This past week, the Louisiana Department of Education released 2025 LEAP assessment scores. Tremendous improvements were shown at several north Louisiana school districts, including Jackson Parish, which was ranked #3 overall in the state for increasing the number of students scoring Mastery and Advanced.
By improving test scores by an amazing three-point increase from the year before, Jackson Parish School District (JPSD) was one of five school systems, along with Caldwell Parish, East Carroll Parish, City of Monroe District, and Union Parish cited for Top Improving Systems Overall in 3-12 Mastery and one of four in 3-8 Mastery.
In a post (shown below) on the Jackson Parish Schools Facebook page, school district officials acknowledged the impressive gains as being a true concerted team effort by students, parents and teachers of the school system.
Congratulations to Our School Community!
We are thrilled to announce a 3% growth, 3rd overall in the state, on the 2025 LEAP assessments! This achievement is a direct result of the incredible dedication, hard work, and teamwork of our students, parents, and teachers.
To our students – Your perseverance, effort, and focus are truly inspiring.
To our parents – Thank you for your constant support, encouragement, and belief in your children’s success.
To our teachers – Your commitment to excellence and unwavering support for every learner has made this progress possible.
This growth is more than just a number – it’s a reflection of a strong, united school community. Let’s keep striving, learning, and growing together!
Overall, the state saw 25 school systems show improvement, 26 stayed steady, and 18 school systems declined, meaning 74% of school systems improved or maintained their 3-12 Mastery rate. In 3-8 Mastery, 36 school systems saw improvement, 19 school systems stayed steady, and 14 school systems declined as 80% of the school systems in the state improved or maintained their Mastery rate.
“These results are more than just numbers; they’re a reflection of the strong policies our Board has put in place to improve teaching and learning across Louisiana,” said Ronnie Morris, President of the Board of Elementary and Secondary Education.
Forest Haven Nursing Home in Jonesboro recognized the CNA Class of 2025 this past week through the presentation of pins awarded this past week. Congratulations go to Avery Toms, Janiah Walker, Mikaya Nash, Riley Walsworth, Monica Tilley and Ajoriana Hoggro on their accomplishment.
CNA stands for “certified nursing assistant,” an entry-level role that provides vital support to both patients and nurses. From transporting, bathing, and feeding hospital patients to stocking medical supplies and logging patient information, CNAs are on the ground working to enhance patient outcomes. While a CNA is not classified as a nurse, this position is a fantastic entry point for dozens of different nursing careers.
On June 30th, David Claxton retired from being the Jackson Parish School Superintendent for the past nine years. Under his leadership, the Jackson Parish School District showed tremendous improvement in many areas, including increased student enrollment, teacher retention, improvement of structures and athletic facilities at all five JPSD schools and most recently, an incredible advancement of student LEAP scores that saw Jackson Parish ranked #3 overall in the state in improvement.
“Thank you, Mr. David Claxton, for your nine years of dedicated service to the students, staff, and families of Jackson Parish Schools and your tireless work and unwavering support of our schools. We are forever grateful for all you have done to improve our school system. HAPPY RETIREMENT! – Jackson Parish School District
The Jackson Parish Ambulance Service District announces that Deanna Carter has passed the NREMT exam and will now serve her community as an Emergency Medical Technician. Deanna received her course education at the JPASD Training Center, located at 115 Watts Street in Jonesboro.
“We are thankful JPASD has been trusted to bring this life-saving education to Jackson Parish Residents and Responders throughout North Louisiana and congratulate Deanna for looking to make a difference in your community!” – JPASD
The Jackson Parish Golf Course will host the annual Piney Shootout on Saturday, June 12th. The 27-hole tournament that will tee off at 8:00 am will be played in nine-hole formats of a Scramble, 4-Ball, and Shamble.
Scramble Format – Teams play together, selecting the best shot from each position to complete a hole.
4-Ball Format – Each player plays their own ball throughout the round with lowest score taken as team score.
Shamble Format – Each player on a team tee’s off, and the best drive is selected. From there, each player plays their own ball to the hole, with the lowest score taken as the team score.
The entry fee will be $200.00 for each two-person team with a payout of 1st, 2nd and 3rd place over three flights based on a full field. Players 59 and younger will play from the white and blue tees while those 60 and older playing from the yellow and black tees.
To enter contact Peyton Mitchell at (318) 245 – 4915 or Josh Stringer at (318) 475 – 0812.
Each month, the Jackson Parish Hospital (JPH) recognizes an outstanding team member through the presentation of the ‘WOW’ Award. Please join JPH in congratulating James Briggs, Environmental Services Aide, as the July recipient!
James is a standout member of the EVS department, partnered with Jani-King, and is known for his constant smile, friendly attitude, and willingness to help with anything. He truly goes above and beyond every single day.
“Thank you for all that you do, James! We’re so grateful for the positivity and dedication that you bring to our team! You help further advance our mission of providing the very best care to our communities.” – Jackson Parish Hospital
A wide variety of entertaining and educational activities are in store for patrons of both the Jonesboro and Chatham branches of the Jackson Parish Library this week, including the conclusion of the 2025 Summer Reading Program on Friday, July 11.
Also featured is a book signing at the Jonesboro Branch by local author Rosie Simpson on Monday, July 7th, a Cultural Tate Testing Event that will take place at Chatham Branch on Monday and the Jonesboro Branch, July 7-9.
Additional activities at both branches include a presentation by Carrie Miller with the Fort Jessup Historical Site that includes a Musical Petting Zoo, on Wednesday, July 9th. The outstanding array of activities concludes with a special presentation by juggler extraordinaire Wink Danenberg, who will provide an entertaining display along with helping the children create their own set of juggling balls and teach them to juggle at
Monday, July 7th
Monday – Wednesday, July 7-9
Wednesday, July 9th 10:00 am – Jonesboro Branch 2:00 pm – Chatham Branch
Thursday, July 10th @ 2pm (Chatham Branch) Friday, July 11th @ 10am & 2pm (Jonesboro Branch)
The mockingbird is Mississippi’s official state bird; I looked it up. After spending several days in our neighboring state a few years ago, I’m of the opinion that whoever chose the mocker picked the wrong bird. The right choice, in my opinion, was right there all along, soaring, dipping and diving over the Mississippi terrain, the ictinia mississippiensis.
If the Latin name fails to yank your chain, try Mississippi kite. The bird was so named because the first scientific specimen was collected in Mississippi, although the bird makes its summer home in other states as well. All summer long, I have enjoyed watching kites gliding and darting over the pasture across the road from my house but getting to watch Mississippi kites gliding on the Mississippi side of the Mississippi River was all I needed to convince me they should be the state bird of Mississippi.
My introduction to Mississippi kites came several years ago when Joe Mitcham, of Mitcham’s Peach Orchard fame pointed some out to me as they sailed high above his orchard. Later, a friend told me about kites nesting in a big tree in his yard just outside Ruston. On my daily walks at Lincoln Parish Park, I have seen the birds soaring around the lake and have heard reports of kites nesting at the park.
These are beautiful raptors, dark gray and white, measuring a little over a foot in length with a three-foot wingspan. While Mississippi kites will eat frogs, lizards, small snakes and rodents, the principal diet is large insects caught and eaten in mid-air. The dragonfly is the main entrée on the birds’ menu and one source I read mentioned observing Mississippi kites grabbing and eating dragonflies and the resultant shower of glitter around the action as the hapless insects’ disembodied wings, reflected in the sunlight, flutter down.
Last week, Kay and I were parked in town when I noticed a couple of Mississippi kites circling, diving and darting in the sky above us. I quickly learned why they were there when I saw what had their attention; several dragon flies were flying around. I learned something else about these beautiful birds after checking up on them via the Internet.
Someone raised the question about the aggressiveness of Mississippi kites. “They will aggressively defend their nests and will dive at any intruder – including humans – that gets too close. A simple way to avoid getting “attacked” is to leave the area alone until after the chicks fledge.”
Several years ago while taking my daily walk around the lake at Lincoln Parish Park, I happened to stop and glance at movement in an oak above my head. There sat a Mississippi kite giving me a stare-down with its piercing eyes that told me I’d better vamoose if I knew what was good for me. Obviously, there was a nest nearby.
I have been chased from being too near nesting boxes where bluebirds were tending their young or nests in bushes occupied by mockingbirds. These mamas protecting their young were no real threat but one good look at the kite glaring down at me let me know I’d best move along quickly as I for sure didn’t want something as large as a small hawk zooming down on my noggin.
I snapped a quick photo with my phone before skedaddling on down the trail, a photo that shows those menacing red eyes. Had I lingered a few seconds more, I might have found out just what these handsome but fierce-when-protecting-nests birds are capable of.
If you’re out and about our part of the world this summer, be watching for a crow-sized bird circling around overhead. If it’s not a crow, hawk or a vulture, chances are, you’re looking at a Mississippi kite. Just don’t hang around too long where kites are nesting.
”Mississippi kites can be aggressive if they have a nest nearby.” – Glynn Harris photo
FISHING REPORT
CANEY LAKE – Bass are best at night on soft plastics and dark colored crank baits. Some are caught early morning around the grass on topwater lures. Some schooling activity is being noted with fish hitting shad imitations. Crappie are around the deep tops and jigs and shiners are taking some big ones. Bream both chinquapins and bluegills are on the beds and hitting crickets and worms. For information contact Caney Lake Landing at 259-6649, Hooks Marina at 249-2347, Terzia Tackle at 278-4498 or the Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707. BUSSEY BRAKE – Bass have been good early mornings on topwaters and on creature baits, Sinko’s and soft plastics. Crappie are on the flats and are biting on shiners or jigs. The bream are bedding around the edges of the brush. For latest information, contact the Honey Hole at 323-8707. OUACHITA RIVER – High water but on a slow fall. Some bass caught in the cuts and in the back water on buzz baits and spinner baits. Crappie are best in river lakes, bream are biting in the backwaters. For latest information, contact the Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707. LAKE D’ARBONNE – Bass fishing has been best on crank baits, Wobbleheads and Ole Monster plastic worms. Crappie are suspended and best fishing has been in the hottest part of the day on jigs and shiners. Bream are bedding shallow and hitting worms and crickets and catfish are good fishing off the banks. For latest information, call Anderson Sport Center at 368-9669 or Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707. LAKE CLAIBORNE – Crappie fishing has been fair to good on jigs and shiners. Bass are around the banks and hitting topwaters early while later hitting hit jigs, spinners and soft plastics. Bream are on the beds and worms and crickets are producing some nice stringers. Stripers are schooling and hitting shad imitations. For latest information, call Kel’s Cove at 927-2264 or Terzia Tackle at 278-4498. LAKE POVERTY POINT – Catfish are biting. Bass, crappie and bream are slow. For information, contact the marina at 318/878-0101. LAKE YUCATAN – The water is slowly falling but still too high for access to the landing. Needs another week or so. No fishing this week. For info call Surplus City Landing at 318/467-2259.
The Weston High School Cheer team traveled to Natchitoches, LA, this past week to take part in the Universal Cheerleaders Association team camp held on the campus of Northwestern State University.
Not only did the WHS team gain unforgettable memories, but the 15-member squad also came home with several top Small Varsity Division awards, including winning first place in Band Dance, Sideline, and Cheer, along with coming in 2nd place in Camp Routine.
If adventure had an arch-nemesis, it would be my traveling companion: Mr. Excuses. Not a superhero, mind you, unless you consider dodging joy a superpower. His real name is Dave, but I’ve dubbed him Mr. Excuses after surviving five trips together—if “surviving” includes getting stranded at a gas station in Kentucky because “I thought I packed the map.”
Traveling with Mr. Excuses is an experience of lowering expectations and elevating blood pressure. Planning a trip with him is like trying to schedule lunch with a squirrel—evasive, erratic, and occasionally involves acorns.
We once decided to go camping in the Smokies. I was thrilled. Fresh air, starry skies, bears that hopefully minded their own business. But Mr. Excuses texted me the night before: “Can’t go unless my asthmatic cat gets approval from her spiritual healer.” Spoiler: The cat doesn’t exist. Neither does the healer. But you can’t argue with metaphysical pet care.
When we finally did hit the road, he showed up two hours late because “my socks didn’t match the energy of this trip.” The energy? It was 7 a.m. and we were driving a 2008 Honda Civic with a busted speaker.
You’d think the open road would calm his chaos. Nope. Within the first hour he had already claimed: • He forgot his sunglasses (“Light sensitivity—it’s real.”) • The GPS gave him motion sickness (“Maps just know too much.”) • We should stop for “authentic local pastries,” which, in central Alabama, turned out to be stale gas station donuts and regret.
Hotels? Mr. Excuses doesn’t do hotels. “The linens have been slept in by too many vibes.” So, he insists on Airbnb. The one he picked in Nashville was a lovely cardboard box behind a barbecue joint with a “rustic aroma.” I believe the French call that eau de brisket and raccoon.
Dining with him is a performance art piece. At every restaurant, he invents a new dietary restriction. Gluten-free on Monday, lactose-intolerant by Tuesday, fruit-phobic by Wednesday. Once he insisted on ordering “just steam” at a seafood place. “With essence of shrimp, but none of the commitment.”
Still, for all the delays, detours, and deeply spiritual cats, I must admit: the man is entertaining. Sure, he’s a logistical nightmare wrapped in a riddle and dipped in confusion, but life’s a little brighter when Mr. Excuses is around. He adds a dash of absurdity to every itinerary. Plus, his ability to explain away anything could be weaponized in high-stakes diplomacy. Or at least used to get out of jury duty.
So, would I travel with him again? Absolutely. As long as I drive, plan the trip, manage the budget, carry both our suitcases, and bring emergency donuts. Because when the world gives you lemons, Mr. Excuses will likely cite citrus sensitivity and demand you exchange them for mangoes.
We all know Mr. Excuses, let’s avoid being that person.
The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) is excited to announce the launch of a new online Bowhunter Education Course.
This convenient, self-paced course provides hunters with the opportunity to complete their bowhunter education online for $35. The course link can be found by visiting the LDWF website at www.wlf.louisiana.gov under the Education and Events tab.
While Louisiana does not currently require bowhunter education, many other states do require it for bowhunting. This new online course ensures Louisiana hunters understand safe bowhunting practices and are properly certified and eligible to hunt in other states where bowhunter education is mandatory.
“We’re excited to offer this new option to our hunting community,” said LDWF Secretary Tyler Bosworth. “It’s never been easier or more convenient to get certified. This course offers flexibility, accessibility, and ensures our hunters are prepared to meet education requirements across state lines.”
The course includes lessons on bowhunting safety, equipment, wildlife identification, ethical shot placement, and conservation principles. It’s a valuable resource for new and experienced bowhunters alike.
For more information or to start the course, visit www.wlf.louisiana.gov and click on the Education and Events tab.
The long Independence Day weekend gives America’s families the opportunity to celebrate our freedom. Many will enjoy July 4th barbecue meals in parks, backyards and beaches. As the weekend winds down, men and women will work in yards or catch up on household chores. Someone will need to clean the barbecue grill and carry cumbersome trash bags to barrels.
Frazzled, we dread the monotony of Monday and weekday schedules.
Will we really be celebrating our nation’s freedom?
Daily, Christians have the opportunity to celebrate freedom from sin.
Free, free, free …
“For when you were slaves of sin, you were free in regard to righteousness. What fruit did you have then in the things of which you are now ashamed? For the end of those things is death. But now, having been set free from sin and having become slaves of God, you have your fruit to holiness and the end, everlasting life. For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord (Romans 6:20-23 NKJV).”
Slaves of sin can be unshackled and set free.
“Jesus answered them, ‘Most assuredly, I say to you, whoever commits sin is a slave of sin. And a slave does not abide in the house forever, but a son abides forever. Therefore, if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed (John 8:34-36 NKJV).”
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.
CAREER OPPORTUNITY
The Jackson Parish Police Jury is hiring for the following open position. Please submit all applications to: Jackson Parish Police Jury Administrative Building, 160 Industrial Drive, Jonesboro, LA 71251. Applications will be received until 4:30 pm on Friday, July 11, 2025. To request a detailed job description, please contact our office at (318) 259-2361 or by email: nevans@jppj.org.
POSITION: General Laborer DEPARTMENT: Jackson Parish Road Department
Description: Under close supervision, the Road Department General Laborer performs unskilled manual labor, operation of light equipment requiring no special training or experience, and performs related work as required by the supervisor. Laborers in this position class are also responsible for the operation of a variety of construction and maintenance equipment and for performing manual labor activities as needed and/or required by the Road Department.
Minimum Qualifications: • Must be 18 years of age. • High school diploma, or equivalent, required. • Class E Driver’s License; progression towards a CDL license a plus. • Three (3) months of experience in the operation of equipment listed above preferred but not required. • Must be able to lift up to 100 pounds frequently. • Ability to work safely in all weather conditions, including adverse conditions. • Can understand and follow oral and written instructions. • Able to work in elevated areas, confined spaces, and on and off ladders. • Must be able to sit and stand for extended periods of time.
Basic Responsibilities: • The General Laborer is responsible for performing industrial and safety housekeeping of assigned areas following the instructions from their supervisor. • Operates Police Jury-owned vehicles, such as pick-up trucks, backhoe, street sweeper, dump trucks, farm–type tractors, bush hog cutters, boom mowers, etc. as required. • Operates hand and power tools and equipment, such as mowers, chain saws, air compressor, small compaction equipment, etc. as required. • Mows grass and rights of ways with hand power equipment. • Uses hand tools to load and unload sand, dirt, gravel, and hot and cold mix asphalt. • Repairs potholes. • Required to inspect and repair equipment as directed by department procedures, as well as be able to make repairs to parish roads, curbs and sidewalks. • Performs road and ditch maintenance and associated work. • Cleans culverts and other drainage structures including placing rip rap and filter cloth. • Sweep streets, shop, and sidewalks; clean up debris and materials from roads, bridges, and culverts. • Flags traffic when needed. • Manually moves and transports equipment, materials, etc. • Loads and unloads materials from trucks including debris, sand, dirt, gravel, etc. • Cleans trucks, replace blades, and other maintenance of equipment as needed. • Performs building maintenance, cleaning offices, restrooms, and shop as needed. • Assists operators, truck drivers, mechanics etc. with specific projects as requested. • Performs a variety of other heavy manual work in connection with the maintenance of streets, bridges, and drainage of parish roads. • Ready to learn from on-the-job training when necessary. • Follows safety procedures and practices as required, as well as wearing required safety equipment. • Performs other job-related duties as assigned.
Detailed Job Description available upon request.
LEGAL NOTICE
STATE OF LOUISIANA, PARISH OF JACKSON, SECOND JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT PROBATE DOCKET NUMBER 5086 VERDIE CHRISTINE JOHNSON
FIRST NOTICE
NOTICE IS GIVEN, that the Administratrix of this succession has filed a petition for authority to sell immovable property belonging to the deceased at private sale in accordance with the provisions of Article 3281 of the Louisiana Code of Civil Procedure for $133,500.00 Dollars cash. The immovable property proposed to be sold at private sale is described as follows:
A 0.834 acre tract of land situated in the NW¼ of SE¼, Section 23, Township 15 North, Range 2 West, Jackson Parish, Louisiana and being more particularly described as follows, to-wit:
Commencing at a 2½” aluminum post (found) marking the Southeast corner of Section 23, T15N, R2W, Jackson Parish, Louisiana, as per plat of survey by Virgil T. Collins, P.L.S., and run West 2110.50 feet to a point; thence proceed North 1778.31 feet to a P.K. nail (found) marking an intersection with the centerline of Haven Loop Road and the East Right-of-Way line of Hancock Haven Road; thence leaving said centerline proceed the following two courses along the aforementioned East Right-of-Way; N08°01’34″E 56.19 feet to a 3/4″ iron rod (found) and N04°20’32″W 180.00 feet to a 3/4″ iron rod (found) marking the Southwest corner and POINT-OF-BEGINNING of the 0.834 tract of land hereinafter described; thence continue N04°20’32″W along said East Right-of-Way 125.00 feet to a 3/4″ iron rod (set); thence leaving said right-of-way proceed N88°35’27″E 291.00 feet to a 3/4″ iron rod (set); thence proceed S04°20’32” E 125.00 feet to a 3/4″ iron rod (found); thence proceed S88°35’27″W 291.00 feet to the POINT-OF-BEGINNING containing 0.834 acres and being subject to all servitudes of record or of use. All as is shown on that certain plat of survey dated May 27, 2003 by Walter Glen Kirkland, Professional Land Surveyor, Louisiana Reg. No. 4759 together with a Cavalier Model A5010 Mobile Home Serial No. BC03AL0132820A/B.
Municipal Address: 407 Hancock Haven Rd., Jonesboro, LA 71226
Any heir or creditor who opposes the proposed sale must file their opposition within seven (7) days from the day on which the last publication of this notice appears.
Otha Lee Williams January 25, 1938 – June 30, 2025
Otha Lee Williams of Jonesboro passed away on June 30th at the age of 87 years old. Friends, family, and well-wishers are invited to Pleasant Grove Missionary Baptist Church in Jonesboro for a public viewing on Monday, July 7th, that will take place from 10:00 – 11:00 am with the Life Celebration service immediately following.
Gregory C. Harris, Mayor of Chatham, announces that the boil advisory issued for consumers of the Chatham Water System on July 1, 2025, has been lifted.
After a Boil Water Advisory is lifted, it is advised that you flush your pipes by using the following procedure.
(1) Begin with the sink faucet on the lowest floor. (2) Slowly open the cold water sink faucet. Opening slowly allows for the release of trapped air and may reduce the banging noise, known as a “water hammer,” that can occur when water flow and pressure changes as a result of water main repair work. (3) Repeat on each floor, moving from lowest to highest, only opening cold water sink faucets. (4) Once the water runs clear, usually in 5 minutes or less, turn off faucets in the same order, lowest to highest.
Additional precautions to take are:
Flush your refrigerator’s water lines.
If using ice makers, containers should be emptied and wiped clean with a solution of two tablespoons of bleach to one gallon of water then make and dispose of three batches of ice before using
Customers and businesses should also dispose of stored water, drinks, or ice made since the Boil Water Advisory.
Original Boil Advisory Issued for Chatham Water System Notice Published on 7/2/2025
Gregory C. Harris, Mayor of the Village of Chatham announces that the Chatham Water System has been placed under boil advisory by the Louisiana Department of Health because of a break in the main line. This boil advisory only affects Chatham Water Customers.
The break in the main line was caused by someone hitting a fire hydrant on Hwy 4. Therefore, as a precaution, the Chatham Water System is issuing a BOIL ADVISORY effective immediately. This BOIL ADVISORY is to remain in effect until rescinded by the Chatham Water System.
It is recommended that all consumers disinfect their water before consuming it (including fountain drinks), making ice, brushing teeth, or using it for food preparation or rinsing of foods by the following means:
Boil water for one (1) full minute in a clean container.
The one-minute starts after the water has been brought to a rolling boil. (The flat taste can be eliminated by shaking the water in a clean bottle or pouring it from one clean container to another, or by adding a pinch of salt to each quart of water that is boiled.)
Again, please be sure to disinfect your own water prior to consumption until you have been advised otherwise.
Upon notification from the Office of Public Health’s State Regional Laboratory that the samples collected from our water supply have been found to be safe, the State Health Department will notify the water supply of the sample results.
Upon such notification, the Chatham Water System will then rescind the Boil Advisory and notify its customers that the water has been found to be safe.
(l-r) Councilmembers Robbie Siadek & Devin Flowers, Jonesboro Clerk of Court Catrice Hudson, Jonesboro Mayor J. “Spike” Harris, Councilmembers Nia Evans & Robert Hunder
With a final day deadline looming, the Jonesboro Board of Aldermen came together in the Conference Room of City Hall for a special-called meeting on Monday, June 30th, to adopt the 2025-26 budget and avoid sanctions by the state for being non-compliant.
The action was one of 12 Ordinances that were adopted, including seven budget-related items, the amendment of a zoning area, regulation of size and placement of overhead signs, and two items regarding garbage rates and how trash would be collected in the future.
“Despite the problems earlier in the month in getting everyone together, I applaud the Board for coming together and putting the interest of the town at the forefront so that we can continue moving forward,” said Jonesboro Mayor James “Spike” Harris.
What Harris was referring to was the ability to get at least a quorum of Board members in attendance to get the needed business handled after several attempts to convene failed due to not enough members being on hand. After the tragic passing of Councilman James Ginn earlier in June, the board was left with only four members. Quorum requirements stated that at least three members must be present, but in prior attempts to meet, only two were present each time.
Regarding the empty seat, Tracy Ginn, wife of James, was present in hopes that her selection by Mayor Harris to fill the vacancy had been approved by Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry, but was told that the appointment had not yet been confirmed.
After all Ordinances were adopted, the head of each of the town departments came before the council to give their reports, highlighted by the news given by Public Works Director Karl Johnson.
“I am pleased to report that all 50 streets that were on the list to receive overlays have had the work completed and that for the first time in a long time, we completed the month without having to do any major water line repairs,” stated Johnson.
In regard to water developments in the town of Jonesboro, Johnson continued his report by pontificating on the ongoing water meter installation program, stating that 600 of the expected 2700 meters to be put in place had been installed.
“As expected, we encountered a few problems with leaking lines and such, but overall the installation is going smoothly, said Johnson, who asked that council members remind their partitioners to check for leaks before the installation of the meters takes place.
“You will want to have residents of your ward check their lines before we put the meters in place to give them the ability to get any problems fixed before we start reading the meters,” said Johnson. “Now that a consumer is going to be charged for the actual usage, the last thing they want to have happen is seeing a large water bill that is result of leaks in their line or because of things like a toilet constantly running.”
The session closed with Mayor Harris and Council members complimenting the Public Works department for their diligent efforts.
“As you may not know, we are now doing the majority of water and street repairs on our own, along with assistance from the Jackson Parish Police Jury, which has allowed us not to have to rely on outside contractors for work that has proven very costly in the past,” said Harris. “The Council and I applaud Public Works for the great job they are doing.”
On Tuesday, July 1st, William “Billy” Carter assumed the duties as Superintendent of the Jackson Parish School District. Carter was selected by the Jackson Parish School Board on March 13th to replace long-time Superintendent David Claxton, who retired effective June 30th.
Carter comes to the JPSD after 24 years (2001-2025) at Quitman High School, including the last nine as Principal, where he presided over what many recognize as the greatest decade in QHS history as a result of educational and athletic achievements as well as student growth.
A graduate of Brookland High School in Texas, Carter graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Education from Northwestern State University (NSU) in Natchitoches in 1997 before later receiving a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership from NSU in 2005. Carter and his wife, Tara, are also the parents of four children, who he proudly proclaims are all Quitman High School graduates in Ty, Kailee, Emma and Maddie Grace.
With an exceptional ability to build relationships among school organizations, parents and students, Carter looks forward to the challenges ahead and helping Jackson Parish move forward as a school system.
“For the past 24 years, this parish has been my home, and this appointment is one of the greatest honors of my life. I do not take this trust lightly, and I am deeply grateful to the board for their confidence in me. I will work tirelessly to move this district forward and ensure the best possible education for every child in Jackson Parish. Our schools serve as the heart of our communities, benefiting from unwavering support from families, educators, and local partners. We will continue to build upon these strong community relationships to take our district to new heights. Above all, we must always remember that Jackson Parish is about family and community and I look forward to working alongside each of you to create an even brighter future for our students”.-William “Billy” Carter
At 10:00 am on Thursday, July 3rd, the groundbreaking for Jonesboro’s newest neighborhood will take place. On hand will be Sharonda Leonard of Jonesboro, who was selected by Habitat for Humanity for North Louisiana, to be the first of four future homeowners at the 265 Bond Street location back in February.
Joining Leonard for the “dirt turning” is expected to be Habitat for Humanity President / CEO, Kathy Gardner, and board members, along with representatives from Smurfit Westrock and Jonesboro State Bank, who also played a big role in the planned development coming into fruition. Additionally, CEO Kim Brunson of Mercy Medical Health Center in Jonesboro, who graciously donated the land for the development, Jonesboro Mayor James “Spike” Harris, Jackson Parish Police Jury President Todd Culpepper and other various Jackson Parish officials will be present.
“We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Sharonda Leonard to our Habitat family,” said Gardner. “Her dedication to education and her community truly reflects the heart of our mission. It is an honor to walk alongside her on her journey to homeownership. We are also incredibly grateful to Smurfit WestRock for their unwavering commitment to this project. Their employees will be volunteering all the hours needed to build the home, in addition to providing the majority of the funding for materials.”
“Additionally, Jonesboro State Bank has been instrumental in this effort, generously providing essential funding to make this home a reality, continued Gardner. “We are so very grateful for their immense generosity.”
About Habitat for Humanity
Driven by the vision that everyone needs a decent place to live, Habitat for Humanity began in 1976 as a grassroots effort on a community farm in Southern Georgia. The Christian housing organization has since grown to become a leading global nonprofit working in local communities across all 50 states in the U.S., and in more than 70 countries.
Families and individuals in need of a hand-up partner with Habitat for Humanity to build or improve a place they can call home. Habitat homeowners help build their own homes alongside volunteers and pay an affordable mortgage. Through financial support, volunteering, or adding a voice to support affordable housing, everyone can help families achieve the strength, stability, and self-reliance they need to build better lives for themselves. Through shelter, we empower.
For more information on how to support Habitat for Humanity of North Louisiana, please visit hfhnl.org or contact our office at (318) 366-5352.
Hailey Chatham and Ben Ramsey, representing Weston High School and the Northeast Louisiana High School Anglers Tour, were among 383 teams from schools all over the United States and several foreign countries to descend on Grand Lake in Grove, Oklahoma, this past week, for the Student Angler Federation World and National Championship Tournament.
After four intense days of fishing, the local pair finished in 26th place overall and, more importantly, had become the top Co-Angler Team in the World. The incredible achievement earned the pair four-year scholarship checks totalling $280.000.00, two being for $40,000.00 each and the other pair of checks being for $100,000.00 each.
Chatham and Ramsey weren’t the only anglers from Jackson Parish to make a good showing as Hayden Davis and Maddox Duck, representing Quitman High School, also qualified for the 31-team world championships, where they finished in 22nd place overall.
Congratulations to both Jackson Parish team representatives on the fine showing.
The Office of Compliance for the Town of Jonesboro has identified properties that are in Violation of Town Ordinance
Town of Jonesboro Compliance Officer, Austin Ballot has identified several properties that are in Violation of the Town Ordinance Regarding Dilapidated and Dangerous Buildings, and Noxious Weeds, Grass, Etc.
“Each of the owners of these properties have been notified that they are in violation and are required to take measures to bring their property in compliance,” said Ballot.
Each of the properties identified as being dilapidated and dangerous have 15 days to make arrangements to have the buildings removed, torn down or burned to bring the property back into compliance. Those in violation of the Noxious Weeds, Grass, Etc. Ordinance have the same time frame to remove all unsightly and dangerous growth. If left undone, property owner violators face a fine.
Address of Dilapidated/Dangerous Building Properties
326 Fourth Street 611 Seventh Street 617 Cedar Street 413 Central Street 612 South Street 423 Central Street 215 Cedar Street
Address of Noxious Weeds, Grass, Etc. Properties
413 Central Street 612 South Street 423 Central Street 215 Cedar Street 502 Beech Springs Hwy. 503 Northeast Street 412 Northeast Street 109 Napoleon Street 419 Mitchell Street P#0095017210 P#0095012950 P#0105023500 P#0095023000 P#0105004400
(P#’s refer to parcels of properties that have no address)
Come celebrate the 4th of July holidays and join 2025 Grand Marshal, Tammy Gunter, and large cast of boaters who will tour Caney Lake for the 8th annual Caney Lake Flotilla on Saturday, July 5th.
Wa-Hoo Nation came out in force this past Friday – Sunday, June 27-29, as a large contingent of classmates, graduates, and family members associated with Jackson High School in Jonesboro came together to celebrate the tradition-rich 36-years of educational history over the years of 1937 – 1973 during the 15th annual School Wide Reunion.
The gala event began on the morning of Friday, June 27th, when attendees gathered at the Boyer Bell Administration Building in Jonesboro to register for all of the planned activities scheduled to take place over the three-day span.
That evening, the always enjoyed “Purple and White” banquet took place at the Charles H. Garrett Community Center in Jonesboro, where attendees were treated to an inspiring and entertaining message by professional Comedian and Actor, Lee Marvin Adams, who is a 1975 Jonesboro-Hodge High School graduate.
On the morning of Saturday, June 28th, activity returned to the Charles H. Garrett Community Center for a breakfast and annual alumni meeting before shifting outdoors to view the commemorative parade. Featured prominently were past JHS Alumni Associatioin Presidents James Bradford and Dr. Liz White, along with the current President, Gary Mims, serving as Grand Marshals.
Everyone then reconvened at the Charles H. Garrett Community Center for an indoor picnic that led up to “Class Night” later that evening, where former graduation class members enjoyed the opportunity to reconnect with long-lost classmates and friends from other classes as well as remember those who have passed on to their reward.
The memorable event drew to a close on Sunday, June 29th, when all gathered at the Boyer Bell Administration Building for a special Worship Service that featured Dr. Melvin Zeno, who was a 1963 Jackson High School graduate, as guest speaker, followed by a farewell luncheon.
Scenes from Purple & White Banquet
Scenes from the Commemorative Parade
Grand Marshals James Bradford (l) and Dr. Liz White (r). Not shown: Gary Mims
The 2025 LA Sports Hall of Fame Induction Class Credit: Chris Reich/NSU Photographic Services
NATCHITOCHES – The lens through which much of the nation views Louisiana was on full display Saturday night inside the Natchitoches Events Center as the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame welcomed in its 12-person class of 2025.
“A lot of people look at this state through the athletic programs at LSU,” said seven-time national champion college football coach Nick Saban, whose first title came in 2003 at the helm of the Tiger program. “When we were there, we raised the bar and the standard.”
The standard raising and bearing celebrated Saturday night did not begin and end with Saban nor did it end with on-field or competitive accomplishments.
Joining Saban in the induction class was one of his first recruits – West Monroe offensive tackle Andrew Whitworth. Whitworth followed his national championship at LSU with a standout NFL career that culminated in a Super Bowl victory that came after he took home the Walter Payton Man of the Year Award.
Saban lauded Whitworth as epitomizing what the coach wanted his players to become in their post-collegiate career.
Whitworth attributed that to his home state’s culture and what it instilled in him during his formative years in northeast Louisiana.
“Culture is shared belief and values,” he said. “When you have that, it makes it special. I always want to make things better than I found them, and I have been given the blessings and ability to do that. Anything I’m a part of, it will be better because I’m there. The people I do it with are what matters most. That’s our way of life.
“When I think of being at West Monroe, I think about my parents and my teammates’ parents. When we were really successful, they were feeding the whole team and the coaches are pouring into us. At LSU, it was the same thing. You’re just further away from home, but it was a new home. Moms were having us over to eat. Dads were taking us to lunch, asking us what we wanted to do after LSU. It was a support system. Once you get to the league, you have to be the support system. Could I share the values I learned from Louisiana? Making others feel valued. Can you spread that love? Making everyone feel special and feel a part of something sets you up to be successful. That’s our way of life in Louisiana.”
Being that support system for others came naturally to Whitworth and was on display long before his 16-year NFL career that saw him help redefine the legacy of left tackles at football highest level.
“He always poured into other guys,” West Monroe strength and conditioning coach Kirk Frantom said. “Whit was always in tune with his body and always wanted to perform at his highest level, but it wasn’t just the competitiveness. It was the servant’s heart he has.”
Whitworth’s legacy extended to his final NFL stop, winning a Super Bowl with the Los Angeles Rams, a franchise that allowed him to lead almost in lock step with head coach Sean McVay. Whitworth’s relationship with McVay has been well documented, and the two remain close after Whitworth’s retirement from the game.
“Whit always said this is a blessing, not a burden, and that’s the approach he took every day,” McVay said. “He’s the only person to wear the Walter Payton Man of the Year patch and go out and win a Super Bowl to go out. He is the epitome of a special one and of a Hall of Famer.”
While at LSU, Whitworth shared campus with another transformative force – one that came in a much smaller package than his hulking, 6-foot-7, 330-pound frame.
For the second straight year, the Hall opened its doors to a female LSU student-athlete who changed the trajectory of program in Baton Rouge. One year after women’s basketball’s Seimone Augustus walked into the Hall, 14-time All-American gymnast April Burkholder gained entry into the state’s sports shrine.
Just as Augustus did, Burkholder’s presence turned the Pete Maravich Assembly Center into the place to be when LSU competed.
“It was the same time that LSU women’s basketball landed Seimone,” said Hall of Fame coach D-D Breaux, who coached Burkholder throughout her LSU career. “There was so much gain and so much reward with April. She brought a real professional, polished look, a style and a self-confidence in the kind of gymnastics she wanted to do. The program continued to grow. The crowds continued to grow. She was the start of that.”
The All-American honors and the 2006 NCAA beam championship almost never happened. Burkholder faced injuries that threatened her career starting at age 2 with a concussion and a fractured skull.
There were two compound fractures and three surgeries on one of her arms. Amputation of that arm nearly happened.
Yet, Burkholder pushed through and became the standard bearer for an ascendant program that reached a national championship peak in 2024.
“My parents said at one point, ‘We’re OK if you don’t want to do gymnastics again,’” Burkholder said. “I said, ‘What would it all be worth? What would it be for?’ That’s what makes it all worth it. Grit, perseverance, it teaches you throughout your entire life. It teaches you life skills you use forever.”
Burkholder’s place in LSU lore is secure while another set of skills endeared Metairie-raised Danny Granger to his NBA teammates – skills that weren’t the ones that led to him scoring 9,855 points and earning one NBA All-Star selection.
Those helped, but it was the family unit that aided some of Granger’s popularity in the Indiana Pacers locker room, especially when the team visited New Orleans.
“Everybody knew when we would play in New Orleans that I would need 50 tickets or something crazy like that for my family and friends,” said Granger, who could not make the ceremony but spoke via video from Scottsdale, Arizona. “My grandmother, I don’t know how she did it, but she got past security and would leave food on our bus. It was so common that when I left Indiana, one of my former teammates called me and said, ‘We’re going to play in New Orleans. Can you tell your grandmother to bring us some food? I wasn’t there, but she still brought the food.”
While the story brought a roomful of laughter, Granger’s multi-faceted game that took shape at Grace King High School before a stellar college career at New Mexico made life tough on opposing coaches and much easier on his own coach.
“He was that guy,” said Jeryl Fischtziur, Granger’s Grace King coach. “He was a quiet leader, but he always worked so hard. He had a 32 ACT and a 4.0 GPA. Yale was after him really hard. If every kid understood the work ethic Danny had, they’d be better off.”
Injuries scuttled Granger’s pro career and left questions about how many more All-Star Games were in his future. One thing hasn’t changed for Granger when he comes back to New Orleans.
“We try to go back and see my family as much as possible, but we have to fast for about five days before we go, because I know I’m going to eat,” he said. “We are planning to be back there in about four or five months, so I better start working out.”
Workouts were on the menu whenever George “Bobby” Soileau had the eyes and ears of his Sacred Heart football team, part of an impressive second act that rivaled a remarkable first.
A national championship boxer at LSU in the 1950s, Soileau coached Sacred Hart for 30 seasons, winning 159 games, at least a share of nine district titles and a Class B state championship in 1967.
“He goes to LSU and wins a national championship as a sophomore,” journalist Raymond Partsch III said. “Then they killed the program. Now, he doesn’t have the thing he’s most passionate about. The great thing about coach Soileau is he reinvented himself.”
He instilled a toughness in his Trojan teams that helped the Ville Platte-based school compete until the very end – just as he had in the ring.”
“He was a disciplinarian and loved conditioning,” said Soileau’s son, Robert, who spoke on behalf of his father. “That went back to his boxing. He’s stay in the ring and throw and take punches. He brought that to the football field. He had some of his players who went and played at McNeese, and they said, ‘We didn’t do as much conditioning there as we did with coach Bobby.’ He was determined they would win in the fourth quarter.”
Soileau’s legacy lives on in his son, who is Sacred Heart’s head track and field coach and an assistant football coach. As for the elder Soileau, he’s still throwing punches as he battles dementia.
During his son’s speech, a video showed father and son sparring with Bobby Soileau showing he still had the hand speed that wowed Billy Cannon during the two’s shared time together at LSU.
“His hands were super fast,” Robert Soileau said. “He could throw three jabs, and you’d think it was one. Billy Cannon was bragging about my dad and how good a fighter he was. The legend’s telling me he never missed a fight, telling me how great my dad was. When I heard that, I thought he must have been pretty dang good.”
Unlike Robert Soileau who heard stories of his father’s prowess, Neil Weiner had a front-row seat to his father’s construction of a prep football power at Baton Rouge’s Catholic High School.
Four games into his Catholic career, however, it did not appear Dale Weiner was on a Hall of Fame trajectory.
“My very first year as a principal we were 0-4,” said Lisa Harvey, who currently serves as Catholic High’s President. “I remember saying, ‘Dale, if you don’t win this next game, they’re going to run you and me out of here.’”
The wins soon followed – 317 of them to be exact along with a state championship in 2015. Along the way, the Bears went from being the featured opponent for other schools’ Homecoming games to the team no one wanted to face.
Whether it was teams that featured high-wattage stars like Warrick Dunn, Travis Minor and Major Applewhite or more balanced outfits where quality depth was a calling card, Catholic’s surge went hand in hand with Dale Weiner’s faith-based beliefs.
“He saw coaching as a calling,” said Neil Weiner, the head coach at Baton Rouge’s Dunham School. “He wanted to reflect Christ’s love to his players and his school. When Dale Weiner and that mission and Catholic’s mission came together, you got 30 years of excellence.”
The Dale Weiner people who filled Baton Rouge’s Memorial Stadium saw was the same one who drove Neil Weiner to school every day. Dale Weiner attended Saturday’s ceremony after being released from the hospital earlier in the week.
“He was rock steady all the time,” Neil said. “My dad’s my hero. He just never makes mistakes. I wanted to be just like him. Even when I could screw everything up, unconditional love was poured out. Watching him and the way he loved my mom, loved my sisters and raised us is an absolute inspiration.”
The father-son connection between the Soileaus and Weiners was taken even deeper when Delgado baseball coach Joe Scheuermann became a Louisiana Sports Hall of Famer.
With his selection, he joined his father Rags Scheuermann to become the fourth father-son duo in the Hall.
A New Orleans native, Scheuermann has spent 35 seasons following his father as Delgado’s coach, winning more than 1,200 games and taking the Dolphins to five NJCAA World Series appearances. Seven years into his tenure, Scheuermann’s father died a week shy of his 74th birthday. That marked a turning point for the younger Scheuermann.
“I wasn’t a very good coach the first 10 years,” he said. “My father was there, and I was worried about impressing him and not embarrassing him. Once he passed, I started doing it my way. He’s laughing at me right now, but he used to send me notes through our official scorer. I didn’t need them to know I screwed up.”
While Joe Scheuermann may have fretted about embarrassing his father, those who knew baseball could have assuaged those fears.
“When I came to Louisiana, I met a young kid whose father coached the team,” legendary LSU baseball coach Skip Bertman said. “Ultimately, a few years later, he was the coach. I could tell there’s something special about this guy. He’s been a superstar for Louisiana baseball and certainly a Hall of Famer.”
And he has done it by keeping things in the family.
His son, Tyler, is his father’s right-hand man, handling operations, media relations and whatever else is needed.
“That’s a part of the Scheuermanns’ creed,” Tyler said. “The expectation is there is a pass-it-on mentality. My grandfather said, you don’t raise your family for yourself. You raise it for others. There is a mantra that is unspoken and it is a servant leadership that has been a steady presence not just in my dad’s career but generationally.”
Family forged Vickie Johnson’s rise from small-town sensation in Coushatta to Louisiana Tech standout and WNBA trailblazer.
Initially, Johnson’s brother did not want her playing basketball with him and other family members. Johnson took the initiative and found an opening to exploit.
“One Saturday they were playing two-on-two but they only had three players,” she said. “I was lurking in the wings. I secretly practiced for five or six months, because I knew the opportunity would present itself again. When it did, he allowed me to play. From that moment on, he put me under his wing and helped me get there.”
That snub-turned-protector and nurturer began the push that led Johnson to become the first WNBA player to score 4,000 points, grab 1,000 rebounds and hand out 1,000 assists in a career. What it also may have birthed was a pretty effective forearm.
“My first memory of Vickie was her forearm in my hip,” said current Las Vegas Aces coach Becky Hammon, a six-time WNBA All-Star. “It was a reality check. I thought, ‘Oh, man, she’s really strong.’ I did get a lot of my points off her assists. I like to say I helped her in the assists category and she helped me in the points category. She’s one of a kind. They don’t make them like V.J. anymore.”
Johnson fought back tears when speaking about her late mother, who passed away in 2016. It was her mother who “allowed me to dream and dream big.”It was her mother who also may have allowed Louisiana Tech to keep its nascent star.
“There was a moment at Louisiana Tech when coach (Leon) Barmore got on me good,” Johnson said. “I called my mom and said, ‘This guy is crazy. I need to leave.’ She said, ‘I’m going to ask you three questions. You wanted to go to Louisiana Tech?’ I said, ‘Yes, ma’am.’ ‘You signed a scholarship?’ Yes, ma’am. ‘You at Louisiana Tech?’ Yes, ma’am. ‘Then stay your (butt) there.’”
No one has had to convince Danny Broussard to stay at St. Thomas More, although there were – like many first-time coaches – questions about whether he was fit for the job upon his hiring.
A state championship in his first season helped answer those inquiries emphatically and gave rise to a 42-year career that has netted five more state championships for the Cougars. Those, however, came long after Broussard’s first title of any kind.
“I was a high school senior, and they say, ‘We’ve got a 4-H tournament for sixth, seventh and eighth graders,’” Broussard said. “I said, ‘Maybe, I’ll get a team together.’ I practiced them a couple of weeks, go to the tournament and we win it all. I went to school on Monday morning, carrying that championship trophy to our principal. I thought I could make a career out of it.”
Broussard’s trademark high-intensity style has funneled its way through generations of Cougar basketball players.
“He was high-strung and energetic,” said Lyle Mouton, a player on Broussard’s first state championship team before becoming a national champion baseball player at LSU and a major leaguer. “It always showed in his teams. If you’re energetic, your team will feed off it.”
Broussard’s 1,162 career victories are sixth all-time national. He is 171 victories away from setting a national record. If he does, his thank you list will be larger than the throng of people who made the trip from Lafayette to celebrate their coach.
“Tommy Lasorda said he bleeds Dodger Blue,” Broussard said. “I bleed St. Thomas More maroon and blue. We’re a family. That’s what it’s all about.”
Though it wasn’t a family business, a journalism career just made sense to Glenn Guilbeau, one of the two Distinguished Service Award in Sports Journalism honorees.
The son of a devoted LSU sports fan and an original New Orleans Saints ticketholder whose wife was an English teacher, Guilbeau’s DNA prepared him for a career that has seen him win national awards while allowing him a front-row seat to some of the top moments in Louisiana sports history.
“I got to cover the greatest baseball coach of all time in Skip Bertman,” Guilbeau said. “I covered the greatest football coach in Nick Saban. I covered a great basketball coach in John Brady. I enjoyed covering John, and Skip and Nick were really, really special because they’re both teachers. They left a lasting impression on me.”
The same can be said in reverse. Never one to shy away from an opinion or to doggedly latch onto a breaking news story, Guilbeau left his mark on those he covered.
“He’s probably the top journalist I’ve been around in my life in sports,” former LSU baseball coach Paul Mainieri said. “It wasn’t always bells and whistles, but I always respected Glenn. I always thought he was fair.”
Some accusations lobbed at Guilbeau involve a perceived negativity for which the versatile journalist has an explanation.
“I’ve never spoken to a psychologist or an analyst about this, but I was a Saints fan from age seven on, and they didn’t have a winning season until I was 26,” said Guilbeau, who was able to cover the team’s Super Bowl championship. “I remember when I was 14 in 1975, the Saints moved into the Dome and went 2-12. That same year, my baseball team – the (Houston) Astros – finished 40 games out of first place. Ask me why I’m negative.”
Joining Guilbeau, a New Orleans native, in the DSA category Saturday night was New Orleans television institution Ed Daniels, who died of a heart attack in 2024.
A champion for high school sports – not just football – Daniels was a voice for those who may have been overlooked.
“He liked the purity of (high school sports),” said Ro Brown, himself a DSA winner. “He recognized people who would not have been recognized for doing something good. He provided a service to the community. People don’t think about sportscasters doing that. He knew why we do what we do.”
Daniels was represented throughout the weekend by his wife, Robin, and his daughter, Erin. Daniels’ larger-than-life presence was an adjustment for Robin.
“I was comfortable staying in the background,” she said. “It was an adjustment being with someone who is so big and magnanimous. He had the greatest personality and sense of humor. It was eye-opening and humbling. There have been many awards, but he would be so honored by this one.”
Daniels’ reach wasn’t limited to the prep scene.
“I consider him like a Nick Saban,” longtime John Curtis football coach JT Curtis said. “His work ethic was unbelievable. Prep, college, pro, it didn’t matter. Ed was going to be there.”
The same could be said for Herb Vincent, especially as it pertained to the LSU campus.
Vincent, the 2025 Dave Dixon Louisiana Sports Leadership Award winner, graduated from LSU and spent two separate tenures working at his alma mater.
As Saban said, Louisiana often is viewed through the lens of LSU sports. Part of that image was built by Vincent, which caught the attention of the other side of the Baton Rouge campus during his second stop in the state capital.“The chancellor called me and said, ‘I want to stop by your office,’” Vincent said. “I said, ‘You’re the chancellor. I should come to your office.’ He came by and said, ‘I really like what you’re doing with the marketing of the athletic department. We want you to do that for the university.’”
Said LSU athletic administrator Verge Ausberry: “He knew the message to put out there. He knew how LSU needed to look.”
And he had known it for a long time. Legendary LSU sports information director Paul Manasseh allowed Vincent to work in his office as a freshman – a stunning development – sensing something special in Vincent.
Others knew too. After the USFL folded when Vincent was working for the LA Express, Louisiana Sports Hall of Famer Dan McDonald seized on the opportunity to add him to his staff at the then-University of Southwestern Louisiana, knowing full well it was not going to last long.“Herb was basically looking for some place to land, and we had a job opening,” McDonald said. “I thought, this is great, but I knew all along it was a short-term thing.”
Vincent matriculated down I-10 to LSU for the first time and added to a Hollywood-esque time as a Tiger.
“I feel like the Forrest Gump of LSU,” Vincent said. “I was behind the goal posts in the Earthquake Game. I saw the Bluegrass Miracle. I was on the concourse behind home plate for the Warren Morris home run. All that makes for great memories at LSU.”
Saban can understand Vincent’s feelings.
In five seasons, Saban took a 3-8 team and turned it into a national championship, securing LSU’s first national crown in 45 years in 2003.
His first recruiting class included Whitworth with whom he shared induction Saturday. The pair was instrumental in helping broaden the horizons and setting new standards at LSU.
For that, Tiger fans can thank – in large part – Terri Saban.
“We had just gone 10-2 at Michigan State, and I was disappointed in our administration because of their lack of commitment to what we wanted to do,” Saban said. “I was interested in the LSU job. (The LSU contingent) met me in Memphis secretly to interview me for the job. They offered me the job. I said, ‘I can’t take the job. I haven’t been to Baton Rouge.’ I couldn’t go for an interview because if (Michigan State) found out publicly, they’ll absolutely crucify me. So I sent Mrs. Terri – this is the truth – to interview. Mark Emmert’s wife showed her around for two days. There were billboards of who LSU wanted to hire, and my name wasn’t on there.
“She spent two days, and I called and said, ‘What do you think?’ She said, ‘Man, this place needs a lot of work. The stadium is in bad shape. They have no academic support and no academic facilities. The players are not doing well academically. You have to get on the bus and ride to practice from campus because the facilities are separate. The coaches’ offices are in a bank building. I don’t know how you are going to recruit here, but I went in the weight room, and they have some damn good-looking players. ‘ That’s ow I took the job.”
The good-looking players continued to find their way to Baton Rouge under Saban in large part because of the coach’s personality.
“You can’t recruit the type of players he did without the ability to connect,” said former LSU and Dallas Cowboy standout Marcus Spears. “Moving from tight end to defensive end was difficult at 17, 18 years of age. I trusted him blindly and he turned out to be right. There are hundreds of those stories. He has had consistency in his work and elevated people.”
Saban elevated the LSU program to that 2003 national champion, which he said gave him the best feeling in his professional life to that point.
What has transpired in the 21 seasons since also has made Saban flush with Bayou State pride even as he stood across the gridiron from the purple-and-gold clad Tigers.
“I’m proud of the fact that we contributed to the iconic brand LSU has and the state of Louisiana has,” he said. ‘All of us, when we get rid of the self-imposed limitations and accomplish something of significance, it establishes a new horizon. The next time you accomplish it, it’s a new horizon. Then, it becomes the standard, the example for other people. Transformational leadership helps other people reach those horizons as well. I’m really, really proud every time I see LSU. It was a great rivalry (with Alabama), but I’m always proud because we did something to raise the bar and the program has been outstanding ever since.”
