There was a large number of voters, in fact a record number, that cast their ballots where residents of Jackson Parish represented a part of a multi-parish judicial district  but the margin of victory in most were very small with the exception of one, especially in the races that involved Jackson Parish residents.

2^nd Judicial District Judge: In the races for the two 2nd Judicial (Jackson, Bienville, Claiborne) District Judge seats and the accompanying District Attorney race the difference was at best roughly 5% with one race seeing only 357 votes separate the two candidates.

Division A: In that one, which was between two Jackson Parish residents vying to replace retiring Judge Jenifer Clauson for the seat of Judge in Division A (Claiborne Parish Courthouse) Walter May won the seat over Darrel Avery. The difference was the 1584 votes that May beat Avery by in Bienville Parish which offset the 1253 advantage Avery had in Jackson Parish. The Claiborne Parish vote was virtually a tie with May earning 26 more ballots.   

                                May                       Avery

Bienville               3,867                     2,283

Claiborne             2,813                     2,787

Jackson                2,921                     4,174

Total                      9,601                     9,244

Division B: The winner of the Division B Judge race (Jackson Parish Courthouse) who will take the place of retiring Judge Jimmie Teat was Bienville Parish native Rick Warren who outpolled Jackson Parish resident Yumeaka Robinson Washington. Warren won Bienville and Claiborne parishes by 426 and 539 votes respectively. Washington polled best in Jackson Parish where she lost by only 108 votes.

                                Warren                 Washington

Bienville               3,471                     3,045

Claiborne             3,244                     2,705

Jackson                3,650                     3,502

Total                      10,365                   9,292

District Attorney – 2^nd Judicial District: In a repeat of the race four years ago Incumbent District Attorney Danny Newell, who resides in Bienville Parish beat Jackson Parish native Chris Bowman. It was a 917 vote advantage in Claiborne Parish that propelled Newman to the victory. Both candidates won their home parishes by similar totals with Newell getting 760 more of the Bienville Parish votes compared to Bowman winning Jackson Parish by 630 votes.

                                Newell                  Bowman

Bienville               3688                       2928

Claiborne             3562                       2645

Jackson                 3297                       3927

Total                      10,547                   9,500

4th Judicial District – Associate Justice of LA Supreme Court: It was the Associate Justice seat in the 4th District of the Louisiana Supreme Court which is made up of 20 northeast/central Louisiana parishes that had the widest margin of victory. That is where Jay McCallum of Farmerville outpolled Shannon Gremillion who hails from Ferriday by a 56.69% – 43.31% advantage with the actual vote total showing 122,443 for McCallum comparted to 93,531 for Gremillion. In Jackson Parish, McCallum won by a count of 4,505 – 2,000.

For the most part residents of the state of Louisiana were in solid agreement on the parish by parish sports wagering proposal and the constitutional options presented to them on the November 3^rd ballot. That can’t be totally said of the residents of Jackson Parish who ended up going against the grain of the state on three of the eight items.

While Jackson Parish voted against allowing sports wagering, residents won’t have to go far if they want to place a bet once the system is in place. There are several parishes nearby available such neighboring Bienville, Lincoln and Ouachita. Actually, 56 of the 64 parishes in the state approved to allow sports wagering.   

There were also two constitutional amendments that received a solid majority of YES votes throughout the state but had more NO votes in Jackson Parish. Below is a full recap on the Constitutional amendments and proposition voting results statewide and in Jackson Parish

#1 – Declare no right to and no funding of Abortion in the LA constitution.

Statewide                           Yes         1,275,112             No          778,973

Jackson Parish                                   5,545                                     1,843

#2 – Amends determination of fair market value of oil or gas well.

Statewide                           Yes         1,158,710             No          827,491

Jackson Parish                                   3,556                                     3,618

#3 – Amends use of budget stabilization fund

Statewide                           Yes         1,097,144             No          885,279

Jackson Parish                                   3,443                                     3,726

#4 – Limit expenditure limit for state general fund

Statewide                           Yes         856,529                 No          1,079,571

Jackson Parish                                   2,965                                     4,077

#5 – Authorizes cooperative endeavor tax measures

Statewide                           Yes         727,345                 No          1,221,197

Jackson Parish                                   2,654                                     4,394

#6 – Increases income limit for homestead exemption special assessment level

Statewide                           Yes         1,225,629             No          745,995

Jackson Parish                                   4,321                                     2,826

#7 – Creates Louisiana unclaimed property permanent trust fund

Statewide                           Yes         1,267,363             No          702,900

Jackson Parish                                   4,208                                     2,880

Act 215, 2020 – Authorize Sports Wagering Activities in Jackson Parish

YES         3,483

NO         3,580

 

It is called the second season and for Jonesboro-Hodge it begins this Friday night when the Tigers venture to Farmerville to play D’Arbonne Woods in the district 1-2A opener for both teams. Game time is set for 7:00 pm.

The contest is not only the first district game of the year for the Tigers it also marks the first time in head coach Terrance Blankenship’s eight year tenure that J-H, which has a 2-2 season record, begins district play not having a losing record. That along with the fact that even though the Tigers got beat by Class 4A Huntington last week played possibly their best ball of the season has Blankenship optimistic about the Tigers chances of getting off to a good start in 1-2A play. 

“This is the time of the year that we all point to,” said Blankenship. “Even though in the LHSAA system power points carry more weight in the playoff seeding than district titles when it is all said and done you always want to be known as a district champion. I believe our coaches have done a good job in preparing our guys for the next three games.”

Series history! Jonesboro-Hodge, who was the very first opponent D’Arbonne Woods ever played in varsity competition in 2015, has a 3-0 all-time advantage over one of Louisiana’s newest programs now going on their sixth year of competition. Last year D’Arbonne Woods was Homecoming fodder for the Tigers who won by a 66-6 margin, easily their best win of the year.

D’Arbonne Woods to date! This year D’Arbonne Woods, who has won only six games over the last four years after winning five in their inaugural season comes into the contest with a 1-3 mark under head coach Thomas McBroom but has done a good job in holding opponents to low scoring totals.

After beginning the year with a 28-6 loss to Class 4A Northwood, D’Arbonne Woods rallied to beat Beekman Charter by a 36-30 score. A 14-0 loss to new LHSAA member River Oaks was followed by a 20-0 setback to Class 2A Lakeview out of Campti.

While the defense has for the most part kept D’Arbonne Woods close to their opponents offensive production has been the bane so far this season as they average only 163.8 yards per contest and scored only six touchdowns. Five of those came in their only victory and D-Woods is currently on a nine quarter failure to score string.

What offense they have been able to produce has been fueled by senior QB Luke Chapman who leads the team with 215 yards passing and 98 yards rushing. Junior Gavin Rawls leads the team in rushing with 192 yards in three games which comes to a 64 yards per game average. Junior Alden Auger is the leading receiver with 134 yards on 7 receptions.

JHHS to date! Conversely it is the Tigers defense that has been the bug-a-boo. J-H comes into the district opener after giving up 107 points in their last three games, two of which were losses. Offense has been no problem at all as J-H is averaging 302.50 yards per game. This is broken down into 165.21 yards per game rushing and 137.25 yards per game passing.

Tydre Malone has completed 29 of 63 passes for 549 yards with 6 TD’s while the thunder and lightning combination of tailbacks Brantrel Thompson and LaJavion Nichols has accounted for 341 and 243 yards respectively with a combined 7 touchdowns.

Justin Calahan, who also has 2 special teams scores, including a new JHHS school record 94 yard punt return for a score last week, leads the receiving corp with 9 catches for 159 yards and 3 TD’s.  Close behind in yardage is JaMarriyea Lewis who has 153 yards on 5 grabs for an outstanding 30 yard per catch average. DaTrevien Bowie is also averaging over 30 yards per catch with 94 yards on 3 receptions. Devontae Mozee has corralled two touchdowns as well.

Defensively middle linebacker LaJavion Nichols is one of the leading tacklers in north Louisiana after averaging nearly 14 tackles per game that includes 6 tackles for a loss. JaMarriyea Lewis leads the team with 2 interceptions while freshman Xavier Atkins and senior Connor Webb have one sack apiece.

Keys to victory!

1. Don’t be overconfident! Just because the Tigers won 66-6 last year and have never lost to D’Arbonne Woods in school history J-H must play to their potential.
2. Continue to improve! J-H showed tremendous improvement last week. If they are going to be a district title contender they must continue to do so each week.
3. Playmakers must make plays! J-H has a decided talent advantage this week but that only helps if the playmakers do what they are capable of.

Prediction!

Flip the script this week. Last week J-H wasn’t expected to win. This week they are. The Tigers played well in the underdog role. The question now is how willl they do as a solid favorite? The guess here is that Blankenship and staff has J-H ready to peak at the right time.   JHHS 48   D’Arbonne Woods 6

By: Glynn Harris

With the pandemic and political unrest festering across the world, it may be difficult to even think about finding fun things to do. Nasty stuff is going on that is causing us to focus on just keeping our heads above water and doing our best not to let negatives take over.

It’s time to take a deep breath and realize that we’re still who we were prior to the anxiety and concern caused by the spread of COVID. It’s time to think about relaxing and calming activities, things like hunting and fishing.

Deer season is going full swing in Louisiana and scores of hunters are relaxing and enjoying just being out in the woods and at least for a little while becoming one with nature.

Then there is fishing. Although bluegills have slowed down quite a bit here in early November, other species are still going strong. Bass fishermen are enjoying the thrill of playing games with their favorite fish. One of the more popular species is crappie. With weather transitioning from hot to warm; from cool to cold, what is the best way to find and catch these popular fish that are now on the move?

Louisiana Tech graduate, Jerry Thompson, founder and owner of Living The Dream Guide Service on Toledo Bend knows that to provide success and ample action to satisfy the one thing that keeps him in business, that being his customers, his guides have to keep up with the crappie as they make their move from where they were a month ago to where they are now and where they’ll be a month from now.

“As water temperatures slowly drop, crappie are making their move. They are pretty much gone from the brush piles that attracted them all summer as they make their way to their winter habitat in the deeper channels. To be honest, fishing is generally tougher until they get to where they’ll be spending the winter,” Thompson said.

Thompson said that anytime they start migrating, there are certain areas along the migration route that his guides target.

“We’ll start picking up fish around the bridges and points. You won’t catch the numbers you would when in summer the fish are bunched up around brush. You pick up a few in one spot and move to another to catch a few more. Our guides just keep on the move to pick up some here and there but we have found that this time of year, the crappie we catch tend to be larger,” he said.

Thompson started his guide service twenty years ago on Toledo Bend at the urging of some friends he had taken fishing who saw the potential he had to make such a venture pay off.

“This February 20 years ago, I bit the bullet, sold everything I owned, bought me an old 30 foot travel trailer. I set myself up to be able to make it a couple of years just to see if I could make it work. I actually came to Toledo Bend to guide bass fishermen because fishing for bass was my first love. It didn’t take me long to realize there was a market for guiding crappie fishermen,” Thompson continued.

“I decided to give it a shot, bought an old pontoon boat and started taking groups of people. Crappie fishing was the key to our having the success we are now experiencing.”

Today, Thompson’s business features 12 guides that serve both bass and crappie clients. He is in the process of constructing a marina off Highway 6 on the lake.

“It went from a dream to what we have today,” he said. “It’s pretty awesome to actually be doing something you envisioned and seeing it work out the way it has. This is why the name of my business, Living The Dream Guide Service, is so appropriate; it’s pretty awesome.”

To contact Thompson, go to ltdguideservice@gmail.com.

FISHING REPORT – 11-4-20

BUSSEY BRAKE – Bass fishing has been good this week with quite a few caught on spinners and crank baits chasing shad around the pads . Crappie fishing is fair around deep water off the boat dock on shiners or jigs. A few bream are being reported. No report on catfish. For latest information, contact the Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707.

BLACK BAYOU –  Bass are fair around the grass on jigs and soft plastics. Bream and crappie are slow. Contact Honey Hole Tackle Shop 323-8707 for latest information.

OUACHITA RIVER – Bass have been fair fishing shad imitation lures around the mouth of the cuts. Crappie have been best fishing the river lakes on jigs with Green Banana, Cajun Cricket and Silver Shad working best. For latest information, contact the Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707.

LAKE D’ARBONNE – The lake level has risen after recent rains. Reports are that gates have been opened again to get water levels down to drawdown level. Crappie have been fair in the channel fishing 15-18 feet deep in the deeper holes. A variety of hair jigs have picked up some fish. Bass are in the channels with crank baits and soft plastics picking up some. A few bream have been caught deep on night crawlers. Catfishing is good on cold worms and night crawlers.. For latest reports, call Anderson’s Sport Center at 368-9669 or Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707.

LAKE CLAIBORNE – Bass fishing has been good on the drop-offs along channel edges with some to 3 and 4 pounds caught on crank baits. The crappie bite has slowed with a few caught around the deep tops on shiners or jigs. Striper fishing has slowed down while catfishing has been good on trotlines baited with chicken livers or blood bait. Bream are slow. For latest information, call Tim Loftin at Kel’s Cove at 927-2264.

CANEY LAKE – Bass fishing has been best in the deeper channels on drop-shot rigs and swim baits. Some have also been caught around the grass on Flukes with lots of average sized bass caught. Schools of shad have moved into the grass and the bass have followed them in. Crappie continue to be fair to good on shiners or jigs fished around the deeper tops with the Double Silver Rainbow, Blue Thunder, Blue Chrome and Lights Out working best. No report on bream or catfish. 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.

LAKE POVERTY POINT – Crappie are slightly improved around the boat slips especially early mornings and late afternoons on jigs. Catfishing has been good with a 18 pound blue cat reported. For latest reports, call Poverty Point Marina at 318-878-0101.

LAKE ST. JOHN – Bass fishing has been fair; catfishing is fair while bream and crappie are slow. For information, call Ken Mahoney at 318-201-3821.

LAKE YUCATAN – The water is rising rapidly and fishing has come to a standstill. For information, call Surplus City Landing at 318/467-2259.

LAKE BRUIN – Bass, crappie, bream, stripers and catfish are all slow this week. For information, contact Carlos Gray at 318/766-0075.

Ask any coach and they will tell you there is no such thing as a “moral victory”. Still Jonesboro-Hodge head coach Terrance Blankenship wasn’t too upset about the Tigers 30-26 loss against Class 4A Huntington this past Friday night.

“I am not happy that we lost this game as it was one we could have won,” said Blankenship. “Still I am happy with our effort. Huntington has a very good team with a lot of college prospects and we played them basically even. The only difference in the game was a couple of two point conversions.”

The loss dropped the Tigers to 2-2 on the season in their final tune-up before district 1-2A play begins while Huntington, who is listed in the LSWA Class 4A poll as receiving votes, improved to 4-1 on the season.

There were several positives that the Tigers can draw upon from the game. The first was the play of the special teams which allowed J-H to take an initial lead for the first time all season following a first quarter 94 yard punt return by Justin Calahan and the ensuing two point conversion to give J-H an 8-0 lead after one period of play.

RECORD BREAKER! The return was the second of the year for Calahan, the first being a 70 yard, kickoff return for a score in the season opener against Delta Charter. More importantly the 94 yard return is the longest ever in the 101 year history of Tiger football surpassing the former long of 90 yards set by Morris Douglas in 1988 against Jena.

“We normally don’t like our returners to field a ball inside the 10 yard line, said Blankenship with a chuckle. “It was the kind of play where I was like don’t…. don’t…. Go Justin Go!!! To his credit he has great field vision, thought he had a chance to make a big play and ended up taking it to the house.”

SEASON LONG RUSING TD! Another positive was the performance turned in by power back LaJavion Nichols who rushed for 101 yards on 13 carries including a 67 yard sprint that gave the Tigers a 14-8 lead in the second quarter.

“We knew LaJavion had the potential to have this kind of game,” said Blankenship. “He has given us a good effort each game but in all the others the defense would key on him. I am glad to see him finally have a chance to show what he can do.”

BACK AND FORTH SECOND QUARTER! After Nichols scored Huntington answered with a score to take a 16-14 lead. J-H then responded with the first of Tydre Malone’s two TD passes when he hit Calahan for his second score of the game to give J-H a 20-16 lead. Huntington then took A 22-20 halftime lead following their second straight 18 yard completion for a touchdown.

SEASON LONG PASSING TD! For the second time in three weeks the Tigers were trailing by double digits late in the game only to make a last ditch rally. Unfortunately this time it wasn’t enough to steal a victory like against Rosepine but it did result in the longest passing touchdown of the season when Devonatae Mozee took a Malone aerial 58 yards to paydirt to narrow the margin to the final 30-26 score.

“We hit on several long plays in the game,” said Blankenship. “When we play error free football we can be dangerous.”

DEFENSIVE ADJUSTMENTS PAY OFF! It may not look like it judging by the 30 points the Tigers gave up but the defense played much better following the 41 and 36 points given up in the previous two games. One of the big reasons was the adjustments made by defensive coordinator Carlos Hicks who moved some people around and introduced a freshman to the mix.

Freshman Xavier Atkins who got his first extended look of the season led the team with 9 tackles and 4 assists including a sack and a tackle for a loss. Also coming up big was Manuel Hernandez who was moved to outside linebacker. LaJavion Nichols continued his good play at middle linebacker with 7 tackles and 4 assists as well as a tackle for a loss. Ed’Tavious Drayton added six stops.

“We still have some things to clean up but overall we made some good strides on both sides of the ball this week to become the team we want to be,” recapped Blankenship. “I am excited about where we are heading into district play.”

JHHS (2-2)    6          14       0          6 – 26

HHS (4-1)     0          22       0          8 –  30

Scoring:

1^st Quarter:

JHHS – Justin Calahan 94 yard punt return (2 pt. conversion)

2^nd Quarter:

Huntington – 5 yard run (2 pt. conversion)

JHHS – LaJavion Nichols 67 yard run (2 pt. conversion NG)

Huntington – 18 yard pass (2 pt. conversion)

JHHS – Justin Calahan 26 yard pass from Tydre Malone (2 pt. conversion NG)

Huntington – 18 yard pass (2 pt. conversion NG)

4^th Quarter:

Huntington – 6 yard pass (2 pt. conversion NG)

JHHS – Devontae Mozee 58 yard pass from Tydre Malone (2 pt. conversion NG)

JHHS passing stats:

Tydre Malone    7/20       185 yards             2 TD’s

JHHS rushing stats:

LaJavion Nichols               13/101  1 TD

Justin Calahan                   2/10

Ed’Tavious Drayton         5/4

Tydre Malone                    4/(-4)

JHHS receiving stats:

Devontae Mozee             1/58       1 TD

JaMarriyea Lewis              1/45

Justin Calahan                   2/32       1 TD

Cornelius Boston              1/24

DaTrevien Bowie              1/17

LaJavion Nichols               1/9

JHHS Tackles:

Xavier Atkins                      9 tackles              4 assists               1 sack    1 tackle for a loss

LaJavion Nichols               7 tackles              4 assists                               1 tackle for a loss

Ed’Tavious Drayton         6 tackles              1 assist

Jamarriyea Lewis              5 tackles               2 assists

Manual Hernandez         4 tackles

 

 

 

Just after 9:00 p.m. on Sunday night, December 8, 1963, nineteen-year-old Wayne and twenty-four-year-old John were enjoying dinner in Wayne’s room of the South Lodge, a motel in Lake Tahoe on the California-Nevada border.  They were performers in the world-renowned Tommy Dorsey Orchestra and were due to take the stage at 10:00 p.m.  While eating, someone knocked on the door and announced, “Room service.  I’ve got a package for you.”  Without a second thought, Wayne got up from the table and walked to the door.  He turned the handle on the door and two gun-wielding men burst into the room.  The armed men told Wayne and John to keep quiet and forced them to the floor.  “Where’s the money?” they asked.  Wayne and John only had $12 in cash between them.  The men took the $12.00 and ransacked the room in search of more money.  When they failed to find the large amount of money that they had expected, one of the men bound John’s wrists with adhesive tape, then taped his mouth shut.  They taped Wayne’s hands but not his mouth.  One of the men told John “You stay there for ten minutes and don’t make any moves if you want to see the kid again.”  The other man forced Wayne out of the motel room.  As they men left the room, John heard one of them tell a third person, “We’ve got him.  We’ve got to get to Sacramento.”  John, still on the floor, heard a car crank up and drive away into a snowstorm.  He heard the unmistakable sound of snow chains on the car.

As soon as John could no longer hear the car he worked his way free and notified police.  John gave investigators a description of two of the kidnappers.  John never saw the third man.  Within ten minutes of the kidnapping, police had roadblocks all around the area.  Several of the roads were blocked by the heavy snow, which limited the number of routes the kidnappers were able to take.  The snow also hindered the policemen’s ability to search for Wayne and his abductors.  Deputies armed with pistols and sawed-off shotguns searched all of the empty summer homes they could get to in the area, but found no trace of Wayne or the kidnappers.

Wayne’s father flew to Lake Tahoe to assist in the investigation in case the kidnappers called with a ransom demand.  On the following afternoon, Wayne’s father received a telephone call from one of the kidnappers.  The kidnapper told Wayne’s father to go to a specific service station in Reno, Nevada, about forty miles northeast of Lake Tahoe, and wait by the pay phone booth for a call.  Wayne’s father was concerned that he would have to call the kidnappers from a pay phone at some point and made sure he kept ten dimes in his pocket.  At the time, a local telephone call cost just ten cents.  At the gas station in Reno, Wayne’s father waited as instructed. 

Minutes seemed like hours as Wayne’s father anxiously awaited the call.  Finally, the phone rang.  Wayne’s father told the kidnapper that he wanted to speak with his son to ensure that he was okay.  The kidnapper allowed Wayne and his father to speak briefly.  The kidnapper told Wayne’s father to get $240,000 and go to Wayne’s mother’s house.  (Wayne’s parents were divorced.)  Adjusted for inflation, $240,000 in 1963 would be over $2,000,000 today.  The kidnapper also demanded that law enforcement officers in California and Nevada relax their roadblocks so that they could return Wayne after the ransom had been paid.  Wayne’s father agreed to the ransom demand and immediately left for Wayne’s mother’s house in Los Angeles.  Wayne’s father joined his mother, who had been waiting impatiently by the telephone.  Finally, the phone rang.  The kidnappers allowed Wayne’s father to speak to Wayne again.  Once Wayne assured them that he was okay, Wayne’s father agreed to give the kidnappers the money in exchange for Wayne’s safe return.

With the help of the FBI, Wayne’s father gathered the $240,000 in fives, tens, fifties, and hundred-dollar bills.  Twice more, the kidnappers had Wayne’s father go to service station pay phones for instructions.  Wayne’s father kept checking to be sure he always had ten dimes in his pocket.  Finally, the kidnappers told Wayne’s father where to leave the money.  An FBI agent acted as courier and delivered the money as the kidnappers had instructed.  Wayne’s parents waited by the phone.  They clung to the hope that the kidnappers would follow through with their part of the deal and release Wayne unharmed. 

Finally, the phone rang.  Three days had passed since the kidnapping.  One of the kidnappers told Wayne’s father that they had dropped Wayne off at the intersection of Mulholland Drive and the freeway in Los Angeles.  Wayne’s father and a myriad of law enforcement officers and agents raced to the area.  They searched but found no trace of Wayne.  The kidnappers had dropped Wayne off at the location they told Wayne’s father, but fearing the kidnappers would return, Wayne ran as soon as they let him out of the trunk.  He ran about two miles from the drop-off location and hid each time he heard a car approaching.

George C. Jones of the Bel Air Patrol, a private security service for exclusive homes in the area, heard someone shout from the darkness behind his car.  He looked back and saw a young man standing on the street with a blindfold dangling from his neck.  It was Wayne.  The security officer knew reporters were surrounding Wayne’s mother’s house.  Rather than riding up front in the car with the security officer in full view of the press, Wayne opted to ride in the trunk.  After three days of riding in trunks, Wayne agree to one more short trunk ride.  The officer drove through the crowd of unsuspecting reporters and through the gate surrounding Wayne’s mother’s house.  Once they were out of view from the press, Wayne emerged from the trunk.  Wayne saw his father first and said, “Father, I’m sorry.”  “Sorry?  Sorry for what?” his father replied.  Wayne’s father reassured him that he did nothing wrong.  Wayne hugged his mother as she cried tears of relief.  “Don’t cry, mother.  I’m well, I’m in good shape.” 

After their reunion, Wayne’s father spoke with reporters about the kidnapping and told them that the following day, December 12, was his 46^th birthday.  “This is about as good a birthday present as I could ask.”  For the rest of Wayne’s father’s life, he carried ten dimes in his pocket just in case of emergencies.  On May 18, 1998, thirty-five years after the kidnapping, Wayne’s father died of a heart attack.  He still had ten dimes in his pocket.  At the funeral, Wayne’s father was buried with a few of his favorite things which included a bottle of Jack Daniel’s Whiskey, a pack of Camel cigarettes, a Zippo lighter, and ten dimes.  Wayne’s father was one of the most famous actors, producers, and singers of the twentieth century.  Wayne was an actor, bandleader, and singer in his own right.  Wayne, who went by Frank Jr., shared his father’s first and last name, Frank Sinatra.

Sources:

1. Nevada State Journal, December 9, 1963, p.1.
2. Reno Gazette-Journal, December 9, 1963, p.1.
3. Nevada State Journal, December 10, 1963, p.1.
4. Reno Gazette-Journal, December 11, 1963, p.1.
5. The Billings Gazette, May 24, 1998, p.2.

Citizens can now take a much-needed break from the hype, drama and tension associated with the 2020 Election process that has kept citizens on the edge of their seats for the past several weeks.  AMERICA HAS SPOKEN, and it is time to focus on the predicament and dire conditions the nation faces and finds itself currently involved in, a nation where thousands of American citizens are dying daily from COVID 19, hundreds of citizens are being evicted from their homes and apartments due to soaring unemployment, where food lines are stretching for miles and where families are hungry, children are going to bed each night with little or no food to eat.

The 2020 presidential election was an event that chronicled a historical moment in American history where over one million citizens voted early.  It was also an election that mesmerized and captivated the attention of citizens for much too long and most Americans could not wait for closure to an event that had become one of the most divisive and  polarizing moments in American history, the likes of which had never been seen or hope to see ever again.  Yes, the 2020 elections were truly about redeeming the soul of America.  Protesters of all colors, genders, religion, young and old, from across the nation have united and are demanding answers to  questions such as what plan and strategy does the nation have for defeating COVID 19, what are the plans for handling and fixing soaring unemployment, addressing issues of racial injustice and inequality, overhauling the nation’s broken criminal justice system, mandating quality health care for all, attacking voter suppression issues, advent of white supremacy groups, tackling issues of foreign government interference with our national and local elections, enacting a national mandate to wear masks to protect others, addressing income disparities, and immigration reform just to name a few of the  issues that the nation can no longer ignore and dismiss through wishful thinking. 

We have and are experiencing over 90,000 COVID 19 infections per day and have witnessed thousands of citizens dying daily from this deadly virus.  We have heard too many citizens saying “what the heck, we are done with this COVID virus and I will live my life as I choose”. As Christian brothers and sisters, we are to be reminded of the lessons taught to young Timothy by the seasoned apostle Paul which is believed to be good therapy and instructions for today’s multitudes.  Paul cautioned Timothy that the time will come when people will not endure sound doctrine.  They will chase after those spiritual leaders who will indulge their flesh, materialism, and lusts.  They will turn to fables.  They will not glorify God, nor be thankful to Him.  They will not even retain God in their knowledge.  We are living in moments where citizens have itching ears to hear things that suit their fantasies, (oh the virus will soon be gone, we are turning the curve on COVID, you do not have to wear masks) for they no longer long for the truth, they prefer to follow untrained leaders whose eyes are blinded from the truth, the wolves in sheep clothing, rather than following the hard sciences and the health experts.  These followers are many who are determined to live their lives the way they choose even if it means harming others.  They have become pleasure and greed seekers.

No one really knew how the Presidential election  was going to turn out but many felt that whatever the outcome, this nation, America, needs to repent, fall on its knees and began to pray mightily for deliverance and the ability to keep step with God’s word and commands if it (America) is to survive and prosper.  We are presently in a war for survival.  We are a divided nation a nation that needs healing, a nation facing enemies on every hand.  Elderly folks would often be heard to comment “if it’s not one thing it’s another.”  In this war for survival we must fight to win, fight for our values, fight for justice, fight to break down the walls and barriers that divide the nation, fight not to grow weary, not to faint, and fight with all the spiritual strength and armor that we can summon to do God’s will.

Citizens must know that the battle that they are fighting is not against fellow citizens, but with and against principalities, powers, rulers of darkness of this world, and spiritual wickedness found in high places.  In this crisis moment and this war for survival, among the many enemies we face, we must acknowledge that we can become our own worst enemy fighting like a man beating the air.  Therefore, in this war for survival and the soul of America we must maintain mastery over self, doing things not our way but God’s way.  Moreover, there can be no retreat from a mandate to meet the great challenges of this decisive hour, that of coming to the aid of justice.

The nation is racing against time during an era when mountains of events are being swirled and thrust upon it.  Fellow citizens we must do God’s work today, the work of being just with one another, providing opportunities for all, doing unto others as we would have them to do unto us, casting our differences into yonder sea of forgetfulness.  Let us be about the business and work of loving and forgiving one another as Christ Jesus loves and forgives us.  Why?  Because God’s word reminds us that night will come when no man can work.

O God, please save America, is our prayer.  Trouble our hearts, conscience and spirits as never before to walk upright before thee and our fellow man, deliver us from the mean and evil spirit that is echoing across the land, from the inexpressible hostility and shameful racial divide that is engulfing and sweeping across the nation.  America must no longer tolerate poor citizens be they black, white, brown, or yellow who are noticeably being bound by chains of poverty while in the midst of an affluent society.  Convict America to break from the status quo and to move with expediency to join a new peaceful, non-violent  movement to save our nation and once and for all to live up to the true meaning of an ideology forged and etched in the nation’s declaration of independence.  Why?  Because all destiny is tied up with America’s destiny.  

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.

As a member of the Board of Aldermen, Gregory Harris has been involved with decisions for the Town of Chatham for a long time. As result of the election this past Tuesday he will continue to make a difference for eastern Jackson Parish residents only he will now be sitting in a different chair – the one reserved for the Mayor.

Chatham residents were obviously pleased with the past work done by Harris as a councilman and the direction that he now has planned for the town as he took 141 of the 230 votes cast to outpoll the former Mayor Dwight Cooper (55 votes) and political newcomer Ashlay Blanco who ended with 34 votes.   

A new Board of Aldermen was also elected in Chatham where six candidates were vying for five seats. Laverne Mixon was the top vote getter with 149 ballots earned followed by Mike Wilson (107), Marvin A. Davis (102), Sue Proffer (101) and Tonja “Toni” Malone (94). Brian Blanco was the odd man out with 68 votes.

In the two races for the Justice of the Peace both victors won by landslides. In District C it was Eddie Waggoner who gained 1677 of the 2114 votes cast with Matt Palmer coming in a distant second with 256 votes. John Mize was named on 191 ballots.  In other Ronnie Clay Madere beat Tommy Faber by a 788-161 margin to claim the District A seat.

1. Krystal M Melton (Winnfield, LA) – Possession of Schedule II controlled dangerous substance
2. Justin J Nash (Jonesboro, LA) – Possession of stolen items, Contributing to the delinquency of a juvenile, Simple criminal damage, Aggravated battery
3. Alex E Gray (Jonesboro, LA) – Possession of marijuana
4. Brandon T Lewis (Jonesboro, LA) – Warrant for possession of Schedule I synthetic, littering
5. Quindraties Collins (Jonesboro, LA) – Expired license plates, No drives license
6. Tina H Jackson (Jonesboro, LA) – Theft of a motor vehicle, Simple burglary x2
7. Darius P Lawson (Jonesboro, LA) – Warrant for execution of sentence, driving under suspension, speeding
8. Beverly A Belton (Quitman, LA) – DWI (3^rd offense), Improper lane usage, Display plates, Interlock required
9. Brandon C White (Brandon, MS) – Unauthorized entry of inhabited building, Simple battery
10. Caleb E Harvey (Jonesboro, LA) – Cultivation of Marijuana, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of drug paraphernalia, Illegal carrying of weapon in presence of drugs
11. Deanna M Harris (Jonesboro, LA) – Criminal conspiracy to cultivate marijuana, Illegal carrying of weapons in presence of drugs
12. Teresa Ellis (Jonesboro, LA) – Driving under suspended license, Careless Operation
13. Alicia J Wiggins (Hodge, LA) – Theft of goods x 2

JACKSON PARISH POLICE JURY SPECIAL SESSION MEETING MINUTES

The Jackson Parish Police Jury met in Special Session, Friday, October 30, 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, Ms. Tarneshala Cowans, Ms. Regina Rowe, and Mr. Lynn Treadway. Absent: Mr. Lewis Chatham and Mr. John McCarty.

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

There were no public comments.

The Jury discussed the 2020 Veterans Event. Ms. Cowans arrived at the meeting. Ms. Rowe stated that she had talked to veterans in her district and they had concerns about an event in the midst of a pandemic. They Jury discussed the rising cases of COVID-19 in Jackson Parish. Ms. Magee stated that most of the local veterans are in the high-risk age group. No action was taken for the 2020 event.

Motion Ms. Cowans, seconded Ms. Rowe to enter into Executive Session to discuss the Office of Emergency Preparedness Director and the pending litigation vs. Giambrone. Motion carried unanimously. Motion Mr. Culpepper, seconded Ms. Rowe to exit Executive Session with no action being taken. Motion carried.

Motion Ms. Rowe, seconded Mr. Treadway to re-classify Mr. Mark Treadway as a salaried Police Jury employee effective immediately with his pay remaining unchanged and to modify the current EMPG grant to request reimbursement for the items needed to set up a new Emergency Operating Center (EOC) at the Police Jury Administrative Building. Motion carried with Mr. Culpepper voting “Nay” due to his request that the Police Jury receive written notification from GOHSEP that the changes would be approved.

Motion Mr. Culpepper, seconded Ms. Rowe to affirm the settlement offer of the pending litigation with Ms. Giambrone with the request that the insurance agency try to negotiate a reduced amount. Motion carried.

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

 

Jackson Parish Police Jury Operations Committee meeting minutes

The Operations Committee met Thursday, October 29, 2020 at 2:00 PM in the Police Jury Meeting Room of the Jackson Parish Courthouse, 500 E. Court Street, Room 301, Jonesboro, Louisiana. Members present: Ms. Amy Magee, Mr. Lewis Chatham, and Mr. Lynn Treadway. Absent: none. Also in attendance: Mr. Robin Sessions, Solid Waste Superintendent.

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 were no public comments.

The Committee reviewed the proposed agreement with Union Parish for dumping fees. Ms. Magee stated that they kept the cost per ton the same as 2020 and there were no other changes from the existing contract. Mr. Treadway stated the contract is for 3 years with a two year extension. Motion Mr. Treadway, seconded Mr. Chatham to recommend the Jury authorize the President to execute the Cooperative Endeavor Agreement with Union Parish for dumping fees. Motion carried.

The Committee reviewed the recommendations from the Finance Committee. Ms. Magee stated that she would like to see the Finance Committee meeting with the municipalities as soon as possible so that all involved parties understand the financial impacts of the department programs.

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

 

Jackson Parish Police Jury Business Session Meeting Minutes

The Jackson Parish Police Jury met in Business Session Monday, November 2, 2020 at 5:15 PM at the Dr. Charles H. Garrett Community Center, Jonesboro, Louisiana. Members present: Ms. Amy Magee, Mr. John McCarty, and Mr. Lynn Treadway. Absent: Mr. Todd Culpepper, Mr. Lewis Chatham, Ms. Tarneshala Cowans, and Ms. Regina Rowe. Also in attendance: Mr. Darrell Avery, Assistant D.A.

There being no quorum, no action was taken for the meeting, but the members present proceeded with the following discussion:

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

There were no public comments.

The President invited Mr. Chad Parker with Inspections Unlimited to present to the Police Jury regarding the building permit process in Jackson Parish.

Mr. Parker explained his role as Certified Building Official for Jackson Parish. He updated the Jury on issues with other inspectors in the parish not following the state regulations according to the Uniform Building Code. He requested that the Jury amend the Building Code Ordinance to include a section that states that any inspector found to be in violation of the state uniform building code three times (including for error or falsifying a document), they will no longer be allowed to inspect in Jackson Parish. The President thanked Mr. Parker for sharing the information and requested that the amendment be presented to the Policy & Personnel Committee.

The President called for Committee Reports.

Ms. Magee, Chairman of the Operations Committee, provided a summary of the October 21st and 29th meetings.

The Jury reviewed the Committee recommendations for Canard, Ironwood, Mary West, Burney, Culpepper, Cypress Branch, Bill Cole Loop, Branch Creek, Tree Lane, Jade, and Thunder roads. No changes were made to these recommendations.

The Jury reviewed the 2021-2023 Road Priority Lists with no changes or comments.

The Jury reviewed the schedule for traffic counters to be used for one week on all parish roads over the next three years.

The Jury reviewed the information regarding debris cleanup on private roads and discussed the new information from FEMA regarding the 100% match for 30 days of the cleanup.

The Jury reviewed the Cooperative Endeavor Agreement with Union Parish for dumping fees. Ms. Magee noted that they did not increase their prices.

The Secretary-Treasurer gave a summary of the October 22nd and 29th Finance Committee meetings.

The Secretary-Treasurer reviewed the proposed budgets for the Road, Asphalt, Sales Tax, and Current Year Road Project funds.

The Jury reviewed the proposed 2020 Recreation Department budget and the proposed 2020 Library budget.

The Jury reviewed the recommendations regarding the Solid Waste Department.

The Secretary-Treasurer stated that the bonding attorney confirmed that the Police Jury has authority to levy an additional 1% sales tax if approved through an election.

With the conclusion of Committee Reports, the President moved on to Continued Business.

The Jury reviewed the status of committee assignments. Ms. Magee requested that the Policy & Personnel Committee meet to review the Building Code Ordinance, the Personnel Policy, the Sandbag Policy, the Setup Policy, the Community Center Rental Contract, and the Municode ordinance review.

The Jury reviewed the nominees and actions needed for parish board appointments.

The President moved to New Business.

The Jury reviewed the letter of request from the School Board for labor and equipment to make repairs for the Quitman parking lot.

The President opened the floor for discussion of other topics.

The President opened the floor for announcements and notifications.

Ms. Magee announced that due to the current rise in COVID cases in Jackson Parish and because of the safety concerns for the high-risk age group of most veterans, the Police Jury would not be hosting their annual Veterans Event this year.

Ms. Magee announced that the Police Jury will host a Disaster Recovery Event for the Solid Waste, Road, Maintenance, and Administration departments on December 2nd and they will have a speaker to discuss actions, mindsets, and attitudes during disasters.

Ms. Magee requested that Mr. Sessions gather comparison pricing for commercial garbage fees so that they can send the information in a notice to the customers.

Mr. McCarty stated that he would like to get a head start for 2021 for cleanup programs for the parish.

Ms. Magee announced that DEQ had visited the Jackson Parish Landfill and that the regional director stated he would like to use our landfill as a model C&D landfill for the state.

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

 

Town of Jonesboro Board of Alderman Meeting Minutes

Thursday, October 15, 2020

Call of order: The meeting was called to order by Mayor Leslie Thompson at 11 A. M.

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

Invocation was conducted by Ginn. Pledge of Allegiance was conducted by Stringer.

Public Comments: There were no comments made.

Adoption of Ordinance #2020-012: Flowers made a motion to adopt Ordinance #2020-012, Ginn seconded. After brief discussion a vote was taken. Johnson-Yes, Ginn-No, Stringer-Yes, and Flowers-Yes. Motion carried.

705 Leon Dr.: Mayor Thompson read over the lawsuit regarding 705 Leon Dr. and the settlement the Town had made. James Bradford came forward and expressed his concerns with this matter. Johnson asked the Town Attorney many questions about the lawsuit.  The Town Attorney gave his opinion to the Council and the Mayor as to what the Town should do next in this matter.

Council Comments: Comments were expressed.

Mayor Comments: Comments were expressed.

Adjournment: Flowers made a motion to adjourn the meeting, seconded by Stringer. Motion carried.

 

Town of Jonesboro Board of Alderman Meeting Minutes

Thursday, October 13, 2020

Call of order: The meeting was called to order by Mayor Leslie Thompson at 5:45 P.M for the public hearing. Roll Call: Johnson-Present, Flowers-Present, Ginn-Present, Siadek-Present, and Stringer-Present.

Invocation was conducted by Flowers. Pledge of Allegiance was conducted by Stringer.

Ordinance #2020-012 Hazard/Comp. Pay Salary Employees’: Mayor Thompson read the Ordinance to inform the public. There were no comments made regarding the ordinance.

Mayor Thompson called the regular meeting to order at 6 P.M. 

Public Comments: There were no comments made.

Katrina Branson briefly went over all the programs and events that the new Out Reach Center on Leon Drive would be offering the town.

Presentation: Johnson presented Ciera Murphy with a “Life Saving” award. She received this award for her life saving measures she showed during a shooting in August.

Approval of September 8th and 17th minutes: Flowers made a motion to approve the minutes for September 8th and 17th, seconded by Johnson. Motion carried.

Approval of September Bills: Stringer made a motion to approve September bills, seconded by Flowers. Motion carried.

Approval of September Financials:  A motion by Stringer was made to approve September financials, seconded by Flowers. Motion carried.

Mayor’s update: Mayor Thompson discussed burning of abandoned houses, Christmas lights, the lawsuit with 705 Leon Drive, and the zoning issue with 705 Leon Drive.

Department head reports: Police Chief Harris, Public works director Mr. Wortham, and Fire Chief Brown gave updates on each department.

Police-Resignations: Chief Harris informed the Council that two of his officers had resigned: Dustin Davis and Warren Johnson.

Police-New Hire: Chief Harris said at this time he has not found a new hire.

Approval of Department head reports: Flowers made a motion to approve the reports given, seconded by Siadek.

Adoption of Ordinance #2020-012: Flowers made a motion to table Ordinance #2020-012 until the Town Attorney could further his research into this matter.

Resolution #2020-024 DOTD: Flowers made a motion to adopt Resolution #2020-024 DOTD, Ginn seconded. Motion carried.

Burning of abandoned houses/operation Clean-up: The Town Attorney explained in depth the procedure per the Town ordinance, as to which the Town will have to follow in regards to assessing and burning abandoned houses.

Council Comments: Comments were expressed.

Mayor Comments: Comments were expressed.

Adjournment: Flowers made a motion to adjourn the meeting, seconded by Ginn. Motion carried.

Robert LeRoy Wallis, Jr.                August 09, 1946 – November 03, 2020

Mr. Robert L. Wallis, Jr, age 74 of Jonesboro, LA, passed away after a lengthy illness on Tuesday, November 3, 2020. Robert graduated from Benton High School in 1964, then he went on to play college football at Northwestern State University. Robert also served in the United States Air Force and was a proud veteran and patriot. For many years, he worked for General Electric in Shreveport, LA and then at Smurfit-Stone Container, in Hodge and Arcadia, LA as the Director of Human Resources and Safety. Later in life, he worked for the Jackson Parish Correctional Center as a Detention Officer. He was also an LSU fanatic and loved playing golf.

Those left to cherish his memory are his children, Kim Smith, Tonya Yarbrough, Robbie Wallis and Susan, and Missy Shankle and Rickey; grandchildren, Tiffany Ables and John, Josh Graham and Haleigh, Lauren Yarbrough, Kallie Wallis and Craig, Zack Yarbrough, Kayla Smith, and Cole Shankle; great grandchildren, Jackson and Jayce Ables, Maddox Graham, Millie Whiteside, Lakynn and Hudson McDuff; sister, Mary Catherine Wallis and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Linda Wallis; father, Robert L. Wallis, Sr.; mother, Heflon Law Wallis; brothers Tommy Wallis and Johnny Wallis; and grandson, Blake Smith.

A memorial service will be held Friday, November 6th, at 2:00 pm in the chapel at Edmonds Funeral Home with Brother Elton Gunter officiating.

***Due to Covid-19 face masks and social distancing are to be expected***

 

Barbara Dale Griffith           February 17, 1943 – November 02, 2020

Ms. Barbara Dale Griffith, age 77 of Quitman, passed through the heavenly gates on Monday, November 2, 2020 after a period of declining health.  Ms. Barbara was a member of Quitman Baptist Church.  She was a beloved mother, mamaw, sister, aunt and friend.  She is known by most as “Mamaw” and all that knew her loved her.  She was a keeper of traditions, adored animals, was always smiling and loved people.  She loved to help people, especially the elderly. 

She enjoyed time spent delivering meals to the elderly with her church.  The people she delivered to just loved whatever she had cooked and brought them and she enjoyed watching them gobble her meals up.  She also sat with people who were sick and devoted that time to serving up fresh, hot home cooked meals and tending to their needs.  She could find just what you needed to get you to eat. 

There wasn’t anything that Ms. Barbara couldn’t do.  She was a fisherman, hunter and a green thumb as well.  She took much pleasure working in her flower beds and being crafty and creating flower arrangements.  Her family will remember her as being the heart of the hill.  She moved back into her parents family home in Quitman where she was surrounded by her family.  She adored having her son, grandchild, siblings and nieces living all around close by.  Her family was her pride and joy.

Those left to cherish her memory is her daughter, Kaylon Denise Griffith; son, Joseph Todd Griffith (Angela); grandchild, Chelsea Rebecca Griffith; brothers, Jimmy Blalock (Sharie), Charles Blalock (Sue); a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.  She was preceded in death by her parents, Hugie Simmons and Louise Virginia (Neisler) Blalock.

Funeral services were held on Thursday, November 5th with Reverend Donald Rudd officiating.  Burial followed in Beech Spring Cemetery under the direction of Southern-Edmonds Funeral Home. Serving the family as pallbearers were Chuck Blalock, Jessie Williams, Tate Womack, Seth Raspberry, Reagan Blalock, John Morgan.  Honorary pallbearer was Dusty Fair.

 

Glenda Faye Johnson           January 24, 1944 – October 29, 2020

Glenda “Faye” Johnson passed away peacefully on October 29, 2020. She was born in Jonesboro, LA on January 24, 1944 to Olline and Grant Robinson. She married the love of her life Doy Lee Johnson on May 29, 1966, who preceded her in death in 2018. Faye could often be found in the kitchen of her home baking for others. She and Doy Lee spent hours every year preparing sweets for a host of family and friends even though each year she said it would be her last. Faye had a knack for speaking the truth and a tenacious spirit to overcome any obstacle she faced in life. She loved her family especially her husband, and it gives her family comfort knowing they are once again reunited.

Faye was preceded in death by, her mother, Gladys Olline Robinson; father Grant Wilson Robinson; husband, Doy Lee Johnson; son Donald Scott Livingston; brother Stevie Dale Robinson; sister Judy Freeman; and nephew Jamie Todd Blundell.

Left to cherish her memory are, son Anthony “Huck” Livingston and wife Kalia; daughter Teresa Peel; four grandchildren, Amber Peel Buffington and husband Nathan, Chelsea Peel Thomas and husband Alan, Cody Peel, and Hannah Livingston; one great granddaughter, Eloise Grace Livingston; sister Sandra Shackelford and husband Curly; special loved ones, Leann and Bradley Sullivan and their two children, Lizzie Kate and Natalie, Katlyn Blundell and her son, Brently, and Jennifer Shackelford; and a host of other family members and friends.

Graveside services for Glenda “Faye” Johnson, 74, of Jonesboro, LA, were held on Sunday, November 1, 2020 at Edmonds-Gayla-Traina Cemetery under the direction of Southern-Edmonds Funeral Home with Dr. Cory Bruce officiating.

 

Paula Faye Williams             April 30, 1965 – October 27, 2020

Mrs. Paula Faye (Jones) Williams, age 55 of Jonesboro, was escorted into the presence of her Lord and Savior Tuesday, October 27, 2020.  Paula was a good and outgoing individual who loved being around people and sharing her good nature.  Her family was the light of her life so her children and grandchildren were great topics of conversation.  Paula loved her chosen profession, being a teacher.  She taught innumerable children during her 34 years as a teacher and she truly loved each and every one of her students.  She treated her loving pets, Bella Ann and Chano as if they were her children also, and they were always at her side and snuggled whenever they could.  Paula was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, aunt and a friend to a great number of people.

Those left to cherish her memory are her husband of 27 years, Steve Williams; children, Chase Williams & Brittany, Chance Williams & Harley, Clay Williams; grandchildren, Natalie & Nicholas Williams; parents, Paul & Billie Faye Jones; brother, Bill Jones; special niece, Carley Jones; a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.  Paula was preceded in death by her maternal grandparents, Harvey & Cecil Culpepper; paternal grandparents, Regie & Fannie Joe Jones; her sidekick Annie.

Friends may visit with the family 5:00pm – 9:00pm Friday, October 30, 2020 at McDonald Memorial Baptist Church.  Funeral services were held at the McDonald Memorial Baptist Church on Saturday with Reverends Randy Dark, Brian McCallister, Shawn McMillian and Terry Mims officiating.  Interment followed at the Jonesboro Cemetery under the direction of Southern-Edmonds funeral home of Jonesboro.

Serving the family as pallbearers were Rhett Jones, Rhen Jones, Rusty Whitmore, Dusty Hampton, Garrett Williams, Gunner Williams, Kelton Moss and Justin Dodson.  Honorary pallbearer was Ryan Whitmore.

 

Venetia Rebae Sanders                 Sept, 23, 1959 – Oct. 28, 2020

Mrs. Rebae Sanders, age 61 of Jonesboro, entered into her eternal rest on Wednesday, October 28, 2020 following a lengthy illness.  Rebae was a loving wife, mother, daughter and a friend to many others.  She was a hard worker who always tried to do her best at whatever her job was.  She enjoyed spending time with family and friends and loved to have fun.  When she was hardly able to go she took care of her father and sister in their final days with loving care.

Rebae is survived by her husband, Steve Sanders; son, Robin R. Castro; step-children, Heath Sanders, Brittany Blair; 5 grandchildren; brother, Brion Elliott & Cathy; a host of other relatives and friends.  She was preceded in death by her parents, Henry Edgar and Charlene (Cummings) Robinson; sister, Stepanie Fitzke.

Graveside services were held 12:00pm at Gayla Traina Memorial Cemetery with Reverend Bill Staples officiating.

The Jackson Parish Journal will publish tomorrow in order to provide complete parish election coverage. Please check back!

Tragedy struck this past Thursday, October 22nd when Weston High baseball coach and Ruston resident, Chase Frasier, was killed in a two vehicle accident that took place on Hwy 167 just south of Clay, LA.  A memorial service was held at Temple Baptist Church on Monday, October 26^th followed by the interment that took place at Kilpatrick’s Memorial Garden in Ruston.

According to the report submitted at 9:22 pm Louisiana State Police Troop F responded to a crash on U.S. Hwy 167, just south of LA Hwy 818 near Clay. The initial investigation revealed the 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee driven by the 28-year-old Frasier was traveling northbound on U.S. Hwy 167.

For reasons still unclear, the Jeep rear-ended a 2013 Western Star 18-wheeler that was slowing to make a turn near the Hwy 818 exit.  After impact, the Jeep traveled off the road into the ditch.  Frasier, who was properly restrained, was transported to a local hospital where he later succumbed to his injuries.

“We are all still in shock and are going to miss him very much,” said Weston High Principal Ritchie Tolar. “Chase was a great asset to our staff, student body and our athletic program. He was a good coach and teacher but an even better person. “

The second year coach was a 2011 Ruston High School graduate where he played baseball and football all four years while also being a member of the FCA and FFA. He graduated from Louisiana Tech University with a degree in Health and Physical Education in 2017 before beginning his professional career at Weston High School as baseball coach and Louisiana History teacher.

Those left to cherish his memory are his daughter, Lillie Christine Frasier; parents, Shannon and Kristie Frasier; brother, Tanner Frasier (Lexi).  His maternal grandfather, Jerry Lott;  paternal grandparents, Robert and Gloria Frasier; aunts and uncles are Greg Lott (Cindy) and their children Henry and Mary; Robert Frasier (Donna) and their children Cassie Pearce (Hunter), Brooke McElduff (Mason); Lori Kelly (Craig) and their children Maddi, Cade, Audrey and Hadley; and a host of other family and friends.

You will want to make sure you check this out as you may have an early Christmas present coming. Actually it is something that was already yours but if you are like most you didn’t even know it existed but thanks to the work done by the Louisiana Department of Treasury (LDT)you can now claim it.

The names listed below have been reported to the LDT as being persons appearing to be owners of unclaimed funds subject to the provisions of LSA-R.S.9:151-182, Uniform Unclaimed Property Act. These funds have been presumed to be abandoned and taken into the protective custody of the LDT.

There is no deadline for claiming your money, however, you must provide proof of ownership before the funds will be released. A copy of photo identification will be required and other information that positively identifies the rightful owner may be needed.  You may file a claim for this money and securely upload your documents online at www.latreasury.com.

Information about the property and its return is available to a person having a legal or beneficial interest in the property contacting the Unclaimed Property Difision at 1-888-925-4127, Monday-Friday, from 8:30am to 4:30pm or by writing to: State Treasurer John M. Schroeder Sr., Louisiana Department of Treasury Unclaimed Property Division, PO Box 91010, Baton Rouge, LA 70821-9010.

Names of Jackson Parish residents that appear to have unclaimed funds: (last name, first name, middle)

A & S Fashions, 502 Beech Springs Road, Jonesboro

Alexander Roy Arnold, 202 Applegate Road, Jonesboro

Alexander Roy Arnold, Rt. 2 Box 34-C, Jonesboro

American Cancer Society, 2684 Hwy 505, Jonesboro

American Towing, 5882 Hwy 167, Quitman

Andrews David M, Country Club Drive, Jonesboro

Atkins Vernon C, PO Box 17, Jonesboro

Atkins Roy D, 1042 Lockhart Drive, Quitman

Barnes Marteal, 438 Mitchell – Apt. 438, Jonesboro

Bayles Billy E, 715 Chatham Ave, Chatham

Bennett, Davis C (Jr.), PO Box 401, Quitman

Bennett Olivia, PO Box r, Chatham

Booker Linda, 707 Morroco St. Jonesboro

Boston Felicia, 149 Bellwood Drive – Apt 16, Quitman

Bradford Charlotte, 116 Hawk St, Jonesboro

Brown Contractors Inc., Bear Knoll Drive, Quitman

Brown Sharon, PO Box 309, Jonesboro

Brown Theodis, 7013 Main St., Hodge

Bruner Jewel ., 123 Hawk St, Jonesboro

Caldwell Sandra K, PO Box 392, Hodge

Cannon Theresa S, 178 Hickory Nut Road, Quitman

Causey Kerry L, 253 Traina Road, Jonesboro

Chambless Hyrum, PO Box 148, Chatham

Cook Don, 287 Industrial Drive, Jonesboro

Cook Joshua, 919 ½ South Polk Avenue, Jonesboro

Cooper Brandon Scott 2214 Kelley Road, Quitman

Cunningham Darrell, 906 Northeast St., Jonesboro

Davis Jeroline T, PO Box1236 S 644, Jonesboro

Debnam Terrie L, 443 Pardue Loop, Jonesboro

Dill Chardae, 9013 Main St, Hodge

Donaldson Justin D, 475 Hwy 505, Jonesboro

Dowaingnoe Anderson, 108 Clarence Street, Jonesboro

Dupont John, 200 Critter Creek Road, Chatham

Ellis Cloteal, 438 Mitchell Street, Jonesboro

Emmons Mildred B, PO Box 702, Jonesboro

Estate of Will Henderson Jr., 307 Pearrie Street, Jonesboro

Estate of Arty Harris, 104 Stevenson Drive, Quitman

Estate of Bonnie W Terral, 903 Harvey Place, Jonesboro

Estate of Hixie A Potts, 223 Odenbaugh Road, Jonesboro

Estate of Purvis Lee Hunt, 106 Cedar St., Jonesboro

Exco Resources, 3716 Hwy 155, Quitman

Freeman Laura M, 1236S 3^rd Street, Hodge

Garner Cedrick J, PO Box 1071, Hodge

Gray Chris L, 3077 Walker Road, Jonesboro

Gray Sandra, 3051 Walker Road, Jonesboro

Haddox Velma, 924 Harvey Place, Jonesboro

Hall Lola, 302 Central Street, Jonesboro

Hammons Archie, 171 Thrasher Drive, Jonesboro

Hammons Martha, 171 Thrasher Drive, Jonesboro

Harris Ernest, PO Box 1002, Hodge

Hatch Ursula, 7444 Hwy 4, Jonesboro

Hay Wayne, PO Box 483, Jonesboro

Herndon Jacob, 1209 Hudson Avenue, Jonesboro

Hines Blanchard, 352 Stevenson Drive, Quitman

Poole Imogene, PO Box 683, Jonesboro

Jefferson Scottie, 839 Beech Springs Road, Jonesboro

Jett Tiffany C, 1519 E Main St., Jonesboro

Johnson Regina, 304 Sandy Acres Drive, Quitman

Johnson Stanley F, 2178 Hwy 146, Chatham

Kendera Joseph P, 1810 Walker Road, Jonesboro

Kilgore Lessie J, 1014 S Cooper Avenue, Jonesboro

King Jeffery W. 1102 S Polk Avenue, Jonesboro

Kyle Andrew H, 2248 Transport Road, Jonesboro

Lashley Rebecca, 416 Cooper Avenue, Jonesboro

Lebrun James, 5493 Walker Road, Jonesboro

Leonard Juanita, 1527 Public Road, Hodge

Lewis Gussie, 1248 Sweet Home Road, Jonesboro

Litton Elizabeth, 118 East 10^th Street, Jonesboro

Loyd H C, Rt 2 Box 160-C, Jonesboro

Margaret Calhoun Estate, 303 Holly Drive, Jonesboro

Martin Benny, 716 3^rd Street, Jonesboro

Martin Dorothy J, 1524 Cynthia, Jonesboro

Martinez Brenda, 216 Bond St – Apt 14, Jonesboro

May Clayton, 533 4^th Street, Jonesboro

McDonald Michele, 975 Hwy 4, Jonesboro

McMillan Calvin, 1083 Pardue Loop, Jonesboro

McMoy A, 616 Hickory Lane, Jonesboro

McMoy Concrete, 616 Hickory Lane, Jonesboro

Miles Melinda, 2400 Wayne Street, Jonesboro

Miller Angela, 107 Cooper Avenue, Jonesboro

Miller Tina, 201 Rita Lane, Quitman

Milstead Joyce H, 1778 Pardue Loop, Jonesboro

O’Bryan Heather, 317 Paradis Drive, Jonesboro

Patterson Louis, Rt 2 Box 248, Jonesboro

Plunkett Lane, 310 Seymore, Jonesboro

Plunkett Jimmie D, PO Box 36, Quitman

Rascoe Lamar, 915 Harvey Place, Jonesboro

Rascoe Opal L, 407 Harvey Place, Jonesboro

Reed Michael, 199 Hogan Road, Jonesboro

Richard Ollie M, PO Box 694, Hodge

Roberts James L, PO Box 422, Hodge

Rowe, Virginia (Estate), 1420 South Polk Avenue, Jonesboro

Scott Carlos, 1079 Evergreen Road, Jonesboro

Scully Thomas A, 106 Burnett Road, Quitman

Shively Tony, 905 South 4^th Street, Hodge

Shoemaker Brandi, 6906 Quitman Hwy, Quitman

Simon Sagel A, 4373 Hwy 4, Jonesboro

Simpson Shelby N, 1623 Gracie Lane, Jonesboro

Smith & Nephew Inc, 1450 Brooks Chapel Road, Quitman

Snowden Glenda J, 820 Pardue Loop, Jonesboro

Spillers Curatrix, 201 Rita Lane, Quitman

Spillers Tina Miller, 201 Rita Lane, Quitman

Staggs Lynwood R, PO Box 42, Hodge

Stewart Mattie M, 738 Hwy 505, Jonesboro

Swearengin Robin, 119 Tumlin Street, Jonesboro

Talton Booker, 619 E Main – Apt #16, Jonesboro

Thomas Mary McCrary, Rt 1 Box 264, Jonesboro

Thompson Ladarriel, 306 Northeast Street, Jonesboro

Thomas Billie, 1147 Bear Knoll Drive, Quitman

Truelove Joshua, 590 Barmie Dark Road, Jonesboro

Watts John W, 5753 Hwy 4, Jonesboro

Wayne Charles R, 393 Walker Road, Jonesboro

Westbrook Bailee, 310 Jimmie Davis Blvd – Apt #3, Jonesboro

Willis Carolyn, 1121 South 1^st Street, Hodge

Woodard Johnel, 1900 Cynthia Street, Jonesboro

Woods Brandon T, 2403 Troy Avenue, Jonesboro

Woods Walter (Jr), 2403 Troy Avenue, Jonesboro

Wyatt Zakalah, 247 Mount Mariah Church Road, Chatham

The best way to describe Jonesboro-Hodge’s opponent for their third straight home game this Friday night is the next up is loaded with next level talent. Last week the Tigers weren’t able to overcome the challenge presented by Mansfield but that doesn’t compare with the tall task ahead when Class 4A Huntington High of Shreveport comes to town. Game time is set for 7:00 pm.

“This shapes up to be the most difficult opponent we will face on the schedule this year,” said J-H head coach Terrance Blankenship. “They have talent and speed everywhere and a bunch of guys who will end up playing on the next level.”

Currently the Raiders boast four players who have already committed to or have been offered by Division One programs. On the offensive side of the ball is senior quarterback J’rell Joseph, who has committed to Valpariso and junior wide receiver Zyvion Claville, who already has multiple offers from such programs as Virginia, Kansas and Tulane.  Defensive backs De’Kelvion Beamon and Erron Bean have also made commitments to Oklahoma State and Louisiana Tech respectively.

Other players who are getting notice as well are running back Demajah Riley and speedy slot receiver Tahj Kochinskey while the defense boasts lineman Mon’kaylon Thomas, linebacker Ed Clark and safeties ZalinThomas and Tyrique Taylor.

“There is no question they are loaded,” continued Blankenship. “We have our work cut out for us.”

Fourth year head coach Steve Dennis has improved Huntington from a two win team in his first year to a .500 mark in the regular season a year ago and a playoff berth. This season the Raiders opened with three straight wins over Benton (27-26), Carroll (23-13) and Loyola College Prep (36-31) before falling 40-22 to Bastrop this past Friday.

Not only has the number of wins increased  but the amount of players now wanting to be a part of the program as evidenced by the 30 players who came out in his first year to the size of the current roster which numbers 84 players, which is an all-time high for the program.

“Coach Dennis has done a tremendous job with their program since he got there,” continued Blankenship. “When we first scheduled them they had about as many players as we did. Now they have twice as many.”

Last year the Raiders beat J-H 40-22 in a contest played at Independence Stadium in Shreveport but the loss ended up being a positive for the Tigers. Already down 28-0 after a quarter and a half the Tigers starting quarterback injured his ankle. Enter untested junior varsity QB Tydre Malone and at the half the score was 28-20. Malone stayed behind center the rest of the year that saw J-H win three of their last four and is now an experienced signal caller that has the Tigers sitting at 2-1 on the season.

Keys to victory!

1. Must hit home runs! Quick strikes for scores are going to be a must.
2. Can’t give any freebies! It is going to be a hard enough to keep them from scoring as it is.
3. Pass the gut check! Two-way players are going to have to dig deep to offset Raiders depth.

Prediction:  Mansfield manhandled the Tigers last week and Huntington is a much better team. If the Tigers win it would be considered a huge upset. Reality says to just hope J-H can come out of the game in without any injuries for the upcoming district run.            Huntington 32    JHHS 18

In yards all over Jackson, Bienville and Claiborne Parishes and along virtually every highway and backroad that runs through the three are campaign signs asking you to elect either Darrell Avery, Walter May, Yumeaka Robinson Washington or Rick Warren as Judge.

That’s four people running for a seat. Simple enough right? A closer look at the campaign posters gives more information such as the explanation that two are running for the 2^nd Judicial District seat in Division A while the other pair are running for the seat in Division B.

Divisions? What divisions? Isn’t there just one judge for the district? Why are there two divisions for the same district? Actually there are three but only two seats are up for grabs in this election. Maybe a little explanation will help shed some light for those who are confused.

The 2^nd Judicial District is comprised of three parishes: Jackson, Bienville and Claiborne. Each hold their own court that tries cases of that parish and are listed as a separate division of the district but the entire district votes for the judge of their choice in each division and a candidate can run for a seat in the division of their choice even though they may not live in that parish.

A perfect example is the race for Judge in Division A (Claiborne Parish). Neither, Darrell Avery or Walter May resides in Claiborne Parish but both filed to run for the seat that is being vacated by retiring Judge Jenifer Clason. They are the only two candidates running in Division A.  

The Division B race is between Jackson Parish residents Yumeaka Robinson Washington and Rick Warren who are attempting to gain the seat that is now open due to the retirement of Judge Jimmie Teat.  Division C, which is the Bienville Parish court, has Glen Fallin as the elected Judge and is not up for grabs in the upcoming election.

Hopefully this will help clear up the district judge race about who is running for what position and where. The most important thing is to make your voice heard and cast a vote on November 3^rd if you have not already done so in the early election phase.

Early voting information: The early voting period ended on Tuesday, October 27^th with a record number of ballots cast before Election Day.  Across the state nearly 800,000 people have already voted which destroys the previous record of 556,000 that was listed for the 2016 election.

According to information provided by the Louisiana Secretary of State the difference was two-fold. First was the acceptance of mail in ballot votes and the second was the difference in Democrats that have cast their early vote in the state compared to 2016.

Another record broken was the number of those registered. Of the roughly three million potential voters in Louisiana a little over 2.2 million residents have registered to vote. This represents almost 72% of the population.

By: Glynn Harris

Archery season for deer is underway in Louisiana and already some impressive bucks have been making the news.

As a writer for LA Sportsman magazine, I have had the privilege of covering the stories for three successful deer hunters who got their trophy bucks with either bow and arrow or crossbows.

First to come to my attention was 10 point buck taken with a crossbow by St. Amant hunter Dustin Clouatre on October 1, opening day for archery hunting. His story is especially interesting as the buck he arrowed was taken on a hunting club in E. Baton Rouge parish and the event took place 15 minutes from Tiger Stadium in Baton Rouge.

“I was putting out feed the day before season opened, returned to my side-by-side, looked up to see this big buck already sampling the rice bran I had just put out,” said Clouatre.

On opening day, the buck showed up at the bran pile that afternoon and Clouatre shot under him. Remaining in his stand feeling dejected that he had missed the buck, Clouatre was surprised to see the buck once again approach the feed. This time his shot was true on the big 10 point buck scoring 145 4/8 inches of antler mass.

Next up was Arcadia’s Mike Chandler, retired Lincoln Parish school bus driver, who hunts on a lease south of Simsboro. Chandler is a bow hunter but a back injury had reduced his capability to pull back a conventional bow so he opted for a crossbow.     

Chandler’s trail cameras had been capturing images of a good buck for the past four years and on the afternoon of October 2, he was hoping for a chance at the buck.

“I don’t use conventional feeders because it seems to me that a mature buck can become leery of feeders so I just put feed on the ground,” said Chandler.

Late that afternoon, Chandler was sitting in his ladder stand when three bucks appeared. He recognized the buck he had been seeing on his camera as one of the three. Waiting until the buck presented a broadside shot, Chandler dropped the big eight point that measured at least 140 inches of antler bone.

Chris Felder lives in the village of Ethel in E. Feliciana Parish and the area he hunts is private land in adjoining W. Feliciana Parish.

The buck he was targeting was still in velvet but had been a no-show on his trail camera; his image finally appeared on the camera one time the week before season opened.

Late on the afternoon of October 1, Felder placed rice bran on the ground before climbing into his lock-on stand he had hung in the woods in a big pine that was located next an oak flat. Momentarily, he began hearing something walking in the woods. It would take a few steps and then stop.

“I thought it may have been one of the smaller bucks I had seen so I reached in my bag and got my phone to start videoing what I thought would be one of the smaller bucks. When the buck stepped into a small clearing with his rack showing, I put down my camera and picked up on compound bow,” Felder said.

The buck finally stepped out and Felder was able to put the pin on the buck’s vitals and released his arrow after which the buck took off through the woods.

After an extended search utilizing the help of friends, he was finally able to retrieve the impressive velvet-racked buck that measured 152 inches of antler. When dressing the buck, Felder was shocked to find the deer had been shot twice before as he retrieved a mushroomed bullet in the bucks shoulder as well as a handful of small shotgun pellets in the neck.

As evidenced by the success of this trio of hunters, this season promises to be one not only exciting but full of intrigue.

FISHING REPORT –

BUSSEY BRAKE – Bass fishing has been fair around grass and timber on soft plastics, jigs and crank baits. Crappie fishing is fair around deep water off the boat dock on shiners or jigs. A few bream are being reported. No report on catfish. For latest information, contact the Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707.

BLACK BAYOU –  Bass are fair around the grass on jigs and soft plastics. Bream and crappie are slow. Contact Honey Hole Tackle Shop 323-8707 for latest information.

OUACHITA RIVER – Bass have been best fishing the river at the junction of river lakes on a variety of lures. Crappie have been best in the river lakes on shiners or jigs. For latest information, contact the Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707.

LAKE D’ARBONNE – The lake is some 5 ½ feet low due to the scheduled drawdown. Look for crappie in the channels where they’re fair on shiners and jigs. Bass have been best in the deeper holes in the channels on soft plastics, crank baits or jigs. Bream fishing is slow but catfish continue to bite cold worms or night crawlers all around the lake. For latest reports, call Anderson’s Sport Center at 368-9669 or Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707.

LAKE CLAIBORNE – Bass fishing has been best with some with some small to medium sized fish caught along the sea walls on spinner baits. Stripers are schooling with some caught on shad imitations or trolling white bucktails when they go down. A good many catfish are being caught on trotlines baited with either blood bait or chicken livers. Crappie are fair around the deep tops on shiners or jigs. Bream are slow. For latest information, call Tim Loftin at Kel’s Cove at 927-2264.

CANEY LAKE – Bass to 3 to 4 pounds have been caught on drop shot rigs, tail spinners or Flukes around the grass. Crappie fishing has been fair around deep tops on shiners or jigs. Catfishing has been good tight-lining cold worms. Bream are slow to fair on worms. 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.

LAKE POVERTY POINT – Crappie are fair on shiners or jigs with better results coming in late afternoons. Catfishing has been good. No report on bass or bream. For latest reports, call Poverty Point Marina at 318-878-0101.

LAKE ST. JOHN – The bass are improving on topwater lures early and jigs and soft plastics later in the day. Crappie and catfish are slow.. For information, call Ken Mahoney at 318-201-3821.

LAKE YUCATAN – The water is on a slow fall with bass and catfishing both being good while crappie have been fair. For information, call Surplus City Landing at 318/467-2259.

LAKE BRUIN – Bass have been fair on topwaters or soft plastics. Other species are slow For information, contact Carlos Gray at 318/766-0075.        

Thanks to the many J-H supporters the Tigers improbable 42-41 rally over Rosepine, which was one of the most exciting games that has taken place at Caldwell-Peacock stadium in recent history,  wasn’t the only victory enjoyed by the team .

The fans of the team gave the footballers two more victories by providing the most votes in the TEAM OF THE WEEK competition held by Channel 8 KNOE-TV in Monroe and K104 radio’s Scoreboard Show BIG WIN OF THE WEEK contest.

“I want to thank our fans for their support,” said Blankenship. “I can’t tell you how much it means to the guys to know that our fans are behind us and want to see us get recognized. “

By virtue of the victory J-H was featured on the Channel 8, KNOE-TV 6:00 and 10:00 pm sports segments last Wednesday after capturing 51% of the vote against three much larger fan bases from West Monroe, West Ouachita and Ruston High schools. Team members Justin Calahan and LaJavion Nichols as well as head coach Terrance Blankenship were interviewed and the team was presented pizzas compliments of Little Ceasar’s Pizza of Monroe.

The K104 Friday Night Scoreboard Show sponsored by Down’s Law Firm also recognized the Tigers by announcing the team as BIG WIN OF THE WEEK on subsequent radio broadcasts and making posts through social media sites Facebook and Twitter.

Judge Jay McCallum does not have to run a negative campaign because he has a pro-life, pro-family, and pro-second amendment conservative record of being fair…

Political Ad Paid for by the McCallum Campaign

Amending the 2020 budget and approving the 2021 budget were the main items of business handled by the Jackson Parish Recreation District Board in their regular monthly meeting on Monday, October 19, 2020 at the Dr. Charles H. Garrett Community Center in Jonesboro.

Members present were Brent Barnett – President, Ricky Cash, Jeff Hairston, Brandon Lamkin and Chris Womack. Rodney Potts and Sullivan Stevens were absent. Also present was Steven Gatlin.

After the President called the meeting to order the invocation was given by Cash and Barnett led the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. The floor was then opened for public comments of which there was none.

Minutes and financials of the September meeting was then approved leading to the

approval to amend the 2020 Budget and adopt the 2021 budget. Under old business, the board discussed Weyerhaeuser land purchase.

Ms. Kayla McGuire, 4-H Agent for Jackson Parish then took the floor to discuss dedicating the archery trail located at the Recreation Department’s Complex on Hwy 4 East in honor of Mr. Steven Morgan. The board then authorized Ms. McGuire to do further research for the trail to be named in honor of  Morgan and present her findings at the November board meeting.

Jackson Parish Recreation Director Tommy Smith followed by giving the board update on some of the ongoing programs at the sports complex including Fall baseball/softball, flag football, soccer, archery and golf clinic. Ms. Rebecca Williams also provided the board an update on the golf course including membership, banquet rentals and roofing quotes.

The next board meeting is scheduled for Monday, November 16, 2020 at 12:00 noon at the Dr. Charles H. Garrett Community Center, Jonesboro.

As we enter the final weeks of the 2020 election year, many citizens are biting their nails and sitting on the edge of their seats in awe and suspense especially as it relates to the presidential race, uncertain about the outcome of the race.  For many citizens, the result of this election is expected to be a political upset, a thriller that will dwarf the “who shot JR” finale in the weekly sitcom Dallas.  The 2020 election has been a super charged event inundated with false and misleading information, an election that’s been led by greed, and an uncontrollable appetite to succeed, one filled with hunger and thirst to hold on to power.  It is an election that portrays a prediction of things to come.

The last four years and this election year have been like none that citizens have seen or experienced before.  America is reeling and rocking from the devastation of an unseen, out of control, deadly enemy called COVID 19 which has already killed over 225,000 citizens.  COVID 19 is now on the uptick again, resurging and regaining more strength each day as citizens take it for granted by not following the recommended health guidelines of simply wearing a mask and practicing social distancing.  While citizens may claim that they are finished with COVID 19, the virus is not finished with them.  Adding to the nation’s problems is a besiege of raging wildfires in the west that have consumed millions of acres of land and property, flattening, and destroying small towns in western states.  More problems are mounting because there is evidence of election interference by foreign nations.  Racial unrest and tension is gripping and hovering over the nation like the plagues that descended upon Egypt in Biblical times.  Racial injustice and inequality is a sin that is destroying the fabric and the very essence of the republic, a sin that it  must confess and finally get on with the business of ensuring justice and fair treatment to all citizens.

The past few months of political campaigning and jockeying among candidates have put the public on a roller coaster ride.  The campaigns have been quite colorful, with candidates pulling out all the stops in an effort to win the race.  At the local level smear tactics are being levied against opponents.  Some campaigns, at both the national and local levels, have become downright ugly and nasty.  Candidates have no shame when it comes to murdering and burying their opponents politically.  There are no limits to what politicians will say, do, or go to in order to remain in power or win an election.  Many citizens are baffled and still trying to make sense of President Trump’s rhetoric “suburban women won’t you please like me; I saved your damn neighborhoods.”  The question is what did he save them from?  Does he mean that he saved them from the poor, unemployed, hungry, and forgotten people of the nation entering their living spaces?

Poor people are hurting, hungry, and suffering because of an economic meltdown, none to their doing.  Food lines across the nation are expanding each day.  The FBI has uncovered a terrorist plot orchestrated by vigilantes to kidnap, and kill governors and take over local governments.  These hate groups are being told to stand down and stand by.  There are vivid attempts to suppress voter participation, flaming and fanning efforts to pack the US Supreme Court and federal courts with hundreds of young, politically conservative Justices whose directive is to scale back years of progress and to rule in favor of cases that will make America great for the elite, major corporations and Wallstreet  Because of the atmosphere and climate in which the nation finds itself, citizens have been heard to remark, “I don’t know my country anymore.”  Citizens are asking a Biblical question, is there no balm in Gilead to heal a sin sick nation.  Citizens are stunned at the lack of a national response to COVID 19 and the constant wrangling to demean and denounce the health experts, statements flowing from the lips and mouth of the President.  “I could care less; people are tired of hearing Fauci”.  What citizens are tired of hearing is that they are losing loved ones every single day.  These kinds of statements and misinformation have led people to falsely believe that they do not have to subscribe to the national guidelines so we choose to go it our way!  How shameful!!  There are more than 71,000 reported cases of infections being reported every day and thousands of deaths daily.  Please adhere to the safety guidelines established and recommended by the scientists–wear a mask and practice social distancing. 

Again, please go out and vote on November 3^rd.  Your vote will help to determine the future direction of the nation.

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.

Talk about what a difference seven days can make. From accumulating 515 yards and scoring 22 points in the final six minutes to take an incredible 42-41 victory the game before, J-H was held scoreless in the 36-0 debacle against Class 3A Mansfield this past Friday night.

It was a mistake filled second quarter that ruined any hope for victory as Mansfield took advantage of a pair of Tiger fumbles that help stretch a 6-0 first quarter advantage to a 30-0 halftime lead. A less than stellar defensive effort didn’t help either.

“We simply didn’t give the kind of effort needed,” said disgruntled head coach Terrance Blankenship. “I can overlook mistakes but I am not going to abide our guys not playing hard. That is unacceptable.” 

The stats proved out what Blankenship was referring to. The Tigers could muster only 121yards of total offense on 28 plays compared to the 550 yards on 56 plays that was registered by Mansfield. A deeper look shows an even worse disparity beginning with Mansfield running 56 plays to just 29 for J-H

The J-H ground game managed only 49 yards on 22 carries which comes out to a 2.4 yards per carry average. Twenty eight of those came on one run by Brantrel Thompson. Other than that the Tigers rushed for 21 yards on 20 carries. This is compared to the 350 yards gained by Mansfield that came out to an 8.8 yard average or nearly four times as good.

The passing stats were even worse. J-H Quarterback Tydre Malone, who only played one half before sitting out the final two quarters due a calf injury, finished with 5 completions on seven attempts for 66 yards. Forty one of those yards came on one completion to Datre’Vion Bowie. Conversely Mansfield QB DeKeldrick Thomas hit on 9 of 16 passes for 202 yards and two TD’s for a 22.2 yard per reception average. 

 

JHHS (2-1)           0              0              0              0 -0

MHS (1-2)            6              24           6              0- 36

Sometimes things don’t go according to plans. That was the case on October 15th when the scheduled Concert in the Park performance by Jon Sorenson was cut short due to rain and some of his equipment received damage.

Fortunately for the performer all was not lost thanks to the action taken by the Jackson Parish Tourism Board (JPTB) at their regularly scheduled monthly meeting held on October 19^th at the Charles H. Garrett Community Center in Jonesboro.

Board members Phillip Lawrence, Christie Weeks, Dawn Slezak, Joyce Amos Smith and Denise Barlow voted to allow Sorenson to not only return on October 19^th as the opening act for the regularly scheduled concert featuring the Victory Belles but also pay an additional fee of $200.00 to cover the cost of lights and sound equipment provided by Hank Staples of WHS Productions.  Additional action taken on behalf of Sorenson was the agreement to purchase a new keyboard for an amount not to exceed $900.00 to replace the one that was damaged in the rain.

In further action the recognition of the student winners of the JPTB Art Contest was also rescheduled for October 19^th and a new logo was agreed upon. The Tourism Promotion Assistance Guide was also adopted along with a Cooperative Endeavor Agreement.

The meeting began with the September meeting minutes and payment of bills being approved and ended with the 2021 budget being discussed and having action tabled until the next regularly scheduled meeting that will be held on November 16^th.