When I was growing up in the country, if we wanted to hunt or fish, we went. There was no thought of needing help because every other kid I knew was like me; there were none with disabilities who weren’t able to do what I did.

Think of a youngster, nose pressed against the window glass as he sits in a wheelchair,
legs supported by braces as he can only look longingly out the window at other kids doing what he’d love to do. His disability keeps them behind the window rather than being out and doing what his little heart wishes he could.

Enter Jeff Warren and his organization for special needs kids, Dream Hunt Foundation.

You have to wonder how in the world Warren has the time from his full-time work in
construction, remodeling and owning a crawfish restaurant to kick start an organization that helps special needs youngsters.

The mission statement for the organization, Dream Hunt Foundation, sets the tone for why he has continued what he started in the spring of 2013.

It reads…”Dream Hunt Foundation desires to take kids on the hunt of a lifetime. We want to provide them a positive experience in a tough season of their life, teach them principles from a trusted adult that goes beyond the hunt and create a platform to share the hope we have in Christ.”

Warren, who lives south of Shreveport in Stonewall, launched the organization because of his vision of putting something together that would give special needs youngsters the chance to participate in activities they previously could only dream about.

“Obviously, there is no way we could do what we do without having sponsors coming
alongside of us, groups who believe in what we’re doing and are generously sponsoring events that help us fund what we do,” Warren said.

One such group, Dowlings Processing in Simsboro, is one of those groups that has come alongside Warren to help out.

On March 11, Dowlings is sponsoring a sporting clays shoot with funds generated targeting Dream Hunt Foundation.

“Dowlings is a great organization that helped us last year. They raised between $5000 and $6000 a year ago. When you think that it costs us about $500 a kid to get everything set up for an event, what they did a year ago gave 12 kids the opportunity to do something they would have never been able to do,” said Warren.

Anyone wishing to participate in the Dowling event should contact Colby Sherrard at
Dowlings at 247-6451.

Other groups that have come aboard to help include a group in Bryceland that hosted a special feral hog hunt last year raising some $5000. In addition, there are golf tournaments in Shreveport and Monroe and a sporting clays event in Ferriday along with a big raffle at the end of the year that are raising funds for Dream Hunt Foundation.

“One thing of importance is the fact that what we do is not just for youngsters in our
area,” said Warren. “Since the program began we have had up to 2,000 kids from all around the country take part in the program. Our records show that we were able to offer 400 kids the opportunity for a special hunt or fishing event last year.”

Hopefully this message will touch the hearts of individuals who would like to get
involved. Visit info@dreamhunt.tv to find out how.

FISHING REPORT

CANEY LAKE – Caney Lake Landing has been renovated with a new name and is now open for business at the bridge on Highway 4. Bass are beginning to move into the coves and pockets and are hitting soft plastics, jigs and crank baits. Carolina rigs are picking up some nice bass fishing underwater humps and drop-offs. A good many buck bass to around 4 pounds are hitting with big females on the verge of moving in. Crappie are still in fairly deep water around brush and hitting shiners or jigs. No report on bream or catfish.. For information contact Hooks Marina at 249-2347, Terzia Tackle at 278-4498 or the Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707.
BLACK BAYOU – Crappie are improving around the trees on jigs or shiners. Bass are improved around the trees on a variety of lures. No report bream. Contact Honey Hole Tackle Shop 323-8707 for latest information.
BUSSEY BRAKE – Big bass are turning on with Robby Roberts landing a new lake record 15.36 pounds. Flipping soft plastics around brush has been the ticket. Some big crappie to around 3 pounds have been caught with shiners or small spinners working best. For latest information, contact the Honey Hole at 323-8707.
OUACHITA RIVER – The water is still a bit high and few anglers have been going out. For latest information, contact the Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707.
LAKE D’ARBONNE – Crappie are making the move toward staging areas with some good catches made on shiners or jigs. Bass are beginning to move up as well and some good fish have been caught fairly shallow on spinners, crank baits and topwater lures. Bream are not yet ready but lots of catfish were caught fishing cold worms and night crawlers off the banks. For latest information, call Anderson Sport Center at 368-9669 or Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707.
LAKE CLAIBORNE – Bass are starting to move toward the shallow spawning areas with some nice fish caught on soft plastics, topwater lures and crank baits. Crappie are still best fishing deep water with jigs and shiners picking up some fish. Catfishing is good on a variety of baits. No report on bream or stripers. For latest information, call Kel’s Cove at 927-2264 or Terzia Tackle at 278-4498.
LAKE POVERTY POINT – Catfishing is good. Crappie fishing is improving on jigs and shiners as the fish begin to move more shallow with some big ones around 2 ½ pounds caught. Bass are starting to improve on soft plastics. No report on bream. For latest reports, call Poverty Point Marina at 318/878-0101.
LAKE YUCATAN – The water is fairly high but due for a slow fall. No fishermen this week. For information, call Surplus City Landing at 318/467-2259.

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The Jackson Parish Library is pleased to announce that Danadia Marshall has been selected as the Artist of Month for March. While her artistic expressions, that can be seen at the Jonesboro Branch located at  614 South Polk Avenue, are very impressive, her witness of what art can do for a person is even better.

“I am 20 years old and when I was younger, I would move around alot,” said Marshall. “When we finally got stable, I started to act out in unhealthy ways (stealing, telling lies) but as I got older I realized that I gained nothing from doing those things. I started to better myself with my art and creativity. Now I see that is paying off.”

March Children Events at Jonesboro Branch

 

March Teen’s n Tween’s Events at Jonesboro Branch

March Schedule of Events at Jonesboro Branch

MARCH BOOKMOBILE SCHEDULE

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Whether it’s football, baseball, basketball, or corn hole, records are made to be broken. It’s not every day that a person gets the opportunity to set or break a record of any kind. It usually means the person setting the new record has played a particular sport for a long time. He or she has put in many hours of practice and dedicated themselves to being the best. No matter how big the record is, the day will come when it will be broken.

In 1932 the world record largemouth bass of 22.4 lbs. was caught in Georgia’s Lake Montgomery by George Perry which still stands today! This record has stood for over 90 years! But, in 2009 a Japanese angler by the name of Manabu Kurita caught a 22.5 lb. bass in Lake Biwa in Japan. Based on simple math, you would think this would be a new world record by 1 ounce. Hold on, there’s a rule with IGFA (International Game Fish Association) which certifies all fishing world records, states that to be a new world record of any kind, the fish must weigh at least two ounces more than the previous record. But IGFA did give him credit for tying the world record catch.

Now let’s look at what happened on Saturday, February 11th during the Bass Champs Team Trail event on Toledo Bend. Somewhere between 7:00 and 8:00 in the morning, Bill Cook of Houston, Texas set the hook on what he knew was a big bass. After hooking the bass on what’s called an A-Rig (A umbrella-style rig that imitates a small school of baitfish). Bill knew he had a big fish, but had no clue what was about to transpire.

The story goes, Bill had spotted the fish on his forward-facing sonar in about 18 feet of water on the edge of a drop-off. He made a cast in the direction of the bass and let the A-rig sink to the bottom. While watching his bait on his depth finder like a video game, he then engaged the reel and began to slowly retrieve the bait just off the bottom when the big fish came up and bit his lure. After a tough battle, his partner (Ken Burgess) netted the fish. At first glance, they thought the fish might be a 12-pounder which was bigger than any fish Bill had ever caught before. They had no idea that Bill had just caught a new Toledo Bend Lake record of 15.67 lbs. until they hit the scales during the weigh-in that afternoon.

The funny part of this story is that the weekend before in a MLF BFL tournament, his co-angler partner (Michael Fagan) caught an 11-pounder off this same spot on an A-rig along with a 6.14 lb. bass to finish 2nd on the co-angler side of this event. The co-angler asked Bill if he had an A-rig tied on? Bill, thinking, he had one rigged up in his rod locker, opened the locker only to discover he had left that rod with the A-rig in his garage! But he made sure he had it in the boat for the Bass Champs event the next week and as they say, the rest is history!

The previous record of 15.32 caught by Eric Weems had stood for 22 years. Bill Cook is no stranger to the waters of Toledo Bend and has fished this body of water for over 30 years. He’s had a lot of success in tournament circuits like the BFLs, Toyota Series, and team trails. Bill is one of those anglers, you hope to be paired up with if you’re fishing as a co-angler in any event. He’s not only an excellent angler but an even better person.

No one is more deserving of a record like this than Bill Cook, and I along with a lot of other anglers hope his record catch stands for a long time! Unless the fishing Gods shine down on me with such an opportunity! Till next time, good luck, good fishing, and don’t forget to set the hook! You never know, it just might be a new record!

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The Jonesboro-Hodge Elementary School would like to recognize even more outstanding stakeholders. Presented are the Teacher of the Month Mary Bozeman, Support Staff Employee of the Month Miranda Duncan, and Student of the Month Ava Kohler.

Mrs. Bozeman’s tireless work ethic and can do attitude exemplify what it means to be a teacher at Jonesboro Hodge Elementary.  She works over time without compensation to ensure that our students get the her best and that each has a chance to be successful. She embodies the PAWS mantra in mind body spirit and most importantly action!

Our support staff employee of the month Miranda Duncan would “Second That Emotion” to quote one of the terrific songs you might catch her performing as in addition to being a top notch educator, Ms. Duncan is a top notch singer. Just the same, Ms. Duncan puts the children first and works diligently and fruitfully to foster the education of some of the most at risk youths.

Last and certainly not least is Student of the Month, Ava Kohler, who is a Pre-Kindergartner at J-HES. Ava goes above and beyond and looks out for her fellow students. Ava was recognized not only by her teachers but her peers. Ava epitomizes the PAWS mantra:
P prepare yourself
A act respectfully
W work together
S safety first

Jonesboro Hodge Elementary is so lucky and blessed to have each of these young ladies as stakeholders in our school and on behalf of the Parent Teacher Organization and the PBIS team we would like to extend our heartfelt thanks and appreciation for each of them and their respective service.

J-HES completes first basketball season

No matter what else comes behind, there is only one first. If nothing else, that is what the boys and girls as well as their coaches will take from their recently completed season. They were the first basketball teams to represent Jonesboro-Hodge Elementary School.

For girls coach Kyana Jackson the opportunity to coach the girls was extra special and  something that she will always remember.

“Its really a lot I could say about my girls, but I really want to thank their parents for allowing me to coach them basketball and teach them life skills that they can now take into the next chapter of their life,” quoted Jackson on her Facebook page.  “They helped me make history into becoming the first to coach at JHES. They also allowed me to be raw and uncut which is what this generation needs because they are our future. We had a great first season and they fought hard every game. I know that they will go do great things and make me proud.”

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I saw a highway sign the other day that warned, “Mud on Road.”

Have we become so elegant that our vehicles can’t stand a little dirt? What are we to do about this mud? Should we slow down for the mud? Should we detour around the mud? Should we return home until a later date when there is no mud on the road? I really want to do the right thing as regards the mud? The ironic thing is that driving on that part of the highway, I encountered no mud on the road.

I know that some person in some office in Baton Rouge decided the state needed to purchase that sign and there are mud rules for having that sign posted on the road. I am a quite sure we pay someone for determining if enough mud is on the road to have the sign posted. This is the same mentality that demands we post signs before bridges in Louisiana that warn us that “bridges and over passes might have ice on them.” We paid zillions of dollars for those signs that are used “once in a blue icy moon.”

We live in a world of warning signs. There are so many of them on the road now that we can become distracted from our driving by reading the signs on the road that warn us to keep our eyes on the road. Have you noticed all the warning lights in your new vehicles? It is amazing we get into any trouble; we have been thoroughly warned in all areas of life.

God has given us only 10 warning signs. They are very gracious words of life. The Ten Commandments keep us out of trouble. They keep us from falling off the edge.

You know, when you are walking along the edge of a cliff and you see a sign that reads, “Don’t get close to the edge.” If you ignore the sign and walk over to the edge of the cliff and fall off, you have not broken the law, you have proven the law of gravity to be correct.

God graciously warns us about actions that will cause trouble for us; the 10 commandments are our “rules for the road.”

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The Jonesboro-Hodge High School Lady Tigers Softball Team had an exciting weekend highlighted by the opportunity to attend the Louisiana Tech Lady Techsters softball tournament.

“LA Tech sponsored the tickets for us,” said JHHS head coach Matthew Pearce. “They gave us sharpies and programs etc. It was great. Our Lady Tigers got a chance to meet the LA Tech Softball Team and got their autographs.”

Following the game, the coaching staff and players was treated to pizza at Cook Town Park

“We thoroughly enjoyed spending time with the players and their families,” reflected Pearce. “The girls enjoyed themselves and learned something too! It was great bonding time! For some of the girls, it was first college game, and they learned a lot. They had great takeaways.”

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – On March 1st, Congresswoman Julia Letlow, Ph.D. (LA-05) introduced H.R. 5, the Parents Bill of Rights Act. With 73 Republican co-sponsors, Letlow’s bill seeks to put in place concrete legal protections that will ensure parents always have a seat at the table when it comes to their child’s education.

The legislation is built on five, common-sense principles.
Parents have the right to know what their children are being taught.
Parents have the right to be heard.
Parents have the right to see the school budget and spending.
Parents have the right to protect their child’s privacy.
Parents have the right to keep their children safe.

“As a mom of two and a former educator, I believe for a child to succeed, they need families and schools to work together as partners throughout the learning process,” Letlow said.

“I commend Congresswoman Letlow’s leadership in recognizing the parent’s importance in their child’s education. Children belong to their parents and it’s essential to codify these undeniable rights,” said Dr. Cade Brumley, Louisiana State Superintendent of Education.

For a breakdown of the bill from the House Committee on Education and Workforce, click HERE.

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You Have My Word

“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen (Hebrews 11:1 NKJV).”

Faith is belief. The heroes of faith are listed in Hebrews Chapter 11.

‘I promise; you have my word.’

Maybe you’re old enough to remember when a man’s (or woman’s) word was their bond. Many business agreements and transactions were sealed with a promise and a firm handshake.

The promise was as good as the word of commitment.

Jesus is the Word.

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God (John 1:1-2 NKJV).”

God has His word to back up each and every promise.

Faith is belief; it has weight, substance.

It’s not wishful thinking; hoping that we can trust what God has said to be true.

Faith is the assurance that what the LORD has said is always true.

He is the truth.

“Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me (John 14:6 NKJV).”

Life is not hopeless!

“For whatever things were written before were written for our learning, that we through the patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope (Romans 15:4 NKJV).”

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Let’s Get Vaccinated! That is the message the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) is trying to convey to the residents across the state. To help make that possible LDH Region 8, of which Jackson Parish is a part, has scheduled dates for free Covid-19, Flu and Monkeypox vaccinations in each parish of the region this week. The Jackson Parish Health Unit, located at 228 Bond St. in Jonesboro, will be giving vaccinations Monday – Friday (March 6-10) during times of 8am-4:30pm. Appointments are suggested, but not necessary. To schedule an appointment call (318) 259 – 6601.

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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

Sales Position: Globe Life Insurance is searching for a 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 an 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 or Barbara Johnson at (318) 450-5561.

 

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.

 

 

Chris D. Blalock, Jr.
November 18, 1949-February 23, 2023

Chris was born November 18, 1949 in Hodge, LA to Elaine and Drue Blalock, and passed away peacefully with his children at his bedside on February 23, 2023, at Glenwood Regional Medical Center.

Chris was a graduate of Jonesboro Hodge High School-Class of 1967 and a 1971 graduate of Louisiana Tech with a degree in Horticulture. After 34 years of service to the Louisiana Department of Agriculture, Chris retired to pursue his love of the great outdoors. Whether it be fishing at the family pond, traveling with his children to the beach, watching LSU football, or just tending to his numerous plants he had acquired over the years. Chris was a kind and quiet man with a big heart. The loves of his life were his three children.

Chris is preceded in death by his father, Chris “Drue” Blalock, Sr. He is survived by his loving children; Aaron Blalock of Jonesboro, Lauren Mathews(James) of Dodson, and Alison Blalock of Quitman; his mother Elaine Turner of Jonesboro; his sister Lanie Walden of Bossier; his brother Steve Blalock of Bossier, and two grandchildren, Anslie Blalock and Luke Mathews.

A memorial service was held on Saturday, March 4th at the Jimmie Davis Tabernacle in Quitman under the direction of Paradise Funeral Home in Jonesboro.  

Kenneth Dale “Kenny” Strozier
September 19, 1950 – March 2, 2023

Funeral services for Mr. Kenneth Dale “Kenny” Strozier, age 72 of Ruston, LA will be held at 2:00 PM, Monday, March 6, 2023 at Owens Memorial Chapel Funeral Home in Ruston with Rev. Dana Thrash officiating. Burial will follow in the Wesley Chapel Cemetery in Ruston under the direction of Owens Memorial Chapel Funeral Home of Ruston.

Kenny was born September 19, 1950 in Jonesboro, LA to Lucille and W.R. Strozier and passed away March 2, 2023 in Ruston. He was a member of Wesley Chapel Methodist Church. Kenny graduated from Ruston High School in 1969. He attended and graduated from the Naval Training Center in Orlando, FL in 1972. Kenny served his country during the Vietnam War on the USS Meredith DD-890 as a Seaman Apprentice in the Mediterranean. He remained proud of his time in the Navy and had a deep devotion to his country. After his service, Kenny spent the majority of his career self-employed in the mobile home business. He was often referred to as “STRO MAN” to those who knew him. His personality was big, and it was unlikely to forget STRO MAN once you spent time with him. His son Kenny Wayne recalls hearing customers laugh out loud many times when working on their mobile home. Kenny loved the outdoors and spending time deer and turkey hunting, golfing and fishing with his brothers. He was preceded in death by his wife Diane Johnson Strozier and his parents Lucille and W.R. Strozier.

Kenny is survived by his son Kenny Wayne Strozier of Ruston; siblings: Samuel D. Strozier and wife Tami of Ruston, John D. Strozier and wife Becky of Ruston, Sharon L. and husband Harold Ray Parnell of Choudrant, LA and Rusty Strozier and wife Angela of Homer, LA; and a host of family and friends.

Serving as pallbearers will be Kevin “Squirrel” Tilley, Shane Strozier, Craig Strozier, Ty Strozier, Jeff Bradford and Chad Tolar. Honorary pallbearers are Eddie Colvin, Mike Colvin, Lavelle Singleton and Nicky McCullin.

Visitation will be held from 5:00-7:00 PM, Sunday, March 5, 2023 at the funeral home.

Christine Virginia Anderson Jenkins
May 21, 1940 – February 22, 2023

Christine Virginia Anderson Jenkins 82, known to many as “Christy Luv”, Grandma, and Aunt Christine passed away peacefully surrounded by family, Wednesday, February 22, 2023.

Christine was born on May 21, 1940 to the late Mowitt Anderson and Lessie Jackson Anderson. She was the only girl of seven children. She loved growing up in the country, but she hated taking care of the chickens. She often told the story of being chased by the mean rooster and preferred spending time with her aunts cooking. Christine was a dedicated member of the St Paul Baptist Church and actively served as an Usher and Choir member (president).

She attended Shady Grove High School (Class of 1960) and Grambling State University. She was employed with the Bienville Parish School Board for many years and inspired many children with the famous finger pointing. She loved her Bienville High School Bobcats as you can see today her theme colors are well represented. She was a true Bienville High School Bobcat.

Christine was a wonderful sister, wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother and aunt. She united into Holy matrimony to Morgan Ray Jenkins with this Union they combined their families. Now they are reunited in the presence of God.

Five brothers preceded her in death: John Ed Jackson, Robert Gaines, John Anderson Sr., Morlee Anderson and Cleauthur Anderson, also two stepdaughters Tomeaka Jenkins and Angela Martin.

She leaves to reflect on her fondest memories: her son Gregory Anderson (Vickie) of Jonesboro, Louisiana; her daughter Vickie Jenkins of Jonesboro, Louisiana; step daughters: Lawanda Traxler (Preston) and Brenda Mallard both of Jonesboro, Louisiana; brother Cleophus Anderson (Rose) of Ruston, Louisiana; grandchildren: Shanda Burks (Steve), Phillip Gregory Anderson, Kristen Jenkins, Victoria Jenkins, Jack Williams Jr, Jacqueline Williams, Horace Lee, Steve Lee, Orlando Jenkins, Krystle Williams, Landon Jenkins, Shareda Jenkins, Rodney (Angela) Jenkins, Nalalei Nagawo, Karri Traxler, Kevin Traxler, Joshua Traxler and Rozetta Clark; 15 great grandchildren, and a host of brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews and cousins. She also leaves a special friend Neomia Underwood and a special sister Willene Davis (Eliza).

Funeral services were held on Saturday, March 4th at Sandhill Baptist Church in Quitman. 

Johnny Redge Culpepper
May 24, 1951 – February 27, 2023

Johnny Redge Culpepper passed away on Monday, February 27, 2023 in Ruston, Louisiana. He was 71. Johnny is survived by his wife, Penny (Barber) Culpepper; numerous cousins, brothers and sisters in-law; and other relatives and friends.

Johnny was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Wyatt and Mary Sue (Watts) Culpepper; brother, Gary Culpepper; and sister, Gloria Culpepper.

Johnny graduated from Weston High School and attended Huey P. Long Trade School in Winnfield where he became a certified welder. He retired from Entergy (Louisiana Power and Light) after twenty years of service.

He was an enthusiastic squirrel hunter and loved pond fishing with his wife, Penny. They raised cattle, horses, donkeys and chickens on their farm on Gladway Road. Johnny was an avid collector of all sorts of tools, and had amassed an extensive collection over the years.

The funeral service was officiated by Bro. Glen Nash on Saturday, March 4th in the Southern-Edmonds Chapel in Jonesboro. Burial followed at Ebenezer Baptist Church Cemetery in Weston, Louisiana.

Serving the family as pallbearers were Eddie Willis, Cade Smith, Mac Smith, Lance Ledford, Mitch Nunn, Stanley McKaskle. Honorary Pallbearer was Little John Watts.

John Webster Rogers
June 25, 1945 – February 28, 2023

John Webster “Webb” Rodgers was born in Jigger, Louisiana on June 25, 1945 to Veldon and Winnie Rodgers. He passed away on February 28, 2023 at his residence in Jonesboro, Louisiana.

“Webb” attended school in Franklin Parish where he was a graduate of Fort Necessity High School. He was entrepreneur, and a jack of all trades. “Webb” and Janice opened Pawn Shop in Jonesboro, LA in 1999 and later turned into a flea market until his retirement.

“Webb” served in the United States Marine Corps from 1964-68. During that time, he served in Vietnam for (18) months.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Veldon and Winnie Rodgers; brother, L. V. Rodgers, sisters, Edith Hughey and Julia Sevilla Hill.

He is survived by his wife Janice Searcy Rodgers; children: Darla Bass (T. J), Bill Rodgers (Tracey), Kane Searcy (Melissa); grandchildren: Joli Rodgers, Jacob Rector, Caroline Rodgers, and Samantha Searcy; brother Tim Rodgers of Chase, LA; brother-in-law Steve Hill; lifelong friend Ronald Camp (Melba); a very special nephew Terry Raynes of Hessmer, LA; bonus grandchildren: Braydon, Bailey, Parker, and Pierson Brown; several nieces and nephews, and many special friends from Franklin Parish. Last but not least our very best friend Pam Brown.

Rodgers Celebration of Life was held on Friday, March 3rd at Paradise Funeral Home in Jonesboro. Interment followed at Northeast Louisiana Veterans Cemetery in Rayville, LA.

 

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The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) announced on February 23rd that 21 projects around the state received bids recently. Seventeen contractors presented apparent low bids totaling $87.9 million.

Included in the extensive roadway and infrastructure improvement plan are Milling, patching, and drainage projects on LA Hwy 155, LA Hwy 148, and LA Hwy 499 in Jackson Parish. Total bid amount on all three comes to $2,119,567.28. 

“We’re starting 2023 with quite a few infrastructure improvements throughout Louisiana,” said DOTD Secretary Shawn D. Wilson, Ph.D. “This letting includes a lot of much-needed roadway rehabilitation projects that will certainly translate into a smoother ride for those that travel these corridors. These projects will benefit our residents and visitors, as well as the local contractors that will do the work.”

Additional projects slated for north Louisiana and accepted bid amount 

(1) Interim repair of Hearne Avenue Bridge on LA 3094 in Caddo Parish: $297,000.00
(2) Milling, patching, and drainage on LA 120 between Sabine Parish line and LA 6 in Natchitoches Parish: $10,781,403.7
(3) Milling, paving, and drainage on LA 516 between U.S. 371 and LA 792 in Bienville Parish: $2,872,734.70
(4) Milling, patching, overlay, striping, and drainage on LA 17 between Richland Parish line and 1.5 miles north of Darnell in West Carroll Parish: $6,876,019.15
(5) Milling, patching, overlay, and signalization on U.S. 80 between LA 617 and Ouachita River Bridge in Ouachita Parish: $5,531,934.08
(6) Multiuse path along Meridian Speedway Railroad in Lincoln Parish: $2,935,327.00

When bids for projects are received, an “apparent low bidder” is identified, although the process of actually finalizing and awarding the contract takes about 30 days. Bid prices deemed outside of a certain range or exceeding the project budget typically trigger a more extensive evaluation. DOTD will continue to monitor increases in bid prices related to supply chain and workforce issues. After a review, DOTD may opt to have the project re-bid.

Construction projects are prioritized by road/bridge condition, urgency of improvements, type/volume of traffic, crash records, unforeseeable emergencies that caused damage, and several other factors.

For more information about these projects, please visit www.dotd.la.gov.

 

 

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A stirring upset bid by Jonesboro-Hodge fell just short as Franklin High made a shot with only two seconds left to play to escape with 45-43 a regional round victory. With the victory Franklin improves to 19-5 and advances to the LHSAA Division IV quarterfinals. The heart breaking defeat ends the Tigers season at 10-17.

Turn about fair play! Local fans will soon not forget the incredible 29-28 last second victory JHHS pulled off in the 2021 Class 2A quarterfinals in football where the Tigers trailed 28-15 with under three minutes to play. This time it was the favored, “non-select” #3 ranked team that produced the improbable rally.

First it was the Tigers who had stunned the raucus home crowd with a rally of their own. JHHS was down 37-31 heading into the fourth quarter. Senior guard Ajay Tew then put the Tigers on his back to score 7 points in the final frame and along with a spirited defensive effort led JHHS to outscore Franklin 12-4 to give J-H a 43-41 lead with only around 40 seconds left to play. 

Proving deserving of their lofty ranking, the Hornets refused to fold and made a basket to tie the score. This set up what turned out to be the decisive play in the game as Franklin employed a full court pressure defense and forced a turnover on the inbounds play with 30 seconds remaining. For 28 seconds Franklin patiently maneuvered the ball around before stinging the Tigers with a basket with just two second left setting off a wild celebration. 

Tew closed out his JHHS career by scoring 15 points to lead the Tigers in scoring. Zion Gray and Jarrius Lumpkin, who made three in the final frame, chipped in with eight each followed by 7 from Savantez Phillips. Cameron Leonard tallied three and ZaMarion Palmer hit a basket to round out the JHHS scoring. Jayshawn Johnson scored 14 to lead Franklin, who advances to the Division IV quarterfinals where they will play another District 3-2A school in #6 Lakeview. 

TEAM	1	2	3	4	TOTAL
#19 JHHS (10-17)	12	9	10	12	43
#3 Franklin (19-5)	12	12	13	8	45

Top ranked Zwolle runs past Quitman 86-61

Logan Ponder scored a season-high 25 points and Brayden Smith tied his season-best with 13 but top-ranked Zwolle simply had too much firepower for the short-handed Wolverines to overcome. The second-round defeat ends Quitman’s season with an 18-13 record while Zwolle improves to 31-2 and moves on to face #8 Choudrant in the Division V “non-select” quarterfinals. 

The high-scoring Hawks came out firing on all cylinders to take a commanding 29-13 advantage over the Wolverines playing without post player Blake Carter, who suffered a head injury in a baseball game over the past weekend. Quitman played inspired ball to start the second quarter and outscored the Hawks 13-5 to narrow the deficit to nine points but Zwolle made a late run to go into the break with a 44-31 advantage.

Five straight points by Ponder in the early stages of the third quarter brought Quitman to within 48-40 but that was as close as the Wolverines would come as Zwolle extended the lead to 65-45 at the end of three and coasted home with the victory. 

TEAM	1	2	3	4	TOTAL
#16 Quitman (18-13)	14	17	14	16	61
#1 Zwolle (31-2)	29	15	21	21	86

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Maggie Guyotte, Karley Huckaby, and Cali Deal all homered in the top of the sixth inning to lift Quitman to a stunning 9-7 victory over Class 5A Airline High School. The victory snapped a four-game slide by the Lady Wolverines who improved to 2-4 on the year and ended a four-game winning streak for the Lady Vikings who fell to 7-3 on the season. 

With Airline leading 3-1 after five innings of play, Guyotte opened the top of the sixth by lining a 1-2 pitch over the right field fence to close the gap to one. A walk to Maddie Brymer and a Madeline Vail single followed. Huckabee then put Quitman ahead 5-3 when she blasted a clutch two-out, three-run shot to right. Marley Bell then drew a walk and Madison Chaplin got hit by a pitch setting up a Cali Deal smash to left for the third dinger of the inning to put Quitman up 8-3.

Back-to-back errors by the Lady Wolverines followed by three straight two-out hits by Airline, which included a two-run triple narrowed the margin to 8-7. Quitman got an insurance run when Skylar Hall scored on a two-out Airline error. 

In her first game back after missing three over the past weekend due to an injured foot, Deal struck out nine and gave up only one earned run to gain her second victory of the season. 

TEAM	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	R	H	E
Quitman (2-4)	0	0	0	0	1	7	1	9	9	5
Airline (7-3)	0	0	0	1	2	4	0	7	7	1

Losing skid reaches four straight for the Wolves

The early season “Murderer’s Row” of higher classification, highly ranked teams that Weston has faced has led to two more losses, albeit close defeats. On Monday the Wolves fell 6-3 to D’Arbonne Woods, ranked 9th among “select” Division III schools, followed by a narrow 5-3 loss to Class 5A Natchitoches Central on Tuesday, who boasts a 5-1 record and is ranked #7 in Division I “non-select” poll.  

DWC 6 Weston 3: Both teams got 8 hits on the day but a sixth run fourth inning reversed an early 2-0 Weston lead. Colton Blundell, Tait Henderson, and Cole Tolar, whose double was the only extra-base hit for the Wolves, all got two hits on the day. Cooper Delaney, who absorbed the loss on the mound, got a hit as did Layton Garrett. Blaine Graham, Blundell, and Sawyer Watkins, who walked twice score the Wolves runs. Henderson, who reached base in all four at-bats knocked in a pair of runs.

TEAM	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	R	H	E
DWCS (3-1)	0	0	0	6	0	0	0	6	8	1
Weston (2-4)	1	1	0	0	0	1	0	3	8	1

Natchitoches-Central 5 Weston 3: Cooper Delaney, Tait Henderson and Braden Theriot all drove in runs in Weston’s three run sixth inning but single runs by in five of the six innings Natchitoches Central came to bat was to much to overcome. Bryce Zehr got two of Weston’s five singles in the game and scored as did Blaine Graham and Tait Henderson. Tayt Culpepper allowed only three hits and struck out five but absorbed the loss for the Wolves to fall to 1-1 on the year. 

TEAM	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	R	H	E
Weston (2-4)	0	0	0	0	0	3	0	3	5	0
NCHS (5-1)	1	0	1	1	1	1	x	5	3	1

Lady Tigers fall to Union

Pam Cribbs scored in the top of the first to give JHHS their first lead of the year. Alaina Ashcraft followed with a run in the second and both Zoie Anderson and Alivia Anderson scored runs in the third. It was far from enough though as Union scored 12 in the first and 8 more in the second to take a 20-4 victory. The Lady Farmers improved to 3-1 on the year, while JHHS fell to 0-2.

 

Upcoming Schedule

Weekends are made for tournaments. At least that is the case for Quitman and Weston, who hope that their baseball and softball games this Thursday thru Saturday are more favorable than those of last weekend. 

In baseball, the Wolves will play in the Altick Tourney with games, slated for Thursday, Friday and Saturday. A contest against Crossett High on the Ouachita High field gets things started at 7:00pm on March 2nd followed by a 5:30 pm Friday matchup against Stanley at Cedar Creek and playing Cedar Creek on their home field at 5:30pm on Saturday. Quitman will play in the Grant Tourney with opponents and game times are to be announced. 

The Lady Wolverines travel south to take part in the Acadiana Tourney where they will play Eunice on Friday at 6:30pm and then take on Opelousas Catholic at 11:00am and Holden at 3:00pm on Saturday.  Weston will host D’Arbonne Woods at 3:30 pm on Thursday at the JPRD and then travel to Choudrant to play in their tourney Friday and Saturday with games and times to be announced. Jonesboro-Hodge plays a single game at Montgomery with the first place scheduled for 5:30pm on Thursday. 

 

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The selections of the Student-Athletes of the Week at Jonesboro-Hodge, Quitman, and Weston High School for February 26th – March 4th have been announced. Chosen by select members of the faculty and staff from each school, the weekly honorees earn the award by best exemplifying what it means to be a true student-athlete through academic achievement and athletic accomplishment. Each recipient not only receives public recognition but also is given a commemorative T-Shirt by the Jackson Parish Hospital, which sponsors the weekly award. 

Student-Athlete of the Week

Jacie Ledford (11th Grade) – Varsity Softball player at WHS.

John Hasley (11th Grade) – Varsity Baseball player at QHS.

Trey Trosclair (9th Grade) – Varsity Baaseball player at JHHS.

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Game results from February 25th

5&6 Division

Suns 34 Bulls 7:
Suns scoring: Kaden Blewer 13, Ashton Anderson 12, Kassidy Loyd 4, Caylee Mauthe 2, Willow Tingle 2, Leia Green 1
Bulls Scoring: Harper McBride 2, John Walker 1, Sebastian Garrett 1, Eva Martin 1, Pistol McCurdy 1, Mitchell Osborne 1

Bucks 16 Lakers 14:
Bucks scoring: D J Hudson 4, Briggs Craighead 3, Bryce Martin 3, Cole Burton 1, Harper Gandy 1, Londyn Tilley 1, Koltyn Donaldson 1, Jacob Patton 1, Starr Bradley 1
Lakers scoring: Jace Watkins 5, Kadon Graves 2, Aceon Calahan 2, Kase Mathews 2, Emmett Thomas 2, MJ Harrell 1

Clippers 25 Warriors 23
Clippers scoring: Levi Norred 18, Ryker Ingram 2, Lamar Martin 2, Jayce Linton 2, Tyler Newton 1, 
Warriors scoring: Brennon Otwell 6, Samuel Jones 6, Oliver Lee 4, Duke Henderson 1, Crew Tidwell 1, Laurel Smith 1, Braxley Tucker 1, Oliver Lee 1, Uriah Hall 1, Eliza  Mae-Leigh Jackson 1

Shooting Stars (scored 10 points or more): Levi Norred 18, Kaden Blewer 13, Ashton Anderson 12

7-8 Girls Divison

Liberty 13 Stars 12
Liberty scoring: Carrington Bond 6, Cadie Conn 4, Ryleigh Puffer 1, Kylee Allen 1, Brooklyn Carpenter 1
Stars scoring: Isabell Morris 5, Charlea Jones 2, Hilary Foster 2, Jersey Kate Corley 2, Jesslyn Williams 1 

Sparks 31 Aces 17
Sparks scoring: Isabelle Morris 10, Ainsley Bougues 9, Hadley Garner 8, Adeline Anderson 2, Natalie Sullivan 2
Aces scoring: Savannah Porter 12, Madi Spillman 3, Dally McCurdy 2, Jaicee Watkins 1

Shooting Stars: (scored 10 points or more): Savannah Porter 12, Isabelle Morris 10

7-8 Boys Division

Magic 27 Celtics 21
Magic scoring: Andrew Seymore 14, Carter Greer-Kelly 9, Colton Haney 2, Bradley Keeney 1, Bryce Mauthe 1
Celtics scoring: Brock Craighead 8, Reece Johnson 5, James Lewis 4, Hunter Williams 3, Brandon Laffitte 1

Blazers 34 Grizzlies 30
Blazers scoring: Khree Boston 27, Austin West 2, Jaycob Rogers 2, Trey Wall 1, Jaxon Anderson 1, Stone Anderson 1
Grizzlies scoring: Andrew Edwards 11, Cruz Nomey 9, Kash McAdams 5, Clay Burton 3, Drew Caldwell 1, Landry Garrett 1

Hawks 21 Thunder 18
Hawks scoring: Mason Greer 7, Leland Anderson 5, Carson Knox 3,  Jeremiah Jones 2, Cooper Barnes 2, Cutter Whisonant 1, Jess Potts 1
Thunder scoring: Kutter Blalock 18, Noah Martin 2, Clark Atkins 1

Kings 31 Blazers 14
Kings scoring: Koplen Taylor 14, Jagger Ingram 6, Grant Williams 4, Austin North 2, Taten Hall 2, Thomas Sessions 2,  Isaac Sessions 1
Blazers scoring: Khree Boston 10, Austin West 1, Trey Wall 1, Jaxon Anderson 1, Stone Anderson 1

Shooting Stars: (scored 10 points or more): Khree Boston 27. Kutter Blalock 18, Andrew Seymore 14, Koplen Taylor 14, Andrew Edwards 11, Khree Boston 10

9-10 Girls Divison

Sky 27 Mystics 8
Sky scoring: Sally Kate Keiffer 19, Hannah Aldy 4, Audrey Anderson 2, Brielle Ussery 1, Elliot Savage 1
Mystics: Mallory Malone 8 

Shooting Stars: (scored 10 points or more): Sally Kate Keiffer 19

9-10 Boys Division

Kings 17 Rockets 16
Kings scoring: Bentley Ponder 11, Levi Horsfall 2, Gunner Garrett 2, Nolan Thomas 1, Rhett Emmons 1
Rockets scoring: Tripp McBride 8, Thatcher Savage 4, Jaxon Culpepper 2, Mason Tolar 2

Raptors 20 Grizzlies 17
Raptors scoring: Joseph Gill 10, Carter Sanders 6, Aiden Reed 2, Ryder Diffey 1, Bentley Hall 1
Grizzlies scoring: Jase Tinsley 6, Jack Robinson 5, Kash Gandy 2, Ryder Pardue 2, Elijah Shell 1, Riley Stevenson 1

Rockets 26 Celtics 14
Celtics scoring: Cason Conn 8, Brady Malone 8, Corey Mixon 7, Eli Jones 2, Kaine Stasson 1
Kings scoring: Bentley Ponder 15, Rhett Emmons 4, Levi Horsfall 3, Keshawn Jones 2, Shepard Norred 1

Shooting Stars: (scored 10 points or more): Bentley Ponder 15,  Bentley Ponder 11, Joseph Gill 10          

11-12 Boys Division

Suns 35 Bucks 28
Suns scoring: Joseph Delaney 9, Kaleb Maxwell 9, Leyton Younse 7, Ryder Gray 5, Saveion Mallard 2, Christopher Oncale 2, Jensen Waggoner 1
Bucks scoring: Jameon Jefferson 14, Quantivius Campbell 5, Jaxson Brown 4, Ashton Borland 3, Jake Moak 2

Bulls 35 Spurs 15 
Bulls scoring: Malachi Harris 12, Colton Otwell 10, Luke Rowe 4, Madden McAdams 4, Lucas Leach 3, Tucker Goss 2
Spurs scoring: Eli Henderson 13, Mason Thomas 2

Lakers 40 Mavericks 28
Lakers scoring: Braydon Robinson 18, Jayden Burns 9, Rylan Mauthe 9, Raylon Bradford 3, Noah Spillman 2
Mavericks scoring: Bryce Tolar 11, Kolt Keiffer 6, Cason Rogers 5, Elijah Calloway 3, Lukas Bandy 3 

Bucks 32 Spurs 20
Bucks scoring: Jameon Jefferson 12, Quantivius Campbell 12, Jason McNeil 4, Ashton Borland 2, Jaxson Brown 1, Will St. Clair 1
 Spurs scoring: Eli Henderson 12, Mason Thomas 3, Johnny Caldwell 3, Jacolby Lowe 1, Carson Savana 1

Shooting Stars: (scored 10 points or more): Braydon Robinson 18, Jameon Jefferson 14, Eli Henderson 13, Eli Henderson 12, Malachi Harris 12, Jameon Jefferson 12, Quantivius Campbell 12, Bryce Tolar 11, Colton Otwell 10

11-12 Girls Division

Liberty 14 Dream 13
Liberty scoring: Brooklyn Brown 6, Reese Womack 3,  Landry Horsfall 2,  #6-2, Ella Robinson 1
Dream scoring: Audriana Martin 3, Braelyn Patton 3, Ada-Claire Tidwell 2, Teegan Hall 2, Jana Potts 2, Addison Phares 1

Lynx 20 Sun 14
Lynx scoring: Sophia Kliebert 7, Demie McCurdy 4, Kaylan Hough 3, Allie Robertson 3, Brennna Lamkin 3
Sun scoring: Shacoria Mallard 7, Samone Mallard 6, Gracie Gray 1

Lynx 21 Wings 14
Lynx scoring: Sophia Kliebert 9, Allie Robertson 7, Ella Simonelli 2, Kaylan Hough 1,  Brennna Lamkin 1, Keeley Davis 1
Wings scoring: Avery Dark 6, London Burks 5, Emma Kate Toms 3

13-14 Boys Division

Celtics 45 Kings 39
Celtics scoring: Elijah Jackson 21, Taden Thomas 18, Caden Jackson 4, Ridge Horton 2
Kings scoring: Brody Tidwell 15, Remy Kennard 9,  Brody Halbrook 6, Hunter Donaldson 3, Corbin Ussery 2, Abram Toms 2, Rylan Reynolds 2

Blazers 36 Heat 34 
Blazers scoring: Shane Reed 16, Colby Williams 10, Jack Thomas 8, Aiden Phares 2
Heat scoring: Tyson Burks 16, David Gandy 7, Mathew Odom 5, Hayden Seymore 4, Alex Lewis 2 

Magic 49 Kings 21
Magic scoring: Brayden Martin 21, Cash Ingram 10, Jamarcus Dozier 6, Sanitago Zuniga 6, Hayden LaBorde 4, Braedyn Turner 2
Kings scoring: Brody Tidwell 15, Abram Toms 6

Shooting Stars: (scored 10 points or more): Brayden Martin 21, Elijah Jackson 21, Shane Reed 21, Taden Thomas 18, Tyson Burks 16, Brody Tidwell 15, Brody Tidwell 15, Colby Williams 10, Cash Ingram 10

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The Jackson Parish Legacy League (JPLL) which is held at the Jackson Parish Recreation Department Sports Complex, located at 5254 Hwy 4 East is seeking volunteers to help with league play throughout May.

Games will be held each Monday in May (1,8,15,22 and 29) on Field 3 at 5:30pm.

The JPLL gives athletes (ages 4-18) with physical, developmental, cognitive disabilities, and/or mental exceptionalities the opportunity to compete in a fun-filled environment under volunteer assistance. 

Volunteers should be supportive, compassionate, understanding, encouraging, thoughtful, and considerate offering as much or as little help as the player needs or wants. Sometimes it will be just guidance and positive assistance; sometimes, more physical help will be needed.

If your team, club, or organization would be interested in volunteering, please contact Karie Potts at karie.potts@jpsbschools.us by March 31st. Please include dates you will not be able to volunteer. Regarding team or organization volunteering please include an estimated number of volunteers you expect will assist. 

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When Weston High School lost to Pitkin in the first round of the LHSAA Division V playoffs it looked as if Emma Kate McBride had played her last game as a prep basketball player. Not so fast!

As it turns out, before McBride heads to South Arkansas Community College to continue her playing career, the silky smooth point guard will have the opportunity to represent the East squad at the annual Louisiana High School Coaches Association (LHSCS) All-Star game.

Joining 15 other top senior players in the state, McBride has the distinction of being the only Class B and  “non-select” Division V player in the state selected to the East squad. The Head Coach of the team will be Meredith Graf of Ruston High School. 

The date of the contest and game time is to be announced. 

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BATON ROUGE – Nominations are open for Louisiana Wildlife Federation’s 57th Conservation Achievement Awards, which recognizes those persons and organizations in Louisiana that made outstanding contributions during 2022 to the natural resource welfare and environmental quality of their community, parish and the state.

“Louisiana’s wildlife and natural resources are a gift that we must work to conserve so future generations can enjoy the outdoors as we do today,” said Rebecca Triche, executive director for Louisiana Wildlife Federation. “Recognizing individuals, organizations and businesses for their conservation efforts in Louisiana encourages and promotes wise natural resource management and use.”

Nominations are accepted for conservation achievement in nine award categories:

Professional – given to an individual in a compensated professional capacity that has made a significant contribution to the management, enhancement, or protection of Louisiana’s fish, wildlife, air, water, soil or forest resources, or related recreational opportunities.
Volunteer – awarded to a person acting in a volunteer capacity during the year that has shown outstanding achievement in the management, enhancement, or protection of Louisiana’s fish, wildlife, air, water, soil or forest resources or related recreational opportunities.
Business – this award honors a company, not a person, that has shown significant achievement in pollution abatement, land use planning and management, conservation education/awareness, and habitat stewardship including providing lands for wildlife conservation and public recreation.
Educator – this is awarded to an outstanding conservation educator, either in a professional or volunteer role, whose emphasis has been on teaching students or the public, rather than on research or administration. Examples include instructors of hunter safety and outdoor ethics, as well as teachers of natural sciences, fish and wildlife management, environmental design and management, and various aspects of environmental education.
Elected Official – awarded to a local, state or federal elected official for their achievements around conservation efforts. All Louisiana elected officials, except the Governor, are eligible in this category.
Communications – this is given for the outstanding work by a writer, reporter, radio or TV broadcaster, photographer, artist, cartoonist, radio or TV station, newspaper, website or other publication for increased public awareness around environmental quality and natural resource conservation or has contributed toward the solution of a major conservation problem in Louisiana.
Organization – this recognizes a state or local organization for outstanding conservation achievement in addressing significant natural resource management and environmental quality challenges. Examples of organizations might include but are not limited to civic organizations, environmental groups, sportsmen’s clubs and garden clubs. In special cases where government agencies or institutions have accomplished extraordinary work above and beyond their normal responsibilities, such organizations will be considered for this award.
Youth – this is awarded to an individual youth, 18 years of age or younger, who has demonstrated outstanding leadership and accomplishment in any phase of conservation work.
Youth Organization – this is given to a youth group, with members 18 years of age or younger, who have provided outstanding conservation or related recreational work in addressing significant natural resource management and environmental quality challenges.

Nominations are due on Sunday, April 9, and can be made online at lawildlifefed.org or may be hand-delivered or mailed to Louisiana Wildlife Federation, 8480 Bluebonnet Blvd., Ste. F, Baton Rouge, LA 70810. Submissions with all relevant documents may also be emailed to lwf@lawildlifefed.org.

Award recipients will be honored at a banquet to be held in Baton Rouge.

For more information, call 225-344-6707 or email lwf@lawildlifefed.org.

Established in 1940, Louisiana Wildlife Federation is a statewide nonprofit organization that represents 19 affiliate organizations and more than 8,000 members dedicated to the conservation of Louisiana’s wildlife and natural resources. Louisiana Wildlife Federation is an affiliate of National Wildlife Federation and together forms a powerful network for conservation locally and nationally.

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The Jackson Parish School District announces that three Bus driving jobs are open for next school year. Those interested need to apply at the Jackson Parish School Board Central Office, located at 315 Pershing Hwy. in Jonesboro during regular business hours. 

The following is required before being able to be accepted as an applicant. 
(1) Have a background check done
(2) Take a thirty-hour class about bus driving
(3) Get a Class B CDL Permit
(4) Train for the 3rd party CDL test
(5) Take the CDL test
(6) Upon completion go to the DMV and get a CDL license

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This thing we call life can be a funny dance partner.

A story to illustrate. It’s your story and mine and it’s everyone’s story. Because the day began like any other but …

Life. You never know.

One evening not long ago at all, we were sitting on benches and chairs off the lobby of a big hotel, a very unrehearsed scenario, eating take-out supper off paper plates, at the end of a three-hour bus ride on the way to play baseball games.

Maybe just for moral support, I said that if I acted weird at any point during this trip it was because I’d eaten lunch with my mom and she was having surgery Thursday and all was well but … it was my mom, in her mid-80s, and …

It was my mom.

And that after that I’d visited one of my bosses in the emergency room because at four in the morning, she thought she was having a stroke she was only 50 and the doctors in West Monroe were sending her to Alexandria to a specific neurosurgeon and so I walked in and she started crying and then I started crying and I told her I was crying only because the hospital gown she had on was SO not her color and …

She was scared. Because she didn’t know what was wrong. Nobody knew what was wrong. Legit excuse for tears … I guess mine were just because we didn’t always get along at first, which is fine because it was professional and not personal, but I was scared because she was scared and I have grown fond of her and we all want her to be well.

And then I got a text that one of my hero sports writing brothers was having a surgery that was invasive like Germany invading Poland in 1939 was invasive and …

So, it’s not a good day and no one should be in this pickle it’s just a cross you have to bear because as usual, you are thinking of only yourself…

But … you never know. Because …

Then one of the guys who’d been on the bus — again, we’d been talking for three hours already, just jokes, but now for just a few minutes it was different — said his mom had cancer surgery that week and his niece had just called to say that while all was well so far, the doctors were confused why something wasn’t acting the way it should so …

And then another friend said, well, his dad, one of the great humans in history, had been checked into a nursing home that very morning and was not enamored with it at all but that no one in the family could physically handle this once vibrant and wonderful personality because his mind was going and …

You come to the same conclusion you’ve come to lots of times before. Doesn’t make it easier to accept. But you know it’s a dead solid fact. And that’s this …

Life is difficult. It’s a bear. It’s wonderful — colors and sounds and senses, and who can capture it all? how spectacular it is when it’s all going your way — but you never know what someone is going through. A person can be coaching a baseball game or preparing a sermon or teaching second grade or … you just don’t know. Their mom might be in surgery. Their aging dad might be in a situation he doesn’t understand. Their toddler might have just lost her mom to some tragedy or their salt-of-the-earth grandfather might have just passed away.

So …

Try to make someone smile today. Use your heart parts. Sincere goodwill is our ace in the hole, no matter the storm.

It’s a little thing, but it could be a big thing. For them, but for you too. Make the world a place that’s happier. You can do that.

No matter the cost, it will be worth it. It will come back, bread upon the water.

We need you.

Contact Teddy at teddy@latech.edu or Twitter at @MamaLuvsManning

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The students and staff of Gracepoint Christian Academy in Jonesboro enjoyed a special opportunity to meet the KNOE-TV Channel 8 Weather Team of Sheena Martin and Margo Altshuler on Monday, February 27th. The Weather Team prepared an educational presentation, experiments, and a question & answer session for elementary, junior high, and high school students.

On behalf of the administration and staff of Gracepoint Christian, we are thankful to KNOE 8 Weather for taking time out of their busy day to educate our children about severe weather!

To view more pictures and clips of the visit click here. 

 

 

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Wesley Harris and Jaclyn Tripp (KTAL/KMSS) 

Driving across north Louisiana on U. S. 80 in 1930, tourists using the official state highway map saw a spot marked the “highest point” in the state.

If they were tempted to check it out, they wouldn’t have turned south at Arcadia toward Driskill Mountain. Instead, they would have followed the map and ended up in Claiborne Parish, in a little place called Athens.

While Driskill Mountain in Bienville Parish is now the undisputed highest point in Louisiana, well up into the 20th century that honor was claimed by various sites across the northern reaches of the state.

The old state highway map seemed to provide official recognition of the Claiborne Parish site as the highest. A Shreveport Times article of the same year supported the position, too, declaring: “Old Athens, two miles west of the present location, is said to be the highest point in Louisiana.” The map listed the point near Athens at 469 feet, but a number of websites on America’s high points refer to a 505-foot “mountain” on Fire Tower Road north of the original site of Athens.

An 1887 article in the New Orleans Times-Democrat noted the center of Claiborne Parish was the “highest land in Louisiana, averaging over 250 feet above the Gulf, and rising in some places over 600 feet.” While “600 feet” was a bit of an exaggeration, the terrain across the center of Claiborne Parish is among the most uneven in the state.

In 1904, the Times-Democrat answered a reader’s question about the matter and tried to settle the debate by printing Mansfield’s 321 feet as the highest.

Mansfield promoted itself in a 1923 Shreveport Journal, touting its schools, churches, railroads and overall location on the Jefferson Highway were upon the “highest point in elevation in Louisiana.”

Peddling elevation as a selling point found its way into newspaper advertisements. In 1921, the Alexandria Town Talk ran an ad for St. Vincent’s College in Shreveport. The ad for St. Vincent’s made claim to the elevated title, too, stating, “Situated on the highest point of Louisiana amidst stately trees, its location is, undoubtedly, the finest in the state.”

When the Hotel Elgin reopened in Haynesville in 1922, its ad in the Shreveport Times began, “By survey, located on the highest point in the State of Louisiana.”

By the late 1930s, Driskill Mountain was mentioned more often but not named exclusively as the highest point. A note in the Abbeville newspaper in 1937 erred in giving Driskill’s elevation as 369 feet.

In the 1920s, Tandy Giddens, a powerful Shreveport businessman, built a massive home on a high hill on U.S. 80 in Fillmore. Giddens Castle, its odd configuration of a cross between a medieval castle and an army barracks, included a museum of art, antiques, and historical objects.

The castle burned in 1936 and later Hilltop Raceway was built on the knoll, and even later, a motel and Hilltop Catfish Restaurant. Ads for the restaurant claimed patrons could “enjoy Ark-La-Tex’s finest catfish from the highest point in Louisiana.”

Apparently, the official highest point can move—the 1945 state highway map places it west of Haynesville at 400 feet, and the 1960 official map has it at Driskill Mountain. The height of mighty Driskill is lower than the lowest point in Colorado, Kansas, Michigan, Wisconsin, and nine other states.

By the mid-1970s, the status of 535-foot Driskill Mountain as Louisiana’s highest point had been firmly established.

Wesley Harris works as the parish historian for the Claiborne Parish Library in Homer, Louisiana. He researches, writes, and speaks on North Louisiana history. His specialties are Reconstruction Era crime and World War II in north Louisiana.

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