The Boil Advisory or the Town of Jonesboro has been lifted. Mayor J. “Spike” Harris gave the welcome news to residents at 11:56 am on Tuesday. 

The Town of Jonesboro had been put on a Boil Advisory on Sunday, August 27th as a precautionary measure after a main line on South Hudson Avenue had blown in four different places causing residents to lose of water pressure for a period of time and the “high tank” to be drained.

“I applaud our water department for their fast and efficient work in getting our water back on line,” said Jonesboro Mayor J. “Spike” Harris. “I also thank our residents for their patience.”    

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The State of Louisiana Second Circuit Court of Appeals has reversed the original decision handed down by 2nd Judicial District Court Judge, Rick Warren, in regard to the recall petition seeking to remove Dr. J. “Spike” Harris as Mayor of Jonesboro.

The fourteen page decision that was rendered on August 29th, stated in summary that the Jackson Parish Registrar of Voters did have the authority to rule out 49 signatures that made the recall petition invalid. 

“Naturally we are pleased with the decision,” said Harris. “We felt that we were in a comfortable position based on the advice we were receiving from our counsel.”

Does this finally end the near year long drama that has gripped Jonesboro ever since Harris won the November 2022 election over Leslie Thompson by a mere 20 votes?

“I hope so but they certainly have the right to file for an appeal to this decision if they choose,” said Harris. “Regardless, we are going to ignore any distractions and continue to work to move Jonesboro forward as we have the last ten months.”

The continued battle of the election results and voting procedures has not only caused division among residents of Jonesboro, it has now taken a physical toll on Thompson. Soon after the latest decision was revealed, the former Mayor collapsed for reasons unknown and was rushed to Willis Knighton Medical Center in Shreveport where he was held for observation before being released. 

“I ask everyone to lift Leslie up in their prayers and we all hope he fully recovers soon,” said Harris. 

Recap of Mayor Election Events to Date

November 8, 2022 – Challenger J. “Spike” Harris was declared the winner of the Jonesboro Mayor’s race by a mere 20 votes, outpolling incumbent Leslie Thompson by a 685 – 665 margin.

November 15, 2022 – A recount by LA Election officials and the Jackson Parish Registrar of Voters was conducted at the request of Thompson, where only mail-in ballots were recounted. The result was no change in the totals prompting Thompson to vow “We cannot concede until we have done everything that the law allows us to do.” 

January 3, 2023 – A recall petition containing 881 potential elector’s signatures for the removal of Harris as Mayor of Jonesboro was filed with the LA Secretary of State by Thompson, Danettia Hayes, Devin Flowers and Henry Bradley. The petition was then presented to Jackson Parish Registrar of Voters Tina Cockerham who after review disqualified 134 of those signatures for failing to meet the requirements of LA. Revised Statute 18:3 of being registered voter, or not residing within the election voting area or not including accurate date of birth information. The number of verified signatures required to trigger the recall sought by the petitioners was 694 or 33.33% of the registered voters. With the disqualification of the 134 signatures the number of verified signatures fell to 677, insufficient to meet the threshold requirement of the recall. 

August 15, 2023 – The group of petitioners filed a “Petition for Writ of Mandamus” in trial court seeking to certify 49 of the signatures alleging that Cockerham had the duty to certify all qualified electors who signed the recall petition. 

August 17, 2023 – Cockerham filed an “Exception of No Cause of Action on Behalf of the Registrar of Voters alleging that the plaintiffs failed to state a cause of action that would entitle them to relief on a Writ of Mandamus because the duty assigned to the Registrar contained an “element of discretion that defeats the right to mandamus.” Cockerham asserted that her act of verifying signatures was an exercise of her discretion in judging whether the signature on the petition appeared to be that of the voter. 

August 21, 2023 – After arguments on both petitions were heard, 2nd Judicial District Court Judge, Rick Warren, a written judgement was rendered ordering that the 49 signatures, which had been rejected, be added back to the petition and be verified. The inclusion of the 49 signatures increased the number of signed recall petitioners to 726 and above the threshold required for a recall vote. Cockerham immediately filed for an appeal. 

August 29, 2023 – The State of Louisiana Second Circuit Court of Appeals heard Cockerham’s legal counsel, led by LA Attorney General Jeff Landry, raise three assignments of error before ordering that once again the 49 signatures be removed. The result was that again the recall petition fell below the required number of signatures. Additionally it was ordered that all costs associated with the appeal be assessed to the appellees. 

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Jonesboro-Hodge kicks off the 2023 regular season this Friday by hosting General Trass at 7:00 pm at Caldwell-Peacock Stadium. The contest marks the second year in a row that the Tigers have opened with the District 2-2A team out of Lake Providence with JHHS head coach Terrance Blankenship hoping for a better result. 

“They really jumped on us last year at their place,” said Blankenship. “Hopefully we will get off to a better start this year.”

For the record, General Trass won the contest 48-14 after leading the Tigers by four scores at the half on their way to an 8-4 season record and a regional round appearance in the Division IV playoffs. It marked the third year in a row that GT has reached at least the second round. 

Entering into his ninth year at the helm, head coach Toriano Wells has turned the Panthers into a consistent winner and has several veterans returning leading to optimism of another successful season. 

JHHS is coming off a 3-8 season and a first round loss in the Division IV playoffs hoping that the adversity that was faced last year turns into a benefit this season. Despite being thin in numbers and young in age, the Tigers return several players who were forced into action and gained valuable experience. 

In season opening jamboree action JHHS played a strong St. Frederick team tough before running out of gas late in the contest to fall 22-0. Defensively the Tigers stood strong as the score but the Tigers offense struggled mightily against the Warriors. General Trass had little trouble dispatching Madison Parish High 20-0. 

Players to watch: (General Trass)

#13 – Kameron Williams, Sr. RB / MLB. – The bona fide college prospect is recognized as one of the top linebackers in north Louisiana. Wreaked havoc last year with 78 tackles, two interceptions, three forced fumbles, four fumble recoveries, four sacks and a blocked punt. Strong runner as well but used more as a punishing blocker.

#1 – Ahmoniee Williams, Jr. QB / DB – A stud at defensive back last year takes over as trigger man for the Panther offense. How he handles the new duties will be a key to the Panthers offensive fortunes.

#2 – Dylan Baker, Sr.. WR / DB– Outstanding receiver that has the kind of burst that makes him dangerous from anywhere on the field.  Two way player is a ballhawk in the defensive backfield as well. 

Players to Watch (Jonesboro-Hodge)

#3 – Dakota Knox, Sophomore DB / QB – Was named Player of the Game at Bayou Jamb after making an interception and turning in a stellar performance from his defensive back position. Started second half at QB. Possess break away speed once he reached the edge. 

#1 – Za’Mauryian Palmer, Jr. WR / DB – At 200 lbs. gives Tigers a distinct mismatch in size on the edge. If he gets enough touches can be a difference maker.

#10 – Landon Boston, Sophomore, RB / LB – Another who played lots of minutes as a Freshman and proved to be up to the task. By years end was one of the Tigers top tacklers. This year gets a chance punishing opponents the ball in his hand as well.

Keys to victory!

Conditioning! Both squads will be playing a lot of people both ways. Temp is expected to be in the low 90’s so whoever avoids key players falling with cramps will have a huge advantage.

Must get good QB play! It was the bane of the season last year as JHHS had four take snaps. Two did at the Jamboree with neither having any success. Must get good play from this position.

Senior laden line needs to step up! No where on the team has as many senior starters than the offensive and defensive line. Each has good size and has potential to be a force. Effort will be the key. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Despite the rain that Jackson Parish received on Sunday, the “No Exception” Burn Ban that was issued by the Louisiana State Fire Marshall on August 25th remains in effect. Included is an executive order signed by Governor Jon Bel Edwards suspending all prescribed burns in the state, including those used for forest, agricultural and coastal land management.

Violation of the burn ban order could result in criminal and civil penalties.

“Right now our state is facing a very dangerous and unpredictable situation with lots of fires burning statewide, and we cannot afford to have any exceptions to the current burn ban,” said Edwards. “

The governor’s office said more than 440 fires have damaged or destroyed more than 30,000 acres of land since a State of Emergency was declared in late July. 

“While we don’t know how long we will be in this situation, we do know that by adhering to the burn ban we can lessen the chances of any other fires from starting.” continued Edwards. 

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The first tournament to be played in the newly refurbished gymnasium at Quitman High School will take place this coming Thursday and Friday when the Quitman Junior High team plays host to seven area schools in girls and boys competition. Tournament schedule.

Thursday
4:00 pm – Weston vs Choudrant  (Girls)
4:45 pm – Weston vs Choudrant (Boys)
5:30 pm – Claiborne Christian vs Dodson (Girls)
6:15 pm – Claiborne Christian vs Dodson (Boys)
7:00 pm – Quitman vs Calvin (Girls)
7:45 pm – Quitman vs Calvin (Boys)

Friday
4:00 pm – Castor vs Quitman/Calvin winner (Girls)
4:45 pm – Castor vs Quitman/Calvin winner (Boys)
5:30 pm – Weston/Choudrant winner vs Claiborne/Dodson winner (Girls)
6:15 pm – Weston/Choudrant winner vs Claiborne/Dodson winner (Boys)
7:00 pm – Girls Finals
7:45 pm – Boys Finals

Quitman Jr. High sweeps Saline 

Quitman 24 Saline 24 (boys) Sixth grader Joseph Delaney set a new season team mark and personal career best by hitting four three pointers en route to a team high 12 points to help Quitman Junior High gain revenge of the loss to Saline in the finals of the Dodson Tournament last Friday. The Wolverines evened their season slate to 3-3 with their third victory in the last four games. 

Elijah Calloway and Rylan Mauthe scored four each and Braiden Robinson added a basket to lift Saline to a 10-8 first quarter lead. Two trey’s by Delaney and two points from Eli Jackson kept it close. The Bobcats stretched the lead to 14-10 at the half with Calloway and Robinson hitting a bucket each and Hayden Seymore getting the only points for the Wolverines. 

A three pointer each from Delaney and Seymore and a basket by Kaleb Maxwell helped Quitman storm back to take a 18-16 lead after three in the defensive slugfest with Gavin Bellard making the only two points of the quarter for Saline. Calloway scored six and Bellard two in the final frame for the Bobcats but it wasn’t enough to offset Delaney’s fourth trey and four clutch points by Mathew Odom.  

TEAM	1	2	3	4	FINAL
Quitman (3-3)	8	2	8	7	25
Saline	10	4	2	8	24

Quitman 25 Saline 16 (girls) Talk about taking over! Hallie Kate Pullig scored 13 of her game high 17 points in the fourth quarter to lift Quitman to the come from behind victory. The victory overshadowed another superb effort, this one turned in by Jalynn Jiles who paced Saline to a 12-5 halftime lead and scored every point for the Lady Bobcats. Breelyn Boone also came up big for Quitman, making four of her six points in the contest in the second half that saw Quitman outscore Saline 20-4. Brenna Lamkin and London Burks added a free throw each as Quitman improved to 5-1 on the year. 

TEAM	1	2	3	4	FINAL
Quitman (5-1)	2	3	5	15	25
Saline	6	6	2	2	16

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Officials with Louisiana State Police encourage the public to stay updated about the ongoing fire threat in the state through a wildfire tracking website. Troopers said the website is called Wildfire Aware and shows the real-time threat that Louisiana communities are facing.

Click here to see the website and view a map of fires in the state.

Members of the public can also stay updated by following the Louisiana State Fire Marshal’s Office, the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness, and other officials on social media.

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On Tuesday, August 29th, a landmark decision was rendered by the Louisiana State Court of Appeals that solidified Dr. J. “Spike” Harris as Mayor of Jonesboro. In response to the ruling Mayor Harris has issued the following statement. 

In a significant turn of events, the Court of Appeal has rendered a ruling overturning the recall petition of former mayor Leslie Thompson. This decision marks a turning point for our beloved city of Jonesboro, allowing us to move forward and stay focused on the progress and prosperity of our community.

The Court of Appeal thoroughly reviewed the case and carefully considered all aspects before reaching this decision. Their ruling recognizes the importance of maintaining the stability and continuity necessary to drive positive change within our city. With this outcome, the citizens of Jonesboro can rest assured that their voices have been heard and respected.

We extend our thoughts and prayers to former mayor Thompson during his hospitalization. Our community is united in wishing him a swift and full recovery. It is our sincere hope that he finds comfort and strength during this challenging time.

As we look ahead, our collective efforts will remain dedicated to fostering a thriving and inclusive city. We are committed to working tirelessly to address the unique needs and aspirations of our diverse community. Together, we will build a Jonesboro that is resilient, prosperous, and reflective of the hopes and dreams of every resident.

Dr. J. “Spike” Harris
Mayor of Jonesboro

 

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The Jackson Parish Library has announced the schedule of events for the children, tweens/teens and adults at the Jonesboro and Chatham Branches for the month of September. Also shown below is the Bookmobile schedule. 

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The Ruston Community Theatre closed out their 2022-23 season on Thursday, August 24th, with the presentation of year end awards at the 31st annual RusTony Awards Celebration held at the Dixie Center of Arts.

One winner was Quitman resident Ashton Thomas. The daughter of Kari and Wayne Thomas was recognized for the Best Musical Performance for her rendition in Cinderella of “There is Music in You.”  

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Volunteers showed their pride in being residents of the Town of Jonesboro and the state of Louisiana this past week through their assistance in the Keep Louisiana Beautiful “Get Down and Clean Up” campaign. 

“I can’t tell you how proud I am of our residents for the way they have stepped up when the call when out for volunteers,” said Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce Director Wilda Smith. “This was truly a community effort and our success was only achieved through the generosity of many who contributed their time, equipment and financial support.”

Not only did a bevy of volunteers help with the cleaning up of the town by picking up litter, several projects were undertaken and completed Included was the cleaning out of flower beds, painting and putting decals on the trash receptacles and the painting of the Pocket Park. 

Deserving special mention and thanks are: 

Randy Layfield and grandson Kacin for their help in painting the Pocket Park.
Ricky Meredith (Big Boy Mowing) for cleaning out flower beds and providing mulch.
Warren Bradley for helping clean out flower beds.
Sheryl Robinson Holder for designing the decals that were put on trash receptacles.
Carmen Ramrez Garcia, (Armadillo Grill) for paying for paint used on trash cans.
Jackson Parish Library for supplying litter cleanup supplies. 

Most of all there was JPCC Director, Wilda Smith, who played the biggest role of all by tirelessly working on and coordinating all three projects. 

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Some things are plain stupid. No gray area.

3-D Dumb.

Some people I know where robbed recently, but in his haste the robber dropped a piece of paper that was, unfortunately for him, a personal reminder of his upcoming court appearance. It included his name and address.

Oops.

And then there was the story out of Opelousas this week of the gentleman who stuck a handgun in his waistband. The gun was loaded, a live round in the chamber. It went off. Now, the man from Opelousas —and I use the term “man” loosely here — is not as loaded as he once was – although the story did contain the phrase “underwent reattachment surgery” and “Police had not determined why (stupid man’s name) was walking around with a pistol in his pants.”

Easy. No brain in his head.

Stupid move.

There are lots of ways to say that a guy’s parents don’t have to worry about the Yale Admissions Department clogging up the family doorway to offer their kid a scholarship. For no other reason than they make me laugh, I’ll offer my Top 10.

He’s a few crumbs short of a biscuit.
Somewhere, a village is missing its idiot.
It’s almost like he has a small piece of brain lodged in his head.
Dumb as a bag of hammers/sharp as a bowling ball.
He has a room temperature (or shoe-sized) IQ.
He’s a regular “Elbert” Einstein.
He’s lost all contact with the mothership.
He doesn’t have both oars in the water.
He fell out of the Stupid Tree and hit every branch on the way down.
My favorite: The wheel is turning but the hamster’s dead.

We all swallow a Stupid Pill from time to time.

But then there are things more along the lines of bad ideas. We call them mental muscle spasms. Brain cramps.

A boss buddy of mine found out the hard way this week that the letters T and G are very close to each other on the keyboard. For this reason, he will never be ending a work email with the phrase “Regards” again.

Muscle spasm.

I was told of a funeral in which the preacher, who kept candy in his desk, said that each Sunday morning the deceased would come into his office and, with a “Good morning!” and a smile, “go through my drawers.”

Brain cramp.

Finally, the worst idea I’ve heard of in a long time happened last week in Detroit, where Hall of Fame voice of the Detroit Tigers Ernie Harwell passed away at 92. A public viewing was held at Comerica Park, where the Tigers play. I am not a big “lying in state” guy to start with, but a casket on the warning track is off base on several levels. I didn’t like the picture of Ernie lying there, flowers all around, his statue by him, velvet ropes marking “foul ground,” for lack of a better term.

“Hey dad, remember when you took me to the ballpark and we saw Mr. Ernie dead?”
“Those were great times son!”

At least there was no danger of him being hit by a foul ball. At least the ballclub didn’t lay their humble, summer-sweet play-by-play guy out during a game. Thankfully, the Tigers were on the road.

As was, I guess, Ernie.

(Originally published May, 2010)

Contact Teddy at teddy@latech.edu

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The Women’s Missionary Union (WMU) of the First Baptist Church in Jonesboro joined together on Monday, August 28th, to work on bibs for Wyatt Manor residences and discuss their planned event for Forest Haven in December.

Also discussed was assisting the Jackson Parish WMU association Crafty Cafe which will be September 9th from 8 AM until 2 PM in the family life Center at First Baptist Church Jonesboro.

The Women’s Missionary Union (WMU) is the largest protestant organization for women in the world with over 1 million members! The main purpose of WMU is to educate and involve people in the cause of Christian missions. Southern Baptists have always been missions focused and today there are nearly 6,000 missionaries serving across North America and the world.

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Next year will mark the 40th anniversary of the graduation of the Class of ’84 from Jonesboro-Hodge High School. While many of the classmates have moved to other locations the memories of the good times had and the love of their alma mater is still strong.

This was evidenced recently when in an effort to help the current students of JHHS enjoy the fellowship that they enjoyed, the class generously donated an outdoor table and bench combination. 

The administration of Jonesboro-Hodge High School would like to thank the class for the “Tiger Pride” they have shown. 

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On December 12, 1923, Byron, an electrician, and Tillie, a schoolteacher, welcomed a young Indian brave to the world. The young brave spent most of his youth in the town of Mission on the Rosebud Indian reservation in South Dakota. He and the others on this particular reservation were members of what the federal government called the Rosebud Sioux Tribe. The elders called it Sicangu. His father was one-quarter Sioux. His mother had no known Native American blood. Like his parents, the young brave spoke fluent English, but little to no native tongue. One day, the young brave was walking in Mission when he saw an Indian sitting on a bench. “He had long hair, wore a blanket, and could not speak English.” Most of the people he saw on the reservation were Americanized, although he pointed out that his friends in school included Alex Raincounter and Chris Yellow Robe, boys with Indian names.

In 1938, the 15-year-old brave met who would become his high school sweetheart, Dorothy Jo, not on the reservation as his parents had met, but at an Ella Fitzgerald concert. The young brave was surprised to learn that his sweetheart was three-eighths Cherokee Indian. In decades past, their love for each other would have caused controversy between the tribes. The different tribes would have forbidden them to be together as it was in the teenage tragedy song “Running Bear,” made famous by Johnny Preston in 1959 (one of the two singers on the recording who provided the “uga-uga” and other Indian war cries was the not-yet famous George Jones).

In the song, Running Bear, a young Indian brave, was in love with an Indian maid named Little White Dove. Their tribes were separated by hatred as well as a mighty, raging river. The song ends with the Running Bear and Little White Dove swimming out to be together. After a passionate kiss, the two drowned in the swift current. “Now they’ll always be together in their happy hunting ground.” By the 1940s, the Sioux and Cherokee tribes were no longer at war, and on January 12, 1945, the young brave and Dorothy Jo married with the blessing of their families.

The young brave was always proud of his Indian heritage. He once said, “I’ve always bragged about being part Indian, because they are a people to be proud of. And the Sioux were the greatest warriors of them all. They’ve been called the greatest light cavalry in the history of man.” He quipped, “And I have never been on a horse without falling off.”

We know very little about the young brave’s life on the reservation because he rarely spoke about it. We may know little about his early life, but we all know the young brave. Last Wednesday, August 26, the young brave breathed his last. He was just three-and-a-half months shy of reaching his 100th birthday. From 1972 to 2007, we welcome him into our homes. He was the host of the longest-running daytime game show in North American television history, The Price is Right. You and I know that young brave from Rosebud Reservation. His name was Robert William “Bob” Barker.

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The finalization of the Ebenezer Pier on Caney Lake remained the focal point of the agenda during the regular monthly meeting of the Jackson Parish Watershed Commission held on August 17th.

Gary Joynor, Jerry Chestnut, Roy Barlow and Danny Ponder set the time and date for the Grand Opening of the pier to be at 9:00 am on September 8th and agreed to purchase a coin operated fish feeder to be placed on Caney Lake’s new amenity. Kent Hightower, Jimmy Waggoner and Wes Harvey was absent.

No action was taken in regard to the spillway parking signs and lane striping as well as the purchase of pier bumpers for Ebenezer launch and spillway launch

 

 

 

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NOTE: Football is sport where the majority of fans may know the names and numbers of the players but seldom see their faces and get to know them personally. In an effort to introduce the members of the 2023 JHHS football team, Jackson Parish Journal correspondent, Clay Williams, presents a question and answer interview series with Tiger players. Today – Braylon Edwards

Meet The Tigers

What’s your name, grade, number, and position?
Braylon Leonard, 12 th Grade, 51, OL/DL

What are your hobbies outside of football?
I’ve really been into gardening lately and trying to be self-sufficient by growing my own food.

What is your favorite football movie?
Friday Night Lights is an easy choice for me.

What is your favorite subject in school?
History, because I find it to be really easy, specifically U.S. History.

What is your best memory from playing football so far?
Making it to the semifinals was unforgettable, especially with how we were leading early in the game.

Who would you say is your biggest motivation in life?
Honestly myself. I push myself to get better every day and try to find any inspiration I can to keep going through all that comes my way in life.

Are there any college or NFL players that you take inspiration from?
I want to play like Von Miller, but I’m not on his level yet.

Any advice for younger players on the team or at the junior high?
Be patient and never stop working. If you put the work in, it’ll pay off in the end.

What is something important a coach has taught you?
They’ve taught me a lot of techniques that have led to me becoming a better player.

What are your plans after graduation?
I want to go to a local college and study psychology, because I like learning about the human brain. I’m also interested in studying anything about plants in college.

Lastly, what are your goals this season for yourself, and the team?
For the team, we just need to put the work in and then hopefully that will lead to as much success as possible. For myself, I want to try my best to make an impact on the team, and maybe that will lead to me being able to play in college.

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The Jackson Parish Tourism Board has announced the winners of the 2023 “The Beauty of Jackson Parish” art contest winners with Kensley Caskey of Quitman High School earning the Best of Show award.

First, second and third place winners in four separate grade divisions were also named. An exhibit of all entries will be on display at the Jonesboro Branch of the Jackson Parish Library during the month of September. 

2023 “The Beauty of Jackson Parish” Art Contest Winners

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Extreme heat and drought have contributed to wildfires throughout Louisiana, which can negatively impact air quality. LDH is urging residents in areas where wildfires are burning, or air quality is otherwise poor to take precautions to minimize the impact poor air quality can have on their health.

If you suffer from respiratory or cardiac problems and you are in proximity of a fire, please consult with your doctor. Regardless of health or age, it is vital to have an evacuation plan, whether threatened by actual fire or the effects of smoke.

Ways to stay safe

· Evacuate from the area if you are threatened by fire.
· Pay attention to local air quality reports and stay alert to any news coverage or health warnings.
· If there is an air quality advisory, stay indoors and try to minimize the intrusion of smoke. Keep the windows and doors closed.
· Do not go outside if there is a large amount of smoke outdoors.
· If possible, keep an air conditioner’s fresh air intake closed and ensure the filter is clean.
· If you do not have air conditioning, seek out a local shelter and/or cooling center.
· Air filters and purifiers can help reduce particle levels indoors. The type and size of the air purifiers should fit the size of the room or house.
· Dust masks do not provide protection and will not protect from the smaller particles.
· Check on your loved ones and neighbors, especially older adults.

People at higher risk

· Those with pre-existing respiratory and cardiovascular diseases
· People with heart diseases, such as congestive heart failure, angina or other cardiac problems
· People with lung diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), emphysema or asthma
· Older adults with chronic health problems
· Children
· People who smoke

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Not Just Wishful Thinking

We wish for calorie free foods. That’s just the beginning; we wish for trouble free days. Wishful thinking comes naturally. Trusting God is a different matter.

What will I do when trouble targets me?

Recently, I had an encouraging thought. I hope it helps you too. We fold our hands in prayer and raise them in praise; they can be reminders too. They can become weapons against panic.

Look closely at your left hand and begin counting your fingers…

1-F
2-A
3-I
4-T
5-H

We don’t have to panic; God will never forsake us. Faith overcomes fear.

“Do not fear, for I am with you;
Do not be afraid, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you, I will also help you,
I will also uphold you with My righteous right hand (Isaiah 41:10 NASB).”

I’m not finished yet; now, turn your eyes to the right hand. Count those fingers.

1-T
2-R
3-U
4-S
5-T

Banish fear; trust the LORD.

“When I am afraid,
I will put my trust in You (Psalm 56:3 NASB).”

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To have your Business Services, Job Opportunities, Items for sale, and Public / Legal Notices published – send an email to: jpjjacksonla@gmail.com. Possible costs are dependent on content. 

PUBLIC NOTICE

JACKSON PARISH COMMUNICATION DISTRICT TAKING APPLICATIONS FOR E-911 DIRECTOR

THE JACKSON PARISH COMMUNICATION DISTRICT IS HIRING FOR THE FOLLOWING POSITION. PLEASE SUBMIT ALL RESUMES TO THE JACKSON PARISH COMMUNICATION DISTRICT, 319 JIMMIE DAVIS BLVD, JONESBORO, LA. 71251 OR MAIL TO P.O. BOX 636, JONESBORO, LA 71251. APPLICATIONS WILL BE RECEIVED UNTIL 4.00 P.M., TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 5TH, 2023. TO REQUEST MORE INFORMATION ON POSITION, PLEASE CALL JACKSON PARISH COMMUNICATION DISTRICT OFFICE AT (318) 259-2103.

POSITION: JACKSON PARISH COMMUNICATION DISTRICT E-911 DIRECTOR
AGENCY: JACKSON PARISH COMMUNICATION DISTRICT.

GENERAL DUTIES:
1. SET-UP AND MAINTAIN OFFICE RECORDS TO INCLUDE HANDLING DISTRICT PAYMENTS AND MAKING MONTHLY DEPOSITS.
2. MAINTAIN AND UPDATE MAP FILE OF JACKSON PARISH ADDRESSES.
3. ASSIST THE BOARD SECRETARY IN PREPARING BOARD MINUTES AND OTHER RECORDS.
4. MAINTAIN COMPUTER WITH UPDATES OF NEW ADDRESSES.
5. HANDLE TELEPHONE CALLS AND CORRESPONDENCE FOR DISTRICT.
6. ASSIGN A PHYSICAL ADDRESS TO NEW AND EXISTING RESIDENCES, BUSINESSES, OR OTHER LOCATIONS AS REQUIRED.
7. WORK WITH OTHER AGENCIES IN THE PARISH TO ASSIST THEM WITH THEIR NEEDS RELATED TO 911 ADDRESSES.
8. HANDLE ANY STATE OR FEDERAL REQUESTS CONCERNING 911 ADDRESSES IN JACKSON PARISH.
9. PUT UP YARD 911 SIGNS OR STREET SIGNS AS NEEDED.

REQUIREMENTS
1. MUST HAVE VALID LOUISIANA DRIVERS LICENSE.
2. MUST BE AMERICAN CITIZEN.
3. MUST BE BONDABLE.
4. MUST PASS DRUG TEST.
5. MUST BE COMPUTER LITERATE IN WORD AND EXCELL PROGRAMS.
6. GIS EXPERIENCE IS PREFERRED.

OTHER:
1. POSITION IS CONSIDERED PART-TIME AND SALARY ONLY. NO OTHER BENEFITS.
2. SALARY WILL BE ON MONTHLY BASIS DEPENDING ON EXPERIENCE, QUALIFICATIONS, AND HOURS EXPECTED TO BE IN OFFICE.
3. THREE-SIX MONTHS PROBATIONARY PERIOD.

RESUMES WILL BE REVIEWED BY THE COMMUNICATION DISTRICT BOARD AT A SPECIAL CALL MEETING ON THURSDAY NOON, SEPTEMBER 7, 2023 AT THE 911 DIRECTORS OFFICE AT 319 JIMMIE DAVIS BLVD, JONESBORO, LA 71251. THE COMMNICATION DISTRICT RESERVES THE RIGHT TO REJECT ALL APPLICATIONS.

Bienville Fire District 7 is seeking applicants for the position of Part Time Fire Chief.

Bienville Fire District 7 is seeking applicants for the position of Part Time Fire Chief. The position will be responsible for administrative duties as well as incident command on scenes. Qualifications: Officer 1, Instructor 1, Incident Safety Officer, EMR but EMT is preferred. Officer 2 is preferred but not necessary. The deadline for applications is September 13, 2023. Resume must be mailed to Bienville Fire District 7, P. O. Box 309, Saline, LA 71070. Please place the resume in a sealed envelope marked Fire Chief Applicant. Note: Qualifications listed are preferred but the Board will consider negotiating.

DIVORCE NOTICE

Jazmine A. Ellis, address unknown is hereby notified that his spouse, Maryann Ada-Nta filed for divorce in Wahkiakum County, WA in April, 2023

AFFIDAVIT OF SUCCESSION

Jackson Parish Watershed District Meeting Minutes

August 17, 2023

Meeting called to order.
Opening Prayer by Mr. Joynor
Members Present: Mr. Joynor, Mr. Chestnut, Mr. Barlow, Mr. Ponder
Members Absent: Mr. Hightower, Mr. Waggoner, Mr. Harvey
No public comments.
Motion by Mr. Joynor, seconded by Mr. Barlow to approve July 20, 2023, meeting minutes. Motion Carried.
Old Business: Ebenezer Pier is completed and Fire Marshall Approved. No update on spillway no parking signs and striping lines for no parking.
Motion by Mr. Barlow, seconded by Mr. Ponder to approve July 2023, financial statement and pay invoices. Motion Carried.
No Action on approving Duck Blinds.
Motion by Mr. Chestnut, Seconded by Mr. Barlow to set Ebenezer public fishing pier grand opening for September 8, 2023 @ 9:00am. Motion Carried.
Tabled purchasing pier bumpers for Ebenezer launch and spillway launch until type and quantity to be determined.
Motion by Mr. Chestnut, seconded by Mr. Barlow to purchase coin operated fish feeder for Ebenezer Public Fishing Pier. Motion carried.
Motion to adjourn by Mr. Barlow, seconded by Mr. Ponder. Motion carried.

Scott Randall Rogers
March 10, 1961 – August 22, 2023

Scott Randall Rogers of Jonesboro, LA, passed from this world on August 22, 2023. Born to Robert and Betty Rogers on March 10, 1961, Scott always loved the great outdoors with a fondness for hunting and fishing. He was an accomplished marksman who enjoyed competition shooting and archery. He also had an artistic side that he displayed through his carvings and taxidermy. Though he was renowned for his ability to repair and refurbish firearms, he will be remembered most for his wisecracks, pranks and ability to make others laugh.

Left to cherish his memory are his brothers, Robert W. Rogers Jr (Catherine) and David M. Rogers; nieces, Brooke and Holly; nephews, Dusty and Daniel, along with a host of great nieces, great nephews, other relatives and friends.

A memorial service was held Tuesday, August 29, 2023 at 6:00 pm at North Hodge Assembly of God with Bro. Michael Whitman officiating.

Edgar Herman Shows
April 30, 1938 – August 26, 2023

Edgar Herman Shows, age 85 of Dodson, walked through Heaven’s gates on Saturday, August 26, 2023. He worked for the Hodge Paper Mill for 48 years as a painter and insulator. After retirement he enjoyed going out to eat at favorite restaurants like the Catfish Inn with his sweetheart, Melba. Edgar was a fan of Old Westerns, hunting and fishing. He enjoyed anytime he got to spend outdoors. He enjoyed working his hunting dogs. Edgar loved the entertainment of sitting on his back porch with his tobacco pipe, watching the Martins feed and fly and listening to his scanner. His favorite hobby was gardening and he was quite a green thumb when it came to raising one. He grew corn, purplehull peas, squash, tomatoes, cucumbers and the list grows on. Edgar always grew enough in his garden to send fresh corn and peas home with his whole family. He loved his family dearly, especially his great grandchildren. The love for them showed all over his face when they came for a visit and his face would always light up. Edgar was blessed to live a long life that was well lived and full of love.

Those left to cherish his memory is his wife of 65 years, Melba (Borland) Shows, children, Phillip Shows and wife Ramona of Quitman, Loretta Ledford and husband Freddie of Weston, Liz Shumake of Jonesboro, Mark Shows of Denham Springs, Jason Shows and wife Samantha of Weston; grandchildren, Nathan Shows (Christy), Bradley Shows (Brigitte), Jessica Middleton (Zack), Caleb Guyotte (Stacie), Amber Guyotte, Lance Ledford (Amanda), Jacob Shows (Anna Claire), Cole Shows, Ben Shows, Garrett Shows, Jayson Roberts, Philip “P.J.” Roberts; 9 great grandchildren; siblings, Don A. Shows and wife Bobbie of Dodson, Jerry Taylor and husband Garland of Dodson, Mary Ann Tinsley and husband Jim of Dodson; son in law, Jimmy Shumake; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins,

other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Archie and Donnis (Wyatt) Shows; brother in law, Burl Lasyone.

Funeral services are set for 11:00AM Wednesday, August 30, 2023 at Siloam Baptist Church in Gansville with Bro. Charlie Hammons and Bro. Terry Bartley officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery under the direction of Southern-Edmonds Funeral Home,

Serving the family as pallbearers will be Nathan Shows, Caleb Guyotte, Lance Ledford, Jacob Shows, Bradley Shows, Cole Shows, Ben Shows, Garrett Shows.

The family would like to extend special appreciation and thank Allegiance Healthcare Hospice and his caring sitters, Misty and Terri for all their care.

Shirley Ann Allen
February 16, 1951 – August 26th, 2023

Shirley Ann Allen was born on February 16, 1951, and passed from this life on August 26th, 2023. She was a loving wife, sister, mother, and grandmother. She enjoyed crocheting and doing needlework. She liked to hunt and fish. She was caring and friendly. She never met a stranger, to know her was to love her. She enjoyed playing games with her family and her friends, Pokeno was her favorite.
She will be dearly missed.

She is preceded in death by his parents, Dave and Ada Lee Lenard; and brothers, Ray Lenard, Gary Lenard, Herman Lenard.

Those left to cherish her memory include by her husband of fourteen years, Homer F Allen; her children Curtis Risher and spouse Callie, Chris Risher, David Risher and spouse Michelle, Nettie Truelove and husband John; her siblings Edward A Lenard and wife Charlene, and Don Lenard and wife Susie; ten grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; also survived by a host of nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

Funeral services were held Tuesday, August 29th, 2023, at First Baptist Church of Chatham with Brother Darrin Lenard officiating. Interment followed at Chatham Cemetery under the direction of Griffin Funeral Home West Monroe. 

Pallbearers were Jarrod Lenard, Stacy Lenard, Josh Lenard, Todd Lenard, Larry Don Lenard, and Bubba Givens. Honorary pallbearers were Randall Gregory, and Johnny McConnell.

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A Boil Advisory has been issued for the Town of Jonesboro until further notice. The alert was issued by Mayor J. “Spike” Harris late Saturday, August 27th, after four separate blowouts occurred on a main transmission line on South Hudson Avenue which resulted in a complete loss of water pressure in some areas and the high tank being drained.  Residents are advised to bring their water to a rolling boil for one full minute before being consumed or use bottled water as an alternative until the advisory is lifted.   

“We apologize for the inconvenience and thank you for your patience,” said Harris. 

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BATON ROUGE- Due to an increase in fire danger across Louisiana, the previous burn ban order issued August 7th has been rescinded and reissued with an update to remove the ability for exceptions to be granted by local authorities.

This new burn ban order by State Fire Marshal Dan Wallis, in collaboration with Agriculture and Forestry Commissioner Mike Strain, in effect as of August 25, 2023, at 12 p.m., prohibits ALL private burning, with no limitations, pursuant to authority under R.S. 40:1602. This order shall remain in effect until rescinded.

This updated burn ban order coincides with a separate burn ban order issued by the Department of Agriculture and Forestry prohibiting all agricultural burning including but not limited to prescribed burning.

The already extremely dry conditions statewide, and the concern over first responder safety in these dangerously high temperatures, have worsened as wildfires spread across Louisiana and significant rain relief remains elusive in weather forecasts.

Violation of this burn ban order could result in civil and/or criminal penalties.

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