Clovis “Clay” Gottfried
May 27, 1964 – February 8, 2024

Clovis “Clay” Gottfried, age 59 of Jonesboro, passed away surrounded by his family on Thursday, February 8, 2024. Clay loved his family dearly. He was a hard working man that took pride in taking good care of his family. His grandchildren were his world and he enjoyed doting as much love and time on them as he could. When his grands were around no one else existed. Clay also enjoyed hunting and watching old John Wayne westerns in his free time.

Left to cherish his memory is his wife, Gail Gottfried; son, James Gottfried; daughter, Melanie Coody and husband Cagney; grandchildren, Maylen Coody, Caius Coody, Cohen Coody; brother, Stormy Gottfried and wife Diane; nephews, Ro Griffith, Myka Griffith; aunt, Mickey Knotts; brother in law, Ronnie Griffith; a host of cousins, other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Walter Gottfried; mother, Bessie Lula (Prine) Lester; sister, Shela Griffith; aunts, Elaine Carmichael, Jo Buckelew; uncles, Marvin Prine, Charles Prine.

Friends may visit with the family on Sunday, February 11, 2024 in the chapel of Southern-Edmonds Funeral Home from 5:00PM until 7:00PM. Funeral services are set for 11:00AM, Monday, February 12, 2024 in the chapel with Bro. Bubba Walsworth officiating. Burial will follow in Springhill Cemetery under the direction of Southern-Edmonds Funeral Home.

Serving the family as pallbearers will be Rickey Allen, Marvin Carmichael, Dustin Carmichael, Ro Griffith, Myka Griffith, Rickey Allen, Jr., Randy Porter.

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The Jonesboro Senior Village celebrated their Grand Opening on Tuesday with a traditional ribbon cutting ceremony. Flanked by local dignitaries and state housing commission representatives, Jay Odom, who the avenue into the development is named after, did the honors by snipping the ribbon marking the official opening of the only gated, senior living, development in Jackson Parish. 

“I can’t tell you how excited we are to be here today,” said MGM Development  Partner Jeff Glover. “This is the day we have been looking forward to for several years.” 

In front of the standing room only crowd gathered in the Clubhouse of the development situated just off Industrial Drive, south of Jonesboro, Glover opened the ceremony by introducing several people, organizations and business entities that helped make Jonesboro’s newest housing development possible. 

“There were so many people that helped make this possible,” said Glover. “Each and every one played a vital role and we greatly appreciate their efforts.” 

Comprised of 50 units, Jonesboro Senior Village offers seniors over the age of 55 the opportunity to enjoy comfortable living in a safe and secure environment while providing tremendous amenities to help improve their quality of life. 

While many of the units are already leased, applications for residency are still being accepted. If interested, call 318-669-4664 or come by the property located at 101 Jay Odom Way in Jonesboro. 

Council on Aging receives $5,000.00 from MGM Development Group

Demonstrating their intent on becoming a true partner in the effort to provide seniors in Jackson Parish a better way of life, MGM Development Group, who designed the Jonesboro Senior Village, presented the Jackson Parish Council on Aging a check in the amount of $5,000.00.

“We not only wanted to build this wonderful place to live for seniors in the area but also develop a relationship with the people and organizations of Jackson Parish that are affiliated with their care,” said Glover. “We know how valuable the Council on Aging is to the area and we wanted to do our part to help their effort continue to be successful.” 

The gala event concluded following Louisiana Housing Commission representative, Louis Richard and Jonesboro Mayor J. “Spike” Harris making brief statements of welcome and congratulations, leading to a tour of select units available to the public. 

While many of the units are already leased, applications for residency are still being accepted. If interested, call 318-669-4664 or come by the property located at 101 Jay Odom Way in Jonesboro. 

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Quitman and Weston High Schools played round two of their annual home-and-home series with the WHS girls defending their home court and the QHS boys completing the season sweep.

In other area action on Tuesday, both the girls and boys teams from Jonesboro-Hodge fell to arch rival Winnfield in their second to the last district 3-2A contest of the year. Also on Monday, Saline split a pair of district 2C games against Georgetown with the girls winning and boys losing on what was designated as Senior Night and their final regular season home contest of the year.

Weston 50 Quitman 46 (Girls) – Down 43-38 midway through the fourth quarter, Weston went on a 12-3 run to storm back for the stirring victory. With the victory Weston, now 16-12 overall, moves into second place in district 1B. with a 3-2 record. while Quitman falls to 2-3 and 20-10. 

Anslee Aldy was the catalyst for the Lady Wolves scoring 18 points and gathering 13 rebounds. Lainee Trosclair and Lexie Millien also came up big with 12 and 11 points respectively followed by five points from Nadia Siadek and 3 points by Raelynn Shell.  Carly Jo Griffin added a free throw and also 7 boards. 

Quitman was led by Cali Deal with 21 points and Anna Leach, who scored 14. Jaleigh Burns added six, Taylor Harvey five and Taylor Borland rounded out the scoring with a free throw for the Lady Wolverines who dropped to 2-3 in district and 20-10 overall with a second straight loss.

Quitman 72 Weston 53 (boys) – By beating Weston for the second time this season, the Wolverines stayed on course for the showdown against Doyline on Friday for the district 1B title. With the victory, Quitman improves to 4-1 in district play and 21-8 on the year. Logan Ponder scored 17 to pace the Wolverines, who took command of the contest in the second quarter by holding Weston to just five points in the frame. Eli Walker added 11 and Riley Duck, Braden Martin, and Brayden Smith all netted nine each. Tait Henderson led the Wolves with 18 followed by 8 points from Daniel Watlington and 6 by Jude Otwell. Juan Gonzalez finished with five while Brody Tidwell, Bryce Zehr and Lajavion Harris all had four each. 

Winnfield 59 JHHS 39 (girls) – Morgan McGee drained four 3-pointers and scored 18 points for JHHS but Winnfield outscored the Lady Tigers 24-9 combined in the second and third quarter to take the victory. With the loss JHHS falls to 1-8 in district 3-2A play and 6-22 overall while Winnfield improves to 6-3 and 14-12 overall. Nesha Johnson and McKenzie Bradford also had good games for JHHS scoring 8 and 7 points respectively. Sanaa Tatum added three points, Angel Moss two and Jalenya Jackson made a free throw to round out the J-H scoring. 

Winnfield 76 JHHS 40 (boys) – For the ninth game in a row, JHHS failed to eclipse the 50 point barrier, resulting in the defeat that dropped the Tigers to 1-8 in district 3-2A play and 4-19 overall. The Tigers will close out their district schedule on Friday when they travel to Many. No game statistics were provided by press time.  

Georgetown 68 Saline 42 (boys) – Heading into the locker room after two periods of play Saline held a 23-21 advantage but a serious second swoon spelled doom for the Bobcats in the contest played on Monday. Playing without starting point guard Gavon Dailey, who injured an ankle against Calvin, Saline managed only 6 points in the third quarter and four in the fourth, until late in the period when after the game was decided both teams allowed their reserves to get playing time. Trent Ledbetter scored 19 points to lead the Bobcats who fell to 3-3 in district 2C play and 19-12 overall. Georgetown improved to 4-2 and 22-12 on the year. 

Saline 45 Georgetown 13 (girls) – The Lady Bobcats closed out their final home court regular season appearance in fine style as Saline celebrated Senior night with the impressive victory. With the victory Saline moves to 4-2 in district 2C play and 11-20 overall while Georgetown falls to 2-4 and 6-23 for the season. Alana Gray led the way with 15 points with Kacidy Sims scoring 9 and Alaya Gray adding 8 more. Sydney Thomas finished with five, Jordan Williams 4 and Tyla Malone had two for the Lady Bobcats. 

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The Jackson Parish School Board met in regular session on February 5th in the conference room of the Jackson Parish School District Central Office located at 315 Pershing Highway, Jonesboro, La.

Members present were Gerry Mims, Wade McBride, Mary Saulters, Rick Barlow, Paulette Belton and Calvin Waggoner. Dennis Clary was absent. 
After Mary Saulters gave the Invocation and Paulette Belton led in the Pledge of Allegiance the meeting was called to order by Gerry Mims. Following was the presentation of awards to the following Students of the Year, Teachers of the Year and Support Staff of the Year.

Brady Malone – 5th Grade Student of the Year
Carlynn Waters – 8th Grade Student of the Year
Ella Barr – 12th Grade Student of the Year
Kristy Walker – Elementary Teacher of the Year
Cyndi Beaubouef – Middle School Teacher of the Year
Kolby Patrick – High School Teacher of the Year
Cole Stevenson – Elementary Outstanding Support Staff Employee
Nicole Jacobs – Middle School Outstanding Support Staff Employee
Julie West – High School Outstanding Support Staff Employee
Kaylie Hightower – Elementary New Teacher of the Year
Karen Wimberly – Middle School New Teacher of the Year
Trey Porchay – High School New Teacher of the Year

The Board then recognized Matthew Margaglio from Kolder, Slaven and Company, LLC who presented the 2023 audit. Mary Saulters then reported to the Board on the meeting of the Executive Finance Committee held prior to the Board meeting.
Next came the agreement to pay the following bills: General Fund, Federal Program, School Food Service, Sales Tax, Special Education, District Maintenance bills.

Approval to pay Employer’s Share of Office of Group Benefits insurance premiums from General Fund for the March 2024 sales tax distribution and  payment to SHI in the amount of $12,549.00 for the renewal of ZOHO Corporation for
Network Management for the District 12/21/2023 – 12/21/2024, to be paid from General Fund followed. SHI was also awarded $17,979.35 for the annual renewal of the Microsoft Campus license 3/1/2024 – 2/28/2025, to be paid from the General fund.

The low quote of $24,500.00 from Metal Werks to replace roof over Locker Rooms at Quitman High School gym, to be paid from Quitman District funds was accepted as was the  low quote of $42,160.00 from Golden Roofing to install a new roof on the Senior High Building at Quitman High School, to be paid from Quitman District funds.

Focus of the meeting then turned to out of state travel for parish students as follows:

(1.) Approval then was granted for Quitman High School students, Madison Taylor and Cayden Brown to attend the National Beta Convention in Savannah, Georgia on June 16-19. 2024. The Jackson Parish School Board will reimburse for expenses according to policy IFCB – Field Trips and Excursions.
(2) Approval granted to Quitman High School students, Hayden Davis and Maddox Duck to attend the High School Fishing World Finals and National Championship in Anderson, South Carolina on June 17 – 22, 2024. Expenses will be paid by students.
(3) Approval granted for Weston High School students, Molly Beaubouef, Olivia
Otwell, Makayla Johns, James Wall, Abram Toms, Carroll-Anne Foshee, Baylee
Broomfield, Leila Roberts, Raelynn Shell, Alley Hines to attend the National Beta
Convention in Savannah, Georgia on June 16-19, 2024. The students will be
transported by their parents. The Jackson Parish School Board will reimburse for
expenses according to policy IFCB – Field Trips and Excursions. 

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Quitman Fire District 1 would like to congratulate Chief Philip Brown for earning his lifetime membership in the Louisiana State Firemen’s Association! Chief Brown has served the citizens of Quitman Fire District 1 since he was 18 years old! When Chief Brown was just a child he tagged along with his parents David and Winifred Brown as they traveled to Arkansas to bring back the first fire truck for Quitman Fire District 1. We also appreciate all of the hard work and dedication he has shown and continues to show to this fire department and the community!

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The Student Athletes of the Week for 2024 has been selected at the three public high schools in Jackson Parish. Being chosen to represent their respective schools for the week of February 4-10  were Duke Tew from Jonesboro-Hodge High School, Anslee Aldy  at Weston High School and Bryan “Peanut” Lay from Quitman High School.

The honorees are chosen by select members of the faculty and staff from each school after best exemplifying what it means to be a true student-athlete through academic achievement and athletic accomplishment. Each recipient is given a commemorative T-Shirt by the Jackson Parish Hospital, who sponsors the award.

Student-Athlete of the Week

Bryan “Peanut” Lay  (12th Grade) – Quitman High School Track and Field 

Duke Tew (11th Grade) – Jonesboro-Hodge High School Boys Basketball

Anslee Aldy (11th Grade) – Weston High School Girls Basketball

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Congratulations go to three students each from the 6th and 7th grades at Jonesboro-Hodge Middle School were named winners of the Louisiana State Float Project Competition.

6th Grade Winners 
1st Place- Ayden Watkins
2nd Place- Andrew Watkins
3rd Place- Demirrio Jones
7th Grade Winners
1st Place – Kodan Atkins
2nd Place- Phynix Johnson
3rd Place – Keydan Tran

JHMS would like to send a nice warm “THANK YOU” to Officer Sirena Jackson, Officer Steven Haulcy, Trey Porchay, David Brown, Ashley Cotton, Mrs. Erica Mangum, Mrs. Tracy Turnage, Ms. Sierra Calahan, Trevaun Calahan, Mrs. Rachelle Mason, and Nicole Jacobs for being judges.

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In the continuing effort to provide education about domestic and dating violence  Andrea Malone, Jackson Parish DART Rural Advocate, sends an important reminder that February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month. 

Defining Teen Dating Violence
Dating violence is when someone you are seeing romantically harms you in some way, whether it is physically, sexually, emotionally, or all three. About 1 in 12 high school students experience physical dating violence. 
What are the consequences?
Unhealthy, abusive, or violent relationships can have short-and long-term negative effects, including severe consequences, on a developing teen. Youth who are victims of teen dating violence are more likely to:
• experience depression and anxiety symptoms
• engage in unhealthy behaviors, like using tobacco, drugs, and alcohol
• exhibit antisocial behaviors, like lying, theft, bullying, or hitting
• think about suicide
Violence in an adolescent relationship sets the stage for future relationship problems, including intimate partner violence and sexual violence perpetration and/or victimization throughout life. For example, youth who are victims of dating violence in high school are at higher risk for victimization during college.
How can we prevent teen dating violence?
Supporting healthy, nonviolent relationships could reduce TDV and prevent its harmful, long-lasting effects on individuals, their families, and their communities. During the pre-teen and teen years, it is critical for youth to begin learning skills to create and maintain healthy relationships, including managing feelings and communicating in a healthy way. Research also highlights the need for prevention efforts that address the unique needs of teens who are at greater risk of experiencing teen dating violence.
Warning Signs
It can be difficult to tell the difference between a healthy, unhealthy and abusive relationship. While there are many warning signs of abuse, here are ten of the most common to look for:
Checking your cell phone or email without permission
Possessiveness
Constant put-downs
Telling you what to do.
Extreme jealousy or insecurity
Explosive temper
Isolating you from family or friends
Making false accusations
Mood swings

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On February 3, 2024, the faculty and staff of Jonesboro-Hodge Elementary held a LEAP-focused Saturday School for students in Grades 3-5. The rotations included practice tests in the areas of ELA, Math, and Science, counseling sessions on “Test Anxiety,” and Physical Education. An attendance of 23 allowed for a small-group setting that ended with a tasty lunch courtesy of Pizza Hut. Parents/Guardians, please be on the lookout for future sessions.

“While I believe a score does not define our students, we will continue to offer additional LEAP Prep opportunities in efforts to increase student achievement on the LEAP assessment. To clarify, Mastery is a score of 750 across all contents and is defined by the LDOE as meeting the grade level expectations and prepared for the next grade level. A school receives 150 points for every Advanced, 100 for every Mastery, 80 for every Basic, and 0 for every Approaching Basic and Unsatisfactory scoring” -Ms. Copeland, Principal,

5th Graders present impressive writing samples 

Ms. White is currently teaching the ELA Guidebook Unit: Shutting Out the Sky to fifth graders. The students are heavily preparing for upcoming ELA LEAP testing, which includes writing.

Featured below are some impressive point-of-view writing samples.

4-9-1885
I am from Sibiu, Romania. In my home country, people were beaten every day for no reason. Soldiers came and killed many of my people. One day, I heard about a country called “The Land of Gold”. A few weeks later, it was like wildfire spreading. Someone had immigrated to America and came back to free more people. I heard that somewhere 10 million dollars was hidden in America . One month later, I was packing my bags and heading to “The Golden Land”. My journey was horrible. People that were in third class had no fresh food. They fed us scraps, and we were lucky to get one banana. The worst part was people were always getting sick and many died. Also, we had no toilet, we had 5 gallon buckets. One day, I heard a lot of commotion
upstairs on deck. I got up there and saw the Statue of Liberty. I felt relieved to finally be in “The Golden Land”. –Malayah, JHES 5th Grader

January 1, 1915
I am from a small town in Romania called Lași. My home life was dreadful, and my father had left for the army when I was younger. My mother, Ancaa, married another man while my father was in the army. Later my father died in World War 1. I was irate! I told my mother that I was leaving because she told me that my father died and had done nothing in this family for us. In 1915 I decided I was leaving officially. I heard that the Statue of Liberty represents freedom, and we were under war. A month later I was boarding a boat sailing towards America. Only me was on the boat, just me and a few other people, not even my family. As I was on the boat I saw people using the bathroom in the corner, people were sick and throwing up. I was sitting in a corner of the boat when I heard noise, people screaming, I went up on deck and I saw the Statue of Liberty. I was set free. -Kaden, JHES 5th Grader

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The Jonesboro Study Guild held its October meeting on January 22, 2024 at the Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce with Paula Jimmerson serving as Hostess and Stacy Allbritton introducing the program: The Ambassador’s Self-Help Programs.

When she was a diplomat in Togo from 2009-2011 with the U.S. Foreign Service, Stacy learned that the Ambassador awarded $5,000 grants to various individuals and organization who had a pressing need and whose projects propelled citizens to the path to self-reliance. Stacy chose to sponsor two projects involving education.

The first was in the village of Gbodjomé where there was a vo-tech school for girls with two programs: hair dressing and couture. The girls who attended for hairdressing had a room in the school, but the girls who attended for couture had to sew and crochet outside on the porch because the school had only one enclosed room. The chief’s goal was to use the grant to add a room to the building so that they girls’ studies would not be interrupted during monsoon season.

The second project took place in Sodo, where the village chief wanted to use the grant to build benches for school children as many of the schools had only thatched roofs and dirt floors. Stacy toured both towns and did a follow-up visit the following year to ensure that the grants were used as intended. Upon her return, she was given the royal treatment with traditional dances, a tour of the schools, palm wine, and even a live chicken. She came away with a respect for the chiefs, their citizens, and the United States for offering an opportunity to people who are usually afforded so little.

Upon adjournment, members enjoyed sampling the delicious Gambino’s king cake compliments of their gracious hostess, Paula Jimmerson.

 

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The residents of Forest Haven Nursing Home and Rehabilitation Center in Jonesboro enjoyed being entertained by a couple of “special guests” on Tuesday, February 6th. They were loud. They were cute. Most of all they were loved and got all kinds of attention. 

Making their well received appearance were a pair of baby goats, compliments of Chaplin, Jessica Ethridge, who wanted to provide the opportunity for residents to show their love and enjoy the visit.  Can’t wait for them to come baaaaaaaack! 

 

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Al and his roommate had been friends since they met on their first day of the fall semester at Harvard College in 1965. They spent most of their time shooting pool and watching Star Trek rather than studying for exams. Al occasionally challenged his roommate to shooting contests in which they would see who could shoot a tin can from the farthest distance. Al usually won. Al’s roommate’s parents lived overseas when he was in college, so Al’s roommate went with Al to his parent’s house in Carthage, Tennessee for the holidays and other school breaks. There, they went chasing after cows that got loose, canoeing, hunting, including coon hunting with coon dogs in the middle of the night. On one Thanksgiving, Al and his roommate had to stay in their dorm for the holiday. Wanting to keep with the holiday spirit, they decided to roast a turkey. They built a fire in the dorm’s central fireplace, wrapped a turkey in a couple of rolls of aluminum foil, and roasted the turkey. Al’s roommate said later that it was Al’s most ambitious attempt at cooking. Oh, the things we get up to when in college.

One day, Al and his Harvard College roommate asked two fellow students, who were also roommates, out for a double date. The girls accepted, but there was one problem. Al’s roommate had no car, no motorcycle, no mode of transportation. All Al had was a motorcycle. Had they spent what little money they had on a taxi, they would not have had enough money to spend on their dates. Al could have taken turns shuttling his roommate and their dates to their date spot, but they all wanted to ride together. So, they did the best they could with what they had. Al’s date, Tipper, rode on the handlebars, Al drove, Al’s roommate’s date sat behind Al, and Al’s roommate sat on the back of the motorcycle behind his date. The motorcycle, designed to carry two people at most, was overloaded. Riding on public roadways of Cambridge, Massachusetts with four people on a motorcycle was illegal. The foursome carefully started on their journey to the date spot. Almost as soon as they set off, they saw a policeman. Unfortunately, the policeman saw them, too. The officer’s eyes followed them in disbelief as they passed. The foursome on the motorcycle stared at the police officer in disbelief as well. The officer pulled out behind the overloaded motorcycle and turned on his emergency lights. It looked as if their date would be cut short.

Al had another idea. He told his passengers to “hold on!” Tipper gripped the handlebars even tighter. Al’s date locked her hands even tighter around Al’s abdomen. With a sly grin, Al’s roommate squeezed his date tighter. Al gunned the motorcycle. The policeman accelerated his patrol car and stayed right behind them. Al thought quickly and turned down an alleyway that was too narrow for a car to follow. After “ditching” the policeman, the foursome on the overloaded motorcycle continued driving to their date spot. Again, they saw a policeman and avoided being pulled over by going down a narrow alley. The foursome eventually made it to their date spot, enjoyed their evening, and headed back to campus, all the while “ditching” policemen in the same manner as before. A few years later, Al married his date. What became of Al’s roommate’s date remains a mystery.

35 years after they first met, Al Gore ran an unsuccessful campaign for President of the United States. At the 2000 Democratic National Convention, Al’s roommate nominated Al for president and delivered a convention speech in which he told of their college days and their lifelong friendship. In the speech, Al’s roommate said Al “has been one of my closest friends since the day we met.” Later in the speech, Al’s roommate said, “Al is the closest thing I’ve had to a brother.” While Al’s political career prospered, Al’s roommate’s acting career also flourished. Al’s roommate has been nominated for several Academy Awards and won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his performance in The Fugitive. He won a Golden Globe award for his performance in Coal Miner’s Daughter. Some of his other notable films include Men in Black, Batman Forever, Double Jeopardy, and Space Cowboys. Al’s roommate has appeared in at least 90 films. You know Al’s roommate and lifelong friend. His name is Tommy Lee Jones.

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Tasting victory in sweet. Doing it twice in the same night is doubly nice. That is what the Jonesboro-Hodge Elementary School (J-HES) did on Monday, February 5th when the girls team won by a score of 14-8 followed by the boys putting the exclamation point on the double dip by besting Choudrant 21-18.

JHES 14 Choudrant 8 (girls) – De’Riyah Mills and Marlei Moss did all the scoring with Mills leading the way with 8 points and Moss chipping in with six.

JHES 21 Choudrant (boys) – A balanced attach paved the way to the impressive victory as five scored. Antley Wright led the way with 8 points with Addaren Amos finishing with five. Caiden Jackson chipped in with four points and both Brady Malone and Antoine Spivey scored two.

The final home game of the year which will be 5th Grade Recognition Night will be against Simsboro at 6:00 pm on Monday, February 12th 2/12 at the J-HHS boys gymnasium.

My ashes blew away.

That Ash Wednesday was a blustery day. I had agreed to do “drive by ashes” for those wanting to receive the Imposition of Ashes. I had ample ashes to do the “drive by ashes” from 6:30 until 7:30 a.m. I had the ashes on a flat dish. These ashes were a bit dryer than I like my ashes. Like gumbo in Louisiana, there are all sorts of recipes for the ashes used on Ash Wednesday. Some are very moist and very dark, almost like graphite. Other ashes are dry and gray in color. Our ash maker made some very dry ashes this year.

The morning passed without incident. People would drive up. I would walk the ashes out to their car. They would get out of the car, and I would say “Remember you are dust and to dust you shall return. Repent and believe the gospel.” I made the sign of the cross on their foreheads with the ashes. Because the ashes were dry, the finished product looked more like a smudge than the cross. I knew the recipe needed modification prior to the evening service.

As the morning progressed the wind picked up. One family pulled up and I imposed the ashes on them. They had their pet dog in the car and asked if he could get “ashed” on Ash Wednesday. I’m such a dog fan that I gave the pooch the full treatment. The dog didn’t get ashes, but I laid hands on him and blessed him. They got back in the car and drove off. They told me later the dog seemed to be calmer.

As I walked back into the church I looked down at my ashes. They had blown away. I told you those ashes were dry. I was thankful that I was at the end of my allotted time.

I bring this up because Ash Wednesday is on Valentine’s Day this year. That is always a tough call for those of you who have decided to fast from chocolate during Lent. Many of you will participate in an Imposition of Ashes service. The service is to remind us of our nature. We are dust and to dust we shall return.

It is a solemn and humbling service to officiate. I am reminded that I am mortal. I’m reminded that my friends, whom I love, are also mortal. I really don’t want to think about that. One day, we all end up like my Ash Wednesday ashes: blown away.
Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of the season of Lent. The season of Lent calls us to repentance and preparation for Easter.

The risen Christ of Easter is our seal and promise that Jesus’ followers have eternal life. What seems blown away here on earth is gathered in eternity and made whole and fully alive in Christ. We start with ashes; we end with an empty tomb. It is the amazing story of One who overcame death and the grave and promises to do the same for us.
We tell the story every year because it is still true.

I’m blown away thinking about it.

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There is nothing better that you can do than share the gift of life. Jackson Parish residents will get that opportunity on February 9th when the LifeShare Bus will come to the Jackson Parish Library in Jonesboro and Peoples Bank in Chatham.

Donors in Chatham can give from 9:00 am – 2:00 pm while those in Jonesboro can give from 11:00 am – 1:00 pm. Donors will receive a limited edition Mardi Gras T-Shirt while supplies last.

On Sunday, January 12, 1969, the editorial cartoon in The State, the daily newspaper from Columbia, S.C., was of a young colt smiling and stomping on a jet that was grounded and broken in two.

Both the colt and the airliner had on little helmets with the logos of the teams they
were representing.

That’s how most people figured that day’s Super Bowl III would end, with Baltimore’s Colts of the NFL beating New York’s Jets of the AFL by five or six touchdowns — although the official betting line was 18.

Of course, cocky 25-year-old Joe Namath and the Jets beat Baltimore, 16-7, in Miami. Baltimore’s quarterbacks played a bigger role than Namath: Earl Morrall and Johnny U. combined for four interceptions, two in the end zone and one at the goal line.

The great defensive lineman Fred Miller of Homer, LSU and the Colts, passed away at 82 last February and said until the end that it was that loss to the Jets that troubled him the most, made him angry whenever he thought about it.

I remember it because it was Super Bowl I to me, the first Super Bowl that activates any memory. My pre-10-year-old brain had not been able to register Green Bay’s sweep of Super Bowls I and II.

It was a big year for a kid in a Carolina farming town of 750 to begin realizing that the world expanded beyond Myrtle Beach and Columbia. New York was, I figured, the only team that got to win titles: the Jets won, the Mets beat Baltimore, and the Knicks beat the Los Angeles Lakers that year.

Two more things about 1969. That Super Bowl III lit some sort of sports fire in me, expanded everything. The Baltimore Orioles and their Arkansas third baseman, Brooks Robinson, became my baseball team, and the Birds being upset by the Miracle Mets that October taught me at an early age a bit about love and loss.

The other thing: Willis Reed from Lincoln Parish, who passed away in March of last year at 80, was a bad, bad man (in a good, good way). The former Grambling star limped onto the court before what many call the Greatest Game 7 Ever Played in NBA history, and his inspiring return from injury was the shot the Knicks needed to demolish the visiting Lakers that day to win the title in Madison Square Garden, back when the Garden was Eden. That scene was probably a lot more dynamic in person than on our little black-and-while Sylvania. Or was it a Philco …?

Sports matter.

If you are a sports fan and, like me, nearing the time when Medicare and Social Security are things your friends are reminding you to familiarize yourself with,  you can remember when you could recite every Super Bowl matchup, along with the
score and where it was played.

I can’t do that anymore. (New Orleans 31, Indianapolis 17 in Miami, 2010, is an
exception.)

Used to, the game was the thing. It was actually a really big deal. Halftime shows for Super Bowls I and II were Grambling’s “World Famed Tiger Marching Band,” a bad, bad band (in a good, good way). Today, halftime is an “extravaganza,” the commercials are more anticipated than the contest, and the pregame show is longer than the game. Today it’s Super Bowl parties and prop bets.

Which is fine. Things change. And they needed to. Fred Miller and Willis Reed
were the best at what they did, and they had off-season jobs.

Still fun to remember, though.

Last year, Kansas City beat Philadelphia, 38-35. Great game (I think; had to look it up to remember. Insert confused-face emoji here.) Sunday in Las Vegas, San Francisco is a two-point favorite over Kansas City, an organization playing it its fourth Super Bowl in five seasons.

This bureau will pull for KC because L’Jarius Sneed of Minden and Louisiana Tech plays cornerback for them. If he plays as he has all season, maybe he’ll give us something fun to remember. No matter what, it’s a better bet we’ll be talking about either halftime or a commercial.

Contact Teddy at teddy@latech.edu

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Nothing says I Love You to the woman in your life like a beautiful bouquet of flowers. With Valentines Day fast approaching, thankfully Jackson Parish residents have a great place to go that will make your love the happiest she can be. 

Always Eva Flowers, located at 214 Jimmie Davis Blvd. in Jonesboro is now taking orders for flowers and other gift ideas. Call today at 318-395-5162. Delivery and Pickup is available. 

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The Farmer

God didn’t curse Adam for eating forbidden fruit; he cursed the ground he’d have to work.

“Then to Adam He said, ‘Because you have listened to the voice of your wife, and have eaten from the tree about which I commanded you, saying, ‘You shall not eat from it’;

Cursed is the ground because of you;
With hard labor you shall eat from it
All the days of your life.
Both thorns and thistles it shall grow for you;
Yet you shall eat the plants of the field;
By the sweat of your face
You shall eat bread,
Until you return to the ground,
Because from it you were taken;
For you are dust,
And to dust you shall return. (Genesis 3:17-19 NASB).”

Do you know a farmer?

They diligently work the ground; some might grow wheat for the bread you find at your mom & pop grocery or supermarket. Think of farmers as you pull loaves off the shelves and drop them into grocery carts.

God has not forgotten the farmer or his hard work.

“The Lord will command the blessing for you in your barns and in everything that you put your hand to, and He will bless you in the land that the Lord your God is giving you (Deuteronomy 28:8 NASB).”

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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. 

LEGAL NOTICE

SHERIFF’S SALE

BARCLAYS MORTGAGE TRUST 2021-NPL 1 MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES SERIES 2021- NPL 1, BY U.S.BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS INDENTURE TRUSTEE

# 37088

PARISH OF JACKSON
STATE OF LOUISIANA

PERRY KENNEDY A/KIA PERRY M KENNEDY & BRENDA KENNEDY

By virtue of a Writ of Seizure and Sale issued out of the Honorable Second Judicial District Court, Parish of Jackson, State of Louisiana, and to me directed, I have seized and taken into my possession and will offer for sale for cash at the JACKSON PARISH SHERIFF OFFICE, Jonesboro, Louisiana, on Wednesday, the 27th day of March, 2024. Between the hours governing judicial sales, the following property to wit:

LOTS 3, 4 OF THE ROLLING PINES ESTATES LOCATED IN THE NE 1/4 OF SE, SECTION 2, TOWNSHIP 15 NORTH, RANGE 4 WEST, AS PER PLAT AND ORIGINAL SURVEY OF SAID ROLLING PINES ESTATES NOW ON FILE AND OF RECORD IN THE RECORDERS OFFICE OF JACKSON PARISH, LA, IN PLAT BOOK A, PAGE 89 OF THE RECORDS OF JACKSON PARISH, LA, TOGETHER WITH ALL IMPROVEMENTS AND APPURTENANCES THEREUNTO BELONGING, SITUATED IN JACKSON PARISH, LA. THE FOLLOWING DESCRIBED PROPERTY, TO-WIT: I65-2: LOTS 1 AND 2 OF THE ROLLING PINES ESTATES LOCATED IN NORTHEAST AND SOUTHEAST, SECTION 2, TOWNSHIP 15 NORTH, RANGE 4 WEST, AS PER PLAT AND ORIGINAL SURVEY OF SAID ROLLING PINES ESTATES NOW ON FILE AND OF RECORD IN THE RECORDER’S OFFICE OF JACKSON PARISH, LOUISIANA AT PLAT BOOK A, PAGE 58. TOGETHER WITH ALL IMPROVEMENTS & APPURTENANCES, AND TOGETHER WITH ALL MINERAL RIGHTS.

Seized as the property of the above named defendants and will be sold to satisfy said Writ and all cost, sale to be made for cash with the benefit of appraisal.

ANDY BROWN, SHERIFF
2/14/24
3/20/24
EX-OFFICIO, AUCTIONEER

SHERIFF’S SALE

JPMORGAN CHASE BANK NATIONAL
ASSOCIATION.

# 36115

PARISH OF JACKSON
STATE OF LOUISIANA

JEFFREY JERMAINE BRADFORD
A/KIA JEFFREY J. BRADFORD

By virtue of a Writ of Seizure and Sale issued out of the Honorable Second Judicial District Court, Parish of Jackson, State of Louisiana, and to me directed, I have seized and taken into my possession and will offer for sale for cash at the JACKSON PARISH SHERIFF OFFICE, Jonesboro, Louisiana, on Wednesday, the 27th day of March, 2024. Between the hours governing judicial sales, the following property to wit:
LOT #89-A OF UNIT 4 OF TERRACE HILLS SUBDIVISION TO THE TOWN OF JONESBORO, LOUISIANA, SITUATED IN SECTION 32, TOWNSHIP 15 NORTH, RANGE 3 WEST, AS PER PLAT ON FILE AND OF RECORD IN THE OFFICE OF THE RECORDER OF JACKSON PARISH, LOUISIANA, ALL LOCATED AND SITUATED IN JACKSON PARISH, LOUISIANA, TOGETHER WITH ALL IMPROVEMENTS AND APPURTENANCES THEREUNTO BELONGING.

Seized as the property of the above named defendant and will be sold to satisfy said Writ and all cost, sale to be made for cash WITHOUT the benefit of appraisal.

ANDY BROWN, SHERIFF
02/14/24
03/20/24
EX-OFFICIO, AUCTIONEER

 

 

PUBLIC NOTICE

The Jackson Parish Police Jury is accepting applications for the position of Secretary-Treasurer. 

Applicants must be knowledgeable and proficient in performing all accounting functions in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles, preparation of consolidated budgets, and responsible for compliance with procedures and policies under the jurisdiction of the Louisiana Legislative Auditor.  The Secretary-Treasurer is required to attend all official Police Jury and committee meetings, is responsible for preparing the official minutes of all meetings for publication and adoption, and is responsible for all correspondence conducted on behalf of the Jackson Parish Police Jury.

Minimum Requirements:

Four (4) year college degree in Accounting/Finance; CPA certification preferred; five (5) years direct experience in management and supervision; advanced computer and data processing skills with expertise in Microsoft Office Suite required; proficient in training staff.

Resumes and job applications may be hand-delivered or mailed in a SEALED ENVELOPE marked “Application for Secretary-Treasurer” to the Jackson Parish Police Jury Administrative Building, 160 Industrial Drive, Jonesboro, LA 71251.  No electronic submissions will be accepted.  A detailed job description can be obtained from Police Jury Office or from our website: www.jacksonparishpolicejury.org.

Jackson Parish Police Jury Secretary-Treasurer / Parish Administrator
Job Description

Job Title: Secretary-Treasurer / Parish Administrator
Location: Police Jury Office – 160 Industrial Drive, Jonesboro, LA
Requirements: Four (4) year college degree in Accounting/Finance, CPA certification preferred; five (5) years direct experience in management and supervision; advanced computer and data processing skills required; Class E Driver’s License
FLSA Status: Salary, non-exempt
Work Schedule: 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM (1-hour unpaid lunch break) Monday – Friday unless scheduled for weekend work, plus all Police Jury and associated committee meetings.
On-call, holidays, weekends, overtime, etc. required when necessary

Description:
The Jackson Parish Police Jury appoints this position every two years in accordance with State Law. Must possess knowledge of federal, state, and local laws governing all aspects of local governmental operations; must have excellent oral, written, and interpersonal skills and is responsible for all correspondence conducted on behalf of the Jackson Parish Police Jury. Required to attend all public meetings of the Jackson Parish Police Jury and is responsible for preparing the official minutes of all meetings for publication and adoption. Also serves as Human Resources Manager, Equal Opportunity Officer, and Floodplain Administrator for the Police Jury. This position requires the ability to work without close supervision and possession of industrious work ethic.

Applicants must be knowledgeable and proficient in performing all accounting functions in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles, preparation of consolidated budgets, and responsible for compliance with procedures and policies under the jurisdiction of the Louisiana Legislative Auditor.

Responsibilities:
The responsibilities herein are intended to describe the general nature of work performed by this position, and are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, and skills. Furthermore, they do not establish a contract for employment and are subject to change at the discretion of the Jackson Parish Policy Jury.

Administration (Secretary):
• Officially represent the Police Jury in the coordination and interaction with all outside agencies
• Coordinate with the Police Jury, Officers, Chairmen, etc. to establish public meeting agendas and documentation to be distributed to all members of the Police Jury, draft letters, forms, etc. for President’s signature on all official correspondence
• Prepare standard items and documentation for all Police Jury and Committee meetings including collating prior meeting minutes, reports, purchase orders, and the monthly financial packet
• Serve as custodian of all public records for the Jackson Parish Police Jury; responsible for responding to all public records requests in accordance with state law; responsible for official record keeping of all official proceedings of the Jackson Parish Police Jury
• Prepare official reports to various federal, state, and parish agencies, some concerning departmental activities
• Facilitate the general public relative to standard inquiries and/or grievances
• Have a thorough knowledge of the building permit process, regulations, and rules
• Directly supervise all administrative staff
• Administer over all personnel folders
• Be familiar with the process and all related documents for new hires, terminations, retirements, and other employee changes
• Oversee the annual employee training of ethics and harassment and the state reporting
• Administrate all general liability and accident claims as well as all worker’s compensation claims for all departments
• Be responsible for policy development, payroll and reporting, and maintenance of Parish employee benefit plan and general insurance and worker’s comp plans
• Address and resolve complaints and employee grievances within the Administrative Department
• Coordinate with 3rd party technology firm and assigned IT specialist on cyber security systems and monitoring and the general management of existing networks, email servers, and domains for all offices and departments
• Perform ongoing maintenance and content of the Parish website and Facebook accounts
• Serve as software administrator for all software platforms (financial system, time and attendance system, agendas & minutes system, telephone system, security system, grants portals, etc.)
• Administer over all open bid proceedings including interpreting bid law to determine applicability, proper publishing of public notices in compliance with state law, and attend all bid openings, tabulate results, and prepare the documents for audit inspection
• Possess independent management skills and extensive knowledge in public administration
• Possess qualifications of assertiveness, multi-tasking ability, verbal and written communication skills, grant proposal preparation skills, and interpersonal/human relation skills
• Perform other job-related duties as assigned

Treasurer:
• Directly responsible for the preparation of all financial reports, audits, and financial statements for the Parish of Jackson
• Analyze and report on financial status of the Police Jury; direct preparation of all operating budgets and controls; review of Special Program budgets and controls
• Responsible for all purchasing of investment securities for the Jackson Parish Police Jury
• Monitor and track capital assets, disposals, and physical inventories and calculate depreciation
• Oversee all functions of the financial processes and procedures including, but not limited to, budgeting and forecasting, accounts payable, payroll processing, purchasing, permits and licensing, billing, and bank reconciliations
• Responsible for the monthly and year-end closing process including preparation of adjusting journal entries, bank reconciliations, year-end accruals, budget amendment recommendations, and general financial analysis
• Responsible for grant submissions and related reporting requirements
• Responsible for overseeing the timely filings of all state and federal reporting including 1099s, 1095s, W-2s, and all quarterly and annual payroll reporting
• Capable of performing day-to-day accounting functions when other staff is unavailable such as cash receipts, deposits, accounts payable, payroll, etc.
• Responsible for the design and preparation of cost estimates of small and large construction projects, new programs, capital purchases, etc.
• Preparation of budgets, cost estimates, and damage assessments to be presented to the Police Jury
• Provide requested information to auditors and coordinate with them on financial reporting
• Responsible for the work of others for accuracy and completeness

Distinguishing Characteristics of Job:
This position is a highly responsible classification in the Police Jury organization and is distinguished from other classifications by the skills and knowledge required and the performance of more difficult and complex tasks.
Incumbents in this class are distinguished from other personnel by a greater knowledge of regulations, policies, and procedures. Employees in this class are responsible for the safe and efficient operation of assigned office duties.

Travel:
• Travel is primarily local during the business day, but some overnight travel may be required

Supervisory Responsibilities:
• This position has direct supervision over the Administrative Departments and coordinates with the Operations Manager to oversee and support the Road, Solid Waste, and Maintenance Departments.

Security Requirements:
Must be able to pass a background check and periodic drug screenings. Must be legally able to work in the United State of America.

EEO Statement:
The Jackson Parish Policy Jury provides equal employment opportunity to all individuals regardless of their race, color, creed, religion, gender, age, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by state, federal, or local law.

Other Duties:
Please Note: this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

PUBLIC NOTICE

The Jackson Parish Police Jury is accepting applications for the position of Secretary-Treasurer.  Applicants must be knowledgeable and proficient in performing all accounting functions in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles, preparation of consolidated budgets, and responsible for compliance with procedures and policies under the jurisdiction of the Louisiana Legislative Auditor.  The Secretary-Treasurer is required to attend all official Police Jury and committee meetings, is responsible for preparing the official minutes of all meetings for publication and adoption, and is responsible for all correspondence conducted on behalf of the Jackson Parish Police Jury.

Minimum Requirements:

Four (4) year college degree in Accounting/Finance; CPA certification preferred; five (5) years direct experience in management and supervision; advanced computer and data processing skills with expertise in Microsoft Office Suite required; proficient in training staff.

Resumes and job applications may be hand-delivered or mailed in a SEALED ENVELOPE marked “Application for Secretary-Treasurer” to the Jackson Parish Police Jury Administrative Building, 160 Industrial Drive, Jonesboro, LA 71251.  No electronic submissions will be accepted.  A detailed job description can be obtained from Police Jury Office or from our website: www.jacksonparishpolicejury.org.

Jackson Parish School Board Meeting Minutes
February 5, 2024
Jonesboro, Louisiana

The Jackson Parish School Board met in regular session at 11:00 a.m. on February 5,
2024 at Jackson Parish School Board, 315 Pershing Highway, Jonesboro, La.
The following were present for roll call: Gerry Mims, Wade McBride, Mary Saulters, Rick Barlow, Paulette Belton and Calvin Waggoner
Absent: Dennis Clary
Mary Saulters gave the Invocation.
Paulette Belton led in the Pledge of Allegiance.
The meeting was called to order by Gerry Mims.
Motion was made by Wade McBride seconded by Mary Saulters and carried to approve the minutes as presented from the Regular Scheduled Meeting held on January 18, 2024.
The following Students of the Year, Teachers of the Year and Support Staff of the Year
were recognized:
 Brady Malone – 5
th Grade Student of the Year
 Carlynn Waters – 8
th Grade Student of the Year
 Ella Barr – 12th Grade Student of the Year
 Kristy Walker – Elementary Teacher of the Year
 Cyndi Beaubouef – Middle School Teacher of the Year
 Kolby Patrick – High School Teacher of the Year
 Cole Stevenson – Elementary Outstanding Support Staff Employee
 Nicole Jacobs – Middle School Outstanding Support Staff Employee
 Julie West – High School Outstanding Support Staff Employee
 Kaylie Hightower – Elementary New Teacher of the Year
 Karen Wimberly – Middle School New Teacher of the Year
 Trey Porchay – High School New Teacher of the Year
The Board then recognized Matthew Margaglio from Kolder, Slaven and Company, LLC who presented the 2023 audit.
Mary Saulters reported to the Board on the meeting of the Executive Finance
Committee held prior to the Board meeting.
A motion was made by Gerry Mims, seconded by Mary Saulters and carried to approve for payment the following bills: General Fund, Federal Program, School Food Service, Sales Tax, Special Education, District Maintenance bills.
A motion was made by Rick Barlow, seconded by Paulette Belton and carried approving to pay Employer’s Share of Office of Group Benefits insurance premiums from General Fund for the March 2024 sales tax distribution.
A motion was made by Wade McBride, seconded by Rick Barlow and carried to approve payment to SHI in the amount of $12,549.00 for the renewal of ZOHO Corporation for Network Management for the District 12/21/2023 – 12/21/2024, to be paid from General Fund.
A motion was made by Calvin Waggoner, seconded by Paulette Belton and carried to
approve payment to SHI in the amount of $17,979.35 for the annual renewal of the
Microsoft Campus license 3/1/2024 – 2/28/2025, to be paid from the General fund.
Presentation of Monthly Financial Report by Kristi Bass, Business Manager.
Paulette Belton reported to the Board on the meeting of the Building and Grounds
Committee meeting held prior to the Board meeting.
A motion was made by Mary Saulters, seconded by Wade McBride and carried to
accept low quote of $24,500.00 from Metal Werks to replace roof over Locker Rooms at Quitman High School gym, to be paid from Quitman District funds.
A motion was made by Mary Saulters, seconded by Rick Barlow and carried to accept
low quote of $42,160.00 from Golden Roofing to install a new roof on the Senior High Building at Quitman High School, to be paid from Quitman District funds.
Rick Barlow reported to the Board on the meeting of the Transportation Committee
meeting held prior to the Board meeting.
A motion was made by Calvin Waggoner, seconded by Paulette Belton and carried to
approve out of state travel for Quitman High School students, Madison Taylor and
Cayden Brown to attend the National Beta Convention in Savannah, Georgia on June
16-19. 2024. The Jackson Parish School Board will reimburse for expenses according
to policy IFCB – Field Trips and Excursions.
A motion was made by Mary Saulters, seconded by Rick Barlow and carried to approve out of state travel for Quitman High School students, Hayden Davis and Maddox Duck to attend the High School Fishing World Finals and National Championship in Anderson, South Carolina on June 17 – 22, 2024. Expenses will be paid by students.
A motion was made by Calvin Waggoner, seconded by Paulette Belton and carried to
approve out of state travel for Weston High School students, Molly Beaubouef, Olivia
Otwell, Makayla Johns, James Wall, Abram Toms, Carroll-Anne Foshee, Baylee
Broomfield, Leila Roberts, Raelynn Shell, Alley Hines to attend the National Beta
Convention in Savannah, Georgia on June 16-19, 2024. The students will be transported by their parents. The Jackson Parish School Board will reimburse for
expenses according to policy IFCB – Field Trips and Excursions. 
A motion was made by Mary Saulters, seconded by Wade McBride and carried to adjourn at 11:40 a.m

 

 

Bobby Monroe “Monty” Horton
March 28, 1962 – February 3, 2024

Bobby Monroe “Monty” Horton was born on March 28,1961 in Hodge Louisiana. He departed from this life very unexpectedly at his home on February 3,2024 at the age of 62 years old.

Monty graduated from Jonesboro Hodge High school in 1979. He was born and raised in Quitman, Louisiana and a resident of North Hodge, Louisiana for 40+ years.

He enjoyed traveling with his beautiful wife. He was an avid Nascar fan and was thrilled to drive in the Nascar Experience twice. He became a member of Fellowship Baptist church in May 2004 where he loved singing and served as Minister of Music. He loved fishing and hunting. He also loved being active with his grandchildren.

Known to his coworkers as Monroe, he worked at the Hodge paper mill for 42+ years and had worked up to machine tender on paper machine #4 to which he was very proud to hold such a high position.

He is preceded in death by his father, Bobby Ray Horton of Quitman, La.

Those he leaves to cherish his memory are his loving wife of 10 years Renee (Ramsey) Horton, mother Patsy Horton of Quitman, La and his (3) children; Bobby Monroe Horton Jr “BJ” and wife Sharri of Baton Rouge, La, Michael Shawn Horton of Quitman, La, Tiffany Ann Horton and (Lee) of Quitman, La. (4) bonus children; Daniel Martin of Shreveport, La, Jonathan Martin and wife Miya of Denver, CO, Andrew Martin and wife Fernanda of Shreveport, La, Stephen Martin and wife JoJo of Shreveport, La.
Grandchildren; Cameron Horton and (Araya), Carlie Horton, Jasper Owen, Ashton Plunkett all of Quitman, La. Austin Frazier, Aleah Key and (Mathew) from Baton Rouge, La. Joy Martin, Justus Martin of Denver, CO. Marisol Martin and Hazel Martin both of Shreveport, La.
Great Grandchild Colson Key.
Three brothers; Donnie Horton wife (Susan), Ronnie Horton wife (Joanie), Johnny Horton wife (Melissa) all of Quitman, La. Also a host of nieces and nephews.

Visitation was held on Tuesday February 6, 2024 at Paradise Funeral Home in Jonesboro, La. Funeral Services are set for 11:00am on Wednesday February 7, 2024 at Beech Springs Baptist Church in Quitman, La.
Graveside services will be held at later date.

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The public is invited to help celebrate the grand opening of Jonesboro Senior Village on Tuesday, February 6th. With officials from the town of Jonesboro and Jackson Parish along with representatives from local civic organizations expected to be in attendance, representatives of the development will conduct the traditional ribbon cutting ceremony at 11:30 am. 

The newest edition to affordable housing in Jonesboro was built by Magnolia Construction Group from the design presented by MGM Development Group and being ran by Rampart Property Management.

Located at 129 Jay Odom Way in Jonesboro, the development that comprises of 50 modern, economic friendly and handicap accessible units, will be the new home of seniors from the ages of 55 and up. 

While many of the units have already been leased, applications for residency are still being taken. To arrange an appointment, call Jonesboro Senior Village at (318) 669-4664.

Site Map of Jonesboro Senior Village

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The picture shown above of Bryan Lay was taken roughly a year ago. That was him all by himself at Quitman High School as the sun was setting on a cold January day preparing for the upcoming track season.

Take a drive by the QHS track virtually any day that he is not competing and you will still find him sprinting down the runway, planting the pole and soaring skyward before going over the bar and free falling to the padded landing area below. Over and over again. Day in and day out. 

There is only one difference between now and then.

When this photo was taken Lay was a budding young pole vaulter trying to make his mark on the Class B track and field scene. Now Peanut is recognized as the top high school pole vaulter in the entire state of Louisiana – regardless of classification.

That was achieved on Saturday, when Lay cleared 14′ 10″ at the Last Chance Qualifier meet held in the indoor track complex on the campus of LSU – Baton Rouge shattering his own personal best, Quitman High and Jackson Parish record by an incredible ten inches. 

The record vault marks the fourth time in less than a year and third in less than a month that Peanut has set new career marks and eclipsed school and parish records. Entering into the 2024 indoor track season, the two time Class B state champion had vaulted 13’6″ at the Quitman Relays late in March 2023, to break the previous record that had stood for 60 years. 

On January 20th, Lay broke his own record when he vaulted 13’9″ at the LSU High School Qualifier held at the Carl Maddox Fieldhouse, good for second place in the meet that qualified him for the upcoming Louisiana state indoor meet.

Seven days later Lay traveled to Lake Charles to take part in the McNeese Indoor II High School Invitational. It was there that Peanut achieved his longtime goal of 14 feet, finishing 4th overall but tops among Louisiana High School athletes. That set the stage for this past Saturday’s incredible record shattering performance.

To view Lay making his record breaking vault and the celebratory reaction that followed go to Michelle Lay’s Facebook page. 

Lay voted MileSplit LA Performer of the Week

Bryan Lay’s performance in the McNeese Indoor Relays where he vaulted 14″ 0″ in the pole vault competition for the first time in his career not only caught the eyes of local supporters but apparently raised the eyebrows of high school track and field followers all over the state of Louisiana.

This became obvious when Lay was voted MIleSplit LA Performer of the Week for the final week of January over seven other track and field athletes in the state  by nearly a three-to-one margin over the next closest competitor in the statewide poll conducted by the website. 

Lay earned the honor by collecting 14,559 of the 20,598 total votes cast, far outdistancing Scotlandville High School runner, Corinthian Walker, who was the first half miler to break the 2:00 barrier at the same McNeese Indoor meet. 

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The Jackson Parish Police Jury will hold a Special Meeting on Monday, February 5th. The session will take place at 5:30 pm in the Nathaniel Zeno Jr. Meeting Room of the Jackson Parish Administrative Building, located at 160 Industrial Drive in Jonesboro.

Headlining the agenda will be Police Jury members considering to act on revision of the Secretary/Treasurer job description per Personnel Committee recommendations and to advertise for the Secretary/Treasurer position for 30 days.

NOTE: The revised complete description of Secretary/Treasurer position is listed under Public Notice in the Classifieds Section. 

Additional agenda items include:
1. Consider and act on approving compensatory time for administrative personnel during vacancy of the Secretary/Treasurer position
2. Consider and act on creating a policy pertaining to Police Jury funded, full time employee(s) that works at the Health Unit to follow the state holiday schedule.
3. Consider and approve Solid Waste Superintendent attending Louisiana Solid Waste Association (LSWA) continued education training on March 13-15, 2024.
4. Consider and act on complying with assurances for the Uniform Relocation Assistance & Real Property Acquisition Act. 

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance please contact Brad Roller, Operations Manager at (318) 259 – 2361, Ext.3, describing the assistance that is necessary. 

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