While for the past several weeks, residents of Chatham and the surrounding area have enjoyed the newest edition to the Chatham dining experience, on Friday, February 21st, El Patio Bar & Grill celebrated their official Grand Opening.

With Village of Chatham officials, Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce members, friends, family and the El Patio staff on hand, owners Rodolfo Vargas, Kevin Vargas and Antonio Cazares commemorated the occasion with a traditional ribbon cutting ceremony. 

The ownership team stated they are thrilled to express their heartfelt gratitude to the wonderful community of Chatham for their unwavering support of their restaurant.

“Thank you for making our restaurant a beloved part of this town. Your patronage and kind words have been the cornerstone of our success, and we are deeply thankful for the trust and loyalty you’ve shown us,” said Vargas. “It brings us immense joy to know that our efforts have been appreciated by so many. We are committed to continuing to provide you with delicious food, warm hospitality, and a welcoming atmosphere.”

El Patio Bar & Grill, located at 6542 Hwy 34  in Chatham, is open 7 days a week with  the hours of operation being:
Sunday – Thursday: 11:00 am – 9:30 pm
Friday – Saturday: 11:00 am – 10:00 pm

 

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Last spring, Cali Deal pitched Quitman High School to the Division V  “non-select” state championship in softball. As result, the Jackson Parish phenom and LSU signee was voted the Class B Outstanding Player of the Year by the Louisiana Sports Writers Association (LSWA).

Local fans know that Deal is without question one of the best, if not the best, softball players in north Louisiana. Now you have the opportunity to express that opinion by voting for Deal  in the 2025 Shreveport Times Fan’s Choice Softball Preseason Player of the Year ballot.

To make your selection visit shreveporttimes.com to vote for one of the 34 athletes on the ballot. Voting will conclude Feb. 28 with the winner announced March 3 at shreveporttimes.com.

The top vote recipient will be presented a sports duffel bag with a Raising Cane’s boxed lunch gift card courtesy of Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers, the Shreveport-Bossier Sports Commission Cosse and Silmon Orthodontics and The Times.

There is no limit to the number of times you can vote, so VOTE EARLY and VOTE OFTEN for Cali Deal, North Louisiana Preseason Softball Player of the Year. 

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North Louisiana is in line to received a new area code as the Louisiana Public Service Commission has approved the addition of a 457 area code, to the 318 area code currently in place.

Affected areas include Alexandria, Bossier City, Ruston, Shreveport, Monroe, along with many other smaller towns, villages, and communities. Customers that have a 318 area code will not change their existing area code, but they will need to dial the area code and the 7-digit number to complete local calls.

The addition of the new 457 area code and the requirement for 10 digit dialing is scheduled to take place on Feb. 24. In an attempt to help make the adjustment and transition easier, for the next six months customers in North Louisiana will be given a permissive dialing period.

Then on August 25, new telephone lines may be assigned 457 area codes that will co-exist with the well-known 318 area code. All customers given a 457 area code will be required to dial 10 digits to make a local call.

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Weston High School continued to prove they are one of the better “small school” powers in baseball this season by winning two of three contests played in the prestigious Trey Altick LA Prep Classic. 

Named after the former Neville High School baseball player who tragically lost his life in a jet ski accident in 2008, the top early season tourney in north Louisiana pitted dozens of teams from all over the state and all classifications in eight different venues over three days. 

For the Wolves, now 5-4 on the year, the challenge of playing three games in three days against schools from a higher classification was a continuation of the incredibly tough early season schedule gauntlet orchestrated by head coach Joey Kemp. In the nine games played so far, Weston has taken on 3 Division I schools, 3 Division II schools and one each from Division III, IV and V who have a combined 35-22 record. 

To be able to put together a winning record under such circumstances is a strong testament to the depth and quality of team the Wolves have in their attempt to return to the Division V state tournament, where they were a semi-finalist last year. 

Weston 7 Franklin Parish 3 (Thursday): The Wolves jumped out to a 3-0 first inning lead on the strength of singles buy Bryce Zehr, Drew Browning, Colton Blundell and Jase Borders and never looked back in the tourney opener. Weston pounded out 11 hits, with Zehr, Browning, Blundell and Sawyer Watkins getting two hits each and Jacob Gill, Borders, and Ty Henderson each collecting singles. 

Central Private 8 Weston 4 (Friday) Once again, Weston took a 3-0 first inning lead but undefeated Central Private (8-0), out of Baker, LA proved why they are the #2 ranked team in Division IV among “select” schools by rallying to tie the game at 3-3 after four innings and then exploding for five runs in the 5th and 6th inning. The Wolves staggered the premier team in the first when Bryce Zehr coaxed a walk and then scored on what was ruled as double by Drew Browning who hit a smash to left field and then advanced to third on the throw to the plate in an attempt to get Zehr. Cole Tolar then hit a sacrifice fly to right field on the next pitch that scored Browning. Colton Blundell followed with another double, advanced to third on a Jacob Gill groundout and then scored on an error by the catcher. The Wolves scored another run in the top of the 7th when Zehr reached on a fielders choice after Beau Oliver got hit by a pitch to open the frame, took third on Browning’s third hit of the game and scored for the second time on Tolar’s second sac fly RBI.

Weston 5 St. Charles Catholic 4 (Saturday) After seeing a 5-1 lead nearly evaporate and the tying run on base, Drew Browning struck out the SCC batter on a 3-2 count to secure the Wolves second victory of the tourney. Walks to Liam Weaver and Colton Blundell along with  singles by Bryce Zehr and Drew Browning gave the Wolves a 2-0 lead in the top of the third. The lead would grow to 5-0 on at bat later as Weaver and Blundell reached on errors and Zehr, Cole Tolar, and Jacob Gill hit singles. Zehr and Browning led the offense with two hits each while Tolar collected the other Weston rap of the contest. 

 

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The Jackson Parish Watershed District Board held their regular monthly session on February 20th at the Jackson Parish Police Jury Administration Building with the main topic of discussion related to the issuing of duck hunting permits on Caney Lake.

Since the beginning of Caney Lake through the 2024-2025 hunting season, the Jackson Parish Watershed has issued duck blind permits for waterfowl hunters and charged a fee for site specific spots on the lake. The fees collected were used for upkeep of the buoys, parking lots, lighting, piers, restrooms and other maintenance items.

Gary Joynor, President of the Jackson Parish Watershed Board, recently learned that an opinion rendered by the Attorney General of Louisiana stated that “The boards
power to regulate duck hunting, specifically the authority to issue duck blind
permits and charge a fee, and the authority to construct and to control
construction of duck blinds was repealed by the subsequent passage of Act 830
of the 1993 regular session of the Louisiana Legislature. By passage of this act,
the state reserved unto itself the right to regulate all aspects of hunting, fishing,
and boating. Thus the board does not have the authority to issue duck blind
permits or charge a fee for such permits.”

This opinion was read to all of the attendees at the meeting that consisted of
LDWF agents, LDWF biologist, homeowners, and waterfowl hunters present leading to much discussion. In the end, no action was taken regarding issuing duck blind permits and charging a fee moving forward.

In additional business,  board members also discussed the problem of duck blind vandalism on Caney over the last three years that was reported to Jackson Parish Sheriff’s office.

The Jackson Parish Watershed Board’s next meeting is scheduled for 6:00 pm on March 20th, 2025. 

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On paper it looked like 12th seeded West St. Mary’s High School would have no problem with the #22 seed Jonesboro-Hodge Lady Tigers in the LHSAA Division IV first round girls basketball playoff game. 

They don’t play basketball games on paper!

WSM did win the contest to advance to the second round but JHHS gave the favored home-standing team all they could handle before falling late by a 50-45 margin. With the victory West St. Mary’s improved to 15-11 on the season and moved on to play #5 seed Midland while JHHS sees their season end come to a close with a 12-20 mark. 

Tyya Davis led JHHS in scoring with 11 points, followed by 9 from Sanaa Tatum. Morgan McGee and Nesha Johnson ended with 8 points each while Jalenya Jackson finished with five and LaKayla McGuired scored four. 

Not many gave JHHS much of a chance after the Lady Tigers entered the playoffs having lost 7 of their final 8 games and West St. Mary’s was riding a ten game winning streak. They didn’t know the momentum that JHHS head coach Shan Jackson has been building in her second year at the helm. 

Two years ago, JHHS was a three win team. Last year the Lady Tigers tasted victory just six times leading to this season where J-H doubled their win total from the previous year once again and won three more games than in the last two years combined. 

” I’m extremely proud of these young ladies,” said Jackson. “They have done what  a lot of people thought couldn’t be done, and our goal was to get one percent better everyday and we did just that.”

While the present shows that the 2024-25 season is over, and Jackson knows that there is still a lot of work to do, she also is eager and optimistic about the fortunes of her team in the future, 

“This is only the beginning and I’m determined to bring the culture and pride back to this basketball program,” said Jackson. “I always refer back to what my daughter told me after my first year when she said ‘Mom, Rome wasn’t built overnight,’ but we will continue to build brick by brick.” 

Tyya Davis led JHHS in scoring with 11 points, followed by 9 from Sanaa Tatum. Morgan McGee and Nesha Johnson ended with 8 points each while Jalenya Jackson finished with five and LaKayla McGuired scored four. 

 

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On Saturday, February 15th, friends, colleagues and Northwestern State University officials gathered at the NSU Office of Development in Natchitoches, LA to pay tribute to Jonesboro native, Doug Ireland, whom a $100,000.00 scholarship endowment was named for. 

“This scholarship is so appropriate in that Doug Ireland dedicated so much time and effort to the NSU Sports Information Office. Doug went from the NSU student to the real Mr. NSU, but he’s known by many names: Mr. Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame, Mr. Natchitoches, Uncle Dougie, “Penguin” to his friends in Jonesboro, and the best friend of all who always answers their call.”

So said Natchitoches Parish Clerk of Court David Stamey during the event to announce the Doug Ireland Endowed Scholarship, created by Robert “Skeeter” Salim with a $100,000 gift to the Northwestern State University Foundation. The scholarship honors NSU’s long-time Sports Information Director who continues to serve the university as an advisor to NSU President James Genovese and is a devoted ambassador of his alma mater.

“When you have people like Doug Ireland, you have an abundance of institutional knowledge,” Genovese said. “We are so glad to have him. He is a great member of our team.”

The scholarship will benefit undergraduate and graduate students pursuing careers in communications, media and/or journalism. The Feb. 15 announcement drew friends, colleagues and NSU supporters together to acknowledge Ireland’s long commitment to NSU with contributing comments from Genovese, Salim, Louie Bernard, Buddy Wood, former NSU Women’s Basketball Coach James Smith and NSU’s Associate Athletic Director of External Operations Jason Pugh.

“For those of us who have known Doug all this this time, soon to be 47 years for me, we started praying for him then and we haven’t stopped,” Wood remarked in a preamble to his invocation. “But this is a very special occasion and we’re so honored to be a part of it and to share in this outstanding event.”
“We all gather to honor a man who was born in Pennsylvania but became a Louisiana legend and, more to the point, a national legend, a figure whose attachment to Northwestern began as a student and stretched throughout three decades in his career as an athletic administrator. He is one of his alma mater’s most ardent supporters,” Pugh said.

Ireland, who graduated from Jonesboro-Hodge High School in 1978, retired from NSU in 2019 after 30 years of service. During his career, he earned numerous awards from the Louisiana Sports Writers Association and was enshrined in the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame as a winner of the LSWA’s Distinguished Service Award in Sports Journalism.

Since 1990, he has been chairman of the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame and spearheaded efforts leading to construction and the 2013 opening of the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame and Northwest Louisiana History Museum in Natchitoches. Since 2021, Ireland has been the sports director for Online Journals LLC, which encompasses 14 parish journals in northwest and central Louisiana including the Jackson Parish Journal.

“It’s good talk about generosity, commitment and compassion for NSU and Natchitoches,” Ireland said. “Some of us can’t give $1,000. Some of us can’t give $100, but we can all give something, if it’s just our time and promoting the university. I’m proud to have an example like “Skeeter” doing this for our university.”

Friends can contribute to the scholarship by visiting https://northwesternstatealumni.com/ireland-scholarship/

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Whether a team has done it once or often, the heart of a champion dies hard!

After winning the LHSAA Division V state championship in baseball among “non-select” schools last spring, the first in the history of Quitman High School, the Wolverines proved that adage to be true on Thursday by beating Class 5A Parkway High School by a 4-3 margin.

It has been a rough start to the 2025 season for Quitman and first year head coach, Chris Womack, who moved up from being a top QHS assistant last year after Joe Lockhart departed after a long tenure. 

Gone were six starters from the title team, including most of the pitching staff, forcing Womack and staff to begin the season with many untested players getting their first varsity experience. Growing pains were expected.

In Quitman’s first four games, the Wolverines managed only 4 runs, including being shut out in their first two contests, leading to an 0-4 start to the year. Still Womack and staff remained confident as the young core of players showed steady improvement from game to game. 

This past week it started to all come together as the young Wolverines, who remembered the joys of winning state last year started to rekindle the feeling of success.

First it was a thrilling 2-1,victory on Tuesday over Division III D’Arbonne Woods Charter where Quitman showed a true champion’s heart by rallying late to tie and then winning the contest in extra innings. 

Strengthened by the success, the Wolverines ventured to Bossier City to take on Class 5A Parkway High School, who at 2-0 on the year was ranked #10 in the state in Louisiana Prep Baseball’s Power Poll coming in.

Playing under frigid conditions, the Wolverines jumped out to a 1-0 lead that was stretched to 3-0 by the top of the sixth inning. Proving their mettle, Parkway scored a run in the bottom of the sixth and after Quitman had plated another run in the top of the final frame to go up 4-1, the home standing team came roaring back.  Three straight singles and a hit batsman narrowed the margin to 4-3 with no outs and the tying run on second base. Quitman captain, Maddox Duck, one of the few returning players with experience in tight situations which QHS thrived in last spring, then knuckled down on the mound and retired the next three batters in only six pitches to preserve the win.

Perhaps even more important than the impressive victory which improved the Wolverines to 2-4 on the year was the clutch play of the four freshmen starters in the lineup, each making major contributions late in the game.

It was in the top of the 6th inning with Quitman holding the slim 1-0 lead after returning elder statesmen, Hudson Pullig and Hayden Davis had chilled the Parkway bats for five innings that the “youngsters” started showing their ability. 

With Pullig on first following his second hit of the game, Tucker Newton, who coming in had one hit in 13 at bats, stroked a single to right field, advancing Pullig to third base. Sophomore, Cail King, got hit by a pitch, bringing up Ayden Greer, who had only one official at bat prior to the game. Unfazed by the pressure, Greer stroked a two out single to left field that scored Pullig and Newton. 

Asher Rhodes and Zach Smudricks also came up big for Quitman, with Rhodes superbly handling the four pitchers used by Quitman in the game from his catchers position and Smudricks quelling a strong Parkway rally attempt in the bottom of the sixth inning by stranding two runners after the Panthers had scored their first run of the game assisted by a highlight reel diving catch in deep right field by Pullig. 

TEAM	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	R	H	E
Quitman (2-4)	0	0	1	0	0	2	1	4	5	1
Parkway (2-1)	0	0	0	0	0	1	2	3	5	4

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The Jackson Parish Library (JPL) and Centric Federal Credit Union (CFCU) is pleased to present a “Debt-Free & Wealthy Live Event”. This unique opportunity to learn how to better manage your money and live a debt-free life will take place at 2:00 pm on Monday , February 24th at the Main Branch of the Jackson Parish Library, located at 614 South Polk Avenue in Jonesboro.

Special guest speaker will be Kelly Brantley, Author of the book Debt-Free & Wealthy, One Dollar at a Time and the only Dave Ramsey Certified Counselor in north Louisiana.

You don’t want to miss this as you WILL benefit from this event!

There is no cost to attend but space is limited so call the Library at (318) 259 – 5697 or come to the Jonesboro Branch and register. 

JPL Calendar of Events (Monday – Wednesday)

Jonesboro Branch
Monday: Debt Free & Live Wealthy Event (2:00 pm)
Wednesday: Storytime (10:00 am)

Chatham Branch
Monday: Adult Connect Fitness (9:00 am)
Tuesday: Play, Grow, Read – Stop Light Craft (10:00 am – 4:30 pm)
Wednesday: Adult Connect Fitness (9:00 am)
Wednesday: Adult Connect Craft (2:00 pm)

 

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Shawn Murphy State Farm Agency in Jonesboro is pleased to announce that Kaitlyn Ethridge has been selected as the new, full-time, Customer Service Representative. While new to the position that became open when long time team member Cheri jo Harveston moved to Texas, Ethridge is not new to “The Farm” having been working for Shawn Murphy State Farm since April of 2024 as a part time worker while studying to become licensed in property and casualty as well as life and health. 

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(Cassie Dickenson) –  Jonesboro Pack 523 has been busy during the month of February! This month officially began the much anticipated Pinewood Derby season, an iconic hallmark for any scout experience. Each year, scouts receive a block of wood and are challenged to create a 5-ounce car that showcases both ingenuity and speed.

Weeks of strategically placing weights and crafting the wood surfaces culminated on race day. On February 3rd, Pack 523 held a preliminary race, open to our own scouts and family members, at Quitman High School. Plaques were awarded to the top 3 racers and a Best in Show was given to the most creative car design.

Many scouts walked away pleased with their work, but others took advantage of a two-week break where they could re-evaluate and make improvements to their cars. On February 17, the pack met again at Forest Haven for a second race to showcase their hard work for the residents.

Many residents chose a favorite car and cheered it on during the race, after which they also voted for a favorite design. Once again, winners were recognized and Best in Show was awarded to the fan favorites. The next race will have our scouts competing against other packs in our district on March 15th.

On February 8th, our pack members also participated in Cub Klondike Day, an exciting winter-themed event filled with races, team challenges, and relays. Jonesboro’s own pack fared well in the competition, bringing home the win in 4 events.

Days like this embody the values which make scouting unique – a bond of friendship, teamwork, and perseverance, designed to reach a common goal where everyone can support each other and celebrate both individual and group strengths. Our scouts may think they are simply playing, building derby cars, or competing in relays, but in reality, they are learning to be active members of a community whose goal is to better the whole, as well as the individual. This is what it’s all about.

If you would like to be a part of the adventures in Jonesboro’s scouting program, reach out to Cubmaster Brian Hurt at (318) 734-3571, or visit http://www.beascout.org.

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The Jackson Parish Recreation Department reminds all those interested in having their boys and/or girls participate in the baseball and softball summer leagues, the last day to sign up is March 1st. 

To register go to jprec.org

Also, if you desire to coach a team, please sign up on the website. 

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This winter has been a great season for the dogs digging holes in the yard. They are unencumbered by grass or other plants. They dig with abandon. They discovered a corner of the yard where fences meet. The corner is a natural low place in the yard, thus aiding their digging.

Their corner digging has become a game. They dig and I fill. The hole is amazing. They have actually dug under the fencepost in the corner. The hole takes me a while to fill in each day. I know, from looking at them, that I have two dogs working on the digging project.

The other day I was filling the hole, and I noticed that it seemed to go a good distance out into the yard behind the house. It was rather strange, and I tried to imagine the position the dog must have been in to dig out on the other side of the fence.

Since I was curious, I walked around the fence to the other side and found out that the dogs were digging on the other side of the fence as well. They were working on a “two-sided hole.” Most of the dogs I have owned dug under the fence to get out of the yard. It appears as though I have a couple of dogs who dig for the joy of digging.

They could have escaped and explored another world for most of the day, but they did not. My dogs are focused on digging the best hole ever dug in that backyard!The dogs are on a perfect hole digging mission.

What about your life?

Do you have that kind of focus and that kind of tenacity as you strive to live out your purpose?

That raises another question, doesn’t it, what is your purpose in life?

To refer to last week’s article, I pose an alternative query, Which path are you on?

There is a place called the church and on Sunday mornings we help you answer that very question. We can also help you escape from that hole you have dug for yourself!

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The administration of Quitman High School is pleased to recognize outstanding team members n the Elementary, Secondary and Support areas as Staff of the Week for February 23 – March 8

Staff of the Week (February 23 – March 1)

Elementary – Holly Dodson
Secondary – Genesis Williams
Support Staff – Julie West

Staff of the Week (March 2 – March 8)

Elementary – Holly Dodson
Secondary – Genesis Williams
Support Staff – Julie West

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I was drawn to a verse in the Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Sound of Music that ends
“These are a few of my favorite things”. No, I’m not putting in a plug for the vocals of Julie Andrews. The country boy in me prefers Loretta Lynn’s “Coal Miner’s Daughter”.
This line got me to thinking about some of my favorite things and I thought on this cold winter day I might share a few of those things that are special to me.

Any time I’m on a road trip, my first stop for refreshments is always, never deviating, a
bottle, not a can but a bottle of real Coke, and a pack of salted peanuts. Taking a few sips from the bottle so it won’t run over, I pour in the peanuts. Nothing better; the sweetness and acidy bite of the Coke blended with the saltiness and crunch of peanuts makes any road trip – unless it’s to the see the dentist for a root canal – extra special.

I love coffee and I have discovered a blend that suits my fancy just right. I stop by the
Black Rifle shop for a pound of “Beyond Black” coffee. Just enough cream to lighten the color just a bit and my day gets off to a fine start. When the weather warms, I like to take my cup to the back porch where I sit and sip and watch the birds while thanking the Good Lord for His blessings.

Back before age and infirmity kept me out of the woods, I loved to be sitting, covered in camouflage, with my back against a tree and playing mind games with a savvy old wild turkey gobbler.

Hearing a thundering gobble as he responds to my calls mimicking a sweetheart of a hen turkey and then finally seeing that white head floating atop a puffed-out body, tail fan spread out, as the old boy comes in, spitting and drumming to investigate what he believes is a little hen anxious for his affection, was indeed, one of my favorite things ever.

When the first Saturday in October came around every year, wild horses couldn’t have
kept me out of the woods on opening day of squirrel season. Sitting at daylight on a moss-covered fallen log resting next to a grove of hickories, oaks or beech trees, was the ticket. If these trees were bearing hickory nuts, acorns or beech mast, there was no doubt that as the sky began lightning up, squirrels would be leaving dens for breakfast.

If I was fortunate enough to down a young “frier” squirrel, my next stop was the camp
where the squirrels were cleaned and a young one was cut into quarters, seasoned with salt and pepper and dusted in flour. Once the skillet of oil was hot enough, I loved to listen to the sizzle as the quarters turned brown and crispy. A plate of rice, a couple of hot biscuits and gravy made from the drippings made a breakfast fit for a king. I declare, the hind leg of a tender young fried squirrel would put Col. Sanders to shame. A favorite thing? You betcha.

When I was growing up, there was a spot known locally as the Sand Flats where every
fall and winter morning, a flight of wood ducks would leave roosts and wing their way up the creek to feed. On mornings before school, my dad would take my brother and me to the Sand Flat for the chance at downing a “squealer”, as wood ducks were called. The flight only lasted half an hour but if my shot was successful, I had something to brag about to the kids at school.

When my mama slow baked a wood duck in her cast iron pot, it made the darkest and
richest gravy ever. Spooning it over one of her hot biscuits alongside a slice or two of duck breast was a feast, a favorite thing, I will never forget.

Okay, enough nostalgia. I just heard Loretta Lynn crank up.

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Week 7 of play for the Jackson Parish Youth Basketball League was completed on Saturday, February 22nd, leading only one more week of competition left to play. A total of 30 teams consisting of players from the ages of 5-14 are playing in 8 divisions. 

Venues are at the Jonesboro-Hodge Middle School for age groups 5-6 and 7-8 boys and girls, Jonesboro-Hodge High School girls gym for age groups 9-10 boys and girls and at the JHHS boys gym for age groups 11-12 boys, 11-13 girls and 13-14 boys.

To have the Jackson Parish Journal sent to your email address free of charge simply click join and enter your name and email address.  

Game Results of February 15, 2025

Age 5-6 Boys and Girls

Warriors 14 Pelicans 8
Warriors Scoring: Thiago 6, Ashton 2, Colton 1, Landry 1, Parker 1, Tanner 1, Stella 1, Asher 1
Pelicans Scoring: Doliyah 2, Eva 1, Kristopher 1, L’master 1, Brennan 1, Jace 1, Noah 1

Bulls 20 Bucks 9
Bulls Scoring: Gentry 9, Tegan 5, Ryker 2, Rilynn 1, Dallas 1, Kacen 1, Harper 1, Hazel 1, Peyton 1
Bucks Scoring: Dredyn 3, Grayson 1, Parker 1, Synovia 1, Ella Jo 1, Memphis 1, Dawson 1

Age 7-8 Girls

Liberty 20 Aces 13
Liberty Scoring: Brenleigh 8, Madi 6, Matilyn 5, Laurel 1
Aces Scoring: Caylee 7, Mercedes 4, Karsyn 1, Lennyn 1

Aces 18 Sparks 12
Aces Scoring: Caylee 8, Mercedes 8, Emma 2
Sparks Scoring: Karlie 8, Kaylee 3, Kenzie 1

Age 7-8 Boys

Celtics 23 Thunder 9
Celtics Scoring: Levi 17, Ashton 4, Stetson 2
Thunder Scoring: Kaden 4, Stone 2, Oliver 1, Ryland 1, Lamar 1

Magic 24 Kings 23
Magic Scoring: Jeremiah 13, Duke 3, Brennon 2, Uriah 2, Sam 2, Tate 1, Oliver 1
Kings Scoring: Bryce 9, Ayden 4, Kaden 3, Pistol 2, Reese 2, Xavier 2, Cole 1

Hawks 12 Celtics 7
Hawks Scoring: Russ 5, Jackson 3, Kase 2, Ryker 2
Celtics Scoring: Ashton 4, Beaux 2, Stetson 1

Shooting Stars: (scored 10 points or more): Levi 17, Jeremiah 13

Age 9-10 Girls

Mystics 11 Fever 4
Mystics Scoring: Marlee 6, Natalie 2, Miriam 1, Tyler 1, Hillary 1
Fever Scoring: Isabel 3 Ryleigh 1

Age 9-10 Boys

Grizzlies 14 Jazz 11
Grizzlies Scoring: Jase 6, Bradley 4, Braxton 2, Braeden 2
Jazz Scoring: James 8, Jacob 2, Gabe 1

Age 11-12 Boys

Spurs 27 Bucks 15
Spurs Scoring: Jase 12, Jaden 8, Burch 5, Benson 2
Bucks Scoring: Ryder 7, Shepard 6, Jackson 2

Bulls 31 Bucks 14
Bulls Scoring: Kaylon 14, Caleb 9, Eli 6, Kaine 2
Bucks Scoring: Jackson 7, Ryder 5, Shepard 2

Shooting Stars: (scored 10 points or more): Kaylon 14, Jase 12

Age 11-13 Girls

Stars 22 Dream 19
Stars Scoring: Kate 15, Kelsey 3, Mallory 2, #10 – 2
Dream Scoring: Kynleigh 6, Brooklyn 6, Bree 4, London 3, Shelby 1

Stars 24 Wings 21 
Stars Scoring: Kate 10, Teegan 10, Hannah 3, Mallory 1
Wings Scoring: Audrina 6, Bella 6, Demie 4, Addison 2, Saniyah 2, Skyler 1

Shooting Stars: (scored 10 points or more): Kate 10, Teegan 10

Age 13-14 Boys

Warriors 30 Lakers 29
Warriors Scoring: E.J. Jackson 11, Colton Otwell 9, Lucas Leach 6, Luke Rowe 4
Lakers Scoring: Leyton 16, Eli 5, Kobie 5, Ryder 2, Jacolby 1

Heat 51 Blazers 31
Heat Scoring: Jasen 12, Quantavius 9, Jameon 9, Raylon 9, Malachi 7, Kaleb 4, Levi 1
Blazers Scoring: Aiden 12, Brody 8, Eli 6, Jayden 5

Shooting Stars: (scored 10 points or more): Leyton 16, Jasen 12, Aiden 12, E.J. 11

 

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For the Long Haul

I‘ve had no Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). My husband has, so I picked up some of a trucker’s lingo. Some get ‘dedicated’ routes going to and from the same destination. Others drive ‘local’ such as UPS or FedEx. The majority of big-rig drivers go ‘cross country; they’re in it for the long haul.

The Lord is looking for dedicated followers to serve in their local churches; to be willing to serve cross country or around the world. First and foremost they must make a commitment to follow Him for the long haul. Many of us start out with enthusiasm and dedication but quickly lose steam.

Anything from a committee assignment to building a solid marriage requires persistence and hard work. Encouraging leaders will be at our side reminding us to rekindle the flame of faithful commitment. Plans for rebuilding the house of God in Jerusalem were under way…

“Thus says Cyrus king of Persia: The Lord, the God of heaven, has given me all the kingdoms of the earth, and he has charged me to build him a house at Jerusalem, which is in Judah. Whoever is among you of all his people, may his God be with him, and let him go up to Jerusalem, which is in Judah, and rebuild the house of the Lord, the God of Israel—he is the God who is in Jerusalem (Ezra 1:2-3 ESV).”

For the long haul…

“They finished their building by decree of the God of Israel and by decree of Cyrus and Darius and Artaxerxes king of Persia; and this house was finished on the third day of the month of Adar, in the sixth year of the reign of Darius the king (Ezra 6:14b-15 ESV).”

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To have your Business Services, Job Opportunities, Items for sale, Wanted to Buy and Public / Legal Notices published – send an email to: jpjjacksonla@gmail.com  or call 318-480-1206. Possible costs are dependent on content.

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PUBLIC NOTICE

Jackson Parish Police Jury Meeting Minutes
Monday, February 10, 2025

The Jackson Parish Police Jury met in regular session on Monday, February 10, 2024, at 5:30 PM in the Nathaniel Zeno, Jr. meeting room, 160 Industrial Drive, Jonesboro, Louisiana. Members Present: Mr. Todd Culpepper, Mrs. Sheketia Combs, Ms. Regina Rowe, Mr. Keith Burris, Mrs. Amy Magee, and Mrs. Tarneshala Cowans. Absent: Mr.
Lewis Chatham. Also present: Mr. Brad Roller, Operations Manager; Mr. Wayne Anderson, Road Superintendent, and Mr. Edquardo, Solid Waste Supervisor, and Mr. Paul Riley, Parish Engineer.
The President, Mr. Culpepper, called the meeting to order. Mrs. Combs gave the invocation and Mrs. Magee led the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. (From the Veteran’s Committee meeting)
The President opened the floor for public comments. Public comments were made by Mr. John Shoemake.
Motion- Mrs. Magee, seconded by Mrs. Cowans to amend the agenda adding item #19a. Agenda item #19a-Consider and approve November 8, 2025 as the date for the Veteran’s Brunch. Motion carried.
The President moved to the approval of minutes.
Motion- Mr. Burris, seconded by Mrs. Magee to adopt the minutes of the January 13, 2025, Police Jury Meeting, January 15, 2025, Special Called Meeting, monthly purchase orders, and the payment of all bills. Motion carried.
The President called for approval of committee reports.
Motion- Mrs. Magee, seconded by Mr. Burris to adopt the minutes of the January 23, 2025, Road Committee Meeting. Motion carried.
Motion- Mrs. Magee, seconded by Mr. Burris to approve the 2025 Maintenance list. Motion carried.
Motion- Ms. Rowe, seconded by Mr. Burris to approve the 2025 Road program and 3-year plan. Motion carried.
Motion- Mr. Burris, seconded by Mrs. Magee to approve paying $25,180 to Edko for roadside spraying for asphalt roads only. Motion carried. Nay- Ms. Rowe
Motion- Mrs. Magee, seconded by Mrs. Cowans to adopt the minutes of the January 29, 2025, Finance Committee meeting. Motion carried.
Motion- Mr. Burris, seconded by Magee to approve charging municipalities a flat fee of $100 per hour with minimum of 4 hours for road work. Motion carried.
The President called for monthly management reports.
Mr. Brad Roller, Operations Manager, gave the January 2025 Operations Manager Reports.
Mr. Wayne Anderson, Road Superintendent, presented the January 2025 Road Report noting that $2,344.96 had been spent on emergency callouts/off-schedule work.
Motion- Mrs. Magee, seconded by Ms. Rowe to accept the January 2025 emergency/off-schedule reports.
Motion carried.
Mr. Edquardo Howard, Solid Waste Supervisor, presented the January 2025 Solid Waste Report.
The President moved to Other Business.
Mr. Paul Riley presented the Engineering Report.
There was no action taken on agenda item #12
Motion- Ms. Rowe, seconded by Mr. Burris to authorize the Secretary-Treasurer to advertise for the Road Department Operator II vacancy. Motion carried.
Motion- Ms. Rowe, seconded by Mr. Burris to authorize the Secretary-Treasurer to advertise for the Road Department General Laborer vacancy. Motion carried.
Motion- Ms. Rowe, seconded by Mrs. Magee to authorize the Secretary-Treasurer to complete and submit the Louisiana Compliance Questionnaire and engagement letter to the Auditor of Record for the Audit ending
December 2024. Motion carried.
Motion- Mrs. Magee, seconded by Mr. Burris to accept the bid for Solid Waste dumpsters. Motion carried.
Motion- Mr. Burris, seconded by Mrs. Rowe to accept the bid for the Coroner’s van. Motion carried.
Motion- Mrs. Cowans, seconded by Mrs. Magee to re-appoint Mr. Robert Hunter to the Recreation Board. Motion carried.
Motion- Mrs. Magee, seconded by Mrs. Cowans to approve November 8, 2025 as the date for the Veteran’s Brunch. Motion carried.
Announcements- None
All jury members thanked the public and workers for attending.
Motion- Ms. Rowe, seconded Mr. Burris to adjourn. Motion carried.

Edward Lamar Carney
November 25, 1954 – February 20, 2025

Edward Lamar Carney, age 70 of Jonesboro, left his Earthly home to ascend to his Heavenly home on Thursday morning, February 20, 2025. Edward was a master griller. He was always happy to help someone in need of a helping hand, he also never said no to a free beer when offered either. Edward was a big fan of LSU football and of profession football.

He also enjoyed being drove around and seeing the scenery and sights along the way. He was a proud “supervisor” to his children and grandchildren whenever they had a task such as auto repair. Most of all, Edward loved his family and friends, especially his grandchildren and great grandchildren. Getting to hang out and spend time with his family and friends was precious to him. He was a loving husband, father and grandfather that will be missed.

Those left to cherish his memory is his loving wife of 30 years, Loretta (Hodnett) Carney; children, Katie Carney, Preston Carney, Bobby M. “BJ” Horton, Jr. and Sharri, Michael Shawn Horton, Tiffany (Horton) Owen and Lee Plunkett, Tony Diaz, Kelsey Palmer (Champlin); a host of grandchildren and great grandchildren; brother, Dennis Carney and Tina; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Mary (Johnson) Carney; siblings, George Carney, Teresa (Carney) Miller.

The family will receive visitors on Monday, February 24, 2025 in the chapel of Southern-Edmonds Funeral Home from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM. A graveside service will be held on Tuesday, February 25, 2025 at 2:00 PM at Hughes Chapel Cemetery near Bastrop, Louisiana with Bro. Michael Magee officiating. Burial will follow in the cemetery under the direction of Southern-Edmonds Funeral Home.

Serving the family as pallbearers will be BJ Horton, Preston Carney, Little Dennis Carney.

Lawrence C. Tatum
December 7, 1928 – February 9, 2025

Mr. Lawrence C. Tatum, age 96, gained his heavenly wings on February 9, 2025. After visitation by family and friends on Friday, February 21nd, the Celebration of Life service was held on Saturday, February 22nd at Galilee Missionary Baptist Church in Hodge. Burial followed in the New Galilee Cemetery in Jonesboro under the direction of Paradise Funeral Home. 

Tommy Edward Rieson
April 4, 1950 – February 16, 2025

Tommy Edward Rieson, age 74 of Dodson, LA passed away on February 16, 2025, after a short illness. Tommy was born April 4, 1950 in Dodson, LA to the late, Helen and James “Cubby” Rieson. He grew up in Dodson and loved his family and friends.

Tommy was preceded in death by his wife, Carol Rieson, daughter, Josie Rieson, his parents James “Cubby” and Helen Rieson, two brothers, Adrian and James Rieson, and a brother-in-law, Arvin Whittaker.

Those left to cherish Tommy’s memory include; one son, Cagney Rieson and wife Jessie, three grandchildren, Ellie Kate, Adrianne, and Blake Rieson, two sisters, Judy Whittaker and Grace Walsworth and husband Mike. He is also survived by a host of nieces, nephews and other family.

A memorial service was held on Saturday, February 22nd at the Dodson Baptist Church in Dodson, LA.

Mary Ann Hollingsworth Bradley
December 24, 1956 – February 8, 2025

Ms. Mary Ann Hollingsworth Bradley, age 68, went to be with the Lord on February 8, 2025. Following visitation with family and friends earlier in the day, Ms. Bradley’s Celebration of Life service was held on Saturday, February 22nd at Pine Grove Baptist Church in Jonesboro. Interment followed at the Pine Grove Cemetery under the direction of Paradise Funeral Home.

James “JR” Roy Goins
December 10, 1984  – February 19, 2025

James “JR” Roy Goins, age 40 of West Monroe, was called home on the morning of Wednesday, February 19, 2025. JR is a graduate of Chatham Jasper Henderson High School. He found his niche in working on cars and he became an auto mechanic. He was also an outdoorsman that loved to hunt and fish. JR was born into a large, loving family and he will be deeply missed.

Those left to cherish his memory is his mother, Carrol (Potts) Goins; brother, Phillip Andrew Goins; and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Harles M. Goins; sister, Andrea Michelle McMillian; maternal grandmother, Helen Beth Potts; 2 aunts; 1 uncle; and 3 cousins.

The family plans to hold a private memorial service at a later date.

In lieu of flowers his family asks that donations be made to help with funeral expenses at Southern-Edmonds Funeral Home..

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The 3rd Annual Carnival on Caney 2025 at Jimmie Davis State Park, located at 1209 State Park Road off of Hwy 4 between Jonesboro and Chatham will be held on February 22nd!

Join us at campsite #56 for pre-parade festivities. Caney Creek Cuisinières, our local chapter of the Louisiana Dutch Oven Society will have a cooking demonstration starting at 9 AM, with lunch being served around noon.

The North Louisiana Camping Club will also be frying fresh Café du Monde beignets and provide a coffee and cocoa bar from 9:30 AM till noon.

The parade starts at 2:00 PM. If you would like to participate in the parade, please call Trish McGraw at 318-880-2201.

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The 2025 LHSAA girls basketball postseason tournament, otherwise known as “Marsh Madness”, begins on Thursday, February 20th, with Bi-District play. For the first time since 2022, all three Jackson Parish schools, (Jonesboro-Hodge, Quitman, Weston) have qualified for the playoffs. 

This year the LHSAA will see 8 divisions, four each made of “non-select” and “select” schools, along with Class B and Class C teams compete in separate brackets with the state semi-finals and finals of each being played at University Center on the campus of Southeastern Louisiana University in Hammond, on March 3-8.

Marsh Madness 2025

Jonesboro-Hodge High School – Seeded #21 in the 28 team, Division IV “non-select” bracket, the Lady Tigers will open their first postseason experience since 2022 with a road game against #12 West St. Mary High School out of Baldwin, LA. Located on LA Hwy 90, Baldwin is 38.9 miles south of Lafayette, between the towns of Jeanerette and Franklin, presenting JHHS with the longest road trip the three Jackson Parish schools have to travel. In head coach Shan Jackson’s second year at the helm, the Lady Tigers qualified for the playoffs after finishing the regular season with a 12-19 overall record  and finishing in fourth place in District 1-1A with a 3-4 record. West St. Mary, seeded #12, will compete in the Division IV bracket this year after being a postseason participant in Division III the past two years. The Wolfpack will play host to the Lady Tigers by virtue of winning District 7-2A with an undefeated 8-0 record and compiling a 14-11 overall record. The victor of the first round contest will play the winner of #5 Midland and #28 Ringgold on February 24th. 

Quitman High School – Playing in the Class B bracket that is returning to the LHSAA postseason scene for the first time since 2022, the Lady Wolverines are seeded #4 and have earned a first round bye after finishing the regular season with a 20-9 overall record and winning the District 1B championship with a 7-0 record. Head coach Kyle Leach’s squad will play the winner of #13 Hathaway and #20 Choudrant on February 24th, looking to advance past the Bi-District round for the first time since the 2011 season. 

Weston High School – The Lady Wolves have also earned a first round bye by virtue of their #8 seeding after ending the regular season with a 21-10 record and coming in second place of District 1B with a 5-3 mark. Under the direction of Stacy Tucker, Weston will play a Bi-District contest against #9 Florien, who also received a first round bye and has a 19-16 overall mark and finished District 3B play in second place with a 3-1 mark. 

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As reported by KEEL Radio 101.7 FM & 710 AM in Shreveport, major changes are coming to Catholic Churches in north Louisiana, including St. Lucy Catholic Church in Hodge, LA, due to what was stated as the problems associated with a shift in demographics and declining attendance at church services and events.

A letter from Bishop Francis Malone was presented in all local churches over the weekend outlining changes that will consolidate churches with combined leadership structures in north Louisiana into new “Families of Faith.”

This plan will put parishes into groups of churches that are served by a team that will will work together to provide the services offered by the church. Resources will be shared and priests will now serve as leaders of more than one church and in many cases, they will lead at least 3 churches.

According the stated plan, Family One of the Eastern Deanery will include St. Thomas of Aquinas Parish in Ruston, St. Lucy in Hodge, St. Benedict Parish in Grambling, and Perpetual Help Church in Farmerville with St. Lucy iand St. Benedict Parish becoming a mission of St. Thomas of Aquinas Parish in Ruston. 

“While change brings challenges, it also offers an opportunity for renewal. As we embark on this journey, let us do so with faith, trust and a shared commitment to serving Christ and His Church as pilgrims of hope” said Bishop Malone. “Let us continue to pray for our diocese, our priests and all who serve, trusting in the Holy Spirit to guide us forward.”

 

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With second place in District 1B on the line and more importantly Class B power ranking points in the balance, Quitman High took care of business by downing Doyline on Tuesday. With the regular season ending victory, Quitman, improves to 23-6 overall and 6-2 in District 1B play while Doyline’s record drops to 22-7 and 4-4.

Having lost a chance for a share of the district title in the February 13th loss to eventual district champ Simsboro, the Wolverines were now faced with Doyline coming to the friendly confines of the QHS gymnasium attempting to forge a tie for second place in district and saddle the Wolverines with their first three game losing streak of the season. 

Gamechanger! With QHS down 24-21 midway through the second quarter, the Wolverines went on a 26-5 run on the strength of a three point barrage, including three on three straight possessions that gave the Wolverines a 47-25 advantage early in the third quarter. 

Rain Makers! As a team, the Wolverines shot 53% from the field making 31 of 58 shots. Noah Leach hit 8 of 11 shots to lead Quitman in scoring with 23 points. Additional “double digit” scorers were Smith, Taden Thomas, Brayden Martin and Caskey with 15, 12, 12 and 11 points respectively. Larsen Thomas added six points and both Abel Leach and Asher Shultz tallied two points each. The Wolverines also “made it rain” 12 times with Brayden Smith, Gavyn Caskey, Taden Thomas and Larsen Thomas all hitting multiple three pointers.  

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