“Perception is reality” – American political strategist Lee Atwater

Most people believe this is true but is it really? According to Ph. D Jim Taylor, a contributing columnist for Psychology Today, in actuality this aphorism is often used to justify a perception that may be objectively unjustifiable or just plain out of touch with reality.

“Perception acts as a lens through which we view reality,” said Taylor. “Our tendency is to assume that how we perceive reality is an accurate representation of what reality truly is.

Among the residents of the town of Jonesboro there is perception that there is a serious rift between Mayor Leslie Thompson and Police Chief James “Spike” Harris. This was brought to the forefront during the most recent meeting of the Jonesboro Board of Aldermen held on July 14^th. In this instance, even if the perception is a reality, both agree that they must work together for the betterment of the town.

“It is no secret that in the past our Mayor tried to defund the Police Department which caused us to have opposite opinions,” said Harris. “Regardless, our opinions don’t matter. My only focus is to enforce the laws and ordinances of this town that have been set forth and this is what I intend to do.”

Mayor Thompson echoed those sentiments in a statement he made during the Town Council meeting.

“As stated in the Larson Act the Police Chief does not answer to the Mayor but to the people of the town he was elected by” Thompson responded to a person commenting at the meeting. “Any problems between the Chief and I would only impeded progress so it is my hopes that we can work together to continue to move the town forward.”

By: Glynn Harris

            It’s been a long time ago, 26 years ago in fact, but I can still remember my first and only visit to Bussey Brake and I came way anything but impressed. I watched a pair of commercial fishermen come to the launch ramp with their boat filled with carp and buffalo. When I looked out across the lake, it certainly didn’t look like a lake I’d enjoy trying to fish for bass, crappie or bream.

            Bussey was constructed in the mid-1950s by International Paper Co. to be used as an alternate water source for the company’s paper mill. Once the mill closed, the lake was donated to the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) some eight years ago. Since that time, the state agency has been at work on creating a new lake out of the original impoundment.

            First off, the lake was basically drained and the abundance of “trash” fish, such as common carp and buffalo were removed and the work to give the lake a new lease on life began.

            Mike Wood, retired fisheries biologist with the LDWF spent many hours on Bussey both professionally and as an angler who loved the lake.
            “At one time,” Wood said, “Bussey was a nationally recognized area with some great fishing and was a blessing to International Paper Co. which allowed public access to the lake.”

            As years passed, the lake started developing a serious problem; it became infested with what some call “trash” fish such as common carp and buffalo.

            “These fish became abundant so much so that the water stayed muddy and fishing in general declined. The removal of these undesirable fish was one spoke in the wheel of getting the lake back to where it originally was,” Wood said.

            One problem that has always faced anglers occurs right at the launch ramp. Steady breezes have made launching and getting a boat on a trailer a major problem.

            “The boat ramp was in dire need of protection from heavy wave action. All it took was for a storm to blow up out of the southwest that created a serious hazard to boats trying to launch or leave the lake. A beautiful wave-break levee has been constructed in front of the ramp leaving calm water for launching. In addition, there is a pretty deep hole in the lake where material was extracted to build the levee. This deep area should be a fine crappie fishing spot especially during winter time,” Wood said.

            Although there are still some “rough” fish in the lake, their numbers have been reduced to the point that game fish that were released and are growing in the lake should have a good chance to create healthy populations of fish. The lake has been restocked with largemouth bass, sunfish, crappie and channel catfish.

            Since Bussey is actually a wildlife management area, certain requirements must be met for anglers to enjoy fishing the lake. A self-clearing permit will be used and wildlife enforcement agents will be on the lake to insure that proper regulations are in order. For example, the lake will have certain limits and length regulations in effect. For bass, there is a five fish limit with a 16 inch maximum length with one fish over 16 inches allowed in the creel. Crappie limit is 25 with a 10 inch maximum length while the bream limit is 50 with no maximum.

            There are now clearly marked boat lanes that will keep boaters from slamming lower units into stumps. These lanes are of particular importance because the lake still lacks some two feet reaching pool stage.

            Oh, there is one more problem. There are no rest room facilities around the lake. A word to the wise might be to GO before you GO.

There is nothing like having fun in the sun but you have to be careful as well. The National Weather Service (NWS) in Shreveport has announced that throughout the remainder of July that Heat Index values will be in the dangerous level in Jackson Parish.

 The Heat Index (HI) is a measure of how hot it really feels when relative humidity is factored in with the actual air temperature.  To determine the actual Heat Index temperature, look at the Heat Index Chart below. As an example, if the air temperature is 96°F and the relative humidity is 65%, the heat index–how hot it feels–is 121°F.

The red area without numbers indicates extreme danger. The NWS issues a heat advisory when the HI reaches 105° and a heat warning when 105°F for more than 3 hours per day for 2 consecutive days. Exposure to full sunshine can increase heat index values by up to 15°F.

With prolonged exposure and/or physical activity you can expect the following:

Caution level:  General Fatigue

Extreme Caution: Sunstroke, muscle cramps and heat exhaustion possible

Danger level:  Sunstroke, muscle cramps and heat exhaustion likely

Extreme Danger: Sunstroke, heat stroke likely

Let’s be real!  America is in a state of metamorphosis, a change that is long overdue.  America is not in a good place as President Trump would proclaim, certainly not for people of color, when they are being attacked, rebuked and scorned, threatened and demeaned for supporting the Black Lives Matter movement that is currently taking place across the world.  The truth of the matter is that no nation can lay claim to “greatness” until all of its citizens are included as full participants in the American experiment.  We can no longer live a lie, touting to the world that America is the land of the free.  People of color will and must not submit to second and third-class citizenship. I want to believe that America is at a turning point, not because of a desire, but because of the deafening cries or demands for justice for ALL people.  The old guard cannot and will never accept the fact that America is changing demographically, culturally, socially and economically.  America must become a nation of one people where justice and equality is afforded to all.  The plea that is being heard from protesters all over the nation and the world is that communities of color are here to stay.  America’s greatest tragedy, most public national embracement and greatest divide has never been about what African Americans have done to white America, but it is all about what white America has done and continues to do to Black, Brown, and Yellow America 

As a side bar, in my research I came across an article entitled “Guam Residents Get Payments for Suffering During Occupation.”  The article goes on to note that the U.S. Territory of Guam was attacked and captured by Japanese forces in December 1941, and thousands of native islanders suffered horribly at the hands of their captors.  In 1951 a peace treaty relieved Japan of the burden of paying reparations, and early this year (2020) the US government began making payments ranging from $10,000 to $25,000 to certain residents of Guam as compensation for the hardships they or their family members endured during the occupation, as reported by the Associated Press.

Wow!  When I read this article, I began to reflect upon and weep at the dismal plight of slaves ancestors and their descendants who have fought long and disappointing battles to be respected, to be treated as humans, and compensated for the pain, humiliation, anger and suffering endured for more than four hundred years.  While a federal review commission determined that the nation had a “moral obligation” to offer compensation for the suffering and loyalty of the residents of Guam, African Americans have been given no such consideration.  They have been in a holding pattern waiting for a commission to review requests for reparations to members of the Back community for the years of suffering and ill treatment at the hands of white Americans with the government having taken the lead in the mistreatment of Black Americans.

Please do not misunderstand me, (I am grateful for the generosity extended to the residents of Guam), however, my frustrations and concerns are that the United States of America is quick to  dismiss or discuss any claim(s) advanced by the descendants of African Americans, of slaves, who were subjected to forced labor, personal injury, rape and murder, separation of families, denial of education and of the most basic human rights, while claims are being funded and awarded to citizens of Guam for far less atrocities than those suffered by Black Americans!.

Even more interesting, conflicting, confusing and disturbing, I came upon another article revealing the fact that slave owners received reparations from America for losing slaves when slavery finally ended.  ln April 1862 President Abraham Lincoln signed a bill, known as the District of Columbia Act, which paid loyal unionists up to $300.00 for every lost or freed slave. Yes, reparations are nothing new to America!  Slave-owners received reparations and enslaved African Americans got nothing for their broken, strapped, beaten and worn bodies, for their years of misery and suffering, for their free labor, and their years of frustrations in being forced to build a nation that they would never be truly welcomed in, compensated for or accepted as equals.  The only benefit that African American slaves received was the appearance and symbolism of freedom from legal bondage.  It is amazing that slave owners were the beneficiaries of public outrage and of having enslaved humankind and were rewarded for having abused innocent slaves.  Slave owners were also compensated throughout the nation by local, colonial and state legislatures for any loss of slave labor, (chattel as slaves were commonly referred to). The only benevolence extended to African Americans following slavery was a trip “back to Africa” ($100 per person back to Liberia or Haiti).  Wow!  Unbelievable but true!!

Back to “getting real;” again I stress that we are in the midst of a major health crisis, a life and death situation, a pandemic where more than three thousand citizens in the US are dying each day, no cure in sight, and a time when we are experiencing more than 10 thousand new COVID infections per day, yet citizens are seemingly taking these phenomena for granted.  It is evident and quite shameful that many citizens are saying I don’t care, I will not be forced to wear a mask, it will happen to someone else, not me, no it won’t happen to me, or I am too young to contract the virus, it only affects older citizens, I am white, the disease is killing more African Americans than any other race, so why should I be that concerned.  Citizens are refusing to adhere to the basic recommendations and warnings of public health experts for limiting the spread of and defeating this virus, an enemy that if not stopped, could be around for many years to come.

We must begin to view this virus for what it is, acknowledge that it is real, it’s not fake news or something that will be gone in a few days, it is a serious and deadly virus, a life and death situation, one that encourages citizens not to gather in large groups, to practice public health guidelines, to wear masks when in public settings, practice social distancing, wash and sanitize hands and affected surfaces frequently and staying at home to avoid contact with the individual who may be vectors of the virus.  More people must be tested to determine the level of the virus, and contact tracing must become more aggressive.  The virus is controlling us at this moment and while there is hope that a vaccine may be available at the end of the year, the public is growing more skeptical about seeing an end to the pandemic any time soon.  Other countries have flattened the curve in the spread of the virus by adhering to mask wearing, social distancing, lockdown at home, and not reopening governments too soon.  We encourage citizens to remember the wisdom from an old African saying that “fools do last what wise men do first and wise men do last what fools do first.”  Let’s get real, wise men are following social distancing, wearing masks, staying at home, staying away from large gatherings, for these are the measures, the formula and prescription that America must ultimately mandate and follow if we are to overcome this pandemic.

Dr. Herbert Simmons, Jr. is an Associate Professor, Department of Criminal Justice, Grambling State University, former President, Grambling State University Faculty Senate and former Chair, Department of Consumer Education and Resource Management, Howard University, Washington, D.C.

This past week recent Quitman High School graduate Stormie Snowden was recognized by KTVE – Channel 10 sports anchor Chris Demirdjian and the website myarklamiss.com in their segment called “Senior Night”. 

Snowden, who was a member of the national champion Quitman High School Cheerleader squad and individual All-American award winner, becomes the second senior  from QHS to be recognized this year. She was also a member of the QHS Beta Club and Fellowship of Christian Athletes.

“Senior Night” is sponsored by Creed & Creed Law Firm and spotlights special 2019-20 high school from northeast Louisiana. Congratulations Stormie!

Qualifying for the November 3, 2020, election begins Wednesday, July 22, 2020 at 8:30 a.m. and continues through Friday, July 24, 2020, until 4:30 p.m. at the Jackson Parish Clerk of Court office located in the Jackson Parish Courthouse in Jonesboro. 

Payment must be in the form of CASH or MONEY ORDER. All persons qualifying will need to go by the Registrar of Voters office and pick up a certificate of registration prior to qualifying in the Clerk’s Office. Everyone entering the Courthouse will be required to wear a face mask upon entry. More information can be obtained by calling 318-259-2424.

Just over one hundred miles north of Anchorage, Alaska, sits the small, picturesque, historic town of Talkeetna.  It is a small town with a population of about 900 residents.  Talkeetna is the last stop for tourists and climbers destined for North America’s tallest peak, Mount McKinley.  Much of the village’s income comes from tourist who visit for hiking, mountain biking, camping, fishing, hunting, rafting, and flightseeing.  Local artists, craftsmen, and musicians sell the products of their crafts in shops throughout the town.   

The candidates for the 1997 Talkeetna mayoral race were not popular with the villagers.  They longed for a good, honest candidate.  One of the villagers suggested they nominate a well-liked villager nicknamed Stubbs.  Secretly, the residents spread the word that on election day they would write in their vote for their preferred candidate.  Stubbs made no political speeches, never asked the people to vote for him, nor did he do anything other than his normal day-to-day routine.  One supporter proudly told anyone who would listen that “He’s everybody’s guy.”  Without do so much as a handshake to gain a vote, Stubbs became mayor.    

Stubbs spent most of his time, not in a stuffy office away from the public, but in Nagley’s General Store where he mingled with locals and tourists alike.  Well-wishers who were unable to find Mayor Stubbs at the General Store only had to look next door at the West Rib Pub and Cafe where he always had his choice of seats and drank water from a wine or margarita glass.  Mayor Stubbs never drank alcohol.  Mayor Stubbs loved socializing with tourists and hammed it up for cameras.  Everyone who met him said “He’s got a great personality.” 

Shortly after becoming mayor, word spread beyond Talkeetna of his charisma and charm.  His popularity grew into fame when newspapers around the nation reported on his vibrant personality.  People flocked to the town to meet Mayor Stubbs and have their picture taken with him.  Mayor Stubbs was always happy to oblige them. 

Mayor Stubbs always oversaw but never participated in the yearly Wilderness Woman and Bachelor Auction and Ball.  During this charity event, local bachelors were auctioned off to the highest bidders and spent an evening with the winning bidders.  Not to be left out of the festivities, they held a wilderness woman contest which consisted of several tests of strength and endurance “to show these bachelors what women are made of…Alaskan grit!”  As always, Mayor Stubbs socialized with everyone present.  Local residents could not have been happier with Mayor Stubbs.  When a reporter asked Geoff Pfeiffer, waiter at the West Rib Pub and Café, how he liked the mayor, Geoff replied, “We all love him.”  He explained that he and his coworkers vied for their chance to wait on the mayor. 

On the night of September 7, 2013, a vicious dog attacked Mayor Stubbs as he was taking an evening stroll through town.  After what must have seemed like an eternity, Mayor Stubbs escaped from the dog’s clutches.  Mayor Stubbs suffered a punctured lung, a long deep gash on his side, and several bruises.  Bleeding and weak, a local resident loaded Mayor Stubbs into his vehicle and drove an hour to the nearest hospital.  Staff at the hospital were afraid that Mayor Stubbs would not survive what turned out to be a three-hour surgery.  Word quickly spread of the vicious attack on Mayor Stubbs.  People from all over the world wished him a speedy recovery on his Facebook and Twitter pages.  Many of them sent donations to help pay his exorbitant hospital bills.  The residents of Talkeetna did their part as well.  Mayor Stubbs’s donation jar at the general store soon overflowed with coins and folding money.  To their relief, Mayor Stubbs made a full recovery.

As soon as his health returned, Mayor Stubbs returned to his position in Talkeetna.  Once again, he spent most of his time making pleasantries with locals and tourists.  Mayor Stubbs held the office of mayor until he died in his sleep on July 22, 2017.  People all over the world mourned his death and posted letters of condolence on his Facebook page.  Mourners also shared pictures of themselves with the beloved mayor.  They noted that for him to have been mayor at all was an amazing achievement.  Normally, a candidate had to be eighteen years of age to run for office, but the overwhelming support for Stubbs made officials take drastic action.  You see, Mayor Stubbs was elected when he was just sixteen years old.  Mayor Stubbs was also…a cat.

Sources:

1. Decatur Herald and Review, September 4, 2013, p.22.
2. The Gazette (Montreal, Quebec, Canada) September 7, 2013, p.2.

The “Remember this?” book is available for preorder on my website…BradDison.com

The Louisiana State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE) approved minimum statewide health and safety standards for the reopening of K-12 schools in the 2020-2021 school year amid the ongoing COVID-19 public health emergency.

The policy shifts will help ensure the protection of students, faculty, staff, and others on school property to the maximum extent possible and practical, and apply to all traditional public, charter, and nonpublic schools in Louisiana.

BESE’s action is in response to House Bill 59 (now Act 9) of the 2020 First Extraordinary Session, which required the Board to adopt emergency rules informed by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines to provide minimum standards, policies, medical exceptions, and regulations to govern the reopening of schools for the 2020-2021 school year. The standards approved were developed by the Louisiana Department of Education (LDE) in coordination with the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) in accordance with the latest CDC guidance.

“The safety of students and educators is on everyone’s mind as Louisiana prepares to reopen school facilities this fall, and it is an issue that BESE takes very seriously,” said Sandy Holloway, Board president. “The standards unanimously adopted reflect the extensive collaboration between education stakeholders and public health leaders. The result is a practical framework of required safety measures upon which school systems will build the best reopening plan for their communities.”

The policies outline baseline public health requirements for school boards and local governing authorities to follow when reopening facilities to students in fall 2020. Each Local Education Agency (LEA) is required to adopt policies in accordance with the state’s standards prior to the start of the 2020-2021 school year and submit a plan to the LDE addressing each phase of reopening.

“I’m grateful to BESE for their thoughtful, steady leadership during this uncertain time,” said Dr. Cade Brumley, State Superintendent of Education. “This sets minimum health and safety standards for every school in the state, while also allowing for local decision making by system leaders.”

The complete set of standards is available for public viewing online. Specific requirements within the policy are defined according to the state’s current reopening phase (phase 1, phase 2, or phase 3). A general summary of the standards follows:

Group sizes: The maximum group size that may convene indoors in a single room or outdoors at any time are 10 individuals (phase 1), 25 individuals (phase 2), and 50 individuals (phase 3).

Group composition: Younger students unable to wear face coverings or maintain physical distancing should be assigned static groups, which must include at minimum, students in grade 2 or lower. The composition of a group may change if students are able to maintain physical distancing. Students with disabilities must continue to receive special education services in the least restrictive environment possible.

Physical standards for use of school facilities: Groups that convene indoors must do so in a room enclosed by a wall or partition. If groups convene outdoors, each group must remain separated. Schools must limit crowding at entry and exit points to the greatest extent possible. Maximum group sizes and physical distance recommendations must be maintained. High-touch surfaces in rooms used by multiple groups must be cleaned before and after use by each group.

COVID-19 symptoms monitoring: Upon arriving at the school facility, each student and adult must be assessed for symptoms of COVID-19 as defined by the CDC, to include an initial temperature check. Each school must establish an isolation area for anyone showing signs of being sick, which must be cleaned after being occupied by a sick individual.

Face coverings: While inside the school facility, all adults and students in grades 3 through 12 must wear a face covering to the greatest extent possible and practical within the local community context. Students in grades pre-K through 2 may wear a face covering. Children under age 2 and individuals with breathing difficulties should not wear a face covering.

Facility cleaning: High-touch surfaces must be cleaned multiple times a day, including bathrooms.

Personal hygiene: Students must wash or sanitize hands upon arrival at the school, at least every two hours, before and after eating or using outdoor play equipment, and before exiting the school facility.

Hygienic supplies: School employees must be provided adequate access to supplies such as soap, hand sanitizer, disinfectants, paper towels, tissues, and face coverings when needed. Appropriate quantities are to be provided according to the role, number, and age of students served by the employee.

Student transportation: Buses must not exceed 25 percent capacity in phase 1, 50 percent in phase 2, and 75 percent in phase 3, spaced to the greatest extent possible according to the current reopening phase.

Determinations of student placement in a distance or in-person education program: Determinations are made in consideration of the student’s unique academic, social, emotional, familial, and medical needs, in consultation with the student’s parent or custodian.

Exceptions: LEAs will address medical or disability exceptions on an individual basis in accordance with local policies.

The standards reflect the Strong Start 2020 guidance issued by the LDE in June 2020, developed in partnership with the LDH and the Resilient Louisiana Commission, which include best practices and reopening guidance for local school districts.

BESE approved the policies as emergency rules in accordance with R.S. 49:953 and are effective immediately. The emergency declaration remains in effect for 120 days or until the permanent rules are promulgated in accordance with state law through the regular Notice of Intent process.

As research and information about COVID-19 is updated, or if the LDH or CDC revise guidance regarding school settings, the LDE will review the standards and propose revisions to BESE as appropriate and necessary.

Some renters can now apply for rental assistance if they can’t pay their rent due to impacts from COVID-19. Governor John Bel Edwards announced the new $24 million Emergency Rental Assistance Program this past Thursday afternoon.

“This program is designed to help renters who have faced financial hardship as a result of shutdowns, closures, layoffs, reduced working hours or unpaid leave due to the pandemic,” said Edwards.

The first-come-first-serve payments depend on income, household size, and fair market rent prices. It assists households whose income does not exceed $13,500 for one individual, up to 25,450 for a household of eight people.

“The program is available to individuals who are at 30 percent or below average medium income,” said Keith Cunningham, Executive Director for the Louisiana Housing Corporation. “That benefit will allow for three months of rental payment moving forward and three months of back rental payment as additional emergency solution grant dollars are made available.”

Income Eligibility Requirements:

1. 1 Person $13,500
2. 2 Person $15,450
3. 3 Person $17,350
4. 4 Person $19,300
5. 5 Person $20,850
6. 6 Person $22,400
7. 7 Person $23,900
8. 8 Person $25,450

Andreanecia Morris with Housing Louisiana believes this is only a start. The program provides $24 million in assistance, but she estimates at least $250 million is needed to keep Louisiana renters in their homes.

“It’s just not good enough,” said Morris. “If you’re a family of four you can’t make more than $19,000 to qualify for this rental assistance program and you have to have lost income because of COVID to access the funds, so this is a sliver,” Morris said.

You can apply now by calling 211 or at: larenthelp.com.

Governor John Bel Edwards declared a statewide public health emergency on March 11, 2020 due to the imminent threat posed to Louisiana citizens by the COVID-19 pandemic. On July 13, 2020, Governor John Bel Edwards signed Act 12 of the 2020 First Extraordinary Session of the Louisiana Legislature, which provides for a one-time hazard pay rebate of $250 to essential critical infrastructure workers.

The Louisiana Department of Revenue (“Department”) will implement and administer the Frontline Workers COVID-19 Hazard Pay Rebate Program. The purpose of this bulletin is to provide information on eligibility requirements, the application process, the rebate program cap, and related issues.

To be eligible for the rebate, an applicant must meet all of the following requirements:

1. The applicant submits an application to the Department between July 15 and October 31, 2020;
2. The applicant is a Louisiana resident individual;
3. The applicant was employed on or after March 11, 2020, in one of the jobs listed in the Eligible Job Categories section of this bulletin; and
4. The applicant was required by his or her employer to provide in-person services outside of the applicant’s home and was in contact with customers, patients, or the general public for at least 200 hours between March 22, 2020, and May 14, 2020.1 Call center personnel or persons whose jobs are conducted exclusively via telephone, computer or other remote or virtual means are not eligible for the rebate.

 

Eligible Job Categories:

1. Nurses, assistants, aides, medical residents, pharmacy staff, phlebotomists, respiratory therapist, and workers providing direct patient care in inpatient and outpatient dialysis facilities;
2. Housekeeping, laundry services, food services and waste management personnel in hospitals and healthcare facilities;
3. Long-term care facility personnel, outpatient care workers, home care workers, personal assistance providers, home health providers, home delivered meal providers, and childcare service providers;
4. Emergency medical services (EMS) personnel, fire and rescue personnel, law enforcement personnel, and public health epidemiologists;
5. Bus drivers; retail fuel service personnel; sanitation personnel; residential, commercial and industrial solid waste and hazardous waste removal personnel; storage and disposal personnel;
6. Grocery store, convenience store, and food assistance program personnel;
7. Mortuary service providers; or Veterinary service staff

Independent contractors, self-employed individuals, and gig workers may be eligible for rebates if all of the same eligibility requirements are met. In the Employer Information section of the application, these types of workers must list their client, service recipient, or other type of payee, the address where the work was performed, and a description of services provided. The worker must also attach an explanation of how their services were substantially dedicated to responding to or mitigating the COVID-19 public health emergency.

Application Process:

Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications electronically by visiting http://frontlineworkers.la.gov/. Alternatively, applicants may submit their application via a printed form downloaded from the Department’s website and mailed to the address on the form.

Once the application is submitted, the Department will review the applicant’s information and verify it against available employment and tax return data. For expedited rebate payments, applicants are requested to submit employer pay stubs for the pay periods from March 22 through May 14. Before issuing a rebate, the Department may send a request by mail for additional information. The applicant should review the letter carefully and respond as soon as possible to avoid unnecessary delays.

Applicants may request direct deposit of the rebate by completing the required banking information on the application. If banking information is not provided, unreadable, or incomplete, the rebate payment will be issued by paper check.

Rebate Program Cap

The Department urges all eligible frontline workers to apply for their rebate as soon as possible. Based on current program funding, the rebates are limited to the first 200,000 applicants. While additional funding may become available later, there is no guarantee that each applicant will receive a disbursement, as rebates are approved on a first-come, first- served basis.

Rebate Offsets

Rebates are generally exempt from seizure by creditors. However, the Department will reduce a rebate payment for outstanding child support obligations as reported by the Department of Children and Family Services or for spousal support obligations.

Additional Information

For additional information on the Frontline Workers COVID-19 Hazard Pay Rebate Program, please visit http://frontlineworkers.la.gov/, review the Department’s Emergency Rule in LAC 61:I.1919, or contact the Department at (855) 307-3893.

1 Per LAC 61:I.1919, applicants will be presumed to have been responding to or mitigating the COVID-19 public health emergency as required by LA R.S. 47:1787(K) if the applicant meets all other requirements. This presumption is rebuttable by evidence or documentation obtained from the applicant’s employer.

A Revenue Information Bulletin (RIB) is issued under the authority of LAC 61:III.101.D. A RIB is an informal statement of information issued for the public and employees that is general in nature. A RIB does not have the force and effect of law and is not binding on the public or the Department.

There was definitely a bit of confusion when LHSAA executive director Eddie Bonine said that the state had to get to Phase 4 before football season could begin just one week after he stated that the fall prep football season was on go.

“I said phase four yesterday,” Bonine said on the “Off the Bench”  radio show on ESPN 104.5 in Baton Rouge. “People are losing their minds at the fact that they can’t find a phase four. I get it. At the end of the day, I could’ve said post-phase three.”

What you could take from that is a miscommunication. To be clear, phase four is strictly on the LHSAA timeline. Bonine says that they will follow the state through each phase, and that once Louisiana reaches phase three, then if numbers are still trending in the right direction, the LHSAA can give their own green light on their own phase four, which would allow contact sports like football.

“What we need is for the state to go back to doing whatever we were doing that got us out of phase one to get us into phase two that we’re in right now,” says Bonine. “It seems like we’ve been in phase two for a long time with the state. Whatever we were doing back then, we need to continue to get back to that.”

On June 26^th the original Phase 2 reopening of the state order expired but Governor Jon Bel Edwards said it would stay in place for at least another 28 days due to a tremendous amount of new outbreaks of the Coronavirus around the state.

The Louisiana State Police arrested an Eros man for drunk driving and aggravated flight. Police say they initiated a traffic stop after the driver, Robert Campbell, was observed not wearing a seat belt. According to authorities, they activated emergency lights and sirens and the driver fled while, in the arresting Police officers words “flipping the bird” out of the driver’s window.

The vehicle then turned right onto Marion Sims Rd. where it stopped at a residence in the 300 block of Marion Sims Rd. Once stopped, authorities say Campbell refused to comply with orders and then returned to his vehicle and retrieved a lighter and a can of some type of flammable substance.

Campbell allegedly then ignited the substance and direted it’s flame flow at two troopers and one Ouachita Sheriff’s Deputy. After Campbell dropped the substance, Police were able to handcuff him. Allegedly, open alcoholic beverages were located inside the vehicle and were cold to the touch. Officers say Campbell displayed signs of alcohol impairment. Once at OCC, authorities say Campbell participated in SFST which he performed poorly at and refused to submit to the intoxilyzer 9000, but did voluntarily provide a blood sample at LSU Monroe.

Campbell was booked into OCC for the following charges:

1. Driving while intoxicated (2nd offense)
2. No seat belt
3. Open container
4. Passing in a no passing zone
5. Aggravated flight from an officer
6. Resisting an officer
7. Aggravated assault on a peace officer

Arrests made by Jackson Parish Law Enforcement Officers (July 13 -19)

1. Scott Kenneth Burlette (Jonesboro, LA) – Simple Criminal Damage to Property
2. Deandre Dobbins (Jonesboro, LA) – Battery of a dating partner, Disturbing the Peace
3. Steven KuJawa (Hodge, LA) – Disturbing the Peace, Criminal Trespass
4. Clarence Jackson (New Orleans, LA) – Introduction of Contraband
5. Doyle T. Pepper ( West Monroe, LA) – Ouachita Parish Bench Warrant (Domestic Abuse)
6. Nathan K. Fair (Jonesboro, LA) – Possession of Schedule II drug, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Head light offense
7. John Curtis Mills (Winnfield, LA) – Fugitive from Justice Warrant (Capital Murder)
8. Elizabet Ingram (Jonesboro, LA) – Possession of Schedule I drug, Possession of Schedule I drug with intent to distribute, Tag light infraction, Possession of MDMA
9. Ocatvious Morgan ( Jonesboro, LA) – Possession of Schedule I drug
10. Robert Coonce (Dodson, LA) – Theft
11. Glen Whiseant (Jonesboro, LA) – Simple Criminal Damage to Property
12. Dalton Underwood (Downsville, LA) – Possession of Schedule I drug, Improper Lane violation
13. Bradley Lutrick (Hodge, LA) – Possession of Schedule I drug
14. Willie Young (Searcy, AR) – Warrant (Unauthorized use of a moveable), Warrant (Aggravated Assault)
15. Courtney Brosset (Jonesboro, LA) – 2^nd Degree Battery
16. Hughey Lavelle Smith (Eros, LA) – Fugitive from Justice
17. Jamel Owens (Jonesboro, LA) – Possession of Schedule I drug, Possession of stolen firearm, No seat belt
18. Quinton M. Blewer (Hodge, LA) – Simple Battery (x2), Disturbing the Peace, Resisting an Officer

 

Terri Lynn Johnston July 16, 1957 – July 15, 2020
Terri Lynn Johnston, age 62 of Jonesboro, passed from this life on Wednesday, July 15, 2020 following a lengthy period of declining health. Terri was a fun loving and outgoing person who proudly served her country on two separate enlistments in the United States Air Force.

Those left to cherish her memory are her children, Dennis Bowen, Tara Hatfield, Rhett Bowen, Nicci Johnston, Marshal Johnston and Michael Johnston; 20 grandchildren; mother, Eddith Joy (Roden) Smith; sister, Shannon Kramer; a host of nieces and nephews, other relatives and friends. Preceding her in death were her father, Troy Lynn Smith and brother, Kevin Smith.

There will be a memorial service to honor her memory at a later date.

L.C. Lindsay          December 3, 1942 – July 14, 2020
Mr. L. C. Lindsay, age 77, passed away on July 14, 2020. There will be a public viewing held at the Paradise Funeral Home in Jonesboro on Friday, July 24 from 2:00-5:00 pm and again at the Winnfield Cemetery on Saturday, July 25 from 10:00 – 11:00 am. A graveside service under the direction of Paradise Funeral Home will follow immediately.

The Jackson Parish Journal is pleased to add a new Classifieds section where you can post your items for sale or services that you have available. Cost per post is $10.00 per week and can be submitted by email at jpjjacksonla@gmail.com or by text to 318-480-1206.

For Sale:

5.06 acres of land (Price Reduced) – located one mile East of Jimmie Davis Tabernacle on Hwy. 542, Beech Springs Road, Quitman, LA.  Call (706)745-3933 for more information.  

Church Bus – Jonesboro-Hodge United Methodist Church is selling small Bus that is equipped with Handicap accessibility. Engine work needed. Contact Paul Sterns for more information at (360) 399-8347.  

Book for sale – “The 100 year history of JHHS football”  In-depth, year by year, review of each season that includes individual and team school records. Cost is $25.00 per copy plus $3.00 shipping and handling. Call 318-480-1206 to order.

Services offered:

Harris Yard Beautification – Professional Lawn Care provided at reasonable rates. Call Greg at (318) 245-2349

Public Notices:

Town of Jonesboro Board of Alderman Meeting Minutes    –  

 July 14, 2020

Public Hearing was called to order by Mayor Pro Temp Nia Johnson at 5:30 P.M.

Roll Call:  Flowers-Present, Stringer-Present, Siadek-Present, Ginn-Present, and Johnson-Present.

Invocation was conducted by Johnson. Pledge of Allegiance was led by Siadek.

1. Ordinance #2020-003 Budget amendment 2020-2021 The public was given the opportunity to ask questions regarding Ordinance #2020-003. There was some discussion.
2. Agenda Amendments- Resolution #2020-027 Cares Act to be added as 21A, Fire Truck Purchase Proposal to be added as 9A. Motion made by Stringer, Seconded by Flowers. Motion carried.
3. Public Comments- Citizens expressed some concerns they had for the Town of Jonesboro.
4. Mayor’s Update- “The Town of Jonesboro has come off the Non-compliance list.”
5. James Bradford: Concerns of the Town- Mr. Bradford was unable to make the meeting.
6. Approval of June Minutes: Motion by Johnson to approve June’s minutes, seconded by Flowers. Motion carried.
7. Approval of June Bills: Motion to approve June’s bills made by Siadek, seconded by Stringer. Motion carried.
8. Financials: Motion by Ginn to approve the June financials, Seconded by Flowers. Motion carried.
9. Mayor/Police Chief Relations- “The Police Chief does not answer to the mayor. Our perceived problems between the Chief and I, are starting to impede the progress of the Town. It is my hope we can move forward and work together.”
10. Resolution #2020-026 Denmon-Awarding of bid- Motion made by Siadek to award the bid to Womack & Sons for the Obstruction removal project for the airport, Seconded by Flowers. Motion carried.
11. Fuel Bids- Motion by Flowers to accept LOTT Oil’s bid for the fuel purchase contract, Seconded by Stringer. Motion carried.
12. Fire Truck Purchase Proposal- A motion was made by Stringer, seconded by Siadek to pursue the purchase of two preowned fire apparatus using the bid process as per Louisiana R.S. code. Permission was granted to the Fire Chief to pursue the bid process and award the bid package to the successful bidder as per the bid specifications.
13. Declaring Fire Trucks Surplus- Stringer made a motion to declare the 1984 Ford VIN# 1FDXD84N5EVA23335 and the 1993 International VIN# 1HTSDPCR4PH514111 surplus property pending purchase of new fire trucks, Seconded by Siadek. Motion carried.
14. Purchase Order Procedure- Fire Chief Brandon Brown discussed the new procedure the department heads should follow regarding purchases.
15. Surplus Bids- Flowers made a motion to accept the bid for the two lots of surplus property made from David Thompson, seconded by Siadek. Motion carried.
16. Ordinance #2020-004 Tax Collector Raise- A motion was made by Stringer to introduce Ordinance #2020-004 Tax Collector raise. A public hearing was set for August 11, 2020 at 5:30 p.m. to discuss the ordinance.
17. Ordinance #2020-005 Council Raise- Stringer made a motion to introduce Ordinance #2020-005 Council raise. A public hearing was set for August 11, 2020 at 5:30 p.m. to discuss the ordinance.
18. Ordinance #2020-006 Sewer Budget- Siadek made a motion to introduce Ordinance #2020-006 Sewer Budget. A public hearing was set for August 11, 2020 at 5:30 p.m. to discuss the ordinance.
19. Ordinance #2020-007 Water Budget- A motion was made by Siadek to introduce Ordinance #2020-007 Water Budget. A public hearing was set for August 11, 2020 at 5:30 p.m. to discuss the ordinance.
20. Department Head Reports- Police Chief Harris, Fire Chief Brown, and Public Works Director Wortham gave an update of how each department has been over the last month.
21. Approval of Department Head Reports- Flowers made a motion to approve the Department Head reports. Siadek seconded. Motion carried.
22. Infiltration Issues- Public Works Director, Mr. Wortham briefly discussed a plan to send letters to residents of the Town regarding the infiltration system.
23. Appointment of Airport Manager- Mayor Thompson introduced Mr. Herbert Simmons as the newly appointed Airport Manager.
24. Ordinance #2020-008 Juneteenth Holiday- Stringer made a motion to introduce Ordinance #2020-008 Juneteenth Holiday. A public hearing was set for August 11, 2020 at 5:30 p.m. to discuss the ordinance.
25. Resolution 2020-027 Cares Act- A motion was made by Siadek to adopt Resolution #2020-027 Cares Act, Seconded by Flowers. Motion Carried.
26. Executive Session- Flowers made a motion to enter Executive Session with no action taken, seconded by Siadek. Motion Carried. Flowers made to motion to come out of Executive Session, seconded by Stringer. Motion carried.
27. Council Comments- Comments were expressed.
28. Mayors Comments- Comments were expressed.
29. Adjournment- Flowers made a motion to adjourn the meeting, Seconded by Ginn. Motion carried.

Jackson Parish Police Jury Meeting Minutes

July 13, 2020

The Jackson Parish Police Jury met in regular session on Monday, July 13, 2020 at 5:30 PM in the Dr. Charles H. Garrett Community Center, 182 Industrial Drive, Jonesboro, Louisiana. Members Present: Mr. Todd Culpepper, Ms. Amy Magee, Mr. John McCarty, Ms. Regina Rowe, and Mr. Lynn Treadway. Absent: Mr. Lewis Chatham and Ms. Tarneshala Cowans.

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

The President opened the floor for Public Comments.

Mr. Walter May addressed the Jury and announced his campaign for district judge.

With the completion of public comments, the President moved to the approval of minutes.

Motion Ms. Rowe, seconded Mr. Culpepper to adopt the minutes of the June 8th, June 18th and July 6th Jury Meetings, monthly purchase orders, and the payment of all bills. Motion carried.

The President moved to Committee Reports.

Finance Committee

Motion Mr. Treadway and seconded Mr. McCarty to adopt the following minutes from the June 29th Finance Committee meeting. Motion carried.

The Finance Committee met Monday, June 29, 2020 at 12:00 PM in the Police Jury Meeting Room of the Jackson Parish Courthouse, 500 E. Court Street, Room 301, Jonesboro, Louisiana. Members present: Mr. Todd Culpepper, Mr. John McCarty, and Ms. Tarneshala Cowans. Absent: none.

The meeting was called to order by the Chair, Mr. Culpepper. Mr. McCarty gave the invocation and Ms. Cowans led in the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. There were no public comments.

The Chair invited the Secretary-Treasurer to present the month-to-date purchase orders and financial statements. The Secretary-Treasurer reviewed the Master Fund trial balance and discussed the restricted fund balances explaining that $4.3 million of the total $10.0 million balance is restricted from spending by the Police Jury. The Committee reviewed the Revenue and Expenditure report and the budget report for current vs. actual.

The Committee reviewed the financial summary of the Sales & Use Tax, 2015 Road Certificates of Debt and Current Year Road Program funds. The Secretary-Treasurer discussed how the funds work together through transfers and the funding sources and needs for long-term planning. Motion Ms. Cowans, seconded Mr. McCarty to adjourn. Motion carried.

Operations Committee

Motion Mr. Treadway, seconded Ms. Rowe to adopt the following minutes from the June 16th Operations Committee meeting. Motion carried

The Operations Committee met Thursday, June 18, 2020 at 3:00 PM in the Police Jury Meeting Room of the Jackson Parish Courthouse, 500 E. Court Street, Room 301, Jonesboro, Louisiana. Members present: Mr. Lewis Chatham, Ms. Amy Magee and Mr. Lynn Treadway. Absent: none. Also in attendance: Mr. Jody Stuckey, Road Superintendent; Mr. Robin Sessions, Solid Waste Superintendent, and Mr. Darrell Avery, Assistant D.A.

The meeting was called to order by the Chair, Ms. Magee. Mr. Treadway gave the invocation and Mr. Chatham led in the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance.

There being no public comments, the Chair moved on to agenda items.

The Committee discussed the need for defining a public use road. Mr. Avery stated that the Attorney General had ruled that it is not possible to define what a public use road is and advised the Committee to use their Revocation of Public Road policy to remove roads. The Committee reviewed the policy and determined that they need to provide guidance to the Parish Engineer in order for him to compile a list of roads to be reviewed for removal.

Motion Mr. Treadway, seconded Mr. Chatham to recommend the Jury authorize the Parish Engineer to compile a list of roads in the Parish Road System that:

• Have been requested for removal by a property owner
• Have one landowner on all 3 sides
• Have road maintenance extending beyond the property line (re-assess maintenance line)

Motion carried.

The Chair invited Mr. Stuckey to discuss issues with drainage work performed in the right-of-way when the property owner(s) does not want it. The Committee reviewed Revised Statute 48:483 which gives the Jury authority to cut ditches and canals where necessary to drain public roads.

Motion Mr. Chatham, seconded Mr. Treadway to recommend the Jury amend the Culvert Policy to give authority to the drainage crew to replace any existing culverts as needed for proper drainage of the Parish Road System and to make the property owner responsible for the purchase of new culverts, per the culvert permit, to be installed and maintained by the Road Department. Motion carried.

The Committee reviewed the status of Sugar Creek Road. Mr. Stuckey confirmed that the barricades were up for the closed portion of the road. The Committee and Mr. Avery reviewed the portion of the road to be removed and discussed notices to be sent to the affected property owners.

The Committee reviewed the letter of request from the Village of Quitman.

Motion Mr. Chatham, seconded Mr. Treadway to have the Road Superintendent prepare a cost estimate for the request and to reply to the Village of Quitman that if they purchase the materials or use the annual appropriation funds, the Road Department can perform the work. Motion carried.

The Committee reviewed the revenues vs. expenses for the Solid Waste Recycle Program for plastic, aluminum, and cardboard/paper. Mr. Sessions detailed the cost of the program over a three-year period.

Motion Mr. Treadway, seconded Mr. Chatham to recommend the Jury authorize the closure of the plastic, aluminum, and cardboard/paper recycle programs as of August 30th, notify the public and businesses, and offer one additional weekly pickup as-needed to current participants as a good faith offer for participating in the volunteer recycle program over the years. Motion carried.

Motion Mr. Treadway, seconded Ms. Rowe to authorize the Road Superintendent and Parish Engineer to review the parish road system and present a report of roads for Jury consideration. Motion carried.

Motion Ms. Rowe, seconded Mr. Treadway to adopt the amended culvert policy. Motion carried.

The Jury discussed the recommendation to suspend the plastic, aluminum, and paper/cardboard recycle program.

Motion Mr. Culpepper, seconded Mr. McCarty to authorize the Solid Waste Department to send notices to the recycle customers that the program would end effective August 31, 2020. Motion carried with Ms. Rowe requesting the notice include a statement that the Jury may try to bring the program back in the future.

Policy & Personnel Committee

Motion Mr. Culpepper, seconded Ms. Rowe to adopt the following minutes from the June 12th Policy & Personnel Committee meeting. Motion carried June 12, 2020

The Policy & Personnel Committee met Friday, March 12, 2020 at 12:00 PM in the Police Jury Meeting Room of the Jackson Parish Courthouse, 500 E. Court Street, Room 301, Jonesboro, Louisiana. Members present: Ms. Tarneshala Cowans and Ms. Regina Rowe. Absent: Mr. Lewis Chatham. Also in attendance: Ms. Amy Magee.

The meeting was called to order by the Chair, Ms. Cowans. Ms. Rowe gave the invocation and Ms. Cowans led in the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance.

The Chair opened the floor for public comments.

Ms. Amy Magee notified the Committee that the Operations Committee would be hearing recommendations from the Road Department at their upcoming meeting for a policy on drainage work. She requested that the Policy & Personnel Committee meet after that meeting to review the recommendation.

Motion Ms. Rowe, seconded Ms. Cowans to amend the agenda to include discussion of employee retirement. Motion carried unanimously.

The Chair invited the Secretary-Treasurer and Road Department Superintendent to discuss the available vacancies in the Road Department. The Committee discussed seniority, experience, and training of employees and determined that experience and training carried more merit than seniority. No action was taken.

The Chair invited the Secretary-Treasurer to discuss the policies for employee retirement and disability. No action was taken.

Motion Ms. Rowe, seconded Ms. Cowans to adjourn. Motion carried.

Project Committee

Motion Ms. Rowe, seconded Mr. Treadway to adopt the following minutes from the June 16th Project Committee Meeting. Motion carried June 16, 2020

The Project Committee met Tuesday, June 16, 2020 at 12:00 PM in the Police Jury Meeting Room of the Jackson Parish Courthouse, 500 E. Court Street, Room 301, Jonesboro, Louisiana. Members present: Mr. Todd Culpepper, Ms. Amy Magee, and Ms. Regina Rowe. Absent: none. Also present, Attorney Bill Carter, Hospital CEO John Morgan, and Parish Engineer Paul Riley.

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

There were no public comments.

Motion Mr. Culpepper, seconded Ms. Magee to enter into Executive Session to discuss the negotiations for the hospital drainage project. Motion carried unanimously.

Motion Ms. Magee, seconded Mr. Culpepper to return to Open Session with no action being taken. Motion carried.

Motion Ms. Magee, seconded Mr. Culpepper to recommend the Jury authorize Mr. Bill Carter to make a final written offer and file an expropriation suit to obtain the drainage servitude. Motion carried.

Motion Mr. Culpepper, seconded Ms. Magee to adjourn. Motion carried.

Economic Development Committee

Motion Mr. Treadway, seconded Mr. McCarty to adopt the following minutes from the June 15th Economic Development Committee meeting. Motion carried 15, 2020

The Economic Development Committee met Monday, June 15, 2020 at 12:00 PM in the Police Jury Meeting Room of the Jackson Parish Courthouse, 500 E. Court Street, Room 301, Jonesboro, Louisiana. Members present: Mr. John McCarty, Ms. Regina Rowe, and Mr. Lynn Treadway. Absent: none. Also present: Ms. Christine Rambo from the North Louisiana Economic Partnership, Mr. Thurston Allen from Jonesboro State Bank, Mr. Rex Johnson from Hodge Bank, and Mr. Mitch Spillers from People’s Bank.

The meeting was called to order by the Chair, Mr. Treadway. Mr. McCarty gave the invocation and Ms. Rowe led in the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance.

There were no public comments.

The Chair thanked the representatives from Jonesboro State Bank, Hodge Bank, and People’s Bank for attending the meeting. He discussed the current state of the property on Industrial Drive that has had improvements made to become certified. He asked the representatives from the banks to assist the Town of Jonesboro financially to relocate the oxidation pond outfall in order for the property to be certified.

Ms. Rambo gave a presentation on how the area can prepare for economic development and gave details on the site certification process. She explained the memorandum of understanding between the property owner and the state of Louisiana.

Mr. Thurston Allen asked about improvements to private land and investment return.

Ms. Rowe left the meeting.

The Committee discussed a follow-up meeting with all interested parties including the Mayor of Jonesboro.

Motion Mr. McCarty, seconded Mr. Treadway to adjourn. Motion carried.

The President called for monthly management reports.

Mr. Jody Stuckey, Road Department Superintendent, gave the June 2020 Road report noting that $4,523.20 had been spent on emergency call-outs/off-schedule work. He stated that the asphalt work would begin in July and discussed the parish bush-hog schedule.

Motion Mr. Culpepper, seconded Mr. Treadway to accept the June 2020 emergency/off-schedule reports. Motion carried.

Mr. Robin Sessions, Solid Waste Department Superintendent, gave the June 2020 Solid Waste report and discussed the tonnage hauled to Union Parish.

The President gave an updated for OEP and discussed the state-wide mask mandate.

Mr. Robert “Bubba” Anderson, Maintenance Supervisor presented the June 2020 Maintenance Report and updated the Jury on completed and upcoming project.

Ms. Gina Thomas, Secretary-Treasurer, presented the June 2020 Financial Report highlighting the actual vs. budget comparisons for all funds. She discussed the budget amendments and fund balances.

The President moved on to Other Business.

Mr. Paul Riley, Parish Engineer with the Riley Co. gave the June 2020 Engineering report.

Motion Mr. Culpepper, seconded Mr. McCarty to award the 2020 Road Program I to Amethyst Construction Inc. for $789,470.00. Motion carried.

Motion Mr. McCarty, seconded Mr. Culpepper to award the 2020 Road Program II to Dreher Contracting, LLC for $438,265.00. Motion carried.

Motion Mr. Culpepper, seconded Ms. Rowe to promote Jack Williams from Operator I-Level I to Operator II-Level I with the pay increase contingent upon successful completion of SOCL exam. Motion carried.

Motion Ms. Rowe, seconded Mr. Treadway to hire Mathew Connor, Paul Aldy, Jeremy Davis, and Ju’Won Jack as General Laborer – Level I’s in the Road Department contingent upon pre-employment screenings and successful completion of probationary period. Motion carried.

The Jury discussed the hiring for an Operator I in the Road Department. Mr. Stuckey explained that his candidate had to decline the position due to their personal business. The Jury took no action on the proposed hiring.

The Jury took no action on a provision for time off without pay.

Motion Ms. Rowe, seconded Mr. Treadway to adopt the Jackson Parish Hazard Mitigation Plan. Motion carried.

Motion Mr. Culpepper, seconded Ms. Rowe to appoint the following parish board members:

• Re-appoint Ms. Lisa Nunn to the Library Board for a 5-year term effective 1/1/2020 – 12/31/2024.

Motion carried.

The President opened the floor for announcements and notifications.

The Secretary-Treasurer made the following announcement:

The Jackson Parish Police Jury will meet on Monday, August 10, 2020 at 5:30 PM at the Dr. Charles H. Garrett Community Center, 182 Industrial Drive, Jonesboro, LA 71251 to levy the 2020 tax millage rates.

The President announced that the Business Session meetings would continue to be held at the Community Center to allow for social distancing.

The President opened the floor to Juror Comments.

The President called for the adjournment of the meeting.

Motion Ms. Rowe, seconded Mr. Culpepper to adjourn. Motion carried

 

WARD TWO FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT MEETING MINUTES

The Ward Two Fire Protection District Board of Commissioners met in regular session on July 14, 2020 7:00 pm at the District Office. By Roll Call the following members were present: Alton Fallin, Charles Hopkins, and Mack Williams. Absent were George Gryder and Bill Wheelis. No public attendant. There were 0-additions 0-deletions offered to the agenda, meeting called to order by Chairman Williams, followed by invocation.

Motion entertained by Mr. Williams to accept the agenda as presented and proceed into business, motion Mr. Hopkins, second Mr. Fallin, motion carried. Motion entertained by Mr. Williams to accept the minutes from June 9, 2020 meeting minutes, motion Mr. Hopkins, second Mr. Fallin, motion carried.

In the order of Old Business: Chief Manning delivered the June Fire report for 7 total calls as follows: 0 Fire, 0 Grass/Brush, 0 EMS,4 MVA, 3 public tree removals. Fuel report for June was on hand of 360.1 gallons, fuel usage was 89 gallons. Apparatus/Equipment Maintenance – side window replaced on Command 1, had intake gasket and power pack changed on truck 1, and starter replaced on pumper 240. Misc. the signs are still in process of being placed around the ward, Hwy 146 almost complete. PIAL – Getting bids on clearing and leveling new training site. June training 9 members attended. Purchasing agent reports for June 2020 was reviewed. Gap Report was 100%.

Motion entertained by Mr. Williams to proceed into new business, motion Mr. Fallin, second Mr. Hopkins, motion carried.

In the order of New Business, Financial Report for m/e 06/30/20 was presented. Mr. Williams entertained the notion to take the following action on HBT Money Market to purchase a 1year CD, Mr. Hopkins motioned, Mr. Fallin seconded, motion carried. The bill review was completed by Mr. Williams. Presentation of Bills for June was discussed.

Discussion to obtain a P card followed by motion from Mr. Hopkins to adopt as presented with spending limit, Mr. Fallin second, motion carried. Mr. Williams entertained the notion to proceed for levying 2020 Tax Mileage and special meeting when obtain mileage rate, Mr. Hopkins motion, Mr. Fallin second, motion carried.

 The Action List was reviewed-nothing added.

 Board members were asked if needed to make any comments, none. There being no further orders of business motion entertained by Mr. Williams to adjourn, motion by Mr. Fallin to adjourn, second Mr. Hopkins, meeting declared adjourned by the chairman at 7:49 p.m.

1. A. Williams, Chairman

 Donna Snow, Secretary

Being an outdoors-oriented person brings with it a number of satisfying things. You get to sneak out in the woods during hunting season and try to outsmart whichever wild game species you’re hunting.

            Our lakes, ponds and streams are laden with bluegills and bass and catfish and goggle-eyes just waiting to come home with you for a swim in Lake Crisco. The catching is exciting; the eating divine.

            There are times, though, when we’re out and about without gun or rod and nature’s youngsters enthrall us as they go about doing what little wild critters do.

            Last Sunday as Kay and I were approaching our driveway after church, something caught our eye in the pasture across the road. A doe was standing there with a tiny fawn nursing her not 15 yards from the pasture fence. We were mesmerized as we watched the doe prance away, the fawn in shaky pursuit, apparently not having finished lunch. Movement under the fence caught our eye and there on unsteady legs stood a second fawn that instinctively dropped to the ground to hide in the sparse grass.

            Kay took my cell phone and approached to within three feet of the day old fawn and was able to snap a photo before the little fellow, scarcely larger than an house cat, stood and wobbled as best it could toward mama who slowed down to wait for her baby. You could pay good money to be entertained at a concert but it wouldn’t have even come close to matching the thrill we got from observing that scene.

            Once while raking pine straw from my yard, I noticed a small burrow with a little lump showing in the straw at my feet. Thinking it could have been a snake making the hole and lump, I carefully moved the straw a bit and observed a tiny bundle of fur. A newborn cottontail rabbit no larger than a tennis ball crouched motionless. I picked up the tiny rabbit for a moment to show it to my wife before carefully placing it back in its burrow. I got my yard raked but there was one particular foot square patch of straw with a burrow and lump that remained untouched.

            I was turkey hunting in Texas several years ago on a ranch that had lots of turkeys. Having built a crude blind from mesquite logs and branches alongside a dim ranch road, I settled in to try and call in a gobbler.

            After nearly an hour of hearing nothing, I crawled from my blind on all fours to sneak a peek down the road to see if I could spot a gobbler. Having seen none, I turned to crawl back to my blind ten yards away when I heard a loud “PUTT”. Turning slowly, my gaze met that of eight juvenile gobblers – “jakes” – standing with necks outstretched trying to identify what that crawling lump of camouflage was.

            As I slowly made my way back to the blind, I turned and to my surprise, the jakes were following me! Curiosity lured them to within a few yards of my blind before suspicion prevailed as they walked back the way they came, putting loudly as they left.

            For years, I have fed birds in my yard and I really enjoy the relaxation and enjoyment I get from identifying those visiting the feeders. One night several years ago, I stepped to the porch and saw movement under one of my feeders. It was a young raccoon getting his fill of the free buffet.

            I began walking slowly toward him, talking softly as I went and I was able to approach to within a couple of yards of the ‘coon before it slowly turned and left. For weeks, I’d see the ‘coon and we had this little “meet and greet” every night until he eventually left for good.

            Baby deer, rabbits, turkeys and ‘coons – it’s absolutely amazing the show nature’s little ones can provide if we slow down and let it happen.

Tragedy struck Jackson Parish when around 8:00 pm on Tuesday, July 7 Jennifer Westbrook of Jonesboro went off the road on Hwy 147 and was killed in a single car accident after the 2014 Nissan Titan she was driving struck a tree.

The initial investigation done by Louisiana State Police (LSP) Troop F revealed Westbrook, who was traveling northbound, was properly restrained but sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.

The accident took place just north of where Hwy 147 intersects Hwy 34. No additional information has been made available at this time. This is the 27^th fatal crash resulting in 28 deaths investigated by LSP Troop F in 2020.

The Louisiana State Fire Marshal’s Office has partnered with Crimestoppers of North Delta and the Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Offices in the effort to obtain additional information, including potential suspects details, in connection with multiple vehicles fires in Hodge.

According to reports the incident began around 2 AM on Monday, June 8, in the 100 block of Bellwood Drive. The Jackson Parish Ward 7 Fire Department responded to calls of several vehicles on fire. Once on scene, firefighters discovered three burning cars.

One auto was damaged inside and out, while the other two only had exterior damage. The vehicles were located only 20 feet away from a unit that was occupied by five people, two of which were children and one who was a disabled adult.

After assessing the scene, deputies determined the fire was intentionally set in one vehicle and spread to the other two. A witness reported hearing an explosion before seeing fire in one of the cars, and then saw a vehicle speeding away.

If you know anything about this case, please call the Louisiana State Fire Marshal’s Office at 225-620-5115, the Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office at 318-259-9021 or Crimestoppers at 318-388-CASH. You can also visit http://www.crimestoppersnorthdelta.com .

If your tip leads to a felony arrest and/or indictment, you will be eligible to receive a cash reward of up to $2,000. Your information remains confidential; you never leave your name and you never appear in court.

The Louisiana Dept. of Health reported 1,705 more coronavirus cases, 7 more deaths and 65 more hospitalizations statewide in a report filed on Monday, July 13^th. Out of 18,431 more tests reported, 9.25% of them were positive for coronavirus. This is almost double from when the state was in Phase 1.

Out of the new cases reported statewide, 20.62% came from the Department of Health’s Region 4, which encompasses the Acadiana area. The second highest regional increase (16.6%) came from Region 2, which covers the Baton Rouge area. The number of hospitalized coronavirus patients statewide increased to 1,308. The last time this many people were hospitalized was on May 12.

Statewide statistics as of July 13

Total cases: 79,827

Total deaths: 3,315

Currently hospitalized: 1,308

Currently on ventilators: 142

Recovered: 46,334

Jackson Parish statistics:

Positive cases tested – 252

Recovered – 157

Hospitalized – 1

Deaths – 16

Jackson Parish Correctional Center – 4

Active cases – 79

By: Kinny Haddox of the Louisiana Sportsman

Fishermen are not always forthcoming with the “whole story” of a trophy fish, so when Dustin Gates of Jonesboro started to tell me about the 10.49-pound bass he caught out of Caney Lake on Friday, June 26, I was ready.

“My buddy Casey Pennington and I just ran out to the lake for a little while to test out his new Humminbird Solix, said the 35-year-old Agape Paint and Body employee. “We were headed to a big brush top to see what it looked like on the new depth finder and we stopped pretty short and started casting.”

Gates was throwing a swimbait and Pennington was throwing a crankbait. Gates made a long cast toward the top and after a few reels, he got hung in the edge of the top. They started to ease up to it and get the bait loose, but decided to turn on the side imaging and take a look first. When they did, they saw two big fish in the top.

“We both grabbed up our worm rods and made casts in there about two seconds apart,” Gates said. “Within two seconds after mine hit the bottom, I got a bite. When I set the hook, I knew it was a good one. A few seconds later it came up to the top and jumped and my heart stopped. It was huge.”

Getting the big bass in the boat

Then the big fish turned and headed back to the top. Before he knew it, the fish had wrapped him around a snag. He worked it back and forth, back and forth and it was right under the boat, but he couldn’t get it loose.

He was about to tell his partner he was going to jump in and get the fish loose but Pennington beat him to it and dove in. A few seconds later he handed the fish, the green pumpkin Missile D Stroyer creature bait and a chunk of brush-top to Gates who got the fish in the boat then helped his “net man” back in and they headed to Hooks Marina to weigh the fish. It tipped the scales at 10.49 pounds, was 15 inches long and had a girth of 19 1/8 inches.

A great time for Caney bass

Gates says he thinks so many big bass are being caught out of Caney the past couple of years because of the grass. It has completed a mecca for the entire food chain.  He said he hopes they don’t do something like they did before and eliminate the grass, because it really hurt fishing then and it will hurt it now.

Gates does have some tips for catching big fish in the summer. Slow down, fish big baits, and use your electronics to find the good spots with fish on them. Then just have fun. And, oh yes, always have a net man who’s willing to go above and beyond….or is that “below.”

CURRENT FISHING REPORT: (submitted by Glenn Harris)

CANEY LAKE – Bream fishing has been good this week around the bedding areas on worms and crickets. Bass to 8 pounds have been caught fishing around the deeper drop-offs and points on Flukes and trick worms. A good many catfish are being caught tight lining cold worms. Crappie fishing has slowed a bit but some can still be caught fishing around the deep tops on shiners or jigs. Night tournaments are being held Thursday nights at Hooks Marina with a 3-fish limit. For latest information contact Bateaux on Caney Lake at 259-6649, Hooks Marina at 249-2347, Terzia Tackle at 278-4498 or the Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707.

OUACHITA RIVER – With water falling, best bets for crappie have been long lining jigs in the river lakes with some big fish caught. Bass have been best in the mouth of the river lakes on shad imitations. Bream are in the back waters and river lakes and hitting crickets and worms. For latest information, contact the Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707.

LAKE D’ARBONNE – Crappie are fairly shallow on the flats fishing shiner or jigs 6 feet deep in 8-10 foot water. Bass have been best fishing up the creeks around grass beds on Carolina rigs and plastic frogs. Some are also being caught along the edges of the channel on crank baits and soft plastics. Bream are still biting fairly shallow on crickets and worms around the lake. Catfishing has been good on set hooks baited with bream with lots of smaller channel catfish caught fishing off the banks with cold worms and night crawlers. For latest reports, call Anderson’s Sport Center at 368-9669 or Honey HoleTackle Shop at 323-8707.

LAKE CLAIBORNE – Catfishing has been good with some nice flatheads caught on stump hooks baited with bream. Crappie are still around the deep tops and hitting shiners and jigs down deep. The bream are around bedding areas and are biting worms and crickets. Some stripers have been schooling with a few caught trolling white bucktails. Bass fishing has been fair this week. For latest information, call Tim Loftin at Kel’s Cove at 927-2264.

1. Latisha Bailey (Hodge, LA) – Disturbing the Peace
2. Brandon Lamkin (Jonesboro, LA) – Arson with intent to defraud, Criminal Conspiracy, Lincoln Parish Warrants
3. Celest Jefferson (Jonesboro, LA) – Possession of Schedule III drug, Warrant
4. Alex Lutrick (Jonesboro, LA) – Possession of Schedule I drug (synthetic)
5. Pamela Lebrun (Jonesboro, LA) – Possession of Schedule IV drug, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Running a stop sign
6. Leonard Roosevelt Jr. (Jonesboro, LA) – Domestic Abuse Battery, Illegal carrying of a weapon
7. Alexander Vines (Jonesboro, LA) – Modified exhaust pipe, Possession of drug paraphernalia
8. Justin Nash (Jonesboro, LA) – Possession of Schedule I drug, No turn signal, No drivers license
9. Shawn Ethan Barr (Quitman, LA) – Failure to appear warrant, Disturbing the peace, modified exhaust pipe

Members of the Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce and guests were treated to a very enjoyable time this last Thursday evening at their annual banquet that was highlighted by having Judge Jay McCallum as special guest speaker.

The event held at the First Baptist Church in Jonesboro Family Life Center began with a “greet and meet” that was followed by current Chamber President Johnny Horton welcoming everyone.  After a delicious supper the much sought after motivational and inspirational speaker, who is a Division A, Second Circuit Court of Appeals Judge, entertained the crowd with his humor and eloquent words of wisdom.

McCallum took his seat on the Second Circuit Court of Appeal on February 1, 2018 after serving as a judge of the Third Judicial District (Lincoln and Union Parishes) for 15 years. Prior to that, he served as an Assistant District Attorney for the Third Judicial District and as a member of the Louisiana House of Representatives from 1992-2002.

Following his address former Chamber president Glen Kirkland and Director Wilda Smith was recognized for their service. The event drew to a close by the awarding of the items that had been purchased through a silent auction and a certificate of appreciation to all sponsors.

Blood Drive set for July 20^th

The Jackson Parish Library (JPL) in connection with the Life Share Blood Center will host a blood drive on Monday, July 20^th from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. Donors not only will receive a Life Share T-Shirt but will also receive a free Coronavirus anti-body test. To make an appointment call 318-259-5697.  

Issac Coldiron wins 2020 Patriotic Art Contest

Quitman High School freshman, Isaac Coldiron has been declared the winner of the 2020 Patriotic Art Contest. The winning piece was an amazing likeness of Isaac’s grandfather, Mr. Glenn Dale Neathery, who served in the Marine Corps in Vietnam from 1968-1970. Visit the JPL for a display of all entries.

Children’s Program offers On-line Art Classes

During the month of August the JPL will offer on-line art classes and provide a packet of materials for each session. Parents or guardians need to come by or call at 318-259-5697 to sign up. Enrollment is capped at 25 and is handled on a first come, first serve basis.

Learning at home educational classes available

By partnering with the Louisiana Public Broadcasting the JPL now has the ability to bring high quality instruction to students and families that has been approved by the Louisiana Department of Education for home learning. Call library for more information or visit the JPL Facebook page. 

A full week of scheduled baseball and softball games resulted in just a handful of contests able to be played as Mother Nature wreaked havoc on the Jackson Parish Recreation Department fields this past week. See below for the scores of the games that were able to be played and the current standing of each league. For complete schedule of upcoming games go online to:  jprec.org

Girls 7 & 8:

1. Johnny’s Pizza 2-0-0
2. Heyhunner 1-0-1
3. Leach Line Drivers 0-1-1
4. Jonesboro State Bank 0-2-2

Scores: Johnny’s Pizza 12 – Leach Line Drivers 8; Heyhunner 15 – Jonesboro State Bank 5

Boys 7 & 8

1. SPS 3-0-0
2. Southern Kustoms 1-0-2
3. Traina’s Bakery 0-2-1
4. Mercy Medical 0-3-0

Scores: SPS 16 – Mercy Medical 9; Southern Kustoms 13 – Traina’s Bakery 12

Girls 9 & 10

1. Extreme Nutrition 3-0-0
2. Leach’s Turf Divas 3-0-0
3. Vanguard Realty 0-3-0
4. Pro Car Sparkle&Shine 0-3-0

Scores: Extreme Nutrition 11 – Pro Car Sparkle&Shine 8; Leach’s Turf Divas 16 – Vanguard Realty 1

Boys 9 & 10

1. Rhodes Farms 2-0-1
2. Southern Kustoms 1-1-1
3. Hodge Bank 0-0-2

Scores: Rhodes Farms 12 – Southern Kustoms 7

Girls 11-13

1. Catfish Inn 3-0-0
2. Listle Real Estate 1-2-0
3. Family Pharmacy 1-2-0

Scores: Catfish Inn 9 – Family Pharmacy 0; Listle Real Estate 9 – Family Pharmacy 3

Boys 11-13

1. Academy Mortgage 2-1-0
2. Jonesboro Glass 2-1-0
3. Pardue Builders 1-2-0
4. Six Point 1-2-0

Scores: Jonesboro Glass 14 – Academy Mortgage 1; Pardue Builders 13 – Six Point 6