Bobbie Ann Poland
January 23, 1956 – September 13, 2023

Bobbie Ann Poland was born January 23, 1956 to the late Nellie Poland Bradford. She gained her wings on September 13, 2023 at her daughters home in Ruston, Louisiana.

Bobbie Ann accepted Christ at an early age under the leadership of Pleasant Grove Baptist Church in Jonesboro, Louisiana and later became a member of New Hope Baptist Church in Ruston, Louisiana where she was a devoted member until her passing.

Bobbie, also known as “Momma B” to so many was full of spirit and full of life. She touched so many hearts because of the person she was. She loved being surrounded by family and friends. Everyone knew her for her smile, contagious laugh and encouraging words. Bobbie always had words of wisdom to pass on to everyone she encountered. She enjoyed the simplicity of life, such as cooking, music, and especially dancing. Traveling brought her the most joy.

Bobbie was preceded in death by her mother, Nellie Poland Bradford; her husband, Clem Johnson; three brothers: Otto Bradford, Louis Bradford, and Elijah Bradford; two sisters: Shirley Wesley and Clementine Campbell; aunt Rachel Bell and a nephew Charles Wesley, Jr.

She leaves to cherish her memories: three daughters Sharrone Poland (Dewayne Hayes) of Ruston, LA, Felsia Poland (Rick) of Arcadia, LA, and Chandris Poland (Thaddeus Jones) of Ruston, LA; nine grandchildren: Antonio, LaDassium, Travontai, LaRay, Tiaunna, Thaddeus Jr., Casicus, Chandier, Cameron; ten great grandchildren; a nephew Terrell Wesley (Carla) of Ruston, LA; a special friend Wilbur Kelly of Ruston, LA and a host of dear friends, nieces, cousins and other relatives.

Her celebration of life service was held on Saturday, September 23rd at the New Hope Baptist Church in Ruston with Interment following at the New Galilee Cemetery in Jonesboro under the direction of Paradise Funeral Home in Jonesboro. 

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There is only one first time that something takes place! No matter what it is it or who does it it is an important event to be recognized. Granted some “firsts” are more important that others. After all, in almost every case it isn’t brain surgery. 

But this time that exactly what it was!

And it was performed by a native of Jackson Parish.

Quitman High School alum, Doctor Jamie Toms, made medical history on Sunday, September 18th when he completed the first robotic brain surgery in North Louisiana At LSU Health Center in Shreveport. 

Toms also became the first doctor in the state to use the Globus Excelsius-GPS Robotic Navigation Platform for brain surgery. The Platform is designed to improve accuracy and patient care optimization through robotics and navigation. 

“We are so proud of Dr. Toms who continues to be a trailblazing faculty member providing cutting-edge care and educational experiences for our residents and students.” – LSU Health Shreveport

After graduating from Quitman High School in 2016, Toms received a Bachelor of Science in Animal Biology from Louisiana Tech University, where he graduated Summa Cum Laude. 

From there Toms earned his Doctor of Medicine from LSU Health Shreveport and completed his neurosurgery residency at Virginia Commonwealth University. He then completed a fellowship in stereotactic, functional, and epilepsy neurosurgery at Virginia Commonwealth University under Dr. Kathryn Holloway.

Along with his clinical practice, he is actively involved in both clinical and basic science research, and he holds a joint appointment with the Department of Neurosurgery and the Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Neuroscience. He has conducted extensive research in the use of deep brain stimulation in the treatment of dementia and movement disorders. He has also conducted research in stereotactic neurosurgery and intraoperative imaging.

Dr. Toms is an active member of the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, Congress of Neurological Surgeons, the American Society for Stereotactic and Functional Neurosurgery, the Southern Neurological Society and the American College of Surgeons.

He has presented nationally at various conferences, including annual meetings of the Southern Neurosurgical Society, the Congress of Neurological Surgeons, the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, and the American Medical Association. Dr. Toms has also published many peer-reviewed journal articles and serves as a reviewer for many publications, including Neurosurgery and Brain Injury.

 

Jonesboro-Hodge High School has announced that the Tigers football game at Lincoln Prep High in Grambling has been moved to Thursday, September 21st. Game time is still set for 7:00 pm.

Game Preview: Both JHHS and Lincoln Prep bring a 1-2 season record into the contest that will be played on the brand new school field located at 1453 West Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue in Grambling. 

Keys to Victory!

Play some defense! Never before in the long history of JHHS football has the Tigers given up so many points (128) in the first three games of the season. Granted all three games were against good teams but 42.67 points per game allowed is not acceptable. 

Execute on offense! JHHS has the size, depth and talent to score often if they will just execute their plays. The Tigers have been their own worst enemy so far this year. 

Stay alert! Missed assignments in virtually every phase of the game has been fatal to the Tigers chances for a win over the last two games. JHHS must keep their heads in the game.  

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Under the new administration of Mayor J. “Spike” Harris, the Town of Jonesboro has made significant and progressive strides over the past eight months through increased police protection and civic improvements. 

Now Mayor Harris and the Jonesboro Board of Aldermen are getting set to tackle the “elephant in the room” which is the financial shortcomings the town has faced for nearly a decade. 

This was made evident at the regularly scheduled Jonesboro Board of Aldermen meeting that was held on September 12th where discussion centered on possible changes in the ways utilities and public works are handled. 

“We have done a lot in a short period of time to improve the quality of life in our community,” said Harris. “Now we are turning our focus on ways to improve the town’s financial footing.”

This was an area that Harris and the Board of Aldermen wanted to address earlier in the year but was forced to put on hold until the final tabulations were received from the 2022 financial audit, which recently was released. 

“We formulated a plan to improve our financial situation early on but before we were able to implement it we had to first correct problems associated with the last two audit’s on the town,” said Harris. “Now that we have addressed those items we are ready to move forward in getting our town stable financially.”

Remedies to two major issues involving public works that have been major contributors to the financial shortcomings were presented to Aldermen members by Mayor Harris that should have an immediate impact. 

The first involves the charge the town of Jonesboro was paying to dispose of solid waste. After several meetings with the Jackson Parish Police Jury it has now been agreed to reduce disposal costs by nearly half. 

“We have been paying $45.00 per ton to dispose of our waste in the Jackson Parish Landfill,” explained Harris. “Through the cooperation of the Police Jury that will now be reduced to $23.85 per ton which provides a great relief to us.”

Harris went on to express his gratitude to the JPPJ for working with the town.

“It was a good gesture by the Police Jury to work with us on this expenditure,” said Harris. “I am very appreciative for their assistance in this and the way they continue to work with us to help make our community the best we can be.”

This marks the second time this calendar year the JPPJ has stepped up to help the Town of Jonesboro. Earlier in the year, the JPPJ agreed to pay the portion of “up front” money required for the Town of Jonesboro to receive a grant that led to the town being awarded the funding for the upcoming Sidewalk project that is slated to begin soon. 

The second improvement discussed involved a transition to a new utility billing system that will allow for an accurate measure of water being used by residents and businesses. 

“Utility payments for water usage is supposed to be a positive financial resource for the town,” detailed Harris. “Over the past several years the town has been losing a tremendous amount of money because the system didn’t work correctly.”

Harris further explained how the new system would work. 

“We are moving away from the computerized system that never worked properly to hire personnel who will read meters on site,” detailed Harris. “This will give us accurate readings on the usage.”

In other business three additions to the Jonesboro Police Department were made that is an example where “addition means subtraction.”

Jonesboro Assistant Police Chief Warren Johnson explained. 

“By adding Tyra White and Lugenia Anderson as Dispatchers and Anthony Dill as a Patrol Officer to part time positions this will reduce the amount of overtime that is being paid currently.” said Johnson. 

In final action, Louisiana government consultant Nnamdi Thompson addressed the panel of Robbie Siadek, Nia Evans-Johnson and Devin Flowers.  

“We are here to offer help with securing money from the state through grants and assistance with issues involving municipal bonds,” said Thompson.

Thompson gave an example of how they were already working for the town.

“In 2008 the town of Jonesboro was awarded 2.3 million dollars to fix water issues that had a pay back date of 2049” said Thompson. “We are working to get that term shortened for the town.” 

 

 

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NOTE: The Jackson Parish Sports Hall of Fame induction banquet will be held on October 7th at the Family Life Center of First Baptist Church in Jonesboro. Six former greats will be enshrined as the Class of 2023 with three more being recognized for Outstanding Achievement and Service. Leading up to gala event the Jackson Parish Journal will run a special feature on each of the inductees and honorees. This Edition: Charles Andrews

Since it’s inception in 2008, close to one hundred athletes have been enshrined in the Jackson Parish Sports Hall of Fame for their outstanding athletic achievements. The majority earned their place in the hallowed hall primarily due to their exploits in primarily one sport. There are a special few that excelled in more than one sport. 

Then there is Charles Andrews.

He excelled in them all. 

One would be hard pressed to find another in JHHS athletic lore who possesses the resume of the multi-talented Andrews, who from 1982 – 1985 led the Tigers to great heights in virtually every sport that Jonesboro-Hodge competed in. 

Former Houston Oiler and New Orleans Saints head coach Bum Phillips once said when referring to legendary NFL running back Earl Campbell  – “He may not be the best that ever played at the position, but it sure don’t take long to call the roll.”

The same is true for Andrews – only it can be related to his football, basketball, track and baseball talent. 

Andrews gave the first glimpse of his tremendous game changing ability as a sophomore football player when he returned an interception for a 76 yard touchdown which was the longest defensive score from scrimmage that season.

Then in 1983 Andrews did something that has still never been matched. In the district opening contest against Coushatta, Andrews returned an interception for a score, caught a touchdown and threw for another. His senior year, he was voted the Offensive MVP of district 3-2A. 

Football was just one of the sports Andrews excelled in though.

In basketball Andrews was also a dominating force. During his final two years of varsity experience JHHS won two district championships, including going undefeated in district play for the first time in nearly twenty years. Twice the Tigers reached the Class 2A quarterfinals and the 31-3 record compiled his senior season (1984-85) still ranks as second best single season winning percentage. 

Spring sports were also bailiwick’s of Andrews exceptional talent.

Possessing a cannon right arm, Andrews posted a 9-0 record and an incredible 0.60 ERA in district play and pitched JHHS to a district title his senior season while earning All-State designation. In track he set a school record in the triple jump during the 1985 season that still stands today. 

Were it not for a career ending and life threatening medical condition incurred while at NLU where was a scholarship football player that has him still wheelchair bound today there is no telling how far Andrews sports career would have taken him. 

There is one thing that is an absolute though. What he did while at JHHS has taken him into the hallowed ground of being inducted in the Jackson Parish Sports Hall of Fame. 

For most that would be where the story ends.

Not in this case though. 

The courage and resilience Charles displays every day just to stay alive now resonates as strong as his desire was to be the best athlete he could be. His uncompromising “will to win” he displayed in athletics as a young man is reflected every day as he refuses to let his unfortunate circumstance dampen his spirit and zeal.

See below for a testament to Andrews as given by Jonesboro Mayor Dr. James “Spike” Harris. 

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The Jackson Parish Library Board held a Special Called meeting this past Thursday primarily to discuss the disposition of two controversial books that certain individuals had asked to be removed.

In additional action, board members Paula Essmeier, Judy Cooper, Lisa Nunn, Ann Standley, Vicki Jenkins, Robin Tew, Carol Massey, and ex-officio Police Juror, Amy Magee, agreed to sale the old bookmobile to the highest bidder and acknowledge upcoming training dates and trustee meeting.

The books in question were Families, Families and Families and London Séance Society. Each was asked to be removed from the shelf due to their content which some felt was not appropriate. 

The verdict is in.

The books will remain on the shelf.

Only it wasn’t really the Library Board that made the decision to keep them available. Rather it was the guidelines set forth by 2023 LA Acts #436, which was enacted as LA R.S.25:225 to assist parish and municipal libraries in the implementation of this law.

Act #436 puts forth procedures that gives public libraries the ability to censor inappropriate reading material and limit the access of minors to sexually explicit materials. It also goes into detail on what is to be considered as “inappropriate” and “sexually explicit material.” 

The issue about Families, Families, and Families was first brought to the attention of the Library Board in June when a few parents said it carried a veiled reference to LGBTQ beliefs.

Knowing the sensitivity of the situation, board members reviewed the book and then sought advice from officials of the Louisiana State Library and the Attorney General.  

What was received was a letter from the State Library of Louisiana, who provided Act 436 Implementation Guidance after receiving counsel from the state Attorney General’s office. 

“Selecting materials that serve the needs of our community is a vital part of operating a library. The Board of Trustees takes this responsibility very seriously and has established a materials selection policy for selecting materials to appeal to a community of diverse opinions, tastes and beliefs.” – State Library of Louisiana

Neither of the books in question met the guidelines that would allow for censorship of the material. 

 

 

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Both Jackson Parish schools were on the road Tuesday evening with both the girls and boys teams from Weston coming home victorious from Calvin and Quitman splitting four games at Choudrant.

Girls Games

Weston 21 Calvin 16: It was the “Carly” show for the Lady Wolves as in Carly Jo Griffin and Carlynn Waters, who scored all but four of Weston’s points. Griffin led the way with 10 points all in the first half on the strength of a pair of three pointers that helped pace Weston to a 14-7 lead. Waters would add 7, including four of Weston’s 7 second half points. Keely Davis tallied two and Ada-Claire Tidwell chipped in with a free throw to round out the locals scoring. Weston climbed to 12-5 this season with the hard fought win. 

Quitman 27 Choudrant 7 (6th/7th grade game): Sophia Kliebert exploded for 12 points in two periods of play to lead the 6/7 grade girls to the convincing victory. Ella Simonelli added six, Kynleigh Leach four, Bella Caskey hit a three pointer and Amelia Stagss tallied tow as Quitman allowed Choudrant to score 7 points in the first quarter before shutting out the home team the rest of the way. 

Quitman 37 Choudrant 19: Allie Robertson poured in 16 points to lead 8 Quitman players who scored after being shut out in the first quarter. The good news was that Choudrant managed only three in the first frame before Quitman dominated the final three quarters by a 37-16 margin. Hallie Kate Pullig scored six, Lily Duck finished with four and London Burk, Braelyn Patton, Brenna Lamkin, and Kinsley Ponder all tallied two points each. Klea Blalock pitched in a free throw to round out the scoring. 

Boys Games

Weston 25 Calvin 19: With the Wolves down 11-8 heading into the second half, Leyton Younse exploded for 10 of his game high 13 points in the final two quarters to help rally Weston to the hard earned victory. Dawson Griffin made a first quarter three pointer for the only other basket made by the Wolves who won the contest at the free throw line. Bryce Tolar made four from the stripe and  Eli Henderson canned three as the Wolves made ten free throws compared to only five baskets. The victory improved the Wolves to 5-8 on the year. 

Choudrant 27 Quitman 24 (6th/7th Grade): Choudrant outscored Quitman 13-8 in the final frame to reverse a one point Wolverine lead after three quarters. Lucas Leach, who led Quitman with 10 points did all he could to bring home a win scoring all of the Wolverine points in the fourth quarter. Caden Jackson scored all six of his points in the second quarter and Kobe Williams all of his four in the first to pace Quitman to a 14-10 lead at the half. Tucker Goss and Luke Rowe added two apiece in the contest. 

Choudrant 46 Quitman 31: It was the same old story when these two got together for the final time this season. Five times Quitman has met Choudrant this season. Five times the Aggies have come away victorious. Jack Thomas led six Wolverine players that scored with ten points followed Hayden Seymore who ended with eight and Kaleb Maxwell’s five. Joseph Delaney finished with four and both Eli Jackson and Mathew Odom tallied two points each.  

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The scene from The Andy Griffith Show, in black-and-white of course, is one you could have starred in at most any time this past Scorching Summer of 2023.

Two chairs on the wide sidewalk outside Floyd’s Barber Shop. Floyd sits in the one nearest his shop’s door, on the left of your TV screen. He is blank-faced and lazily working a wicker fan in front of his face. Up walks Sheriff Andy Taylor, who takes a seat and, as he crosses his legs, says, “Howdy, Floyd.”

Floyd, with no small amount of effort, the heat evident on a face that, even in black-and-white, is obviously ashen: “92.”

Andy: “It feels it.”

Floyd: “I just looked at the thermometer over the door (points his wicker fan that way). You know what it says?”

Andy: “92?”

Floyd, slack-jawed and fanning, a folded newspaper, no doubt The Mayberry Gazette, resting on his lap under his other hand: “92. Like an oven. Hot! Ohhh … it’s HOT.”

Andy: “Well, like Mark Twain said, ‘Everybody talks about the weather, but nobody does anything about it.’”

Floyd, stops fanning and looks at Andy: “He say that?”

Andy: “Yep.”

Floyd: “I thought Calvin Coolidge said that.”

Andy: “No. No Floyd. Calvin Coolidge didn’t say that.”

Floyd: “What’d Calvin Coolidge say?”

Andy: “I don’t know.”

Floyd, fanning again, then turning back to Andy: “You sure Mark Twain didn’t get that from Calvin Coolidge?”

Andy: “No Floyd. Mark Twain lived before Calvin Coolidge.”

Floyd, sitting up a bit and leaning toward Andy: “Oh … he COULDN’T have gotten it from him. NO … but it’s HOT.”

And so it went, all summer in Mayberry over in Carolina back in the early 1960s — and all summer here in North Louisiana.

Funny deal about the weather. It gets hot around here and few seem to remember that it is always hot in the summer here. Some are cooler than others, but they’re all hot.

Summer of 1982, I had the privilege of helping build the bypass in Camden, Arkansas. (It’s a heckuva bypass, if you’re ever up that way.) My job was to walk in front of the grader — the big tractor that has the smoothing blade — and knock the dirt off stakes, driven at equal heights, so the driver could see them and make the dirt level for the rebar and pavement that’s to come. There is not a lot of shade in roadwork, as there are few trees in the middle of roads. And it was more than 100 degrees 21 days straight.

That was — clears throat — 40 years ago.

It’s always been hot. Next summer, it’s going to be hot again. (Just a guess.)

But you’ve made it! Hold out ’til Saturday and you’ve made it to autumn!

This is being typed on an evening where the outside temperature is mid-70s as we head into October, and what a fine month it is. October might just be the best of all the months — if it didn’t mean cold weather was coming.

And then what will you and Andy and Floyd talk about? Probably the weather. And possibly, during an ice storm, wish for a day like one we complained about in July, wicker fan in hand.

At least that’s what Mark Twain said … or maybe it was Calvin Coolidge.

Contact Teddy at teddy@latech.edu

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Hayden Davis and Maddox Duck has made many memories over the past couple of years as fishing partners representing Quitman High School. They have tasted much success with several top finishes in tournaments and even winning the Big Bass award at the Louisiana State championships. 

Casting their lures in lakes and rivers from as close as Caney Lake in Jackson Parish to as far away as the Upper Mississippi River Delta in Wisconsin the pair has had always had a couple of goals in mind. 

Winning a Northeast Louisiana High School Anglers (NELHSA) Tournament Trail event and then claiming the season championship.

After their performance on the Ouachita River on September 16th, one goal has been achieved and the other is off to a great start to being reached. 

On a rough river that allowed only 36 of the 54 boats entered in the season opening NELHSA event to land fish and just three to catch the limit, the QHS anglers bested them all by weighing in five fish for a total of 8.47 pounds. Waylon Sullivan and Jake Vail of representing Quitman Junior High snagged a 24th place finish

It was also a successful tourney for the two junior high teams representing Gracepoint Christian of Jonesboro as Brody Halbrook / Brendan Newton came in 13th overall and Jaxon Daniels / Gunner Garrett came in 32nd place. Lane Diffey and Remington Gregory led the Weston High School contention with a 22nd place finish

 

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The selections of the Student Athletes of the Week at Jonesboro-Hodge, Quitman, and Weston High School for the week of September 18-22 have been announced.

The honorees are chosen by select members of the faculty and staff from each school after best exemplifying what it means to be a true student-athlete through academic achievement and athletic accomplishment. Each recipient is given a commemorative T-Shirt by the Jackson Parish Hospital, who sponsors the award.

Student-Athlete of the Week

Brenna Lamkin (8th Grade) – Basketball player for Quitman Junior High 

Braxton Brown (8th Grade) – Basketball player for Weston Junior High

Jerriona Leonard (12th Grade) – Cheerleader for Jonesboro-Hodge High School

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The Jackson Parish School District (JPSD) invites parents and students to join with them in the celebration of Child Welfare and Attendance Week that takes place September 25-29. In promotion of the theme “School Attendance Matters” all JPSD schools participation activities scheduled for each day, Monday – Friday. 

Making it Monday – Show up for school wearing your favorite athletic gear!

On Time Tuesday – Show up to school on time dressed like a professional!

Glow Wednesday – Let’s Glow with being present and on time for school. Dress like your favorite cartoon character or movie!

Time-Out Thursday – Call Time-Out on truancy. Dress up like a referee!

Fun Day Friday – Show up wearing your favorite graphic tee with blue jeans!

School dress code applies. Remember nothing inappropriate, too short, or offensive allowed. Those who do not participate in Attendance Week are to wear school uniform. 

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NOTE: Football is sport where the majority of fans may know the names and numbers of the players but seldom see their faces and get to know them personally. In an effort to introduce the members of the 2023 JHHS football team, Jackson Parish Journal correspondent, Clay Williams, presents a question and answer interview series with Tiger players. Today – Jaylin Barnes

Meet The Tigers

What’s your name, grade, number, and position?
Jaylin Barnes, 12th, #20, Cornerback

What are your hobbies outside of football?
I play basketball for the school, and I like hanging out with my friends.

Do you have a favorite pregame song or artist?
I listen to a lot of NBA Youngboy, and I have some friends that make music too.

What is your favorite subject in school?
Social Studies, because I like exploring about the world and learning about all kinds of history.

Who would you say is your biggest motivation in life?
My parents, because they always push me and tell me to keep going.

What do you think are your biggest strengths you bring to the team?
I feel that I am good at being a helpful teammate and encouraging them when they are down.

Are there any college or NFL players that you take inspiration from?
Travis Hunter and Cormani McClain, who both play for Coach Prime at Colorado. I love their explosiveness and the way they make plays on the ball.

What are your thoughts about the team’s play so far this season?
I think we need to step up our play, so we can ensure we get into the playoffs.

What are you wanting from the team this week?
Honestly, just to get a win. To do that, we need to be disciplined and listen to the coaches.

Any advice for younger players on the team or at the junior high?
Don’t give up and always keep going, even when things get tough.

What are your plans after graduation?
I want to go to college and play football, but if that does not work, I’d like to start my own clothing brand. If I had a choice, I’d choose to attend Grambling State.

Lastly, what are your goals this season for yourself, and the team?
For myself, I’d like to get at least 4 interceptions. For the team, let’s make it to the dome!

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Preparing students for the future is something that every school administration, staff and faculty strives for. At Jonesboro Hodge High School that desire became a reality this past week in a couple of unique, interesting and educational ways.  

Mrs. Carpenter’s class was all smiles as they received their first “paychecks”! At the beginning of the year each student applied and interviewed for a classroom job like Clerk, Custodian, or Banker. After being hired they signed job contracts and received on-the-job training in their individual positions.

They have worked hard and now it has paid off!

The students got paid in “classroom currency, which were simulated checks that included having taxes withheld. With this they will play bills like workplace rent, utilities, and groceries. They also filled out deposit slips, deposited their checks into the Central Classroom Bank and updated their bank logs. This simulation will continue throughout the year and reflect real-world conditions to prepare them for independent life after high school.

JHHS students also learned about what awaits them at college. Freshman Academy students visited LA Tech University this past week to learn more about what it takes to get into college and the opportunities it brings. Perhaps just as important is being taught to prepare now for opportunity later.

One area that was really interesting to the 9th graders was the La Tech Tenant Ring. This is an area that contains a large circle with spoke like words that outlines the 12 tenets important in the pursuit of excellence – Confidence, Excellence, Commitment, Knowledge, Integrity, Respect, Leadership, Loyalty, Enthusiasm, Caring, Hope and Pride.

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Have you ever heard of an Electric Flowerpot? Akiba Horowitz was born in Minsk, Russia in 1856. At the young age of fifteen, Akiba moved to Berlin, Germany where he studied liquor distillation. In 1891, Akiba immigrated to the United States. Upon entering the country, Akiba changed his name to something more American. He called himself Conrad Hubert. Conrad, now 35 years old, needed to find work immediately. In New York, Conrad operated a cigar store, a boarding house, a restaurant, and a jewelry store. Conrad was not satisfied until he began operating a novelty shop.

All things dealing with electrical power following the invention of the light bulb were in fashion. Conrad was a tinkerer. During his lifetime, Conrad’s patented inventions included “the first automatic electric self-starter for automobiles, …the first exact amount check protector, the autoped,” and an electric gas lighter.

Joshua Lionel Cowen was an inventor as well. Joshua had invented the electric doorbell and the electric fan, both of which initially failed to find a market. People complained about the protracted ring of the doorbell, and the fan produced only the slightest breeze. His most successful product, which was the most popular item Conrad sold in his novelty shop, was his battery-powered light up tie tacks.

Joshua and Conrad had numerous discussions about their ideas for inventions. During one such conversation, Joshua told Conrad about one of his most recent inventions, the electric flowerpot. The contraption was made up of a battery within a paper tube with a light bulb at one end. The tube was mounted in the center of a flowerpot. Once the battery was switched on, the light illuminated the plants in the flowerpot. Joshua had patented his electric flowerpot, but he was unsure of its marketability. Conrad had faith in the invention and convinced Joshua to sell him the patent.

Conrad manufactured a large number of electric flowerpots, added them to his inventory, and began advertising. In the summer of 1894, citizens in Buffalo, New York held a Fourth of July fireworks competition. Among the prizes were American flags, balloons, packages of fireworks, toy cap pistols, small battery-powered lights, and Conrad’s electric flowerpots. Despite his best efforts, the electric flowerpot was a failure.

Conrad had a surplus of electric flowerpots which were in no danger of being sold. David Misell, an employee of Conrad’s novelty shop, tinkered with the electric flowerpot to see if he could help Conrad create something marketable from its parts. David had previously invented a wooden-cased signal light and a bicycle light. David and Conrad separated the tube and bulb from the flowerpot. They lengthened the tube so they could fit three “D” batteries inside it, and added a brass reflector under the light bulb. Finally, they had a product that Conrad thought he could sell.

They filed a patent application for the “Electric Device” in March of 1898. The paperwork listed David as the device’s inventor and Conrad as a witness. The patent was awarded in January of 1899. Because David was an employee of Conrad’s, he assigned the patent rights to the device to Conrad’s novelty company. Conrad added the device to the inventory of his novelty shop. The device sold very well, but the public had just one complaint.

The “D” batteries would only illuminate the light bulb for a short time before the customer had to replace the batteries. Due to the device’s short battery life, customers said the device could only produce a flash of light.

In many English-speaking countries, the device is generally referred to as a torch. In the United States, Conrad’s customers gave the device a nickname that stuck. They called it the Flashlight.

 

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Following multiple citizen complaints from around the state, Louisiana State Troopers wish to make the public aware of a current phone scam. Scammers are fraudulently using the authority of Louisiana State Police in an effort to obtain information and money from victims.

These impersonators are reportedly contacting the phones of potential victims by using a call that gives the appearance of originating from a phone number belonging to Louisiana State Police. The complainants have stated that the caller is pretending to be law enforcement and attempts to gain personal information and (or) money from the victim over the phone.

Troopers stress that citizens should never give unsolicited callers any personal information, and the Louisiana State Police would never ask for any type of personal identifying information, payment or monetary donation over the phone.

Citizens wishing to report suspected fraudulent calls can contact the Louisiana State Analytical and Fusion Center (LA-SAFE) at 225-925-4192. The Louisiana State Police online reporting system is also available to the public through a convenient and secure reporting form that is submitted to the appropriate investigators. Citizens can access the form by visiting the LA-SAFE website here and report the activity.

Here’s some advice on spotting scams and avoiding them, from the Federal Trade Commission:

Four Signs That It’s a Scam

1. Scammers PRETEND to be from an organization you know.

Scammers often pretend to be contacting you on behalf of the government. They might use a real name, like the FTC, Social Security Administration, IRS, or Medicare , or make up a name that sounds official. Some pretend to be from a business you know, like a utility company , a tech company , or even a charity asking for donations. They use technology to change the phone number that appears on your caller ID. So the name and number you see might not be real.

2. Scammers say there’s a PROBLEM or a PRIZE.

They might say you’re in trouble with the government . Or you owe money . Or someone in your family had an emergency . Or that there’s a virus on your computer. Some scammers say there’s a problem with one of your accounts and that you need to verify some information. Others will lie and say you won money in a lottery or sweepstakes but have to pay a fee to get it.

3. Scammers PRESSURE you to act immediately.

Scammers want you to act before you have time to think. If you’re on the phone , they might tell you not to hang up so you can’t check out their story. They might threaten to arrest you, sue you, take away your driver’s or business license, or deport you. They might say your computer is about to be corrupted.

4. Scammers tell you to PAY in a specific way.

They often insist that you can only pay by using cryptocurrency , wiring money through a company like MoneyGram or Western Union, using a payment app , or putting money on a gift card and then giving them the numbers on the back of the card. Some will send you a check (that will later turn out to be fake), then tell you to deposit it and send them money.

How To Avoid a Scam

Block unwanted calls and text messages. Take steps to block unwanted calls and to filter unwanted text messages .

Don’t give your personal or financial information in response to a request that you didn’t expect. Honest organizations won’t call, email, or text to ask for your personal information, like your Social Security, bank account, or credit card numbers.

If you get an email or text message from a company you do business with and you think it’s real, it’s still best not to click on any links. Instead, contact them using a website you know is trustworthy. Or look up their phone number. Don’t call a number they gave you or the number from your caller ID.

Resist the pressure to act immediately. Honest businesses will give you time to make a decision. Anyone who pressures you to pay or give them your personal information is a scammer.

Know how scammers tell you to pay. Never pay someone who insists that you can only pay with cryptocurrency , a wire transfer service like Western Union or MoneyGram, a payment app , or a gift card . And never deposit a check and send money back to someone.

Stop and talk to someone you trust. Before you do anything else, tell someone — a friend, a family member, a neighbor — what happened. Talking about it could help you realize it’s a scam.

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Quitman Elementary representatives Clay Burton, Anna Pardue and Joseph Delaney took first place in their respective divisions at the Quitman Invitational Cross Country meet held this past Saturday.

Barton and Delaney won the grades 3-4 and 5-6 boys races with Pardue taking gold in the 5-6 girls competition. Additional podium placers (top three) were Quitman runners: Levi Norred – 2nd in K-2 boys, Abby Sullivan – 3rd in 3-4 girls, Asher Norred – 3rd in 3-4 boys, Audrina Martin – 3rd in 5-6 girls and Morgan Cheatwood – 3rd in varsity girls.

Twenty-two local participants from either Quitman or Weston finished in the top ten over the ten races ran at the Jackson Parish Recreation Department Sports Complex. 

Total Results of Jackson Parish Runners

K-2 Girls

8th – Madi Spillman (Quitman)
9th – Eva Martin (Quitman)
27th – Karli Bradford (Quitman)
28th – Charlotte Bradford (Quitman)

K-2 Boys

2nd – Levi Norred (Quitman)
4th – Carter Hall (Weston)
14th – Jake Patton (Quitman)
17th – Dominic Hodnett (Quitman)
21st – Kole Burton (Quitman)
24th – Reese Altheimer (Quitman)
29th – Jeremiah Jones (Weston)
31st – Duke Henderson (Weston)
32nd – Sam Jones (Weston)
37th – Baylor Garrett (Quitman)
38th – Jess Potts (Quitman)
39th – Matthew Buchan (Quitman)
50th – Kolton Laffitte (Quitman)

3-4 Girls 

3rd – Abby Sullivan (Quitman)
5th – Harley Jordan (Quitman)
7th – Henley House (Weston)
11th – Miriam Shuler (Weston)
19th – Aubree Allen (Weston)
20th – Justice Faulkner (Weston)
23rd – Raegan Bell (Quitman)
42nd – Hillary Foster (Quitman)
46th – Myla Puth (Weston)

3-4 Boys

1st – Clay Burton (Quitman)
3rd – Asher Norred (Quitman)
11th – Kaine Stasson (Weston)
12th – James Lewis (Weston)
24th – Easton Buchan (Quitman)
27th – Klay Roge (Quitman)
28th – Eli Jones (Weston)
39th – Mayson Terral (Quitman)
50th – Jax Davis (Weston)
53rd – Maddox Naron (Quitman)

5-6 Girls

1st – Anna Pardue (Quitman)
3rd – Audrina Martin (Quitman)
8th – Karlee Altheimer (Quitman)
11th – Elliott Savage (Quitman)
13th – Bella Caskey (Quitman)
15th – Raelynn Cox (Quitman)

5-6 Boys

1st – Joseph Delaney (Quitman)
7th – Carson Savanna (Quitman)
8th – Johnny Caldwell (Quitman)
10th – Shepard Norred (Quitman)
25th – Josiah Ramsey (Quitman)
32nd – Brody Garrett (Quitman)

7-8 Girls

6th – Addi Faber (Quitman)
7th – Sunni Altheimer (Quitman)
9th – Teyton Naron (Quitman)
14th – Elsie Flynn (Weston)
17th – Sophie Droddy (Weston)
18th – Skyleigh Webb (Quitman)

7-8 Boys

4th – Joseph Delaney (Quitman)
10th – Shepard Norred (Quitman)

Varsity Girls

3rd – Morgan Cheatwood (Quitman)
7th – Megan Kelly (Quitman)
12th – Tessa Watlington (Weston)
15th – Lindsey Woods (Quitman)
21st – Hadassa Tilley (Quitman)

Varsity Boys

5th – Gage Horton (Quitman)
12th – Braden Smith (Quitman)
24th – Jayden Harts (Quitman)
27th – Nathan Harvey (Quitman)
35th – Emory Caskey (Weston)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Registration is now being taken for the annual Arise Conference scheduled for October 20-21, 2023 at North Hodge Assembly of God (NHAG), located at 5254 Quitman Hwy. in North Hodge. 

Keith Stanley of NHAG will lead the Praise and Worship with Evangelist Renee Moore bringing the word of the Lord and anointing of the Holy Ghost through her presentation of UNSHAKEABLE, based on the scriptures found in Hebrews 12:27.

The Friday, October 20th, evening service will begin at 7:00 p.m. with fellowship immediately following. The session on Saturday, October 21st, will begin with breakfast being served at 9:00 a.m. in the fellowship hall with the worship service following at 10:00 a.m. Evangelist Moore will also be ministering both regularly scheduled morning & evening church services on Sunday, October 22nd.

There will be door prizes given away throughout the conference and vendors will be on site during the fellowship hours.

There is no registration fee, but please pre register if you plan to attend. Groups are welcome & encouraged!

Conference T-Shirts Available

ATTENTION LADIES!!! Below is the link to the online store to order your NHAG ARISE Conference 2023 TSHIRTS!!! The store will be open until September 24th. The shirts will be distributed at the conference. Please message Michele McDonald at (318)245-5370 with any questions you may have.

http://tommystees.com/NHAG_23/shop/home?fbclid=IwAR3EMuzwCJ2LkbhXhC9bdzcRIdg_Da6s97wWJa8MkOc4OQFPycIyXfgOiqc

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Still Kickin’

Well, ain’t that the truth?

‘The ole’ gray mare, she ain’t what she used to be.’ (Folk song/Author uncertain)

She ain’t; we ain’t. Aging takes away what used to be and leaves wanna’ be in its place. I climbed up the hill but there ain’t no way I can climb back down.

That ole’ gray mare once took hills in her stride. That was long ago…

She’s old but she’s still kickin.’ Good for her.

Kick up your heals and give God the glory!

“Now Peter and John were going up to the temple at the ninth hour, the hour of prayer. And a man who had been unable to walk from birth was being carried, whom they used to set down every day at the gate of the temple which is called Beautiful, in order for him to beg for charitable gifts from those entering the temple grounds. When he saw Peter and John about to go into the temple grounds, he began asking to receive a charitable gift. But Peter, along with John, looked at him intently and said, ‘Look at us!’ And he gave them his attention, expecting to receive something from them. But Peter said, ‘I do not have silver and gold, but what I do have I give to you: In the name of Jesus Christ the Nazarene, walk!’ And grasping him by the right hand, he raised him up; and immediately his feet and his ankles were strengthened. And leaping up, he stood and began to walk; and he entered the temple with them, walking and leaping and praising God (Acts 3:1-8 NASB).”

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Albert Zehr (Jonesboro, LA) – Execution of Sentence
Jennifer L. Branch (Goldonna, LA) – Possession of Schedule II, Expried MVI, Expired License Plate, Stop Sign Violation
Brittany L. Carnley (Hodge, LA) – Warrant for Possession of Schedule II CDS
Japhus L. Dooley Briggs (Chatham,LA) – Disturbing the Peace
Van Woodel (Robeline, LA) – Warrant on Domestic Abuse Battery Charge
Percy Williams (Ruston, LA) – Disturbing the Peace, Resisting an Officer x2
Casey R. Stover (Jonesboro, LA) – Burn Ban Violation
Jo Jo Gray (Jonesboro, LA) – Execution of Sentence, Tail Light Violation, Driving Under Suspension
Linda Heidleberg (Elm Grove, LA) – Possession of Schedule II, Violation of Recycle Dump
Ronald Adams (West Monroe, LA) – Remaining after Forbidden, Resisting an Officer, Simple Battery, Disturbing the Peace
Ariel Magee (Jonesboro, LA) – Remaining after Forbidden  

This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named or shown in photographs or video as suspects in a criminal investigation, or arrested and charged with a crime, have not been convicted of any criminal offense and are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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

BUSINESS SERVICES

Brookwood Homes – Used and Repo Mobile Homes as low as $10,000.00. Call 318-644-2226.

AFFIDAVIT OF SUCCESSION

 

 

 

Shannon Nicole Masters 
October 15, 1979 – September 17, 2023

Shannon Nicole Masters, age 43, passed away on Sunday, September 17, 2023 at Jackson Parish Hospital in Jonesboro, Louisiana. Shannon was a 1998 graduate of Jonesboro-Hodge High School and attended vocational technical college. She worked in admissions for the Jackson Parish Hospital. She enjoyed keeping track and conversing with her friends and family on Facebook.

Shannon is survived by her father, James O. “Sonny” Masters; mother, Betsy (Tipton) Masters; brother, Shawn Masters; paternal grandmother, Dorothy (Boddie) Masters; as well as a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her paternal grandfather, Oliver S. “Bo” Masters; maternal grandfather, Rev. Harry W. Tipton; and maternal grandmother, Betsy (Reeves) Tipton.

Her funeral service will be held at McDonald Baptist Church on Wednesday, September 20, 2023 at 1:00 PM with Bro. Randy Dark and Bro. Elvis Griffin officiating. Burial will follow in Evergreen Baptist Church Cemetery in Bernice, Louisiana under the direction of Southern-Edmonds Funeral Home.

There will be a special reserved section at the funeral for the Jonesboro-Hodge High School “Class of 1998.”

Serving the family as pallbearers will be Ray Duck, Chad Hall, Bubba Hall, Rod Potts, Mickey Martin and Cliff Hampton. Honorary pallbearers will be Virgil Davis and Steve Williams.

Barbara Jane Alston
November 29, 1955 – September 6, 2023

Barbara Jane Alston passed away on September 6, 2023 in Jonesboro, Louisiana. She was 67 years old. She loved her grandchildren dearly and she was a very hard worker. Barbara enjoyed playing games on her tablet and she was a huge Dallas Cowboys fan.

She is survived by her children, Tanya Curtis, Steven Tucker, Sr. and wife, Tiffany; grandchildren, Erin Tucker, Desmond Tucker, Damian Tucker, Savanaha Tucker and Steven Tucker, Jr.; siblings, Joyce Wood, Brenda Braden, Ernest Windsor, James Flynt and Trisha Windsor.

Barbara was preceded in death by her parents, Russell and Shirley (Boswell) Windsor; brothers, Dennis Windsor and Allen Windsor.

As per Barbara’s wishes, she was cremated. Her family plans to have a memorial service to honor her memory in the spring of 2024. Details will be announced at a later date. Barbara will be buried in Trinity Memorial Gardens in Waldorf, Maryland.

 

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JACKSON PARISH (KTVE/KARD) — On September 15, 2023, the Office of Juvenile Justice (OJJ) transferred all youth out of the West Feliciana Center for Youth located on the grounds of the Angola Louisiana State Penitentiary to the Jackson Parish Jail in Jonesboro. After the District Court ruling last week, OJJ staff made contact with local officials in Jackson Parish who opened a new juvenile justice facility in July 2023.

According to officials, the new local facility, which is already serving youth in local juvenile justice programs, has the capacity to temporarily house OJJ youth while work continues on the new state-run Swanson secure care facility. Officials will reportedly work alongside local officials to ensure that OJJ youth housed in Jackson Parish continue to receive rehabilitative services and care that follow state and federal laws and regulations.

OJJ intends to move forward with our appeal of the recent ruling by the U.S. District Court. OJJ continues to disagree with the court’s ruling, which we believe contained several findings about the conditions at the West Feliciana Center for Youth that are at odds with the facts. The West Feliciana Center for Youth was a necessary, but temporary solution to address serious security issues at OJJ facilities across the state that threatened the safety of staff, community members, and youth in our care. The youth who were temporarily housed there received targeted rehabilitative services and care from hardworking OJJ staff, who took extraordinary measures to ensure the facility could successfully serve the youth. – Office of Juvenile Justice

In 2022, the legislature passed, and Gov. John Bel Edwards signed, Act 693 into law, which created a tiered system of low-risk, moderate-risk, and high-risk juveniles within OJJ’s secure care facilities. OJJ’s long-term plan is to transfer all youth needing intensive therapeutic services to the new Swanson Center for Youth at Monroe, which is a Tier 1 secure care facility that is scheduled to open later in 2023.

(Clay Williams) After falling to Class 5A West Ouachita on the road last week, Jonesboro-Hodge came back home to welcome 2-0, Class 3A Bunkie, during week three. Sadly, for the Tigers, the visiting Panthers would come into Caldwell-Peacock Stadium and play an almost flawless first half of football.

J-Hodge kicked off to begin the contest, and quickly forced the Panthers into a 3rd down situation, something the Tiger defense would do six times during the first half. Bunkie’s QB, Dillon Compton, would convert it on a QB keeper for 25 yards, and then he would soon find the end zone later in the drive to put Bunkie ahead 7-0 early in the 1st quarter.

Looking to catch the Panthers off guard on the Tigers opening drive, head coach Terrance Blankenship used a two QB system, alternating senior Symeon Malone and sophomore Dakota Knox as the signal callers.

One play saw Knox throw for a 1st down, the next play saw Malone take a QB
keeper 30 yards. The Tigers used this unique offensive strategy to move all the way down the field, and eventually set up a pivotal 4th down at the 1-yard line. With Knox at QB, he rolled out looking for an open receiver, but was brought down by a Panther pass rusher.

Bunkie started the ensuing drive set up on their own 5-yard line, and once again found themselves facing a third and long situation. This time the Panthers ran a WR screen, and the WR broke numerous tackles and rumbled all the way into the end zone for a 76-yard touchdown.

The Tigers responded with a 10 play, 54-yard scoring drive, capped off by Malone finding his way into the end zone for his third rushing touchdown of the season to bring JHHS to within 13-6.

It looked like the tide had turned for JHHS as on the ensuing kickoff, Bunkie made seemingly their only mistake of the night by fumbling the return and setting up the Tigers on the Bunkie 32-yard line. Four plays later, J-Hodge gave the ball back to the Panthers after a 4th down pass went through two receivers hands to fall incomplete.

Bunkie would go on to score on their next three possessions to take a 34-6 halftime lead. Perhaps remembering the 51-0 thrashing the Tigers handed out two years ago, Bunkie showed no signs of taking their foot off the gas, recovering an onside kick to start the second half and then scoring four plays later. The Panthers ran three more offensive plays in the game, that was played with a running clock the entire second half, two of which were touchdowns.

A bright spot in the contest was the discovery of senior Karmekizik Barber’s ability as a running back. Forced into duty due to Chance Leonard leaving in the third quarter due to a leg injury, Barber carried the ball four times for 69 yards, including a 61 yard jaunt that led to Malone finding senior wideout Da’Marious Burns in the back of the end zone making the final score 54-12 as the Tigers closed out the game on a high point.

Jonesboro-Hodge falls to 1-2 on the season, with their second consecutive loss to a school in a higher classification, while Bunkie improved to 3-0 on the year. The Tigers will be back on the road again this Friday, September 22nd, when they take on 1-2, Lincoln Prep High School, in their brand-new football stadium located in Grambling. 

TEAM	1	2	3	4	FINAL
JHHS (1-2)	0	6	0	6	12
Bunkie (3-0)	13	21	13	7	54

YARDSTICK

STAT	JHHS	BUNKIE
First Downs	10	23
Rushing Yards	108	291
Passing Yards	59	145
Total Yards	167	436
Turnovers	1	1
Third Down Conversions	1/9	4/6
Fourth Down Conversions	3/5	1/1
Penalties	6/49	2/19

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