Jonesboro-Hodge Tigers hope to enjoy the sweet taste of victory for the second time in just six days when they host Class 5A Pineville this Thursday evening at Caldwell-Peacock Stadium. Game time is set for 7:00pm.
The contest was tabbed for a Thursday date instead of the normal Friday night venue per an order handed down by the Director of the Louisiana High School Officials Association Monroe District.
“Due to a shortage of referees in the Monroe District, almost every school in the area was required to play a game on Thursday this year ” said JHHS head coach Terrance Blankenship. “We were told by the Director at the beginning of the year that we were going to have to play either week two or week five on Thursday, so instead of playing our first home game of the year on Thursday, we chose the Pineville game.”
As it turns out it looks like the short turnaround couldn’t have come at a better time for the Tigers. Bouyed by their 30-26 season first victory over Lincoln Prep last week, that broke the three game season opening losing streak, the team enters the contest motivated and confident.q
“Getting ready to play on a short week is difficult as it takes you out of your normal routine,” reflected Blankenship. “Adjustments have to be made with everything from the practice schedule to getting mentally and physically prepared to play a day early. It makes it a little easier coming off a win though as the memory is one day fresher in our minds. ”
For visiting Pineville the challenge of the Thursday evening contest is just as difficult if not more. First of all the Rebels are still searching for their first win of the season after losing to a pair of Class 2A teams in Winnfield 33-6, and Menard 32-13 to open the season and then falling to Class 4A Tioga 41-7 and Class 5A Barbe 42-0 last week. Then there is always the bane of being the visiting team on a short week – having to make unusual travel arrangements.
While Coach Blankenship knows that Pineville has gotten the short end of the proverbial stick so far and that it is harder to hit the road for these kind of contests he cautions that it will take the Tigers best effort of the year to win this one.
“I guarantee you that the Pineville coaching staff and players have circled this game as a must win,” said Blankenship. “They enter district play next week and if they don’t get this one they might not win one all season. We are going to have to play better than we have so far.”
Injury Report: The Tigers will be without a key offensive performer this Thursday in Jason Blackburn. According to Coach Blankenship, the explosive freshman who played a key role in the Tigers victory this past Friday, severely turned his ankle in practice and will be out for at least a couple of weeks.
“It hurts that Jason went down as he was just now really starting to come into his own,” said Blankenship. “The rest of our backs are going to have to be ready for more extended work.”
Keys to victory!
Cut down on turnovers – The Tigers have turned the ball over 12 times in just the last two games compared to 15 all season last year. Even if JHHS had a juggernaut offense, which they don’t, it is impossible to overcome so many mistakes. Can’t hardly expect the Tigers to go turnover free but if they could limit the miscues to a minimum it would give them a better chance.
Establish a passing attack – The Tigers are averaging less than 100 yards per game through the air and have thrown 8 interceptions compared to four touchdowns, with three of those coming in the second half against Bunkie. For the first time all season a new QB won’t be starting. It is imperative that the Tigers improve in this area.
Defend the pass: This has also been a glaring weakness of the Tigers this season. Granted the secondary is inexperienced but they have to defend better if JHHS has a chance to win this one. All to often opponent receivers roam free in the secondary and when the Tigers have had a chance to make a play, they haven’t been able to capitalize. The secondary can’t get beat like they have so far.
The Jackson Parish NAACP Invites You to Meet Your Candiates for Jackson Parish Mayor Town of Jonesboro Chief of Police Town of Jonesboro Member of School Board Districts 5 & 7 Alderman at Large Town of Jonesboro Alderman Districts C & D Town of Jonesboro
Saturday, October 1, 2022 Come at 12:30 p.m. to meet the candidates Forum 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Boyer-Bell Memorial Building 763 Beech Spring Hwy – Jonesboro, LA 71251
“YOUR VOICE MATTERS”
This event is being held to encourage citizens to become more involved in local government, by learning about the issues and positions of each candidate. The moderator will pose questions to the candidates and each one will have a limited time to respond. The public will be allowed to submit written questions at this forum. A panel will review the questions before they are posed to the candidates. At the end of the forum, each candidate will be given three minutes to present statements about their candidacy, explain why they are running for office and their position on various issuses.
Please contact Rose Jackson at 318-347-7580 or Windy Calahan at 318-680-5511 for more information.
Join the merchants of Jackson Parish for the Annual “Step in to Fall” that will take place from 5:00-8:00pm on Monday, October 3rd. Stop by your favorite shops and discover new places to frequent. You will never know the treasures you can find and the friends you can see unless you take advantage of the opportunity to see what local businesses have to offer.
The Jackson Parish Sports Hall of Fame will hold induction ceremonies for the Class of 2022 at 6:00pm this Saturday, October 1st in the Family Life Center of the First Baptist Church in Jonesboro.
Enterring the hallowed hall will be Ted Reeves and Greg Harrell, who prepped at Jonesboro-Hodge High School, Mark Hale and Ashley Butler McCoy from Weston High and Derickal Saulsberry from the now defunct, Chatham High School.
Also being recognized are Carrell Dowies and Jimmie Davis who will be honored with the Outstanding Acheivement Award. Although serving in different generations, the pair was identical in their ability to reach athletes in their care. Both were not only adept in teaching their players the correct way to play sports but how to conduct themselves while doing so.
As a testament to each, scores of players and students at JHHS during their tenures profusely proclaim how instrumental Dowies and Davis was in assisting with the develop their character. Many also state that they wouldn’t have become the adults they are were it not for the values instilled in them by their beloved coach.
Both had tenures as head coaches in football, but it is primarily during their time as assistant coaches that they are remembered best for. As happens often, it is the assistant who spends most of the time in one-on-one conversations with a player. The good assitant becomees an ally, a friend and a mentor. The great ones, like Davis and Dowies also become a guiding force through not only what they say but the examples they set with how they live.
Carrell G Dowies, Jr., was raised in Homer, LA. He graduated from Homer High School, and upon graduation from high school traveled to Louisiana Tech on a full football scholarship. In 1949 he received his bachelor’s degree in education.
He began his coaching career at Jonesboro/Hodge in 1950, before being called into the armed services for the years of 1952-53. After serving his country, Dowies came back to JHHS where he stayed until 1956. Upon his return Dowies initiated an Eighth Grade Basketball program and was part of the coaching staff for both basketball and track State Championship teams, He was a firm believer in teaching the game of basketball to younger boys to prepare them for their high school days and teaching the game of life to his varsity player to prepare them for adulthood. While in Jonesboro, he married Harriett Michaud, formerly from Hodge.
Jimmie Marvin Davis Sr. graduated from Monticello High School in Mississippi before playing for four years at Alcorn State University. In 1974 the 6’5″ 250 lb. lineman was drafted by the Detroit Lions. An imposing figure on the gridiron in 1979 the students, faculty and staff at Jonesboro-Hodge grew to know him as a “gentle giant” who had a heart of gold. For 16 years, the last two as head coach of the JHHS football team, Davis provided his unique form of leadership, friendship and mentorship to countless numbers who played under him.
It was during his tenure that the Tigers completed the iconic “three peat”, winning three straight state championships in football. Countless additional deep runs in the playoffs were made in other sports as well, all of which Davis contributed to. Current JHHS head coach Terrance Blankenship perhaps said it best when he recently described what Coach Davis meant to him and many others who played under him.
“He was a great coach but an even better man,” recalled Blankenship. “No player ever had a better friend and mentor. I can’t tell you how many young boys he helped be the person they are today, including me.”
While his devotion to his players and Jonesboro-Hodge High School was unrivaled it fails in comparision to his dedication to his family and the Lord. Davis not only “talked the talk” but “walked the walk” as well.
Dowies and Davis were two great gentlemen from two totally different eras. Regardless, the lessons of life that each taught, the love and friendship they extended and the character they portrayed, will forever be remembered and heralded for generations to come by the ones they touched.
While both are no longer with us, because of the impact both of the men made on their players, the lessons they taught are certain to be passed on from generation to generation of descendants. Greatness never dies…….
If you have driven along Industrial Drive in Jonesboro lately you have noticed that the landscape has changed dramatically. The reason is the site prep being done by MGM Develpment Group, LLC in conjunction of the upcoming construction of the planned Senior Village.
MGM Group partner, Jeff Glover recently provided a an update on what has taken place so far and a schedule of what to expect over the upcoming months.
“We have already had the existing metal buildings on the site torn down and the land is being cleared,” said Glover. “Separately, we granted the Town of Jonesboro a sewer easement through the property to help address some of the maintenance issues with their treatment pond.”
“We anticipate having all of our financing lined up and closed hopefully by the end of October. Construction will then begin in November,” continued Glover. “The construction loan is being provided by CenturyNext bank from Ruston / West Monroe and the general contractor is Magnolia Construction Group out of West Monroe. Magnolia has already opened an account at Pardue’s for supplemental building materials.”
To view the complete architect’s package of drawings click here.
The season for the area junior high basketball and football programs are nearing the end with one game remaining to be played, highlighted by Jonesboro-Hodge Middle School celebrating Homecoming on October 4th The final games dates are as follows:
September 29th: Quitman Jr High vs Cedar Creek (boys/girls basketball) Saline Jr. High vs Doyline (boys/girls basketball) September 30th: Weston Jr. High at Doyline (boys/girls basketball October 4th: Jonesboro-Hodge Middle School vs Red River Junior High (football) HOMECOMING
Game recaps:
September 22nd: Weston 19 Dodson 11 (girls) WJH scoring: Griffin 10, Slaughter 2, Waters 2, Morgan 2, Johns 2, Brown 1 Saline 40 Gibsland-Coleman 33 (girls) SJH scoring: Sims 13, Jiles 13, Breeland 5, Fine 4, Hough 2 Weston 29 Dodson 7 (boys) WJH scoring: Tidwell 10, Henderson 6, Harris 2, Phares 2, Lewis 2, Allen 2, Kerinard 2, Zuniga 2, North 1 Gibsland-Coleman 41 Saline 33 (boys) SJH scoring: Roberts 13, Fontenot 13, Bougues 2, Mauthe 2, Calloway 1
Fall Trade Days, hosted by Dugdemona Farm and Feed, will take place from 8:00am – 4:00pm on Saturday, October 1st. The event will take place at 132 Lowery Road in Quitman.
Vendor Booths featuring local arts and crafts, antiques, jewelry and handmade goodies will be on site along with food trucks, a pumkin patch and a petting zoo for the children. As part of the festivities a pet parade and pet costume contest will take place beginning at 10:00am.
Last year, Taylor and Landin Chatham, the brother/sister fishing team from Weston High got their picture taken regularly after continous top 10 finishes in the Northeast Louisiana High School Anglers Tournament circuit. They made an impressive duo that did so well they qualified for the year ending National High School Fishing Tournament.
Faced with having to get a new partner to compete with this year due to Taylor graduating last May, Landin turned to Jesse Parker from West Ouachita High School. While Parker may not be considered quite as “photogenic” as Landin’s pretty sister was, the new combination is earning their share of camera time after the first two events of the 2022-23 NELHSA Tournament Trail. The neighboring parish pair has also firmly entrenched their names atop the season long points standings by winning the second leg of the “Trail” held at Lake D’Arbonne in Farmerville this past Saturday.
Combined with their season opening victory on the Ouachita River in August, Charham and Parker has now swept the fall portion of the NELHSA cuircuit. The next scheduled event will take place on Lake Bruin on January 14th.
The talented twosome landed the maximum five fish allowed for a total weight of 13.84 lbs, including a 4.12 pounder that was the third largest bass caught. While this was .54 pounds more than second place Josh Arrant and Cade Brown the final margin was only .04 pounds as a penatly for one of the fish not being able to be returned to the lake was applied.
Hayden Davis and Maddox Duck of Quitman High also recorded a top ten finish by coming in 6th place out of the 50 teams who competed with a five fish stringer of 10.36 pounds. Maddox Williams of Saline and his partner Eddie Hyatt, Jr. from Lakeside High in Sibley came in 11th. Another QHS team, Waylon Sullivan and Jake Vail, ended up in 27th place with the Weston High School team of Joseph Irvin and Braydon Brown checking in three spots down to earn a top 30 finish.
Final results of NELHSA Tournament on Lake D’Arbonne
Owner/operator, Jeff Hairston, is pleased to announce that Caney Storage LLC, located at 110 North Lake Drive just past the Hwy 4 bridge on Caney Lake, is now officially open for business.
The easy to access, canopy covered, facility houses a large floorplan of 21 storage spaces, each measured at 13′ wide, 40′ deep and 13’6″ high that is outfitted with a 100v duplex outlet in each space. Addtional spaces are in the plans to be added soon.
Considering the safety and security of your boat, RV, vehicle, travel trailer and other large movables the facility is surrounded by security fencing, contains bright lighting and a plethora of cameras.
To reserve a space go to www.caneystorage.com, call 318-348-8822 or send an email to caneystorage@gmail.com.
Due to the JHHS vs Pineville football game being played on Thursday, the JHHS Touchdown Club will meet at 7:30pm on Wednesday in the locker room of Caldwell Peacock Stadium on the campus of Jonesboro Hodge High School. All members and any who wish to join are invited to come enjoy a scrumptious meal, review game film and hear from head coach Terrance Blankenship about the final non-district contest of the season against Class 5A Pineville.
Word is you’re headed to church retreat to begin your high school senior year. I’ve been asked to write a letter of encouragement. You’ll get several from friends for you to read this week. Mine is a humble C+ at best, but I’m honored to be asked …
You were born the day after I coached my final Little League game. For 10-plus years I had that privilege; most fun I’ve ever had.
The day before you were born, we lost in the semifinals of the state championship, and if I’d have done just a couple things differently — like called time and talked to my pitcher Scarf one batter earlier — I feel certain we’d have been in the finals. And the team that won it all was better than we were but … they might not have been better than us two-out-of-three, not right then. Not on those days.
So the next day driving up I-49, thinking about nothing other than what I have just told you, coming home after a week in South Louisiana and wishing I could turn back the clock and wishing I’d gotten my lard butt off the bucket and gone to the mound in the top of the ninth — your dad calls.
Saw his name on the screen and knew what it was about.
You had arrived on the scene.
I felt better right then.
Even though our little team of 14-year-olds didn’t quite get it done, they did as good as they possibly could have. Still, I was sad over the ending.
And then your beginning made me happy
Harmony of the universe and all that. God is like that sometimes.
I would have loved to have seen you more as you grew up into the wonderful young man you’ve become.
But I’ve gotten to “watch” you a lot through pictures and mostly through stories from your mom and dad. Every time they mention you, their voices are filled with joy and laughter and gratitude. Every time. It’s been fun to listen. And see.
Seems all the stories have had happy endings. We’ve been blessed.
I have a picture posted on my wall of you at age 3-ish sucking down a milkshake at a Shreveport burger joint, your eyes bulging and your cheeks working overtime. I have another picture of you running the bases with a batting helmet on, all business. I remember Brad pushing you into the pool and I remember us playing baseball outside your house.
Since then, you have learned the joy of live theatre. Learned how to do long division. Figured out how to try and not be scared on a first date. Learned a lot—but you’re just beginning. Keep your mind and heart open for all God is teaching you.
I am proud of you and love you because your mom and dad are proud of you and love you. There is never anything you could do, good or bad, that would make us love you more or less. We accept you right now as you are and are grateful for you being you.
Maybe you get the point of all this, which is that I have always been a Brendan cheerleader and that will always be the case. It has made me proud when your parents have called me with a “Little Teddy” update. You were almost named that, but it would have been a disservice to you. You are a Brendan, and a really, really good one.
A wise man once told me: Be kind. Love God and your neighbor. Don’t be too hard on yourself. That’s it. Enjoy this life you’ve been given.
Lily Garrett has climbed to the top of the hill in the cross country rankings for the state of Louisiana. Next year she will be looking at mountains. That is because the daughter of Jonesboro native Bob Garrett and his wife Karen has made the commitment to run cross country with the University of Tennessee, situated in Knoxville, the gateway to the Smoky Mountains.
“Lily was very impressed with everything about Tennessee,” said Bob, who was a standout athlete himself at Jonesboro-Hodge and Louisiana Tech University “It was an advantage that she got to meet several other girls who were being recruited too and they quickly bonded. They all ended up commiting and are keeping in touch with each other almost every day. Very happy for her that she has found a place she seems to be real comfortable with.”
After coming back from her trip, Garrett and her Ruston cross country team traveled to Denton, TX to take part in the 2022 Garmin Milesplit Invitational, which pitted many of the top cross country teams in Texas, Arkansas and Louisiana against each other.
We wanted to end September at a race that would really test us and show us where we were,” Ruston head coach Dustin Cochran said. “This race had everything you want. We got to see some of the best runners from Texas and Arkansas, as well as some great North Louisiana talent from Benton, Parkway, and Byrd.
Garrett finished 9th individually in the Girls Elite Race running the 3 mile course in 18:30. As a team Ruston finished in 8th place out of the 50 squads competing.
“Lily has had a big few weeks,” Cochran said. “It’s nice to see her back on the course leading the girls.
BATON ROUGE, La. (BRPROUD)– Public school systems across Louisiana may be in line for a change.
The possible adjustment is the result of the state’s literacy crisis, which education leaders say they’re poised to solve with a direct approach.
In referring to his initiative on literacy, State Superintendent of Education Cade Brumley said, “I’m not going to back down.”
Brumley explained that he’s tackling literacy gaps among elementary students with a new proposal.
He described his proposal by saying, “If a student in grades kindergarten, first, second, third, or fourth isn’t reading on grade level by the end of the school year, they would participate in 30 additional hours of support over the summer.”
But this mandatory summer school has sparked criticism on social media.
According to Brumley, it seems a viable option when taken into consideration alongside the significant number of students who’ve fallen behind due to hurricanes and pandemic-related problems.
“It was a year of starts and stops and interruptions…virtual face to face, virtual starts and stops,” he said. “We have to be laser focused on the current third and fourth graders across the state because of the unprecedented disruptions they have faced the last two years.”
Brumley said less than half of Louisiana’s fourth graders are reading on grade level and then added, “A child that’s not reading on grade level by the end of third grade and certainly by the end of fourth grade, is at a much greater risk to be a dropout.”
During the 30 hours of the proposed summer school, children would meet in small groups with a curriculum that’s been outlined by the state.
Brumley said, “We’re training all K-3 teachers across the state right now… high quality back to the basics approaches around phonics… small groups. And then making sure that at the beginning, we know where they are and at the end, we know where we are. So that as they step into that next school year, the school can have as much real time data as possible.”
Brumley’s proposal will be presented at the next BESE meeting, October 11th.
If approved, it will go into effect during the summer of 2023.
Weston High School FFA members Alyssa Holland, Avery Evans, Skyler Carter and Landon Pierce took second place in Forestry at the 2022-23 Area One Regional Competition held on the campus of Louisiana Tech University. Evans also had top score in tree disorder identification.
The four sophomores, under the tutelage of FFA advisor Derek Shields and student teacher Kerrington Bass competed in the following six areas: Tree identification, equipment identification, sawlog estimation, tree disorder identification, map reading, and compass and pacing.
“Practices have not been exactly pleasant the last few days after having false fall last week and extreme summer this week but they have trudged on and put in some long hours after school to get better,” said Shields following the contest. “Today they were able to reap some rewards from their hard work. Now just got to keep the momentum rolling as we head to state in a couple of weeks.”
Melissa Perry, Founder of the Hodge Strong Foundation, partnered with the Northeast Louisiana Food Bank two years ago to help meet some of the most basic needs for some of Jackson Parish School Board’s most at-risk students. The funds the Hodge Strong Foundation raises goes towards providing weekend “backpack meals.” For many participating students, they look forward to Friday afternoons when they receive a gallon-sized ziplock bag of food in their backpacks to help supplement any meals their families may not have the means to provide over the weekend.
The school system provides students with breakfast and lunch Monday through Friday, but there are some students who need additional meal support on the weekends. For many reasons, the requests for weekend backpack meals at all schools in the district have surpassed the currently available number of backpack meals that are funded. The funding is currently able to provide 112 meals for Jackson Parish students, but there are approximately 150 students that qualify and are in need. It costs $200-$240 per year, per student, to fund the food support for our students. This program needs community funding in order to provide more weekend food support for our students. We are asking those in our community that are able to please donate to this worthy cause; this is for our children.
If you are willing and able to donate funds to the Hodge Strong Foundation, monetary donations can be submitted to Jonesboro State Bank, in Jonesboro, Louisiana. If you have any questions, please contact Melissa Perry at Melissa.perry@westrock.com. Thank you to those that have previously donated– you are the reason we can continue to provide this service to our students in our communities.
Nothing upsets Peyton Smith more than to see the football in the hands of opponents moving forward on the football field. Advancements on a different front were made this past week that the defensive lineman at Jonesboro-Hodge High School didn’t mind at all and hopes is just the beginning of much more to come.
Despite leading the state in tackles by a lineman as a junior last season and possessing a powerful 6’5″ 265 lb. frame, Smith was surprisingly receiving no attention by college recruiters. Not a call, not a letter, nothing! That all changed this past week.
This past Saturday, Smith took his first official recruiting trip when Northwestern State University (NSU) in Natchitoches invitied him for a visit. Within 48 hours, Smith enjoyed another “first” when Anna Maria College offered him the opportunity to continue his football career on the collegiate level.
Located in the heart of New England on a 190-acre campus, Anna Marie College is a four-year, private, co-ed, Catholic institution that competes athletically as a NCAA Division III member. The football program is the defending champion of the Eastern Collegiate Football Conference.
“Peyton got overlooked last year due to the large number of seniors we had that colleges were pursuing and I am glad that he is finally getting some attention,” said JHHS head coach Terrance Blankenship. “Hopefully this inspire him to work even harder so that this will be just the first of more offers to come.”
The Special Education class at JHHS took a field trip on Monday, September 26th, to the Jackson Parish Courthouse and the voting machine warehouse to learn about their rights and responsibilities as citizens and how to vote.
Enjoying the outing was Rose Broadway (para), Boniecia Murray (para), Kaylin Huckaby, Emma Lee, Keziah Thompson, Jessica Broshears, Grace Lee, Rena Daigre, Isaiah Williams, Timeion Wilson, Tamya Bratcher. The group was chaperoned Emily Carpenter (teacher), Karie Potts (adapted PE teacher) and bus driver, Allie Miles.
Special thanks go to Judge Rick Warren and Jackson Parish Clerk of Court, Laura Culpepper for taking time out of their busy schedule to help make the trip a great experience. Judge Warren provided a tour of the Courtroom, gave the students the opportunity to sit in a jury box and answered questions. Clerk Culpepper then took the group on a tour of the voting machine warehouse, allowed everyone to cast their ballot in a voting booth in a faux election scenario!
On September 15, 2022, the Jonesboro-Hodge High School’s FBLA Club sponsor, Mrs. Alberta Foster, and Jonesboro-Hodge Elementary’s principal, Ms. Danielle Copeland with the JHES Wraparound Services partnered together to host a family engagement event. The event drew 37 parents of JHES students.
Parents learned about the school’s PTO committee, Title I program, and how to effectively communicate with teachers during the evening event. The J-HHS FBLA members volunteered to entertain and occupy students that attended the event with their parents. The JHHS-FBLA spent the evening with the students which gave the parents time to fellowship with other parents and get involved with the school.
There were 18 children that were watched over during the event, regardless of age, and all had a blast with the JHHS-FBLA students. The following FBLA students assisted with watching over the children; they included Honesty Poland, Mallorie Ashcraft, Saige Green, Richard Ulloa, Houstan Cox, Lakeisha Brown, Gabriella Smith, Ethan Bradford, Zaylen Harrell, T’ara Tyler, and Trinite Davis.
Faculty and staff were busy helping with the event which was coordinated by Ms. Copeland and Mrs. Tristen Bergholtz, JHES counselor, and Mrs. Foster, JHHS-FBLA adviser. A huge thank you to Mrs. Foster and her FBLA students at JHHS in providing assistance with this event! This club is much appreciated in our community.
In 2000, writer/producer Allison Gibson had an idea for a television sitcom which was set in Houston, Texas. The lead character, Sally, was a wisecracking single mother of three children, each of whom had various emotional issues. Sally’s husband had left her for another woman who, because of their connection to the same man, considered Sally to be her best friend, but Sally considered the other woman to be her nemesis. This odd combination of characters and situations produced hilarious comedic mayhem.
The lead character was named Sally because Allison wrote the part with a specific actress in mind. This Sally had won a host of awards for her acting including two Academy Awards. Her career in television began in 1965 with a comedy called Gidget followed by The Flying Nun two years later. She had been in a slew of blockbuster films including Smokey and the Bandit, Steel Magnolias, and Forrest Gump. This Sally, Sally Field, was not interested in the sitcom and turned it down. Allison needed a new Sally.
As luck would have it, Nell was shopping around for a sitcom to star in. Nell began performing as a child in a singing group with her siblings. She had planned to become an elementary school teacher, but the trajectory of her life was forever changed when she sang the Star-Spangled Banner at a rodeo in Kentucky. Her short performance led to a singing and acting career which has lasted four decades so far. Nell played a variety of roles in movies and television from a gun-toting tough woman who helped defend her town from creatures living underground to Colonel Sanders in a Kentucky Fried Chicken commercial in which she wore the full goatee, white hair, and signature suit.
Nell was set to play “Sally,” the title role in the show. That was the plan until the very last moment. The production crew filmed the pilot twice in front of two different live studio audiences, one in the afternoon and another in the evening. In the afternoon show, Nell’s character’s name was Sally. In the evening show, Sally’s name was replaced with Nell’s real first name. Everyone involved in the creation of the show paid close attention to both audiences to gauge their reactions.
After filming both pilots, it was clear that the audience responded more when the name Sally was replaced with Nell’s real first name. Their reaction was such that the name of the show was changed again. The show was a huge success and ran from 2001 to 2007. Based on the audience’s reaction, the show, originally called Sally, then Deep in the Heart, was renamed again with the first name of its star, Reba McEntire.
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) 243-1009 or (318) 768-2554 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.
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 family member or friend 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.
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.
Baseball equipment – Three youth batting helmets with faceguards and a complete set of catchers equipment (Mask, chest protector, shin guards) for sale. To make an offer, call 318-475-1152
PUBLIC/LEGAL NOTICES
Utilities, Inc. of Louisiana Spillway Water Supply is currently in violation of the maximum contaminant level (MCL) for total trihalomethanes and haloacetic acids as set forth by the State [Part XII of the Louisiana State Sanitary Code (LAC 51:Xll)] and the Federal Primary Drinking Water Regulations (40 CFR Part 141).
The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals (LDHH) set drinking water standards and requires the disinfection of drinking water. Where disinfection is used in the treatment of drinking water, disinfectants combine with naturally occurring organic and inorganic matter present in water to form chemicals called disinfection byproducts (DBPs). EPA and LDHH set standards for controlling the levels of disinfectants and DBPs in drinking water, including trihalomethanes (THMs) and haloacetic acid (HAAs). Some people who drink water containing THMs in excess of the MCL over many years may experience problems with their liver, kidneys, or central nervous system, and may have an increased risk of getting cancer. Some people who drink water containing HAA5s in excess of the MCL over many years may have an increased risk of getting cancer.
In December 1998, EPA set enforceable drinking water standards for TTHMs at 80 parts per billion (ppb) and for HAA5 at 60 parts per billion (ppb) to reduce the risk of cancer or other adverse health effects. Compliance with the TTHMs and HAA5 standards for public water systems servicing less than 10,000 individuals initially became effective and enforceable on January 1, 2004. Compliance with the HAA5 standard is determine by calculating a locational running annual average (LRRA) of quarterly HAA5 sample results. Compliance calculations performed for the third quarter of 2022 show that the system’s current HAA5 LRAAs are 66 ppb at sample location DBP02 – 133 Suanna Road and 62 ppb at DBP03- 211 Spruce Drive. Thus, the system is currently in violation of HAA5 standards.
In June 2022, UIL completed the installation of the spray atomizer. UIL has adjusted the spray atomizer and automatic flush valve accordingly to reduce HAA5 concentration. UIL has kept LDH informed of our progress.
Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail. If you have any questions, contact the UIL Compliance Administrator, Vicki Spence at 985-893-6646 – Opt. 2.
This is not an emergency. If it had been, you would have been notified immediately. EPA and LDH do not consider this violation to have any serious adverse health effects on human health as a result of short-term exposure; however, continued long-term exposure to TTHMs and HAA5 levels above the standard (e.g., 20 years of exposure) has the potential to have serious adverse effects on human health.
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
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
SHERIFF’S SALE
VANDERBILT MORTGAGE & FINANCE,INC. # 36895
PARJSH OF JACKSON STATE OF LOUISIANA
MARLON M. JARRELL, JR. A/K/A MARLON JARRELL. JR.
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 26th day of October, 2022. Between the hours governing judicial sales, the following property to wit: 2006 CMH LOCEL MOBILE HOME BEARING SERIAL NUMBER CS2008343TNAB IMMOBILIZED ONTO AND INCLUDING LOT 2, 3, 4, & 5 OF BLOCK 1 OF EROS, LA, AS SHOWN BY ORIGINAL PLAT AND SURVEY OF SAID TOWN OF EROS, NOW ON FILE AND OF RECORD IN THE RECORDER’S OFFICE OF JACKSON PARISH, LA. TOGETHER WITH ALL IMPROVEMENTS THEREON AND APPURTENANCES THEREUNTO BELONGING, SITUATED IN EROS, JACKSON PARISH, LA. (1208 4 th St., Eros, LA 71238)
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.
ANDY BROWN, SHERIFF EX-OFFICIO, AUCTIONEER TINA SPILLERS, DEPUTY
SHERIFF’S SALE
JPMORGAN CHASE BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION # 36115
PARISH OF JACKSON STATE OF LOUISIANA
JEFFREY JERMAINE BRADFORD A/K/A JEFFREY J. BRADFORD
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 26th day of October, 2022. Between the hours governing judicial sales, the following property to wit:
LOT #89-A OF UNIT 4 OF TERRACE HILLS SUBDIVISION TO THE TOWN OF JONESBORO, LOUISIANA, SITUATED IN SECTION 32, TOWNSHIP 15 NORTH, RANGE 3 WEST, AS PER PLAT ON FILE AND OF RECORD IN THE OFFICE OF THE RECORDER OF JACKSON PARISH, LOUISIANA, ALL LOCATED AND SITUATED IN JACKSON PARISH, LOUISIANA, TOGETHER WITH ALL IMPROVEMENTS AND APPURTENANCES THEREUNTO BELONGING.
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 TINA SPILLERS, DEPUTY
Bonnie Faye Sanders August 12, 1932 – September 24, 2022
Bonnie Faye (Smith) Sanders, age 90 of Lafayette, ascended to meet her Lord and Savior and to attend a grand reunion on Saturday, September 24, 2022. Faye is a loving mother, grandmother, great and great-great grandmother and she loved any time spent with her beloved family. She was a wonderful homemaker that doted her time on her loving family. She was a devoted member of Lafayette 1st Baptist Church and she loved her church family as her own. Faye enjoyed hosting parties and was a talented seamstress. She also enjoyed crocheting and knitting as well. She loved to spend time making lap throws and giving them out to others as gifts. Pretty much anything her hands did created something to gift someone from love and of her talents. Her big heart and sweet smile will greatly be missed.
Those left to cherish her memory are her children, James Richard Sanders (Charlene), David Leon Sanders (Donna), Bonnie Elizabeth (Sanders) Lister; grandchildren, James Richard Sanders, Jr. (Etheena), Jason Ryan Sanders, Matthew Sanders Lister (Megan), Christine Elizabeth (Lister) Garcia (Carlos), Joshua Ray Sanders, Derek Lyle Sanders (Kylie), Elizabeth Ann (Lister) Bittle (Khim), David Canon Lister (Terry), Linda Diane (Lister) Whitmer (Mark); numerous great grandchildren; numerous great-great grandchildren; sister in law, Christine Smith; life long friend, Edie Rainer; a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
She was preceded in death by her husband, James M. Sanders; great grandson, Canon Maxwell Garcia; parents, Stephen Ocey and Bonnie Jewel (Taylor) Smith; siblings, David Cedrick Smith, Geraldine (Smith) Harris, Ocey Cleonis Smith; son in laws, Dr. Irvin Lister, John Noel.
Friends may visit with the family on Saturday, October 1, 2022 in the chapel of Southern-Edmonds Funeral Home from 1:00PM until 2:30PM. A graveside service will follow in Sweetwater Baptist Cemetery at 3:00PM with Reverend Stuart Toms officiating. Burial will follow under the directions of Southern-Edmonds Funeral Home.
Karl Dean Sisemore April 18, 1952 – September 23, 2022
Funeral services for Karl Dean Sisemore, 70, of Clay, Louisiana was held Tuesday, September 27, 2022 in the chapel of Kilpatrick Funeral Home in Ruston. Dusty Taylor officiated and interment followed at Sisemore Cemetery in Clay, Louisiana.
Karl was born on April 18, 1952 in Ruston and passed away at home in Clay, Louisiana on September 23, 2022. He was self employed in underground utility construction. He was preceded in death by his parents, Homer and Sarah Beatty Sisemore; sister, Paula Sisemore Chiles; and brother, Lester K. Sisemore.
Karl is survived by his daughters, Leslie Sisemore Saucier and husband Ronald, Emily Sisemore Webb and husband Russ, Alicia Sisemore-Norman; grandchildren, Ryan Saucier, Kara Saucier, Amber Saucier, Logan Webb, Connor Webb, Skyleigh Webb, Eli Norman, Kathryn Sisemore; sister, Linda Gail Corley; several nieces, nephews and other cherished family and friends.
Pallbearers were Ronald Saucier, Russ Webb, Ryan Saucier, Logan Webb, Connor Webb, and Eli Norman. Honorary pallbearer was Orie Hatten.
After an extremely successful event in 2022 that showcased the Northern Louisiana fisheries to a global audience, the Bass Pro Tour returns to Caney Creek Reservoir and the Bussey Brake Wildlife Management area in Monroe, Louisiana, April 24-29, for the fourth annual General Tire Heavy Hitters all-star event. Numerous Bass Pro Tour records were set at the venue in 2022, including Randy Howell weighing in the largest bass ever caught in Bass Pro Tour competition – a 12-pound, 14-ounce giant.
Major League Fishing made the announcement on Friday with the release of the 2023 MLF Bass Pro Tour schedule. The fifth season of professional bass fishing’s most prestigious circuit will showcase 80 of the top bass anglers in the world competing in seven regular-season tournaments around the country for millions of dollars, valuable points in the Bally Bet Angler of the Year race, and to qualify for REDCREST 2024, the Bass Pro Tour championship, and the annual General Tire Heavy Hitters all-star event.
Former Oakland Raider owner and general manager said it best when ask what was most important when he coyly replied – JUST WIN BABY! Attempting to accomplish that goal has been elusive for the Jonesboro-Hodge this season but by rallying past Lincoln Prep 30-26 this past Friday night the Tigers finally got a win after three season opening losses. The visiting Panthers fell to 2-2 with the loss. The difference in the game came when Tiger H-Back, Chase Leonard, bulled his way into the endzone from three yards out with just 47 seconds left to play.
It could be said that the contest was the one of the more exciting ones ever played at Caldwell Peacock stadium as both teams fell behind twice before making comebacks to take the lead. Exciting yes! Well played? A resounding NO!
In what can only be termed as a “comedy of errors,” in reality, neither team deserved to win. The stats prove the point. Both teams turned the ball over four times, albeit in different fashion. For the Tigers the main culprit was an inept passing game that completed more downfield passes to their opponent and gave up one of the two fumbles lost. All led to Lincoln Prep scores.
The villian in the “dramatic tragedy” for the visiting Panther was their special teams that allowed two block punts, a blocked extra point attempt and fumbled another attempt to punt. The offense also threw an interception for good measure. Four more times errant passes hit Tiger defenders squarely in the hands only to be dropped. SIGH!
On the positive side, out of the darkness that was result of the inept ball security demonstrated by both teams, a historic measure was acheived. That being junior linebacker Xavier Atkins etching his name into the alltime record annals for blocking two punts in one half. Alas,Atkins also became the first Tiger player in recent memory to be ejected from a game before the end of the first half as result of two unsportsmanlike conduct penalites. YIKES!
Not only was both teams generous to the opponent to a fault, often times neither could even complete a play without making an infraction of some kind. Twenty-nine (29) times the referrees threw the penalty flag. Jonesboro-Hodge has played played football games for over 100 years and this was the most combinded penalties called – EVER!
Fortunately for the Tigers it was Lincoln Prep who committed the most fouls getting whistled 19 times compared to just (?) 10 for the Tigers. The 19 penalties sets another JHHS school record as most ever by an opponent.
In the end not even the sweet taste of victory could take out the sour taste head coach Terrance Blankenship had in his mouth following the contest.
“I guess I should be happy we got the win, but we have got to get better quick or it’s going to be a long season,” bemoaned Blankenship. “There is nothing about this game that I am pleased with other than the guys kept plugging to finally come out on top.”
The contest looked like an easy win for the Tigers at the start. After forcing L-Prep to a “three and out” on their first possession, Atkins blasted through to block the punt, setting the Tigers up at the Panther 14 yard line. Ed’Tavious Drayton then rambled 14 yards ion the first play from scrimmage to give JHHS a 6-0 lead.
JHHS drove to the L-Prep 9 yard line on their next possession only to throw a pick but a bad snap on the Panthers punt attempt set JHHS back up on the opponents 39 yard line. Three straight runs by Drayton and JHHS was up 12-0 and seeminly in total control.
The score stayed that way until just a little over four minutes remained in the second quarter when the Tigers coughed up their third turnover of the first half. That set off a series of events that left Tiger faithful stunned and shaking their heads in disbelief.
With the ball on the Tiger 22 yard line following the give away, L-Prep scored in three plays to narrow the margin to 12-6. Inspired by the score the Panthers took over at the Tigers 45 yard line. With just 2:01 left in the half, Lincoln Prep managed to convert a fourth and long and third and long, the latter being a 16 yard touchdown pass that tied the score.
What happened next was almost inconceivable. With five seconds left in the half the Tigers allowed Lincoln Prep to recover a pooch kick that no one on the kick return team even attempted to retrieve. Then with just time for one play left and knowing that the ball had to be thrown into the endzone, unbelievably a Panther receiver was left wide open in the corner of the end zone sending JHHS into the half trailing by an 18-12 margin.
To the Tiger coaching staff’s and players credit, JHHS opened the second half by the offensive line leading the way to two straight touchdowns. Twelve straight time the Tigers ran the ball behind their behemoth line resulting in 115 yards gained and both Drayton and Dominick Strickland scoring that gave JHHS a 24-18 lead.
The Tigers seemed to be in total control at that point, when once again they became their own worst enemy. Driving for what certainly would be the a nail in the Panthers coffin, the Tigers fumbled again. That led to L-Prep marching 72 yards in 8 plays to tie the game. The two point conversion put the Tigers behind 26-24.
Tired of seeing his offense self destruct, when the Tigers took over at their own 39 yard line, Blankenship turned to Symeon Malone at quarterback and freshman, Jason Blackburn at tailback. The move provided positive inertia as Blackburn scampered for a couple of good gains and Malone found Zion Gray for a crucial third down conversion setting up Leonard’s game winning score.
Ed’Tavious Drayton rushed the ball 19 times for a career high 190 yards and three scores to lead the Tiger offense. Jason Blackburn added 77 yards on 8 carries. Xavier Atkins, despite missing the entire second half, led the defense with 10 tackles, two assists, one sack, two tackles for a loss and two blocked punts.