On February 25, 2023 the J-HHS Class of 1973 celebrated their 50th class reunion at the Jimmie Davis State Park. Many stories were shared and a good time was had by all.
In recognition of the 24 classmates that have passed away there was a memorial service held. Also being honored were members of the class that served in the United States Armed Forces and were First Responders.
Shown in the banner above are:
Back Row: Danny Peel, Tommy Freeman, Rodger Bedgood, Arthur North, Donn Ray Hall, Chuck Allen, Jim Talley, Joel Burnum, Randy Lafield, Stanley Freeman
Middle Row: Carl Petersen, Alton Smith, Kenneth Folden, Lynn Otwell, Larry Horsely, Ronald Raborn, Carol Holmes, JoAnn Gary Kennedy, Terrie Sneed Williams, Dorethea Nolley Yates
For the three Jackson Parish High School baseball teams this past weekend was a tough one as the three local schools went a combined 1-6 in games played. Quitman High, now with a 4-9 record, experienced the lone victory with a 4-3 win over Division III Many High in their second game of three games played in the Northwood Tournament. The Wolverines won it by scoring 3 runs in the bottom of the sixth to tie the game and adding a run in the bottom of the 7th to win it. In the first game, the Wolverines fell 7-0 to Class 5A Haughton and dropped an 11-1 contest to host Northwood in the tourney final.
Weston, now 7-10 on the year, lost all three played in the Live Oak tournament played in Denham Springs against some of the better baseball teams in south Louisiana. The stiff tournament schedule started with the Wolves falling 13-3 to host Live Oak, which is 16-3 on the year and ranked #6 in Division I. Their next contest, a 10-0 defeat, came at the hands of 12-5 Central – Baton Rouge, ranked #16 in Division I leading to a final game loss to Teurlings Catholic (11-6), who was the top-ranked team in Division II among “select” schools entering the tournament but now sits 3rd after losses to both Live Oak and Central-BR.
Jonesboro-Hodge almost pulled off a victory in the only game they played this weekend by rallying from a 7-3 deficit to Dodson to score 5 runs in the last two innings but fell in Dodson’s last at bat by a 9-8 score. With the loss, the Tigers fell to 2-6 while Dodson improved to 3-4 on the year.
In recognition of his service to the United State Armed Forces the Jonesboro Heritage Quilting Guild designed and presented Veteran Don Travis with a beautiful quilt this past week. Travis, who is a resident of Forest Haven Nursing Home and Rehabilitation Center in Jonesboro, served in the United States Navy from 1967- 197 where he worked on electronics on the flight line of the USS Franklin D. Roosevelt.
If you would like to participate, the Jonesboro Heritage Quilting Guild meets at 9:30 am on the first Wednesday of each month at the Jonesboro-Hodge United Methodist Church, located at402 4th Street in Jonesboro.
Deer season 2022-23 is in the history books and here’s hoping that you have something to hang on the wall to show for your efforts. Don’t have anything?
Maybe you’ve been doing it all wrong.
Daniel Colvin has access to 1300 acres of family property in Union Parish, land not really known for being able to produce trophy bucks. Even so, he has mounts of 18 bucks hanging on his wall scoring between 150 and 170 inches, bucks he has taken from his Union Parish property.
Is he the luckiest deer hunter around or is he on to something that allows the growth of bucks that size on property not known for the production of trophy bucks?
“I’m serious about getting the best from the deer in my area,” said Colvin. “I work at it all year long and there are several things I have discovered that have helped me and will help anyone who is interested in growing bigger deer no matter what kind of property they hunt.”
Colvin is offering what he has learned to any property owner serious about improving the lot of deer they hunt.
“I’ll contract with property owners to assess their land, see what I think is not helping and offer assistance in getting the right things done. If anyone is serious about wanting to grow bigger deer, the most important thing right off the bat is to control the trigger finger. You shoot a 120 inch buck and he’s never going to make it to 140,” Colvin said.
Controlling what grows on the land as well as supplementing food sources to give deer the best and most nutritional foods is important, he said. Control burning and timber thinning is an easy tool to trigger growing of forage plants that deer prefer. In addition, the use of minerals is of utmost importance, he noted. The principle need for foraging animals is salt because as soon as a deer gets a belly full of browse materials, he’ll head for a salt lick which aids in water retention.
“Minerals such as salt supplemented with calcium phosphorus is important because during the growing season, minerals are pulled from the bone structure to grow antlers and minerals provide those that are depleted,” said Colvin.
The establishing of food plots is another matter that is often not done in the best possible method as a property owner is more likely to take advantage of a logging set to plant a food plot.
“If you plant it and fertilize a small area such as this, deer will eat it up in a month. My food plots are usually three to five acres each and it will draw the deer that are in the area. I’ll often see 25-30 deer a day on my plots. These will draw in the does and when you attract them, especially during the rut, the bucks will follow ,” he said.
Colvin keeps records of the deer on his property and he feels this is very important so that he can know what is there. The use of remote cameras is another tool he feels is quite valuable in keeping up with individual deer and seeing what they’re doing from one year to the next.
“I try to get my deer to imprint on a particular spot and my food plots help me accomplish that and cameras help validate it. Several of the deer I have hanging on my wall I have kept up with them for several years from what I see on cameras as well as shed antlers I find,” he said.
Anyone interested in visiting further with Colvin to contract with him on their personal hunting woods can contact him by telephone at 501/554-2824 or searching for him on Facebook.
“Daniel Colvin with one of the 18 bucks he has hanging on his wall, deer he has taken from his Union Parish property.” Courtesy photo
FISHING REPORT
CANEY LAKE – Sight fishing for bedded bass has been fairly successful with soft plastics, topwater crankbaits, spinners, and jerk baits working best. Crappie are still in fairly deep water around brush and hitting shiners or jigs. No report on bream or catfish. For information contact Caney Lake Landing at 259-6649, Hooks Marina at 249-2347, Terzia Tackle at 278-4498, or the Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707. BLACK BAYOU – Crappie have moved up around the trees and fishing is good on shiners or jigs. Bass is improved with slow-rolling spinner baits working around the trees. No report bream. Contact Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707 for the latest information. BUSSEY BRAKE – Big bass are continuing to be caught flipping creature baits around the trees. Crappie are scattered around the brush and fair. For the latest information, contact the Honey Hole at 323-8707. OUACHITA RIVER – The water is still high, except for catfishermen, few anglers have been going out. For the latest information, contact the Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707. LAKE D’ARBONNE – Some crappie have moved up and are being caught in 2-3 foot water while others are still hanging back in 8-10 foot water. Bass fishing has been good with spinners, crankbaits, and Carolina rigs in the shallows with mostly buck bass (males) being caught now as the big females have yet to move in. Bream are not yet ready but lots of catfish were caught fishing cold worms and night crawlers off the banks. For the latest information, call Anderson Sport Center at 368-9669 or Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707. LAKE CLAIBORNE – Bass are starting to move to the beds with Sinko’s landing some nice fish. Crappie are still best fishing around brush with jigs and shiners picking up some fish. Stripers are beginning to show up and hitting shad imitations. No report on bream or catfish. For the latest information, call Kel’s Cove at 927-2264 or Terzia Tackle at 278-4498. LAKE POVERTY POINT – Catfishing is good. Crappie have backed off the banks with cooler weather moving them back. Bass to around 8 pounds has been reported. No report on bream. For the latest reports, call Poverty Point Marina at 318/878-0101. LAKE YUCATAN – The water is high and over the road for the next 2-3 weeks. No fishermen this week. For information, call Surplus City Landing at 318/467-2259.
Looking to spend the day at a place the whole family can enjoy. Then come to the Jackson Parish Recreation Department Sports Complex, located on Hwy. 4 East between Weston and Jonesboro where there is something for everyone.
A wide range of activities is available for all ages including a playground full of fun equipment for the kids, playing disc golf, shooting hoops on the basketball courts, playing softball and/or baseball and taking cuts in the hitting cages.
If you are more adventurous then bring your bicycles and skateboards or check out the 1/4 mile walking trail. You can even shoot on the archery range that is located east of the ball fields.
After you have had your fun take a break or enjoy a picnic at one of the several covered pavilions on site.
Thanks to the Jackson Parish Council on Aging (JPCOA), patrons of the Jackson Parish Senior Citizen Center and the Chatham Senior’s Mealsite daily programs enjoyed the opportunity to enjoy fellowship and rekindle old relationships this past Wednesday, March 15th.
Katie Soal of the Cenla Aging Council was the special guest at the Robert Riddle Senior Citizen Center located at 120 Polk Avenue in Jonesboro where she gave information about the planning process the JPCOA has in place for 2023-27.
The JPCOA and the Chatham Senior Mealsite Program services low income parish residents and senior citizens with daily meals, meal delivery, medication assistance and transportation as well as educational information and outreach programs available.
After a full week of tryouts the Varsity Cheerleading Squad at Quitman High School has been selected for the 2023-24 school year. The fifteen young ladies that will represent QHS is shown below. Congratulations to each!
The Jackson Parish Watershed District (JPWD) held its monthly meeting of Commissioners this past Thursday in the Sunshine Room of the Jackson Parish Police Jury Administration Building in Jonesboro.
Board members Kent Hightower (President), Gary Joynor (Vice President), Jimmy Waggoner (Secretary), Wesley Harvey, Jerry Chestnut, Roy Barlow, and Daniel Ponder discussed the following agenda items:
(1) Caney Lake old buoy removal update. (2) Jackson Parish Police Jury adding the JPWD to building permit checklist meeting and update. (3) Ebenezer pier update. (4) Building and setting four frames for Major League Fishing welcome signs (5) Timeline for striping the spillway parking lot (6) Major League Fishing Tournament on Caney Lake update. (7) Approval of Financial Statement and Pay Bills for February 2023. (8) Dollar amount to donate for door prizes for the MLF tournament from the watershed general fund. (9) Daily and Annual Launch fees (10) Approval of building permits for Dr. Roy Kennison, DKA Construction, Amy Moore, and Brian Stevenson (11) Annual Ethics Training for board members. (12) Annual Financial Disclosure Statements.
I give up; how DO crafters get those miniature ships inside bottles?
Maybe the answer is like a corny elephant joke.
How do they get ships inside bottles?
Answer: Very carefully!
There’s another interesting scenario. People have been known to leave messages inside small bottles and cast them into the sea. Many are discovered far, far away.
It seems that mankind has stored a variety of things in bottles of different sizes, shapes and colors. Jim Croce sang of putting ‘Time in a Bottle.’
Maybe you have a hobby of collecting bottles.
If so, I don’t believe you’ve found any with tears stored inside.
Speaking of tears… In disgust, some have spoken the cliché, ‘I’m not going to waste any tears on him (or her).’
If you’re God’s child, no tears are wasted.
“You number my wanderings; Put my tears into Your bottle; Are they not in Your book (Psalm 56:8 NKJV)?”
We move from tears in a bottle to tears on Jesus’ feet.
Jesus said, “Do you see this woman? I entered your house; you gave Me no water for My feet, but she has washed My feet with her tears and wiped them with the hair of her head (Luke 7:44 NKJV).”
The woman wiped away dust from Jesus’ feet with her tears.
God will wipe away tears of sadness from our eyes.
“And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes (Revelation 7:17b NKJV).”
Senior citizens aged 60 and above are invited to the The Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church, located at 1712 Church Street in East Hodge for the “We Are To Blessed To Be Stressed” Movie Night that will be held at 2:00pm on Tuesday, March 21st. Snacks will be provided and no prior registration is required.
The Jackson Parish Police Jury Finance Committee will meet at 5:30 pm on Monday, March 20th at the Charles H Garrett Community Center, located at 182 Industrial Drive in Jonesboro.
Items on the Agenda that Chairman Todd Culpepper and committee members Amy Magee and John McCarty will be discussing include:
1. Health insurance increase and/or salary increases. 2. The Road Superintendent package. 3. Solid Waste Fund financials. 4. Recreation Board letter. 5. Funding source for DOTD Grant for the Town of Jonesboro.
It is possible that a quorum of the Police Jury may be in attendance at the meeting, but no action of the Police Jury as a whole will be taken.
In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance, please contact Emmett Gibbs, Secretary/Treasurer at (318)259-2361 Ext. 3 describing the assistance that is necessary.
Let’s Get Vaccinated! To help make that possible the Region 8 of the Louisiana Department of Health has scheduled free Covid-19, Flu, and Monkeypox vaccinations in Jackson Parish this week. The Jackson Parish Health Unit, located at 228 Bond St. in Jonesboro, will be giving vaccinations Monday – Friday (March 20-24) during times of 8am-4:30pm. Appointments are suggested, but not necessary. To schedule an appointment call (318) 259 – 6601.
Vaccinations will also be available from 12:00 – 5:00pm on Saturday, March 25th as part of the Spring Into Health Block Party that will take place in downtown Jonesboro.
To have published your Business Services, Job Opportunities, Items for sale, Advertisements for Bids, Requests for Proposals, Requests for Quotes, Public Notices, and Legal Notices – send an email to: jpjjacksonla@gmail.com. Possible costs are dependent on content.
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!
HELP WANTED
Jackson Parish Ambulance Service District – Full time Paramedic Supervisor, Paramedic and EMT positions available. For more information call JPASD Director Aaron Johnson at 318-259-2877. Resumes can be emailed to: jacksonparishambulance@jpasd.com or sent by regular mail to: JPASD, attn: Aaron Johnson, 115 Watts St., Jonesboro, LA 71251
Jackson Parish Police Jury – Openings for an Operator 1 position at the Solid Waste Department and a Mechanic 1 position at the Road Department. Applications can be found on the Jackson Parish Police Jury Website, or by visiting the Administration Department at 160 Industrial Drive, Jonesboro, LA 71251. Applications will be accepted through March 24, 2023. (For description of jobs see below in Public Notices)
Globe Life Insurance – Sales position available for motivated self starter to represent the Family Heritage Division that offers supplemental Life, Cancer, Heart, Stroke, ICU and Accident policies. To learn more contact Regional Director, Jamie Antley, at 318-488-1218 or send email to jamiefamheritage@gmail.com
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 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.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
REQUEST FOR BIDS: The Jackson Parish Recreation District is looking for a vendor to run the concession stand for the upcoming baseball season. If you want to submit a proposal or have questions, contact Tommy Smith at 318-737-8493.
Veteran’s Affairs Office Open: The Veteran’s Affairs Office, located at 322 6th Street in Jonesboro, is open on Tuesday and Wednesday each week from 9:30a.m. – 3:00p.m. Representative, Mr. Gary Poole, can be reached at 318-259-2100 or by email at gary.poole@la.gov
PUBLIC / LEGAL NOTICES
The Jackson Parish Police Jury is hiring for the following open position
Please submit all applications to Jackson Parish Police Jury Administrative Building, 160 Industrial Drive, Jonesboro, LA 71251. To request a detailed job description, please contact our office at (318) 259-2361 or by email: egibbs@jppj.org.
POSITION: Mechanic I DEPARTMENT: Jackson Parish Road Department
Description: Under close supervision, the Road Department Mechanic I is a skilled position responsible for performing minor and major repairs on automobiles, trucks, heavy trucks, tractors, heavy equipment, and related departmental equipment. Assignments are made orally or in the form of written work orders.
Minimum Qualifications: • Must be 18 years of age. • High school diploma, or equivalent, required. • Class A Commercial Driver’s License preferred. • ASE certified or two (2) years experience at the journey level, working with diesel engines, heavy trucks, and equipment, or three (3) years experience as an auto mechanic. • Must be able to lift up to 100 pounds frequently. • Ability to work safely in all weather conditions, including adverse conditions. • Can understand and follow oral and written instructions. • Able to work in elevated areas, confined spaces, and on and off ladders. • Must be able to sit and stand for extended periods of time.
Basic Responsibilities: • The Mechanic is responsible for performing all types of routine maintenance and service duties on equipment, including repair work on engines, transmissions, differentials, electrical systems, front ends, and minor tune-ups. Arc welding, Mig Welding, and Acetylene Cutting with torch and plasma cutting. • Road tests vehicles and confirms complaints, checks malfunctions, and determines necessary repair needs using experience and the use of various testing equipment and tools. • Changes oil and oil filters, air filters, hydraulic filters, etc. on gas and diesel equipment. • Greases truck chassis, wheel bearings, and end equipment moving parts. • Performs repair work on small gasoline engines. Able to operate a chainsaw and weed eater. • Repairs and adjusts brakes and clutches; replace brake linings and cylinders. • Performs hydraulic systems repairs on trucks and equipment. • Repairs flat tires and performs all related tasks incumbent to this endeavor. • Uses manual and power equipment for breaking down and balancing of tires. • Operates service/lube truck and performs maintenance duties on equipment. • Performs routine maintenance work of vehicle air conditioning systems. • Inspects and repairs suspension systems on automobiles and trucks. • Tracks all warranty work available for equipment. • Maintains all shop records, work orders, purchase orders, shop inventory, and shop work scheduling. • Performs proper pre-start and daily maintenance and service of equipment including lubrication, changing tires, making minor adjustments and repairs, and cleaning. • Requires a thorough knowledge of general maintenance requirements of various pieces of light to heavy motorized equipment. • Services, changes tires and cutting blades, cleans machines including trucks, and makes minor adjustments. • Recognizes and diagnoses equipment malfunctions or complicated services needs and reports to Supervisor. • May be required to lift equipment, tools, or any combination in excess of 100 pounds. • Skilled in the use of tools and the operation of machines and equipment used in automobile repair and maintenance. • Adheres to all traffic laws, applicable Federal and State health and safety rules, local ordinances, and Jackson Parish Police Jury rules and regulations and policies and procedures. • Ability to drive various pieces of equipment used by the Police Jury. • Follows safety procedures and practices as required, as well as wearing required safety • Performs other job-related duties, as assigned.
Detailed Job Description available upon request.
The Jackson Parish Police Jury is hiring for the following open position.
Please submit all applications to: Jackson Parish Police Jury Administrative Building, 160 Industrial Drive, Jonesboro, LA 71251. To request a detailed job description, please contact our office at (318) 259-2361 or by email: egibbs@jppj.org.
POSITION: Operator I DEPARTMENT: Jackson Parish Solid Waste Department
Description: Under close supervision, the Solid Waste Department Operator I is a semi-skilled to skilled position consisting of equipment operation, manual labor, and maintenance repair of various pieces of light and heavy motorized equipment and trucks used in solid waste management, maintenance, inclement weather, and other generalized work. Incumbent may be used as a relief operator on equipment of a higher class if qualified and trained.
Minimum Qualifications: • In good standing as an employee in current position • Class B CDL Driver’s License required; progression towards Class A CDL a plus
Basic Responsibilities: • Primarily operates trackhoe/packer located at the Solid Waste Landfill. • Directs compact trucks and the public to the proper dumping areas in the landfill. • Packs and tarps the garbage in the trailers and prepares the trailers to be transported to the Union Parish Landfill. • Keeps the wall area washed and clean. • Cleans out drains and bins, when necessary. • Monitors the water transport and hauls and empties, when necessary. • Picks up general litter and debris around the landfill, keeping it clean and organized. • Cross-trained on all Operator II positions; prepared and able to operate any and all equipment used at the landfill. • Serves as a backup for the Specialty Equipment Operator (Compact Truck), if qualified, trained, and licensed and Operator I and II positions, if necessary (at the appropriate set-up rate). • Physically present to perform the duties of the position. • Performs walkaround safety checks at the beginning of every day noting any deficiencies found on equipment and report to Supervisor. • Complete daily paperwork noting equipment and materials used each day and daily equipment forms. • Must have good working knowledge of equipment and safety habits. • Performs manual work functions associated with construction, maintenance, and cleanup of the solid waste landfill and off-site bin sites in accordance with all safety regulations and procedures.
Detailed Job Description available upon request.
NOTICE OF PERMIT TO SALE
Village of Chatham Council Meeting Minutes March 13, 2023
The Chatham council meet at its regular call meeting on Tuesday, March 13, 2023, at 6pm with the following members present: Mayor Gregory Harris, Councilmembers Laverne Mixon, Toni Malone, Sue Proffer, and Mike Wilson were absent. The meeting was called to order by Mayor Harris with pledge led by Toni Malone and prayer offered by Mayor Harris. Toni Malone motioned, and Mike Wilson seconded and was accepted by all to approve the minutes as read of the regular meeting held on February 14, 2023. Toni Malone motioned, and Mike Wilson seconded and was accepted by all to pay the monthly bills. Village Attorney Gary Nunn was present to go over Ordinance 12-163 (an ordinance establishing public nuisances within the corporate limits of Chatham, Jackson Parish, Louisiana, setting procedures to remedy and setting penalties). Mike Wilson motioned, and Toni Malone seconded and was accepted by all to pass Resolution 2023-03; a resolution authorizing the Village of Chatham to state their intent to maintain permit requirements as set forth by national pollutant discharge elimination system to prevent wastewater permit violations and other matters with respect thereto. Mike Wilson motioned and Sue Proffer seconded and was accepted by all to approve Mobile Home Permit 2023-01 for Chelsea Wyatt at 206 Hwy 146. Toni Malone motioned, and Sue Proffer seconded and was accepted by all to repair the fence at the sewer plant. Toni Malone motioned, and Laverne Mixon seconded and was accepted by all the financial statements as presented. Paula Ackley motioned, and Laverne Mixon seconded and was accepted by all to adjourn the meeting.
Earle Conrad Sherman was born Friday, April 6, 1928, in West Nyack, New York to the late Whitney and Elizabeth Sherman. He passed away on March 16, 2023, surrounded by his loving family. He was a veteran of WWII and was honorably discharged from the U.S. Coast Guard in 1946.
He spent most of his career in the paper industry as manager of machinery design for Robert Gair Co., later Continental Can Company in New York, NY. In 1960 he moved to Monroe, LA as a manager of Packaging Machinery Design, at Olin Mathieson as director of design, development, and sales of multi-packaging machines.
He traveled throughout the world. He held many patents for machines and folding cartons. During his tenure at Olin, he was a Special Advisor to the chairman of the board and also Vice President of the photocopy inc., a subsidiary of Olin. He retired in 1983 and formed Western Slope Ind. in Colorado with Partners. This company modified, redesigned, and manufactured worldwide. He was a member of Ebenezer Baptist Church in Weston.
Those left to love and miss him are his wife of 47 years, Jimmie Sherman; six children, Sandra, Lesly, Gail, David, Robert, and James Whitney.
Friends may visit with the family in the chapel of Southern-Edmonds Funeral Home on Monday, March 20, 2023, from 1:00PM until the time of services. Funeral services are set to begin at 2:00PM in the chapel with Reverends Randy Lee and Chris Lee officiating. Interment will follow in Ebenezer Cemetery under the direction of Southern-Edmonds Funeral Home.
Serving the family as pallbearers will be Wyatt Amidon, Mike Meuwly, Caleb Kennedy, George Doughty, Brent Herren, and Delwyn Peters. Honorary Pallbearers will be Bill Kight, Roy Parker, and Bill Meuwly.
The family would like to express grateful appreciation and thank Dr. Parkerson, her staff, along with Heart of Hospice for all the love and excellent care they provided Mr. Sherman.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Louisiana Baptist Children’s Home, 7200 Desiard Street Monroe, LA 71203.
The Office of the Jackson Parish Clerk of Court (JPCC) announces that names have been drawn for the MARCH 20, 2023 PETIT JURY. You can check the link below to see if your name has been drawn. Individuals listed should have already received an official summons from the Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office.
As always, events may occur whereby a Jury will not be needed. If your name is listed you are asked to call the Clerk of Court office at (318) 259-2424 over the weekend of MARCH 18-19 and listen to the RECORDING to find out if it is necessary for you to appear. Updates will also be provided on the JPCC Facebook page will be updated as well.
For list of names drawn for the March 20th Petit Jury click here.
The 3-2A All-District teams were recently released and representing Jonesboro-Hodge High School on the first team was senior point guard Ajay Tew, son of JHHS head coach Allen Tew.
Two additional Tigers, Zion Gray and Cameron Phillips, earned Honorable Mention designation and Savantez Phillips was chosen to the All-Defensive Team. All four were seniors on the Tigers squad that made it to the regional round of the LHSAA Division IV playoffs.
The Most Valuable Player was Keithan Hamilton of Division III state runner-up and district 3-2A champion Winnfield Senior High School. Additional first team selections were Alonzo Driver from Lakeview High School, Laketric Robinson of Mansfield High and Shayloin Newton from Red River High School in Coushatta.
The second team consisted of Decavion Duncan, Gerald Robinson, and Jaylon Jackson from Winnfield along with Clifton Jones and Dillion Pikes from district 3-2A runner-up Lakeview.
Each All-District and All-Defensive team representative was chosen by the head coaches from district 3-2A. No coach was allowed to select a player from his own team.
District 3-2A All-District First Team
MVP – Keithan Hamilton (Senior) – Winnfield High School – 16 ppg Alonzo Driver (Junior) – Lakeview High School – 11.3 ppg Ajay Tew (Senior) JHHS – 11.2 ppg 5.8 apg Laketric Robinson (Senior) – Mansfield High School – 13.2 ppg Shayloin Newton (Senior) – Red River High School – 19.3 ppg
Second Team Decavian Duncan – Winnfield Jr Clifton Jones – Lakeview Sr Gerald Robinson – Winnfield Sr Jaylon Jackson – Winnfield Soph Dillion Pikes – Lakeview Sr
All-Defense Team Isaac Jenkins – Mansfield Sr Trent Williams – Many Sr Savantez Phillips – JHHS Sr Jayden Wells – Red River Soph Nick Baily – Mansfield Sr
Honorable Mention Zion Gray – JHHS Cameron Lenonard – JHHS
Have you heard the one about a project involving the Town of Jonesboro, Jackson Parish Police Jury, civic agencies and local businesses moving forward quickly? Got to be a wild tale right? After all, experience has taught that nothing gets done fast when it involves government bodies and especially when a conglomerate of parties are involved. This is no joke or wild tale though. This is actually happening.
What is being referred to is the Town of Jonesboro Sidewalk Project that wasn’t even a thought until just a couple of months ago. Already an estimate of what the rehabilitation / replacements of the sidewalks along both sides of Jimmie Davis Blvd will cost and the consensus approval to apply for the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) grant that will be used to pay for the project has been completed and agreed upon. It is a good thing too as by the time that even anyone knew about the grant that was available time was already clicking and a deadline to apply loomed close.
How it all began! Town of Jonesboro and Jackson Parish residents can credit Jackson Parish Library Jonesboro Branch Manager, Angela Walsworth, for getting things started and for seeing it through to it’s current point. While researching through possible grants available for the Library, Walsworth found hidden among a plethora of grants offered by the state one that is for downtown revitalization projects.
“Angela (Walsworth) called me to let me know that she had seen this and thought it was something that we should be interested in,” said Jackson Parish Police Juror Regina Rowe. “Even though it didn’t apply to what she was trying to do for the Library, she had enough interest and desire to help the town that she took it upon herself to learn more and basically has spearheaded this whole process. I think she deserves recognition for this and I know we as the Police Jury appreciate what she is doing. and has already done.”
Civic leaders take action! Through several calls, Walsworth and others promptly formed a civic committee that includes Jonesboro State Bank President Thurston Allen, Town of Jonesboro Mayor James “Spike” Harris and Rowe, representing the Police Jury. In lightning speed a questionnaire was distributed to residents, civic groups, businesses, churches and schools where the public was asked where they thought the placement or improvement of sidewalks within the city limits of Jonesboro would best serve the public. This was submitted to the DOTD who replied that all the requirements to be allowed to apply for the roughly $900,000.00 grant available had been met.
City Government bodies step up! Next up was the process of having the grant formally applied for. This meant that the Town of Jonesboro would have to provide 5% of the roughly $900K grant amount ($45,000.00) as required by the DOTD as matching funds. If you are not familiar with state grants, submitting matching funds is a normal condition to even be considered for a grant and 5% is a very unusually low amount that normally has to be forwarded to the state. As an example, when the town of Jonesboro applied for LCDBG grants for water and sewage infrastructure projects it was required to submit 25% in matching funds. NOTE: If grant is not given the matching funds submitted are returned.
For the money to be submitted it meant that the Board of Aldermen would have to approve a Resolution. Through the daily efforts of the Sidewalk Project Committee Jonesboro Mayor Harris and several council members got on board so that the Resolution approval was put on the agenda for the next meeting which was on Tuesday, March 14th.
There was concern that possibly some may think that the project was trying to be pushed down the Board of Alderman’s throat without a thorough investigation or discussion being held.
“I come before you tonight to let you know that we are not trying to jam this down your throats,” said Jonesboro State Bank President and Sidewalk Committee member Thurston Allen at the Board of Aldermen meeting on Monday. “It is just that if we are going to have a chance to get the grant money we have to act now as we are nearing the deadline to apply.”
Instead the comment was met with enthusiasm and appreciation by the members of the Town Council and those in attendance.
“I think this is a great example of what can happen when various governmental bodies and civic groups work together,” said Jonesboro Alderman James Ginn. “I applaud everyone involved for getting on the same page to make this happen in this amount of time. I would like to see this more often.”
Police Jury gets involved! The Sidewalk Project Committee, several town council members and Mayor Harris began having conversations with various Police Jury members asking for their support in helping get Jonesboro approved for the grant. The thought process was that if the DOTD saw that the Police Jury was also involved it may help move Jonesboro up in the pecking order of which municipalities would be approved. There was also the matter of finding the $45,000.00 needed for the matching funds.
This meant that even more quick work had to be done. As like required with the Town of Jonesboro, for the Jackson Parish Police Jury to get involved a formal approval to assist the town had to be voted on. The problem there though was that the JPPJ regularly meets on the third Tuesday each month, one week later than the Board of Aldermen and it needed to be approved before the Town Council voted.
To the JPPJ’s credit, a special session was called for Monday, March 13th one day before the Town Council would meet. During the session JPPJ President Todd Culpepper agreed that the Police Jury being involved could help the grant be awarded to Jonesboro.
“I think that when DOTD Director Nunez sees that we are working with the town of Jonesboro to get this grant this would make him more inclined to put our joint effort up at the top of the list,” said Culpepper. “I know from experience of applying for grants over the years that when a town and parish both are included in an application that it gets higher placement.”
The discussion then turned to the JPPJ assisting Jonesboro with funds, which is how the item to be discussed in the special session was worded on the agenda. When the jurors learned that only $45,000.00 would be needed, that the money was going to be reimbursed and if the grant was not awarded that the state would return the money for matching funds within 30-45 days it basically became a “no brainer.”
“I think this is really a good deal that we need to take advantage of,” said Juror Amy Magee. “Anytime you can get grant money for only 5% in matching funds you need to do it.”
The Police Jury formally agreed to assist the Town of Jonesboro with the $45,000.00. The next evening the Jonesboro Board of Aldermen agreed to adopt a Resolution that would allow for the application of the grant.
Two actions in two days by two separate governing bodies regarding the same thing. Sounds like a wild tale but it really has taken place. Congratulations!
Terry’s Flower Shop, located at 214 Jimmie Davis Blvd. in Jonesboro is changing the name of the business to Always Eva’s Flowers. Owner Terry Jones explained the reason behind the name change.
Due to circumstances beyond my control, I am changing the name of my flower shop to Always Eva’s Flowers. I chose the new name in honor of my mother who first opened a flower shop in 1982 called Eva’s Flowers and Gifts and instilled in me the desire to have my own floral business.
Nothing else has changed. We will still be at the same location, have the same phone number, and most importantly still have the same staff that works above and beyond to please you and make your flower arrangements as special as we always have.
The reason behind changing the name of the business is that people were confusing my business with an online conglomerate called Terry’s Florist. This company is not a flower shop but a deceptive order-gathering service and broker.
Their method of operation is to lead you to believe they are located locally where you’re sending your flowers and claim they are actually filling your order themselves when in fact they ARE NOT. Instead, they will contract with a local shop to have your order completed, keeping as profit as much as 25% or more of the money they charged their customers as a broker’s fee.
I have learned that many flower shops are now refusing to accept orders from this company due to their deceptive business practice. What is worse is that we are receiving calls from upset customers whose orders were messed up or even worse never delivered, who are mistaking us for them. These same people are also going online to make complaints which since our company names are so similar is causing our ratings to plummet.
I and my staff work diligently to ensure that our customers are pleased with their requests and our creations. I love being in an industry that brings joy to others on many occasions and also often times helps comfort those who have experienced a loss of a family member or friend.
To help ensure that your floral order will be handled correctly, I offer these suggestions.
(1) Purchase your flowers through a florist/flower shop you are familiar with. (2) Have that florist/flower shop coordinate out-of-town deliveries. (3) If you don’t know a florist, when purchasing sympathy flowers contact the funeral home being used and ask them for a recommendation of who to use. (4) If placing an order online always confirm that the address shown is an actual physical location of an operating florist/flower shop.
The “stars of tomorrow” recently completed the 2023 Youth Basketball League season that was organized and conducted by the Jackson Parish Recreation Department. Over 320 boys and girls from the ages of 5 – 14 played competed in eight leagues that consisted of a combined 41 teams.
Special thanks goes to Ruffled Feathers Photography in Jonesboro, who generously submitted pictures of each team and the cheerleaders to the Jackson Parish Journal for publication.
Pictures of each team and individual photos of each participant is available for purchase by contacting Ashley Wyatt at (318) 475-0887 or by sending an email to ashley@ruffledfeathersphotography.com
Play at the Plate! photo courtesy of Tony Valentino
The hits just keep on coming! Tom Cruise made that excerpt famous when he uttered the line during the 1992 blockbuster movie A Few Good Men. It is even more apropos today as it now is being referred to the unbelievable string of home runs that freshman phenom Maggie Guyotte has put together.
In QHS’s district 1B victories over Weston and Castor by 14-3 and 17-3 scores, “Going, Going, Gone” Guyotte had four RBI while walloping a home runs against Weston and drove in five more after connecting twice against Castor to give her at least one “tater” in seven straight games and nine in all over the period. For the season now Guyotte has gone yard 14 times and driven in 37 runs which according to MaxPreps.com is the two best totals for a freshman in the NATION and the second best in the state among any player from any classification. For good measure she also pitched her team to victory against the parish rival. Cali Deal continued a streak of her own, as she won her 8 straight in the circle against Castor to go along with two saves in 10 appearances this season.
Weston dominates Doyline
Weston 18 Doyline 3: The Lady Wolves rallied from the loss to Weston to even their district 1B record at 1-1 after scoring 11 runs in the top of the second inning to go along with the six they scored in the first. Alaina Trosclair had her best game of the year as she socked a home run and a double, drove in five and scored three. Carly Jo Griffin also trotted around the bases after going deep, scored three and drove in two. Gracie Mudge went 3/3 with 3RBI and a run scored, while Josie Irvin got two hits, scored twice and had an RBI. Anslee Aldy, who was the winning pitcher helped herself with a 2/2 day with 2RBI and a run scored. while Betty McCarty had a hit, scored a run and knocked one in. Jacie Ledford also smashed a triple, had an RBI and scored three times.
Castor crushes JHHS
What goes up must come down – Newton’s Law The Jonesboro-Hodge baseball team got a lesson in physics on Tuesday as after winning a second game out of the last three, the Tigers came crashing back to earth. Castor crushed JHHS 27-3 by jumping out to a 9-0 lead after one and put the game away with 16 more in the second. Alfonso Calahan and Trey Trosclair got two hits for the Tigers who fell to 2-6 on the year.
Minden slips by Quitman
Minden scored a single run in six of the seven innings taking advantage of a season worst 9 errors. Logan Ponder led the Wolverines with two hits, two runs score and an RBI. Ian Tilley took the loss on the bump for the Wolverines
Weston whips West Ouachita
Tait Henderson pitched five innings of shut out ball before tiring against the Division 1 opponent to even their record at 7-7. Colton Blundell, Cole Tolar and Drew Browning all got two hits each, while Henderson helped his own cause with a hit and two RBI’s. Bryce Zehr pitched the seventh for the save.
The Jackson Parish School Board (JPSB) held their regularly scheduled monthly meeting at the Jackson Parish School District (JPSD) Central Office on Monday, March 13th. Featured on the agenda was JPSD Student Support Coordinator, Rebecca Womack, and Jonesboro-Hodge Elementary School Counselor, Tristen Bergholtz.
The pair gave an informative update on the Reimagine Schools and Wrap Around Programs that are in place at J-HES to members Gerry Mims, Rick Barlow, Paulette Belton, Dennis Clary, Mary Saulters and president Calvin Waggoner, who applauded the progress and results both programs have achieved. Wade McBride was absent.
The Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE) announced the launch of the Reimagine School Systems program in September 2021. Thirty one school systems across the state, including the JPSD, originally shared in a $35 million grant, that in 2022 was increased to $40 million. The program encourages school systems to create new, bold educational opportunities that would expand possibilities for students.
Reimagine Grant Project Coordinator Womack started the presentation by recognizing contributions provided by civic partners Hodge Strong Foundation, Jackson Parish Hospital, One TeleMed, Tiger Clothing Closet (Lexi’s Closet), Miles for Smile Dental Clinic, Pine Belt Multi-Purpose Community Action Agency along with parents and community leaders.
Wrap Around Services Counselor, Tristen Bergholtz then took the floor providing uplifting information on how innovative small group and individual student academic counseling sessions have dramatically improved semester grades and decreased discipline problems.
Bergholtz then complimented the Hodge Strong Foundation for helping provide improved nourishment for the students through their Backpack Meals Program and the Tigers Closet for helping provide clothing for students in need. This was followed by recognizing the school administration, led by Principal Danielle Copeland, for coordinating engagement events that has proven to be effective in creating improved parental participation and a decrease in unexcused student absences.
Events and activities identified were Grandparents Thanksgiving Meal, Wellness Enrollment, Spelling Bee, Homecoming, Mardi Gras Parade, Town Hall meeting with the Mayor and the creation of a boys and girls basketball team.
The Wraparound Services Program is a team-based, collaborative process for helping children and youth with behavioral health needs. Families learn to identify and use their strengths and community resources are incorporated to address their individual needs.
They may not be ready for games by the time the season ends but the baseball field at Weston High and the home of JHHS softball is receiving upgrades thanks to action taken by the Jackson Parish School Board on Monday.
Board members accepted the low quote of $18,493.07 from BSN Sports for 3 sets of bleachers and 2 player benches at Weston High School baseball field, to be paid from Weston District funds.
The also accepted the low quote of $24,200.00 from Dodson Enterprises, Inc. for labor and material to remove and rebuild dugouts for Jonesboro Hodge High School softball dugouts, to be paid from Jonesboro District funds. In a corresponding move the low quote of $11,840.00 from DG&E Logging and Chipping for 330 yards of topsoil for Jonesboro Hodge Softball field to be paid from Jonesboro District funds was approved.
Additional moves made included:
(1) Accept low quote of $17,000.00 from Southern Roofing & Vinyl Siding, LLC for material and labor to replace roofing on the Jonesboro Hodge High School Powerhouse, to be paid from Jonesboro District funds. (2) Accept low quote of $27,445.00 from Dodson Enterprises, Inc. for labor and materials for Portable Building Deck/Ramp at Weston High School, to be paid from ESSER II. (3) Pay $17,937.11 to SHI for the annual renewal of the Microsoft Campus license, to be paid from the General fund. (4) Payment of General Fund, Federal Program, Food Service, Sales Tax, Special Education Fund and District Maintenance Bills (5) Pay $23,050.00 to White Rock Cybersecurity for the three (3) year renewal of the ESET antivirus, to be paid from the General fund. (6) Accept low quote of $11,835.80 from Staples for office supplies at Student Service Center, to be paid from IDEA funds. (7) Accept low quote of $30,479.00 from Guitar Center for Band Equipment at Jonesboro Hodge High School, to be paid from Jonesboro District funds. (8) Accept quote of $22,500.00 from New Directions to provide coaching for regular classroom teachers to meet the needs of students with disabilities at Jonesboro Hodge Elementary School, to be paid from IDEA 619 ARP funds.
In final action the JDE – Expulsion and JDD – Suspension Policies were revised. Prior to the regularly scheduled meeting a special session was held where an update on ESSER funds was provided.
Fans of Quitman High School softball has been blessed to witness many tremendous athletic achievements over the years but none like what freshman phenom Maggie Guyotte turned in during the six day period of March 6-11. For that matter neither has anyone in all of Jackson Parish because it has never been done before.
As result of her wonderous week of play, Guyotte has been named as the inaugural Jackson Parish Journal Spring Standout of the Week. This new award that is being sponsored by VP Raceway FastLube of Jonesboro, will honor the best weekly performance by an athlete from JHHS, Quitman or Weston High School in the spring sports of baseball, softball, track, tennis or golf.
While there were several good performances by parish athletes the decision to choose Guyotte to be the first winner was relatively an easy one. Six times she trotted around the bases by virtue of home runs in five straight contests that included two “taters” in one. Added to the production was six other times she reached base via a double, a single, three walks and getting hit by a pitch that resulted in a .533 batting average (8 hits/15 at bats), six runs scored and 10 runs batted in.
Her contribution to the five straight victories achieved over top competition that vaulted Quitman High School from #9 to #1 in the LHSAA Division V ranking among “non-select” schools, didn’t stop there.
Guyotte also recorded three victories in three starts in the circle for the Lady Wolverines where she struck out 13 batters in 15.2 innings and compiled a 0.984 ERA. Included was a two-hit shutout of Division III foe North Webster, a two-hit victory against #14 ranked Hicks and beating Bell City when they were the #1 ranked team in Division V.
After Monday’s district 1B opening victory over parish rival Weston, where Guyotte once again hit a home run for now her sixth straight game and drove in five runs, her statistics for the year as of March 13th is a .596 batting average with 12 home runs, four doubles, a triple, 33 RBI and 19 runs scored. The home run total is a continual evolving record by a freshman in Jackson Parish, and according to Maxpreps.com is tops in the entire nation for a freshman and 2nd in the state and tied for 4th in the nation in all classifications. The 33 RBI’s also tops all freshmen in the state, is the 2nd highest total statewide among all classes and is tied for 2nd in the nation among freshman.
By being named the first ever weekly winner of the Jackson Parish Journal Spring Sport Standout Award, Guyotte is now eligible for the Spring Sport Standout Star of the Year Award that will be presented after all athletic competition comes to a close this spring.
Stump Removal and Grinding: Call James Stewart at (318) 243-1009 or (318) 768-2554 for your stump removal and grinding needs. Free Estimates! 
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 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. 
Jackson Parish Journal Spring Standout of the Week. This new award that is being sponsored by VP Raceway FastLube of Jonesboro, will honor the best weekly performance by an athlete from JHHS, Quitman or Weston High School in the spring sports of baseball, softball, track, tennis or golf.