Class 5A Haughton put a damper on “Letterjacket Night” at Weston High School by reaching a new season high in points in both the girls and boys contests. In boys action, the Wolves posted their second highest scoring total of the year but fell to 5-12 overall with a fourth straight loss and 7th in the last 8 games. The girls dropped to 11-6 overall in the battle of top ranked teams in their respective divisions as Haughton, the 4th ranked team in Division I among non-select schools ran their season opening winning streak to 14 straight games with the victory over the Class B, 4th ranked Lady Wolverines. 

Haughton 81 Weston 48 (girls) The Lady Bucs proved their strength by scoring a new season high in points. The Lady Bucs opened by scoring the first nine points to take a 23-7 first quarter lead. Carly Jo Griffin paced Weston with 19 points while Briley Peterson and Anslee Aldy added 14  and 13 points respectively for the Lady Wolves. Carlynn Waters scored the other two points for Weston. 

Haughton 85 Weston 63 (boys) The Buccaneers also scored a new season high in points to put away the Wolves despite Nathin Wages having a big night with 19 points, the third consecutive game he has scored in double figures and sixth time in the last seven games. Bryce Zehr, Dawson Clifton and Brody Tidwell also had big games will all three scoring in double digits with 15, 13 and 11 points each. Daniel Williams rounded out the scoring for Weston with 7 points. 

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Jonesboro-Hodge fell to Lakeview in both girls and boys action on Tuesday, but both JHHS teams made a good showing against two of the top girls and boys squads in north Louisiana for most of the contests. The Lady Tigers fell by a score of 57-29 and continued the recent trend over the last 8 games of winning one and losing one to drop to 4-6 on the season. Lakeview, ranked #2 in the most recent Division IV power ranking, improved to 10-4 on the year. The J-H boys team  dropped to 2-7 on the year while 5th ranked Lakeview upped their record to 9-2 overall. 

Lakeview 57 JHHS 30 (girls): For three quarters the Lady Tigers played Lakeview to basically a standstill but the 21-4 second quarter posted by the Gators proved to be too much to overcome.  Seven players scored for JHHS with Morgan McGee leading the way with 9 points. Jaylena Jackson was next with 6 points followed by both Sanaa Tatum and  LeRonda McGuire scoring 4 points apiece. LaKayla McGuire finished with 3 points while Tyya Davis and Jakhorielle Lard tallying two each. 

Lakeview 52 JHHS 39 (boys): An inspired first half saw the Tigers take a 20-18 halftime advantage but Lakeview proved their strength by outscoring JHHS 34-19 in the second half to take the victory. The loss overshadowed a superb effort by Ariy’un Bradford who led JHHS with 16 points, all coming in the last three quarters of play. D.J. Palmer also had a good game with 8 points, five coming in the first quarter. Dylan Hayes and Kamerin Bradley finished with four each, Samuel Combs hit a three pointer and both Za’mauryian Palmer and Tysen Burns added a basket each. 

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On Monday, December 16th, six exceptional young ladies at Jonesboro-Hodge Elementary School was presented as the members of the 2024-25 J-HES Winter Royal Court. 

The six honorees hold at least a 3.0 GPA, have no behavioral referrals, and were the highest fundraisers for their respective grade levels. All funds collected go towards the Student Activities account.

2024-25 J-HES Winter Royal Court

Miss Kindergarten: Ladi Burns
Miss First Grade: Amoni Jones
Miss Second Grade: Taelyn Boston
Miss Third Grade: Skylynne Hurst
Miss Fourth Grade: Mez’ Meri Walker
Miss Jonesboro-Hodge Elementary: Lainey Elmore

“I’d like to first thank the guardians/parents for your support of this event and our school. Next, I’d like to thank the community (specifically local churches and businesses) for their monetary donations, time, and support for public education. Last but certainly not least, I’d like to thank the faculty and staff of Jonesboro-Hodge Elementary and Jonesboro-Hodge High for making this presentation possible.” – Ms. Copeland, Principal

 

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The Jonesboro-Hodge Methodist Church (JHMC), located at 402 4th Street in Jonesboro, is preparing to celebrate their first Christmas season after the move of unaffiliating with the United Methodist Church organization earlier this year.

Making the move a most pleasant one was having new Pastor Gary Green and his wife Susan lead the congregation through the process and guiding the church back to the bible based beliefs the church was founded on.

“I wish to invite all the people without a church home to come and visit,” said Pastor Green, who first entered the ministry as a Lay Speaker in 1977 and along with his wife, Susan, is working diligently to making JHMC a preferred place of worship for all Jackson Parish residents.

Most fathers would do just about anything to protect their daughters from harm, criticism, and unhappiness. Margaret’s father was no different. In December 1950, Margaret, a soprano singer, performed at the famous Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, Tennessee to crowds who were enthusiastic about her “winning manner, discriminating selection of music, and naturalness.”

She had had many successes in concert and solo roles with several orchestras. On this particular night, Margaret was accompanied by Herman Allison on piano. When the curtain rose, Margaret greeted the large, cheering crowd wearing a concert dress of sari material, billowy material woven of gold and silver threads, which had been a gift from the wife of the Prime Minister of Pakistan.” One critic reported that she won over the audience “before she sang a note.” During her performance, she sang such difficult selections as “The Nightingale” by Schubert, “The Nut Tree,” by Schumann, and an aria from “Le Nozze de Figaro.” So enthused was the audience that night that Margaret performed two encores.

While many other critics wrote positive reviews, 34-year-old Paul Hume, music editor for The Washington Post, was less than impressed. Hume wrote that Margaret “cannot sing very well” and “is flat a good deal of the time.” “There are a few moments during her recital,” he wrote, “when one can relax and feel confident that she will maker her goal, which is the end of the song… It is an extremely unpleasant duty to record such unhappy facts about so honestly appealing a personality. But as long as [Margaret] sings as she has for three years, and does today, we seem to have no recourse unless it is to omit comment on her programs altogether.” It was a biting review.

In response, Margaret said that she had not had time to read the review but he, Paul Hume, “has a perfect right to say whatever he thinks.” She had received other negative reviews from critics in the past, but concert hall, radio, and television audiences adored her. Despite the critics, people flocked to see her perform. Margaret brushed off the negative review. Margaret’s father, however, was enraged by Hume’s review. He wrote a scathing letter to Hume in which he said, “I have just read your lousy review buried in the back pages. You sound like a frustrated old man who never made a success, an eight-ulcer man on a four-ulcer job, and all four ulcers working.” Margaret’s father’s anger grew as he continued to write. “I never met you but if I do, you’ll need a new nose and plenty of beefsteak and perhaps a supporter below.” In the letter, Margaret’s father threatened to “beat [him] up, from top to bottom.”

On the following day, newspapers reprinted parts of Margaret’s father’s letter. At first, Margaret was surprised and did not believe her father wrote the scathing letter. When she learned that her father had written the letter, she told the press that she had “no comment to make.” Margaret’s father explained that he had written the letter out of love for his daughter.

On March 27, 2002, more than five decades later, Margaret’s father’s letter to Paul Hume was auctioned by the world-famous Christie’s Auction House. The letter sold for $193,000. You see, Margaret’s father wrote the letter on White House stationery. Margaret’s father was President Harry Truman.

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The Jonesboro-Hodge Elementary School boys basketball team ran their record to 2-0 and finished their 2024 portion of the schedule undefeated by beating Quitman 27-22 on Monday, December 16th. The J-HES girls lost 20-8. 

Caiden Jackson led the Tigers in scoring with 12 points. Addarren Amos scored six, Tyson Brown finished with five and both Jace Jackson and Dacieon Kenney chipped in two points apiece. 

D’Allyua Boston led the J-HES girls with 4 points while both Charity Harper and Morgan Osborne finished with two points each. 

J-HES will next be in action on Monday, January 6th at 5:30 pm when they travel to Quitman for a rematch. Cost of admission will be $5.00 per person. 

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Mallory is my daughter-in-law. She was here this last weekend. There was a shopping adventure on Saturday and that evening she was wrapped the presents. Mallory is one of “those” gift wrappers. I stood and watched her wrap gifts. With engineering precision, she made one cut of the wrapping paper. The ends of the gifts wrapped were perfect. She used a minimum amount of tape. She did it with the skill of a neurosurgeon and the speed of a NASCAR pit crew member. I gave up attempts at gift wrapping decades ago. A gift bag is a blessing for people like me.

Mallory was so peaceful as she was wrapping at the speed of light.

This time of year, requires speed. Everyone promises it to us. The Postal Service, UPS, and FedEx promise they are the speediest. I’m waiting for one of them to promise overnight delivery on Christmas Eve. Although I think St. Nick and the Elf union would fight that infringement on their gig. Amazon has amazing speed, but you pay for it. Their free delivery takes from 3-5 business days, or you can opt for their expensive express delivery which will arrive in 4-6 business days. In many cases the free shipping is quicker than the express shipping you pay for.

Go figure.

Here’s the thing, I’m wondering if we should be working on our “slowing skills.”
I lived in Natchitoches for ten years. I loved the Christmas lights! At the residential end of the Church Street bridge there is a sign that says Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. The challenge is that the traffic lights are directly in front of the sign. So, if you are a visitor to that city and you don’t know that secret, you often are challenged to see and follow the traffic lights.

I remember one evening trying to hurry home across the Church Street bridge.

In front of me was a van from the state of Hittite. (Don’t want to tell you the state lest I offend.) This van was driving 2 miles an hour over the bridge at 5:30 p.m. These out-of-state guests were looking at the wonderful light display on the other side of the river. This nice van driver speeding at two miles an hour looking at the lights was not looking at the road. Twice the van hit the curb on the Church Street Bridge.

That is no small curb.

They didn’t seem too bothered by their dual collisions with the curb. At the end of the road, they stopped at the green light. They met the big sign hiding the traffic lights. I waited patiently for as long as I could stand it, then I sent them an audible automotive suggestion that they complete their right turn.

Paul wrote, “But when the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law.” I wonder how long it took for time to fully come? Christmas day is getting ever closer.

Maybe we would be more faithful witnesses to our faith if we learned some slowing skills. Be patient with people in the parking lot, the check-out line, over worked wait staff in the diner, and those you love who are also caught in the Christmas speed trap. Be patient with those who are having their first Christmas without loved ones or without their children being home. Practice patience with those who are not moving at the same Christmas speed.

Learn “slowing skills” and wait, Christmas always arrives on time.

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Patrons of both the Jonesboro and Chatham branches of the Jackson Parish Library were treated to a special Christmas Concert on Monday, December 16th. “Madam Dulcimer” Amanda Roberts and “Lady Chops” Elizabeth Vidos gave their first show to the Jonesboro Branch attendees at 3:00 pm before going to Chatham for a 6:00 pm show. 

Santa makes visit to Chatham Branch

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A Sleepless Night

I purposely had sleepless nights; I stayed awake listening to the radio while talking on the phone. My future husband was a DJ and we carried on conversations till daybreak. Night watchmen have a different incentive for sleepless nights; it’s required by their employers.

Bethlehem shepherds lives were transformed during a sleepless night.

“And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,

Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men (Luke 2:9-14 KJV).”

Excited, the shepherds went quickly to look for the baby.

“And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child.

And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds (Luke 2:17-18 KJV).”

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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.

Free Puppies Offered

Free Golden Retriever puppies who need a new home due to owners relocating are being offered. One male and one female, excellent temperament and both are house trained. Preferably email me first at: stephaniechristensen59@gmail.com before sending text to (980) 353-7582.

JOB OPPORTUNITY

Benoit Ford – Need two outgoing people to train for professional sales representatives! Guaranteed income with unlimited potential commission! We offer a full benefit package including insurance and 401k. Apply in person Monday – Friday from 9:00 am – 5:00 pm at the dealership located at 601 Hudson Avenue in Jonesboro or call Anthony Gray @ 225-200-8289.

JOB OPPORTUNITY 

The Jackson Parish Recreation District is taking applications for a Recreation Director until December 20th. All applications should be submitted to the Jackson Parish Recreation District main office located at 5254 Hwy 4, east of Jonesboro. 

Job Requirements:

The role of a Recreation Director involves overseeing recreational programs and activities, managing staff, and ensuring that programs meet the needs of the community or specific population they serve. The job requirements may vary depending on the organization (e.g., city government, schools, community centers, resorts, etc.), but generally include a combination of education, experience, and key skills.

Special Requisites:

Applicants must not have been convicted of a felony or any misdemeanor that involved violence, force, illegal liquor or drug laws, moral turpitude, money or inappropriate dealings with a minor.

***All appointments for employment with the Parish are contingent upon the successful completion of a drug test.

1. Educational Requirements:
Bachelor’s Degree in Recreation, Leisure Studies, Sports Management, Public Administration, or a related field.
Certifications such as:
Certified Parks and Recreation Professional (CPRP) from the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA).
First Aid and CPR certification (often required for program safety).

2. Experience Requirements:
3-5 years of progressive experience in recreational programming, including planning, organizing, and managing recreational programs or facilities.
2+ years of experience in a supervisory role, managing staff, and leading teams.
Experience in budgeting and financial management, including allocating funds, monitoring expenditures, and seeking grants or other funding sources.
Experience in concession operations, cash transactions, money handling, and inventory management and control.
Previous work in community outreach or public relations to engage community members in recreational activities.
Experience working with diverse populations, including children, seniors, and individuals with disabilities, is often preferred.
Game Day management: including but not limited to the following; team uniforms, Awards, Selecting Coaches, Selecting All-Stars, Scheduling practices, Scheduling games, scheduling uses of recreation facilities, selecting player rosters for baseball, softball, basketball, flag football and any other sport sponsored or hosted by the rec department.
Conflict Resolution: Requires the ability to exercise judgment, decisiveness and creativity in situations involving the evaluation of information against sensory, judgmental, or subjective criteria, as opposed to that which is clearly measurable or verifiable. Considerable knowledge of modern principles, methods, and procedures of Parks and Recreation administration, and management. Maintain a cool, calm demeanor during confrontations / disagreements.

3. Skills and Competencies:
Leadership: Strong leadership abilities to effectively manage a team, employees, coordinate multiple activities, and make decisions in a timely manner.
Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills to interact with staff, community members, government officials, and the public.
Knowledge of modern office practices, procedures and equipment; Proficient in Microsoft Office products to include Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Publisher.
Organizational Skills: Ability to plan, organize, and execute a variety of recreational programs and activities simultaneously.
Problem-Solving: Strong analytical skills to address issues as they arise and come up with solutions to challenges in programming or facility management.
Customer Service: Ability to handle customer inquiries, complaints, and feedback professionally.
Budget Management: Experience managing budgets, creating cost-effective programs, and seeking funding through grants or partnerships.
Event Planning: Experience in organizing and managing events, tournaments, festivals, and special activities.
Team Management: Ability to recruit, train, and supervise staff, volunteers, umpires, referees and instructors.

4. Key Responsibilities:
Program Development & Management:
Develop, implement, and oversee recreational programs, activities, and special events for the community.
Ensure that programs align with the needs and interests of the community.
Evaluate program success and make adjustments based on feedback and participation levels.
Staff Supervision:
Hire, train, and manage a team of recreation staff, including program leaders, assistants, and volunteers.
Provide ongoing leadership and support to staff, conducting performance reviews and coaching where necessary.
Implement a Background Check program for employees, volunteers, and vendors.
Budget & Resource Management:
Create and manage the recreation department’s annual budget.
Allocate resources effectively and ensure programs are delivered within budget.
Identify and secure funding opportunities, including grants, sponsorships, and fundraising.
Ensures the secure handling of cash, receipts, and deposits of recreation money.
Manage day to day expenses, makes deposits, and ensures all cash registers, credit card machines, or any other financial responsibilities are balanced at end of day.

Facility Management: EQUIPMENT/JOB LOCATION
The employee will operate light duty vehicles, parks maintenance equipment, irrigation and lighting systems, mobile radios, recorders, cameras, computers, calculators, fax and other modern office equipment. The employee works inside and outside and may be exposed to smoke, fumes and chemicals, toxic substances, noise, machinery with moving parts. The employee may be required to lift objects weighing more than 25 pounds. Intermittently sitting, standing, stooping, lifting and walking is required.
Oversee the maintenance and upkeep of recreation facilities, ensuring that they are safe, clean, and well-equipped for programs. This includes the Recreational Facility on Hwy 4 and The Jackson Parish Golf Course location.

Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.

Community Engagement:
Foster partnerships with local organizations, businesses, and community leaders to enhance program offerings and community involvement.
Promote recreational activities to encourage community participation.
Marketing and Promotion:
Develop marketing materials, including brochures, flyers, and social media content, to promote programs and events.
Use various platforms to raise awareness of recreation opportunities.
Interact with the public, private schools in the parish and surrounding areas.
Compliance & Safety:
Ensure all activities meet safety standards and that staff are trained in emergency procedures and first aid.
Comply with local government regulations, licensing, and insurance requirements for recreational programming.
Report Generation & Data Analysis:
Track program participation and analyze data to evaluate success and identify areas for improvement.
Prepare regular reports for management or governing bodies on the status of programs, budgets, and facilities.

5. Physical and Mental Requirements:
Ability to work in a variety of physical environments, including outdoors or in athletic facilities.
Ability to occasionally lift and move equipment, set up facilities, and supervise physical activities.
Strong interpersonal and emotional intelligence to deal with a variety of people, including participants, children, parents, staff, and community leaders.
Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays, as many recreational activities occur outside of regular business hours.
Ability to operate lawn equipment.
The work environment characteristics described are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable those with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• Performance of essential functions may require exposure to adverse environmental conditions, such as dirt, pollen, odors, chlorine gas, methane gas, wetness, humidity, rain, temperature and noise extremes, fumes, hazardous materials, machinery, vibrations, electric currents, traffic hazards, bright/dim light, and toxic agents.
• The typical work schedule is Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM; schedule is subject to change based on organizational needs and to call out at any time of the day or night on any day of the year.
Work Hours During each Season:
– Hours and days may vary depending on different sports seasons. May be asked to stay until Midnight on some nights to oversee all games being played at the recreation department.
– May be asked to work weekends during Basketball season.
– May be asked to work at Golf course during summer months

Other Duties and Responsibilities
● Coordinate and manage all Parish Sponsored events
● Establish a five year plan designed to develop, direct, and evaluate comprehensive recreations programs and activities
● Assess and monitor community needs; Identify opportunities for improvement and implementation programs
● Ability to plan, organize, and direct complex and varied recreational activities and programs

6. Other Preferred Qualities:
Experience with diverse populations, including individuals with disabilities, at-risk youth, or senior citizens.
Ability to advocate for the department and the importance of recreational services within the community.
• Pesticide Certification
• Playground Maintenance and Safety Inspector
• Certified Park and Recreation Professional
• Event Management Training
• Turf Management Training
• CPR/First Aid Training
• Knowledge of NFHS Rules and Training
• Knowledge of Federal, State, and Parish Laws

PUBLIC NOTICE

Utilities, Inc. of Louisiana Spillway Water Supply is currently in violation of the maximum contaminant level (MCL) for total trihalomethanes and haloacetic acids 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 HAA5 standard is determine by calculating a locational running annual average (LRRA) of quarterly HAA5 sample results. Compliance calculations performed for the fourth quarter of 2024 show that the system’s current TTHMs LRAAs are 99 ppb at sample location DBP02 – 133 Suanna Road and 111 ppb at DBP03- 211 Spruce Drive. The system’s current HAA5 LRAAs are 68 ppb at sample location DBP02 – 133 Suanna Road and 71 ppb at DBP03- 211 Spruce Drive; thus, the system is currently in violation of HAA5 and TTHMs standards.

UIL has received the GAC filter pumping equipment, and contractors have begun installing it. The final stage of construction is having the power provider relocate the electrical service line. 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.

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 fourth quarter of 2024 show that the system’s current TTHMs LRAAs is 90 ppb at sample location DBP01 – 119 Eden Drive. Thus, the system is currently in violation of TTHMs standards.

UIL has received the GAC filter pumping equipment, and contractors have begun installing it. The final stage of construction is having the power provider relocate the electrical service line. 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.

 

 

 

 

Mary Lloyd Bryant
December 9, 1956 – December 7, 2024

Mary Lloyd Bryant of Arlington, Texas, passed away early on Saturday, December 7, 2024, after experiencing a sudden onset of a previously undiagnosed condition of interstitial lung disease.

Mary was born on December 9, 1956, in Hodge, Louisiana, to parents Lloyd G. Bryant and Mary Hay Bryant. She was the first of two little girls born to the couple. She and her younger sister, Brenda, grew up outside of Hodge on a farm with a multitude of dogs, cats, cows, and horses as playmates. Mary attended Hodge Elementary School and Jonesboro-Hodge High School, graduating in 1974. She played saxophone in the band at Jonesboro-Hodge, and then later joined the Pep Squad. Her first job while she was in high school was working in the concession stand at The Palace Theater in Jonesboro. She and her family were active members of the First Baptist Church in Jonesboro, La.

She moved to Arlington, Texas, after her high school graduation to attend Bauder Fashion College, where, in 1976, she received an Associate’s degree in Fashion Merchandising. After a short career spent in retail work, she began a career as a clerical professional for the Pennzoil Corporation in Houston, Texas. After a time, she moved back to north Texas and was employed by a number of mortgage companies including Bright Mortgage, Lomas and Nettleton, RMIC, and Saxon Mortgage.

In the early 2,000’s, she changed career paths and moved into the field of older adult residential care. She had been employed at The Morada Independent Living Center in Pantego, Texas, for over 20 years at the time of her death.

Mary loved all things related to holidays, with her favorite being the Christmas season. She lavishly decorated her home with Christmas trees and lights, and she would fashion her wardrobe to match the season. Christmastime always brought out her childlike spirit, and she received much personal joy and happiness celebrating the Christmas holidays.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents, Lloyd G. Bryant, Mary H. Bryant Haile, and John L. Haile. She is survived by her son, Dylan M. Bryant, and her sister, Brenda Bryant Beaver, both of Arlington, Texas; her close friend and godmother to her son, Alicia Gray, of Arlington, Texas; her brother, Bill Haile, of Monroe, Louisiana; her nephew, Daniel Beaver and his wife, Katie, of Huntsville, Texas; her niece, Beth Patton and her husband, Daniel, of Huntsville, Alabama; her beloved great-nieces and great-nephews, Addie Beaver, Nora Patton, Andrew Beaver, and Colten Beaver; her fur babies, Zeus, Loki, and Thor, and many other beloved family members and friends.

Mary was well known for her generous spirit of giving gifts to everyone she knew and loved. She was adamant about giving gifts, even when she had been requested not to do so! Her last act of generous giving was her most extraordinary one: Mary was an organ and tissue donor, and her gifts have enabled others to experience a second chance at living a healthy life.

Services to celebrate Mary’s life will be scheduled at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider becoming a life-giving donor for organs and tissues.

Richard Allen Pierce
April 14, 1937 – December 15, 2024

Mr. Richard Allen Pierce passed away at Forest Haven Nursing Home on December 15. He was 87 years old. Richard was from South Terrebonne Parish where he taught and coached in Houma, Louisiana. Later, he coached baseball at Nichols State University and after he retired, he offered private baseball lessons to youth around the state. Richard loved to fish, and eventually opened “Cajun Seafood Restaurant” in Houma. He moved to Jonesboro in his later years to be near his daughter, Donna Olivier and her husband, Randy.

Richard is also survived by his grandchildren, Ashley Boudreaux (Steven) and Dustin Olivier (Lindsey); and great-grandchildren, Riley Rhodes, Kenzy Boudreaux, Brianna Boudreaux and Jack Olivier.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Geraldine (Rogers) Pierce; father, Frances Daniel Pierce; and mother, Teresa (Arceneaux) Pierce.

Richard will be cremated. A memorial service has not been set.

Reggie Glen Plunkett
March 30, 1969 – December 16, 2024

Reggie Glen Plunkett passed away in Quitman, Louisiana on Sunday, December 15, 2024, at the age of 55. He was a quiet and kind-hearted person who enjoyed helping others and was well-liked and respected by his co-workers. Reggie took very good care of his parents and was the best nurse they could have had. Reggie’s legacy of kindness and service will be remembered by those whose lives he touched.

Survivors include his sisters, Susie Pyles and Wanda Plunkett; nephew, Jeremy Pyles (Tanya); great nieces and nephews, Hunter Pyles (Shaylea), Yancey Jerred, James Jerred, Josh Jerred, and April Jerred; great-great nieces and nephews, Cohen Barnett and Cheyenne Carlisle; and uncle, Johnny Jerred.

Reggie was preceded in death by his father, J.W. Plunkett; and mother, Joyce Jeanette (Burnum) Plunkett.

Reggie will be cremated. A private family committal service will take place at Little Hope Cemetery near Castor, Louisiana.

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(Jackson Parish) The Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office is seeking public assistance to locate Reggie Glen Plunkett, a missing Jackson Parish man.

Reggie Plunkett, 55, was last seen on Friday, December 6, 2024, near his home on Lockhart Drive at approximately 8:30 pm.

Plunkett last known location was near his residence, where he was reportedly seen walking. He has not been seen or heard from since.

The Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office urges anyone with information about Plunkett’s whereabouts to contact them at 318-259-9021. Authorities emphasize that even small details could aid in locating him.

No additional information has been released regarding the circumstances of his disappearance. The investigation is ongoing, and officials continue to seek leads.

The Sheriff’s Office thanks the public for any assistance in this matter.

 

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You are invited to enjoy “holiday shopping at its best” in Jonesboro when the downtown merchants in Jonesboro along Jimmie Davis Blvd., Polk Avenue, and 6th Street open their doors from 12:00 – 4:00 pm.

Merchants participating are MeMe’s Children Boutique, Kay’s Designs Flowers and Gifts, Pink Magnolia Boutique, Salty Brahma, Serendipity, Undexpected Discoveries, Sunrise & Co., and Southern Charleigh Boutique.   

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The Jackson Parish Police Jury held their regularly scheduled monthly meeting on Monday, December 9th. The session was held in the Nathaniel Zeno, Jr., Meeting Room of the Jackson Parish Administrative Building, located at 160 Industrial Drive in  Jonesboro.

Prior to the session, a Public Hearing regarding the 2024 budget was held where discussion was offered concerning two Ordinances that were to be voted on in the regular session. 

The regular session opened with the Police Jury opting to continue with the leadership of this past year by electing Todd Culpepper and Amy Magee to serve as President and Vice President for 2025. 

The two budget ordinances (described below) were then adopted unanimously by jury members by a roll call vote. 

Ordinance No. 01-1209-2024: to amend Ordinance No. 02-1219-2023 annual operating budgets of revenues and expenditures for General Fund, Special Revenue Funds, Debt Service Fund, and Capital Project Fund for the fiscal year 2023.

Ordinance No. 02-1209-2024: to adopt operating budgets of revenue and expenditures for the fiscal year beginning January 1, 2025, and ending December 31, 2025, for General Fund, Special Revenue Funds, Debt Service Fund, and Capital Projects Funds.

Approval of the minutes of the November 25, 2024, Special Called Police Jury Meeting, monthly purchase orders, and the payment of all bills followed. 

The session continued with the approval of recommendations made by the following committee’s. 

Road Committee

1. Remove Bolds Road, Henderson Road, and Jackson McCarty Road from the Jackson Parish Road System..
2. Leave C. Osborne Road in the Jackson Parish Road System.
3. Maintaining end point on Quail Ridge Road.
4. Assist the Jonesboro Fire Department and Jonesboro Fire Protection District #1 with their request. 
5. Assist the Village of Eros with their repair request at a rate of $100 an hour with a 4-hour minimum.
6. Repair the damaged section on Bear Knoll.

Building and Ground Committee

1. Adopt the minutes of the November 25, 2024 meeting.
2. Raise the Community Center rental fee by $100.00. Make it $750.00 per rental effective January 1, 2025.

Management Reports by Operations Manager – Mr. Brad Roller, Road Superintendent – Mr. Wayne Anderson, and Solid Waste Superintendent – Mr. Robin Sessions were then hear as well as the Police Jury accepting the Emergency/Off-Schedule Report.

Other Business
1. Engineering Report – Mr. Paul Riley, The Riley Co. of Louisiana
2. Announcement of Public Meeting- Sales Tax Renewal.
3. Accept the 2025 Material Bids.
4. Adopt the 2024 budget amendments and 2025 budget for the library board.
5. Act on Parish Board Appointments.

Announcements & Notifications
Alcohol permits have been issued to D & D Enterprises and the Lazy Gator for 2025.
Registration has opened for the 2025 PJAL Convention. The dates are February 12-14. 2025.

 

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The Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office announces that 2024 Property Tax notices have been mailed. If you have not received your tax notice please contact the JPSO at 318-395-6017 during business hours of 8:00 am to 4:30 pm, Monday through Thursday and 8:00 am to 12:00 pm on Friday.

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On December 12th, residents of the Town of Jonesboro received a message regarding the water bills, stating that they had been lost in the mail. The following statement was sent. 

Dear Citizens of Jonesboro,
We are writing to inform you that the water bills were mailed out, but regrettably, they have been lost in the mail. We are taking all necessary steps to resolve this matter. If you have any questions about your bill, please feel free to contact City Hall at (318) 259-2385. We apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused.

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The Village of Chatham held its regularly scheduled meeting on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, at 6:00 pm. Present were Mayor Gregory Harris, council members Bernadean James and Toni Malone. Absent were Laverne Mixon, Sue Proffer and Mike Wilson.

It was noted that a quorum was not present. As a result, no official decisions were made and no votes could be conducted.

Members present discussed various topics which included qualifications for Chief of Police and Patrol Officer and findings of rate study. A follow-up meeting will be scheduled to ensure a quorum is present for voting on pending matters.

The meeting was adjourned at 6:15pm.

The next regular meeting will be held at 6:00 pm on January 14, 2025, at Village Hall located at 1709 Oak Street in Chatham, LA.

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The representatives for the “Student / Athlete of the Week” Award for the week of December 8-14 has been selected. The award, which is sponsored by the Jackson Parish Hospital, recognizes an outstanding student/athlete chosen by select members of the faculty and staff from each of the three Jackson Parish School District high schools. 

The honorees are chosen for best exemplifying what it means to be a true student-athlete through academic achievement and athletic accomplishment. Each recipient is recognized by the Jackson Parish Hospital through social media and receives a special commemorative shirt.

Earning accolades this week are Briley Peterson, who is a senior girls basketball player at Weston High School, Cali Deal, a senior Quitman High School girls basketball player and Sophomore girls basketball player at Jonesboro-Hodge High School, Sanaa Tatum.   

Join Jackson Parish Hospital as we congratulate and applaud these athletes for their dedication and achievements!

Student-Athlete of the Week

Briley Peterson (12th grade) – Weston High School girls basketball team

Cali Deal (12th grade) – Quitman High School girls basketball team

Sanaa Tatum (10th grade) – Jonesboro-Hodge High School girls basketball team

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Just call them the Giant Killers! Four times this season, the boys basketball team from Quitman High School has played Class 5A schools. Four times the Wolverines have come away victorious. 

The latest two “big boy” victims were Haughton and West Ouachita who both fell to Quitman in the annual Neil Kilgore Tournament played at Cedar Creek High School. The Wolverines opened the tournament by beating Haughton for the second time this year by a 58-48 score and then capped off the productive weekend by slipping past West Ouachita 69-66 in overtime. The two victories improved Quitman’s record to 12-2 on the year and ran the Wolverines area best winning streak to 11 straight. 

Quitman 58 Haughton 48 (Thursday): Noah Leach scored a season 18 points, including six free throws down the stretch to lift Quitman to their second victory in two attempts over their Class 5A opponent. Taden Thomas also came up big with 13 points, another season best. Other contributors were Brayden Smith and Gavyn Caskey with 7 and 6 points respectively while Brayden Martin and Larsen Thomas added three each and both Abel Leach and Asher Shultz made a free throw apiece. 

Quitman 69 West Ouachita 66 (OT) (Friday): Abel Leach exploded for a season high in points and along with Brayden Martin, both tallied 19 points each to help pace Quitman to the overtime victory and give West Ouachita only their second loss in 13 games. Brayden Smith added 10 points, including four in the overtime period. Larsen Thomas and Noah Leach chipped in with 8 and 7 points each, and both Gavyn Caskey and Amaurion Thompson, who made a “tri-fecta” in overtime, added three points each. Shane Reed rounded out the scoring with two points. 

Lady Wolverines fall twice

The matchup’s that the Quitman girls team faced at the Neil Kilgore Tournament couldn’t get much tougher as the Lady Wolverines fell to undefeated Haughton and Class 5A West Monroe to drop their record to 8-7 on the year. 

West Monroe 45 Quitman 40 (Thursday) Down by 12 heading into the 4th quarter, a furious rally that brought the Lady Wolverines to within two fell just short. Cali Deal lead Quitman with 18 points and Anna Leach finished with nine, all scored in the fourth period. Hallie Kate Pullig and Jaleigh Burns chipped in with six points each and Taylor Borland made a free throw. 

Haughton 50 Quitman 32 (Saturday) By opening up a 22-13 lead at the half, the 4th ranked team in Division 1 among “non-select” schools ran their record to a perfect 13-0 on the year. Anna Leach and Cali Deal did most of the scoring for Quitman with 15 and 13 points respectively. Emma Walker scored the other four points. 

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Jackson Parish is blessed to have many tremendously gifted and talented students in the area. On December 11th, the GT members of the Jackson Parish School District came together to perform a wonderful Christmas musical performance to the delight of those in attendance at Jonesboro-Hodge High School. 

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After four quarters of slugging it out in a back and forth contest to end in a tie, home standing Stanley outscored Weston 12-7 in overtime to take the victory. With the loss the Lady Wolves fell to 10-5 on the year while Stanley improved to 9-5 on the season. Weston outrebounded Stanley 57-31 but 25 turnovers spelled doom. Individually the Lady Wolves got a monster game from Briley Peterson who scored a season best 24 points and tied a season high in rebounds with 15. Carly Jo Griffin, who scored 13 points and Nadia Siadek, who added five, also cleaned the glass for 12 boards each, both representing season highs. Anslee Aldy chipped in with five and Carlynn Waters made a three pointer.

Stanley 70 Weston 35 (boys): The December skid continued for the Wolves as Stanley doubled up the score to give Weston their worst defeat of the season. With the 5th loss in 6 December games, Weston fell to 5-10 on the year while Stanley improved to 11-6 overall. No individual stats for the Wolves were available. 

 

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Cejay Colvin, representing the Weston High School FFA, continued the long tradition of competitive greatness by the local chapter this past Tuesday, December 10th when he won an Area 1 Development Event. By winning in the Gulf of Mexico Public Speaking contest, Colvin qualified for the Louisiana FFA State Leadership Development Event that will be held next Friday, December 20th. Also competing for WHS was Molly Beaubeouf who placed 4th in Prepared Public Speaking. 

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Talk about a Merry Christmas! The Jonesboro-Hodge High School Band received a tremendous Christmas gift this week through a donation made by Project Sacrificial Love, comprised of various donors in Jackson Parish.

On Friday, Mrs. Aleane B. Hayes, a retired English teacher and former Jackson Parish School Board member, along with Mrs. Alice Davis (retired JPSB music teacher), and Mr. Gerry Mims (current JPSB member) presented a check in the amount of $2,650 to Mr. Trey Porchay, Band Director and the band students.

 

 

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