There’s gonna be the best kind of Earthquake during next weekend’s Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Induction Celebration.

Specifically, it’s going to happen next Friday evening into night, June 21, in Natchitoches, on the Rue Beauport stage bordering Cane River Lake smack dab in the middle of the City of Lights’ historic and beautiful downtown district.

The Louisiana Music Hall of Fame show band, Johnny Earthquake and the Moondogs, will provide the prevailing vibe for the coolest concert for miles around, the free Rockin’ Riverfest party presented by Rapides Regional Medical Center.

Cranking things up will be the energetic and enthusiastic south Louisiana group Coteau Grove, performers who also are in the Louisiana Music Hall of Fame.

Go online to TheMoondogs.com and CoteauGrove.com websites for a great scouting report on the Rockin’ Riverfest’s soundtrack.

Good times will abound during the riverfront concert, which runs from 6 p.m. to 10:30. One of the highlights: a little after 9 o’clock, the Hall’s impressive Class of 2024 will be introduced on stage, and celebrated with a 10-minute fireworks show set to sports-themed music over Cane River Lake. And yes, you read correctly. It’s free. There will be food and beverage vendors on the riverfront, and of course, Front Street’s always fun watering holes/restaurants are just a few steps away.

It’s family friendly. A free interactive kids zone presented by Louisiana Propane Dealers will include basketball, football, golf and science games for all ages to enjoy.
If you want to beat the summer heat and enjoy a tasty collection of Louisiana foods and specialty refreshments, you better hurry and visit LaSportsHall.com to snap up a few of the fast-disappearing $100 tickets to the VIP Taste of Tailgating presented by Hancock Whitney.

That party runs from 7-10 p.m. in the air-conditioned comfort of Mama’s Oyster House and Blues Room that will provide exclusive access to the 12-member 2024 Induction Class.

That star-studded group includes women’s basketball superstar Seimone Augustus, Super Bowl MVP Drew Brees, Tulane basketball coaching hero Perry Clark, Olympic wrestler and MMA legend Daniel Cormier, Grambling baseball icon Coach Wilbert Ellis, south Louisiana high school football coaching great Frank Monica, Olympic gold medalist and LSU All-American wrestler Kevin Jackson, New Iberia/McNeese product and 19-year pro footballer Kerry Joseph, and one of America’s winningest jockeys, Sunset’s Ray Sibille.

Acclaimed Louisiana sports journalists Bobby Ardoin and Ron Higgins, and longtime Southland Conference commissioner Tom Burnett, round out the Class of 2024.
Maybe we’ll see the musical debut of Seimone and Sibille, or perhaps we’ll hear Kerry, Perry and Kevin crooning on stage. Could DC and Drew show dance moves? Frank Monica on the harmonica? Anything is possible as the Rockin’ Riverfest rolls on.

Join the fun and celebrate some of Louisiana’s sports greats, for free, on Friday evening, June 21, in downtown Natchitoches. For information on all of the events during the June 20-22 Class of 2024 Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Induction Celebration, visit LaSportsHall.com or call 318-238-4255.

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(Damian Simoneaux, LWCC Safety Services Manager)  – According to the National Safety Council, preventable work injuries cost more than $167 billion and contributed to the loss of more than 75 million workdays in 2022, the last year for which stats are available. That’s why it is vitally important for employers to create a workplace safety plan to reduce accidents and injuries on the job.

A successful safety and risk management program requires detailed planning, careful implementation, and employers and employees who are committed to a strong safety culture.

To get started, follow LWCC’s (Louisiana Workers Compenation Corporation) five steps to safety: inspect, analyze, evaluate, plan, and train.

1. INSPECT
Walk through your worksite and facilities looking for any potential hazards, including everything from tripping risks to inadequate lighting. Inspect your workplace regularly to identify actual and potential hazards as they emerge.
2. ANALYZE
When accidents happen in the workplace, analyze how and why they occurand what adjustments could prevent the accident from happening again.
3. EVALUATE
Keeping the worksite inspection and accident analysis in mind, it’s important to assess the effectiveness of existing safety measures and protocols. LWCC’s self-evaluation safety survey can help. Visit LWCC.com/resources for a quick, 25-question survey to guide your evaluation.
4. PLAN
By clearly defining your policies in a safety plan, you’ll establish a culture of responsibility and accountability, better manage your risks, and have materials readily available if an incident occurs. If you’re unsure where or how to start, visit LWCC.com/resources, where you can find guides and templates to develop a written plan.
5. TRAIN
Your safety plan should include training guidelines to set a standard for workplace safety and best practices. Educating employees helps them understand why safe practices are necessary and how they can minimize accidents. Be sure to make safety training part of your onboarding process for new employees.

LWCC’s commitment to safety spans across Louisiana, aiming to foster secure work environments for all. While certain services are exclusive to policyholders, we believe in promoting a culture of safety that extends beyond our insureds. At LWCC.com, we offer a variety of resources and tools available to anyone seeking help to enhance workplace safety. From informative articles to helpful safety guides, our website serves as a hub to empower businesses and individuals alike to prioritize safety in their workplaces.

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Swallow Your Pride

Regardless of how it’s served, humble pie is hard to swallow.

It’s never easy to eat our words. Let’s be honest, we’re fast in finding the failings of others. If they’re at fault we expect an apology. Maybe they deny any responsibility? That really ruffles our feathers!

‘Why don’t you admit it?’

Why don’t we?

Instead of admission of guilt, we pass it off as human nature.

‘I’m only human.’

Making matters worse, we begin the blame game.

‘The devil made me do it.’

You might be surprised to learn that humble pie’s really not all that bad. Chew thoroughly and swallow your pride.

“…clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because God is opposed to the proud, but He gives grace to the humble.

Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, so that He may exalt you at the proper time, having cast all your anxiety on Him, because He cares about you. Be of sober spirit, be on the alert. Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour (1 Peter 5:5b-8 NASB).”

Humble me, LORD. I confess my sins.

“If we say that we have no sin, we are deceiving ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous, so that He will forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make Him a liar and His word is not in us (1 John 1: 8-10 NASB).”

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To have your Business Services, Job Opportunities, Items for sale, Wanted to Buy and Public / Legal Notices published – send an email to: jpjjacksonla@gmail.com. Possible costs are dependent on content. 

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. 

JOB OPPORTUNITY

The Jackson Parish Police Jury is hiring for the following open position. Please submit all applications to: Jackson Parish Police Jury Administrative Building, 160 Industrial Drive, Jonesboro, LA 71251. Applications will be received until 4:30 pm on Friday, June 21, 2024. To request a detailed job description, please contact our office at (318) 259-2361 or by email: nevans@jppj.org.

POSITION: General Laborer
DEPARTMENT: Jackson Parish Road Department

Description:
Under close supervision, the Road Department General Laborer performs unskilled manual labor, operation of light equipment requiring no special training or experience, and performs related work as required by the supervisor. Laborers in this position class are also responsible for the operation of a variety of construction and maintenance equipment and for performing manual labor activities as needed and/or required by the Road Department.

Minimum Qualifications:
• Must be 18 years of age.
• High school diploma, or equivalent, required.
• Class E Driver’s License; progression towards a CDL license a plus.
• Three (3) months of experience in the operation of equipment listed above preferred, but not required.
• Must be able to lift up to 100 pounds frequently.
• Ability to work safely in all weather conditions, including adverse conditions.
• Can understand and follow oral and written instructions.
• Able to work in elevated areas, confined spaces, and on and off ladders.
• Must be able to sit and stand for extended periods of time.

Basic Responsibilities:
• The General Laborer is responsible for performing industrial and safety housekeeping of assigned areas following the instructions from their Supervisor.
• Operates Police Jury-owned vehicles, such as pick-up trucks, backhoe, street sweeper, dump trucks, farm–type tractors, bush hog cutters, boom mowers, etc. as required.
• Operates hand and power tools and equipment, such as mowers, chain saws, air compressor, small compaction equipment, etc. as required.
• Mows grass and rights of ways with hand power equipment.
• Uses hand tools to load and unload sand, dirt, gravel, and hot and cold mix asphalt.
• Repairs pot holes.
• Required to inspect and repair equipment as directed by department procedures, as well as be able to make repairs to parish roads, curbs and sidewalks.
• Performs road and ditch maintenance and associated work.
• Cleans culverts and other drainage structures including placing rip rap and filter cloth.
• Sweeps streets, shop, and sidewalks; cleans up debris and materials from roads, bridges, and culverts.
• Flags traffic when needed.
• Manually moves and transports equipment, materials, etc.
• Loads and unloads materials from trucks including debris, sand, dirt, gravel, etc.
• Cleans trucks, replaces blades, and other maintenance of equipment as needed.
• Performs building maintenance, cleaning offices, restrooms, and shop as needed.
• Assists operators, truck drivers, mechanics etc. with specific projects as requested.
• Performs a variety of other heavy manual work in connection with the maintenance of streets, bridges, and drainage of parish roads.
• Ready to learn from on-the-job training when necessary.
• Follows safety procedures and practices as required, as well as wearing required safety equipment.
• Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

Detailed Job Description available upon request.

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 

Jackson Parish Police Jury Meeting Minutes
June 10, 2024

The Jackson Parish Police Jury met in regular session on Monday, June 10, 2024, at 5:30 PM in the Nathaniel Zeno, Jr. meeting room, 160 Industrial Drive, Jonesboro, Louisiana. Members Present: Mr. Todd Culpepper, Ms. Amy Magee, Ms. Sheketia Combs, Ms. Regina Rowe, Mr. Lewis Chatham and Ms. Nia Evans. Also present: Mr. Brad Roller, Operations Manager; Mr. Wayne Anderson, Road Superintendent; and Mr. Robin Sessions, Solid Waste Superintendent. Ms. Tarneshala Cowans and Mr. Keith Burris were absent.

The President, Mr. Culpepper, called the meeting to order. Ms. Rowe gave the invocation and Mrs. Magee led in the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance.

The President opened the floor for public comments. There were no public comments.

The President moved to the approval of minutes.
Motion- Mrs. Magee, seconded Ms. Rowe to adopt the minutes of the May 13, 2024, regular jury meeting, monthly purchase orders, and the payment of all bills. Motion carried.

The President called for approval of committee reports.
Motion- Mr. Chatham, seconded Mrs. Magee to adopt the minutes of the May 20, 2024, Veterans Committee Meeting. Motion carried.
Motion- Mrs. Magee, seconded Mr. Chatham to adopt the minutes of the May 29, 2024, Road Committee meeting with one correction. Motion carried.
Motion- Mr. Rowe, seconded Mrs. Combs to adopt the minutes of the May 30, 2024, Finance Committee meeting. Motion carried.

The President called for monthly management reports.
Mr. Brad Roller, Operations Manager, gave the May 2024 Operations Manager Reports.

Mr. Wayne Anderson, Road Superintendent, presented the May 2024 Road Report noting that $10,721.76 had been spent on emergency callouts/off-schedule work.
Motion- Mrs. Magee, seconded Mr. Chatham to accept the May 2024 emergency/off-schedule reports. Motion carried.

Mr. Robin Session, Solid Waste Superintendent, presented the May 2024 Solid Waste Report.

The President moved to Other Business.

Mr. Paul Riley presented the Engineer’s Report.

Motion- Mrs. Magee, seconded Mrs. Combs to approve the Cooperative Endeavor Agreement from the LSU AG Center in the amount of $12,000. Motion carried.

Motion- Mr. Chatham, seconded Ms. Rowe to approve Edquado Howard and Walter Johnson to attend the Louisiana Solid Waste Association training to be held on July 9 & 10, 2024. Motion carried.

Motion- Ms. Rowe, seconded Mr. Chatham to approve the purchase of culverts needed to make the repairs on Siloam Church Rd. in the amount of $13,164.35 Motion carried.

Motion- Ms. Rowe, seconded Mrs. Combs to approve the Ruston Daily Leader to be the official journal for the dates of June 1, 2024 through May 31, 2025. Motion carried.

Motion- Mrs. Magee, seconded Mrs. Combs to approve the implementation of the 2% COLA increase adopted in the 2024 budget excluding the Operations Manager and Secretary-Treasurer, with the effective date of July 1, 2024. Motion carried.

Motion- Mrs. Magee, seconded Ms. Rowe to approve the operations manager to attend all required training for the Floodplain Administrator’s role. Motion carried.

Motion- Mr. Chatham, Mrs. Combs to approve the road repair request from the Village of North Hodge upon the receipt of the required documentation, materials, and payment. Motion carried.

Motion- Ms. Rowe, seconded Mr. Chatham to adjourn. Motion carried.

PUBLIC NOTICE

Village of Chatham Council Meeting
June 11, 2024

The Village of Chatham met at its regularly scheduled meeting on Tuesday, June 11, 2024, at 6:00 pm. Present were Mayor Gregory Harris, council members Bernadean James, Toni Malone, Sue Proffer and Mike Wilson. Council member Lavern Mixon was absent. The meeting was called to order by Mayor Harris. The pledge was led by council member Toni Malone and prayer was given by Mayor Harris.

Mike Wilson motioned, Toni Malone seconded and was approved by all to accept the minutes as read of the regular meeting held on May 14, 2024.
Toni Malone motioned, seconded by Mike Wilson, and approved by all to pay the monthly bills.
Mike Wilson motioned, seconded by Bernadean James, and approved by all to adopt Ordinance #2024-02 amending the budget for FY 2023- 2024.
Bernadean James motioned, seconded by Mike Wilson and approved by all to adopt Ordinance #2024-03 setting the budget for FY 2024-2025.
Toni Malone motioned, seconded by Bernadean James and approved by all to not install speed bumps within the village limits of Chatham.
Sue Proffer motioned, seconded by Mike Wilson and approved by all to set the millage at 7.41 mills for the 2024 tax roll.
Toni Malone motioned, seconded by Bernadean James and approved to accept the financial statements as presented.
Mike Wilson motioned, seconded by Toni Malone, and approved by all to adjourn the meeting.

 

 

Stella (Cox) Alexander
May 21, 1929 – June 11, 2024

Stella Cox Alexander was born May 21, 1929 in North Hodge, Louisiana to Arthur Cox and Melvina (Frame) Shively. She passed away in Jonesboro, Louisiana on June 11, 2024 at the age of 95.

Stella is survived by her five children: sons Richard Alexander and companion Celia Wall of Ruston, Louisiana; Eddie Alexander and wife Roseann of Ellijay, Georgia; Leslie Alexander and wife Teresa of Pineville, Louisiana; and daughters Donna Alexander of Jonesboro, Louisiana and Glenda Rhoads and husband James of Downsville, Louisiana. In addition, she leaves behind 14 grandchildren and 24 great grandchildren as well as her siblings; Mary Blewer, Billy Cox, Hazel Cox and Beatrice Williams.

Stella was preceded in death by her husband, Everett Alexander; grandson, Donnie Ray Searcy; granddaughter, Angel Renae Alexander; her parents and 3 siblings; Henry Cox, Ronald Dale Cox and Fred Cox.

In addition to being a loving wife and rearing five children, Stella worked hard outside the home at various places including Carson’s Cleaners and Beall-Ladyman in Jonesboro. She was an excellent seamstress and a master at needle-point, quilting and crocheting. There was nothing she couldn’t do with a needle and thread and she enjoyed making gifts for everyone after she retired.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, June 15, 2024 in the chapel of Southern-Edmonds Funeral Home with Bro. Randy Dark officiating. Stella was laid to rest in Garden of Memories Cemetery under the direction of Southern-Edmonds Funeral Home. 

Serving the family as pallbearers was Joe Everett Alexander, John Odenbaugh, Cameron Odenbaugh, Heath Ramsey, James Ramsey, Ben Ramsey.

Stella’s family would like to extend a special “Thank You” to the Jackson Parish Hospital nurses, staff, and Dr. Ed Mariano for the care they gave her during her stay.

Jerry Lane Warren, Sr.
November 26, 1941 – June 10, 2024

Jerry Lane Warren was born November 26, 1941 in Ashland, Louisiana and passed away on Monday, June 10, 2024 in Ruston, Louisiana at the age of 82.

Jerry spent his childhood roaming the gravel roads and woods of rural north Natchitoches Parish. He always remembered it as a wonderful time spent with great friends and family. A motorcycle wreck as a teenager put him in a wheelchair for most of his senior year of high school, but he took great pride in the fact that he was able to walk across the stage to receive his diploma.

As a young man, he got his first glimpse of a young lady on the steps of Old Saline Baptist Church and fell in love. Together he and Betty had 3 of what he called “knucklehead boys”. They were married for over 60 years at the time of her passing.

Most of his working life was spent as a bridge builder for the Louisiana Department of Transportation, but he also worked as a welder, mechanic, farm laborer and tractor operator through the years. His lifelong job, however, was being a professional coffee drinker. Jerry loved watching westerns, playing cards, working puzzles and reading his Bible. Most of all, though, he loved visiting with family and friends. He always had a smile, a laugh, and a story to share.

Jerry was preceded in death by his wife, Betty Hood Warren, by his parents, James Alvin Warren and Vera Lucille Ramsey Warren, and his brother, James Reginald “Reggie” Warren.

Those left to cherish his memory include his three sons Lane Warren and wife Patricia, Barry Warren, and Greg Warren and wife Patti. He is also survived by 8 grandchildren- Dakota, Dusty, Bray, Noelle, James, Brittany, Brianna and Melaina, along with 10 great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

Funeral services were held at Magnolia Baptist Church in Saline on Thursday, June 13 with Brother Stan Foster and Brother BJ Hood presiding. Interment followed at Old Saline Cemetery.

Serving the family as pallbearers wasEddie Warren, Jamie Warren, Mike Ramsey, Steve Ramsey, Bert Hood, and Howard Walsworth. Honorary pallbearers were Ron Badgley, Billy Allen, Timmy Ramsey, and David Bumgardner.

Edna Lucille Barron
September 5, 1930 – June 13, 2024

Mrs. Edna Lucille Wright Barron, age 93 of Winnfield, Louisiana passed away on Thursday, June 13, 2024.

Born Friday, September 5, 1930 in Winnfield, Louisiana, she was a long-standing member of Zion Hill Baptist Church. Mrs. Edna will be remembered as having a sweet and gentle soul who loved everyone.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Willie Carlyle Wright and Nanny Edna Pray Wright; husbands, Durwood Jordan and Robbie Barron; children, Randy Barron and Dorothy Gilcrease; siblings, J.C. Wright, Mary Bemont and Shirley Jones.

Those left to cherish her memory include her children, Monty Jordan and Marshall Jordan; 6 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Graveside funeral services will be held at 2:30 PM on Sunday, June 16, 2024 at Zion Hill Cemetery with Rev. David Moore officiating. Interment will follow under the direction of Southern Funeral Home in Winnfield.

The family will receive friends at Southern Funeral Home on Sunday from 1:00 PM until 2:15 PM.

Serving the family as pallbearers will be Cody Jordan, Dakota Jordan, Garland McCracken, Colt Barron, Randy Ellis and Austin Jones. Honorary pallbearers will be Bradie Humphries, Josh McAllister, Travis Lee Young, Rob Cowan and Paxton Cowan.

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The Jonesboro State Bank, located at 109 Jimmie Davis Blvd in Jonesboro, was robbed on Wednesday, June 12th, in a brazen daytime attempt that netted the perpetrator an undisclosed amount of money – for about 8 minutes. 

That was how long it took for Jackson Parish Sheriff Office deputies to nab Justin Nash, who is now in custody under a charge of Robbery. No one was injured during the theft.

No further information is available at present as this is still an ongoing investigation. 

Statement by Jackson Parish Sheriff Office

This morning the Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office received a call that the Jonesboro State Bank was being robbed. Deputies were on scene within minutes and received a description’s the suspect that left on foot. Within 8 minutes the suspect was in custody. The suspect is identified as Justin Nash. He is being charged with Robbery at this time and no bond information is available. No one was injured during this incident.

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The Town of Jonesboro Board of Aldermen had their regularly scheduled monthly meeting on Tuesday, June 11th at the Charles H. Garrett Community Center. A large throng of visitors was on hand but due to several councilmen being absent a quorum could not be established forcing the meeting to be cancelled. 

Regardless, the ones who were there left with a renewed sense of vitality and enthusiasm for the prospects of the future of the town. This was because of the announcement made by Mayor James “Spike” Harris that Jonesboro was in line for a tremendous financial windfall by the state. 

“I am pleased to announce that the Town of Jonesboro will be receiving 1.9 million dollars in grants in the next six months,” Harris informed the ones present. 

At that point Harris turned the floor over to Henry Shuler of Shuler Consulting Company based in Chatham, who further explained the upcoming financial boon the town will see. 

“Jonesboro will receive 1.5 million dollars in non-matching grant money,” beamed Shuler. “This will be earmarked for the purchase of water meters. The town will also receive $100,000.00 in non-matching funds designated for street repairs.”

What makes the awards even better is that unlike most grants received, the town does not have to provide matching funds to secure the money. Normally when a grant is given, the receiver has to pay a certain amount to the state to get the funds. 

“We had to have these meters in order to get our water system back to where it provided a positive cash flow for the town after years of losing money,” explained Harris. “We were looking at being forced to take out a loan, which would have made our financial condition even worse but thanks to these non-matching grants now we can move forward without incurring any additional expenses.”

Harris and Shuler also expressed their gratitude to LA District 13 Representative and LA Appropriations Chairman, Jack McFarland, who was instrumental in Jonesboro receiving the awards.

“This wouldn’t have happened without Representative McFarland pushing this through,” said Shuler. 

“We certainly owe a big debt of gratitude to Jack for helping us with this,” agreed Harris.

The money for both grants is expected to be received in two to three months. 

Jonesboro is also in line to receive an additional $300,000.00 in a capital outlay grant in the next six months for the upgrade of two lift stations. This grant does have a 25% match required, meaning the town will have to come up with $75,000.00 to get the money.  

As the meeting officially didn’t take place but was more of an informative session, Mayor Harris said a special called meeting will be scheduled in the near future. At that time the purchase of new electronic meters will be discussed along with the proposed change in water rates for the residents of the Jonesboro Water System. 

 

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The grand opening of a new business in Jackson Parish was celebrated on Monday, June 10th when Brandy and Skeet Richardson cut the ceremonial ribbon to commemorate their new business Fluffin’ Right.

The new business is located at 8254 Quitman Hwy in Quitman where along with professional grooming of your pets services will include Visual Health Check, Aromatherapy Infuse Bath with a Hydro-massage, Premium Shampoo and Conditioner, Tooth Brushing & Breath Spray, Towel Massage, Blow-Dry and Blow-out (We do not cage dry), Ear cleaning, Haircut (Long Hair Breeds Only), Anal gland expression if needed, De-shed (Double Coated Breeds only), Nail trim, Nail Filing to smooth, Finishing Spray, Bandanna, Bow-tie, Bow, or other accessories, and Express No Kennel Grooms

 

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There is an old story about a young child asking his father what was the most important thing a person could do with his life. The wise parent quickly said, “Make a Mark!” 

The youngster was confused. What did he mean by that? Was he supposed to write on something? His curiosity to know more prodded him to ask his father to explain what he meant. 

“There is nothing better you can do in life than make a mark,” said his father who then explained in greater detail. “When I tell you to make a mark what I am saying is to do something that is so beneficial to others that they will always remember you for it.” 

That is what Star Booker is doing. 

For those of you who don’t know this “rising star”, she the daughter of Jackson High alums and Jonesboro residents, Don and Clara Booker, and the grand daughter of the beloved Maddie Booker who spent her life feeding countless thousands of JHHS students. Star is also a JHHS graduate, being the Valedictorian of the Class of 2006.

Recently Staja “Star” Booker, PhD, RN, who is a College of Nursing professor at the University of Florida,  was awarded a $1 million National Institutes of Health grant to study pain self-management intervention among African-American  senior citizens.

Funded by the National Institute of Nursing Research her study is  titled: “Testing the Pain Relief of Musculoskeletal Conditions and Arthritis using Culturally Tailored Interventions for Black Elders (PROACTIVE) Intervention: A Randomized Controlled Trial.”

The study will involve 120 self-identifying Black participants, age 50 and older, with chronic musculoskeletal conditions causing pain upon movement. Older Black Americans tend to shy away from long-term use of opioids as well as invasive arthritis treatments, instead relying on alternative forms of pain management. The study will investigate the efficacy of strategies that address their social determinants, according to the project’s summary.

Participants will receive a mix of culturally congruent pain management education with a physical toolkit of self-management products, active prayer and financial/insurance counseling to explain participants’ health care benefits for pain care. After the four-week intervention, researchers will determine if the strategies reduced the participants’ pain.

It allows Star to pursue a life long desire that she realized as a nursing student at JHHS and cultivated as a nurses assistant working weekends at Forest Haven Nursing Home in Jonesboro. 

“I saw so many seniors in pain and it motivated me to want to find a way to help them” reflected Booker in an exclusive interview with the Jackson Parish Journal. “I just felt that there had to be a better way to help them than what has always been done.”

“My resolve to address health disparities remains unchanged because assessment and treatment of pain in older adults remains a significant problem worldwide. Our progress towards pain treatment equity and precision is much improved, but still more is needed, especially for underserved older adults. My motto for this project is that “We walk by FAITH (Finding Arthritis Interventions That Help),” Booker said when discussing her work.

Booker received her undergraduate degree in nursing at Grambling State University in 2010 and a dual masters degree in Adult Health and Gerontology from Penn State University in 2012. She received her PhD from the University of Iowa in 2017

 

 

 

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Weston High School has a rich tradition of success at state competition. This past week that legacy was continued by the seven members representing the school who are Abel McBride, Cejay Colvin, Cory Tucker, Collin Shows, Alyssa Holland, Molly Beaubouef and Nathan Pierce. 

Cejay Colvin placed first in Diversified Horticulture, earning a trip to national’s this Fall, while also placing 4th in Vegetable Production. Several members also competed in the Farm Business Management CDE.

As a chapter, WHS received the 100% membership award. In addition, McBride, Holland, and Colvin all received their State FFA degrees and Colvin and Pierce served as voting delegates for the Chapter. Beaubouef was also installed as the Area 1 Federation Reporter for 2024-2025. 

“These 7 members and several others have worked hard all year trying to slowly build piece by piece a FFA chapter that not only they can be proud of but a chapter that is being built into something that everyone in the school, community, and alumni can take pride in,” said WHS FFA director Derek Shields. “The chapter is helping these students build skills that will be used for the rest of their lives no matter what they choose as their career path.”

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The Jackson Parish 7-8 girls all-star softball team participated in the Sterlington Tournament this past weekend winning three of the five games played and finishing as runner up.

Under the tutelage of head coach Kyle Allen and assistants James Conn, Donovan Shultz and Justin Dodson, JP7-8 opened play by romping past the Rayville Darlings 8U by a 16-6 score. Ruston National 8U then dropped the locals 15-3 in Saturday’s final game setting up a three game, back-to-back-to-back stretch on Sunday.

Jackson Parish found their offense again in the first game that led to a 17-2 victory over Ruston American 8U. This was followed by a thrilling  11-10 win over tourney host Sterlington 8U All-Stars, setting up a rematch against Ruston National for the tourney title. The locals did better this time around but fell short by a 14-9 margin. 

“I was very pleased with the way we played,” said Allen. “The effort the girls showed was amazing. The temperature on the turf showed 115 degrees on Sunday and despite having to play three straight games they never took their foot off the gas till the final out.” 

The Little League District “Coach Pitch” tournament is scheduled to be played June 21-25 in Bossier City with the state tournament that will be played in Broussard slated to begin play July 12th.  

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Webster’s Dictionary defines revival several different ways. One being an improvement in the condition or strength of something. Another is an instance of something becoming popular, active, or important again. Then there is the religious meaning of a reawakening of religious fervor, especially by means of a series of evangelistic meetings.

All of the above are accurate descriptions of what is going on at the Jonesboro-Hodge Methodist Church. 

Several months ago the congregation of the oldest church in Jonesboro broke away from the United Methodist Church national directorship. Wanting to get back to bible based theology, and move away from the unacceptable “new” doctrine  being handed down, like many other Methodist churches across the nation and most in north Louisiana, the members decided to strike out as an independent organization.

The move was risky in the fact that no longer did the church have the blanket of security offered by the United Methodist collaboration. It meant the district no longer furnished a pastor and finances were no longer guaranteed. 

Undaunted, the members took the bold step to re-establish the religious doctrines that John Wesley founded the denomination on and once again make the Methodist Church a thriving symbol of Christianity.

The result is that revival has come! 

Come and join in the exciting new birth of the JHMC led by the dynamic evangelist, Chris Witt, (shown at right with his wife) who is helping kick start the new beginning by leading services for the next three weeks. After that, new pastor Gary Green, who comes from Trinity Methodist in Ruston, will serve as permanent pastor where he will continue the exhilarating resurgence being felt. 

Jonesboro-Hodge Methodist Church is located at 402 4th Street in Jonesboro. Sunday services begin at 11:00 am.

 

 

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With graduation taking nearly half the roster and almost 80% of the scoring from a year ago, the Weston High School boys basketball team will need for many untested players to step up in the 2024-25 season in order to be successful. 

While head coach Jacob Otwell’s cupboard was left mostly bare it is not without promise. 

That is being proved evident by the growth shown by the team during summer play that has found Weston increasingly getting better. The Wolves opened their summer session by losing to Saline 26-23 on May 28th. Bryce Zehr, the lone starter back from last year led Weston with 8 points. Kason Roberts added three with Ashad Harris, Daniel Williams, Brody Tidwell, Cole Otwell and Nathin Wages all scoring two each. 

Weston lost their second contest as well but improved their scoring by eight points in the 44-31 defeat against Calvin. Zehr, once again was the offensive catalyst with 14 points with the Harris boys, LaJavion and Ashad scoring four each. Hunter Donaldson added three, Tidwell and Dawson Clifton scored two each and both Aden Faulkner and Williams chipped in with a free throw. 

The Wolves showed even more improvement in their third contest, gaining revenge over Calvin 35-24. A much better team scoring effort was exhibited as Zehr led the way with 9 points followed closely by Wages who ended with eight. Williams chipped in with six, and both Abram Toms and Clifton finished with five each. Tanner Allen added two. 

 

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On July 6th, 2023, the Deacons of Defense Park and Civil Rights Trail, located just off Hwy 167 in Jonesboro was dedicated. The initial construction which featured a monument and a walking trail was just part of the vision that Jonesboro Mayor James “Spike” Harris had.

Recently what Harris had in mind started taking further shape as a new stoned paved walkway, benches and a flower bed was installed enhancing the parks beauty. This past week even more amenities were added as playground equipment was constructed. 

“The plan is to make the park a place where parents can bring their children and not only learn about our rich heritage but enjoy themselves as well,” said Harris. “More improvements and additions are planned as well so that hopefully one day soon the park will be a place that will be not only pleasing to see but fun to be at.”

 

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For many high school age students, summer time means a break from the rigors of school activities. For others, like the Quitman High School boys varsity basketball team, it is a time used to perfect their skills and become a more cohesive team. 

In an effort to prepare for the 2024-25 season, head coach Mike Black and his Wolverines took part in the Louisiana Tech team basketball camp held at the Thomas Assembly Center in Ruston this past week.

QHS lost several starters to graduation this past year but the youthful bunch showed plenty of promise as they won three of the four games played giving heed to the promise of a successful season.  

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We catch a lot of heat in Louisiana for being backward and a few baseballs shy of a sack. Last in this and next-to-last in that.

Sometimes I think the rest of America just makes stuff up about us so they can feel better about themselves.

True, we bring some of it on ourselves.

But one thing we’ve about got figured out, and that’s ball. Any sport of any kind — we’ll take a knee and give you the winter sports — we’ll call you and raise you.

Louisiana knows ball. Louisiana knows all about competition. And winning.

Case in point: the annual Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Induction Ceremonies are a week from Saturday, June 22, in Natchitoches, home of the state’s Hall. (To be a part of the celebration, visit LASportsHall.com and join in the three-day festivities, beginning Thursday afternoon, June 20. Good times!)

Among the “only” inductees we could come up with this year are NFL record-setting passer and Super Bowl XLIV MVP Drew Brees of your New Orleans Saints, eight-time WNBA All-Star Seimone Augustus of Capitol High in Baton Rouge, 1992 Olympic wrestling gold medalist and LSU All-American Kevin Jackson, and Breeders’ Cup-winning thoroughbred jockey Ray Sibille from Sunset, who in retirement was selected by his peers as the winner of the George Woolf Memorial Jockey Award, given annually “for career achievements and personal character that reflect positively on the sport of thoroughbred racing”; his mounts won nearly $69 million over a 35-year career.

And that’s not even HALF the class.

Most other states are scraping around to find three or maybe four inductees into their Sports Halls each year. Our 40-person Louisiana Sports Writers Association selection committee dukes it out all year until a Sunday in August when we gather and fistfight and pray and laugh and argue until we can settle on eight — and that’s not counting a couple of other awards that honor top-shelf media and worldwide leaders from Louisiana.

This year the panel considered 149 nominees from 28 different sports categories. The ballot was 35 pages.

It’s not easy, even if you know what you’re doing. We have Olympians and All-Pros and All-Americans on the ballot in-waiting. Their only flaw? — their deep ties to a state where you can’t swing a cat without hitting some athletic superstar.

Star-studded, every year.

Perry Clark will be enshrined next week. His masterful job of guiding Tulane basketball in the 1990s might never be duplicated.

McNeese football’s Kerry Joseph was a pro who could play for anyone and most any skill position.

Frank Monica won state titles coaching at three different south Louisiana schools.

Daniel Cormier of Lafayette’s Northside High is a name as familiar to mixed martial arts fans as Babe Ruth’s is to baseball fans. An all-state football player and All-American wrestler, he transitioned to mixed martial arts, where the King of the Cage became a UFC Hall of Famer and is now a staple as a commentator on ESPN’s UFC events.

This year, the second-ever recipient of the Louisiana Sports Ambassador Award will be presented to Wilbur Ellis, and if there’s been a more humble or honorable inductee, most of us are scratching our heads to figure out who that could be. The retired Grambling baseball coach is being recognized with this non-annual award, first presented in 2020 to network broadcaster Tim Brando of Fair Park, for his “long-term exemplary contributions to the perception of Louisiana.” Coach Ellis represents the best we have.

Since its founding in 1958, the Hall will have enshrined 492 men and women by next Saturday. If you’ve been to any of these ceremonies, you’ve witnessed taped video introductions that defy even the most sports minded. You’ve shared in gracious acceptance speeches, most including laughs, many including tears. It’s the best night of the year for Louisiana sports because the Hall of Famers and Louisiana’s fans, the best in the business, make it so.

Contact Teddy at teddy@latech.edu

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This past week four employees at the Jackson Parish Hospital graduated from the Rural Health Administrative Support Program at Louisiana Tech University in Ruston. Earning undergraduate certificates from the Department of Health Informatics and Information Management Department was Ingrid Denise Leslie, Julia Renee Kelly, Savannah Michelle Carr and Candace Williams.

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Students from Jonesboro-Hodge Middle, Jonesboro-Hodge High, Quitman High and Weston High Schools participated in a STEM camp on May 22-24 held at Jonesboro-Hodge High School. STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) activities were facilitated by Miss Genesis Williams in conjunction with Jackson Parish Schools’ Title IV program and Louisiana Tech’s SCILS (STEM Collective for Innovative Stakeholders) program.

These middle and high school students enjoyed the opportunity to explore different STEM concepts using materials from the district’s STEM Materials Library. These activities included building solar cars, constructing roller coasters, programming robotics and exploring squishy circuits.

As a culminating activity, students used the knowledge gained to collaborate in team challenges on the final day. Participating students also received a t-shirt that they are also able to wear as a school shirt throughout the school year.

Special thanks goes to Dr. Chevonda Leonard, Ms. Elizabeth Sale, Mrs. Rose Broadway and Mrs. Lynesha Amos for helping support this program.

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I was taking the shortcut through Wal-Mart the other day. I was on my way to the doggie treat section. If you want a growing stock, I suggest the doggie treat industry because I am single-handedly causing a growth in the industry. Our dogs like certain treats and it seems Wal-Mart is always “out of them.” I have noticed that the doggie treats are growing more expensive with each trip to restock.

The short cut took me through the toy section. I have not been in the toy section in years. I found myself amid the place that children still drag their parents. At least I hope kids still drag their parents to the toy section. I know the video game section is also a big draw for the kids.

This nice boy and his mom were standing in the toy section. She had pulled a toy off the shelf that she was going to buy for the little boy. She handed the toy to the little boy, and he said to his mom, “I don’t want that one.”

The nice little boy was very polite and nice about it. I’m guessing that mom picked out the wrong superhero or something. I didn’t stay long enough to see if the toy selection came to a successful conclusion or not. I hope the little boy received the toy he wanted. He was certainly polite and nice in helping his mom pick the correct toy.
Here’s the thing though. He was receiving a gift, yet he wanted to decide which gift he wanted to receive.

I wonder how many times God has tried to send us His love and grace and we, by word or deed, have said to God, “I don’t want that one.”

 

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The biggest, most star-studded and fun-filled party of every summer for miles around is coming your way next weekend.

Three days of festivities are right around the corner, Thursday June 20 through Saturday June 22, with the 2024 Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Induction Celebration in Natchitoches.

The LSHOF’s Class of 2024 will be enshrined next Saturday night at the Natchitoches Events Center to culminate the 65th Induction Celebration.

The Induction Celebration will kick off Thursday, June 20, with the Welcome Reception from 5-7 p.m., free to the public at the Hall of Fame museum.

The Friday, June 21 schedule begins with the Celebrity Bowling Bash presented by BOM at Four Seasons Bowling Center in Alexandria. The 2024 Rockin’ River Fest, a free concert presented by Rapides Regional Medical Center on the downtown riverbank stage, begins at 6 p.m. and runs until 10:30. In conjunction with the Rockin’ River Fest is the VIP Taste of Tailgating party.

The slate on Saturday, June 22 kicks off with the free LSHOF Junior Training Camp led by community relations personnel from the New Orleans Saints and Pelicans, on the NSU campus at the Webb Wellness and Recreation Center and Turpin Stadium. This event has been filled to capacity since last month.

At noon Saturday, the Round Table Luncheon presented by the Tiger Athletic Foundation is set for Riverside Reserve on Mill Street.

Festivities culminate Saturday evening with the Induction Reception at the LSHOF museum beginning at 5, followed at 7 by the Induction Ceremony at the Natchitoches Events Center. Northwestern State University and State Farm Agents of Louisiana are presenting sponsors Saturday evening.

The VIP Taste of Tailgating, the Bowling Bash, the Round Table Luncheon and the Induction Reception and Ceremony are ticketed events requiring purchase in advance through LaSportsHall.com or by calling 318-238-4255. Those events are nearing sellouts.

The Thursday reception, the Friday evening River Fest and the Junior Training Camp are free.

The Class of 2024 is headlined by a star-studded group of eight inductees from the LSHOF “competitors ballot,” led by national sports celebrities Seimone Augustus, Drew Brees and Daniel Cormier.

Along with Brees, the New Orleans Saints’ NFL record-setting passer, is Augustus, a Baton Rouge native who is one of women’s basketball’s all-time best, and Cormier, the Lafayette born-and-raised Olympic wrestler who became and remains one of the most prominent figures in MMA.

This year’s class also includes 1992 Olympic wrestling gold medalist Kevin Jackson from LSU along with former basketball coach Tulane Perry Clark and McNeese football great Kerry Joseph, who had a 19-year pro career.

More inductees are high school football coach Frank Monica, who won state titles at three different south Louisiana schools, and Ray Sibille, a Breeders’ Cup-winning thoroughbred jockey from Sunset who ranks among the nation’s elite riders.

Grambling’s Wilbert Ellis becomes the second-ever recipient of the Louisiana Sports Ambassador Award. During his 43-year baseball coaching career and since, Ellis has made local, statewide and national impact not only in the competitive arena but also in community service and leadership.

Winners of the LSWA’s Distinguished Service Award in Sports Journalism are widely-respected south Louisiana sportswriters Bobby Ardoin and Ron Higgins. Longtime Southland Conference commissioner Tom Burnett, a Louisiana Tech graduate, will receive the Dave Dixon Louisiana Sports Leadership Award.

The 2024 Induction Celebration will be hosted by the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Foundation, the support organization for the Hall of Fame. The LSHOF Foundation was established as a 501 c 3 non-profit entity in 1975 and is governed by a statewide board of directors.

For information on sponsorship opportunities and other participation, contact Foundation President/CEO Ronnie Rantz at 225-802-6040 or RonnieRantz@LaSportsHall.com, or Greg Burke, Director of Business Development and Public Relations, at 318-663-5459 or GregBurke@LaSportsHall.com via email.

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Mary Patricia Mohin was born on September 29, 1909. Her father, Owen, was a coal merchant. Her mother was Mary Teresa Danher. In January 1919, Mary’s mother died during the birth of her fourth child, along with the baby. At the young age of 14, Mary became a nurse at Alder Hey Hospital. Four years later, she moved out of her family home because she was unable to get along with her stepmother. When she was 24, Mary became a nursing sister while working at Walton Hospital. In the United Kingdom, a nursing sister refers to a nurse of high rank. Nursing sisters are responsible for the overall running of each hospital ward or unit. Hospital staff may have called her a nursing sister, but her patients called her “the Angel.”

While working at Walton Hospital, Mary befriended another nurse name Jin. One night in 1940, Mary stopped by to visit Jin at her family’s home. There, Mary met Jim, Jin’s brother, for the first time. As they were visiting, the air raid sirens sounded. The German Luftwaffe were attacking. Mary was unable to leave and spent the evening huddled in the basement with Jim and other members of their family. Jim and Mary began dating.

On April 15, 1941, 38-year-old Jim and 31-year-old Mary married. They rented a small home in a poor section of town. On June 18, 1942, Jim and Mary had their first child at Walton Hospital. Mary was given special treatment while at the hospital because she had previously been in charge of the maternity section at that hospital. They named young Jimmy after his father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and great-great-grandfather.

On January 7, 1944, Jim and Mary welcomed their second child, Michael. Shortly thereafter, the family moved to bungalow in a slightly better part of town. Mary stopped working for a while to raise Jimmy and Michael, but money was tight. Mary returned to nursing and became a part-time health visitor and a midwife. Mary was on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. When Mary received a call, she would don her navy-blue uniform and hat and pedal away on the family’s bicycle. They couldn’t afford a car.

Jim made little money, but Mary did well. Jimmy remembered, “My mum was the upwardly mobile force. She was always moving us to a better address. Originally, we had to go out to the sticks of Liverpool because of her work as a midwife. Roads were unmade but the midwife’s house came free. So economically it was a good idea. She always wanted to move out of rough areas.” Jimmy remembered that his mom loved to whistle. “That’s one of my fond memories of my mum.,” he said. You don’t hear many women whistling. She was quite musical.”

Like most parents, Mary wanted the best for her sons. She wanted them to succeed in life. Early on, Jimmy spoke with a strong accent and used a lot of slang. Jimmy remembered that his mother, “told me off about it.” Mary encouraged Jimmy to speak proper Queen’s English. Mary envisioned Jimmy becoming a doctor.

In the summer of 1955, Mary began to experience pains in her chest. She took large doses of BiSodol, which was used to treat indigestion and heartburn. In the following year, Michael went into Mary’s bedroom and saw her crying. Michael asked his mother why she was crying. She pulled herself together, forced a smile, and said, “nothing, love.” Soon thereafter, Mary was diagnosed with breast cancer. She went into the hospital for a mastectomy, but they were unable to stop the cancer. After surgery, Jim, Jimmy, and Michael went into the room to be with their mother. Jimmy remembered that it was “a huge shock to us. Suddenly she was ill. We were very young.” Jim sent Jimmy and Michael to stay with their aunt and uncle. While in the hospital, Mary told her sister-in-law, “I would have liked to have seen the boys grow up.”

On Halloween morning, October 31, 1956, Jimmy and Michael had barely woken up when Aunt Joan told them, “Love, your mum’s dead.” Mary had died from an embolism, a blood clot, while recovering from surgery. 14-year-old Jimmy cried and prayed. He described them as “Daft prayers, you know. If you bring her back, I’ll be very, very good for always. I thought, it just shows how stupid religion is. See, the prayers didn’t work when I really needed them.” Shortly after Mary’s death, Jim bought his sons a guitar. He thought it could help them escape from the pain. Michael remembered that “It was just after mother’s death that it started. It became an obsession. It took over [Jimmy’s] whole life. You lose a mother – and you find a guitar.”

30 years after her death, Jimmy said, “I was fourteen. It’s a very difficult age, fourteen, because you are growing up and you’re getting your act together. So, it was a tough time to have something as devastating as that happen. I think I probably covered a lot of it up at the time, as you would, a fourteen-year-old boy.”

Jimmy learned to play the guitar pretty well. A decade and a half after his mother’s death, he wrote a little song about his mother. “When I find myself in times of trouble, Mother Mary comes to me, speaking words of wisdom, let it be.” The world knows Jimmy… James Paul McCartney.

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No athletic program in Jackson Parish and possibly north Louisiana has won as many national championships as the Quitman High School cheerleading squad. You don’t reach that level of success by chance. It takes hours upon hours of practice and training both individually and as a group.

This past week, the 27 young ladies who make up the two QHS cheer squads went to Northwestern State University in Natchitoches for a summer cheer camp to help prepare for the demands of the upcoming school year and future competition.  

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Far From Perfect

I wonder; how would a church pulpit committee respond to Paul’s resume? True, he was an apostle but he had a shady past.

“I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has strengthened me, because He considered me faithful, putting me into service, even though I was previously a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent aggressor. Yet I was shown mercy because I acted ignorantly in unbelief; and the grace of our Lord was more than abundant, with the faith and love which are found in Christ Jesus. It is a trustworthy statement, deserving full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, among whom I am foremost. Yet for this reason I found mercy, so that in me as the foremost sinner Jesus Christ might demonstrate His perfect patience as an example for those who would believe in Him for eternal life (1 Timothy 1:12-16 NASB).”

How did Paul overcome his guilt and shame? He knew he was far from perfect but refused to live in the past.

“Not that I have already grasped it all or have already become perfect, but I press on if I may also take hold of that for which I was even taken hold of by Christ Jesus. Brothers and sisters, I do not regard myself as having taken hold of it yet; but one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus (Philippians 1:12-14 NASB).”

At first glance; Paul was an unlikely candidate for special service.

Look again!

 

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