Last week I journeyed to Illinois. It was one of those nine hour and fifty-eight-minute drives. You would think the navigation system in a car would round the number up and say ten hours. The route of travel was not bad. I was on the interstate for 550 of the 600-mile drive.

I knew that the last fifty miles would be on a two laned highway. As I write, I am growing nostalgic about those folding maps families kept in their car. Funny thing about those maps, you never could quite fold them back the way they unfolded. Now the map is digital in our dash. When we make a wrong turn, they tell us, “Recalculating.”

The drive took me across the Mississippi River three times. I traveled through Louisiana, Mississippi, Arkansas, Missouri, and Illinois. I did not leave Ruston until about 1:00 p.m. on Monday. I knew I would arrive late in the evening. I channeled my inner graduate school staying up late at night memory, grabbed a water bottle, chocolate, and set off.

The navigation system recalculated the route and downloaded from the cloud multiple times during the drive. I should have guessed that something was up. About 10:00 p.m. the nice navigation lady told me to exit I-57 at an exit called Benton. My tired brain thought, “this is the beginning of the two-lane road.” My graduate school brain warned me that “this is an unauthorized short cut.” Being tired I decided to trust my car. The navigation system had led me this far, no doubting it now.

I dutifully got off the Benton exit and headed east through the farmland of Illinois. The route of travel took me to a circle around the local courthouse. If you have ever been to Homer, you have done this. I thought, no sweat. I entered the circle and started around. The lady navigator told me to take the first right. I took it. Then I was instructed to take the first left. I took it. Another left at the next block. She instructed me to take two more left turns. You know where I ended up, don’t you? Draw it in the air!

Ok, if you do not air draw, I ended up in front of the same courthouse. I decided to do it again and maybe I had missed a left turn. Same instructions, same destination! I thought, the third time must be the charm. I enlarged the map on the screen in my car. I drove slowly so I could make sure I was taking the right streets when the left turns approached.

This third time she changed her instructions. She gave me the right turn and two left turns. She told me at the end of the road, turn right onto the ramp for I-57. Was she laughing behind my dashboard? Had she fallen asleep and was not paying attention to her map? Had she lost her mind? The nice navigation lady got me off the Interstate so she could drive me around a courthouse in Benton, Illinois. Had she made a date with an Acura and the car stood her up?

I will never know. But I did three laps around that courthouse and then like it never happened the nice navigating lady put me right back on the Interstate.
The lesson is simple, watch who you follow. Jesus said, “I am the WAY and the truth and the life, no one comes to the Father but by me.” You can trust Jesus to lead you to the path of life. All others, I suggest you trust after verifying.

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The Young Women’s Ministry of Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church send an invitation to join them the Saturday from 10:00 am – 12:00 pm (noon) as the present the “Spring into Health” Community Health Fair”. The event will take place in the Fellowship Hall of the church, located at 1717 Bethune Street in East Hodge, LA. 

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In 1945, John Paul “Johnny” Sarkisian met Jackie Jean Crouch. Jackie was born in Kensett, Arkansas in 1926. Early on, Jackie’s father recognized that Jackie had singing talent. When she was 7 years old, Jackie began singing on local radio in Arkansas. When she was 10 years old, she sang with Bob Will and his Texas Playboys. In 1938, twelve-year-old Jackie won a statewide talent contest. To give Jackie a better chance than she would have in Arkansas, her father moved them to Los Angeles, California where Jackie enrolled in drama school. “I was born Jackie Jean Crouch,” she said, “and I thought it was a cute name until I came to California, and they called me a dumb Okie.” Tiring of the snide comments, Jackie adopted the stage name Georgia Pelham in honor of a deceased friend.

On June 22, 1945, Georgia married Johnny in Reno, Nevada. Both were 19 years old. Some sources said they broke up the following day, then got back together, then broke up again. It seems to have been a pattern for their relationship. During one of their times together, Georgia became pregnant. She and Johnny had decided to have an abortion. Nearing the point of no return, Georgia changed her mind in the clinic just minutes before the operation. On May 20, 1946, Georgia gave birth to a healthy baby girl they named Cherilyn because Lana Turner, her idol, had named her daughter Cheryl. Georgia and Johnny’s relationship ended for good soon after their daughter was born. Georgia said later, “I worked in an all-night diner from 7 at night until 7 in the morning for $3. Then I got a singing job in a bar and grill, a real dump, but in 1946 it paid $75 a week. That was a lot.”

In August 1947, Georgia, then a 21-year-old divorcee, was among the 32 entrants in the JamboReno Beauty Contest in Reno, Nevada. Out of the 32 contestants, Hollywood beauty contest specialist Earl Carroll crowned Georgia the winner of the contest and presented her with a $750 cash prize. Georgia then got several acting jobs in television commercials. In 1949, Georgia was one of three winners of the Jack Carson scholarship which allowed her to continue studying at Ben Bard’s drama school. Actor Jack Carson received top billing in “Romance on the High Seas,” a film which also starred Doris Day. He received second billing behind Cary Grant on Frank Capra’s “Arsenic and Old Lace.” He starred in over 130 productions from the 1930s to the 1960s. Jack Carson began his acting career by studying with Ben Bard. To show his appreciation, Jack Carson sponsored scholarship awards for up-and-coming actors and actresses to study under Ben Bard.

In April 1949, 15 candidates including Georgia Pelham entered the 8th annual Los Angeles Holiday on Wings” beauty contest, and Georgia won the competition. In 1950, Georgia auditioned for a part in the John Huston film “The Asphalt Jungle.” Georgia charmed her way through the audition and got the part. Well, that’s what they told her anyway. Georgia learned later that another newcomer got the part. Like Georgia, whose real middle name was Jean, the part went to another actress whose real middle name was Jean. Norma Jean Baker. You know… Marilyn Monroe. In that same year, Georgia appeared in her first film, “A Life of Her Own.” By 1952, she had had small, uncredited roles in five films. In 1955, she appeared in an episode of “The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet.” She appeared in the “I Love Lucy” episode “Lucy Gets a Paris Gown.” She acted in several other small roles, but she just never broke through in Hollywood. Georgia’s personal life was difficult as well. In addition to Johnny, Georgia was married to at least five other men, and, with John Southall, had a daughter they named Georganne. In 1961, Georgia married Gilbert Hartmann LaPiere. Soon after their marriage, Gilbert legally adopted Georgia’s two daughters and their last names legally became LaPiere.

In 1962, Georgia’s 16-year-old daughter dropped out of school and left home. Cherilyn had wanted to be famous since her childhood, but she felt that she was unattractive and untalented. She said later, “I couldn’t think of anything that I could do. I didn’t think I’d be a singer or dancer. I just thought, well, I’ll be famous. That was my goal.” After leaving home, Cherilyn danced in small clubs on Hollywood’s Sunset Strip and took acting classes. She introduced herself to anyone she could to get a break. In November of that year, she got a big break and became… a housekeeper. She became the housekeeper for…Sonny Bono. You know Cherilyn Sarkisian LaPiere as Cher. Can you imagine if Georgia had gone through with the abortion?

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Looking for something to do with the family this Wednesday and Saturday where you don’t have to make a long trip and doesn’t cost anything? Then make plans to come to the Library Studio of the Chatham Branch of the Jackson Parish Library, located at 1500 Pine Street in Chatham and catch not one, but two, feature films. On Thursday at 4:30 pm, there is also a special Easter related activity scheduled for the Teen’s and Tween’s. You can register at the front desk, call or simply come by to take part. 

MOVIE MANIA

“Tyson’s Run” is the first film that will be shown at 2:00 pm on Wednesday, March 13th. This will be followed by the animated film “Migration” shown at 10am on Saturday, March 16th.

TEEN’S AND TWEEN’S

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Jackson Parish represented well at the Rayville Junior High Track Meet that was ran this past week as Jonesboro-Hodge Middle School finished in second place overall and Quitman Junior High scored in 10 events. Eleven times JHMS went to the podium as result of winning gold medal in 4 events, coming in second place in 6 more and taking one third place finish while QJH finished first, second or third in six events and earned points in four others. 

J-HMS Medal Winners

Gold Medal (First Place)
Greg Howard – 200 Meters
Derryn Osbourne – Long Jump
4×100 Relay – Jakhoriell lard, Lakayla Miguire, Derryn Osbourne, Carmon Livingston
4×400 Relay -Phynix Johnson, Kerriana Thompson, Samaria Candler, Syla Malone

Silver Medal (Second Place)
Carmon Livingston – 100 Meters
King Cambell – 100M Hurdles
Simone Mallard – 300 Meters
Derryn Osbourne – Triple Jump
Lakayla Miguire – Long Jump
4×200 Relay – Jakhoriell lard, Lakayla Miguire, Derryn Osbourne, Mariah Harland

Bronze Medal (Third Place) 
Carmon Livingston – 200 Meters

Quitman Jr. High Medal Winners 

Gold Medal (First Place)
Sophia Kliebert – High Jump

Silver Medal (Second Place)
Eli Jackson – Shot Put

Bronze Medal (3rd Place)
Anna Pardue – Javelin
Bella Caskey – 800M
Teyton Narron – 1600M
Girls 4×100 Relay -Presley King, Skyleigh Webb, London Burks, Sunni Altheimer

4th Place Finishers
Mathew Odom – 800M
Addi Faber – 1600M
Mathew Odom – 1600M

5th Place Finisher
Hayden Bryant – Long Jump

6th Place Finisher
Addi Faber – 800M

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In previous articles I’ve talked about how anglers question themselves after a bass tournament. Bass fishermen are their own worse critics when it comes to how they performed. While I still go into every tournament wanting to win, the reality is I probably won’t. But I do feel I’m still good enough to make the Top 10! My effort and heart are still there, and I’ll do my homework before each event, but I’m continuously reminded that this is a young man’s sport. Today is my perspective on what happened after my recent ABA Solo 150 15th place finish at Lake of the Pines in East Texas.

Today’s tournament anglers are very good at catching bass. It all starts with the equipment they are using today. Fishing reels are so much more advanced today than when I first started tournament fishing back in 1990. Reels that we used to consider high speed with a 7:1:1 gear ratio have been replaced by super high-speed reels with a gear ratio of 10:1. The fishing rods also are state of the art with so many different designs for every type of fishing known to man. Many rods today are so sensitive you can actually feel every single pebble on the bottom of the lake.

So, with all this great equipment, why is it that everyone is not a great angler? In my opinion, it’s just like any other sport. Some anglers are just naturally better and more talented than others. The days of someone getting lucky to win a tournament are long gone! Anglers still must do their homework, spend time on the water and pre-fish before each event.

For this Lake of the Pines ABA Solo 150 Tour event, I made several trips to the Pines to scout weeks before the tournament. Of my first three previous trips leading up to the week of the event, I was catching not just a lot of fish, but quality as well. I was feeling pretty good about being able to have a Top 10 finish. Then tournament week rolled around and all the time and effort I had put in was all for naught, or was it?

One thing about early spring bass fishing is conditions can change almost daily. It might be the hardest time of year to pattern fish since conditions are constantly changing with passing cold fronts. This time of year, bass are constantly on the move looking to head for shallow water to spawn. For this event, I had what I thought was a good area where I felt bass would stage before coming in for the spawn. These spots can be a true honey hole and can put an angler in great position to do very well.

But that did not happen for me on this event, and I had to adjust my game plan and go to plan B early on day 1. But that’s what tournament bass fishing is all about….making adjustments. Long story short, I managed to bang out a 5-fish limit just shy of 17 lbs. on day one. Now for 80% of most events, this would be considered a great start. I felt confident I would be in the Top 10 for sure or maybe the Top 7.

Wrong!!! After all anglers weighed in on day 1, I was sitting in 12th place. Now that’s nothing to be ashamed of, but two of my competitors caught over 25 lbs., with one over 27. After the shock was over, I asked myself, “What the heck am I doing wrong?” I knew that the anglers who were leading were really good anglers, but I was heading into final day with a 10-pound deficit. I knew that there was no way I could make up that kind of ground on this group of anglers.

But day 2 for me was not very good as I struggled to get a limit of about 11 lbs. in the boat before 11:30 that morning. It was a small limit, but I continued to put my head down and fish hard hoping to get two or three quality bites (four or five pounders) that might put me in range to maybe get a check. As day two came to a close, I ended this event in 15th place overall.

Over my 34 years of tournament fishing, I have logged in thousands of hours on the water looking for those little green fish we call bass. While I still have the desire to compete and win an event, I’m a realist as well. These young anglers today are good, and I mean really good, especially with today’s advanced electronics. They are just better than me and that’s hard for me to say!

But one thing I have come to terms with is that at the age of 62, and a melanoma diagnosis that so far I have overcome. I’m happy to be able to wet a hook and continue to fish on a competitive level. It’s funny how your perspective changes when life throws you a curve ball and reminds you how precious it is to have our health. Winning is no longer that important. What is important is that I still enjoy the camaraderie we anglers share as a group. It’s the friends I’ve made because of bass fishing that makes it all worthwhile.

Till next time, good luck, good fishing and make sure to check out Tackle Talk Live podcast, as well as the Hook’N Up & Track’N Down Show on You Tube.

Steve Graf
Angler’s Perspective

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Happy Birthday to you! Happy Birthday to you! Happy Birthday, Happy Birthday, Happy Birthday to you! – AND MANY MORE!!!!!!!

If you were in the festive spirit you sang the jingle above instead of just read it. You can rest assured that the administration and staff along with resident friends were in the singing spirit this past week as six Forest Haven Nursing Home residents celebrated their birthdays. Enjoying their special day was:

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

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Members of 4-H clubs from across five parishes, including seven from Jackson Parish,  participated in their first ever Grilling Camp this weekend, fondly referred to as “Beast Feast 2024.

They started their adventure on Friday at the LA Tech Meat Sciences Lab where they spent the day with   Dr. Murphy and Mr. Gordon, toured the processing plant and learned about carcass grades and how they affect the foods that are grilled.

The group then spent the rest of their day grilling and sampling different types and cuts of meat from hamburgers to pork chops to sausage to lamb and ribs. After a great day at LA Tech, the grilling teams headed out to Jimmy Davis State Park to continue their adventures until Sunday morning.

The 4-H’ers created meals using skills they learned over the weekend including food safety, knife skills, seasoning, marinating, charcoal grilling, and plating while also enjoying some lake time, camp fires, and the ever endearing s’mores roasting. Beast Feast 2024 was a success. New friends, fun memories, and life skills were made by all. 4-H… Making the Best, BETTER… one life experience at a time!

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Mend My Ways

Bat Masterson wielded power with his walking stick. His power paled in comparison to that of the LORD Almighty. He used staffs to silence sounds of grumbling.

“And the staff of the man whom I choose shall sprout. Thus I will make to cease from me the grumblings of the people of Israel, which they grumble against you.’ Moses spoke to the people of Israel. And all their chiefs gave him staffs, one for each chief, according to their fathers’ houses, twelve staffs. And the staff of Aaron was among their staffs. And Moses deposited the staffs before the Lord in the tent of the testimony (Numbers 17:5-7 ESV).”

Aaron was God’s chosen priest and the LORD used his staff as a sign of authority.

“On the next day Moses went into the tent of the testimony, and behold, the staff of Aaron for the house of Levi had sprouted and put forth buds and produced blossoms, and it bore ripe almonds. Then Moses brought out all the staffs from before the Lord to all the people of Israel. And they looked, and each man took his staff. And the Lord said to Moses, ‘Put back the staff of Aaron before the testimony, to be kept as a sign for the rebels, that you may make an end of their grumblings against me, lest they die (Numbers 17:8-10 ESV).”

Do you ever grumble? I’m sorry to say that I do.

“Do all things without grumbling or disputing (Philippians 2:14 ESV).”

It’s time to mend my ways…

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This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named or shown in photographs or video as suspects in a criminal investigation, or arrested and charged with a crime, have not been convicted of any criminal offense and are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Bryan Christman (Chatham, LA) – Warrant from Ouachita Parish, Theft
Benjamin O. Babers Jr. (Saline, LA) – Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Distribute, Illegal Display of Plates, Possession of Firearm by a Convicted Felon
Kristen L. Sharboro (Chatman, LA) – Bench Warrant on Possession of Schedule III Charge
Henry Bradley Jr. (Jonesboro, LA) – Resisting an Officer, Improper Lane
James A. Frith (Chatham, LA) – Domestic Abuse Battery
Mattamard Dunn-Jackson (Jonesboro, LA) – Battery of a Correctional Officer
Mark A. Hunter (Grambling, LA) – Jackson Parish Warrant on Residential Contractor Fraud Charge
Dustin B. Copeland (Eros, LA) – Aggravated Flight
JaQwaun T. Jenkins (Monroe, LA) – Resisting an Officer  x2, Simple Burglary, Contributing to the Delinquency of a Juvenile x4
Dawn M. McDaniel (Jonesboro, LA) – Possession of Schedule II, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia x2, P&P Hold
Shauna  E. Cates (Quitman, LA) – 1st Offense DUI, Improper Lane Usage
Richard C. Stover (Jonesboro, LA) – Special Restrictions on Lamps, Driving Under Suspension, Open Container, Possession of Schedule I, Possession of Schedule II with Intent to Distribute, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Resisting an Officer
Victoria Howard (Jonesboro, LA) – Domestic Abuse Aggravated Assault, Domestic Abuse Battery
Terry T. Gray (Saline, LA) – Parole and Probation Warrant

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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

Jackson Parish School Board Meeting Minutes
March 4, 2024

The Jackson Parish School Board met in regular session at 11:00 a.m. on March 4, 2024 at Jackson Parish School Board, 315 Pershing Highway, Jonesboro, La.
The following were present for roll call: Dennis Clary, Gerry Mims, Paulette Belton, Rick Barlow, Calvin Waggoner, Wade McBride and Mary Saulters.
Absent: None
Rick Barlow gave the Invocation.
Wade McBride led in the Pledge of Allegiance.
The meeting was called to order by Gerry Mims.A motion was made by Mary Saulters, seconded by Wade McBride and carried to add Item 3A to the agenda: Consider approving out of state travel to El Dorado, Ark for Quitman High School Golf Team on April 3, 2024. Transportation will be provided by parents and school personnel.
A motion was made by Mary Saulters, seconded by Dennis Clary and carried to approve out of state travel to El Dorado, Ark for Quitman High School Golf Team on April 3, 2024. Transportation will be provided by parents and school personnel.
Motion was made by Wade McBride, seconded by Rick Barlow and carried to approve the minutes as presented from the Regular Scheduled Meeting held on February 5, 2024.
The following employees were recognized:
• Trey Porchay – High School New Teacher of the Year
• Brent Carpenter – 2023-2024 Principal of the Year
2022 CLU’s were reviewed for Board Members:
• Rick Barlow 12.5
• Paulette Belton 27.5
• Dennis Clary 22.5
• Wade McBride 17.5
• Gerry Mims 19
• Mary Saulters 17.5
• Calvin Waggoner 13
The Board recognized Certified Board Members for the 2022 calendar year. These are Board Members that have earned twenty (20) or more LSBA approved training hours during a calendar year.
• Paulette Belton
• Dennis Clary
Motion was made by Wade McBride, seconded by Rick Barlow and carried to approve the 2024-2025 School Calendar.
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 Calvin Waggoner, seconded by Dennis Clary 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 Wade McBride, seconded by Rick Barlow and carried approving New Directions to provide twenty (20) days of coaching (10 days for Math and 10 days for ELA) at Jonesboro Hodge Elementary School at a cost of $30,000.00, to be paid out of ESSER III Incentive funds. (Pending LDOE approval)
A motion was made by Dennis Clary, seconded by Rick Barlow and carried approving to name Pelican Benefit Advisors as consultant and sole Employee Benefit provider for Jackson Parish School Board, effective June 1, 2024.
A motion was made by Paulette Belton, seconded by Rick Barlow and carried declaring oven from Jonesboro Hodge High School cafeteria as surplus. The oven is not usable and will be disposed of.
A motion was made by Rick Barlow, seconded by Dennis Clary and carried approving payment to Computer Comforts, Inc. in the amount of $25,054.82 to purchase testing carrels for Jonesboro Hodge High School 9th Grade Academy, to be paid from ESSER III Incentive funds, pending LDOE approval.
Presentation of Monthly Financial Report by Kristi Bass, Business Manager.
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 Mary Saulters, seconded by Wade McBride and carried approving purchase of a Type C 53-54 Passenger, Blue Bird Vision school bus from Ross Buss & Equipment Sales at a cost of $140,864.32, to be paid from General Fund.
A motion was made by Wade McBride, seconded by Paulette Belton and carried approving out of state travel for five (5) teachers, two (2) administrators from Jonesboro Hodge High School to travel to Dallas, Texas – June 16-19, 2024 to participate in the AVID Summer Institute Training as part of their 9th Grade Academy Program, to be paid from ESSER III Incentive funds, not to exceed $30,000.00.
A motion was made by Mary Saulters, seconded by Rick Barlow and carried to adjourn at 11:20 a.m.

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.

LEGAL NOTICE

Julia Davis Pearre
June 20, 1937 – March 4, 2024

On the morning of March 4, 2024, Julia Mae Davis Pearre passed away and transitioned peacefully to her heavenly home. Julia was born on June 20, 1937 to the late Wilma (Bee) Hamilton and Nelson Davis in Newellton, LA and was reared by her late grandparents Alex & Julia Washington.

At an early age she professed her love for Jesus Christ and was baptized in 1947 and united with the Saint Stevens Baptist Church of Newellton LA. After establishing roots in Jonesboro, LA, Julia joined and became an active member of the Travelers’ Rest Baptist Church.

In 1955, Julia attended Southern University in Baton Rouge, LA and received her Bachelor’s Degree in Education in 1959. She continued her educational pursuits and received her Master’s of Education Degree from Louisiana Tech University in 1971. While at Southern, she met the love of her life Hulon Xavier Pearre, Sr. and they joined together in holy matrimony on December 25, 1960. To this union two children were born, one daughter and one son. Upon graduation from Southern University, Julia proceeded to teach school in Tensas, Winn, and Jackson Parish. She retired from teaching in 1990.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 51 years, Hulon Xavier Pearre, Sr., Mother Wilma Hamilton, Father Nelson Davis two sisters: Pecolia Murphy and Ruby Lee Hamilton; six brothers: J.C. Brown, Louis Hamilton, Sykes Hamilton, Thomas Hamilton, Nathaniel Hamilton, and Robert Williams.

Left to cherish her memory is her daughter Cholette Pearre Burks (Dennis) and her son Hulon Xavier Pearre, Jr. (Perdithia) both of McKinney, Texas. Five Grandchildren: Raymond X. Burks, Sr. (Sarah), Julion A. Pearre (Shanna), Natalie C. D. Burks, Jared M. Pearre, and Joshua H. Pearre. Two Great Grandchildren: Raymond X. Burks, Jr. and Nova Juliette Pearre. Two brothers: Gregory Williams (Eva) and Barry Hamilton. One Sister-in-law: Valeria Altheimer; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Julia’s Celebration of Life Service was held on Monday, March 11th at Travelers Rest Baptist Church with internment following in the Travelers Rest Cemetery under the direction of Paradise Funeral Home in Jonesboro. 

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BATON ROUGE- State Fire Marshal Chief Bryan J Adams is encouraging Louisianans to check the status of the life-saving devices in their homes, like smoke alarms and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms, when changing their clocks ahead one hour for Daylight Saving Time this Sunday, March 10, at 2 a.m.

“The practice of changing your smoke and CO alarm batteries when you change your clocks should be second nature to all of us,” said Adams, “These days, as many clocks spring forward automatically, it’s especially important for this reminder to reach every household in Louisiana. Take a moment right now to put ‘change your clocks, change your batteries’ on your to-do list for this weekend.”

When checking the status of these devices to determine whether a new battery is needed, also take note of their age.

If you know, or suspect, that your smoke or CO alarms are older than 10 years, we highly recommend upgrading to the 10-year, sealed battery alarms that don’t require any battery replacement through their lifetime. These newer alarms will, however, require something we suggest anyway—pressing the “test” button once a month to ensure the devices are in working order. Your family should practice a home escape plan at the same time which should include knowing two ways out of every room in your home and having an outdoor meeting place.

“We say it all the time, but it is a fact that smoke alarms save lives,” said Adams, “In 2023, 60 Louisianans lost their lives in residential fires. Only two of those cases involved structures with working smoke alarms at the time of the fires. Two other homes had evidence of smoke alarms, but they were not in working condition at the time of the fire. This is why changing your batteries when you change your clocks is so critical.”

If you do not have a smoke alarm, and cannot afford one, our Operation Save-A-Life program can help. The program partners our agency with local fire departments to install smoke alarms for free for families that need them most. To learn more about the program and register for a smoke alarm, visit lasfm.org. You can also contact your local fire department to request a smoke alarm installation.

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The Town of Jonesboro Board of Aldermen will hold their regularly scheduled monthly meeting at 6:00 pm on Tuesday, March 12th at the Charles H. Garrett Community Center, located at 182 Industrial Drive in Jonesboro. 

In addition to the normal perfunctory actions of approving the stated agenda, financials and minutes from the regular and special called meetings in February, the agenda items to be discussed and possibly acted on include:

1. Approval of DEQ Funding Resolution 2024-002
2. Approval of DEQ Resolution from Self-Audit on
   a. North pond wastewater treatment 2024-003
   b. South pond wastewater treatment 2024-005
   c. East pond wastewater treatment 2024-006
3. Approval of Cooperative Endeavor Agreement with the Jackson Parish Hospital
4. Department Head Reports: Public Works, Fire, Police

Council and Mayor comments will then be heard before adjournment.

If you need American with Disabilities (ADA) accommodations, please inform Town Hall prior to the meeting to make necessary arrangements. 

 

 

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A total of ten players, six from Quitman High and four more that played at Weston High School were named 2023-24 1B All-District as first or second team selections in girls and boys basketball.

Representing Quitman High School on the All-District first team was Cali Deal, Logan Ponder and Eli Walker with Lainee Trosclair earning 1st team honors from Weston. Second team selections were Anslee Aldy, Tait Henderson, and Bryce Zehr from Weston and Anna Leach, Riley Duck and Brayden Smith from Quitman. 

The Most Valuable Player on the girls side was Ambree Collinsworth of district champion Castor with Demarion McClendon of district champ Doyline being named as MVP on the boys team. 

2023-24 1B Girls All-District Teams

1st Team:
MVP: Ambree Collinsworth – Castor
Cali Deal – Quitman
Kalena Smith – Castor
Laniee Trosclair – Weston
Sky McMullan – Castor
Keily Sumlin – Doyline

2nd Team:
Anna Leach – Quitman
Peyton Handy – Doyline
Anslee Aldy – Weston
Kaylee Ann Shirley – Castor
Timeria Gray – Castor

2023-24 1B Boys All-District Teams

1st Team:
MVP: Demarion McClendon – Doyline
Cayden Mingo –  Doyline
Logan Ponder – Quitman
Jonathan Warren – Castor
Eli Walker – Quitman
Keidric Clark – Doyline

2nd Team:
Tait Henderson – Weston
Bryce Zehr – Weston
Dawson Wood – Castor
Riley Duck – Quitman
Brayden Smith – Quitman

 

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The Jackson Parish Police Jury will hold their regularly scheduled monthly meeting at 5:30 pm on Monday, March 11th at the Charles H. Garrett Community Center, located at 182 Industrial Drive in Jonesboro. The public is invited to attend. 

AGENDA

Call to Order
Invocation & Pledge of Allegiance
Public Comments
Approve Minutes
1. Adopt the minutes of the February 12, 2024, Regular Police Jury Meeting, monthly
purchase orders, and payment of all bills.
Approve Committee Reports
Road Committee
2. Adopt the minutes of the March 5, 2024, Road Committee meeting.
Management Reports
3. Operations Manager Report – Mr. Brad Roller
4. Road Superintendent Report – Mr. Wayne Anderson
a. Accept the Emergency/Off-Schedule Report
5. Solid Waste Superintendent Report – Mr. Robin Sessions
Other Business
6. Engineering Report – Mr. Paul Riley, The Riley Co. of Louisiana
7. Consider and act on donation to Sparta Water in the amount of $1500.00
8. Consider and act on ACT 397 “Maintenance and Mowing Equipment” purchases
9. Consider and act on lowest quote for tree removal from Ritchie Tree Service for
$1800.00 at Blake building
10. Consider and approve the Revised Overlay Priority List
11. Consider and approve the 2024 Asphalt Maintenance List
12. Consider and approve the 2024 Road program and 3-year plan
13. Consider and approve Edko roadside spraying quote for first round asphalt only in
the amount of $26,637
14. Consider and approve advertising for 2024 Road Program
15. Consider and approve amending Riley Co. contract to add inspection authorization
for Lakeshore project
16. Consider and approve soil boring proposals from Goldman Geotechnical
17. Consider and Act on Parish Board Appointments
Announcements and Notifications
Juror Comments
Adjourn

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

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Mired in a six game losing streak, Weston High needed someone to step up and help change their fortunes. Someone did and in a big way! Jacie Ledford turned in the best single game offensive performance of the year in Jackson Parish, hitting a double, triple and a home run to drive in 7 runs to help lift the Lady Wolves to a 12-8 victory over Simsboro in the opening game of the Smoothie King Invitational that was played on Thursday at the Jackson Parish Recreation Department Sports Complex. Even though Weston fell to Calvin 21-2 and Stanley 26-11 in the final two games of the tourney it was a weekend to remember for Ledford.  By the end of the three games Ledford totaled 7 hits in 8 at bats for an .875 batting average, hit four doubles, a triple and two home runs while driving in 12 and scoring six runs.  

Weston 12 Simsboro 8: It looked like much of the same for Weston after 3 1/2 innings of play as Simsboro had opened up a 6-0 lead. Then Ledford struck, smashing a line shot over the center field fence to score Jaylin Williams who had walked to narrow the deficit to 6-2. Weston came right back in the bottom of the fifth to take the lead, scoring five runs with two outs. The rally started with walks to Raelynn Shell and Williams that were sandwiched by a double by Molly Beaubouef to load the bases. Once again Ledford came up and once again cleared the bases of runners by stroking a triple to left to close the gap to 6-5 before scoring herself on a passed ball to tie the game. A walk to Carlynn Waters followed by a single by Carly Jo Griffin and a walk to Gracie Mudge reloaded the bases Waters then scored on another passed ball to give Weston a 7-6 lead. Simsboro would tie the game in the top of the sixth, setting the stage for Ledford to strike again, this time dropping a double to center field that scored Shell and Davynee Bearden. The Lady Wolves would go on to add three more runs in the inning as Ledford, Waters and Griffin all scored again on passed balls.

TEAM	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	R	H	E
Simsboro (6-6)	1	0	4	1	0	1	1	8	9	0
Weston (3-8)	0	0	0	2	5	5	x	12	6	1

Calvin 21 Weston 2: The Lady Cougars scored 9 runs in the top of the third to break open a close game and then added 10 more in the top of the fifth to end the contest. Raelynn Shell hit her first home run of the year to score one of Weston’s two runs.  Molly Beaubouef, who hit a pair of doubles and Jacie Ledford, who added another two bagger, also continued to swing the big bats for Weston and Carly Jo Griffin got a single and drove in a run. Gracie Mudge added a single. 

TEAM	1	2	3	4	5	R	H	E
Calvin (9-7)	2	0	9	0	10	21	18	0
Weston (3-9)	0	0	1	1	0	2	6	5

Stanley 26 Weston 11: After Weston scored 8 runs in the top of the third inning to erase a 10-2 deficit, Stanley responded with 11 in the bottom of the frame to put the game away. The loss failed to overshadow another command performance by Jacie Ledford who hit a home run and a pair of doubles, drove in five and scored two more. Raelynn Shell also continued her sudden power surge by blasting her second home run in two days, scored twice and drove in two runs and Carlynn Waters went 2/3, scored twice and had an RBI. Molly Beaubouef also had two hits and scored a run while Davynee Bearden hit a hit, drove in a run and scored twice. 

TEAM	1	2	3	4	R	H	E
Weston (3-10)	1	1	8	1	11	11	7
Stanley (9-6)	5	5	11	5	26	19	2

Quitman girls take two at Smoothie King Invitational

The Lady Wolverines put an end to their two game losing streak by winning a pair on Saturday. Quitman got back on track by beating Anacoco 13-7 in the first game on Saturday and then ended the evening in fine fashion by outlasting Class 5A Pineville by a 4-2 score. With the two victories Quitman improved to 14-2 on the year and kept their #1 ranking in Division V among “non-select” schools. 

Quitman 13 Anacoco 7: Karly Huckaby smashed a pair of home runs and drove in four runs as did Cali Deal who hit two doubles. Madison Chaplin added a double and scored three runs and Maggie Guyotte scored twice after reaching base three times via base on balls. Kinsley Ponder, Marley Bell and Taylor Harvey each got a hit and scored a run while Hallie Kate Pullig got a hit and an RBI. Brenna Lamkin and Briley Bowers both added a hit and Anna Leach scored a run. 

TEAM	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	R	H	E
Anacoco (4-6)	2	0	0	0	2	3	0	7	14	3
Quitman (13-2)	3	1	2	3	0	4	x	13	11	1

Quitman 4 Pineville 2: After two errors gave Pineville to a 2-0 lead in the top half of the first inning Quitman took the lead with a three spot in the bottom half of the frame. Madison Chaplin started the rally by singling followed by Maggie Guyotte hitting a double. A sacrifice fly by Cali Deal cut the lead in half setting up a two run single from Karly Huckaby that scored Taylor Harvey, who had come in as a pinch runner for Deal and Guyotte. Quitman added a run in the bottom of the fifth when Huckaby hit a one out double and scored when Marley Bell hit a grounder to shortstop. Deal went the distance to get the win, allowing only four hits and no earned runs while striking out ten. 

TEAM	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	T	H	E
Pineville (8-8)	2	0	0	0	0	0	0	2	4	1
Quitman (14-2)	3	0	0	0	1	0	x	4	6	2

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Who doesn’t remember the times of going around and getting friends, classmates, teachers, coaches and administration members to sign your yearbook? It is always one of the most fun days at school. Since 2016, students at Jonesboro-Hodge High School haven’t gotten to enjoy those days but thanks to the diligent effort of the JHHS administration, staff and students, happy days are here again!

The KRAFTSMAN, which is the name of the traditional JHHS annual,  IS BACK! 

To help make this a BIG comeback, you are asked to help. If anyone has any pictures of current students or staff at school events during the 2023-2024 school year you are asked to submit them to the following website or scan the QR code shown below. 

https://uploads.picabooyearbooks.com/9857687

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Quitman scored three runs in both their games played Saturday at the Choudrant Tournament. The final time it was good enough for the win. That was because Logan Ponder, Hudson Pullig and John Raegan Hasley didn’t allow but three hits and no runs to Claiborne Christian. In the first game of the day, Hamburg, AR scored six runs to end the Wolverines five game winnings steak. A scheduled Friday contest against St. Fredericks of Monroe was cancelled due to rain. 

QHS 3 CCA 0: The Wolverines did all their damage in the bottom of the third inning thanks to a pair of singles and two CCA errors. Jake Potts opened the frame by reaching on the first error before taking second on a Braden Hobbs single. Ponder then reached on another error that scored two before scoring himself on a single by Pullig. That would be plenty as Ponder struck out 8 in four innings of work before Hudson pitched the fifth and Hasley earned the save by finishing the final two frames without giving up a hit. Riley Duck also contributed a double in the contest. The shut out marked the fourth time already this season the Wolverine pitching staff has not allowed a run in a contest and the second that Ponder has started.

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

Hamburg, AR 6 Quitman 3: The Wolverines took a 2-1 lead over their out of state foe but a pair of runs in the bottom of the third and fourth innings by Hamburg proved to be to much. Logan Ponder got two hits for QHS, including a double and drove in a run while Pete Simonelli, Ian Tilley and Braden Hobbs all got a hit and scored. Kace West added an RBI and Maddox Duck got a hit as well. Freshman Hunter Ayres also stole a base to make his first offensive contribution of the year. 

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

Weston drops three at Red River Classic

Lack of offense proved to be the downfall as the Wolves, who had scored six runs in one inning in the victory over Franklin on Tuesday, managed just six runs total in all three games played at the Red River Classic in Alexandria this past Thursday and Saturday. As result Weston fell  5-3 to Oakdale, 4-2 to Buckeye and 12-1 against Menard, who was playing on their home field to drop to 7-7 on the year. 

Menard 12 Weston 1: Base hits by Drew Browning and Colton Blundell scored Layton Garrett, who was a pinch runner for Cole Tolar to give Weston a 1-0 lead after their game opening at bat. It didn’t last long though and neither did the wondering about the outcome. Menard took advantage of four Weston errors and three base hits in the bottom half of the first inning to send 8 unearned runs across home plate and never looked back to win going away in the five inning contest.  

TEAM	1	2	3	4	5	R	H	E
Weston (7-7)	1	0	0	0	0	1	5	4
Menard (5-7)	8	0	2	2	x	12	9	1

Buckeye 4 Weston 2: After the two teams played to a scoreless tie through four innings, Buckeye got four of their first five batters on base to score all their runs in the bottom of the fifth. The Wolves attempted to rally in the top of the sixth when Bryce Zehr walked and both Drew Browning and Braden Theriot reached on errors. Colton Blundell drove in a run with a sacrifice fly, setting up Cooper Delaney drawing a walk to load the bases. Jacob Gill then “took one for the team” by standing in to get hit by a pitch but Buckeye got out of the bases loaded jam by coaxing a flyout to centerfield. Tait Henderson took the loss for Weston.

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

Oakdale 5 Weston 3: A 3-0 lead after two innings failed to hold up as Oakdale scored five runs, including four that were unearned, to steal the victory. Back to back sacrifice flies by Braden Theriot and Colton Blundell  scored pinch runner, Layton Garrett and Bryce Zehr, who had opened with a single, along with Cole Tolar gave the Wolves the early two run advantage. Weston stretched the lead to three when Tait Henderson led off with a triple and came home when Tayt Culpepper, who was the hard luck loser, hit a ground ball was misplayed. 

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

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Forest Haven Nursing & Rehabilitation Center, located at 171 Thrasher Avenue in Jonesboro, is proud to announce that it has received a five-star rating from The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).

This is the highest possible rating given by the federal government. Forest Haven
received the rating for its overall quality care and service.

CMS developed the Five-Star Quality Rating System to help consumers compare
skilled nursing facility providers. Each year, CMS rates skilled nursing facilities on a one
to five scale and publishes the ratings on its website, Nursing Home Compare.

The rating system uses data from 15 clinical quality measurements in both long-
and short-term nursing care resident stays, along with staffing measurements and
health inspection results from the three most recent comprehensive annual inspections.

“I am extremely proud of our team for receiving this elite achievement,” said
Sandra Billings, Forest Haven Administrator. “Receiving the highest rating in an
extremely regulated profession is a testament to our team’s daily dedication to
providing residents with outstanding, person-centered quality care. This rating reflects
our commitment to treat all residents as family.”

Forest Haven is part of Central Management Company, which owns 22 long-term
care facilities in Louisiana.

“Central Management congratulates the outstanding staff and caregivers at
Forest Haven Nursing & Rehabilitation Center for this incredible accomplishment,” said Teddy Price, owner of Central Management. “This distinction is a direct result of the unwavering commitment of the entire staff and leadership of Forest Haven to provide the highest quality care and service to each resident based on their unique health care needs.”

About Forest Haven Nursing & Rehabilitation Center

Forest Haven Nursing & Rehabilitation Center in Jonesboro, a Central Management facility, provides exceptional quality healthcare services for residents needing short-term care with rehabilitation therapy or long-term care in a nurturing, comfortable environment. Forest Haven Nursing & Rehabilitation Center’s qualified team of healthcare professionals is committed to providing person-centered quality care to each resident with the utmost dignity and respect.

Central Management owns and operates 22 skilled nursing facilities in Louisiana. Forest Haven Nursing & Rehabilitation Center is a proud member of the Louisiana Nursing Home Association.

To learn more about Forest Haven Nursing & Rehabilitation Center, visit
www.foresthavennursingandrehab.com.

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The progress was evident. Each game the improvement of the Tigers play from one game to the next could easily be recognized as they kept knocking on the door of the first win of the 2024 prep baseball season. This past Thursday, JHHS didn’t knock, they knocked the door down.

The youthful Tigers scored 8 runs in the first three innings against Sicily Island to pave the way to their inaugural win of the year, a 12-2 thrashing of Sicily Island after opening the season with five straight losses. 

It was the total team effort that second year head coach Zach Cheatwood has been looking for as 8 of the 9 starters scored and 7 got hits. Duke Tew, Marquis Baker and Landon Boston led the way by scoring two runs each with Waylon Evans, Trey Trosclair, Pierce Ulloa, John Self and Logan Smithall crossing home plate once apiece. 

Fifteen times JHHS batters reached base, led by Logan Smith who had two hits including a triple. Self, Baker, Boston and Tew also got on twice with Trosclair who was the winning pitcher after striking out a career high 14 batters in 5.2 innings of work, reaching base three times with a hit, getting hit by a pitch and coaxing a walk. 

JHHS also set a new season best in stolen bases with Smith, Tew and Baker all swiping two each and Trosclair and Evans adding to the 8 steals total. 

TEAM	1	2	3	4	5	6	R	H	E
Sicily Island (0-6)	0	0	2	0	0	0	2	2	3
Jonesboro-Hodge (1-5)	2	2	4	0	1	3	12	7	0

Saline 4 JHHS 2: Pierce Ulloa and Logan Smith held Saline to just four hits and four runs, but Bryce Davis did even better, by allowing just two hits and two runs while striking out a season best 16 Tigers. the loss extended the Tigers season opening losing streak to five games while Saline improved to 4-1 on the young season.

Saline jumped out to a 3-0 lead in the top of the second when Conner Roberts doubled in Johnathan Bunker, who had gotten hit by a pitch followed by back to back hits from Jackson Bougues and Braydon Robinson. The Tigers narrowed the gap to 3-2 in the next inning as Duke Tew and Trey Trosclair got free passes and and then scored on throwing errors. Marquis Baker and Dakota Knox got the two hits for JHHS wiht Tew stealing two bases and Trosclair and Knox swiping one each. Corley, Davis and Gunner Fontenot, who got the other hit for Saline, all stole one base each.

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

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Mama D’s Restaurant has been chosen as the Business of the Month for March by the Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce. Located at 1994 Hwy 4 in Jonesboro, Mama D’s has provided Jackson Parish residents with a tremendous selection of dining choices since opening in 2022. Come enjoy the daily specials or select from the large selection available on the menu from 11:00 am – 8:00 pm, Monday – Friday, or 5:30 am – 8:00 pm on Saturday.  

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A full week of activities were planned at Jonesboro-Hodge Elementary School on this past week in celebration of  National Beta Week. Each day special programs took place as identified below.

Monday, March 4: Campus Trash Pickup Day – Picked up litter on the campus, cleaned unkept areas and the playground
Tuesday, March 5: Random Acts of Kindness Day – Displayed kindness to teachers, students, janitors and administrators. 
Wednesday, March 6: Peer Reading Day – Read books with Pre-K and 1st Grade students 
Thursday, March 7: Sharing is Caring Day – Made cards and goodie bags for Forest Haven Nursing Home residents
Friday, March 8: Elderly-Senior Citizen Pals Day – Field trip to Forest Haven Nursing Home 

National Beta Week Participants

Fourth Grade: Lainey Elmore, Caiden Jackson, Samiya Stallings, Robert Starkey, Nicholas Granados, Autumn Kohler. Isaiah McCormick, Charity Harper, David Hurst

Fifth Grade: Naakyah Walker, Kelci Bradford, Skyler Christesen, Clayton Smith, Kynasia Oyetunde, Jalonah Amos, Ryleigh McCormick, Brady Malone, James Simmons

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