Six times before the Weston High School girl’s and boys’ basketball teams lost one and won one on the same night. It happened again this past Thursday but for the first time all year, this time around it was the boys who came out victorious while the girls lost, both in close games, against Claiborne Christian. 

Weston 68 Claiborne Christian 67 (boys): With head coach Jacob Otwell forced to patchwork a new starting lineup every night early in the year the Wolves lost six of their first seven. Now back at full strength, WHS has won four of the last seven including a season-best two in a row. Even more important is how the Wolves won the thrilling one-point contest, making their best rally of the year and having four players reach double figures for the first time all season. Promising even more future success is the late-game heroics by a pair of unsung heroes. 

Bryce Zehr and Tait Henderson poured in eight and seven points respectively in the initial frame that ended with WHS trailing 22-21. Mitchel Mathews caught fire in the second and third quarters to score all but two of his 18 points in the contest but that was all the points scored other than a three-pointer in the 2nd and 3rd by Zehr and a third-quarter basket by Henderson as Weston entered the final frame trailing 53-45. Zehr scored five and Henderson four in the final frame but it was the unexpected contributions by Ja’Michael Fourd and Braden Theriot that made the difference. Fourd hit a pair of three-pointers and scored 8 of his season best, 10 points and Theriot tallied all six of his points in the decisive quarter as Weston rallied from being 8 points behind. 

Final stats show Zehr leading the “double-digit” contention with 19 points that included five 3-pointers, followed by Mathews with 18, Henderson with 13, and Fourd with ten. Theriot had six and Jude Otwell scored two. The victory improved the Wolves to 5-9 on the year, while Claiborne Christian, who got 21 points and 6 three-pointers from AJ Allen, fell to 9-6. 

TEAM	1	2	3	4	FINAL
Weston (5-9)	21	11	13	23	68
Claiborne Christian (9-6)	22	17	14	14	67

Claiborne Christian 44 Weston 42 (Girls): After coming from eight points behind at the half to take a four-point lead in the third period, the Lady Wolves had several shots to win it but couldn’t rally again at the end. Being held to just a season low, nine first-half points that included only two in the second quarter, Claiborne Christian took a 17-9 lead into intermission. With Briley Peterson exploding for 13 of her team-high 19 points in the third, Weston vaulted to a 29-24 lead but then went cold again as Claiborne Christian took a 34-31 lead heading into the final frame. Weston knotted the score at 36 but missed 6 of 7 field goals and six free throws down the stretch to fall to drop their third in the last five games that leaves them with a 13-4 record on the season. Jessica Newton was second in scoring behind Peterson with 9 points and pulled down 12 rebounds, one more than Lexi Millien who added 5 points on the night. Lainee Trosclair also had five and Emma Kate McBride finished with four. By winning their sixth straight Claiborne Christian improved to 10-3 and evened the season series with Weston at one apiece.

TEAM	1	2	3	4	TOTAL
Weston (13-4)	7	2	22	11	42
Claiborne Christian (10-3)	9	8	17	10	44

Upcoming games: 

Weston takes to the road for three of four games slated on a busy week ahead. On Monday, Weston travels to Dodson followed by the season series tiebreaker at Claiborne Christian on Tuesday. Another road trip, this time to Calvin takes place on Thursday before ending the week at home against Atlanta. All games are scheduled to begin at 6:00pm with the exception of the visit to Claiborne Christian contest that will tip off at 5:00pm for junior varsity action. 

 

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Sponsor Packages for the Jackson Parish Library Park and Inclusive Playground are now available. All funds raised will go directly to offset the cost of this addition that will be located at the Jonesboro Branch on the corner of 7th Street and Allen Avenue. For more information on how to be a part of this upcoming asset to the community, contact Angela Walsworth at (318) 259 – 5697. 

For more details on the various sponsorship packages offered see below. 

Jonesboro Branch December Children Events 

December Events at Chatham Branch

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After starting the season by losing their first six games of the year the Jonesboro Hodge Lady Tigers won their first two of the year in back to back fashion during the West Ouachita Tournament played this past weekend. It was a stalwart defensive effort in both that allowed only 28 points in each while also posting the most points in a game this year that put an end to the early season misery. 

“I am proud of the way the girls have continued to work to get better,” said head coach Kris Cash. “Hopefully this will be the start of us turning the season around.”

JHHS 40 D’Arbonne Woods 28: (girls) The swarming JHHS defense forced a season-best 42 turnovers that included 22 steals and limited DWC to just a 19% field goal average while the offense grabbed 20 offensive rebounds and scored 32 points in the paint. It was a balanced attack that saw eight of the ten players on the roster score and three ties for game-high scoring honors in LeRonda McGuire, Tyya Davis, and Kaelin Palmer all finishing with 8 points apiece. A’Joriana Hoggro, who also registered a career-high nine steals in the contest had six points, Morgan McGee added five, and McKenzie Bradford, Jalenya Jackson, and Jessica Bradford tallied two apiece. 

TEAM	1	2	3	4	TOTAL
JHHS (1-6)	9	8	12	11	40
DWC (1-5)	3	6	12	7	28

JHHS 31 Loyola Prep 28: (girls) Kaelin Palmer scored three of her team high 11 ponts and Jalyena Jackson hit a clutch three pointer for her only points in the game in the fourth period as JHHS rallied from a 26-25 third quarter deficit to take the victory. Adding to the victory was a stout defensive effort in the final frame that allowed Loyola Prep only two points. A’Joriana Hoggro scored eight on the night, including six in the third quarter to help the Lady Tigers pull to within one. LeRonda McGuire added six and Jamauri Kimble hit three of four free throws to round out the scoring. 

TEAM	1	2	3	4	TOTAL
JHHS (2-6)	8	6	11	6	31
LOYOLA PREP (1-7)	6	10	10	2	28

Franklin Parish 78 JHHS 54 (boys): The 9th ranked team in Division II “non-select” won their fifth straight and improved to 7-3 on the season by outscoring the Tigers in every quarter. Starting the week as #1 among “non-select” schools in Division IV, the Tigers lost their second straight to even their season record at 2-2. Ajay Tew scored 15 to lead the locals while Zion Gray added 13. Jaylin Barnes and Jarrius Lumpkin scored six each and both Savantex Phillips and Kaelin Boston added five. ZaMarion Palmer and Edward Beard finished with three. 

TEAM	1	2	3	4	TOTAL
JHHS (2-2)	13	14	17	10	54
FPHS (7-3)	21	17	20	29	78

JHHS 50 Neville 38 (boys) JHHS held their Division I opponent to just two first-quarter points and allowed only a season-low 38 points to get back on track and up their record to 3-2. The victory moved the Tigers to #7 in the power rankings while Neville fell to 3-5 on the year. Ajay Tew poured in a season-best 26 points that included a perfect 6/6 from the line to lead the offensive effort. Zion Gray added 11, Savantez Phillips 6, Jarrius Lumpkin 5, and Za’Marion Palmer scored two for the Tigers who will host Lincoln Prep on Tuesday and travel to undefeated Sterlington, which is ranked 2nd in Divison III, on Thursday.

TEAM	1	2	3	4	TOTAL
JHHS (3-2)	9	13	15	13	50
Neville (3-5)	2	10	13	13	38

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The Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce that Southern-Edmonds Funeral Home in Jonesboro has been named as the Business of the Month for December. Located at 228 Allen Avenue in Jonesboro, Southern-Edmonds has been a a fixture and asset in the community since 1921. The staff of licensed funeral directors are caring and experienced professionals who understand that each family is unique and has personal requests and traditions. To set up an appointment to discuss pre-planning or immediate needs call one of Edmonds-Southern Funeral Home caring professionals at (318) 259-2345.

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We’re right in the middle of one of my favorite times of year. Deer season is going strong, I have the privilege of writing stories of big bucks taken around the state for LA Sportsman magazine and this year, some of the stories are exciting; some are quirky.

Let me start by mentioning a quirky one. Mitchell Legendre, Houma resident who hunts in DeSoto Parish told me a story that is wacky to say the least. While walking to his stand one afternoon last month, he saw what he at first thought was a big buzzard. The startled bird flew over him and something fell, almost hitting Legendre in the head.

He got a better look at the bird and realized it was a bald eagle and upon checking to see what the bird had dislodged as it flew overhead – he thought a branch must have been been knocked aloose. He looked down to find a three pound largemouth bass, freshly caught by the eagle from nearby Toledo Bend lake. He took the bass back to camp, fileted and fried it for supper. The next morning, he walked back to his stand and downed a big 9 point buck.

“I was blessed twice during my two day hunt,” said Legendre. “First a bass falls from the sky at my feet and I downed the biggest buck I ever got.”

Next, here’s a story about two impressive trophy bucks taken on the same day less than a hundred miles apart in one of the state’s areas set aside for hunting, Area 2 which encompasses much of north central Louisiana.

Having an encounter with a genuine trophy buck is not that uncommon for hunters in the eastern part of the state along the Mississippi delta. Soils in that part of the state are richer and provide the impetus for plant materials high in protein that can produce bucks with impressive antlers and body weights. In general, Area 2 does not offer the same high quality soils and foods to make deer grow that large. To take two bucks, each with antler measurements over 180 inches is a rarity for Area 2. To take them on the same day is rare indeed.

Lee Comer was hunting near Black Lake in Natchitoches Parish when he had an encounter with a huge buck. When the big buck stepped out on the morning of November 13, Comer got his scope lined up on the buck that was standing broadside at 40 yards.

When he touched the trigger, the sound he heard was sickening…..CLICK….the firing pin landed on a faulty bullet. The buck continued to stand and look at him while he nervously and as quietly as he could, eased the action open, removed the faulty bullet and inserted another. Incredibly, the buck was still standing and staring at him when he finally got his shot off. The
buck, which carried a rack of 11 points, scored an eye-popping 182 1/8 inches of antler.

Meanwhile on that same afternoon, November 13, Jordan Parker who lives in Benton, was hunting land in Bossier Parish. As he settled into his ground blind in a hardwood bottom, he first watched a doe step out at 100 yards and then watched her ease on off.

While he was watching the doe, he heard another deer walking through the woods and the biggest buck he ever saw, one that had shown up in mostly nighttime images on his trail camera, stepped out. Parker was able to get the crosshairs of his scope on the shoulder, hit the trigger and watched the buck run about 10 yards before collapsing.

Parker’s buck, a 12 point with symmetrical evenly matched antlers earned antler measurements of 181 inches.

An eagle delivering a gift fish plus two 180-plus inch bucks on the same day in an area not known for trophy bucks. I can’t wait to hear what the next successful hunter has to tell.

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FISHING REPORT

BLACK BAYOU – Crappie fishing is fair on jigs and shiners. No report on bass or bream. Contact Honey Hole Tackle Shop 323-8707 for latest information.
BUSSEY BRAKE – Crappie fishing has been best on jigs or shiners around the boat ramp and nearby trees. Bass have fair to good flipping jigs around structure. For latest information, contact the Honey Hole at 323-8707.
OUACHITA RIVER – Overall, fishing for bass and crappie has been fair at best. Nothing really good to report. For latest information, contact the Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707.
LAKE D’ARBONNE – Crappie fishing had been on fire this week with lots of reports of limits with some nice sized fish caught mostly along channel edges on shiners or jigs. Bass fishing has been best fishing soft plastics and crank baits off the points with the Corney Creek area producing best. Bream are slow while catfish are biting cold worms fished off the banks. For latest information, call Anderson Sport Center at 368-9669 or Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707.
LAKE CLAIBORNE – Crappie fishing has been best fishing around the lights at night with shiners or jigs. Bass have been fair fishing crank baits off the points. A few catfish have been caught on cold worms with jug fishing using chunks of wieners taking a few. The bream and stripers are slow. For latest information, call Kel’s Cove at 927-2264 or Terzia Tackle at 278-
4498.
CANEY LAKE – Jigging spoons and tail spinners are working best on bass bouncing these lures off the bottom in 18-20 foot deep water. Soft plastics and deep diving crank baits have been producing some around humps just off the channels with a few in the 7-8 pound range. Crappie fishing continues to be best fishing the deep tops on shiners or jigs. No report on bream or
catfish.. For information contact Hooks Marina at 249-2347, Terzia Tackle at 278-4498 or the Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707.
LAKE POVERTY POINT – Crappie fishing has improved both around the slips and on the lower end of the lake on shiners or jigs. Catfishing continues to be good with mostly smaller sizes reported. No report on bass. For latest reports, call Poverty Point Marina at 318/878-0101.
LAKE YUCATAN – The water has come up just a bit but is still quite low. Some real slab crappie have been caught on jigs or shiners. Bass have done well with some nice sized fish caught on soft plastics and spinners. Catfish are doing well on trotlines. For information, call Surplus City Landing at 318/467-2259.

Due to forecasted inclimate weather on Tuesday, the date for the Forest Haven Pop Up Christmas and Resident Family Party has been changed to Thursday, December 15th. The time that festivities will begin remains at 2:00pm. You are invitived to call the Activities Department at (318) 259 – 2729 for more information.

Come join the fun try your hand at the gingerbread house contest, go shopping at our first ever Main Street vendor shops or jump on the famous Grit & Grace bus. We will have live music and even a Photo Booth for your keepsake memorabilia. Forest Haven Nursing Home and Rehabilition Center is located at 175 Thrasher Drive in Jonesboro.

To see a video of the event click here.

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Due to forecasted inclimate weather on Tuesday, the date for the Forest Haven Pop Up Christmas and Resident Family Party has been changed to Thursday, December 15th. The time that festivities will begin remains at 2:00pm. You are invitived to call the Activities Department at (318) 259 – 2729 for more information.

Come join the fun try your hand at the gingerbread house contest, go shopping at our first ever Main Street vendor shops or jump on the famous Grit & Grace bus. We will have live music and even a Photo Booth for your keepsake memorabilia. Forest Haven Nursing Home and Rehabilition Center is located at 175 Thrasher Drive in Jonesboro.

For a video of the event click here.

The moment you meet your first granddaughter, you intuitively know that you have not saved enough money and never could save enough money to buy this child everything you would want to give her, whether she needed it (she won’t) or not.

Abigail Jane Hilton showed up on a Monday, July 18, in Murray, Ky., where, conveniently, her mother was. I met her mother when she was three years old. I met Abigail Jane Saturday when she was just over four months old.

I’m getting better at timing.

She was 21 inches long and weighed 8 pounds and 1 ounce. In other words, perfect size. (I guess. Who knows?) I was proud — overcome with emotion, near tears and trembling — that the world’s best daughter and best son-in-law named the child after me. (Teddy’s just my nickname.)

The main thing is that she hasn’t been sickly, seems very healthy, has a good disposition, and sports plumbing that is on the money. It all comes back to plumbing.

Since she lives in Kentucky, mooching off her parents, we are not able to see her daily BUT … her mother is great about sending pictures, and not just the cute ones. We get the ones of her all bundled up and smiling or on the floor with Stanley the dachshund, her big brother, laughing and making baby noises, but we also get photos of her with a triple chin and videos of accidental spit up, which she did on me when I met her Saturday, and it was neat smelling like baby formula the rest of the day.

I’d missed it.

Love that kid.

When she was 10 weeks old, they took her in to get measured again and her mom proudly wrote to tell us that Abigail Jane, or AJ, ranked in the 98th percentile in head size. And after viewing it in person, I can tell you this precious little person has a noggin perfect for selling advertising space. A quality melon. A head the size of your favorite team’s sideline mascot. I’m convinced that if we could light it up, you could see it from outer space.

We are hopeful she grows into it and that there are lots of smart brains up in there. Regardless, it is my favorite baby dome at present, the perfect topper for what grandmama calls her “snuggle muffin.”

She was on the floor on her back “watching” a football game in the den when I got to visit with her. Like most babies, she moves her hands and feet as if she’s trying to break out of an invisible bubble. She loves playing with your fingers and holding her feet together up in the air so her legs form an oval. She is quick to smile and even laugh, and she seemed to understand when I explained the rules when TCU and Kansas State went into overtime in the Big 12 Championship, her first overtime ever. She giggled, but the urgency seemed lost on her

She also seemed confused with TCU choice to run dive plays instead of options with their Heisman-finalist quarterback on third- and fourth-and-goal plays from the 1.

That’s when granddaddy suggested that sometimes life is like that, that acceptance is necessary and a time-saver, that you salute the past, dust yourself off, drink some more formula, have a good burp, and move on.

We’ve got a lot to learn from each other.

Contact Teddy at teddy@latech.edu

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The second meet and greet for the EMT course instructors for the class starting after the first of the year is scheduled for December 15th from 6:00 – 8:00pm at the Jackson Parish Ambulance Service District Training Center located at 115 Watts Avenue in Jonesboro. 

If your desire is to start the new year with a new skill, then take the opportunity to tour the training center and meet the instructors so they can answer any questions about a possible career in Emergency Medical Services (EMS). To learn more or RSVP give a call to (318) 259-2877 or go to the education tab at jpasd.com

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If you read “Bob, a DJ and a clown” on a guest list, are three people coming to the party, or only one? That depends on whether you’re for or against the Oxford comma — perhaps the most hotly contested punctuation mark of all time. The “Oxford comma” is an optional comma before the word “and” at the end of a list. The following is an example of the use of an Oxford comma.

We sing songs, hymns, and choruses.

The question for those of us who write is when to use the Oxford comma. If you read back over these tomes, you will find that some days I am in the mood to use it and on other days I leave it out. Some editors send out style guidelines in which they articulate the use or non-use of the comma. I wrote and published Sunday School lessons for a decade for a company that was theologically and grammatically opposed to the Oxford comma.

You may need the Oxford comma for clarification.

This is probably an apocryphal book dedication, but it shows what happens when the Oxford comma is omitted.

This book is dedicated to my parents, Any Rand and God.

The omitted comma has given theological import to the sentence. Your eyes might fix it and your brain knows that Any Rand and God are not the parents of the author. From a grammatical point of view the sentence is correct, but the meaning is muddy or heretical depending on your perspective.

I want you to ponder this comma.

God is always trying to sneak that Oxford comma into the grammar of our souls. He sends little blessings and reminders of His love for us. He moves in small ways that allow our hearts to experience His grace. We want God to speak big, loud, and boldly. We want fireworks! We want certainty. The essence of faith is to believe where we can’t clearly see. Believe that in those small commas that drop into your soul God is working His plan in your life.

Finally, the comma makes you pause. We need those pauses in our lives. We need time to just sit and be.

I received a Christmas card the other day from a dear friend. The last line of her note encouraged me to “linger in His presence long enough to let God’s blessings happen.”

I think the Oxford comma has reminded me of God’s amazing grace in Jesus.

How is God punctuating your life?

Mark you calendar to make sure you don’t miss the live presentation of Christmas with a Twist that will be performed by the students of Quitman High School on Tuesday, December 20th in the QHS auditorium. Two showings are being offered with the first to begin at 10:00am followed by a 6:00pm performance. Cost to attend is $1:00 for the am show and $5.00 for the pm show. 

QHS Students attend La Tech Engineering and Science Day

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Backstop Pads installed at QHS Softball Field

Trust it’s True

“And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.

And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord (Luke 2:8-11 KJV).”

I’ve heard these Bible verses recited.

I’ve read the scripture passage countless times. It’s a Christmas tradition.

I easily visualize the angelic host; fearful shepherds and their restless flock.

I believe the story.

It’s not fallacy or fantasy; it’s factual.

Luke clearly recorded the shepherd’s reaction and their response to what they saw and heard.

Faith leads me to trust it’s true.

Yet, I do wonder about how the sheep reacted.

It seems to me that fear would be the normal response.

Sheep often panic and cause a stampede!

A bright light shone above and the proclamation of angels echoed around them.

Fear could have led to flight.

Did any of the sheep go astray?

We are as fearful sheep.

“For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls (1 Peter 2:25 KJV).”

The Lord is my Shepherd. (Psalm 23)

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The Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church, located at 1712 Church Street in East Hodge, joyfully invites you to the 3rd Anniversary Celebration for Pastor Gavin Hamms at 11:00am on Sunday, December 11th. Helping commemorate the special day will be guest speaker, Pastor G. Tomell Hamms and the chior of the New Zion Baptist Church in Winnfield. 

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A dozen or so years ago the seventh of December came and passed with little regard in my mind. I believe the day fell on a Tuesday this particular year, and like most Tuesdays, I was working on “the same old, same old.” There was the Bernice Banner to print; there were Christmas Greetings advertisements to sell; there was a Minden Medical Center special section to design.

I paid no attention to the historical significance of the date. Well, on December the eighth, my phone went to ringing early in the morning. It was the only call I received on the matter, but the gentleman on the other end of the receiver made an impression.

“Why hadn’t we had anything about Pearl Harbor in yesterday’s paper?”

There was no anger. Just a simple question. The man, I could tell he was elderly, surprised me, and I distinctly remember fumbling a bit with my words.

He told me not to fret; his ire wasn’t raised, only his disappointment. Then he told me (and this I remember clearly), “We just don’t ever need to forget it, son.”

December the seventh in the year of our Lord nineteen hundred and forty-one. The attack on Pearl Harbor, much like the terror attacks of September 11, 2001, came in the early hours of the morning.

Nine-eleven came on an overcast fall morning while commuters were making their way to work, but Pearl Harbor was struck on a Sunday, a time traditionally reserved for prayer, fellowship, and worship.

Instead of a morning of thoughtful reflection, of clasped hands and quiet words were spoken to the One above, the American soldiers and civilians in Hawaii were treated to slaughter. The Japanese attack lasted for two hours. The death toll was more than 2,000 American sailors and more than 300 Marines.

Shortly thereafter, America was at war against a fearsome and powerful enemy the likes of which this nation has yet to face again. The German and Japanese war machines cut a swath of bloody destruction in all directions from Berlin and Tokyo.

Their goal was singular – conquest. Yet America did not falter. America did not tremble in fear of the swastika or shield its eyes against the terror of the Rising Sun.

On the frozen fields of Europe – Americans fought.

In the mud of South Pacific jungles – Americans fought.

On the beaches of Normandy and Iwo Jima – Americans fought.

In the four years that followed Pearl Harbor, this nation was consumed with the war effort. It was our passion, our defense of everything that was good in the world, and the certainty it was worth fighting for.

Victory did come. Its achievement was not without monumental sacrifice and the eventual utilization of a weapon so frightening that it has never again been used in battle.

The attack on Pearl Harbor, America’s response, and the lengths to which we were forced to go to end continued conflict irreversibly changed the way wars are fought on this planet. The fear of weapons of mass destruction has kept humans from waging another World War for more than eight decades.

The heroes who lost their lives must be remembered because their deaths sparked a country’s call for retribution, for justice, for freedom’s long-lasting reign. And every day that passes to see the enduring of free people is a salute to those who died on December the seventh, 1941.

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The Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce (JPCC) extends their welcome to Big Boy Mowing, a new business in our parish and the newest member of the JPCC. For all your lawn care needs call Ricky and/or Sharon Merideth at (318) 475-5233.

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This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named or shown in photographs or video as suspects in a criminal investigation, or arrested and charged with a crime, have not been convicted of any criminal offense and are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Rayford Miller (West Monroe, LA) – Domestic Abuse Battery, Aggravated Battery – 2nd Degree
Angela Miller ( Eros, LA) – Caldwell Parish Warrant fo Failure to Appear on charge of No Insurance
Robert A Grant (Jonesboro, LA) – Domestic Abuse Battery
Dekota H Brewer ( North Hodge, LA) – Possession of Schedule II drug
Quentin Brooks (Jonesboro, LA) – Parole and Probation Warrant
Gregory Manning (Eros, LA) – Warrant for Probation Violation
Clifford Redding (North Hodge, LA) – Unlawful Presence of a Sex Offender
Herschel R Mize (Jonesboro, LA) – Simple Battery, Simple Criminal Damage to Property
Crystal Jones (Jonesboro, LA) Careless Operation, DWI – 1st offense, Possession of Marijuana
James McDaniel (Hodge, LA) – Probation Warrant
Christopher J Lewis (Jonesboro, LA) Improper Lane Usage, Possession of Marijuana
James F Culpepper (Quitman, LA) – Jackson Parish Bench Warrant for Failure to Appear

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To have your job opportunities, business services, items, or any Legal/Public Notices, Advertisements for Bid, Requests for Proposals, and/or Quotes listed – send an 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! 

 

 

JOB OPENING

The Village of Quitman has an opening for the position of Part Time Clerk. Please bring Resume to Village of Quitman between 8-12 Tuesday-Thursday (Dec. 13-15). Pay will be discussed after Interviews are conducted and candidate is selected. Will take Resumes until December 15th a 11:00 am. The Village of Quitman is an equal opportunity employer!

FOR SALE

Book – “100-year history of JHHS football”  Comprehensive year-by-year description of the first 100 years (1919-2019) of JHHS football. Includes categorial individual and team top ten rankings. Perfect Christmas gift for that family member or friend who would enjoy remembering their “glory days”. The cost is $25.00 per book plus $3.00 for 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.

 

Public Notices

*****Important Information About Your Drinking Water****
Magnolia Water UOC – Spring Creek Water System, PWS# LA1049028

Monitoring Requirements Not Met For Spring Creek Subdivision Water System Spring Creek Water System (Magnolia Water UOC) did not fulfill the monitoring requirements over the past year. Even though this was not an emergency, as our customers, you have a right to know what happened and what we did to correct the situation

What Happened?

We are required to monitor your drinking water for specific contaminants on a regular basis. Results of regular monitoring are an indicator of whether or not our drinking water meets health standards. During the period of June 1 through September 30, 2022, we did not complete all required monitoring for lead and copper and, therefore, cannot be sure of the quality of our
drinking water during that time. Necessary action has been taken to prevent this violation from recurring.

What is being done?

Central States Water Resources Louisiana (CSWR-LA) purchased the facility in July 2022 and personnel are working to ensure monitoring requirements are met every year going forward.

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.

Magnolia Water UOC is committed to bringing our customers safe, reliable water services and will continue to work with the LDH to carry out this commitment.

For more information, please contact Magnolia Water at 1-855-643-8152.
This notice is being sent to you by Spring Creek Water system. PWS ID# LA1049028
Date distributed: December 11, 2022

Jackson Parish Police Jury Meeting Minutes
November 15, 2022

The Jackson Parish Police Jury met in regular session on Tuesday, November 15, 2022, at 5:30 PM in the Dr. Charles H. Garrett Community Center, 182 Industrial Drive, Jonesboro, Louisiana. Members Present: Mr. Todd Culpepper, Mr. Lewis Chatham, Ms. Amy Magee, Ms. Tarneshala Cowans, Ms. Regina Rowe, and Mr. Lynn Treadway. Absent: Mr. John McCarty. Also present, Mr. Brad Roller, Operations Manager; Mr. Jody Stuckey, Road Superintendent; Mr. Robin Sessions, Solid Waste Superintendent; Mr. Darrell Avery, Assistant D.A.; and Mr. Paul Riley, Parish Engineer.
The President, Mr. Treadway, called the meeting to order. Ms. Cowans gave the invocation and Mr. Chatham led in the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance.
The President opened the floor for public comments. There were no public comments.
The President moved to the approval of minutes.
Motion by Ms. Magee, second by Mr. Chatham to adopt the minutes of the October 18th Jury Meeting, monthly purchase orders, and the payment of all bills. Motion carried.
The President moved to Committee Reports.
Motion by Mr. Chatham, second by Ms. Cowans to adopt the following minutes from the October 19th Solid Waste Committee meeting. Motion carried.
Solid Waste Committee
October 19, 2022
The Solid Waste Committee met Wednesday, October 19, 2022, at 12:00 PM in the Nathaniel Zeno, Jr. Meeting Room, Jackson Parish Administrative Building, 160 Industrial Drive, Jonesboro, Louisiana. Members Present: Ms. Amy Magee, Mr. John McCarty, and Mr. Lynn Treadway. Absent: None. Also present: Mr. Todd Culpepper, Mr. Brad Roller, Operations Manager and Mr. Robin Sessions, Solid Waste Superintendent.
The meeting was called to order by the Chair, Mr. Lynn Treadway. Ms. Magee gave the invocation and Mr. McCarty led in the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance.
Motion by Mr. McCarty, second by Ms. Magee to recommend to the Police Jury for the purchase of an excavator for the transfer station. Motion carried.
Motion by Ms. Magee, second by Mr. McCarty to recommend to the Police Jury for the purchase of a new $380,000 compactor truck for year 2024 from ARP funds. Motion carried.
Motion by Ms. Magee, second by Mr. McCarty to recommend to the Police Jury for the purchase of 32 new trash bins from ARP funds. Motion carried.
Motion by Ms. Magee, second by Mr. McCarty to recommend to the Police Jury for the approval of overtime for the solid waste employees: 4 employees on November 12, 2022, a full crew on November 26, 2022, and a full crew on December 26, 2022. Motion carried.
Motion by Ms. Magee, second by Mr. McCarty to adjourn. Motion carried.
Motion by Mr. Culpepper, second by Ms. Magee to approve the purchase of 32 trash bins from ARP Funds. Motion carried.
Motion by Mr. Chatham, second by Ms. Magee to approve the purchase of an Excavator for the Transfer Station. Motion carried.
Motion by Mr. Culpepper, second by Mr. Chatham to approve the setting aside $380,000 of ARP Funds for the purchase of an excavator for Year 2024. Motion carried.
Motion by Ms. Rowe, second by Mr. Culpepper to approve the holiday overtime of Solid Waste employees: 4 employees on November 12, 2022; a full crew on November 26, 2022; and a full crew on December 26, 2022. Motion carried.
The President called for monthly management reports.
Mr. Brad Roller, Operations Manager, gave the October 2022 Operations Manager Report.
Mr. Jody Stuckey, Road Superintendent, Mr. Jamie Holland presented the October 2022 Road report noting that $804.36 had been spent on emergency call-outs/off-schedule work.
Motion by Ms. Magee, second by Mr. Culpepper to accept the October 2022 emergency call outs/off-schedule report. Motion carried.
Mr. Robin Sessions, Solid Waste Superintendent, presented the October 2022 Solid Waste report.
Mr. Emmett Gibbs, Secretary-Treasurer, gave the October Financial Report highlighting the budget vs. actual comparisons for all funds.
The President moved on to Other Business.
Mr. Paul Riley, Parish Engineer, gave an update on parish engineering projects.
Motion by Mr. Culpepper, second by Ms. Magee to approve the use of the Community Center for the Northwest Regional 4-H Quarterly Meeting on November 30, 2022. Motion carried.
Motion by Ms. Magee, second by Mr. Culpepper to table the Revised Building Permit Application and Building Permit Checklist for the Projects Committee to review. Motion carried.
Motion by Ms. Magee, second by Mr. Culpepper to accept the 2023 Materials bids. Motion carried.
Motion by Ms. Magee, second by Ms. Rowe to adopt a resolution to enter into agreements with the Riley Company and Frye Magee associated with administration and engineering services for the FY 2023 LCDBG Program. Motion carried.
Motion by Ms. Magee, second by Ms. Rowe to adopt the FY 2023 LCDBG Program Procurement Policy. Motion carried.
Motion by Ms. Magee, second by Ms. Rowe to adopt the FY 2023 LCDBG Program Procurement Policy Resolution. Motion carried.
PROCUREMENT POLICY RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, the Jackson Parish Police Jury has been afforded the opportunity to apply and participate in the State of Louisiana 2023 Community Development Block Grant Program administered by the Division of Administration; and,
WHEREAS, the STATE requires the establishment of uniform procedures in compliance with OMB Circular A-102;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the Jackson Parish Police Jury, that the attached policy entitled “Procurement Procedures Relative to the LCDBG Program” is hereby adopted.
Passed, approved and adopted this __15th _ day of _November___, 2022.
Motion by Ms. Magee, second by Ms. Rowe to adopt the FY 2023 LCDBG Program Citizen Participation Plan. Motion carried.
Motion by Ms. Magee, second by Ms. Rowe to adopt the FY 2023 LCDBG Program Citizen Participation Plan Resolution. Motion carried.
CITIZEN PARTICIPATION PLAN RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, the Jackson Parish Police Jury has been afforded the opportunity to apply and participate in the State of Louisiana 2023 Community Development Block Grant Program administered by the Division of Administration; and,
WHEREAS, the STATE requires Grantees to establish procedures to ensure adequate citizen participation with the program;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the Jackson Parish Police Jury , that the attached policy entitled “Citizen Participation Plan”, dated _November 15_, 2022 is hereby adopted.
Passed, approved and adopted by the Jackson Parish Police Jury, Parish of Jackson , State of Louisiana, on the __15th
__ day of __November__, 2022.
Mr. Emory Belton, Jr. of the Belton Law Firm gave a presentation of the Southern Spirit Electric Transmission Project.
Motion by Mr. Culpepper, second by Mr. Chatham to approve the 2023 Library Budget. Motion carried.
Motion by Mr. Chatham, second by Mr. Culpepper to approve the 2023 Recreation District Budget. Motion carried.
The Jury reviewed Parish Boards and Commissions Appointments.
Motion by Ms. Magee, second by Mr. Culpepper to re-appoint the following board members:
• Re-appoint Mr. James Fitzpatrick to the Museum Board for a 3-year term ending 12/31/2025.
• Re-appoint Mr. Allen Lindsay to the Ambulance Board for a 6-year term ending 12/31/2028.
• Re-appoint Ms. Barbara Johnson to the Museum Board for a 3-year term ending 12/31/2025.
• Re-appoint Mr. Gary Joynor to the Watershed Board for a 4-year term ending 12/31/2026.
• Re-appoint Ms. Wendy Hall to the Jonesboro Fire Board for a 2-year term ending 12/31/2024.
• Re-appoint Ms. Tammy Gunter to the Tourism Board for a 3-year term ending 12/31/2025.
The President opened the floor for announcements and notifications.
The President made the following announcements:
• The proposed 2023 Consolidated Budget of the Jackson Parish Police Jury is available for public inspection during regular business hours at the Police Jury Administrative Building, 160 Industrial Drive, Jonesboro, LA 71251. The proposed budget is scheduled for a Public Hearing and final adoption at the Regular Police Jury Meeting on December 20, 2022, at 5:15 PM at the Dr. Charles H. Garrett Community Center, Jonesboro, LA.
• A 2023 liquor application has been processed for Class A Retail Beer and Retail Liquor to The Lazy Gator.
• Notice is hereby given that at its meeting to be held on Tuesday, December 20, 2022, 5:30 p.m. at its regular meeting place, the Dr. Charles H. Garrett Community Center, 182 Industrial Drive, Jonesboro, Louisiana, the Police Jury of the Parish of Jackson, State of Louisiana, plans to consider adopting a resolution ordering and calling an election to be held in the Parish of Jackson, State of Louisiana to authorize the continuation of an ad valorem tax therein.
The President opened the floor for Juror comments.
Motion by Ms. Rowe, second by Mr. Culpepper to adjourn. Motion carried.

 

 

 

 

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Newton Lavelle Coleman
Augurst 9, 1943 – December 7, 2022

Newton Lavelle Coleman passed away on Wednesday, December 7, 2022 at Winnfield Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. He was 79. In Newton’s younger years he enjoyed riding his Harley motorcycle and playing dominos with friends. He loved to minister the Lord’s word where he could. He was an ordained minister and he began ministering at first through his involvement and membership in the Christian Motorcycle Association. Following this Newton became involved in sharing God’s word through prison ministry. He cherished the time he spent with his family and grandchildren and he loved the holidays.

Newton is survived by his wife, Doris (Blair) Coleman; children, Tony Coleman and Edee, Celena Ganey, Ace Fanene; grandchildren, Eric Coleman, Jacob Coleman, Justin Coleman, Mersadies (Ganey) Layfield and Hunter, and Braxten Ganey; siblings, Beth Denton and Anthony; Beverly Brown, Michael Coleman.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Newton Loranza and Rachael (Harville) Coleman; and brother, Sammy Coleman.

Friends may visit with the family on Monday, December 12, 2022 at North Hodge Assembly of God from 10 am until 12 noon. The funeral service will be officiated by Bro. Geary Phillips and Bro. Lance Huckaby. It will begin at 1:30 pm. Burial will follow at Antioch Cumberland Presbyterian Cemetery near Quitman, under the direction of Southern-Edmonds Funeral Home.

Serving the family as pallbearers will be Jacob Coleman, Braxton Ganey, Lane Tippin, John Odenbaugh, Jerry Nesbit, Larry Carr, Sammy Denton.

Shirley Ann Crain Burroughs
July 10, 1945 – November 28, 2022

Shirley Ann Crain Burroughs was born to William Crain and Beneva Lewis Crain on July 10, 1945, in Hodge, LA. She joined Galilee Baptist Church at an early age where she served the Lord faithfully.
Shirley graduated from Jackson High School in 1962 and shortly after, she continued her educational ambitions by attending Robinson Business College in Monroe, LA where she graduated with honors. Shirley then found a new employment opportunity at Alabama State University as the secretary of the history department for 8 years.
Shirley was preceded in death by her parents William Crain and Beneva Lewis Crain, brothers Robert Earl Suluki, William P. Crain, Joe Everett Crain, sisters Francine Crain and Lynette Pollock.
Shirley leaves to cherish her memory to her husband, Willie Roy Burroughs, daughter Tameka D’Shawn Burroughs, and son Willie Rashard Burroughs (Tancey), 3 grandchildren Daja Monet Luellen, Joshua Rashard Burroughs, Braylen Rashard Burroughs and a host of cousins, nephews, nieces, relatives, and friends.

Funeral Services were held on December 10th at the Galilee Baptist Church in Hodge under the direction of Paradise Funeral Home in Jonesboro. 

Brandon “BJ” Carter
February 1, 1973 – December 4, 2022

Funeral services celebrating the life of Brandon “BJ” Carter of El Dorado, AR., age 49,  was held on Thursday, December 8, 2022, at First Baptist Church in Ruston with Rev. Chris Craig and Bro. Jason Womack officiating. Interment followed at Fellowship Cemetery, Columbia, LA., under the direction of Griffin Funeral Home in West Monroe, LA. 
BJ was a loving son, father, brother, and friend. He loved music and theater; he enjoyed his work and spending time with his coworkers. He looked forward to his annual trip back to Denver where he would spend time with his friends and see his favorite band “Phish” in concert at Red Rocks.
He is preceded in death by his father, Glen Edward Carter; brother, Timothy Earl Carter; grandparents, JQ & Dettie Whitlock and Virgil and Nelda Carter.
Survivors include his children, Kaci Wyman, Lucy Carter, Sadie Carter, Penny Carter, Della Carter-Ligon; brother, Eric Carter (Janet), and mother, Kitty Carter; Also survived by a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Pallbearers were Johnny Griffith, Tracy Orr, Stacy Orr, Armer King, Chad Caskey, and Jay Caskey.

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Quitman High School has been recognized by the Louisiana Department of Education (LDE) as the only high school in northeast Louisiana to receive the designation of a “Comeback Campus.” In all, 41 schools from 21 parishes, earned the prestigious honor.

According to the December 5th release by the LDE, Louisiana Comeback Campuses are schools that are currently performing higher in reading and math than before the pandemic. These schools have shown significant growth despite facing obstacles from the pandemic and two historically active hurricanes over the past two years.

Compared to the 2019 statewide assessments, Louisiana Comeback schools show an increase in the percentage of students scoring Mastery and above and a decrease in the rate of students scoring unsatisfactory in both Math and ELA in 2022. According to the release, high school Comeback Campuses also increased their ACT score.

‘I couldn’t be more proud of the Quitman students,staff, parents and community,” said QHS Principal Billy Carter. “During Covid our school was faced with many challenges but our QHS family took every challenge in stride making adjustments and overcoming each obstacle thrown our way. Our focus was teaching children and that is what we did to the best of our ability. This prestigious honor is a testament to all the hard work that was poured into our school. I am so thankful to be a part of Quitman High School.”

Superintendent Dr. Cade Brumley will visit every Comeback Campus over the next few months to personally congratulate educators and students and conduct a learning walk. The learning walk is for the LDOE leaders to get insight into the approaches used to lead student growth in the Comeback schools, with hopes of using these efforts across the Louisiana School System.

Louisiana Comeback is a campaign that aims to restore and accelerate learning lost from the school disruptions of the pandemic and hurricanes. Benefits of Being a Comeback Campus include:
Access to additional funds
Participate in best practices research
Round table discussions
Lead state/national educator sessions
Recognition ceremony with banner
Recognition on LA School Finder

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 Weston High School has announced the selection of 2022-23 Student of the Year for the senior high, junior high, and elementary divisions. Selected as the senior high representative is Dillon Pardue, with  Ty Henderson being named in the junior high division and Rachel Bandy being chosen as the elementary honoree.

Dillon Pardue – Weston High School 12th grade Student of the Year.

Dillon, shown in the banner above, is the seventeen-year-old son of David and Cindy Pardue of Weston. He is a senior at Weston High School and maintains a 4.0 GPA. He will represent the Senior Class on the Homecoming on Friday. He runs cross country and track at WHS. He recently ran in the state meet and was awarded the LHSAA Academic All-State Award in cross country for maintaining a 4.0 or higher GPA during high school while participating in varsity athletics. He is also in Gifted and Talented Art and Music and enjoys drawing, painting, and singing.

Dillon attends Hodge United Pentecostal Church where he is active in the adult and youth choir. He also assists in teaching the students with special needs in Sunday school and is a Kid’s Praise Leader, which is the children’s group at church. In the Louisiana District UPC, Dillon serves in the capacity of an All-State Choir member and he also participates in multiple youth summer camps both as a camper and as a leader.

He enjoys serving on the Student Action Leadership Team, and for three years been a part of the summer drama at “Kid’s Kamp” at the UPC Campgrounds in Tioga. He has worked in the drama as a backstage and prop assistant, as well as an actor and singer. Dillon also is a group leader at KidZone, a three-day, children’s church camp. He also works part-time at the Weston Wolf Stop. During his free time, Dillon likes to write. One of his dreams includes becoming a published author.

Plans after high school include participating in our church camps, leading youth groups, singing, and ministering through drama this summer again in Tioga. Then he plans to attend the University of Louisiana at Monroe where he will pursue a degree in pharmacy.

Ty Henderson- Weston High School 8th grade Student of the Year

Ty is the 8th-grade son of Josh and Melinda Henderson. Ty maintains a 4.0 GPA and is an exceptional student. He is a member of the junior high baseball and basketball teams for Weston. He also competes in junior varsity basketball and varsity baseball for the Wolves. Ty is the Jr. Beta President and an active member of Ebenezer Baptist Church, where he looks forward to the monthly volleyball competitions. Recently, Ty attended YEC with the youth group and also helped in the outreach program, Operation Christmas Child. In his spare time, Ty enjoys spending time with his family, watching sports, and hanging out with his friends.

Rachel Bandy-Weston High School 5th grade Student of the Year

Rachel is the 5th-grade daughter of Michelle Walker and William Bandy. Rachel has maintained a 4.0 GPA throughout all grades in school. Rachel is currently a member of the Louisiana Gunsmoke 11U travel team where she plays centerfield and pitches. She received game MVP 2 times throughout the season which allowed her to participate in the Louisiana All-State showcase tournament in Alexandria. Rachel also participates in the Jackson Parish recreation softball league where she has made the All-Star team for the past 3 years. She was named player of the game in the All-Star tournament this past summer in Broussard, LA. Rachel is a member of 4-H where she participated in the 4-H cooking class and the 4-H Holiday cooking contest and won 3 rd place in the pie division. Rachel is an active member of Ebenezer Baptist Church with whom she attended her first church camp at Seeker Springs this past summer. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, doing crafts, reading, and swimming.

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Attention Jackson Parish residents, please see below regarding internet availability at your home address and/or business. The Federal Communications Broadband Service has mapped the United States to determine if the internet is available in all areas, and also to see what the internet speeds are. Please follow the instructions below at your earliest convenience. This will help to ensure the FCC has accurate information.

“We need your help to challenge the new Federal Communications Commission broadband service location and availability maps. This is critically important as we eliminate the digital divide as quickly as possible! We need to submit challenges by the 1st week of January of 2023.”

The FCC recently published new #broadband maps to help determine how much federal funding states will receive to shore up gaps in internet service. As part of the mapping process, states, residents, cities, counties, businesses, etc. have the ability to challenge the accuracy of these maps.

The map shares where how internet coverage areas exist, the technology internet is delivered with (fiber/wireless/satellite/etc.), and where service gaps are perceived. However, metrics used are showing areas covered that might not be.

IMPORTANT: This map from the FCC will determine how much funding Louisiana receives. We can challenge/change this map, but it will take a strategic concerted effort across the state and through our networks. Our ask to you is that you share this information with your constituents, coworkers, neighbors, and friends and encourage them to go to the website to check to see what buildings are shown as covered. We need them to share their stories, challenge areas “served” that are not, and make sure their voices are heard.

PLEASE FOLLOW THE INSTRUCTIONS BELOW

Link to FCC challenge video: https://lnkd.in/g2Zz2SUD
1. Point your browser to: https://lnkd.in/gdecdqYb
2. LOCALITY: Type in the address and select from the auto-generated location options.
3. When the map renders, verify that the locator dot is centered on the correct rooftop.
4. If not, click on the “Location Challenge” link in the upper right corner of the map and type in the contact information, and select the appropriate Challenge Type and any documentation if available.
5. Click Submit.
6. SERVICE AVAILABILITY: Check the Provider, Technology, and Speeds available at this address.
7. If any information is incorrect, click on “Availability Challenge” and select any of the providers that are incorrect.
8. Enter Challenge or Feedback, the contact information, and you may either describe your experience or upload a documentation image or file.
9. Click Submit.

To learn more click here

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On Saturday.,December 10th, Jackson Parish residents will have the opportunity to decide whether or not they want to approve three proposed constitutional amendments. Polls will open at 7:00am and close at 8:00pm.

Below is a synopsis of what each amemdment is about. 

Proposed Amendment No. 1
Act 279 of the 2022 Regular Session of the Louisiana Legislature proposing to amend Article I, Section 10 of the Louisiana Constitution.
“Do you support an amendment to provide that no person who is not a citizen of the United States shall be allowed to register and vote in this state?”

Proposed Amendment No. 2
Act 281 of the 2022 Regular Session of the Louisiana Legislature proposing to amend Article X, Section 3(B)(1) and (C) of the Louisiana Constitution.
“Do you support an amendment to make appointed members of the State Civil Service Commission subject to confirmation by the Louisiana Senate?”

Proposed Amendment No. 3
Act 280 of the 2022 Regular Session of the Louisiana Legislature proposing to amend Article X, Section 43(C) of the Louisiana Constitution.
“Do you support an amendment to make appointed members of the State Police Commission subject to confirmation by the Louisiana Senate?”

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Prep basketball action over the next several days will see local girls and boys varsity basketball teams playing in tournaments for the second straight weekend except for Weston High who will host Claiborne Christian on Thursday.

Jonesboro-Hodge ranked #1 among ”non-select” Division IV schools as of December 5th rankings shown in Geaux Preps, will compete in the West Ouachita High School Tournament that will take place December 8-10 while Quitman, #23 in Divison V and neighboring Saline, #28, will take part in the Cedar Creek Tourney that will be held on the same dates in Ruston. Thie Lady Wolverines play Haynesvill at 5:15pm on Thursday while the boys face Calvin at the same time on Friday. Weston is the only school that will have a home game for the remainder of the week as they host Claiborne Christian on Thursday. The action begins with a junior varsity girls’ game at 5:00pm, followed by junior varsity boys, varsity girls, and varsity boys’ games.

Team Records and state rankings (as of December 4th)

SCHOOL	BOYS RECORD	RANKING	GIRLS RECORD	RANKING
Jonesboro-Hodge	2-0	#1 – Divison IV	0-5	#39 – Division IV
Quitman	7-4	#23 – Divison V	8-3	#12 – Division V
Weston	3-8	#39 – Division V	12-2	#19 – Division V

Boys Individual Statistical Leaders (as of December 4th)

SCHOOL	PPG	RPG	APG	SPG	BPG	3-Pointers
JHHS	Ajay Tew – 17.0	Savantev Phillips – 8.0	Ajay Tew – 4.5	Jarrius Lumpkin – 3.0	Savantev Phillips – 2.0	Ajay Tew – 8
Quitman	Logan Ponder – 12.1	Blake Carter – 9.4	Blake Carter – 2.0	Logan Ponder – 1.8	Blake Carter 2.2	Eli Walker – 10
Weston	Mitchel Mathews – 12.88	n/a	n/a	n/a	n/a	n/a

Girls Individual Statistical Leaders (as of December 4th)

SCHOOL	PPG	RPG	APG	SPG	BPG	3-Pointers
JHHS	Morgan McGee – 7.0	Hoggro/Davis – 5.0	A’Joriana Hoggro – 2.0	3 tied with 1.3	Tyya Davis – 1.0	4 tied with 1
Quitman	Cali Deal – 13.7	Cali Deal – 6.7	Bethany Leach – 3.2	Bethany Leach – 2.9	Cali Deal – 0.7	Brayli Stewart – 20
Weston	Emma Kate McBride – 15.6	Briley Peterson – 9.0	Emma Kate McBride – 3.5	Briley Peterson – 2.9	Lainee Trosclair – 0.4	Emma Kate McBride – 30

After missing several games this past week Tait Henderson returned to the lineup. To say he was a sight for sore eyes is an understatement! The result was a 22-point effort that helped lift Weston to an impressive 79-75 victory over Class 5A West Ouachita that put to end a three-game skid. With the victory, WHS improved to 4-9 on the season while West Ouachita fell to 2-6 on the year. 

It was an especially sweet victory for WHS head coach Jacob Otwell, who saw his squad fall behind 25-16 after one period only to dig deep and rally for a season-best 50 second-half points and their best scoring effort of the year. Mitchel Mathews and Bryce Zehr also came up big for the Wolves with 22 and 18 points respectively, including combining for 12 of 15 crucial free throws down the stretch. Braden Theriot added 8 and Ja’Michael Fourd chipped in with 7. Jude Otwell scored two to round out the scoring. 

Weston 75 West Ouachita 47 (Girls): According to WHS head coach Stacy Tucker, the Lady Wolves played their worst game of the year in the 55-51 Monday loss to Summerfield. Just one night later Weston played their best to win their local area-leading 13th victory against only 3 losses. 

“We played our most complete game of the year tonight,” beamed Tucker. “I was really proud of the way the girls bounced back.” 

Anslee Aldy drained a pair of three pointers in the first quarter, Lexie Millien hit two mortriple-doublethe second and Emma Kate McBride did the “triple double dip” in the third period as WHS raced out to a 64-36 lead heading into the fourth frame. McBride led Weston with 23 points followed closely by Briley Peterson, who parlayed a 7 of 8 showing from the line for 22 points. Mill, had 13, Aldy 8, Jessica Newton 4, Laine Trosclair 3 and Jacie Ledfort two to round out the scoring. 

Quitman 44 Calvin 29 (boys):  December is known as the month for giving. Don’t tell that to the Wolverines boys basketball team, who have been as stingy with points as the Grinch is with toys. For the third straight game in December the Wolverines held an opponent to under 35 points and  a second straight giving up less than 30. Offensively, Eli Walker made 7 of 12 shots including 3 of 7 from behind the arc to pace the Wolverines with 18 points in the low-scoring affair. Logan Pteam-highed 10 and Blake Carter 7 to go alonthree-pointeram high 11 rebounds. Gavyn Caskey added a three pointer and both Brayden Smith and Noah Leach scored two. The fourth straight victory for Mike Black’s squad improves QHS to 8-4 on the year while Calvin fell to 9-4 , with their third straight loss.

Quitman 48 Calvin 25 (girls): It wouldn’t have been surprising to hear QHS head coach Kyle Leach humming the 2018 LL Cool J smash hit – Going back to Cali! Who could blame him after the Sophomore sensation had her way with Calvin to the tune of 16 points and 12 rebounds, while also dropping five dimes and making five steals? Brayli Stewart and Bethany Leach chipped in with 10 points each, while Emma Carter and AJ Gray added four each. Anna Leach and Summer GrilletteWolverines’ed two apiece. The victory improved the Lady Wolverines record to 9-3 on the year while Calvin dropped their fifth straight to fall to 4-8.

JHHS goes cold at Caldwell! 

Jonesboro-Hodge did a pretty good job of holding down Caldwell High School to just 66 points on their home floor in both the girls and boys contests against Jonesboro-Hodge. The problem was that the JH girls had 36 turnovers and managed only 24 points in th.girls game and the boys scored a season low 37 points.. The loss was the sixth straight for the Lady Tigers while the boys, who entered the game ranked #1 among “non-selct” schools in Divison IV, dropped their first of the year in three tries. Kaelin Palmer and Morgan McGee scored six each to lead the girls scoring effort followed closely behind by McKenzie Bradford who had five. Nthe o individual statistics were available for the boys at time of press. 

Saline boys win second straight!

After falling to Arcadia in a close game at the Bienville Parish Tournament at the first of the month, Steam’s head coach Klint Robinson had a feeling that his teams fortunes were going to take a turn for the better. He was right! With their 56-28 victory over Ouachita Christian on Monday and a 44-41 victory over Castor on Tuesday, the Bobcats have won more games in two days than they had all season long prior. Wesley Crwaford paved the way against Castor with 15 points bouyed by three 3-pointers while Maddox Williams added a season best eight. Will Dyson added 7, D.J. Rager-Ridley scored 6 and Eli Ferguson finished .th foback-to-backaggs and Gaven Dailey added two each.. The back-to-back wins lifted Saline’s record to 3-9 on the year while Castor fell to 4-6. 

 

 

 

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