The Jackson Parish Hospital is thrilled to announce that Allegra Gray, CNA, has been selected as the ‘WOW’ Award recipient for the month of September! 

Nominated by her patients, Allegra is recognized for her exceptional care, friendly attitude, and unwavering dedication to going above and beyond for her patients and their families.

“Allegra embodies what it means to be a compassionate caregiver, always putting others first and ensuring that every need is met with a smile!”

That is only one of the many kind things patients and their loved ones have said about Allegra.

“We are so thankful for all that she does at Jackson Parish Hospital and for playing a key role in advancing our mission to provide the very best care to our communities.
Thank you, Allegra, for making such a positive impact every day. We are truly fortunate to have you as part of the team!” – Jackson Parish Hospital Administration

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The Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce that Green Clinic Health System and Rehabilitation for being selected as the Business of the Month for September.

The multi-specialty clinic provides both primary and specialty medical and therapeutic care to patients of all ages, from newborns to seniors. Located at 4707 Quitman Highway in Hodge, Louisiana, appointments can be made by calling at 318-395-1168.

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Jackson Parish Watershed Commission President Gary Joynor announces that several additions and improvements are expected to be employed beginning this coming week to enhance boating and fishing safety. 

First, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) will be deploying a second batch of buoys that total 16 in all starting next Monday & Tuesday. Second, the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (LADOTD) will be working September 11th to add new signage and reflective material to the pilings around the spill way. Finally, the process of installing lighting at the new fishing pier and picnic area at Ebenezer Park has started thanks to a very generous donation. Added to the list of wonderful news, Joynor states that in the last few months several business, government agency’s, community foundations, and individuals have reached out about investing into Caney Lake.

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The battle for “parish pride” takes place this Tuesday, September 10th when Quitman Junior High takes the short trek across Jackson Parish to play Weston for a girls and boys basketball contest. The girls game is set to tip off at 5:00 pm with the boys playing immediately after. 

Wolverines Win – AGAIN! 

Choudrant Tournament – Do it once and some may say you are lucky. Make it two in a row and eyebrows start to rise. Copy the result three, four and now FIVE straight times.

Hmmmm….. That team must be really good!

The Quitman Junior High basketball team won their fifth straight tournament in as many weeks this past Thursday and Friday by taking three games in the Choudrant Tournament. 

By dispatching fellow Jackson Parish participant, Weston in the opening round, beating Simsboro and then knocking off tourney host Choudrant in the finals, the Wolverines improved their impressive season record to 14-1 on the season. Weston will look to change the fortunes of the contests the first three times the two neighboring schools met and improve upon their 5-4 season record. 

On the girls side it is the Lady Wolves who hold the upper hand in head to head contests, having beaten Quitman the two previous times the teams met, including the 32-26 victory in both teams opener of the Choudrant tourney. 

 

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The Jackson Parish School District announces that nominations for Teacher and Principal of the Year are now being accepted and will be received until September 30th. To nominate either or both go to: https://docs.google.com/…/1FAIpQLScotNtS6cJU0Q…/viewform or click here.

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Pastor Dr. Gavin R. Hamms and the congregation of Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church invites you to join them on September 8-9 for two days of spirit filled worship as they celebrate their 89th anniversary and host a Revival service. 

The anniversary celebration service will be held at 1712 Church Street in East Hodge beginning at 10:00 am on Sunday, Sept. 8 with guest speaker, Pastor Warren Johnson of Galilee Baptist Church in Hodge, bringing an inspirational message. On Monday, Sept. 9, Reverend Ike Byrd III of Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Monroe will by the guest speaker for the one day Revival service. 

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Learning To Hunt Squirrels By Watching How Dad Did It

My message box last week contained a note advertising a Beginners Squirrel Hunt Seminar to be held in Minden September 21 at the office of Wildlife and Fisheries at 9961, Highway 80 in Minden. Those interested should call 337-735-8685 to pre-register as space will be limited.

The seminar outlined the subjects to be covered during the session. It includes such things as equipment needed, firearm selection, rules and regulations, proper squirrel hunting techniques and cleaning squirrels.

There were no seminars available to learn how to hunt squirrels when I was growing up in rural Natchitoches Parish. Our learning was at the feet of our dads, older brothers or maybe uncles who took youngsters like myself under their wings to teach them the ropes.

It was my dad who was my tutor in the squirrel woods and he started me and my brother out when we were just little mop-haired kids. When Tom and I learned that daddy was going squirrel hunting and invited us to go with him, it was like Christmas in October.

I remember the excitement of actually getting to go to the woods with dad and watch him as he did battle with wild squirrels. When we started going with him, he carried the only gun; we weren’t allowed to even take our BB guns. The weather in early October was usually cool and our jackets felt cozy and good as we followed him step by step as he gingerly eased through the woods.

“Watch out for that stick….you step on it and it cracks and it’ll scare every squirrel in the woods,” he’d whisper.

We would finally make our way to a fallen log that lay beneath a grove of oaks or hickories where squirrels were likely to be hanging out. I remember how much fun it was just to be sitting there on a log, my brother and me, next to our dad.

If Tom or I said anything, we’d get a “shush” from him. “Just stay quiet and keep your eyes on the trees and look for movement.”

A branch would jiggle and Tom and I would get excited. Dad would whisper for us to watch the jiggling branch and how it moved and he’d ask if we saw what was shaking the branch. Thinking I was looking at a squirrel, a blue jay fluttered away.

“A bird moves a branch differently than a squirrel does. If it’s a squirrel, it will likely be on the end of the branch getting an acorn or hickory nut and if you looked closely, you could see it move to a larger branch and begin eating. A bird just bounces around there and then flies away,” he whispered.

Momentarily, we would hear a sound for which our young ears were not trained. It sounded like something scratching. Dad would point to the source of the sound as a squirrel scurried up the trunk.

“Y’all sit still and watch,” he’d say as he eased up from the log, his shotgun at port arms and he’d ease along, using other trees and saplings as a shield until he stopped, raised the gun and fired. A fat fox squirrel would tumble to the ground to the delight of two little guys.

As we grew older, we were allowed to take our .22 rifles and under dad’s watchful eye, we tried to mimic what we had learned until finally with practice, both Tom and I learned to successfully hunt squirrels and we owe it all to a dad who took the time to teach us.

FISHING REPORT

CANEY LAKE – Bass are best early mornings around pads and moss on topwater lures and buzz baits. Later in the day, plastic worms and deep diving crank baits are working on deep drops off the channel. Night fishing is fair on dark spinners or plastic worms. Crappie are fair fishing shiners or jigs around the 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 – No report. Contact Honey Hole Tackle Shop 323-8707 for latest information.
BUSSEY BRAKE – Bass fishing is best fishing buzz baits around the pads as well as jigs, soft plastics around the wind rows. Some big crappie are being caught on the flats on shiners and jigs. For latest information, contact the Honey Hole at 323-8707.
OUACHITA RIVER – The river is falling because of a levee issue below Columbia. Water is muddy and fishing is slow. When D’Arbonne was lowered September 4, the water should rise quickly. For latest information, contact the Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707.
LAKE D’ARBONNE – The lake is being lowered some 5 feet as the gates were opened September 4. Crappie fishing has been good fishing jigs or shiners on the flats. Moving moving water should turn on the bass. Bream are off the beds and scattered. 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 – Crappie fishing has been best early mornings on shiners or jigs. Stripers are starting to school and should respond to shad imitation lures. Bass fishing is best at night fishing soft plastics and dark spinners and crank baits around lighted piers. Some have been caught early mornings on topwater lures fished along the edges of grass.. Bream are slow. For latest information, call Kel’s Cove at 927-2264 or Terzia Tackle at 278-4498.
LAKE POVERTY POINT – Catfishing has been good while others are slow. For latest reports, call Poverty Point Marina at 318/878-0101.
LAKE YUCATAN – The water has fallen to pool stage. Catfish are biting; others are slow. For info call Surplus City Landing at 318/467-2259.

 

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North Hodge Assembly of God will hold the 2024 Arise Conference on September 20-21 where Evangelist and Bible Teacher, Kathy Wampler, will provide two days of inspirational messages based on the theme “Consumed”. 

There is no cost to attend but those who plan to attend are asked to register by September 9th. To register, or for more information, call (318) 259-3609.

Event services are scheduled for Friday, Sept. 20 at 7:00pm and on Saturday, Sept. 21 at 10:00am. A continental breakfast will also be held at 9:00 am before the Saturday session. 

“Rise up…..and come away” – Song of Solomon 2:10  

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Jonesboro-Hodge Middle School looks to get into the win column for the first time this season when they travel to Arcadia on Tuesday, September 10th. Kick-off is set for 5:30 pm.

JHMS opened their season this past Tuesday by traveling to Rayville. While the outcome, a 42-8 victory by the home team, wasn’t what head coach Max Martinez and staff was hoping for, he is optimistic that his squad can have better fortunes this week. 

“Not much I can say about it, Rayville was just better than us on that day,” said Martinez. “I have faith in our guys though as they have worked hard and I believe the outcome will be more in our favor this week.”

King Campbell scored the Tigers only touchdown with Levi Martin running in the two point conversion. 

JHMS also was supposed to travel to Lincoln-Prep this past Thursday but the game cancelled due to inclement weather. 

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Always the most anticipated meeting of each month for the Heritage Quilt Guild of Jonesboro took place this past Wednesday, as the beautiful hand stitched designs of the members were presented during the “Show and Tell” portion of the session.

Gathering in the Community Room of the Jonesboro-Hodge Methodist Church, the ladies who share the love of quilting, sewing and embroidery also worked on stringing backpacks for Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA).

The Heritage Quilt Guild invites all who share in their passion to join them the first Wednesday of every month at 9:30 am at the Jonesboro-Hodge Methodist Church, located at 402 4th Street in Jonesboro.

Show and Tell

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A Safe Place

My grandson said, “This is supposed to be the happiest place on earth.”

He was at Disney World. Last week the family took a trip to Disney World in Orlando. Nana had her two children and her two grandchildren in the Magic Kingdom. The trip was perfected by granddad staying home in north Louisiana.

I told the truth, “I don’t do Disney.”

On Thursday night the whole tribe had an unscheduled, unplanned adventure. In the park two unrelated events happened. The first was a fight. The second was a balloon popping. The second event stirred alarms, and the park went into active shooter mode. People went diving into shops. They hid in storage rooms. They ducked under clothes racks. A few people got to experience the secret walkway behind all the shops. My six all managed to dive for safety together. The situation lasted for only twenty minutes or so. I can’t imagine the feelings.

It was at that point that our oldest grandson issued his commentary on the event. The happiest place on earth was on active shooter lockdown. He was stuffed into a closet with a bunch of strangers. I don’t believe the story was picked up outside of the Orlando news media. Everyone was safe.

This falls under the general heading of “stuff happens.”

When it does, what is your plan of action?

It is interesting that the Bible assumes that “stuff happens.” All sorts of stuff happened to the righteous man Job. His friends asked why. The New Testament writers told the early church, don’t be surprised when hard times come. They happen to test and purify our faith.

John’s gospel records Jesus saying, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” In John’s gospel the story of Jesus in the boat with the disciples on the stormy night was told differently. In John’s version of the story, Jesus does not calm the storm. John informs his readers, “The boat landed on the other shore.” It illustrates how Jesus overcomes trouble.

John’s point is perfect when life at the happiest place on earth goes on lockdown. Jesus may not calm all storms, but your faith in Him will get you to your destination.

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The Pinnacle National Championship (PNC) is the culmination of the hard work of youth football teams from across the USA, displayed on the biggest stage in the history of Youth Football.

And the Jackson Parish 10U Tigers are going to be a part of it. 

Under the tutelage of head coach Van Osborne and assistant coach Khaalid Hakeem, fourteen local youth gridders will travel to Corpus Christi, TX on December 13-16 to compete in the PNC. 

Donations are being accepted to help with travel expenses for the team. If interested in being a supporter or a sponsor contact Coach Osborne at (318) 243-8711.  

JP10U Tigers Roster

Caiden Jackson
Brandon Hicks
Addarren Amos
Austin Watkins
Courtney Adams
Elijah Robinson
Ryder Jefferson
Cruz Nomey
Case Creel
Ayden Chatham
Messiah Beard
Tytus Campbell
Tripp Terry
Brayden Wilson

JP10U Remaining Schedule 

The youthful Tigers have six games remaining on their 2024 schedule, five on the road and a final game in Jonesboro throughout September and October. All games are played on Saturday’s.

September 14: JP10U at O.W.E. Football (Grambling)
September 28: JP10U at NL Soldiers (Minden)
October 5: JP10U at North Caddo Jr. Titans (Vivian)
October 12: JP10U at Louisiana Storm Academy (Evangel in Shreveport)
Ocotber 19 JP10U vs TBA (Jonesboro)

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Every year there are certain seasons that people look forward to: week one of the NFL, opening day of baseball season and for me it’s the arrival of both the spring and fall seasons. But for most outdoorsmen, it’s hunting season! This is like Christmas morning for anyone who enjoys chasing a squirrel, dropping ducks from the sky or finally shooting that trophy buck of a lifetime.

Today let’s look at what hunting season means to so many outdoorsmen. Let’s start with dove season which is basically a tailgate party with guys carrying shotguns. Dove season, like football season, kicks off the new year for all hunters. They gather in small groups and enjoy some time in the field hopefully where there are plenty of birds passing through. Dove hunts are simply a social hunt and a great way to introduce kids to hunting.

Next comes teal season (mid-September) which brings out a totally different kind of hunter. These guys are serious about shooting what just might be the hardest duck to hit on the fly. Teal are the F-16’s of the duck hunting world and can do a fly-by quicker than some hunters can get a gun up. Teal are also a great tasting bird and make great table fare.

But the first of October is the official start of deer season as bow hunters take to the woods in search of some good venison backstrap. Bow hunters are very committed and put in a lot of time practicing in their back yards or on a bow range. Deer hunting in general, is probably more popular than any other wild game that’s pursued.

Bow hunting requires a lot of skill in order to be effective and take a deer with good arrow placement. The popularity of bow hunting is due to the fact it’s a throwback to how our ancestors used to hunt. Bow hunters might be the most dedicated group of hunters there are due to the amount of effort and skill required.

Now let’s fast forward to mid-October. Opening day of rifle season triggers a landslide of deer hunters taking to the great outdoors in search of that monster buck they’ve been watching on their trail cameras for the past two months. No other wild game opening day is more popular than the opening day of gun season as deer camps are overflowing with both excitement and the anticipation. It’s like a child waiting on Christmas morning; they literally cannot sleep!

Today, there are so many traditions that revolve around different types of hunting seasons. Deer camps have been a part of family traditions for decades and most would give up their home before giving up their deer camp.

Many outdoorsmen plan their entire year around their favorite hunting season. It determines when they will take their vacation or request extra time off from their daily jobs. They are literally consumed with everything that revolves around hunting.

They plan Thanksgiving and other holidays around hunting season. It’s like people planning their lives around their favorite football team; nothing else is more important! If you’re one of the fortunate that have a great hunting camp; count your blessings and never let it go. Because once it’s gone, you will have a hard time replacing it.

Till next time, good luck, good hunting and to all outdoorsmen, have a great hunting season!

Steve Graf
Angler’s Perspective

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The Robert Riddle Senior Center in Jonesboro and Chatham Meal Site (CMS) hosted various activities during the month of August. At both locations patrons enjoyed Hawaiian Day where Smurfit-Westrock sponsored a fish fry at CMS and Trio Foods prepared delicious food for the Jonesboro event.

Additional activities and events at the Robert Riddle Senior Center was the celebration of Watermelon Day, the Jackson Parish Hospital making a visit and Regina Rogers (shown on right) lending her beautiful voice for everyone’s entertainment. 

The Robert Riddle Senior Center and Chatham Meal Site are part of the Jackson Parish Council on Aging program to assist senior citizens of Jackson Parish through daily meals and programs. 

Happy Birthday

Below are patrons of Chatham Meal Site and Robert Riddle Senior Center who celebrated birthdays in August. 

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The Boys of Basketball

Family and friends will wonder why I’d choose basketball as a topic. I’ve never been interested in sports and hated gym. (I confess; I likely skipped class at least once). The girls’ gym uniforms were far from fashionable… Need I mention the embarrassment of group showers? I’m straying from the topic; back to basketball.

School has resumed here in the south; that means it’s time for high school football. So why is basketball on my mind? Go figure. When attending Chittenango (New York) High School, I went to more basketball games than football. It was warmer inside. The boys played a good game and some had been classmates since Junior High. They were short in stature but swift on their feet.

Zacchaeus’ size didn’t hinder him.

“He entered Jericho and was passing through. And behold, there was a man named Zacchaeus. He was a chief tax collector and was rich. And he was seeking to see who Jesus was, but on account of the crowd he could not, because he was small in stature. So he ran on ahead and climbed up into a sycamore tree to see him, for he was about to pass that way. And when Jesus came to the place, he looked up and said to him, ‘Zacchaeus, hurry and come down, for I must stay at your house today.’ So he hurried and came down and received him joyfully (Luke 19:1-5 ESV).”

God doesn’t measure us by our height or frame.

“But the Lord said to Samuel, ‘Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart (1 Samuel 16:7 ESV).”

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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  or call 318-480-1206. Possible costs are dependent on content.

JOB OPPORTUNITY

Ultra Molds, LLC, located in Jackson Parish at 147 Bridge Creek Rd., Ruston, LA 71270, is currently seeking to fill the position of General and Operations Manager.

MQ: BA in Business Management, 8 months previous experience in Business Management.

Job duties/description: Daily meetings with staff, maintenance of company machines, including organizing the flow of company cutting queues, managing tooling & equipment, managing control of products produced & spot checking orders for consistency of quality, upholding of inventory/stock control, cash flow forecasting & client orders, collaborating with the Chief Executive Officer on new projects,
development & management of marketing & social media. No remote work, must report to plant daily.

Yearly Salary: $44,100.00

Apply at Louisiana Workforce Commission online (Job Order #1618344) or e-mail resume to support@ultramolds.com

Job Opportunity 

PUBLIC NOTICE

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 Monday, September 23, 2024. To request a detailed job description, please contact our office at (318) 259-2361 or by email: nevans@jppj.org.

POSITION: Operator I
DEPARTMENT: Jackson Parish Solid Waste Department

Description:
Under close supervision, the Solid Waste Department Operator I is a semi-skilled to skilled position consisting of equipment operation, manual labor, and maintenance repair of various pieces of light and heavy motorized equipment and trucks used in solid waste management, maintenance, inclement weather, and other generalized work. Incumbent may be used as a relief operator on equipment of a higher class if qualified and trained.

Minimum Qualifications:
• In good standing as an employee in current position
• Class B CDL Driver’s License required; progression towards Class A CDL a must

Basic Responsibilities:
• Primarily operates trackhoe/packer located at the Solid Waste Landfill.
• Directs compact trucks and the public to the proper dumping areas in the landfill.
• Packs and tarps the garbage in the trailers and prepares the trailers to be transported to the Union Parish Landfill.
• Keeps the wall area washed and clean.
• Cleans out drains and bins, when necessary.
• Monitors the water transport and hauls and empties, when necessary.
• Picks up general litter and debris around the landfill, keeping it clean and organized.
• Cross-trained on all Operator II positions; prepared and able to operate any and all equipment used at the landfill.
• Serves as a backup for the Specialty Equipment Operator (Compact Truck), if qualified, trained, and licensed and Operator I and II positions, if necessary (at the appropriate set-up rate).
• Physically present to perform the duties of the position.
• Performs walkaround safety checks at the beginning of every day noting any deficiencies found on equipment and report to Supervisor.
• Complete daily paperwork noting equipment and materials used each day and daily equipment forms.
• Must have good working knowledge of equipment and safety habits.
• Performs manual work functions associated with construction, maintenance, and cleanup of the solid waste landfill and off-site bin sites in accordance with all safety regulations and procedures.

Detailed Job Description available upon request.

FOR SALE

Three lots on Old Saline Lake, located at 171 Public Ramp Road, that apprises of approximately 3/4 of an acre with lakeview. Public boat ramp access only about 1/2 mile away. Selling as one property. Amenities include new electric pole and meter, as well as, water/electric hook ups for camper or RV. Also included is a Spartan Imperial Mansion Trailer House. Asking $25,000.00. Serious inquirers should call (318) 475-0349.

PUBLIC NOTICE

SHERIFF’S SALE

PARISH OF JACKSON
STATE OF LOUISIANA

VANDERBILT MORTGAGE & FINANCE, INC.
# 37550
PATRICIA FAY ADMIRE AND NATHAN ALLEN RICHARDSON

By virtue of a Writ of Seizure and Sale issued out of the Honorable Second Judicial District Court, Parish of Jackson, State of Louisiana, and to me directed, I have seized and taken into my possession and will offer for sale for cash at the principal front door of the Courthouse, Jonesboro, Louisiana, on Wednesday, the 18th day of SEPTEMBER, 2024. Between the hours governing judicial sales, the following property to wit:

ONE (1) CERTAIN 2019 SOUTHERN ENERGY MANUFACTURED HOME, MODEL 41SSP16723AH19, BEARING SERIAL NUMBER RUS076139AL

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

ANDY BROWN, SHERIFF
EX-OFFICIO, AUCTIONEER

It is hard to get something by Wilda Smith.

Serving as Director of the Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce (JPCC) for the past 19 years, the dedicated community activist and public servant, usually is “in the know” if a special event or activity is planned. 

This past Saturday, August 31st, a special event took place though that took her totally by surprise. That was because it was supposed to as members of the Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce went to great lengths to make sure of it.

Smith arrived at Town Hall in Jonesboro on Saturday thinking she was going to what she had been told was going to be a surprise birthday party for JPCC President Karen Tolar.

“When I got there, the parking lot was already full and I remember thinking that Karen would really be happy with the large turnout,” laughed Smith. “What a surprise it was when I found out why everyone was really there for.”

The reason wasn’t a birthday party. Instead the overflow crowd had gathered to show appreciation to Smith through a ceremony orchestrated by community leaders and members of the JPCC in her honor. 

Highlighting the gala event was the reading of a Proclamation issued by Jonesboro Mayor J. “Spike” Harris declaring that Saturday, August 31, 2024 had been declared as WILDA SMITH DAY. 

To say Smith was overwhelmed and greatly appreciative of the gesture and honor bestowed upon her is an understatement. While declaring that mere words can’t express how much this means to her she did her best to express her gratitude in the following statement that was posted on the Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce Facebook page.

I am truly overwhelmed by the wonderful surprise and the incredible event you organized. Karen & others your leadership and vision have been the driving force behind making this event so special, and I cannot thank you enough for everything you’ve done.

My sincere thanks also go to each of the board members for your tireless help and support. The success of the Chamber is not a reflection of one person, but a testament to the collective effort and dedication of all of you. I am deeply grateful to all the friends who attended and those who have continually supported the Chamber.

The Chamber is what it is today not because of me, but because of the passion, commitment, and hard work each of you has contributed. Together, we have made it a beacon for the entire Parish, reflecting the unity and strength of our community.

Thank you all from the bottom of my heart. – Wilda Smith

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One of the oldest and most storied rivalries in LHSAA prep football history continues this Friday evening as Jonesboro-Hodge High School plays host to Winnfield Senior High at Caldwell Peacock Stadium. Game time is set for 7:00 pm.

The 2024 season opening contest for both schools marks the 98th time that the two Tigers will play in the series that began in 1917 with Winnfield holding a 52-43-2 all time advantage. The record represents the most wins and losses against any opponent by both teams. 

Additional historical facts regarding the rivalry show that since 1945 the two schools have played each other every year, except in 2019 when the outbreak of the COVID epidemic forced the scheduled game to be cancelled. In games played at Caldwell Peacock Stadium, Jonesboro-Hodge holds a 26-22-1 advantage and this contest will be the 29th time the two have opened the season against each other with Winnfield winning 19 times.

In respect to the series impact statewide, the 1977 contest which J-H won 7-0, was the first regular season overtime contest ever played in the LHSAA. Also, while the two schools have 96 post season appearances between them, surprisingly the two schools have never met in the playoffs.

The series is noted not only for it’s longevity but many “sidebars” as well, including several contests that decided district titles, more than one fight (on and off the field), a “skunking” of a team bus, upsets and comebacks. Never before the past couple of seasons though has the “tilt of two Tigers” taken on the current state of affairs that could be considered a “battle between brothers.” 

What that is referring to is the two men who will be leading their troops on each sideline in Jonesboro-Hodge head coach, Terrance Blankenship, and Winnfield head man, Jay Watson.

It is hard to find two men, who while not officially related, are closer to each other. The pair have been best of friends since being classmates in elementary school. So close in fact that as their birthdays are only days apart, the pair used to celebrate their special day together. 

As they grew older they both developed a love for football and in both junior high and high school they played side-by-side on the line for Jonesboro-Hodge, both playing vital roles in the “three-peat” state championship years.

“I love Jay like a brother and feel fortunate to have had him as a great friend all these years,” reflected Blankenship. “I will always pull for him to win every game each year – other than this one!”

GAME FACTS

(1) Blackout in effect – As the contest has been declared a “Blackout” by JHHS, fans are encouraged to show your support for the Tigers by wearing black outfits to the contest. 

(2) Clear Bag Policy – When coming to the game, make sure that if you are bringing items into the stadium they are enclosed in a clear bag as the JHHS administration will be enforcing a Clear Bag Policy.

(3) Ticket sales – Game tickets can be purchased in advance at the GoFan app. Tickets can also be purchased at the gate with a debit card, credit card, or any Tap pay option.

(4) Radio Broadcast – Hopefully Tiger fans will come out in force but for those unable to attend the game will be broadcast on radio at 102.3 FM (The Roux) beginning with pregame analysis at 6:30 pm. Also for the first time ever, those who live outside of the radio transmit area can livestream the game by downloading the Roux102 App.

 

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The Boil Advisory that the New Hope  / St. Clair water customers of the Chatham Water System has been under has now been lifted by the Louisiana Department of Health as of Tuesday, September 3rd.

The precautionary advisory had been put in place because of a break in the main line and electrical problems at the New Hope booster station causing a failure of the booster pump. Testing revealed no irregularities found. 

“I am pleased to announce that the Boil Advisory has now been lifted and that the water has been deemed safe for consumption,” said Chatham Mayor Greg Harris. “I want to thank our residents for their patience and understanding while we rectified this situation.” 

 

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NOTE: On October 5th, the Jackson Parish Sports Hall of Fame will enshrine six new members as the Class of 2024. Also being recognized will be the selection for the Meritorious Service Award and the male and female athlete of the year from the three Jackson Parish high schools. Over the next several weeks the Jackson Parish Journal will have a special feature on each. Today’s Edition – Ladell Farley

Some athletes are blessed to have their athletic career begin with having the proverbial “silver spoon”, meaning that they had advantages that others didn’t. It may be that they had a talent that set them apart from others or being a part of a team that had a proven track record year after year that brought attention to them. 

Ladell Farley had neither. 

When the former JHHS two-sport athlete began his varsity football career in 1959, Farley seldom saw the field and the Tigers won only two of the eleven games they played. His junior season was even worse as JHHS stumbled to a 1-9-1 record but through hard work and dedication, Farley began to earn playing time, enough to earn his first letter. He also was a member of the track team competing in the shot put and discus. 

He continued to work diligently on his skills, something his coaches noticed which led him to being selected as a Captain on the 1961 football team. Not only did the coaches take note of Farley’s work ethic but so did many of the players. 

His leadership by example set the tone for the season.

That year Jonesboro-Hodge ended the year with a 5-5-1 record, only the second time in the previous eight years that JHHS finished with a non-losing record. Included was big wins against state ranked Pineville and an enthralling 19-6 victory over arch rival Ruston that gave the Tigers a second place finish in District 2AA. 

As the playoffs consisted of only district champions in those day, the Tigers became the host team in the first annual Paper Bowl that was played in Jonesboro. An estimated 2500 fans packed Caldwell-Peacock Stadium to see JHHS play to a 7-7 tie with Mansfield. 

Farley would go on to win first team All-District honors from his end position and earn Honorable Mention named to the Class AA All-State team. This was highly unusual for a player to earn such designation and not be a member of a playoff team. but through Farley’s continual effort to perfect his skills as a blocking end which helped Robert Marrus lead the district in scoring was noticed. His noted practice regime of continuous practice to perfect his blocking skills also led him to having the designation of not having a single penalty called on him during the season, unheard of among linemen. This also led Farley to be selected to play in the prestigious LHSAA All-Star game, again a rare opportunity for a player that didn’t compete in the postseason. Not only did Farley play for the West team but as a starter on the line, threw the key block that paved the way for the back to score the go ahead touchdown in the upset of the highly favored East team. 

That spring, he took that desire for perfection to the track. Competing in the strength related but also technique driven events of shot put and discus, he earned All District honors and competed in the state track meet in the discus. 

Farley continued to exhibit his perseverance and drive at Henderson State University where he continued to improve and excel becoming a four year starter, co-captain and All-Conference player leading his team to the 1963 Arkansas Intercollegiate Championship. 

Quite an accomplishment for someone who wasn’t blessed with what some call “natural born” talent but a well deserved acknowledgement for his desire to be the best he could be.

Perhaps the greatest legacy that he left was his example that regardless of whether a team is successful or not it is the effort of the individual that can change fortunes and and a culture.

It was not by coincidence that JHHS had a winning record for six straight years after Farley graduated. It was through watching how Farley prepared himself that the junior high and young varsity players learned what it took to be successful. Included was such JHHS greats and Jackson Parish Hall of Famers Jim Gregory, Jimmy “Bond” Golden, Johnny Garlington, Alden Reeves, and Jim Jones, all who gave Farley credit for showing them the correct way to prepare and practice that led them to their own outstanding glory and fame. 

There are no statistics to measure leadership ability or desire and perseverance. Often times those qualities and traits go unnoticed or at least don’t get the recognition deserved. Then there are people like Farley, whose demonstration and example of these “immeasurables”, was so evident and unique that it earned him a place among the immortals of Jackson Parish and being selected as a member of the Jackson Parish Hall of Fame Class of 2024. 

Jackson Parish Hall of Fame Class of 2024
Ladell Farley

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TROOP F NEWS RELEASE

Jackson Parish – On Sunday, September 1, 2024, shortly before 12:00 p.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop F began investigating a single-vehicle fatal crash on LA Hwy 146 east of LA Hwy 145. The crash claimed the life of 54-year-old Sherman Dotson of Ruston.

The preliminary investigation revealed that Dotson was driving east on LA Hwy 146 in a 2007 Honda Pilot. For reasons still under investigation, the Honda ran off the right side of the road and struck a tree.

Dotson, who was unrestrained, was ejected and suffered severe injuries. He was transported to an area hospital where he later succumbed to his injuries and died. Although impairment is not suspected, routine toxicology samples were collected and will be submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.

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In a break from the traditional meeting date of the Jackson Parish School Board in the past, the regular monthly session will be held on Thursday, September 5th. The meeting will take place at 11:00 am in the Conference Room of the Jackson Parish School District Central Office located at 315 Pershing Hwy. 

A short agenda of approving last months minutes and adopting recommendation from the various committee’s await board members Gerry Mims, Rick Barlow, Wade McBride, Paulette Belton, Calvin Waggoner (President), Dennis Clary and Mary Saulters. 

September 5th School Board Meeting Agenda

1. Invocation – Gerry Mims
2. Pledge of Allegiance – Paulette Belton
3. Call to Order
4. Consider approving the minutes as presented from the Regular Scheduled meeting held on August 5, 2024.
5. Consider adopting items per the Committee Reports attached hereto.
6. Superintendent’s Comments
7. Adjourn

 

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The girls and boys basketball teams from Quitman and Weston Junior High will be in tournament action once again this Thursday and Friday as they make the short drive to participate in the Choudrant Tournament. 

One thing is for certain.  The pair of Jackson Parish schools won’t be playing against each other in either of the championship games. That was guaranteed when tournament officials decided to pit the Quitman and Weston girls and boys against each other in what amounts to a play in game on both sides of the bracket.

As result, the Quitman and Weston girls get the tournament started at 4:00 pm on Thursday with the local boys game following. The victor will then play a second round contest against Simsboro on Friday with the girls playing at 4:00 pm and the boys slated to tip off at 4:40 pm. The finals are scheduled for 5:40 and 6:30 pm on Friday.

Also being played in the Old Gym are 6th grade girl and boys games with Quitman scheduled to play Choudrant at 5:40 pm on Thursday. for a boys game followed by the girls teams from both schools playing at 6:30 pm. The two QJH 6th grade teams will play again on Friday against Downsville with the boys tipping off 4:00 pm followed by the girls game. 

Ticket Info: Choudrant High School uses GoFan App for ticket purchases. No cash will be accepted at the door. To purchase your tickets go to: https://gofan.co/app/school/LA19854

Choudrant Tournament Brackets

Quitman Tourney Recap 

The Quitman Junior High boys team stretched their season opening winning streak to 11 straight games and won their third consecutive tournament by winning three games. The QJH girls turned in their best tourney performance of the season by finished in second place after opening with two wins. Both Weston Junior High teams fell in the first round. 

Girls

First Round: 

Quitman 35 Dodson 1: The Lady Wolverines tied a national record that can never be broken by holding Dodson scoreless over the first three quarters. Offensively QJH saw eight players register points led by Audrina Martin’s season best 10 points. Sophia Kleibert added eight points, Kynleigh Leach finished with five and London Burks scored four points. Lily Duck, Averi Hasley, Ella Simonelli and Amelia Staggs all tallied two points each. 

Castor 19 Weston 15: The Lady Wolves made a spirited rally to outscore the eventual tournament champion 12-7 in the second half but dropping the second quarter by a 10-0 margin proved to be to much of a hill to climb. Rachel Bandy led Weston with 8 points followed by 3 points from Kate Keiffer and two points each by Addison Faulkner and Ada-Claire Tidwell. 

Second Round:

Quitman 25 Calvin 13: A balanced attack led the Lady Wolverines into the finals with the victory over Calvin. Ella Simonelli paced seven QJH scorers with five points followed closely by London Burks, Bella Caskey, Kynleigh Leach and Audrina Martin all finishing with four points each. Averi Hasley and Demi McCurdy tallied two. 

Finals: 

Castor 27 Quitman 20: Sophia Kleibert scored 11 points but Castor narrowly won the first three quarters to win the championship. Ella Simonelli scored five and London Burks, Lily Duck and Bella Caskey all chipped in with two points each. 

Boys

First Round 

Quitman 36 Calvin 13: Luke Rowe poured in a season best 10 points and Kaleb Maxwell and Hayden Seymore added 9 and 8 points respectively to pace the Wolverines to the easy win. Eli Jackson scored 3 and Jayden Burns, Conner May and Hayden Essmeier all scored two each. 

Castor 36 Weston 34 (OT): Leyton Younse scored 8 points of his team high 10 points in the second quarter to pace Weston to a 21-20 halftime lead. Five points by Bryce Tolar in the third upped the lead to 28-25 heading into the final frame but Castor rallied to tie the game at 34 each and then made the only two points scored in overtime. Eli Henderson and Malachi Harris chipped in with 8 points each and Colt Guyotte added three points to round out the scoring for the Wolves. 

Second Round: 

Quitman 34 Claiborne Christian 9: A staunch defensive effort that allowed only one first half point allowed QJH to take a commanding 19 point lead at the half. Hayden Seymore hit a season best three 3-pointers to lead the team in scoring with 13 points with both Eli Jackson and Kaleb Maxwell adding six points each. 

Finals: 

Quitman 34 Choudrant 22: Hayden Seymore scored 13 and Lucas Leach finished with a season best 10 points to lead the Wolverines to the tourney title. Eli Jackson and Luke Rowe chipped in with four points each and Noah Spillman scored two. 

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