The recent trip back from Arcadia was an enjoyable one for the Jonesboro-Hodge Elementary School boys basketball team as they beat Crawford Elementary by a score of 30-24.
Caiden Jackson scored 14 points to lead J-HES followed by 8 points from Addarren Amos. Brady Malone chipped in with four points while both JaDarrion Allen and Ashton Paggett scored two each.
J-HES will next play on February 1st at Cypress Springs Elementary in Ruston. Tip off is scheduled for 6:00 pm.
A great time was had by all at the 2024 Carnival on Caney Parade that was held at the Jimmie Davis State Park on Saturday. Viewers cheered as the many decorated floats, vehicles and ATV’s went along the parade route while everyone enjoyed the scrumptious meals and beignets served by the Dutch Oven Society. Congratulations goes to Darrel and Allison Ferguson who was declared the winner of the decorating contest!
For more pictures of the Carnival on Caney Parade go to Caney Lake Community Page on Facebook.
After being forced to miss playing last weekend due to water issues in Jonesboro, the Jackson Parish Recreation Department Youth Basketball Leagues resumed play this past Saturday at Jonesboro-Hodge Middle School and Jonesboro Hodge High School. NOTE: Scoring stars for each league are those who had 10 or more points.
Warriors 40 Suns 7
Warriors scoring: Kase Matthews 18, Xavier Jackson 10, Briggs Craighead 4, Emmett Thomas 4, Emma Rowe 2, Eva Martin 1, Landry Evans 1,
Suns scoring: Malakai Lamkin 1, Magnolia Green 1, Kimber Salter 1, Axel Blewer 1, Sebastian Blewer 1, Keegan Blewer 1
Bulls 28 Lakers 16
Bulls scoring: Samuel Jones 10, Duke Henderson 7, Braxley Tucker 5, Laurel Smith 1, Karly Jo Stassen 1, Dawson Otwell 1
Lakers scoring: Bryce Martin 8, Ryker Whitman 2, Pistol McCurdy 1, Skye Bradley 1, Blake Rieson 1, Krewe Blalock 1, Cole Burton 1, T. Bradford 1
Warriors 25 Bucks 12
Warriors scoring: Xavier Jackson 8, Kase Matthews 6, Briggs Craighead 6, Emmett Thomas 3, Emma Rowe 2, Landry Evans 1,
Bucks scoring: Ryker Ingram 4, John Phillip Walker 3, Jasnoor Singh 2, Jayce Linton 1, Jackson Linton 1, Gentry Aldy 1
Shooting Stars: Kase Matthews 18, Xavier Jackson 10, Samuel Jones 10
Aces 21 Stars 18
Aces scoring: Brenleigh 9, Ryleigh 4, Kylee Ann 3, Ava 3, Karli 1, Audrey 1
Stars scoring: Jersey Kate Corely 8, Landrie Watson 4, Dally McCurdy 2, Hillary Foster 2, Ellie Shultz 1, Mercedes Taylor 1
Aces 19 Sparks 18
Aces scoring: Kylee Ann 9, Ryleigh 3, Karli 3, River Waggoner 2, Ava 2
Sparks scoring: Alaiyah 9, Natalie 4, Leia 1, Kassidy 1, Willow 1, Kendall 1, Jaylee 1, Leia
Hawks 24 Thunder 12
Hawks scoring: Jeremiah Jones 18, Kaden Blewer 2, Beaux Gandy 2, Crew Tidwell 2
Thunder scoring: Tytus Campbell 5, Levi Norred 2, Khaza Cottonham 1, Ashton Anderson 1, Sutton Vail 1, D.J. Hudson 1, Russ Barron 1,
Kings 26 Magic 18
Kings scoring: Karlen Taylor 16, Cutter Whisonant 2, Brennon Otwell 2, Colton Haney 2, Logenn Blewer 2, Grayson Edwards 2
Magic scoring: Ayden Chatman 11, Mayson Terral 5, Jase Watkins 1, Carter Hall 1
Shooting Stars: Jeremiah Jones 18, Karlen Taylor 16, Ayden Chatman 11
Sky 19 Fever 4
Sky scoring: Brelaina Hall 4, Raylie Hall 3, Chloe Maxwell 3, Tyler Barron 2, Khaliya Cash 2, Jaicee Watkins 2, Delilah Hudson 1, Kelsey Shaw 1
Fever scoring: Savannah Porter 3, Brooklyn Keiffer 1
Bobcats 19 Fever 10
Bobcats scoring: Ainsley Bouges 7, Scarlett Parks 6, Adeline Anderson 3, Lizzie Sullivan 2, Charlee Mauthe 1
Fever scoring: Brooklyn Keiffer 4, Lily Tolar 3, Savannah Porter 2, Shelby Johns 1
Jazz 17 Grizzlies 12
Jazz scoring: Jase Tinsley 8, Bentley Hall 3, Cruz Nomey 2, Kaine Stassen 2, James Lewis 1, Thatcher Savage 1
Grizzlies scoring: Andrew Seymore 4, Asher Norred 4, Drew Edwards 2, Brantley Tucker 2
Raptors 30 Rockets 11
Raptors scoring: Jase Reed 7, Caleb Robinson 6, Kutter Blalock 6, Jagger Ingram 4, Carter Kelley 3, Jacob Toms 2, Tucker Williams 2
Rockets scoring: Ryder Jefferson 6, Clay Burton 3, Haiden Jones 1, Cooper Barnes 1
Grizzlies 17 Celtics 13
Grizzlies scoring: Asher Norred 8, Andrew Seymore 5, Drew Edwards 3, Kase Henderson 1
Celtics scoring: R. Williams 4, Bentley Ponder 3, Cason Walker 2, Jace Jackson 2, Mason Greer 2
Liberty 26 Lynx 22
Liberty scoring: Davynee Bearden 7, Klea Blalock 6, Brylee Cuthrell 3, Gabby Edwards 3, Jazzmine Stuckey 3, Brooklyn Johnson 2, Mallory Malone 2
Lynx scoring: Sophia Kliebert 12, Allie Robertson 4, Amelia Staggs 2, Kinleigh Leach 2, Demie McCurdy 1, Aubrey Donaldson 1
Dream 15 Wings 14
Dream scoring: Kate Keiffer 4, Hannah Aldy 4, Rachel Bandy 4, London Burks 3
Wings scoring: Braelyn Patton 5, Bella Caskey 3, Audrina Martin 2, Ada Claire Tidwell 1, Caroline Newton 1, Addison Faulkner 1, Anna Pardue 1
Scoring Stars: Sophia Kliebert 12
Mavericks 31 Spurs 23
Mavericks scoring: Lucas Leach 12, Kaleb Maxwell 9, Jack Robinson 7, #9 – 2, #5 – 1
Spurs scoring: Kyrn Jackson 10, Christopher Oncala 8, Hayden Essmeier 5
Bucks 28 Lakers 23
Bucks scoring: Jayden Burns 15, li Henderson 4, Raylon Bradford 3, Aiden Reed 3, Mason Thomas 2, Dane Clifton 1
Lakers scoring: Jameon Jefferson 7, Cason Cam 6, Campbell 5, Jasen McNeil 2, Tripp McBride 2, Jenson Waggoner 1
Shooting Stars: Jayden Burns 15, Lucas Leach 12, Kyrn Jackson 10
Kings 38 Blazers 10
Kings scoring: Hayden Laborde 8, Caden Jackson 8, Braeyden Turner 8, Mathew Odom 6, Eli Jackson 4, Eli Rowe 2, Kolt Keiffer 2
Blazers scoring: Rodney Williams 6, Lukas Bandy 2, Sam Schut 2
Pelicans 47 Magic 18
Pelicans scoring: Hayden Seymore 12, Kobie Williams 12, Jack Thomas 11, Ayden 5, Gunner Younse 3, Leyton Younse 2, Jayson Brown 2
Magic scoring: Malachi Harris 11, Remy Kennard 3, Ridge Horton 2, Luke Sims 2
Shooting Stars: Hayden Seymore 12, Kobie Williams 12, Jack Thomas 11, Malachi Harris 11
Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church invites those of ages 60 and over to the “We Are Too Blessed To Be Stressed” Movie Day on Monday, January 29th. Start time is scheduled at 2:30 pm at the church located at 1712 Church Street in East Hodge. Come expecting good fellowship and you don’t even have to bring snacks as they will be provided.
Once I was preaching and a wasp landed on my shoulder.
I didn’t see the wasp, nor hear it.
After it landed, it proceeded to walk between my shoulders using the stole I was wearing that Sunday. The choir saw the wasp land. The choir watched the wasp walking on my stole. The choir met, established a quorum, had a discussion, and took a vote. The vote of the choir was to sit there and watch the wasp to see what would happen.
During the discussion it was determined that swatting the wasp off my shoulder would disturb the rhythm of the sermon. It might frighten the preacher. It was further determined that any attempt to remove the wasp might cause the wasp to sting the preacher. I appreciate the compassion of the choir.
They sat and watched the wasp the entire sermon. I’m sure there were follow up conversations about the dangers the wasp posed to the preacher. However, the choir stood firm with their vision statement, “let’s watch and see what happens.”
At the end of the sermon, I asked the congregation to bow in prayer. I bowed my head and heard the wasp fly off. The wasp didn’t want to hang around for the invitation hymn and ten verses of “Just As I Am.”
I know that story because I survived that story. After the service the choir gathered and told me about their deliberations. I told them about hearing the wasp fly off as I bowed my head to pray. We all laughed, and I suppose the wasp lived happily ever after.
A member of that choir has joined the Trinity choir. He called me Sunday afternoon and told me another story.
Seems that Sunday the choir noticed a spider descending from the ceiling of Trinity. If you have been in our sanctuary, you know that was some descent. The spider was to the left of the preacher and was headed toward the pulpit. Again, the choir assembled, a deliberation took place, and it was decided to “watch and see what happens.”
I’m sure the television audience thought that the choir was intensely listening to the sermon. Nope, they were watching the itsy-bitsy-spider and wondering if it would tangle with the preacher in mid sermon.
I suppose the spider continued the descent to the floor and I hope the spider is happily exploring other realms of the Trinity sanctuary. The spider may be in the choir loft or perhaps by now the spider is out in the seating area of the sanctuary. I have learned from two choirs that maybe I should leave the spider alone and “watch and see what happens.”
I’ll bet people at Trinity will pay extra attention to their environment on Sunday.
We default to jumping into the middle of something, solving every problem, and meeting every challenge that comes our way. Perhaps a better strategy is to take our hands off a situation, sit back, and “watch and see what the Lord will do.”
That is called faith.
Mark your calendars for Friday, February 2nd, for the annual Donkey Basketball game at Saline High School. Don’t miss one of the most enjoyable family times of the year that will begin at 7:00 pm.
Keep your eye on the lookout for discounted advance tickets. Kiss the Donkey Challenge will be back & the first 150 kids under 12 get FREE donkey rides before the Championship Game! Don’t miss out on this one night of epic fun!
After what we have gone through weather-wise over the past two weeks, I might have an inkling of why all this has come to be.
Could it be something called El Nino or La Nina? I don’t have a clue what these weather phenomena is all about but I’m searching for something – anything – to explain why we here in the south have taken such a beating from Mother Nature.
It all started last summer. As April showers brought May flowers, the clouds which up to then had been friendly, blessed us with sufficient rains to get things going. Tomatoes were up and growing crimson and plump, purple hull peas were sprouting and we could hardly wait to pick a mess, cook a pot of them and serve them up with a pone of homemade cornbread and slices of those beautiful tomatoes.
Then, just like that, Mother Nature shut off the spigot. Days turned into weeks that turned into months without rain. We watched our ponds slowly shrink in size until all that was left was dry cracks as the pond that was once home to crawfish and turtles and frogs and minnows. Cows in the pasture would walk by, give what was once their water hole a longing look, swish tails at horseflies and sadly walk away.
We had a neighborhood red tailed hawk that spent much of the day on the power line
overlooking the pond, looking for a morsel. As the pond disappeared, so did the hawk. Why hang around to sit and look at cracked ground?
Finally, the skies became more friendly and gave us a few showers. The pond bottom
became a puddle; dry cracks thirstily lapping up the scant few gallons of precious liquid.
Things started looking up somewhat in November and December giving us a false hope that whatever Mother Nature had against us was beginning to wane just a bit.
Then came January. We welcomed the New Year clinging to the hope that finally things would start to settle out and return to a semblance of normalcy. The weatherman began talking about an event due the middle of the month that caused us a bit of concern. An artic front was due around January 14 with the forecast of not only frigid temperatures but with the possibility of frozen precipitation.
No problem, we were duped into thinking. It’s January and a little snow might provide a bit of excitement and would probably be gone the next day. Boy was that a misnomer. We went to bed Sunday night with falling temperatures and by daybreak Monday, we were wrapped up with snow, sleet and ice with a temperature in the 20s and heading south.
We became prisoners to the elements; there was no way we could leave the house and that became a growing concern as I watched the level in my jug of milk sink lower and lower. We were down to eating the last end pieces of the remaining loaf of bread. The heating unit never seemed to shut off and take a breath before kicking on again. I might have to float a loan to pay my utility bill.
Finally, things thawed enough to drive the road to the grocery store to replenish the milk and bread. By week’s end, we could at least function a bit better. Things looking much better, right?
Forecast for this week said otherwise. All the rain we missed last summer was scheduled to dump on us all at one time with heavy rain scheduled all week long.
I found a statement on-line that says it better than I can.
“It’s like Mother Nature is mad and keeps storming out, then comes back yelling, ‘And
one more thing’!”
CANEY LAKE – Some really nice bass are being caught on deep diving crank baits and soft plastics in the creeks and channels. Some yellow bass are being caught on jigging spoons. Crappie have been best around the deeper tops on shiners or jigs and they have moved to deep water out from the dam. For information contact Caney Lake Landing at 259-6649, Hooks Marina at 249-2347, Terzia Tackle at 278-4498 or the Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707.
BLACK BAYOU – No report. Contact Honey Hole Tackle Shop 323-8707 for latest information.
BUSSEY BRAKE – Crappie fishing has been best fishing the deep tops with shiners and jigs. Bass fishing has been good with some nice ones caught on spinners and flipping jigs around the brush and wind rows. For latest information, contact the Honey Hole at 323-8707.
OUACHITA RIVER – Water is rising and fishing is slow. For latest information, contact the Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707.
LAKE D’ARBONNE –The crappie fishing continues to be good in the channels and out from the dam in deep water. Shiners and jigs are taking some good fish. Bass are moving to the secondary points and in deep water out from the dam. Soft plastics are picking up some nice fish. For latest information, call Anderson Sport Center at 368-9669 or Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707.
LAKE CLAIBORNE – The lake has been down but should start to rise with all this rain this week. Crappie are along the tree lines and are moving to the deep water out from the dam with shiners or jigs picking up some nice slabs. A good many barfish are being caught along with the crappie. Bass fishing has fair this week as they too are starting to move deep. For latest information, call Kel’s Cove at 927-2264 or Terzia Tackle at 278-4498.
LAKE POVERTY POINT – Crappie fishing is slow to fair while others are slow. For latest reports, call Poverty Point Marina at 318/878-0101.
LAKE YUCATAN – The water is starting to rise and fishing is slow. Commercial fishermen are catching lots of buffalo in their nets and catfish on trotlines. For information, call Surplus City Landing at 318/467-2259.
Other than the numerous parades, there is nothing that reflects Mardi Gras other than eating a King Cake. Ever wondered how to make one? Thank to the Jackson Parish Library and Aileen Kelly, you now have the opportunity to do so.
At 1:00 pm on Tuesday, January 30th at the Jonesboro Branch and Wednesday, January 31st at the Chatham Branch, you will have the opportunity to learn how to mix, roll, rill and decorate your own King Cake that you will bake and decorate at home. All supplies are included. Availability is limited and registration is required.
Four local 4H members came home with first place ribbons at the Northwest LA District Livestock show held on Saturday. Winners in the respective categories were:
Jastyn Jordan – Miniature Beef
Roman Strickland – Dairy Goat
Spencer Strickland – Rabbit
Lane Diffy – Poultry
Congratulations goes out to all of the exhibitors. These 4-H’ers work hard day in and day out to raise quality livestock projects and these banners and rosettes are proof of their hard work.
Where does that extra weight go when you lose it?
Who cares? You lose it!
We don’t need to carry excess weight.
“Therefore, since we also have such a large cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us lay aside every weight and the sin that so easily ensnares us. Let us run with endurance the race that lies before us, keeping our eyes on Jesus, the source and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that lay before Him endured a cross and despised the shame and has sat down at the right hand of God’s throne (Hebrews 12:1-2 HCSB).”
The weights of sin, guilt and shame were lifted at Calvary.
“For no one will be justified in His sight by the works of the law, because the knowledge of sin comes through the law.
But now, apart from the law, God’s righteousness has been revealed—attested by the Law and the Prophets —that is, God’s righteousness through faith in Jesus Christ, to all who believe, since there is no distinction. For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. They are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus (Romans 3:20-24 HCSB).”
Trust Him; by faith we receive God’s grace and salvation.
“For you are saved by grace through faith, and this is not from yourselves; it is God’s gift— not from works, so that no one can boast (Ephesians 2:8-9 HCSB).”
This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named or shown in photographs or video as suspects in a criminal investigation, or arrested and charged with a crime, have not been convicted of any criminal offense and are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Jordan Sampson (Jonesboro, LA) – Hodge Police Department Warrant
Lee A Bradford Jr. (Jonesboro, LA) – Simple Battery
Brenda Simon (Jonesboro, LA) – Speeding, Expired License Plate
Pamela Pipes (Jonesboro, LA) – Theft, Possession of Legend Drug, Possession of Schedule II
Jacob C. Watson (Quitman, LA) – EOS Theft of less than a $1,000.00
Marcel Turner (Jonesboro, LA) – Simple Escape x2
Billy Fisher (Jonesboro, LA) – Unlawful Communication, Stalking
Ladamian Ferguson (Dallas, TX) – Introduction of Contraband, Taking Contraband to/from Penal Institution
Amanda Walsworth (Jonesboro, LA) – Unauthorized Use of a Moveable, Introduction of Contraband into a Penal Facility
James L Baxley III (Quitman, LA) – Non Support Warrant
To have your Business Services, Job Opportunities, Items for sale, Wanted to Buy and Public / Legal Notices published – send an email to: jpjjacksonla@gmail.com. Possible costs are dependent on content.
The Jackson Parish Library Board of Control met on Tuesday, January 23, 2024, at 4:30 p.m. at the Jonesboro Branch of the Jackson Parish Library for the regular monthly board meeting.
The meeting was called to order by Mrs. Massey, Board President.
Members present: Mrs. Essmeier, Mrs. Nunn, Mrs. Standley, Ms. Jenkins, Mrs. Tew, and Mrs. Massey. Also present was Floyd Knox, Judy Robertson, Angela Walsworth, and John Kavanaugh. Members absent: Mrs. Cooper and Mrs. Magee.
Mrs. Standley led the invocation.
There being no public comments, the Board proceeded with the proposed agenda.
Mrs. Nunn made the motion to approve the minutes for the November 14, 2023 Board meeting. Mrs. Standley seconded. All yes. Motion carried.
Ms. Jenkins made the motion to accept the 4th Quarter financial reports. Mrs. Nunn seconded. All yes. Motion carried.
Mrs. Essmeier made the motion to accept the November, December, and 2023 statistical reports. Ms. Jenkins seconded. All yes. Motion carried.
Mrs. Massey opened the floor for nominations of officers of the 2024 Jackson Parish Library Board of Control.
Mrs. Nunn made the motion to nominate Mrs. Massey as President. No other nominations were made. Mrs. Essmeier seconded. All yes. Motion carried.
Mrs. Essmeier made the motion to nominate Mrs. Standley to be Vice President. No other nominations were made. Ms. Jenkins seconded. All yes. Motion carried.
Mrs. Standley made the motion to nominate Mrs. Essmeier as Treasurer. No other nominations were made. Ms. Jenkins seconded. All yes. Motion carried.
Mrs. Nunn made the motion to adopt a resolution for the elected officer’s signatures to be added to the signature cards for the special fund account at Sabine State Bank. Ms. Jenkins seconded. All yes. Motion carried.
Mrs. Standley made the motion to set the 2024 Library Board meeting dates, time, and location as follows: quarterly meetings on the 3 rd Monday of the month or the day after if a holiday (April 15, July 15, October 21 for 2024 and January 21, 2025) at 4:30 p.m. at the main branch in Jonesboro. Mrs. Essmeier seconded. All yes. Motion carried.
Mrs. Massey made the motion to adopt the 2024 holiday schedule as presented. Ms. Jenkins seconded. All yes. Motion carried.
The Director updated the Board on current projects.
John Kavanaugh and Angela Walsworth were present to discuss and answer any questions about adding fruit plantings on the library grounds. This is made possible by the LSU AgCenter’s Community Library Homesteading Project Grant and our Ag Extension Agent, Shannon Chevallier.
Mrs. Tew made the motion to approve the request from staff to add fruit plantings near the Jonesboro Library Park as presented by Mr. Kavanaugh. Mrs. Standley seconded. All yes. Motion carried.
Ms. Jenkins made the motion to adjourn the meeting. Mrs. Standley seconded. All yes. Motion carried.
Bobbie Louise Lowery passed away on January 23, 2024 at Jackson Parish Hospital in Jonesboro. She was 80 years old. Known as Mamaw to her entire family, Bobbie was a caring, selfless soul who could never say no to her grandchildren. She made a point to speak, each day to as many of her grandchildren as she could. Bobbie loved being outdoors and listening to her wind chimes. She enjoyed working with her pot plants and flowers and feeding the redbirds and hummingbirds that visited her yard.
Bobbie is survived by her children, Penny Joiner and Charles, Tammy Anderson, Ricky Lowery and Gay, Gary Lowery and Jennifer; grandchildren, Chris Joiner and Kristi, Scotty Anderson and Stephanie, Christy Reed and Austin, Brian Anderson, Aaron Pritchard, Kendell Prudhome and Lexus, Stone Anderson and Logan, Brenna Rae Lowery (Bobbie’s shadow), Slade Prudhome and Ava; 14 great-grandchildren; aunt, Lena Mae Pullig; numerous nieces and nephews; sister-in-law, Lou Ann Howell; brother-in-law, Donnie Lowery and Sallie; special nieces, Connie Adams and Eddie, Barbara Swanner and Bobby; special friend, Jeanne Fain.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Douglas Lowery; father, Eugene W. Ouzts; mother, Lorena (Pullig) Ouzts; grandchildren, Brittany Anderson and Bubba Prudhome; great grandchild, Brody Pritchard; 2 sisters and 1 brother.
The funeral service was held on Saturday, January 27, 2024 in the Chapel at Southern-Edmonds Funeral Home Chapel in Jonesboro with Bro. Donald Rudd officiating. Burial followed in the Transport Cemetery.
Serving the family as pallbearers was Fred Rison, Travis Reed, Sherman Smith, Patrick Howell, Peyton Joiner, Jeff Brooks, Rodney Reed and Tommy Smith. Honorary pallbearers will be Chet Ramsey and Richard Gene Lowery.
The family wishes to thank Jackson Parish Hospital, Dr. Ed Mariano and the nursing staff for the excellent care provided to Bobbie during her hospitalization.
Born in Bastrop, La. to Tom Ray And Mildred Harrell, David was a diehard Cowboys fan for many years. He loved to watch the games with his son and argue with his daughter when they weren’t winning. He retired from La Tech as a painter and spent his retirement with his children and grandchildren. Those left to carry on are his children David Lynn Harrell Jr (Tiffany), Tommy and Oriana Harrell, Michael Wayne Harrell(Summer) and Amber and Anthony Nash and 13 Grandchildren.
He is preceded in death by his Granddaughter Layla Nash; Parents, Tom Ray Harrell and Mildred Harrell; Sister, Annie Lee Tannehill and Brothers, Willie Ray Harrell, Jimmy Don Harrell and Jerry Wayne Harrell.
Visitation for family and friends will be held from 12:00 pm (noon) – 6:00 pm on Monday, January 29th at the Paradise Funeral Home in Jonesboro. The Celebration of Life Service will be at 12:00 pm (noon) on Tuesday, January 30th at Paradise Funeral Home with Interment taking place at 3:30 pm at Carter Cemetery in Collinston, LA.
Services for Mr. Joe Kirkham, Jr. were held on Saturday, January 20, 2024, at Rose-Neath Funeral Home in Arcadia with Rev. Sarah Ingram officiating. Burial followed at Ebenezer Cemetery in Bienville, LA.
Joe was born April 11, 1938, in Bienville Parish to Elzie Kirkham and Lois Ables Kirkham. He entered into rest on January 15, 2024, in Monroe, Louisiana. Joe enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1962, where he proudly served for 4 years. He started his military career with his unit 11 Bravo, which specialized in light weapons. Joe was also an expert marksman and served with the rifleman’s team. Joe was stationed at Ft. Chaffee, Ft. Leonard Wood, Ft. Knox, and Camp Kaiser in Korea, where he was a tank driver. After serving his country, Joe returned to Louisiana where he worked as a Union Boilermaker/Welder. He was a hard worker all his life and instilled his work ethic in his children. He was a member of North Hodge Church of God, and a member of the American Legion in Minden. Joe loved fishing, hunting and watching college football and basketball. Joe especially loved spending time with his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He will be missed by all those that knew him.
Joe is preceded in death by his parents Elzie and Lois Kirkham, wife Mander Kirkham, and by his siblings Bernice Ray Kirkham, Ezelle Kirkham, Billy Roy Kirkham, and Glen Kirkham.
Left to cherish his memory is his son Roy Kirkham, daughter Joy Kirkham, grandchildren Manda Miller and husband Michael, Melinda Tyrrell and husband Nate, Kayla Boasso, and Cody Kirkham, great grandchildren Daniel, Aleigha, Nadilynn, Malorie, Michael, Memphis, Nya, Maddox, and Macie, and by numerous other nieces, nephews, and other loving family and friends.
Honoring Joe as pallbearers were Michael Miller, Nate Jordan, and Daniel Sonnier.
The Jackson Parish School District announces that a SPARC (Special Programs and Recreation for Children) event will be held at the Jackson Parish Library from 4:00 – 5:00 pm on Wednesday, January 24th.
The interactive program that is for caregivers and their children, ages 2-4 is planned and facilitated by Jackson Parish Speech-Language Pathologists and designed to promote language development and family growth through story books, songs, and craft activities. Children must be accompanied by their parent or a family member.
There is no cost to attend and children will receive a take home activity while supplies last.
It doesn’t matter the sport, when the schedule comes out this is the game that is always circled on the schedule. The coaches won’t admit to it, always downplaying it as “just another game”, but everyone who is a part of it knows the truth.
It is the game that makes or breaks a season. It is a district game. Just as importantly it is for parish pride. Don’t think it makes a difference who wins? It is the game that years from now, families, some who have members that went to both schools, and friends will talk about. Simply put. You have to win or be prepared for the trash talk to begin and NEVER end.
It is Weston vs Quitman and round one of the 2024 prep basketball edition tips off this Friday at 6:00 pm at the Quitman High gymnasium. Even if one of the teams is struggling you better get there early if you want a seat.
As fate would have it, both schools have fared well leading up to the second contest for both in district 1B play. In boys action, for Quitman, a victory means a 2-0 start and a direct challenge to Doyline’s traditional district domination. For Weston, a victory is even more important as a loss puts them two back with two to go.
The roles are reversed in the girls contest as it is Weston who would move to 2-0 while Quitman would be 0-2 and on the outside looking in. A Quitman win and both are 1-1, one game back of frontrunning Castor.
Another pair of local schools do battle this week as well, as Saline visits Jonesboro-Hodge for three games beginning with a junior varsity game at 5:00 pm. The contest is a break from the battles of district play. JHHS will begin the second round of district 3-2A play on Friday when they travel to district leader Lakeview.
There was joyous celebration in the Jonesboro-Hodge High School locker rooms on Tuesday evening. And there should have been. Following the girls 41-40 victory, the JHHS boys beat Many 43-38, putting the finishing touches on the sweep that gave both the girls and boys their first district 3-2A win of the year. Almost as important it put and end to the losing streaks that both have been saddled with, stopping a seven game slide for the girls and an 11-game drought for the boys.
JHHS 43 Many 38 (boys) The Tigers made the four point first quarter lead hold up by only allowing the second fewest points given up all year. Daelen Boston led the Tigers in scoring with 11 points followed by Dewayne Palmer, DaMarious Burns, Za”Mauryian Palmer, Ariy’un Bradford and Dylan Hayes all adding six points each. JaDarrion Brown also tallied two.
| TEAM | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | TOTAL |
| JHHS (3-14, 1-4) | 12 | 10 | 10 | 11 | 43 |
| Many (4-12, 0-5) | 8 | 10 | 11 | 9 | 38 |
Winnfield 70 JHHS 39 (Monday) – The visiting Tigers from Winn Parish closed out the first half and opened the second by outscoring JHHS 48-26 to waltz their way to their 6th straight victory and stay atop the district 3-2A standing. For JHHS the loss was the 11th in a row and 4th straight in district play. A bright spot was that although JHHS have anyone score more than 9 points (JaDarrion Brown) virtually everyone on the roster got involved as 10 players contributed points.
| TEAM | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | TOTAL |
| Winnfield (12-6, 3-0) | 13 | 26 | 22 | 9 | 70 |
| JHHS (2-14, 0-4) | 5 | 13 | 13 | 8 | 39 |
JHHS 41 Many 40 (Girls) – McKenzie Bradford fired in three of her five, 3-pointers on the night in the first quarter and Morgan McGee added 9 points as the Lady Tigers exploded to a 23-9 first quarter lead that held up despite JHHS scoring only 18 points the rest of the way. Bradford finished with a season best, 20 points followed by McGee with 11 and Sanaa Tatum with six points. Jaylena Jackson and Nesha Johson had two points apiece to help the Lady Tigers improve to 5-17 on the year and 1-4 in district 3-2A play. Many also now sits at 1-4 in district and is 4-22 overall.
Winnfield 53 JHHS 27 (girls) Bolstered by a pair of three pointers by Morgan McGee, JHHS played Winnfield tough early on but second half scoring woes once again proved fatal to the hopes of taking the home court victory on Monday. Nesha Johnson scored six, Jaylena Jackson added 4, Sanaa Tatum tallied 2 and Angel Moss added a free throw for the Lady Tigers.
Eli Walker, who led Quitman with 20 points, scored 8 points in the fourth period and Brayden Smith added six of his 11 points on the night, as the Wolverines broke open a six point game to take a 67-54 district 1B opening victory over Castor. The 4th win in a row for the Wolverines improved the overall record to 18-7, while maintaining their #6 ranking in Division V among “non-select” schools. Castor fell to 9-13 overall. Logan Ponder also reached double digits in scoring for Quitman with 17 while Noah Leach had 7 and Riley Duck scored six. Gavyn Caskey and Larson Thomas each drained a three pointer also.
| TEAM | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | TOTAL |
| Quitman (18-7, 1-0) | 22 | 12 | 16 | 17 | 67 |
| Castor (9-13, 0-1) | 18 | 13 | 13 | 10 | 54 |
Castor 44 Quitman 41 (girls) – The battle between two of top “non-select” Division V schools in north Louisiana lived up to the billing. Down 39-34, Cali Deal made five straight points to bring Quitman even as time was winding down but Castor hit a clutch three pointer and added another basket to steal the victory in the district 1B opener for both teams. With the win Castor improves to 16-4 while Quitman falls ro 18-8 as their 7 game winning streak comes to a halt. Early on it was Quitman who had the advantage taking a 12-9 advantage after one period and a 22-16 lead into the break. Castor shave two of the lead by winning the third period 12-10 and then outscored Quitman 16-9 in the final frame to rally for the win.
| TEAM | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | TOTAL |
| Quitman (18-8, 0-1) | 12 | 10 | 10 | 9 | 41 |
| Castor (16-4, 1-0) | 9 | 7 | 12 | 16 | 44 |
Weston spotted homestanding Doyline a 13-9 first quarter lead but behind 22 points from Lainee Trosclair and a career best tying 17 points from Anslee Aldy, Weston ran off with a 62-46 victory to win their district 1B opener. Lexie Millien scored seven and grabbed 9 boards while Carly Jo Griffin also scored 7 points and had 8 rebounds. Also getting 8 rebounds and adding 4 points each was Nadia Siadek and Raelynn Shell as Weston controlled the paint for 48 rebounds on the night. With the victory, Weston improves to 14-10 on the year and 1-0 in district 1B play while Doyline fell to 0-1 and 3-12 overall, having now lost their last four games.
| TEAM | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | TOTAL |
| Weston (14-10, 0-1) | 9 | 14 | 13 | 16 | 62 |
| Doyline (3-12, 0-1) | 13 | 10 | 12 | 11 | 46 |
Doyline 62 Weston 52 (boys) – Down 41-35 midway through the third quarter, home standing Doyline went on an 18 point run to pull away from pesky Weston. With the victory in the district opener for both teams, the defending 1B champions improved to 18-2 on the year while Weston dropped to 14-10 overall. The defeat overshadowed an otherwise spectacular night by Bryce Zehr who tied a career high with 29 points on 12 of 25 shooting, including five baskets from three point range. Tait Henderson scored 11 and Tommy Walker had six for the Wolves while Daniel Watlington had 3 points as did Jude Otwell, who also grabbed 10 rebounds.
| TEAM | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | TOTAL |
| Weston (14-10, 0-1) | 16 | 12 | 13 | 11 | 52 |
| Doyline (18-2, 1-0) | 19 | 9 | 17 | 17 | 62 |
By beating Dodson on Tuesday, Saline took some of the sting out of the loss to Calvin on Monday. With both teams coming in undefeated in district play, the Cougars took a big step up in the 2C race, by winning on the road.
Saline 54 Dodson 15 (girls) – Kacidy Sims scored 6 of her 12 points on the night in the first quarter to help Saline jump out to a 15-3 advantage as the Lady Bobcats never looked back in the district 2C victory on Tuesday.
Behind 5 points by Ja’Kiya Joiner and Jayden Browning’s second 3-pointer of the first half, Dodson scored 10 points in the second quarter but was limited to just two points in the second half to fall to 0-3 in district play and 1-20 on the year. Jada Connor chipped in with four points for the Lady Panthers.
Boosted by connecting on 7 of 8 free throws, Alana Gray finished with 13 points to lead the Lady Bobcats, with Alaya Gray scoring 10 on the strength of three, 3-pointers. Sydney Thomas and Jordan Williams finished with 4 points and both Tyla Malone and Alaya Amos sank a three pointer. Xylia Scott added a basket and CeNada Weathers made a free throw to round out the scoring for Saline who improved to 2-1 in 2C play and 9-17 overall.
| TEAM | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | TOTAL |
| Saline (9-17, 2-1)) | 15 | 12 | 15 | 12 | 54 |
| Dodson (1-20, 0-3) | 3 | 10 | 2 | 0 | 15 |
Calvin 61 Saline 41 (Girls) – Applying a suffocating full court pressure defense that forced numerous turnovers in the third quarter, Calvin outscored Saline 23-11 to break open a one point game at the half. The victory on Monday gave the Lady Cougars (15-11) sole possession of first place in district 2C with a 3-0 record, while Saline fell to 1-1 and 8-17 overall as their two game winning streak came to an end. Kacidy Sims finished with a team high 16 points, turning in one of her better performances of the year. Alana Gray had 7 points, while Jordan Williams, Alaya Gray, Tyla Malone and Rayaunnah Pearson all had three each. CeNada Weathers and Sydney Thomas tallied two each and Adysen Breeland hit a free throw.
| TEAM | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | TOTAL |
| Saline | 9 | 12 | 11 | 9 | 41 |
| Calvin | 13 | 9 | 23 | 16 | 61 |
Saline 60 Dodson 24 (boys) – Saline stormed out of the locker room to take a commanding 26-7 lead after one period of play that ballooned to 45-10 at the half. Gavon Dailey led the way with 8 points, with Trent Ledbetter and Maddox Williams scoring 7 each as a season best 13 players scored for the Bobcats who improved to 16-10 overall and 2-1 in district 2C play. Boston Duff and Clay Statham had five each for the Panthers who fell to 3-20 overall and 0-3 in district.
| TEAM | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | TOTAL |
| Saline (16-10, 2-1) | 26 | 19 | 4 | 8 | 60 |
| Dodson (3-20, 0-3) | 7 | 3 | 7 | 7 | 24 |
Calvin 48 Saline 45 (boys) – With sole possession of first place in the early 2C title chase on the line, Calvin (13-12, 3-0) snuck away with the road win by making 5 of 7 free throws down the stretch to keep Saline at bay. The Bobcats took a 25-23 lead into the break on the strength of 12 points from Trent Ledbetter and 7 from Eli Ferguson. Calvin reversed the deficit in the third period that turned ugly when players on both teams received technical fouls following tremendously physical play that raised the tension of the contest between the two top teams in the district. Ferguson led Saline with 16 points, followed by 12 from Ledbetter’s and 7 from Gavon Dailey. Connor Roberts scored six and Maddox Williams finished with four points.
| TEAM | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | TOTAL |
| Saline | 10 | 15 | 9 | 11 | 45 |
| Calvin | 10 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 48 |
Bryan “Peanut” Lay set a new personal record by clearing 13’9″ in the pole vault at the LSU Indoor Qualifying Meet held on January 24th. The mark was good enough for second place in the competition, qualifying him for the LHSAA Indoor State Championships that will be held on February 17, 2024 at the Bernie Moore Track Complex on the campus of LSU in Baton Rouge. 
The two-time defending Class B and Division V state champion in the Pole Vault improved his previous best by 3″ in his second attempt, a remarkable achievement given that this was the first indoor meet Lay has participated in. It is also believed to be the first time that any track athlete from Quitman High has ever participated in an indoor meet.
Lay’s second place finish was a full 9″ better than the third place competitor and trailed only the mark of 14’4.75″ achieved by Lucas Owens, of Acadiana Renaissance Charter Academy.
For full LSU Indoor Qualifier Meet Results go to https://la.milesplit.com/
Applications for residency in the Jonesboro Senior Village are being taken at the Jackson Parish Library from 9:00 am – 3:00 pm this Wednesday – Friday, January 24-26.
Interested parties should bring a copy of their drivers license or ID card, social securing card as well as any Social Security information if applicable. Appointments are not required but are accepted. For more information or to make an appointment contact Ben Ledbetter at 318-669-4664.
One of the state of Louisiana’s best kept secrets is situated just outside Saline, LA. It is Briarwood Nature Preserve, a 212 acre tract of pristine old forest growth and one of the largest collections of irises found anywhere. Managing the expanse is Travis and Bayli Brossette, who have dedicated their life to the longevity of the nearly 200 year old nature preserve.
Recently the Brossette’s and Briarwood received some well due notoriety thanks to Suzanne Wright, who published wonderful article about the area and the family in the national publication Garden and Gun.
To view the complete article go to https://gardenandgun.com/articles/meet-the-young-family-protecting-a-wild-beautiful-stretch-of-northern-louisiana
Jonesboro-Hodge High School wide receiver / defensive back, DaMarious Burns has received a full scholarship offer to play football at Louisiana Christian University in Pineville, LA.
The versatile, 6’4″ 185 lb. speedster, caught 9 passes for 120 yards and a touchdown for the Tigers, while recording 3 sacks, 3 tackles for a loss, 16 solo tackles and an interception from his defensive back position. Burns also returned a kickoff for a score.