceed the amount of $500,000. However, a Louisiana domiciled insurance company with at least an A – rating in the latest printing of the A.M. Best’s Key Rating Guide shall not be subject to the $500,000 limitation, provided that the contract amount does not exceed ten percent of policyholders’ surplus as shown in the latest A.M. Best’s Key Rating Guide nor fifteen percent of policyholders’ surplus as shown by surety’s most recent financial statements filed with the Louisiana Department of Insurance. The Bond shall be signed by the surety’s agent or attorney-in-fact and countersigned by a person who is under contract with surety as a licensed agent in this State, and who is residing in this State.
Bids shall be accepted from Contractors who are licensed under L.A. R.S. 37:2150-2163 for the classification of Site, Concrete, or Building Construction. No bid may be withdrawn for a period of thirty (30) days after receipt of bids, except under the provision of L.A. R.S. 38:2214.

The Owner reserves the right to reject all bids for just cause. In accordance with L.A. R.S. 38:2212 (A) (1) (b), the provisions and requirements of this Section, those stated in the advertisement for bids, and those required on the bid form shall not be considered as informalities and shall not be
waived by any public entity.

ANY PERSON REQUIRING SPECIAL ACCOMMODATIONS SHALL NOTIFY THE JACKSON PARISH LIBRARY FOR THE TYPES OF ACCOMMODATION REQUIRED NOT LESS THAN (7) DAYS BEFORE THE BID OPENING.

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