JPSHOF Class of 2024! (l-r) Shane Holder, Ladell Farley, Ricky Johnson, Rickey McBride, Pamela Johnson McConnell, Jared Stevenson
On Saturday, October 5th, the Jackson Parish Sports Hall of Fame held their 15th annual induction banquet at the Family Life Center of the First Baptist Church in Jonesboro.
The gala event that began at 5:00 pm with a social hour followed by dinner and the presentation program featuring speeches by the inductees Shane Holder, Ladell Farley, Ricky Johnson, Rickey McBride, Pamela Johnson McConnell and Jared Stevenson.
Also being recognized by the JPSHOF board was Meritorious Service Award winner Wilda Smith (shown on right) and the 2023-24 male and female athlete of the year from the three local high schools.
High School Athlete of the Year
Jonesboro-Hodge High School: Ciara Gray, DeMarious Burns Quitman High School: Cali Deal, Logan Ponder Weston High School: Lexie Millien, Tait Henderson
On Tuesday, September 17th, the Jackson Parish Police Jury held a Special Called Meeting at the Charles H. Garrett Community Center in Jonesboro. Attending the special session was Amy Magee, Sheketia Combs, Tarneshala “Niki” Cowans, Regina Rowe and Secretary/Treasurer Nia Evans. Absent was Todd Culpepper, Lewis Chatham and Keith Burris.
Once the meeting was called to order by Vice President Magee and the invocation and Pledge of Allegiance took place, a motion was made and agreed to for an additional agenda item to be added to the two that were already stated.
A call for Public Comments was then made to which there was no response leading to the four panel members voting by a 4 Yea to 0 Nay roll call count to uphold and affirm the 2024 tax assessment as presented.
This was followed by a second roll call vote of 4-0 to adopt the 2024 Tax Millage Resolution which called for a total millage of 27.57 mills to be approved as stated below.
Resolution
Be it resolved, that the following millage(s) are hereby levied on the 202 tax roll on all property subject to taxation by the Jackson Parish Police Jury:
General Alimony 5.90 mills Roads & Bridges 5.60 mills Roads, Asphalt, Paving 4.87 mills Recreation District 5.07 mills Health Unit 0.88 mills Library & Bookmobile 5.25 mills
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the proper administrative officials of the Parish of Jackson, State of Louisiana, be and they are hereby empowered, authorized, and directed to spread said taxes, as hereinabove set forth, upon the assessment roll of said Parish for the year 2024, and to make collection of the taxes imposed for and on behalf of the taxing authority, according to law, and that the taxes herein levied shall become a permanent lien and privilege on all property subject to taxation as herein set forth, and collection of thereof shall be enforceable in the manner provided by law.
The foregoing resolution was read in full, the roll was called on the adoption thereof, and the resolution was adopted by the following votes: District 1 – Absent, District 2 – Absent, District 3 – Yea, District 4 – Yea, District 5 – Yea, District 6 – Yea, District 7 – Absent
YEAS: 4 NAYS: 0 ABSTAINED: ABSENT: 3
CERTIFICATE
I hereby certify that the foregoing is a true and exact copy of the resolution adopted at the board meeting held on September, 17, 2024, at which meeting a quorum was present and voting.
Jonesboro, Louisiana, this 18th day of September 2024
Nia Evans
In final action the added agenda item of approving FMLA for Ms. Katherine Lester was agreed upon.
Jonesboro-Hodge went into Arcadia on Friday night seeking their first win after a tough four weeks to start the season. The Tigers got just that after a gutsy, hard-fought 48 minutes that led to a 16-14 victory.
The game got off to a slow and sloppy start. There were four drives between the two teams in the 1st quarter, and they consisted of an interception and turnover on downs by each team.
Z’Mauryian Palmer came down with the pick for his first of the season for the Tigers. As the Hornets and Tigers continued to exchange short drives in the middle of the field that never went anywhere, that’s when the J-Hodge defensive front got another big stop that set up the offense on the Arcadia 31-yard line. After a couple hard runs by Landon Boston, who had his best rushing game on the season, the Tigers looked to trick the Hornet defense. With Dakota Knox in an empty backfield, Boston came in motion and the Hornet defense swarmed to the right side when the ball was snapped and presumably was handed off to him.
Next thing you know, Knox was running up the middle of the field untouched for a 19-yard touchdown. DJ Palmer brought in a pass from Knox for the two-point conversion, and J-Hodge held an 8-0 lead midway through the 2nd quarter.
Arcadia’s next drive didn’t bring much success either, and after a quick three-and-out they lined up for the first punt of the game. With the help of a low snap, the Tigers rushed towards the punter and tackled him at the Hornet 21-yard line. Two plays later, Knox dropped back and lofted a deep pass to Christian McGuire who hauled it in for a touchdown. Knox sneaked it in for the two-point conversion to give the Tigers a 16-0 advantage near the end of the 1st half. Malik Nichols intercepted a tipped Arcadia screen pass with 25 seconds left in the half, and that sent the two teams into the locker room with Jonesboro-Hodge having all the momentum and a 16-0 lead.
The 2nd half opened with a very forgettable three minutes if you are a Tiger fan. Arcadia came out with a new energy, and it showed as they went 62 yards on just three plays not once, but twice, to get within 2 points at 16-14 after the two point run attempt was short.
The remaining 21 minutes of the game had many moments that just made you want to cover up your eyes while you cheered on your team, as a big play in either direction would’ve swung the outcome completely. After giving up 124 yards in opening three minutes, the J-Hodge defense held Arcadia to only 50 yards the rest of the 2nd half.
Landon Boston made the play of the game up to this point with just over two minutes left in the game, as he chased down a Hornet screen pass on fourth down and made an excellent one-on- one open-field tackle to give the Tigers the ball.
After a great pass from Knox to DJ Palmer to give the Tigers a first down with less than two minutes remaining, Arcadia felt desperate and started to use their three timeouts. J-Hodge needed just one more first down to ice this game and ensure a happy bus ride back home.
Facing a 4th and 8 on the Arcadia 43-yard line, it seemed to be an easy decision to throw the ball on the ensuing play. but as the Tigers did earlier in the game, they caught the Hornet defense off-guard with an unexpected play call.
Knox got under center with Marquise Baker at the fullback position behind him, and the Tigers ran a QB sneak that not only got a first down, but nearly got a touchdown as Knox scampered 41 yards before being drug down at the Arcadia 2-yard line.
Jonesboro-Hodge then went into “victory formation” for the first time in the 2024 season and escaped the Hornet’s Nest with a 16-14 win.
The Tigers are back on the road next Friday, this time heading to Claiborne Parish to face the Haynesville Tornadoes, who sits atop the district 1-1A standings with a 5-0, 2-0 mark. Kickoff will be at 7:30 on Friday night.
TEAM
1
2
3
4
TOTAL
JHHS (1-4, 1-1)
0
16
0
0
16
Arcadia (2-3, 1-1)
0
0
14
0
14
JHHS PLAYER STATS:
Passing: Dakota Knox – 11/18, 132 Yards, TD, INT Rushing: Dakota Knox – 23 Rushes, 70 Yards, TD, Fumble Landon Boston – 11 Rushes, 35 Yards Cameron Jackson – 1 Rush, 1 Yard Receiving: Christian McGuire – 5 Receptions, 74 Yards, TD DJ Palmer – 3 Receptions, 46 Yards Z’Mauryian Palmer – 1 Reception, 9 Yards Landon Boston – 1 Reception Defense: Malik Nichols – INT Z’Mauryian Palmer – INT
The Jackson Parish School Board will hold their regularly scheduled monthly meeting on Monday, October 7th. The session will take place at 11:00am in the conference room of the Jackson Parish School District Central Office, located at 315 Pershing Hwy.
A brief agenda of approving the minutes from the September meetings, adopting committee recommendations and hearing Superintendent David Claxton’s comments await the panel of Gerry Mims, Rick Barlow, Paulette Belton, Wade McBride, Calvin Waggoner (President), Dennis Clary and Mary Saulters.
AGENDA
Invocation – Mary Saulters Pledge of Allegiance – Wade McBride Call to Order Consider approving the minutes as presented from the Regular Scheduled meeting held on September 5, 2024. Consider approving the minutes as presented from the Special Called meeting held on September 12, 2024. Consider adopting items per the Committee Reports attached hereto. Superintendent’s Comments Adjourn
In accordance with the Americans Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance, please contact David Claxton at 318-259-4456 describing the assistance that is necessary.
Jonesboro-Hodge Middle School celebrated a week of Homecoming activities this week culminating with Miss Derryn Osborne being crowned as the 2024 Queen in a special school assembly on Thursday, October 3rd. King Campbell was the Queen’s escort.
Later that evening, Queen Osborne and the Homecoming court of 6th, 7th and 8th grade maids and their escorts were recognized on the football field prior to the J-HMS vs Red River Junior High game which the Tigers lost 32-0 with mostly 6th graders starting for head coach Max Martinez.
In 1962, 24-year-old junk dealer Luigi Lo Rosso was clearing out the cellar of a villa on the southern Italian island of Capri. As with anyone who is tasked with this sort of cleaning, Luigi had three basic categories of items; things to keep, things to throw away, and, most difficult of all, things he was unsure of. Luigi usually took only a few seconds to decide where to place each item. Then, Luigi found a rolled-up canvas. He quickly unrolled the painting and glanced at a distorted image of a woman. Luigi noticed a signature in the top left corner but did not recognize the artist’s name.
As quickly as he had unrolled it, he rolled it back up. He placed it in the keep pile and kept sifting through the items in the cellar. Once finished with the task, Luigi returned to his home in Pompeii with the items he had deemed good enough to keep. He sold some of the items, usually “for next to nothing,” but not the distorted paining. He bought a cheap frame to hold the painting and mounted it to the wall. Luigi’s wife was less than impressed.
Two years later, Luigi and his wife had a son they named Andrea. As the boy grew up, he was always aware of the painting because his parents argued about it regularly. There were times when the family considered getting rid of the hideous painting. They considered throwing the painting away. “My mother didn’t want to keep it,” Andrea explained. “She kept saying it was horrible.” For some reason, the painting remained there on the wall of the Lo Rosso home. One day, Andrea’s aunt gave Andrea an encyclopedia of art history. Andrea immediately thought about the horrible painting on their wall. He flipped through the book and found a similar painting of a distorted lady. It appeared that the painting shown in the encyclopedia was of the same lady in the painting that had hung on their wall for decades. The paintings were not identical but had noticeable differences. The title of the painting in the book was “The Buste de Femme.” Andrea learned that the painting was a distorted image of the artist’s mistress, a French photographer and painter named Dora Maar. Andrea looked at the top left corner and realized that the signatures were almost identical. Andrea kept telling his father that the paintings were similar, and the signatures were similar, but Luigi remained unconvinced.
As the years turned into decades, Andrea remained curious about the painting. In 1999, the painting Andrea saw in the book, “the Buste de Femme,” was stolen from a luxury yacht belonging to Saudi billionaire Sheikh Abdul Mohsen Abdulmalik Al-Sheikh. Andrea thought about the painting that still hung on his family’s wall. Twenty years passed. Then, in March 2019, after a four-year search, Arthur Brand, known as the “Indiana Jones of the art world,” found and returned the stolen painting. Again, Andrea thought of the painting that his father had found all those years ago.
Andrea took the reins and sought the advice of the experts at the Arcadia Foundation, a company which specializes in attributions, restorations, and valuations of art works. Cinzia Altieri, a handwriting expert working at the Arcadia Foundation, confirmed the signature on the painting. After an intense investigation, Luca Marcante, president of the Arcadia Foundation, concluded that the painting that Luigi found amongst the junk in that cellar in 1962, which hung on Luigi’s wall in a cheap frame for more than six decades, is an original, authentic painting by Pablo Picasso. Its value has yet to be determined.
The Quitman and Weston Junior High softball and baseball teams opened the 2024 “Fall Ball” season in great fashion with all four squads taking victories on October 1st. A walk off bunt single by Ella Simonelli lifted Quitman while the Lady Wolves smashed Simsboro behind the pitching and hitting of Rachel Bandy. Both the boys teams won a pair with the Wolves thrashing Castor and Doyline at the Jackson Parish Recreation Department Sports Complex on Tuesday, October 1st and both Quitman teams beating Choudrant.
Weston 9 Simsboro 4 (softball) – The Lady Wolves scored three runs in each of the 1st, 3rd and 5th innings to overpower Simsboro in the season opening contest played on Tuesday, October 1st. Rachel Bandy, who struck out 10 in the complete game victory also led the offensive onslaught with two triples and a double while scoring three runs. Tessa Reeves reached base three times and scored three runs and Teegan Hall added two hits and two runs. Gracie Gray also scored for Weston and Ryan Kate Wyatt chipped in with a double and a single.
Weston 8 Castor 3 (baseball) – Leyton Younse, Eli Henderson and C Griffin all scored after drawing three straight walks to give the Wolves a 3-0 lead to open the contest. Then J Lewis, Younse, Henderson, Griffin and Bryce Tolar all walked after H Williams reached on a dropped third strike setting up Weston’s only hit in the contest, a single by Colt Guyotte, to blow the game open in the bottom of the third. Tolar got the win after striking out five in his two innings of work, including the first four Doyline batters he faced.
TEAM
1
2
3
4
R
H
E
Castor
0
1
0
2
3
2
0
Weston (1-0)
3
0
5
x
8
1
1
WP – Tolar (1-0), LP – n/a
Weston 10 Doyline 1 (baseball) – The Wolves scored in all four innings to steadily pull away for the easy victory. Bryce Tolar got things started in the first by singling in Eli Henderson and G Griffin who had reached on an error and a walk and then scored on a wild pitch to give Weston a 3-0 lead. It would be all the Wolves would need thanks to a stellar pitching performance by Leyton Younse and Henderson who combined on a no-hitter and struck out 11 of the 14 Doyline batters they faced. The Wolves upped the lead to 5-0 in the bottom of the second R Davis and Williams reached on a dropped third strike and a walk with two outs and then scored on wild pitches. A walk to Younse followed by a triple by Henderson, and another walk to Griffin and Tolar reaching on catcher’s interference led to four more runs in the bottom of the third to up the lead to 9-0. Colton Otwell scored the final run in the bottom of the fourth after reaching on a dropped third strike moving to second when Jenson Waggoner walked and scored on a wild pitch and passed ball.
TEAM
1
2
3
4
R
H
E
Doyline
0
0
0
1
1
0
2
Weston (2-0)
3
2
4
1
10
2
2
WP – Younse (1-0)
Quitman 9 Choudrant 0 (baseball) The Wovlerines “Blue” team had no trouble with Choudrant as QJH took advantage of erratic pitching by the Aggies while also reaping the benefits of Tucker Goss, Hayden Seymore and Mason Thomas combining on a shutout.
Quitman 4 Choudrant 3 (baseball) – The Wolverines “Gold” team also had a successful day as QJH scored in the last inning to take the victory on a walk-off hit. Aiden Reed, Thatcher Savage and Cason Rogers shared time on the mound.
We are entering the month of October and for this country boy, the arrival of October carried with it a special meaning. It’s time to go squirrel hunting. Season opens in Louisiana Saturday October 5.
Growing up in rural Natchitoches Parish, we had a number of choices as to where we’d go to open season. Goldonna hunters had several hickory, oak and beech-lined creeks to choose from and when I got old enough to hunt alone, my go-to spot early in season was Molideau Creek that tricked through the hardwoods half a mile from our home. Luster Creek was another near-by choice and if you wanted to mix it up with other hunters, bigger and wider Saline Creek was available.
Christmas was special; getting to shuck shoes and go barefoot in spring was exciting; going swimming in the creek for the first time was right up there. Nothing, however, could get the little hairs on the back of my neck activated better than to be able to step into dark woods on a cool October morning for opening day of squirrel season.
A squirrel is a rodent, sometimes carelessly called “tree rats”. I’m resentful when wild squirrels were treated with such disrespect. To a kid growing up in the country who had listened to his dad describe the hunt he had that morning, outwitting a wild squirrel was as big in my young eyes as a trophy buck is to some today.
As the years have gone by, something has happened to the sport of squirrel hunting. Not many kids today get to enjoy the thrill of tagging along behind dad or being able to sneak into the woods with a .22 rifle or shotgun to try to outwit a squirrel. Sitting in a deer stand with dad watching for a buck to step out has just about eliminated the thrill of sneaking up on a squirrel and to me, that’s sad.
There are youngsters today who can sit in a stand and take a season limit of deer who would have no clue as to how to outfox a squirrel. Squirrels are usually seen as pests and nuisances as they rob feeders of deer corn or their noisy scurrying around in the woods around their deer stand disrupts enjoyment of waiting on a deer.
It’s a sad fact that the excitement and fun of squirrel hunting is not what it was when I grew up. Kids today have a plethora of stuff to occupy their time. We didn’t have computer-generated electronic gadgets to compete with what youngsters have at their disposal today. Life was simpler and we learned to enjoy what was available to us then, things like digging earthworms from dried cow patties in the cow barn and catching goggle-eyes in the creek, and squirrel hunting.
After I grew up and had kids of my own, it was a tradition on opening day of squirrel season when I came home with squirrels I had gotten to save a young tender one to fry. Side note – a fried squirrel leg will best anything Colonel Sanders could offer in the fried chicken department. Just last week, my daughter was remembering those special mornings when fried squirrel, biscuits and gravy were something she looked forward to.
Maybe I’ve become an old fuddy duddy still longing for the good old days that have passed me by and haven’t adapted to the changes of modern times. Maybe so, but it would be especially gratifying to know that there are still youngsters today who could catch the thrill of sneaking up on and downing a cat squirrel whittling beech mast, acorns or hickory nuts.
Squirrel hunting on opening day; it may be going the way of the Edsel but it carries with it memories I hope never fade away.
”For an early season squirrel hunter, nothing beats sitting down to a meal of young tender fried squirrel, biscuits and gravy.” Glynn Harris photo
FISHING REPORT
CANEY LAKE – Bass are starting to school with shad imitation lures working best. Also early mornings they’re hitting around pads and moss on topwater lures and buzz baits. Fishing the grass lines with swim baits is starting to pay off. 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 improved with some over 10 pounds reported. Best bets are flipping structure with creature baits and topwater lures early. 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 ramps are closed. For latest information, contact the Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707. LAKE D’ARBONNE – The lake is down 5 feet and fishing has been good. Bass are best fishing the mouth of creeks where there is current using soft plastics, crank baits and spinners. Crappie are bunched up and shiners and jigs are working on them. Bream are slow; catfishing good off the banks. Just be sure if you go to watch out for stumps and obstructions just below the surface. 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 with shiners seeming to work best. Stripers are starting to school and should respond to shad imitation lures. Bass should be schooling and once located will hit shad imitation lures. Some are caught 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 – No report. For latest reports, call Poverty Point Marina at 318/878-0101. LAKE YUCATAN – The water is at pool stage with a slight rise coming this weekend. Catfish are biting and commercial fishermen are catching a good many buffalo. The bass and crappie are slow. For info call Surplus City Landing at 318/467-2259.
Brother Ronny and Sister Gail Taylor, along with the congregation of Gloryway Church in Dodson invites you to come and celebrate homecoming services at 10:00 am on October 27th. Bringing an anointed and inspirational message will be special guest speaker Brother Blake Boyett. Food and fellowship will follow.
Back “in the day” I was a small boy attending Vacation Bible School. I remember one of the thrills was learning how to say the name of the book, “Deuteronomy.” When you can say, “Deuteronomy” you are a big boy!
I also remember making crafts for my mother. If you take four small boxes of matches, put them in a square pattern, glue two old fashion school bathroom tiles to them, you have a matchbook holder, and your mom will be pleased. We made that on Monday and then on Tuesday, we actually made “ash trays” for our parents.
Remember this was Vacation Bible School, 1960’s style.
Fortunately, we don’t make ashtrays in Vacation Bible School anymore. Come to think of it, we don’t even sell ashtrays in stores anymore. That was one whole “section” of the W.T. Grant stores. Ashtrays and cigarette lighters have vanished from cars too. Things have changed for the better I suppose. I do have memories of filling my dad’s cigarette lighter with fluid and then testing the lighter. Do you know what happens to flannel pajamas soaked in lighter fluid? I do!
I wanted to make the point that it isn’t a long journey from ubiquitous to extinct. (I wrote that sentence just to prove I actually attended graduate school.) Think of all the things we used to have around all the time that are gone. Rotary dial phones, cars without shoulder belts, typewriters, mimeograph machines, chalkboards, hymnals (they are vanishing), pure heroes and heroines, and Sunday mornings with nothing happening but church.
Even the mysterious thing called a relationship has changed as “perfumed loved letters” have given way to “text messaging.” Keeping up in a changing world has become ever more challenging, especially in church life. One of the great mantras of church life is, “we have never done it that way before.” I think we should say over some of the things we do, “we should never do it that way AGAIN.”
So, what do you miss that is gone? Do you really miss outhouses or restaurants where there were smoking and non-smoking sections? Do you really miss a humid non air conditioned living room and sitting by the old Victrola. I didn’t think so.
Change is the only constant in life. You are either changing (metabolism) or you are dead. My hope for you is that you are always changing in God’s direction!
Gage Horton (l) and Megan Kelly (2nd from right) win bronze medals at QHS Invitational
Megan Kelly and Gage Horton of Quitman High School defended the home turf with grand fashion as they each placed third in the Quitman Cross Country Invitational that was run at the Jackson Parish Recreation Department Sports Complex on Saturday, September 28th.
Carson Savanna placed second overall and Audrina Martin, both representing Quitman Junior High finished fifth in the boys and girls 7-8 grade division among the seven local runners competing while Arrie Maza of Weston placed 4th and Asher Norred from Quitman finished in 7th place to top local runners in the boys and girls 5-6 grade race.
The 3-4 grade division was won by local girls and boys with Clay Burton of Quitman winning his second straight meet in the boys division and Cecelia Jones, who resides in Quitman but runs for the Ruston Christian Homeschool team, winning the girls competition. Mathew Buchan and Eva Martin, both representing Quitman Elementary finished in 7th and 10th place respectively to lead local runners in the K-2 grade girls event.
Passing a neighbor’s home; my husband Norm noticed both of their cars parked in the yard. That was nothing out of the ordinary. Yet, he wondered if something was wrong when he saw the elderly couple walking up the road. He assumed they were having car trouble so slowed down as he approached.
Coming alongside our neighbors he stopped; rolled down his window and offered them a ride to town. Smiling, they told him there was no problem. They needed the exercise and were just out for a walk.
Do I need to have a problem before I’ll walk with the Lord?
Am I staying in step or walking only as a last resort?
The Lord walks with me as He leads to my final destination. The road traveled is narrow and often winding with unexpected potholes. I must watch my steps but I trust Him to safely take me home.
“Now Enoch lived sixty-five years, and fathered Methuselah. Then Enoch walked with God three hundred years after he fathered Methuselah, and he fathered other sons and daughters. So all the days of Enoch were 365 years. Enoch walked with God; and he was not, for God took him (Genesis 5:21-24 NASB).”
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.
Business Services
T L Services – For all your pressure washing needs. Driveway, house, deck, porch, sidewalk, or any additional residential or commercial applications. Free estimates. Quick turnaround. Call (318) 514 – 8753.
JOB OPPORTUNITY
Jackson Parish Council on Aging
In search of a part time Site Manager for Chatham Meal Site, an Annex of Jackson Council on the Aging. Site Manager duties include: (1) Being responsible for overseeing the operation of packing & serving meals in compliance with health & safety regulations. (2) Making sure facility is clean and functional and well maintained. (3) Ordering meals daily (4) Managing inventory by ordering supplies as needed.
Requirements: (1) Must have High School Diploma (2) Knowledge of food (3) Be able to work 5 days a week.
Applications taken at Jackson Council on the Aging office: 120 Polk Avenue Jonesboro, LA 71251 Mon-Thurs 8:30am-3:30pm
JOB OPPORTUNITY
Jackson Parish Council on Aging
The Jackson Council on Aging is seeking a Nutrition Coordinator. Prefer to have a background in food & nutrition, dietetics or related field. Must be able to be trained and work with Senior Citizens regarding their nutrition needs. Job duties will be assigned to full time operation of the Meal program for Jonesboro and Chatham. Must be able to compile weekly and monthly reports, monitor & order meals daily from Site Managers at Jonesboro & Chatham. Duties will be accomplished under close supervision of the Director of Jackson COA.
Applications being take at Jackson Council on the Aging Office 120 Polk Avenue Jonesboro, LA 71251
PUBLIC NOTICE
Utilities, Inc. of Louisiana Paradise Point Supply is currently in violation of the maximum contaminant level (MCL) for total trihalomethanes as set forth by the State [Part XII of the Louisiana State Sanitary Code (LAC 51:Xll)] and the Federal Primary Drinking Water Regulations (40 CFR Part 141).
The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals (LDHH) set drinking water standards and requires the disinfection of drinking water. Where disinfection is used in the treatment of drinking water, disinfectants combine with naturally occurring organic and inorganic matter present in water to form chemicals called disinfection byproducts (DBPs). EPA and LDHH set standards for controlling the levels of disinfectants and DBPs in drinking water, including trihalomethanes (THMs) and haloacetic acid (HAAs). Some people who drink water containing THMs in excess of the MCL over many years may experience problems with their liver, kidneys, or central nervous system, and may have an increased risk of getting cancer. Some people who drink water containing HAA5s in excess of the MCL over many years may have an increased risk of getting cancer.
In December 1998, EPA set enforceable drinking water standards for TTHMs at 80 parts per billion (ppb) and for HAA5 at 60 parts per billion (ppb) to reduce the risk of cancer or other adverse health effects. Compliance with the TTHMs and HAA5 standards for public water systems servicing less than 10,000 individuals initially became effective and enforceable on January 1, 2004. Compliance with the TTHMs standard is determine by calculating a locational running annual average (LRRA) of quarterly TTHMs sample results. Compliance calculations performed for the third quarter of 2024 show that the system’s current TTHMs LRAAs is 83 ppb at sample location DBP01 – 119 Eden Drive. Thus, the system is currently in violation of TTHMs standards.
The transmission main between Spillway Estates and Paradise Point is complete. During the installation phase of the well, work will include setting the well casing and screen. UIL has ordered pumping equipment for the well. UIL anticipates delivery of the new treatment equipment will arrive in early October for the later construction phases. UIL appreciates your patience as improvements to the water system infrastructure continue.
Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail. If you have any questions, contact the UIL Compliance Administrator, Vicki Spence at 985-893-6646 – Opt. 2.
This is not an emergency. If it had been, you would have been notified immediately. EPA and LDH do not consider this violation to have any serious adverse health effects on human health as a result of short-term exposure; however, continued long-term exposure to TTHMs and HAA5 levels above the standard (e.g., 20 years of exposure) has the potential to have serious adverse effects on human health.
Annie Warren November 8, 1934 – September 28, 2024
Annie Jones Warren ( Affectionally, known as, “Sister”) was born to Prentiss and Emma Jones on November 8, 1934 in Claiborne Parish.
After her health failed in December, 2023 and inability to live alone; she became a resident of North East Louisiana Veterans Home in Monroe, Louisiana. She was admitted to St. Francis Medical Center in Monroe, La. due to an acute illness and she transitioned there on Saturday, September 28, 2024.
Sister Annie confessed her faith in Christ at an early age. She was baptized and joined the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church, she loved the Lord, she loved the CME Church, and she remained faithful. She has served in numerous capacities; as the Sunday School Superintendent, Sunday School teacher, Choir member, Trustee, Steward, recording Steward, Stewardness, Women’s Missionary Society, Board of Christian Education, church secretary, District and Regional Conference Delegate, numerous years. She was a dedicated and willing servant of God.
Sister Annie Jones graduated from Saline High School as Valedictoria. She enrolled in the Air Force and served for appx. five years. Sister Jones was joined in Holy Matrimony to Bro. Maurice Warren.
She was proceeded in death by her sister, Lizzie Jones ; father and mother, Prentiss and Emma Jones; and son-in- law, Sidney Thomas, Jr.
She leaves to cherish her memories: a daughter, Mary Thomas and six grandchildren: Jamelia Lard, Ja’lyah Thomas, Unique Thomas, Sidney Thomas III, Ma’yaina Thomas and Legaci Thomas, all of Charolette, North Carolina. Two sisters: Mary Jones, LaPorta, Texas and Queen Jones, Gibsland, La. Many others including, nephews, nieces, cousins, friends, Mt. Earia CME Church family, community, district, and regional friends.
The Celebration of Life service was held on Friday, October 4th at the Mt. Earia CME Church in Jonesboro with burial following in the Old Athens Cemetery under the direction of Paradise Funeral Home.
On Saturday, October 5th, the Jackson Parish Sports Hall of Fame will hold their annual induction banquet at the Family Life Center of the First Baptist Church in Jonesboro.
The event that recognizes the athletic greats from Jackson Parish will begin with a social hour at 5:00 pm followed by dinner and the induction of six members representing the Class of 2024. Also being recognized will be the male and female athlete of the year from the three public high schools in Jackson Parish along with the Meritorious Service Award winner.
Being inducted into the JPSHOF this year is Ladell Farley, Ricky Johnson, and Shane Holder from Jonesboro-Hodge High School, Jared Stevenson of Quitman High School, Ricky McBride from Weston High and Pam Johnson of the now defunct, Chatham High School.
Wilda Smith will be recognized as the Meritorious Service Award winner with the Male and Female Athlete of the Year from Jonesboro-Hodge, Quitman, and Weston High, as selected by faculty from each school being:
Jonesboro-Hodge High School Ciara Gray DeMarious Burns
NOTE:On October 5th, the Jackson Parish Sports Hall of Fame will enshrine six new members. 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 past several weeks the Jackson Parish Journal has featured each of the inductees.Today’s Edition – Jared Stevenson
On a national scale, when one hears the name Jared, the first thing that comes to mind is the brand name of the iconic national jewelry store that has become a household name over the past 20 years.
Locally that isn’t the case though, especially if you followed Quitman High School basketball in the early 2000’s. For those who were fortunate enough to watch the Wolverines play during the 2003 – 05 seasons, the name Jared brings forth another recollection.
Make no mistake, the name still involves a gem but one that shined in an entirely different type of way. Instead of sparkling in a jewelry store showcase, Jared Stevenson was a gem in the gym.
It wasn’t always that way. When Jared first came to Quitman High School as a transfer from Bethel Christian Academy during his sophomore year in 2002 he was like a rough specimen that needed polishing.
“I would challenge him daily,” recalls Quitman High School Principal, Billy Carter, who was the head boys basketball coach at the time. “He would come back and show me how he worked on what I indicated he needed to get better at and would continue to practice at it until he would eventually master the skill.”
It was midway through that sophomore season that Stevenson moved into the starting lineup. Continuing to hone his skills, Stevenson became one of the better players in north Louisiana, averaging 21 points per game his junior year setting the stage for what is one of the best statistical seasons ever produced on the hardwoods of Jackson Parish.
By the time Stevenson’s senior season came around, the one-time “rough cut” was now a polished and poised scoring machine that had people from all over coming to watch him play.
“Jared’s senior season was one of the best I have ever seen,” said Carter when recalling his nearly three-decade career as a high school coach and administrator.
The statistics that Stevenson put up during the 2005-06 season are sparkling proof to the statement. Over the course of the year, Stevenson averaged 29 points per game, second all time in Jackson Parish history for a single season, only behind legendary Bob Hopkins. Three times Stevenson scored 52 points in a game, again second all-time in Jackson Parish single-game scoring records.
“He was such a silky smooth ball handler who could use either hand fluently,” reminisced Carter. “I always knew that if we could get a lead and make the other team “man up” that no one could stop him.”
Stevenson also averaged 11 rebounds per game, impressive in itself in that he stood only 5’10” tall. There was virtually no phase of the game that he didn’t excell in which helped Quitman make a run to the Class B quarterfinals and their best record in nearly 20 years.
“He was phenomenal,” continued Carter. “We just didn’t have the supporting cast to make a deep run that year but the example he set through his work ethic for the younger players on the team was catalyst of our state runner up finish two years later.”
Stevenson would continue his career at Northwestern State University (NSU) where after a red-shirt year he transferred to Louisiana State University – Shreveport (LSUS) where he became a four-year starter. As this was in the days before the “social media” explosion, many of Stevenson’s high school exploits were witnessed only by those who attended the games resulting in him being a true “diamond in the rough”. Regardless, Jared was a gem!
This Saturday, October 5th, the Jackson Parish Sports Hall of Fame will enshrine six new members, and give homage to the 2004 Male and Female Athlete of the Year from the three public high schools in Jackson Parish.
Also being recognized is the annual Meritorious Service Award winner.
This year’s recipient is Wilda Smith.
Few, if any, have done more for Jackson Parish since the beginning of the new millennium.
Although life’s journey led Wilda Smith away from Jackson Parish for a time, her return home in 2001 brought about her renewed appreciation of community. Her love of and dedication to Jackson Parish is evident in the many hats she dons daily.
She attends First Baptist Church of Jonesboro where she serves on many different committees. She served as secretary, Treasurer, and President of the Jonesboro Downtown Development but upon its dissolvement in 2005, she immediately stepped into the role of Director for the Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce.
As Secretary and Treasurer for the Jackson Parish Museum Board and her positions on the Truancy Board, Jackson Parish Tourism, Jackson Parish Cancer Board, Jonesboro Hodge Lions Club Board, Secretary Jackson Parish Industrial District Board, and the Treasurer Jackson Parish Study Guild; Wilda knows the hard work involved behind the scenes in our community. Wilda also served on the State Commerce and Industry Board for 8 years and was appointed to serve on the State Public Defender Committee by the honorable Judge Jennifer Clason.
Her love of promoting Jackson Parish was enhanced upon being appointed to her position of Secretary for the Jackson Parish Sports Hall of Fame. Each year Smith is mostly responsible for the success of the Sports Hall of Fame annual banquet.
This follows the path where serving as Director for the Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce, Wilda is known for her tenacity and relentless promotion of Jackson Parish and all it has to offer.
Her dedication knows no bounds as she calls upon all available resources to make sure Jackson Parish is a place anyone would be proud to call home. No task is to small for this dedicated public servant, whether it be soliciting for hanging baskets to decorate Jimmie Davis Boulevard or picking weeds from the flowerbeds on a Saturday morning; all just for that special little touch.
In what spare time Wilda can find, she enjoys vacationing, gardening, and golf. Although she stays active in the community, faith and family are the greatest love of her life. She is most proud of her beautiful daughter, Michelle, her Son-in-Love, and their precious family. Wilda thrives on her family and treasures the time she spends with them.
Wilda is known for her loyalty, her commitment and dedication, her passionate personality, her fierce drive to honor the community, and her unyielding zest for life. She is a true matriarch of Jackson Parish.
In 2015, Smith received the Community Leadership Award from The Woman Life, and in 2022 a $500.00 donation to the Chamber of Commerce was given by Fyzical Therapy & Balance Centers in her honor.
Congratulations to Wilda Smith for being the 2024 Jackson Parish Sports Hall of Fame Meritorious Service Award winner.
Not since the 2012-13 football season, the year before Terrance Blankenship became head coach, has the Jonesboro-Hodge Tigers gotten off to an 0-4 start to a football season. Now the longest-tenured coach in Tiger history is trying to implore a sense of urgency to his squad to do what it takes to turn things around. and hopes that the message is heard and understood.
“We are our own worst enemy,” said Blankenship while preparing his team for this Friday night’s contest at Arcadia. “Before we can beat anybody we have got to quit beating ourselves.”
Last week’s 44-8 loss to Lincoln Prep in the Tigers District 1-1A opener is a prime example. Twice J-Hodge gave up “pick six” interception returns for a touchdown. Another L-Prep score came on a return of a fumble. The Tigers also allowed a safety and gave up a kick-off return for a score.
“You simply can’t win making those kind of mistakes,’ confirmed Blankenship.
While the obvious solution of not making the critical errors that has been the bane of the Tigers season to date is an easy to see remedy, the question of how to achieve this is harder to answer.
One option is to start playing more of his younger players.
“We only have 28 players on the roster and 16 of those are freshmen and sophomores so we have been hesitant to throw these youngsters with no experience into the mix,” said Blankenship. “At this point though, we are going to have to look at seeing if maybe they can make a difference.”
Blankenship did say that although frustrated by the slow start that his team had two of their better practices early in the week and seemed to grasp the need to change the season around now.
“We still have the bulk of our district season ahead of us and can still reach the goals we set at the beginning of the season,” said Blankenship. “But for us to achieve what we want we have to get things moving forward this week.”
Kickoff for the contest between the Tigers (0-4, 0-1) and Arcadia (2-2, 1-0) is set for 7:00 pm on Friday. For those not able to make the trip to Arcadia, you can listen to the game on the new home of JHHS football, Roux102, found at 102.3 FM. You can also livestream the game by downloading the Roux102 app.
Jimmie Davis Sate Park Ranger Eric Calvillo (l), and Jackson Parish Library Director Floyd Knox (r).
Are you ready to explore Louisiana ???
Beginning October 1st, the Jackson Parish Library is proud to be included in a new pilot program, which is an amazing collaboration between the Louisiana State Library and Louisiana State Parks.
This program offers library cardholders the opportunity to explore twenty-one different Louisiana historical sites and parks, including Jimmie Davis State Park on Caney Lake in Jackson Parish.
As a selected participant, JPL has been granted a limited number of passes that you may obtain simply by using your library card!
This pass also includes a backpack that contains all the supplies needed to explore our great state.
Rules and restrictions may apply. For more information and details call (318) 259 – 5697 or come to the Main Branch of the Jackson Parish Library, located at 614 South Polk Avenue in Jonesboro.
We are proud to help you enjoy the great state of Louisiana!
Jonesboro-Hodge Middle School will celebrate Homecoming by hosting Red River Junior High (Coushatta) on Thursday, October 3rd. Kick-off is scheduled for 5:30 pm at the JHMS football field. The 2024 Homecoming court and Queen will also be presented to the fans. The contest is part of a week-long of activities where students and faculty participate in daily fun and unique clothing wear as part of “Spirit Week”.
In an effort to show their respect and appreciation for the safety and protection provided by local law enforcement officials, Gracepoint Christian Academy invites the public to “Coffee with a Cop” on Wednesday, October 2nd. Coffee and donuts will be served at the event, which will take place from 8:00 to 9:00 a.m. at the school located at 1490 South Hudson Avenue in Jonesboro. All active and retired law enforcement officers are encouraged to attend.
“Fall Ball” has begun for local junior high baseball and softball teams from Quitman and Weston with both schools playing their season opening contests on Tuesday, October 1st.
The Wolves opened with two games at the Jackson Parish Recreation Department Sports Complex beginning with a contest against Castor and followed by a game against Doyline. The Lady Wolves also opened their season at the JPRD, playing host to Simsboro while the Junior High Wolverines
The Quitman Junior High baesball and softball teams also began their season at home, beginning with the Wolverine baseball team welcoming Choudrant for a doubleheader and the QJH softball team playing host to Calvin.
Thursday, October 3rd
Both schools will also be in action on Thursday, October 3rd, highlighted by the Lady Wolverine softball team hosting a three team, round robin event that includes Stanley and Choudrant. QJH will first play Stanley at 5:00 pm and after Stanley and Choudrant play, Quitman will take on Choudrant in the nightcap slated to begin at 6:15 pm. The Wolverine baseball team will also take part in a round robin event in Sterlington beginning with a 4:30 contest against Claiborne Christian followed by a game agasint the host team.
The Weston Junior High baseball team will host Choudrant at the JPRD for a doubleheader slated to begin at 4:30 pm while the Weston Softball team will make their first road trip of the season traveling to Castor for a doubleheader beginning at 5:00 pm. The Lady Wolves will follow that up with a another doubleheader at Saline on Friday, October 4th with first pitch scheduled for 4:00 pm.
A recap of all games will be in the Sunday edition of the Jackson Parish Journal.
Shane Holder, Ladell Farley, Ricky Johnson, Rickey McBride, Pamela Johnson McConnell and Jared Stevenson.
Annie Jones Warren ( Affectionally, known as, “Sister”) was born to Prentiss and Emma Jones on November 8, 1934 in Claiborne Parish.
