Jackson Parish – Earlier today, at approximately 10:00 a.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop F responded to a two-vehicle crash on LA 34 near Chatham Lake Road. The crash claimed the life of 61-year-old David Perry.
The preliminary investigation revealed that a 2023 Buick Enclave, driven by Perry, was traveling southbound on LA 34. At the same time, a 2016 Ford F-150 was traveling northbound on LA 34. For reasons still under investigation, the Buick crossed the centerline and collided with the Ford.
Perry, who was unrestrained at the time of the crash, sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene. Three occupants inside the Ford were properly restrained and did not sustain any injuries. A standard toxicology sample was obtained from Perry and submitted for analysis, as a part of the ongoing investigation.
While not all crashes are survivable, statistics show that properly wearing your seat belt will dramatically reduce your chance of being severely injured or killed in a crash. Louisiana law requires that every person in a vehicle, regardless of seating position, always remain buckled up. Properly wearing your seat belt is one of the most effective ways to save your life and reduce injuries during crashes.
In 2024, Troop F has investigated 22 fatal crashes, resulting in 23 deaths.
The Jackson Parish School Board will hold their regularly scheduled monthly meeting at 11:00am on Monday, July 1st in the Conference Room of the Jackson Parish School District Central Office, located at 315 Pershing Hwy. in Jonesboro.
A short agenda features the adoption of 2024 Millage Rates, consider naming Robertson Produce as the supplier of Produce and Eggs for the 2024-2025 school year and consider adopting items per the Committee Reports. Comments by JPSD Superintendent David Claxton will conclude the session.
In accordance with the Americans Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance, please contact David Claxton at 318-259-4456 describing the assistance that is necessary.
School Board Meeting Agenda July 1, 2024
1. Invocation – Rick Barlow 2. Pledge of Allegiance – Paulette Belton 3. Call to Order 4. Consider approving the minutes as presented from the Regular Scheduled meeting held on June 3, 2024. 5. Adopt 2024 Millage Rates 6. Consider naming Robertson Produce as the supplier of Produce and Eggs for the 2024-2025 school year. 7. Consider adopting items per the Committee Reports attached hereto. 8. Superintendent’s Comments 9. Adjourn
The 7th annual Caney Lake Flotilla will take place at 10:00 am on Saturday, July 6th. The Grand Marshall for the 2024 Flotilla will be Jackson Parish Watershed Commission President, Gary Joynor.
The Caney Lake Community Foundation announces that there is still time to sign up but registration will be closed on Monday, July 1st. To enter click here
Jackson Parish 12U boys All-Stars split their first two games this past weekend at the Dixie Boys District 8 tournament played in Buckeye, needing to win just one more game to qualify for the state tournament. The locals will play again at 5:30pm on Monday, July 1st against the loser of Grant Parish and host Buckeye.
JP12U opened district play by beating Sabine Parish 12U by an 8-6 score. Jackson Parish then fell to Grant Parish by a 12-1 margin. A loss is never considered a good thing, but the way the wacky Dixie Boys bracket is drawn up, the locals are actually in better position to reach the state tournament than if they had won their second game.
“After we won the first game, I guess you could say that we took a ‘strategic chance’ in the second game,” laughed JP12U head coach Juddy Rogers. “We saw how the bracket was drawn up and decided that we would take a chance with guys who don’t normally throw for us as it didn’t matter if we won or loss, we still only needed to win one more game to qualify for state, which is our ultimate goal.”
The reason for the decision to save their top pitchers for the following game was that if JP12U had won game two they would have had to turn around that Saturday evening and play again. A loss there would have put them in exactly the same spot they are in now with the difference being that they would be short their top hurlers. As it is now, JP12U has their #1 and #2 pitchers available, needing only to win on Monday to qualify for the state tournament.
Jackson Parish 8 Sabine 6 (Friday): After spotting Sabine a 5-2 lead, JP12U stormed back to score two runs in the 3rd, 4th and 5th innings to take the first round victory. The locals opened the contest by scoring two runs in the top of the first inning when Grant Griffin and Cason Rogers drew walks and scored when Jaxon Cheatwood laced a double to left field.
Sabine rallied to take a 4-2 lead in the bottom half of the frame on the strength of a three run, inside the park, home run and then added another run in the bottom of the second.
Undaunted JP12U struck back to narrow the margin to 5-4 in the top of the third. Griffin and Rogers, once again got things started with two free passes virtue of a walk and a hit batter. A single by Corbin Powell loaded the bases before Cheatwood walked to force in a run. Carter Powell then hit a grounder to second that scored a run.
Jackson Parish regained the lead at 6-5 in the top of the fourth. Conner Thompson hit a one out single to get the rally started and went to second base when Aiden Reed walked. A double steal put runners at second and third base setting up a ground out by Jensen Waggoner that tied the score. Caston Zimmerman then slashed a single through the left side of the infield to give JP12U the lead.
The locals stretched the lead to 8-5 in the top of the fifth when Corbin Powell and Cheatwood hit back-to-back, one out singles, advanced an extra base and scored on Waylon Sullivan’s single.
Sabine Parish made it interesting in the bottom of the fifth and final inning by drawing a walk and hitting a pair of singles with no one to score a run and put runners on first and third. Then JP12U made the play of the game by turning a timely double play when Corbin Powell snared a line shot at shortstop and fired to third base to get the runner out and complete the twin killing. Carter Powell who had come in relief then struck out the Sabine batter to secure the victory.
Jackson Parish out hit Sabine 7-6 with Cheatwood and Carter Powell leading the way with two hits each. Sullivan, Thompson and Zimmersman also had base hits. Cheatwood led the team with 3 RBI followed by Sullivan knocking two runs in. Corbin Powell, Waggoner and Zimmerman also had an RBI each. Griffin and Rogers led in scoring with two runs each with Carter Powell, Cheatwood, Thompson and Reed also crossing home plate once. JP12U also stole four bases in the contest with Griffin getting two and Thompson and Reed also swiping a base.
Grant Parish 12 Jackson Parish 1 (Saturday): A five run first inning by Grant Parish was followed by 2,2 and then 3 more and Jackson Parish managed just two hits and a lone run to fall in the shortened, four inning contest. Cason Rogers put the locals on the board in the top of the fourth when walked and then scored on Jaxon Cheatwood’s, two out double, his second two bagger of the tourney. Grant Griffin got the other hit for the locals. who made five errors in the contest.
The Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce welcomed their newest member this past week as members joined family and friends for a traditional Ribbon Cutting Ceremony celebrating the Grand Opening of Gate City Kennels.
Located at 138 Walter Rodgers Road in Hodge, Gate City Kennels is a state-of-the-art, premier indoor boarding facility that provides and an “at home feel” with safety, comfort, and cleanliness for your fur baby.
The beautiful spacious backyard is enjoyed by all of their guests every three hours or so where they are allowed to run and play while always being watched so that your pet will be happy, healthy, and safe while under care.
Combined with the unique grooming environment given by Ruff Ruff grooming, your fur baby will have the opportunity to socialize and exercise with other dogs of similar size and energy level. The experienced team not only provides for 7 day a week and 24 hour boarding, but also gives love and attention for each of their guests as if they were their own.
Hours of Operation: Sunday and Monday: Closed Tuesday-Friday: 8:00am to 5:00pm Saturdays: 8:00am to 12:00pm
Several new Louisiana laws are going into effect on July 1.
Since the end of the 2024 Regular Legislative Session, Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry has signed a number of bills, including health care bills, public records bills and one that requires the Ten Commandments displayed in public school classrooms.
Here’s what you need to know about laws going into effect starting July.
Act 3: This is an insurance reform bill signed by the governor on May 7 about fair claims processing. The Louisiana Department of Insurance said this new law “establishes a simple, clear timeline for the claims process that makes it easier for policyholders and insurers to understand what their responsibilities are during the claim.”
Act 312: This new law repeals the Port Development Advisory Commission and office of port development within the Department of Economic Development. The office and the commissioner position were created in the 2023 Regular Legislative Session to attract and expand business for Louisiana ports.
Act 328: This law temporarily suspends the requirement of certain provisions for the land-based casino operating contract to conduct gaming operations.
Act 331: This law requires schools to put the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline hotline number on student identification cards.
Act 513: Port of South Louisiana fire protection officers who work full time will get an extra $600 per month after meeting requirements.
Act 524: This new law changes the registration requirements for the Child Abuse Neglect Registry, including that an offender who fails to register should be imprisoned for no more than one year with or without hard labor
Act 764: This makes changes to the capital outlay process, including requiring a nonstate entity to maintain an escrow account for certain projects.
When Jackson Parish Sheriff, Andy Brown, took his Oath of Office for an unprecedented sixth term on Friday, June 21st, it marked the 71st time that a person has been sworn in the span from 1845 – 2024, a period of 179 years.
Jackson Parish was founded in 1845, created from portions taken from Ouachita, Union and Claiborne parishes. The 578-square mile area was created from wilderness nominally under the House of Bourbon in France and Spain and the habitat of the Caddo Nation.
Below is a comprehensive history of ever sheriff that has served in Jackson Parish along with dates and in cases where documented, historic events or names of importance of that time.
History of Jackson Parish Sheriff’s 1845 – 2024
1. Joel Guice (January 20, 1845 – December 6, 1847) The Times Picayune of March 14, 1845, states that Joel Guice was APPOINTED as Sheriff of Jackson Parish by Governor Alexander Mouton, who was elected as the first democratic governor of Louisiana and led the Constitutional Convention of 1845. Governor’s proclamation as shown in The Concordia Intelligencer on Jan. 10, 1846 shows one Senator from district of Jackson, Union, Ouachita and Morehouse and one Representative from Jackson Parish along with a Sheriff, Coroner and Clerk of District Court to be elected on the third Monday of January 1846 and on that date for following years of elections. Local records show that Guice was elected as first Sheriff of Jackson Parish. 2. Benjamin Cullin (December 6, 1847 – November 14, 1853) 3. Mayfield Johnson (November 14, 1853 – December 3, 1855) 4. R.J.I. McLeroy (December 3, 1855 – May 19, 1866) 5. William F. Kidd (May 19, 1866 – April 17, 1868) 6. James G. Huey (April 17, 1868 – January 4, 1873) 7. Alex Sanders (January 4, 1873 – November 16, 1873) 8. William M. Tulford (November 26, 1873 – March 18, 1874) – Appointed by Governor Pitt Kellog 9. J.R. Cavanagh (March 18, 1874 – November 2, 1874) – Appointed by Governor Pitt Kellog 10. Richard H. Jones (November 2, 1874 – June 1, 1875) 11. C.J. Kelly (June 1, 1875 – November 7, 1876) – Appointed by Governor Pitt Kellog 12. Richard H. Jones (November 7, 1876 – January 27, 1891) – First to be elected for a four year term. Fourth term was cut short by reason that doesn’t show in annals. 13. A.A. Lane (January 27, 1891 – June 15, 1896) 14. John Grigsby (June 15, 1896 – August 7, 1900) 15. James M. McDowell (August 7, 1900 – June 7, 1904) 16. A.C. Oxford (June 7, 1904 – June 10, 1908) – Was Sheriff during mob killing of Bulgarian railroad workers employed by the Tremont and Gulf Railroad in the town of Chathamville (as it was called at the time) that carried international implications. Candidates for office of sheriff as reported on Nov. 1, 1907 by Shreveport Times were Oxford, J.M. McDowell, W.J. McBride, Ben Grigsby and J.H. Sanders 17. William J. McBride (June 10. 1908 – June 5, 1916) – While as Sheriff had a nephew (Napoleon, age 21) who was a timekeeper for Tremont Lumber, killed when shot in back with shotgun by Frank Caesar at a party at a Tremont Lumber Camp just east of Jonesboro. Several reasons for murder was given with one being Napoleon got offended when Caesar, who was drunk at the time, came up to ask for cigarette and slapped him on the back to which Napoleon got offended and rebuked Caesar who then walked to his camp house, got his gun, returned and shot him in the back. Another was that Caesar said Napoleon owed him money he lent him and still another was that Caesar said Napoleon shorted his check and got revenge. A posse searched form Caesar who escaped into the woods, saying later he left because he knew he would be lynched. The perpetrator was caught Winnfield and then hustled to Caddo Parish when it was learned that mob was coming to Winnfield to “effect justice”. Caesar was later returned to Winn Parish to stand trial after it was learned that murder took place about 90 feet over the Winn Parish line. After being convicted of murder and sentenced to hang, Caesar was taken to Rapides Parish Jail in Alexandria. W.J. McBride’s wife (Mary Louisa Watts McBride) also died while he was in office after suffering from cancer. Filing in court to contest elections held in March and two elections held in August by citizens of Chatham for parish seat was reported in Nov. 8, 1911 edition of Shreveport Times. Candidates that filed for upcoming Sheriff election was McBride, A.C. Oxford and F.A. Kilpatrick. 18. Dr. W.S. Jones (June 5, 1916 – June 5, 1924) – According to report in March 12, 1923 edition of Shreveport Times was opposed by the Hoboro Klan #60 of Ku Klux Klan who ran a carnival show was run out of town and accused the sheriff of performing his duties. Jones replied by saying he had always done his duty and always would “with his face uncovered.” Per Sept. 27, 1923 edition of Shreveport Times, Jones met with Governor Parker and presented him a resolution signed by residents of Jonesboro, W.D. Jeffress, R. L. Hardy, (merchants), A.H. Colvin (Jackson Independent Newspaper) and W.J. Fanning who signed as a law student, denouncing the Klan and their actions and requesting that Governor help to restore law and order in Jackson Parish. Later Ran for seat of Senator against T.L. Hood of Monroe taking stance of opposing KKK and all “hooded” organizations. 19. Eli M. Rentz (June 5, 1924 – August 22, 1924) – According to August 23, 1924, article in the Shreveport Journal, Rentz was killed in line of duty the night before about a mile outside of Ansley by three black men who he had handcuffed together and was transporting to jail after arresting them for moonshining. Was killed when group overpowered the sheriff as he walked ahead to pick a way through dense underbrush according to Deputy Sheriff Luther Barnes and took his .45 pistol away from him and shot him. Still handcuffed together the three escaped where a manhunt ensued led by Deputy Sheriff O.O. Roberts and later joined by Sheriff’s from Lincoln, Winn and Bienville Parish along with a posse of between 800 – 1000 citizens. The use of the “Gantz Pack”, famous bloodhounds from Crystal Springs, MS was also incorporated. Ob Turner and Willie Washington was captured the following Monday. Per the Sept 3 edition of the Guardian Journal in Homer, Freeman Coleman, who was later proved as the one who shot Sheriff Rentz was captured near Mullinex, about 4 miles north of Athens the next day (Tuesday) after being trailed by the bloodhounds when he came up to a house and asked for some food. After being captured all three were transported to a Caddo Parish Jail due to the fear of uprising by local citizens all three were found guilty in court held one week later in Jackson Parish that took only 3 hours and 15 minutes and sentenced to death. Per Sept. 6, 1924 article in the Shreveport Times the Jurors were: R.E. Harrell (Chatham), J.C. Head (Eros), J.F. Bowen (Midway), J.T. Shankle (Jonesboro), J.R. Carson (Hodge), C.E. Bush (Eros), J.H. Walker (Eros), M.P. Capps (Choudrant) and J.C. Stephenson (Eros) 20. T.H Bond (October 27, 1924 – June 4, 1928) Per July 31, 1925 edition of Shreveport Journal a most interesting case during his tenure involved the tar and feathering of a young woman said to be between the age of 20 – 30 by approximately 25 women and men of the town of Eros. August 3, 1925 edition of Shreveport Journal named victim as Mary Nave, formerly known as Mary Sims. Five women and four men were eventually arrested: Ada Ward, Annie May Prohn, Walter Prohn, Charles Prohn, Mrs. Jack Carter, Mrs. Pearl Lowery, Jessie Smith, Buddie Bennett and Mrs. Alma Smith. When confronted with arrest warrants Sheriff Bond was quoted as saying those in connection with the affair flocked around him and joked about it. It was a violent time that saw several people murdered, including a Jackson Parish Deputy (May 02, 1926 edition of the Shreveport Times) and the Cavanaugh general store in Clay get destroyed by a charge of dynamite in an attempt to rob the safe that was housed there (Sept. 22, 1927 edition of the Shreveport Journal). Also per the Feb 1, 1926 edition of the Shreveport Journal two women were injured during a knife fight in Eros. In another incident Jonesboro Town Marshal L. Page Sims and brother J.Y. (Red) Sims were jailed for the killing of B.F. Blundell and the wounding of his son brought on by a family dispute.) 21. Neil Thomas (June 4, 1928 – June 15, 1948) – Held the distinction of being the longest tenured sheriff in Jackson Parish history being in office for 20 years and 11 days. Per June 16, 1935 report in Shreveport Times, Jackson Parish Deputy Charles Gunter died from having his throat cut in Eros when attempting to arrest a man on disturbing the peace charge. Was instrumental in nabbing two aviators who were notorious bank robbers all over north Louisiana (Dec. 21, 1930 edition of Shreveport Times). Also Sheriff when the Jackson Parish Courthouse blew up (Jan. 17, 1936 edition of Shreveport Journal). Orchestrated quarantine of cattle movement in and out of Jackson parish due to Anthrax outbreak (July 27, 1946, in Shreveport Journal). After five years of conducting searches in Arkansas, Texas and Oklahoma and offering rewards killer of a Jonesboro Billiard Parlor owner was finally apprehended in Oklahoma (Feb. 27, 1938 – Shreveport Times) 22. H.P. (Posey) McBride (June 15, 1948 – May 31, 1952) – Served as a deputy under Neil Thomas from 1940-48. Installed first three-way short wave police radio system that operated on same frequency as State Police and other sheriff departments in the area. All mobile units were equipped. Received accommodations in Louisiana Peace Officer Publication official journal of LA Peace Officers Association and Municipal Police Officers Association (7/28/50, Jackson Independent. Introduced a night patrol as well as a fingerprinting and identification bureau in the office. 23. Lloyd G. Bryant (May 31, 1952 – December 29, 1959) – While seeking a third term in office died during run-off against Newt Lowe from what was described as a lengthy illness at the age of 52. (12/28/59 – Monroe News Star. Officers sworn as criminal deputies when elected in 1952 was Lyman (Red) Watkins of Jonesboro, M.R. Tolar of Chatham, Harvey A Spillers of Eros. Travis B. Pardue was criminal and office deputy and Chris D. Blalock was office deputy (6/6/52 – Jackson Independent) 24. Mary Hay Bryant (December 29, 1959 – May 26, 1960) Only woman to serve as sheriff in Jackson Parish History. Commissioned by Governor Earl K. Long to fill unexpired term of her husband who died in office. While sheriff kept her job as Head Bookkeeper at the Bank. 25. Newt T. Loe (May 26, 1960 – July 1, 1968) Won election over write in candidate Benoye Roller. Orchestrated what was called the largest full scale bootlegger raid ever carried out in Jackson Parish, arresting 27 people. Over 125 bottles of whiskey and gins along with five cases of beer taken from one location. (8/29/60 – Jackson Independent) 26. Lyman “Red” Watkins (July 1, 1968 – June 30 – 1980) Orchestrated what was at the time the largest number of people arrested for drug distribution in one day in Jackson Parish bringing in nine. (6/5/71 – Shreveport Journal) Opened first license plate office in Jonesboro (1/15/76 – Jackson Independent). 27. Van Beasley (July 1, 1980 – June 30, 2000) – Had 12 patrol, deputies, 4 in radio room, 4 in office for tax collections, civil and criminal court and one jailer, on staff when he took office. First started in law enforcement as deputy for five years in 1960, the last two and a half years as Chief Deputy. Returned as Chief Deputy in 1968. As Sheriff, organized a junior Deputy program and had a pistol range built. Had jail above Courthouse refurbished to add new smoke detection system, automatic emergency generator and fire escape (6/15/92 – Shreveport Times) 28. Richard Johnson (July 1, 2000 – June 30, 2004)
State Fire Marshal Chief Bryan J. Adams is reminding all Louisiana families about the proven life-saving capabilities of smoke detectors / alarms following a fatal fire in Vidalia.
Around 3 a.m. on Wednesday, June 26, Concordia Parish Fire District #2 responded to a call for a house fire located in the 100 block of Lynnhaven Road in Vidalia. Unfortunately, firefighters located the body of the sole occupant in the kitchen.
The death is the second this year, including a Jonesboro woman, where it was believed that the death could have been avoided if there had been a properly working smoke detector / alarm in the residence.
“So many fire emergency outcomes have the potential to be very different if smoke alarms were present and working,” said Adams, “They give families critical extra seconds to react, gather together safely, and escape.”
Operation Save-A-Life program can help families in need access these devices for FREE. To learn more about Operation Save-A-Life, or to register for a free smoke alarm installation, visit our website at lasfm.org or contact your local fire department to request a free smoke alarm installation.
Cyndi Beaubouef has been recognized as the 2024 Region 8 Northeast Louisiana Arts Council Educator of the Year. She was nominated by Mrs. Sheri Flynn. Because Mrs. Beaubouef was in Savannah, GA with WHS students at the National Beta Convention, Mrs. Flynn accepted the award, that included a $500.00 check, in her place at the presentation ceremony held in Monroe.
The Northeast Louisiana Arts Council nurtures a vibrant regional arts culture through support, promotion, and education. Establishing positive relationships with the business community, educational systems, tourism industry, and government agencies, the Council serves as a cultural liaison to develop new opportunities and partnerships.
The Jonesboro-Hodge Elementary School has released their supply list for grades 1-5, as well as, Pre-K and Kindergarten Classes and for the Super Heroes. School resumes on Wednesday, August 14, 2024. Paper copies of the supply lists can also be found at Walmart in Jonesboro.
Please label all items with your child’s first and last name!
2024-25 JHES School Supply List
Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten
● (1) Zipper Pencil Bag (no boxes) ● Backpack ● Plastic thin Red/Blue Nap Mat (no homemade cloth mats) ● Change of clothes (include shorts, pants, shirt, undergarments, and socks labeled and in a Ziploc bag)
First Grade
● (3) Packs of Crayons (24-count) ● (2) Packs of 4 Expo Markers ● (1) Pack of Glue Sticks (2-count) ● (1) Pair of Scissors ● (1) Pair of Earbuds
Second Grade
● (2) Packs of Pencils (20-count) ● (2) Packs of Pink Erasers (2-count) ● (2) Packs of Crayons (24-count) ● (1) Pack of Expo Markers (Black) ● (2) Packs of Glue Sticks (2-count) ● (1) Pair of Scissors ● (1) Pack of Loose Leaf Paper (wide-ruled) ● (3) Composition Notebooks ● (1) Pair of Earbuds
Third Grade
● (2) Packs of Ticonderoga Pencils (24-count) ● (1) Pack of Colored Pencils (12-count) ● (3) Packs of Large Pink Erasers ● (1) Pack of Dry Erase Markers (4-count) ● Zipper Pencil Pouch (no boxes) ● (2) Packs of Loose Leaf Paper (wide-rule) ● (2) Composition Notebooks (wide-rule)(ELA) ● (2) Composition Notebooks (wide-rule)(Sci/Soc.) ● (2) Sticky Note Pads (100-count) ● (1) Water bottle with name labeled
Fourth Grade
● (6) Marble Composition Notebooks ● (3) Packs of Loose Leaf Paper ● (3) Packs of Ticonderoga Pencils (24-count) ● (1) Mesh Zipper Pencil Pouch w/ 3 ring holes ● (2) Packs of Cap Erasers ● (2) Packs of Pink Erasers ● (2) Highlighters (Yellow) ● (2) Packs of Sticky Note Pads ● (1) Pair of Headphones
Fifth Grade
● (4) Composition Notebooks (black and white speckled/marble) ● (4) Packs of Loose Leaf Paper ● (1) Pack of Page Protectors ● (2) Packs of Ticonderoga Pencils ● (1) Pencil bag w/ 3 Ring Holes ● (1) Pack of Erasers ● (1) Pair of Earbuds ● (1) Water bottle with name labeled
SuperHeroes
● (4) Packs of Glue Sticks ● (1) Pencil Bag (no boxes) ● (1) Notebook (1-subject) ● (1) Pack of Ziploc Bags (Quart or Gallon)
Growing up in the country, we often had to “make do” when we needed a tool, toy, do-hickey or whatchamacallit.
I can still vividly recall the intricate system of roads, bridges and hills my brother, two cousins and I fashioned underneath our house, which sat high enough off the ground to allow crawl space. Using nothing but youthful vocal chords, we created the sound of engines whining, gears clanking and brakes squealing as our vehicles made their way over sandy roads and across bridges.
There, however, wasn’t a Tonka to be found. In fact, I doubt this popular brand of toy trucks and earth movers had yet been invented. Our vehicles? Brown snuff bottles. Our grandmother, who lived next door, was an avid snuff dipper and dipped and spat enough Garrett during her lifetime to half fill the Big Gully, a deep and wide chasm in the woods near our house. Thus, brown snuff bottles were never in short supply.
Then there were our handy flow-through fish baskets. Before collapsible wire baskets made their way to Goldonna, we used burlap bags, (toe-sacks, to us) to keep our fish fresh.
Before heading to the creek for a mess of fish, we didn’t drive to the bait shop for a basket of crickets; we’d dig our own bait out behind the cow barn. Flipping cow patties with a sharp shooter shovel, it was no trouble to extract enough red wigglers to catch all the goggle-eyes and stump perch we cared to clean.
I was abruptly thrust back to the snuff bottle – toe sack – cow patty days recently when my daughter and her family came for a visit. Keith, my son-in-law, was anxious to show me an intriguing contraption for catching fish bait, a device introduced to him by his brother.
“First, you find two sticks,” Keith explained as he walked me through the process of building a worm-catcher. Picking up two small branches from where I’d trimmed the hedge, he removed the leaves and cut each off to about a foot in length.
“Then you take your knife and whittle out notches in one of the sticks. That’s all there is to it,” he added as he serrated the stick with his pocket knife.
The proof was when Keith took his worm-finder to one of Kay’s flower beds and went to work. First, he planted the notched stick firmly against the ground, holding it in his left hand. With his right hand, he rapidly raked the smooth stick up and down over the serrated stick to produce a fluttering, whirring sound, something not unlike the sound a brown snuff bottle truck makes when it’s climbing a hill.
“Just wait”, Keith said, assuming I was starting to question my daughter’s wisdom in selecting her life’s mate. “You’ll see.”
He was right. Within a minute after beginning his worm-charming episode, night crawlers begin emerging from the mulch by the dozens, apparently agitated by the vibration.
I became interested enough in the idea of “charming” worms that I headed for the internet. I learned that worm charming is nothing new; in fact, they even have worm charming championships in England that have been in effect for decades.
This competition is to see who can entice the most worms out of the ground within a designated time period. How do they do it in jolly ole England?
The ground is banged with garden forks or sticks and because of the vibration of the soil, the worms come to the surface. There was even a man playing a saxophone near the ground.
Why am I just now finding out about these innovative methods of catching fish bait?
You think I couldn’t have impressed the cow patty/sharp shooter crowd back then if I’d been able to charm up some fishing worms with a couple of sticks, or a garden rake, or a kazoo?
Life ain’t fair.
“Using two sticks; one serrated and one smooth, to charm fishing worms out of the ground.” Glynn Harris photo
FISHING REPORT
CANEY LAKE – Bream fishing is beginning to slow down as the weather and water temperatures are heating up. Plastic worms and crank baits are picking up some good sized bass in deeper water around the secondary points especially at night. Crappie are best fishing jigs or shiners around submerged tops. 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 –Lots of moss and pads. Not many fishing this week. Contact Honey Hole Tackle Shop 323-8707 for latest information. BUSSEY BRAKE – Summer pattern is starting and bass are scattered and overall bass fishing has been fair. Crappie fishing has been good fishing around deep brush. Bream fishing has slowed. For latest information, contact the Honey Hole at 323-8707. OUACHITA RIVER –Crappie are best fishing shiners or jigs in the sloughs. Bream are still bedded in the backwaters. Bass fishing has been good fishing the mouth of sloughs. For latest information, contact the Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707. LAKE D’ARBONNE – Bass have been best early morning on topwaters with soft plastics, swim baits and crank baits working best later. Crappie are good on the flats and along the edges of the channels and hitting shiners and jigs. Bream are fair to good on the beds and taking crickets or worms. Catfishing is good fishing cold worms off the banks. For latest information, call Anderson Sport Center at 368-9669 or Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707. LAKE CLAIBORNE – There have been some reports of stripers starting to school and hitting shad imitation lures. Bass fishing is best early mornings on topwater lures with night fishing best fishing dark colored plastic worms and spinners. Crappie have moved deep and are best around submerged brush on shiners and jigs. Bream should still be around shallow bedding areas and hitting worms and crickets. For latest information, call Kel’s Cove at 927-2264 or Terzia Tackle at 278-4498. LAKE POVERTY POINT – Fishing overall has been quite slow this week except for catfish. For latest reports, call Poverty Point Marina at 318/878-0101. LAKE YUCATAN – The water is falling and fishing is on the verge of getting good. Bass, crappie and catfishing are all beginning to improve. For info call Surplus City Landing at 318/467-2259.
If your child attended preschool in Jackson Parish during the 2023-2024 school year, you may come to the Student Service Center, Room 51, at Jonesboro Hodge Middle School to pick up a set of mini books and a summer learning set for your child.
You will be asked to sign for the items when you pick them up. You will not have to return the items to the district. The items are for the student to keep at home for skill reinforcement. If you have any questions please call Bonnie Buckelew at 318-259-8802, ext. 9101.
While most students are staying as far away from school as they can during the summer break, members of the Jonesboro-Hodge Middle School football team is on the field almost daily preparing for the upcoming 2024 season.
This week, the JHMS football team recognizes Cameron Foster and Mason Campbell as TIGERS OF THE WEEK for their commitment to excellence. Their consistent hard work and dedication are evident in their growth, as they continue to become faster, stronger, and more knowledgeable about their playbook.
You can’t drive forward while looking in a rear-view mirror.
You can try and some do.
Ministers spend a great deal of time in a car driving to various places. I enjoy my automotive world. With technology, I can hear the phone ring despite playing my radio loud enough to change my heart rhythm. I play the radio so loud because I don’t hear well after all these years of playing the radio very loud in my car. The vehicle allows the phone call to interrupt my musical moment. I never miss a phone call while driving. When I am alone, the air-conditioning is on the “freeze out” setting. I want to make sure that my glasses fog up heavily when I exit the vehicle. If I can’t see at all, the air conditioning was cold enough. I also look for sermon illustrations while I am driving. Jesus is certainly watching, but I am too! When I raise the phone while driving, I’m not texting. I am photographing.
This morning driving to work, I had the radio loud and the air conditioning on “freeze out,” while I observed the world. In front of me was a black mustang convertible. There was a girl in the car. I could tell because she had her rearview mirror cocked in the “installing make up while driving” position. We sat at the light, and I watched as she applied some ointment, powder, or treatment to her face while the light was red. Because of the angle of the Mustang rear window, I could not tell if she continued applying make-up while driving. She was going “my way” and I did note she was an excellent driver and I’ll bet a super multi-tasker.
I have witnessed full facial make-overs while the person was driving the car. I have seen men put on a tie, send a text message, and read the newspaper at the same time while driving on the Interstate. But I am fascinated by the women who can put on that eye makeup stuff while driving. I have seen mascara going on while the nice lady was driving the car and making a cell phone call. I am amazed. They are doing all of this while looking backwards. The road they are traveling on is out the front window!
But really, you can’t drive forward looking in a rear-view mirror.
Jesus said, “If you put your hand to the plow and look back you are not worthy of the kingdom.”
Jesus was saying you need to keep your spiritual focus and your life looking forward. If you look back to regrets, mistakes, slights, hurts, sins, or even successes you will miss the beauty of this day.
Weston High School and the WHS Alumni Association announces that Assistant Principal, Evelyn Cooper, has announced her retirement after spending 41 years in the education system.
Beginning her career in Caddo Parish, Cooper then worked in the school systems in Lincoln Parish and Monroe City School System prior to coming to the Jackson Parish School District in 2015 where she has served at Weston High School as Assistant Principal over the elementary school.
Thanks to the LSU Ag 2023 Grant for Community Library Homesteading Project the Jackson Parish Library is now able to offer patrons an abundant seed library, heated propagation kits, egg incubators, butterfly habitats as well as multiple books to help educate you through the homesteading process.
To register for the items associated with the Homesteading Project, go by the Main Branch of the Jackson Parish Library, located at 614 South Polk Avenue in Jonesboro. You must have a current Library card to participate.
“Our Library Homesteading Project has become a huge success and an extreme asset to the communities of Jackson Parish,” said Jonesboro Branch Manager Angela Walsworth. “We are honored to be the recipient of such an amazing grant as well as our partnership with LSU Ag.”
Harvey Rabbit and Friends at JPL on July 2-3
The Jackson Parish Library is proud to present Harvey Rabbit and friends, Tim and Laura Allured, this Tuesday and Wednesday, July 2nd & 3rd. Featuring ventriloquism, puppetry, music, magic, comedy, dancing, acting and audience participation the entertaining act will first be at the Chatham Branch at 2:00 pm on Tuesday, followed by shows at 10:00 am and 2:00pm on Wednesday.
Every bass tournament is a series of decisions. Some will either make you or break you depending on which direction you decide to go. Some decisions are small while others are huge and can be the difference in winning or getting your butt kicked.
But one thing is understood. The decisions we make as anglers on the water, we must live with, as there’s no going back or asking for a redo. Today we’ll look at one of my last tournaments on Toledo Bend where I made the right decisions.
Let’s first look at practice and where my plan came together. One of my favorite areas that I like to focus on is the mid-lake region. By mid-lake, I’m talking about an area known as the 1215 area south to Negreet Creek. This is a huge portion of Toledo Bend and is highly regarded as some of the best fishing on the Bend.
During practice, Toledo Bend Lake levels were up about 1 foot above pool which is 172. For me, this meant that flipping bushes would come into play which is what I love to do. Nothing gets my juices flowing more than pitching a jig into a bush and pulling out a four or five-pound bass; it’s a rush I really can’t describe!
Well, I fished an area where I have had success over the years and only caught one four-pound bass. It was an area known for holding quality fish, but for some reason the bass just were not setting up on them…. yet. So, I then switched over to plan B and started fishing cypress trees on main lake points.
I quickly realized that this would work but didn’t feel like I could fully rely on this pattern as the lake level was starting to fall. I then switched to another pattern that I like especially after the spawn is over and that would be boat docks. Boat docks are a great place to fish as bass will seek refuge on docks as they recover from the physically draining spawn.
Now all docks are not created equal as some will hold bass when others will not. But I have found over the years that the docks closer to deeper water tend to hold bass better than the ones on a big flat.
As day 1 of the 2-day tournament approached, I decided to start on an early morning point fairly close to our take-off. The day before, I shook off over 15 fish on this one 40-yard stretch and thought this be a great place to get an early limit. Well, the good Lord above had different plans on day 1 as my great starting spot turned out to be a big fat zero.
So, I immediately switched to plan B once again, and started fishing a couple of stretches of boat docks I had gotten some quality bites on in practice. I ended the day with over 14 pounds and was sitting in the Top 10 after day 1.
Day 2 was pretty much the same routine, but with only a little over ten pounds in the boat at 12:00 noon, I decided to head north and flip bushes. Again, I only had 1 bite in the bushes in practice, but I just thought with the blue bird skies and the sun shining strong, that the bass would be looking to seek cover in the form of bushes.
Best decision I’ve made this year! My third cast into a bush with a jig resulted in a 3.5-pound bass and the culling party began. I was also able to get a few frog bites, but my main bait was the jig. In two hours, I had culled every fish in the live-well and came in with a bag just shy of 16 pounds for a two-day total of 30.81 lbs. and a 5th place finish.
Again, every bass tournament is a series of decisions. Some days you make great decisions and on others, you make bad ones. Most of the time with bass fishing, it’s all about timing. Some areas of the lake will turn on when other areas turn off. To be successful on tournament day, you must be in the right place at the right time.
Till next time, good luck, good fishing and be sure to wear your sunscreen and good protective clothing because Melanoma does not discriminate.
Residents of Forest Haven Nursing Home in Jonesboro enjoyed a “Night at the Movies” with Jackson Parish Cub Scout Pack #523 this past week. It was a grand time had by all as those in attendance enjoyed The Sandlot while also snacking on popcorn, sugar free ice cream, sodas and coke floats.
As a special treat, the Scouts also got the opportunity to meet with Forest Haven resident, Charles Buckley, who served as a Boy Scout Leader and shared his experiences.
Former Boy Scout Leader Charles Buckley (l) and current Scout Pack 523 Director Brian Hurt (r)
Do you have or know of a young person from the ages 8-14 who is interested in photography? If so, make sure and get them signed up for the Kids Photography Camp that will run from July 23rd – 26th.
Conducted by Ashley Wyatt, owner of Ruffled Feathers Photography this interesting and instructive camp that will take place at 208 Jimmie Davis Blvd. in Jonesboro will introduce future “shutter bugs” to the photography basics with hands on training along with games and worksheets designed to give the basic understanding of photography.
Decked out with their very own badge, your new photographer will leave with the experience and knowledge to pursue their photography skills with the opportunity to further their education with us in the future!
A “peoples choice” award will be given to one photographer at the end of camp based on their before and after pictures. The winners photo will be displayed in our studios window for your friends and family to view.
CLASSES WILL COVER:
History of Photography Gear Exposure (ISO, Shutter Speed, Aperture) White Balance Camera Presets Creative Composition Types of Photographers
Cost of the camp is $150.00 per person. You do not have to bring your own camera, but it is strongly encouraged!
I’m definitely a morning person; you might be groaning at the thought. Believe me; I haven’t always been a morning person. I regularly stayed up all night listening to future husband Norm Davis (WNDR DJ Syracuse NY). He worked the midnight shift and we spent most of the night talking on the phone. I often slept to noon.
Now I’m up before daylight.
Why not try to cultivate the habit of rising early? Rise with the sun; open your blinds or pull up the shades to begin a brand new day. Listen… you can hear the morning melody of chirping birds. Stretch to limber up tight muscles and take a deep breath. Praise the Lord; you just inhaled His gift of life.
“Then the Lord God formed the man of dust from the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and the man became a living person (Genesis 2:7 NASB).”
David was a morning person; he awoke early.
“My heart is steadfast, God, my heart is steadfast; I will sing, yes, I will sing praises! Awake, my glory! Awake, harp and lyre! I will awaken the dawn. I will praise You, Lord, among the peoples; I will sing praises to You among the nations. For Your goodness is great to the heavens And Your truth to the clouds. Be exalted above the heavens, God; May Your glory be above all the earth (Psalm 57:7-11 NASB).”
You say you’re a night person? You don’t know what you’re missing!
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.
JOB OPPORTUNITY
McDonald Memorial Baptist Church in Jonesboro, LA is seeking a bi-vocational Southern Baptist minister. If interested please send resume to mmbcchurch318@gmail.com
JOB OPPORTUNITY
The Jackson Parish Council on Aging is seeking part-time help for Nutrition Site Aid in Chatham, LA. A high school education is required and interested parties should expect to work four (4) hours a day, Monday – Friday while providing an exceptional attitude to senior citizens. Applications will be taken at the JPCOA office at 120 Polk Avenue in Jonesboro.
PUBLIC NOTICE
The Jackson Council on Aging is having their Annual Membership Drive. Please come by the office at 120 Polk Ave. Jonesboro if you are interested in serving on the Board of Directors.
PUBLIC NOTICE
BOIL ADVISORY
Chatham Water System PWS ID#1049004 Jackson Parish, Louisiana JUNE 24, 2024
The Chatham Water System has been placed under boil advisory by the Louisiana Department of Health because of BOOSTER PUMP FAILURE. This boil advisory affects New Hope St. Clair Water customers residing on LA Hwy 146 from Chatham Lake Rd to McConnell Rd.
The New Hope booster station is experiencing electrical problems causing the booster pump failure.
Therefore, as a precaution, the Chatham Water System is issuing a BOIL ADVISORY effective immediately.
This BOIL ADVISORY is to remain in effect until rescinded by the Chatham Water System.
It is recommended that all consumers disinfect their water before consuming it (including fountain drinks), making ice, brushing teeth, or using it for food preparation or rinsing of foods by the following means:
Boil water for one (1) full minute in a clean container. The one-minute starts after the water has been brought to a rolling boil. (The flat taste can be eliminated by shaking the water in a clean bottle or pouring it from one clean container to another, or by adding a pinch of salt to each quart of water that is boiled.)
Again, please be sure to disinfect your own water prior to consumption until you have been advised otherwise.
Upon notification from the Office of Public Health’s State Regional Laboratory that the samples collected from our water supply have been found to be safe, the State Health Department will notify the water supply of the sample results. Upon such notification, the Chatham Water System will then rescind the Boil Advisory and notify its customers that the water has been found to be safe.
Memorial services for Neal Godwin, will be held at 1:00 P.M., Monday, July 8, 2024, at Kilpatrick Funeral Home, West Monroe. Dr. Woods Watson will officiate. Interment will follow at the Northeast Louisiana Veterans Cemetery, Rayville, Louisiana, under the care and direction of Kilpatrick Funeral Homes, West Monroe. Visitation will be held at noon until time of service.
Neal Harvey Godwin was born April 15, 1940, to the union of Grace Munn and Gerald Godwin and entered into eternal rest on June 27, 2024, at St. Francis Hospital from complications following a heart attack in December 2023.
Neal was the fourth child and first son, so he was always considered special. He was blessed with multiple talents and a sharp intellect. Neal had a strong interest in the Antique Market, especially jewelry, furniture and artifacts of many kinds. He never met a stranger and always had a bag of tricks in his pocket and a quip of some sort.
During high school, Neal joined the Air Force and served on active duty for 8 years. He enjoyed his time spent in Thailand and The Phillipines. He served 2 tours in Vietnam at the height of the war. Neal was a “Load Master” calculating the amount of weight the aircraft could carry and remain in flight. Following an honorable discharge, he returned home to get his education. Neal enrolled in NLU (now ULM) and earned a degree in Accounting. He worked in that field a few years before deciding to join his father and younger brother, Travis, in the family construction company, CIG Contractors, Corinth, Mississippi. For the next 10 years or so, Neal supervised the building of schools, banks and numerous other commercial buildings. He left the construction business to pursue a nursing degree, primarily due to health issues of several family members and his own diabetes. Neal then enrolled in Northeast Community College in Booneville, Mississippi and received a degree in nursing. He worked as an ICU Critical Care Registered Nurse and a Certified Diabetic Educator, in Tennessee and Mississippi before retiring from Methodist Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee.
In 2016, Neal returned to West Monroe to be near his daughter and sisters. He made friends easily and quickly bonded with a group on “The Alley”. Antique Alley was a great delight for him. The highlight of his day, was his lunch at Roly Poly or Chick-Fil-A with his buddies and time spent with his “Alley” friends, especially Garrett, Bruce, Gene and Joe.
Neal was a member of First West, where he was a member of the Sumrall Men’s Class. He was also a member of the Northeast Louisiana Gem and Mineral Club.
Preceding him in death are his former wife of 47 years, Pennie Winters Godwin; his first wife and mother of his daughter, Lynda Jane Tardo Godwin; parents, Grace and Gerald Godwin; younger brother, Travis Godwin; one niece; three nephews; as well as his three brothers-in-law.
Those left to cherish his memory are his daughter, Melinda Adams (Chris); grandchildren, Juddy Rogers (Holley), Ashley Gates (Lance), Jarrett Rogers (Molly), Lindsey Adams; and seven great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his daughter Mel Chang (Daniel) and their two sons, from Singapore; sisters Geraldine DeLancy, Charlotte Baxter and Lila Hargrove; along with extended family and friends.
Mary Satcher July 13, 1931 – June 20, 2024
Ms. Mary Satcher passed away on June 20, 2024 at the age of 92 years old. Her Celebration of Life service was held on Saturday, June 29th at Bethany Baptist Church in Quitman. Interment followed at the Union Star Cemetery in Jonesboro under the direction of Paradise Funeral Home in Jonesboro.
Amanda Gorham Barnes September 6, 1970 – June 26, 2024
Amanda Gorham Barnes, age 53 of Winnfield, La., passed away on Wednesday, June 26, 2024 at Rapides Regional Medical Center in Alexandria, Louisiana. Born, Sunday, September 6, 1970 in Jonesboro, Louisiana, she lived a life full of love, laughter, faith, and adventure. She was a devoted mother, wife, and friend.
Mandy was a member of Corinth Baptist Church. Throughout her life, Mandy touched the hearts of so many with her kindness, selflessness, and unwavering love for her family and friends. One of her greatest joy’s in life was in a boat somewhere fishing. She will be remembered for her generosity, gentile spirit, and the lives she enriched with her presence.
She was preceded in death by her father Jerry Clay Gorham, Sr. and grandparents Jake and Mandy Gorham. Those left to cherish her memory are her loving husband Robert “Bobby” Barnes, mother Marilyn Joyce Wentworth Gorham, children Cody Morgan, Amber Clark (Caleb), Robert “Boog” Barnes, and Matthew Sepulvado, grandchildren, Presley Reeves, Lily Clark and Camdyn Clark, brother, Jerry Clay Gorham Jr., nephew Dustin Gorham (Brittney), and niece Casey Gorham. She is also survived by her furbabies Lulu, Smokey, Annie and Boosie.
She will be deeply missed by her family, friends and all who knew her.
Amanda’s funeral service was held on Saturday, June 29th at Southern Funeral Home in Winnfield.
Pallbearers were Jerry Gorham, Matthew Sepulvado, Robert Barnes, William Gates, Terry Lynn Sanders, and Steve Sanders.
The exact time it will take effect has not yet been determined but water rates for those on the Jonesboro Water System will be increasing. This is due to a mandate handed down by the Louisiana Rural Water Association.
“We have known for months that this was coming,” said Jonesboro Mayor James “Spike” Harris. “We proposed several scenarios to the LRWA that would not affect the current rates we have in place at present, but none were accepted, so now we have no choice other than to comply with their demands.”
What would be the recourse if the rates aren’t increased?
“We stand the chance to lose the grant money that has been appropriated to the town (1.5 million dollars) to help us get our system back to where it needs to be and certainly would affect any future assistance that possibly could be provided by the LRWA,” explained Harris. “We simply can’t afford to have that happen.”
For a little background on how dire the situation is, since 2009 the Town of Jonesboro has been losing an average of 1.3 million dollars a year in revenue that should have been generated by the water system. That tabulates to 19.5 million dollars over that time frame.
The reason for the loss is mainly due to the fact that the town has not been able to tabulate actual consumption for close to 15 years. This is because the electronic meter reading system that was installed at that time became inoperable, forcing an estimated fixed rate to be put into place.
“There has been only one rate increase since 2102 when the the flat rate increased from $12.00 to $16.00 per month for residents,” said Harris. “The rate currently being charged nowhere near brings in the funds that should be generated.”
Over the last 8 years, the LRWA has assisted the Town of Jonesboro but after the most recent study that was conducted, it was determined that no further aid would be granted unless there was an immediate remedy to the problem put in place.
“We were basically told that they (LRWA) has been carrying us but it is now time for us to stand on our own two feet,” concluded Harris.
As result the Town of Jonesboro investigated what it would cost to purchase new water meters and get them in operation so that actual water consumption rates could be tabulated. The total amount came to roughly 1.5 million dollars which the town was granted by the state of Louisiana Appropriations Committee.
“We really owe a great debt of gratitude to Representative Jack McFarland, who is Chairman of the State Appropriations Committee,” said Harris. “He really stepped up for our community so that we could get moving in the right direction.”
Recent meetings with town officials and the LRWA has resulted in two options being devised in order to comply with the demands handed down. Both show the flat rate for water consumption currently being paid by residents rising roughly $20.00 – $30.00 per month which will stay in place until the actual cost of water usage by location can be measured.
“According to the information we have received, we expect to continue to charge a flat rate until the first couple of months in 2026,” said Harris. “That is how long it is going to take to get the meters installed, in working operation and allow for a required water rate study that will last 6-9 months.”
Scenarios Proposed by the LRWA
Scenario 1
The Town of Jonesboro moves $260,000.00 out of the General Fund and put it in a fund designated solely for the water system. This money would come from funds the town received in from the federally provided American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) in 2022. The additional amount of money required would come from an increased flat rate being paid by customers of the Jonesboro Water System as shown on the table below until actual cost of water usage can be measured.
Classification of Water User
Flat Rate to be Charged
Residential Accounts Inside City Limits
$36.00 per month
Residential Accounts Outside City Limits
$46.00 per month
Commercial Accounts Inside City Limits
$70.00 per month
Commercial Accounts Outside City Limits
$80.00 per month
School Accounts
$250.00 per month
Scenario 2
The Town of Jonesboro DOES NOT move $260,000.00 out of the General Fund and put it in a fund designated solely for the water system.
Memorial services for Neal Godwin, will be held at 1:00 P.M., Monday, July 8, 2024, at Kilpatrick Funeral Home, West Monroe. Dr. Woods Watson will officiate. Interment will follow at the Northeast Louisiana Veterans Cemetery, Rayville, Louisiana, under the care and direction of Kilpatrick Funeral Homes, West Monroe. Visitation will be held at noon until time of service.
Ms. Mary Satcher passed away on June 20, 2024 at the age of 92 years old. Her Celebration of Life service was held on Saturday, June 29th at Bethany Baptist Church in Quitman. Interment followed at the Union Star Cemetery in Jonesboro under the direction of Paradise Funeral Home in Jonesboro.
Amanda Gorham Barnes, age 53 of Winnfield, La., passed away on Wednesday, June 26, 2024 at Rapides Regional Medical Center in Alexandria, Louisiana. Born, Sunday, September 6, 1970 in Jonesboro, Louisiana, she lived a life full of love, laughter, faith, and adventure. She was a devoted mother, wife, and friend.