The Jackson Parish School Board is accepting student transfer requests until March 28, 2024. Students in the Jackson Parish School District must attend the school in the attendance zone where they live unless the receiving school has an available seat, based on a teacher to student ratio, in the students’ grade. To request a transfer, parents/guardians must complete the transfer request form that can be obtained at the Jackson Parish School District Central Office, located at 315 Pershing Hwy in Jonesboro or by clicking here. 

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Cooper Delaney of Weston High School has been named to the Louisiana High School Athletic Association (LHSAA) All Academic Composite Baseball Team for 2024.

To be eligible for Composite All-Academic honors, the student-athlete must be a  senior, have competed for at least two years in all classifications and have an un-weighted 4.00 GPA (grade point average) for six semesters. Cooper has maintained a 4.0 GPA throughout his high school career.

 

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After helping the residents of Chatham and Jackson Parish with their banking needs for nearly 45 years, Peoples Bank Senior Vice President, Sandy Spillers, has decided that it is time to step away and enter retirement.

In appreciation of her dedicated service, Peoples Bank, located at 6689 LA Hwy 34 in Chatham, will have an open reception March 28th from 11am-2pm and invites you to come help her celebrate this major milestone.

 

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Only two more weeks left in this contest quarter before the entries are turned over to the staff at Jackson Parish Hospital for voting! Be sure to enter in your photo soon!  Remember, if your photo is not selected as a winner this round, it will continue to roll over into the remaining 2024 contest quarters.

THERE IS NO LIMIT TO THE NUMBER OF PHOTOS THAT YOU CAN ENTER!

The Jackson Parish Hospital Community Photography Contest is a quarterly contest that will result in sixteen winning photos being selected annually through votes by our staff and then put on display, with artist recognition, throughout our facilities. At Jackson Parish Hospital, we care about our patients and our community. JPH is not only committed to supporting the health and well-being of Jackson Parish and the surrounding areas, but also to showcasing the history, beauty, and scenery of our communities through the people who call it home.

Jackson Parish Hospital strongly encourages you to enter into the JPH Community Photography Contest so that our patients, families, visitors, and our staff can admire our community and all of its beauty through your eyes and lenses!

There is no cost to enter; Terms and Conditions apply. See the contest link below for more information.

ourcommunity.jphmd.com

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The official opening date for the greenhouse at Lone Wolf Nursery will be Tuesday, March 19, 2024. Currently available are some huge petunia baskets, coleus pots, and perwinkle flats. Vegetables are still 2 to 3 weeks out from being ready.

All purchases will be on a cash basis only. All money from the sale of these plants is funneled directly back in to the students of the Agriscience and FFA programs at Weston High School.

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The Boys and Girls Club of Jonesboro enjoyed the fruits of their labor on Friday as with proceeds earned through their Calendar Fundraiser they took a trip to  the campus of LSU in Baton Rouge. 

It was a day to remember for the youth of the “McDonald Unit” as they toured Tiger Stadium and the LSU football facilities, watched the defending NCAA national champion LSU ladies basketball team practice, and even got to see the LSU mascot, Mike the Tiger.

The Boys and Girls Club of Jonesboro would like to thank all who supported the “McDonald Unit” through their participation in the Calendar Fundraiser that helped make this special time possible. 

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It was a fun week for the residents of Forest Haven Nursing Home and Rehabilitation Center in Jonesboro as they enjoyed a wide variety of activities highlighted by getting into the upcoming holiday spirit by painting Easter bunnies during arts and crafts time.

Residents also took part in “National Plant a Flower Day” where potted plants and made delicious pies which all enjoyed. The week was made complete when Senior Patrol members from the Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office visited and treated those who participated to a fun game of bingo.

Arts & Crafts

National Plant a Flower Day

Mmmm… Mmmm… Good! 

Bingo with JPSO

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This past Sunday I saw it for the first time. At first, I didn’t know where that dust was
coming from that I found on the windshield when I crawled behind the wheel preparing to head to church. Then I noticed the light golden color of the tiny flecks of dust. It hit me.

Pollen. Pine pollen.

Glancing at the ends of the branches of the hundreds of loblolly pines in my yard, I saw the swollen buds, locked and loaded to dump their load of aggravating yellow dust with no concern as to where their loads would land.

Pine pollen is produced by male pine cones, just trying out their masculinity I suppose. Some people are allergic to pine pollen, the same people are also likely to have allergic reactions to grass pollen. The culprit for most who experience bouts of hay fever in spring comes from pollen produced and released by oaks, hickories, rag weed and other such plants.

My wife enjoys opening the windows during spring to take advantage of nice comforting breezes. However, once the first bit of pollen is seen, she is not happy because this means she has to wait until pollen season ends in a few weeks to be able to open windows. By then, it’s starting to warm up too much to enjoy the pleasant springtime breezes.

Keeping windows open during pollen season is to invite yellow dust to make itself at
home on the couch, chairs, tabletops, carpet, floors et al.

The stuff is indiscriminate; it cares not a bit that when it comes into your home uninvited; it’s like the obnoxious cousin, Randy Quaid in National Lampoon’s Christmas vacation who comes to visit with wife and kids disrupting family plans and is in no hurry to leave.

As much as we despise the hated yellow powder, the Internet has discovered and shares a number of reasons why we should give it some love.

Believe it or not, pine pollen has health benefits with research suggesting pine pollen has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It contains a natural anti-depressant that stimulates dopamine levels in the brain.

Wait, here’s more. Pine pollen can help reduce cholesterol levels and improve
cardiovascular health. Here’s a good one; pine pollen is especially beneficial for men because it contains high levels of testosterone. It can bolster your immunity to anti-aging as well as reducing fatigue, regulating metabolism, lowering blood pressure and protects the liver.

It can be used for the topical treatment of eczema, psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis and other dry, itchy, flaky or inflamed skin conditions.

These research sources are suggesting that maybe we should give pine pollen more love because of all its benefits instead of treating it like a bad case of the flu.

As for me, it’s just too hard to create pleasant pictures in my mind of all the nice things this stuff can do while it’s coating my car, my driveway, my porch with that obnoxious yellow dust.

Even with all this good things pine pollen can do, I still don’t like it.

FISHING REPORT 

CANEY LAKE –Bass are being caught on soft plastics and jigs as they are beginning to move from deeper water to mouth of the creeks. Rat-L-Traps ripped through the grass are picking up some bass with soft plastics, square bills and topwater lures are also working. Crappie are starting to move to the mouth of the creeks setting up for the spawn as water temperatures continue to warm. 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 – Bass are improving fishing spinners and jigs around the trees. Crappie are starting to move to the trees and fishing is improving on shiners or jigs. Contact Honey Hole Tackle Shop 323-8707 for latest information.
BUSSEY BRAKE – Big news on Bussey this week is a new lake record 15.78 pound bass caught by Sid Wilde. Bass fishing continues to improve flipping jigs and soft plastics around brush. Crappie are beginning to move to the shallow flats and are improving on jigs and shiners. For latest information, contact the Honey Hole at 323-8707.
OUACHITA RIVER – Water is still high and muddy but some good catches of crappie and bass are being made back in the sloughs. Bass are fair. For latest information, contact the Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707.
LAKE D’ARBONNE – Crappie are continuing to improve as they are moving into shallow water to begin spawning as soon as water temperatures bump up a few degrees. Bass are on the banks with males getting beds ready for big females which will be moving in soon. No report on catfish or bream this week. For latest information, call Anderson Sport Center at 368-9669 or Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707.
LAKE CLAIBORNE –Crappie are starting to move to the back of the creeks where spawning will soon take place. Bass are moving shallow with some good fish caught on spinners and jigs. Stripers are beginning to show up in open water around Kel’s Cove. No report on catfish. For latest information, call Kel’s Cove at 927-2264 or Terzia Tackle at 278-4498.
LAKE POVERTY POINT – Crappie fishing has been good as they’re starting to move to
shallow spawning areas. Catfishing is good. No report on bass. For latest reports, call Poverty Point Marina at 318/878-0101.
LAKE YUCATAN – The water is falling slowly. Lots of nice catfish are being caught. The
crappie haven’t started biting just yet. For information, call Surplus City Landing at 318/467-2259.

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Due to a recent wave of fraud attempts in the area, local businesses are being encouraged to exercise caution when mailing checks.

A traveling group of scammers are stealing checks from the mailboxes of business, residents, and potentially at the post office. Chief Financial Officer at Louisiana National Bank, Brandon Norris, mentioned that there have been numerous customers who have contacted the bank in regards to losing money from the issue. Norris explained how this is happening.

“Businesses seem to be having their checks stolen from the mail. They issued a check to one of their vendors, to an employee, have put it in the mail. Apparently someone is stealing those checks, reproducing them with what’s called washing. Which means they’re are taking the check, taking the ink off the check and putting in different amounts, different payees and stealing the money.” – Brandon Norris, CFO Louisiana National Bank

For businesses that are looking for added protection from scammers, Norris gave tips on how to avoid being targeted.

“Obviously, not issuing paper checks, moving more money electronically through A-C-H electronic funds transfers or direct deposit for employee payrolls. Most banks offer positive pay, which is an electronic system that matches up a list of checks that are authorized by the business with the check being presented,” said Norris. 

Norris also advised that businesses and individuals check their bank accounts daily and immediately report suspicious activity to the bank.

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During its March meeting in Baton Rouge, the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission (LWFC) approved several amendments to the 2024-25 hunting regulations notice of intent. These amendments cover various aspects of hunting regulations in the state.

The amendments include changes to deer hunting season dates in Deer Area 2, updates to language regarding legal firearms on Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs), authorization for the use of dogs to track mortally wounded deer on private lands, a prohibition on harvesting juvenile turkeys, and the implementation of a deer season high water benchmark closure in portions of East Carroll and Madison parishes near the Mississippi River.

For detailed information on the amendments, the full notice of intent, and all proposed hunting season dates and regulation changes for the upcoming hunting seasons, interested individuals can visit the LWFC website.

LDWF will conduct a public hearing on the proposed amendments on April 22, 2024, at 10 a.m. in the Joe L. Herring Louisiana Room at LDWF headquarters in Baton Rouge. Public comments on the amendments will be accepted until April 30, 2024, and can also be submitted at LWFC’s April 9 meeting.

Comments can be sent directly to Tommy Tuma at LDWF Office of Wildlife, P.O. Box 98000, Baton Rouge, LA, 70898-9000, or via email at ttuma@wlf.la.gov.

The commission will take final action on the notice of intent and the conditionally adopted amendments at its May meeting. Amendments adopted at this meeting will be sent to Legislative Oversight for review. If Oversight makes no changes, the LDWF Secretary will finalize the Rule.

These amendments reflect ongoing efforts to manage and regulate hunting activities in Louisiana while considering the conservation of wildlife and habitats.

For hunting laws & regulations that are simplified & easy to understand, check out our platform, WildAdvisorPro. Also sign up for HuntLink, and have downloadable PDF regulations sent right to your email for remote usage.

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Don’t be in the dark.
The Entergy app helps shed light on outages.
While everything possible to prevent them is done, power outages can happen. That’s why Entergy works hard to bring you helpful information in a quick and easy way.

Get a clear picture with our Outage Map! Just search for an area, or use our GPS to pinpoint your current location. If there’s an outage, you can see how many customers are affected, the outage start time and the estimated restoration time. You can even switch to a satellite view.

See your current status! Want to check the status of your power at your home or business, even if you’re away? You can always do a quick check in the app.

Get timely updates! Enable push notifications to alert you about outages that may affect your service, plus status updates for when power may be restored.

Report an outage! You can also let us know if your power is out in just a few taps. Or you can even report that a street light is out by selecting it on a map.*

Update your app to the latest version, or download it today. 

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Stubborn or Submissive?

Not horse sense; donkey talk…

“Then the LORD opened the mouth of the donkey, and she said to Balaam, ‘What I have done to you, that you have struck me these three times?’ And Balaam said to the donkey, ‘It is because you have made a mockery of me! If only there had been a sword in my hand! For I would have killed you by now!’ But the donkey said to Balaam, ‘Am I not your donkey on which you have ridden all your life to this day? Have I ever been in the habit of doing such a thing to you?’ And he said, ‘No.’

Then the LORD opened Balaam’s eyes, and he saw the angel of the LORD standing in the way with his sword drawn in his hand; and he bowed all the way to the ground. Then the angel of the LORD said to him, ‘Why have you struck your donkey these three times? Behold, I have come out as an adversary, because your way was reckless and contrary to me. But the donkey saw me and turned away from me these three times. If she had not turned away from me, I certainly would have killed you just now, and let her live.’ So Balaam said to the angel of the LORD, ‘I have sinned, for I did not know that you were standing in the way against me. Now then, if it is displeasing to you, I will turn back.’ But the angel of the LORD said to Balaam, ‘Go with the men, but you shall speak only the word that I tell you (Numbers 22:28-35a NASB).”

God will get His messages across. We can be stubborn or submissive.

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State of Purpose:
The Executive Director serves as the chief administrator, providing leadership to staff and directing the CVB operation in order to develop maximum potential of convention and visitor business, thereby bringing the greatest possible economic benefit to the Natchitoches area.

Reports to: Natchitoches Parish Tourist Commission board members.

Degree of Supervision: Monthly review by NPTC Board

Supervision Exercised: Supervises all NPTC employees

Location of Job: Natchitoches Visitors Center, 780 Front Street, Ste 100.

Qualifications:
Graduate of an accredited four year college in the field of Business, Marketing and Public Relations, Hospitality Management or any combination of education and experience to equal five years related experience.

Special Knowledge:
Extensive knowledge of the principles and practices in convention and tourism planning services. Considerable knowledge in the fields of advertising, marketing, public relations, business administration, which includes but not limited to, personnel management, principles of accounting, and excellent communication skills. Must possess the ability to exercise initiative, judgment, tact, and diplomacy in a wide variety of public situations. Position requires frequent travel.

Submit to: Arlene Gould director@natchitoches.com

780 Front Street, Suite 100
Natchitoches, LA 71457
Telephone: 1-800-259-1714
Fax: 1-318-352-2415

DUTIES OF THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR:

• Provide administrative and professional assistance to the Chairman and Commissioners along with the staff of the Tourist Commission and ensure that the board complies with all local, parish, state and/or federal laws and regulations
• Responsible for hiring, termination and training all staff and volunteers.
  Preparation of the annual budget and management of Commission business within the budget.
• Preparation of annual marketing/advertising plan with all advertising potentials outlined in plan.
• Track and prepare all financial data for annual audit or Compilation of Finances by Accounting Firm.
• Represent Natchitoches Parish to national and international audiences by attending consumer and trade shows along with Groups & Tourism Sales Manager.
• Oversee press releases and press packets for local, regional and national media regarding activities along with Marketing & Communications Manager.
• Advise tourism partners with launching festivals, new events and ongoing events with consulting, publicity and advertising.
• Host local, national and international travel writers along with familiarization tours for group tour leaders along with Marketing & Communications Manager.
• Create publicity materials and brochures for distribution to guests, group tour leaders, retirees and newcomer inquiries.
• Work closely with advertising agencies to create ads for regional publications in a timely manner.
• Assist Marketing & Communications Manager with creating story ideas and articles for both regional and national publications.
• Attend meetings of city/parish stakeholders such as City, Chamber of Commerce, Parish Council, HDBA, NHDDC, CRNHA, Christmas Festival and several others including statewide, LTA and LACVB, and regional tourism associations, El Camino Real, No Man’s Land, Holiday Trail of Lights, councils and committees and others.
• Maintain a working relationship with the NSU hospitality program and university students for internships and other assistance to the Commission.
• Assist Groups & Tourism Sales Manager to consult and advise conference meeting holders and large groups visiting Natchitoches.
• Responsible for overseeing meeting notices, recording of minutes, transcribing and typing monthly board minutes, filing, letter writing and other necessary items for a small business office and Executive Director.
• Oversee that all inquiries from potential visitors and tour groups are acknowledged immediately.
• Assist Marketing & Communications Manager with updating websites, social media information with current events and festivals.
• Assist with daily operations as necessary supervising the Travel Counselors and Visitor Center.
• Follow the directions and seek counsel of the Chairman of the Board of
• Natchitoches Parish Tourism Commission, as the immediate supervisor, between Board Meetings.
• Ensure no employees, nor the Executive Director; conduct any personal business on Tourist Commission property, during working hours or with Tourist Commission assets.

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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

SHERIFF’S SALE

21 5 T MORTGAGE CORPORATION

# 37111

PARISH OF JACKSON
STATE OF LOUISIANA

TRACY ALAN ROGE, CANDACE ILENE MILLER
ROGE, CANDACE MILLER ROGE

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 24th day of APRIL, 2024. Between the hours governing judicial sales, the following property to wit:
2022 KABCO MOBILE HOME 32 X 68 BEARING SERIAL NUMBERS KB0215708A22 AND KB0215708B22 AND LOT I AND THE NORTH 70 FEET OF LOT 2 OF THE L.C.HARVEY SUBDIVISION, A SUBDIVISION OF JACKSON PARISH, LA, AS PER PLAT THEREOF FILED IN CONVEYANCE BOOK 98 PACE 442 RECORDS OF JACKSON PARISH TOGETHER WITH ALL BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON.
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
EX-OFFICIO, AUCTIONEER
3/13/24
4/17/24

SHERIFF’S SALE

U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION #
37375

PARISH OF JACKSON
STATE OF LOUISIANA

DUSTYNE C MOBLEY

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 3rd day of April 2024. Between the hours governing judicial sales, the following property to wit:
2020 CHEVROLET TAHOE BEARING VIN: 1GNSCBKC6LR131959
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 WITH the benefit of appraisal.

ANDY BROWN, SHERIFF
EX-OFFICIO, AUCTIONEER

3/20/24

TINA SPILLERS, DEPUTY

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

Advertisement for Vehicle Bid
Jackson Parish Council on the Aging

The Jackson Council on the Aging has declared the following vehicles as surplus and authorize sale of each vehicle separately by sealed bids to the highest bidder. 

2010 Ford Transit
2012 Ford Transit

These vehicles may be inspected Monday-Thursday from 8:30 am – 3:30 pm and on Fridays from 8:30 am – 1:30 pm.

Each vehicle is sold “as is” .

Bids for each vehicle must be submitted in an envelope, clearly marked “Sealed Bid” with year of vehicle. 

Bids should be submitted no later than 3:30 pm on Wednesday, April 24, 2024.

Bids will be opened at 10:00 am on Thursday, April 24, 2024

The Jackson Council on the Aging reserves the right to reject any or all bids.

Village of Chatham Council Meeting Minutes
March 13, 2024

The Chatham Village Council met at its regular meeting on March 13, 2024, with the following present: Mayor Greg Harris, Councilmembers Toni Malone, Mike Wilson, Sue Proffer and Bernadean James; Laverne Mixon was absent.
The meeting was called to order by Mayor Harris.
The pledge was led by Council member Toni Malone and prayer was given by Mayor Harris.
Toni Malone motioned, and Bernadean James seconded and was approved by all to accept the minutes as read of the regular meeting held on February 13, 2024.
Toni Malone motioned, and Bernadean James seconded and was approved by all to pay the monthly bills.
Toni Malone motioned, and Bernadean James seconded and was approved by all to pass Resolution 2024– 02: a resolution authorizing the Village of Chatham to state their intention to maintain permit requirements as set forth by the national pollutant discharge elimination system to prevent wastewater permit violations and other matters with respect thereto.
Toni Malone motioned, and Bernadean James seconded and was approved by all to pass Resolution 2024-03: a resolution to declare certain property owned by the Village of Chatham to be surplus to the Village’s needs and other related matters.
Toni Malone motioned, and Bernadean James seconded and was approved by all to request assistance from the Jackson Parish Police Jury in filling potholes in streets in corporate limits of the Village.
Toni Malone motioned, and Bernadean James seconded and was approved by all to accept the financial statements as presented.
Mike Wilson motioned, and Toni Malone seconded and was approved by all that the meeting be adjourned.

LEGAL NOTICE

Audrey (Upchurch) Johns
June 21, 1930 – March 13, 2024

Audrey (Upchurch) Johns, age 93, passed away on Wednesday, March 13, 2024 after a period of declining health. Visitation will be held at Southern-Edmonds Funeral Home on Monday, March 18, 2024 from 1:30PM ~ 2:30PM in the chapel. Services will be held on Monday, March 18, 2024 at 2:30PM in the chapel. Officiating the services will be Rev. Ronald Harper and Chris Yates. Interment will follow at the Garden of Memories Cemetery in Jonesboro under the direction of Southern-Edmonds Funeral Home.

Mrs. Johns was born in Houston, Texas on June 21, 1930 to Robert G. and Thelma Mary Upchurch. She later moved to Jonesboro where she met and married her husband, Charlie Johns. Together, they owned and operated the Wot-A Burger Drive Inn. She also worked as receptionist at various physician’s offices and businesses in Jonesboro prior to her retirement. She loved reading her Bible and going to church when her health allowed.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Charlie Johns; two sisters, Nadine Trowbridge and Sandra Primrose; one brother, Jack Upchurch; son in law, Richard Sneed; and her parents. She was also preceded in death by two step sisters, Jean McKinney and Evelyn Traina.

Mrs. Johns is survived by one daughter, Kim Coker (Rodney) of Quitman and one son, Charles Johns (Cindy) of Monroe. Five grandchildren, Jennifer McGee (Chris) of Ruston, Justin Sneed (Amanda) of Jonesboro, Lindsey Stevenson (Cole) of Ansley, Darrell Johns (Melanie) of Monroe, Amanda Yates (Chris) of Downsville. She is also survived by 9 great grandchildren; one brother, Robert G. Upchurch as well as a host of nieces and nephews.

Serving the family as pallbearers will be Darrell Johns, Zach Ivy, Justin Sneed, Chris McGee, Cole Stevenson, John Wright Johns.

Marie Hughes Clark
December 11, 1938 – March 5, 2024

Marie Hughes Clark, 85, of Ingleside on the Bay, Texas (formerly of West Monroe, Louisiana) passed away peacefully on March 5, 2024 at the home of her daughter and son-in-law. She was born in Jonesboro, Louisiana on December 11, 1938 to William Carl and Ruth Helen Hughes.

Marie was preceded in death by her husband, Riley F Clark; parents, Carl and Helen Hughes; and all five siblings; sisters, Gertrude Maxwell, Margie Poisso, Avis Sanderson, and Glenda Hughes; brother, J.W. Hughes; and her beloved dog, Prancer, their companion of 18 years (February 5, 2024).

She is survived by her daughter, Connie Amsden (Pat); son, Kelvin Clark (Lodema); grandchildren, Jennifer Amsden Oswald (David), Austin Amsden, Jonathan Amsden (Alicia), Katie Amsden Smith (James), Kelly Amsden Bulot (Brad), Darrell Clark (Angela), and Darren Clark (Amanda); 19 great-grandchildren; 3 1/2 great-great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews; and a host of other family and friends.

Marie graduated from Jonesboro-Hodge High School at the top of her class. She met Riley in school and later became his tutor. They fell in love and married on March 2, 1956. Over the next couple years they welcomed their two children. She stayed home with them until they began school. She then volunteered at the school and was a substitute teacher. She sewed their clothes and canned anything that came from Riley’s garden. She kept a tidy house and could stretch a food dollar as far as it could be stretched. Later she decided to seek employment and worked for H&R Block, Riverwood International, and as secretary at her son’s church.

In retirement, Marie and Riley were dedicated to family, friends, and church. They loved classic TV and going out to eat at every opportunity, especially with their church dinner/devotion group.

In 2015, Marie and Riley relocated to Ingleside on the Bay, Texas so their daughter Connie and son-in-law Pat could care for them in their later years.

Marie had wonderful lifelong friends in Louisiana and cherished their Texas friends in IOB and their church, Ingleside Methodist Church. She loved staying in touch with family and friends and loved her South Texas home.

A graveside service was held on Saturday, March 16, 2024 at Beech Springs Baptist Church Cemetery in Quitman, Louisiana, under the direction of Southern-Edmonds Funeral Home of Jonesboro. The officiant was Jimmy Poisso. Serving as pallbearers were Austin Amsden, Darrell Clark, Darren Clark, David Oswald, Daniel Copes and Pat Amsden.

An additional memorial service will be on March 23, 2024 at 4:00 pm at Ingleside Methodist Church, Ingleside, Texas.

 

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Early voting will continue in Jackson Parish for Presidential  Preference and Municipal Primary Elections until 6:00 pm on Saturday, March 16th. The regular election date is Saturday, March 23rd. 

Sample ballots show that voters in Jackson Parish have the opportunity to make choices for who they want as the Democratic and Republican Nominee for President of the United States. Also those in  RSCC District 35F will get to choose who they want to be member.

Presidential Nominee — Democratic Party
Joseph R. Biden, Jr. 
“Bob” Ely 
“Frankie” Lozada
Stephen P. Lyons
Armando “Mando” Perez-Serrato
Dean Phillips
Cenk Uygur
Marianne Williamson 

Presidential Nominee — Republican Party

Ryan L. Binkley
“Chris” Christie
“Ron” DeSantis
Nikki Haley
Asa Hutchinson
Vivek Ramaswamy
David Stuckenberg
Rachel Hannah “MoHawk” Swift
Donald J. Trump

RSCC Member District 35F 

Gary Nunn (Republican)
Blake Wheelis (Republican)

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By beating Weston on Monday and Castor the following day, the Lady Wolverines ran their unbeaten string to 11 straight district 1B contests and secured their fifth straight district championship. Weston beat tournament host Doyline to finish in a tie with Castor, who also beat Doyline, for second place. 

Quitman 17 Weston 6: At the end of 5 1/2 innings the score was 9-6 but Quitman put the game away by scoring 8 runs in the bottom of the fifth to win the opener of the 1B tournament for both teams.  The Lady Wolverines broke on top by a 9-0 margin but Weston scored four in the top of the fourth and two more in the top of the fifth to make the game close. Cali Deal, Madison Chaplin and Briley Bowers all knocked three runs in, while Kinsley Ponder and Allie Fenn chipped in with two RBI each for Quitman. Molly Beaubouef and Carly Jo Griffin had two RBI each for Weston. Chaplin led the way in runs scored with 3 for Quitman, while Karly Huckaby, Brenna Lamkin, Bowers and Anna Leach all scored twice. Griffin crossed home plate two times to lead the Lady Wolves as 16 players total scored for both teams. 

TEAM	1	2	3	4	5	R	H	E
Weston (3-11, 0-1)	0	0	0	4	2	6	6	4
Quitman (15-2, 1-0)	1	4	4	0	8	17	14	1

Quitman 10 Castor 0: Cali Deal struck out 12 Castor batters and threw her second no-hitter of the year to secure the championship for the Lady Wolverines. Zoee Williams, who had a season best 3 RBI, and Maggie Guyotte both got a pair of hits including a double each and Taylor Harvey hit her first triple of the year and knocked in a season best 2 runs. Hallie Kate Pullig also had a big game with a hit and a walk while scoring two and knocking in two more runs. Madison Chaplin walked three times, stole three bases and scored three runs and Karley Huckaby got a hit, RBI and scored a run. Anna Leach also contributed a run. 

TEAM	1	2	3	4	5	R	H	E
Castor (6-4, 1-1)	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	3
Quitman (16-2, 2-0)	4	4	0	0	2	10	7	0

Weston 19 Doyline 11: By pounding out 15 hits and getting on 17 times by either walks or hit batters, the Lady Wolves scored in all seven innings to secure a tie for second place in district 1B play. Carlynn Waters had a day to remember, with a career best four hits, including a pair of doubles, and three RBI, while also scoring three runs and swiping a base to lead the offense. Molly Beaubouef also got on base four times with three hits, 2 RBI and a run scored.  Raelynn Shell and Keeley Davis both scored three runs and had two hits as did Jaylin Williams. Carly Jo Griffin added a hit, knocked in two and scored three times as well. 

TEAM	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	R	H	E
Weston (4-11, 1-1)	4	1	1	4	3	1	5	19	15	5
Doyline (5-6, 0-2)	0	1	5	0	1	3	1	11	9	2

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A’llohna (A.J.) Gray of Quitman High School and Jordan Williams from Saline have been selected to the composite LHSAA Academic All-State team in girls basketball. This marks the second year in a row the pair have earned the elite distinction. To earn Composite Team honors, a student-athlete’s six-semester GPA must have an un-weighted 4.00. These students cannot even have an “B” on their transcript.

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By finishing in the top three of their category at the District Competition, five students from Weston High School qualified to compete at the Louisiana State Literary Rally that will be held on March 23rd on the LSU campus in Baton Rouge.

Weston High School District Rally Winners

1st Place – Cory Tucker (Algebra II)
1st Place – Penelope Ferguson (Family & Consumer Science)
1st Place – Meredith Turner (Financial Literacy)

3rd Place – Cejay Colvin (U.S. History)
3rd Place – Kason Roberts (World Geography)

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You could call it a  “blue” Monday for all three Jackson Parish high school baseball teams and it doesn’t refer to blue skies but rather the way JHHS, Quitman and Weston felt after their games. For JHHS and Quitman, Tuesday wasn’t any better but Weston managed to salvage one of the six games played over the two days by beating  Alexandria Senior High School in their second game in two days against teams from district 2-5A. 

The tough two days did a number on the rankings for all three schools as Weston and Quitman fell to #5 and #6 respectively in Division V while JHHS dropped all the way to #35 in Division IV. 

Calvin 18 JHHS 8 (Monday) – Six runs in the top of the fourth inning gave JHHS a 7-3 lead but Calvin plated 8 in the bottom of the frame and added 7 more over the next two innings to win by the “10 run” rule. The Tigers outhit Calvin 9-8, and had three extra base hits to just one for the Cougars but six errors, two hit batters and 16 walks were to much to overcome.   

Logan Smith blasted the first home run of the year for the Tigers and Waylon Evans and Marquis Baker both dropped in doubles as part of the nine hits JHHS got. Dakota Knox and Trey Trosclair both got a pair of hits while Duke Tew got a hit, drove two in and scored a run. 

TEAM	1	2	3	4	5	6	R	H	E
JHHS (1-6)	0	0	1	6	1	0	8	9	6
Calvin (3-5)	2	0	1	8	2	5	18	8	5

Castor 7 JHHS 4 (Tuesday): After spotting Castor to a 2-0 lead, JHHS plated four in the top of the second to take a 4-2 advantage but once again the Tigers fell late. Pierce Ulloa got the scoring started for the Tigers by hitting a single followed by both Landson Boston and Dakota Knox getting hit by a pitch. John Self then hit a single to drive in a run before Waylon Evans became the third batter in the inning to get plunked. Trey Trosclair then singled to drive in two more. Marquis Baker hit a double for the second game in a row. 

TEAM	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	R	H	E
JHHS (1-7)	0	4	0	0	0	0	0	4	9	3
Castor (3-7)	2	2	2	0	1	0	x	7	6	1

Minden 5 Quitman 4 (Monday): A seventh inning rally came up short as after scoring twice to pull within one run the Wolverines left the two on. Maddox Duck reached on an error, Hudson Pullig and Kace West singled and the Riley Duck walked, representing the winning run but Minden pitching struck out the next two batters to end the rally. Braden Hobbs got two hits and Ian Tilley got three as both hit doubles for the Wolverines.

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

Airline 3 Quitman 0: The Wolverines managed just four singles against Airline pitching, as Quitman failed to score for the first time this season. Logan Ponder, who got one of the hits was the hard luck loser, after giving up just five hits and two earned runs in six innings of work. Hudson Pullig, led the offense by getting on base three times with two walks and a single and stealing a base, while Ian Tilley also got a hit and drew a walk. Maddox Duck hit the final single and Cail King drew a walk to round out the QHS baserunners. 

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

West Ouachita 8 Weston 1 (Monday) – Dueces were wild for West Ouachita as they scored two runs in each of the first four innings while limiting the Wolves to just one in the fourth inning when Bryce Zehr doubled in Tait Culpepper. Weston also got doubles from Drew Williams and Drew Browning.

TEAM	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	R	H	E
Weston (7-8)	0	0	0	1	0	0	0	1	8	1
West Ouachita (5-7)	2	2	2	2	0	0	x	8	9	1

Weston 14 ASH 6: A six spot in the top of the first followed by five more runs over the next two innings gave Weston a split of their back-to-back contests against schools from district 2-5A. Weston pounded out 15 hits with Tait Henderson and Drew Browning taking honors with four hits and drawing a base on balls. Braden Theriot, JTy Henderson and Jacob Gill, who had the only extra base hit with a double, got two hits apiece. Colton Blundell contributed a single and 2 RBI while Cooper Delaney walked 3 times and Cole Tolar coaxed two more base on balls, while also getting hit by a pitch. Cooper Delaney got the win, giving up just three hits and no earned runs in six innings. The victory ended a four game losing streak and evened the Wolves record to 8-8 on the year. 

TEAM	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	R	H	E
Weston (8-8)	6	1	4	0	1	0	2	14	15	1
ASH (8-5)	0	3	0	0	0	0	3	6	4	6

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The girls and boys track teams at Quitman High School served notice that they are going to be a force among “small schools” this spring, as the girls won 1st place and the boys came in 2nd at the 2024 Raising Cane’s Small School Track Classic. Thirty schools took part in the meet that was held this past Thursday, March 7th on the campus of Many High School.

In all, the two QHS squads reached the podium for finishing first, second or third in an event 21 times with 8 gold medals, 9 silver medals and 4 bronze medals won. Earning special recognition was Kaleigh King, who after winning 1st place in the 100M and 300M hurdles , 1st place in the pole vault and running a leg on the second place finishing 4×200 relay team was named Most Valuable Performer in the girls division.

Gold Medal Winners (First Place)
Kaleigh King – 100M Hurdles
Kaleigh King – 300 M Hurdles
Kaleigh King – Pole Vault
Nathan Harvey – 110M Hurdles
Nathan Harvey – 300M Hurdles
4x400M Relay (Boys) – Nathan Harvey, Jayden Harts, Tyler Lay, Gage Horton
Pole Vault – Bryan “Peanut” Lay

Silver Medal Winners (Second Place)
Gage Horton – 800 M
Kinley Walker – 800M
Gage Horton – 1600M
Morgan Cheatwood – 3200M
Taylor Borland – 100M Hurdles
Taylor Borland – 300M Hurdles
Emayshia Wiley – 200M
4x200M relay (Girls) Maddie Giddens, Sunni Altheimer, Emayshia Wiley, Kaleigh King
4×400 m relay (Girls) Rylee Kelley, Kinley Walker, Sunni Altheimer, Emayshia Wiley

Bronze Medal Winners (3rd Place)
Megan Kelley – 3200M
Rylee Kelley – 400M
Taylor Borland – Pole Vault
Abel Leach – Javelin

Additional Point Earners (4th, 5th or 6th Place) 

4th Place Finishers
4×100 relay(Girls) Maddie Giddens, Sunni Altheimer, Emayshia Wiley, Taylor Borland
AJ Gray – Discus

5th Place Finishers
Megan Kelley – 1600M
Jayden Harts – Long Jump
Jana Potts – Shot Put

6th Place Finishers
James Brown – 3200M
Lily Kate Odom – Triple Jump

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You sports fans know we’re in the Crossover Season. Lots of moving parts.

In the pros, baseball is in spring training, the NFL is in trade/arbitration/free agency/pass-the-blame offseason, and the NBA is nearing the start of its third trimester.

Yawn…

Then there is college, where campuses might not have enough fans to go around.

Tennis.

Track and field.

Softball and baseball.

Bowling.

For some, beach volleyball. (We see you waving goodbye, Pac-12.)

Golf, for sure.

And in the Cucumber States, pickle ball. (Well, maybe one day …)

But Crossover Season has just one Real Season, one that counts, and everybody who’s ever been in a gymnasium knows that.

It’s college basketball. Until March Madness is over, it’s tough to make more than a token investment in anything else.

The men’s tournament started with eight teams in 1939 and grew with television, to 16 teams in 1951, to 64 in 1985, and eventually 67 games and 68 teams, from the First Four to the Final Four.

The women’s game and ultimately the tournament began to grow in the early 1980s. Check this out: the first Division 1 NCAA women’s champion defeated Cheyney State, 76-62, in 1982 in The Scope in Norfolk, Va. That would have been Louisiana Tech. Hometown team Old Dominion had been upset in the East Regional Semifinals, so the announced sellout crowd of 9,000-plus, thanks to corporate locals buying bunches of tickets, was a bit smaller than that.

TV ratings — CBS televised the title game as part of their contract with the men’s tournament — were miniscule. Still, the ball was rolling, and the Lady Techsters were the bunch that first kicked it down the road.

So Tech won the first one.

And the most recent Division I NCAA women’s champion, if memory serves, is LSU, a 102-85 winner over Iowa in the highest scoring final in the tournament’s history. That game was played before an announced crowd of 19,842 — and most of them were actually there — in the American Airlines Center in Dallas. ESPN viewership was nearly 10 million, a 100 percent increase over the year before.

Good times.

So now the March action is twice the fun for those who are fans of both sports. If you are a fan of only one, that’s enough. That’s how good this tournament-times-two is.

I have not, as a writer, covered an NCAA Tournament beginning-to-end in a hard-to-believe 34 years. So when I write about things that happened in the mid-1980s, let’s say, it would be like me, back then, writing about the tournament as it was in the early-1950s.

In other words, names I’d type today about those 1980s times — names like Loyola Marymount, Bobby Cremins, Bucknell, St. Bonaventure, Bob Knight and Dick Tarrant — would be like me going back 30-plus years then and typing Canisius and Bradley and Clarence Iba and Slats Gill, Phil Woolpert and Adolph Rupp and a youngish John Wooden. Bill Russell and B.H. Born.

Go much further back and you’re talking peach baskets and a jump ball after every made basket.

Time is the great mystery.

Things change. But that Thursday and Friday the first week of the tournament, four games in one day at each site, that’s the best Daily Double of the year.

And always the surprises, in a tournament that’s proven timeless.

Contact Teddy at teddy@latech.edu

 

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It is never to early to prepare for next year, especially when it comes to school sports. This past Friday, Jonesboro-Hodge Elementary School got a head start on the 2024-25 school year by announcing the members of the boys and girls basketball teams and cheerleaders for next fall and spring.