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

When Harmon Ayres was in the 7th grade he had a dream. It was one of him wearing a basketball uniform for Jonesboro-Hodge High School. So what is the big deal about that you ask? Lots of guys and girls over the years have played for the school. You must understand though, that when Ayres entered junior high school in 1946, JHHS didn’t have a team.

By the time he graduated in 1953, Ayres not only was a member of the JHHS basketball team, he was a two time All-Stater and had been instrumental in leading the Tigers to two state championships and a state runner-up finish. 

Talk about a dream coming true! 

It wasn’t an easy ride to get to the mountain top for Ayres though. He worked for every inch of ground gained. His story goes hand in hand with the rise that the Tiger team had over the six year period. 

During his 7th grade year, JHHS went 0-19 on the season, hardly giving any indication that in just a few short years they would be the talk of prep basketball across the state. 

Over the next couple of years Ayres toiled tirelessly to improve his game. It was his freshman year that he finally achieved his dream – somewhat. He was wearing a Tiger uniform but now his dream had taken on a  new definition. After getting a taste of what it was to play he now wanted to star for the Tigers. 

He continued to work! And grow!

During his sophomore season, Ayres started seeing some playing time. He also got to experience what it was like to win a lot of games, as JHHS had a 45-9 season record. Not only that he got to enjoy winning district and the Class A state championship. 

The work continued and so did the growth. No more a gangly, long legged and armed youngster, Ayres now topped well over six feet tall and although still thin was had filled out, able to do battle in the post with anyone. 

Knowing his value to the team during his junior year was going to be in the paint, Ayres worked diligently to become a tremendous rebounder, all the while developing a nice little jumper. JHHS would win 50 games that season, still a school record, but fall in their second straight championship game appearance leaving a bad taste. 

After now seeing his dream of playing for JHHS, the starring for the team and winning a state championship come true, there was only one thing left to do. That was lead the team to another title. 

Mission accomplished!

From dreaming of a chance to play to becoming one of the best players in the state, Ayres led JHHS in scoring and rebounding his senior year. JHHS finished with a 46-6 record during the 1952-53 season that included making it to state championship game for the third straight year and coming home with a second state championship trophy.

His resume shows him being the first JHHS player ever to be named All-State in basketball ball for two consecutive years. He also helped orchestrate the three best winning seasons in JHHS history. 

If Jackson Parish would have had a Sports Hall of Fame back then, it would be fairly reasonable to think that he would have had that dream too. The parish does now and he wouldn’t have to dream anymore about it as he is now a member of the JPSHOF Class 0f 2023. 

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Personnel decisions held most of the agenda spotlight when the Jackson Parish Police Jury held their regularly scheduled monthly meeting on September 19th at the Charles H. Garrett Community Center in Jonesboro. 

The session opened with Todd Lamkin asking Juror members to consider putting speedbumps on Lamkin Road, citing a problem with speeding that he stated was causing a dangerous situation.

“I am here tonight to request something be done on Lamkin Speedway,” said Lamkin when referring to the road that goes in front of his house. “Vehicles are driving 60 and 70 mph down the road and something has to be done about it. The Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office patrols the road regularly but can’t be there all the time and with the large amount of traffic that uses the road, something has to be done. I am requesting that the Police Jury put speed bumps down to slow speeders down as it has become a very dangerous situation.” 

After the public comment portion was completed jurors agreed to give permanent employment status to Wayne Anderson, and to Todd Brazil Teressa Johnson once they have completed their 60 day probationary period. 

In further personnel decisions Kelvin Calahan had his employment extended to October 7th for disability retirement purposes and Charles Robinson was granted extra time to gain his Class  A commercial driver’s license.

The Jury also agreed to advertise for a General Laborer – Grounds Keeper position in the Maintenance Department and allow the Operations Manger, Road Superintendent and Solid Waste Superintendant to use laptop computers for clocking in/out in lieu of using a biometric time clock. 

Dodson Enterprise was approved to handle a drainage issue at the Jackson Parish Museum for a cost of $7,500.00 and Trevor Hall was granted a $2,650.00 contract  to power wash the first floor of the Jackson Parish Courthouse. 

Additional financial considerations approved was moving $811,347.00 that was in a Landfill Closure Fund into a 40 month Certificate of Deposit at the Jonesboro State Bank. Westrock Inc. was also approved for a sales tax exemption for the remainder of the Woodyard Project. 

“We felt that since Westrock has been  been paying sales taxes on the project up to now and has been such a substantial contributor to Jackson Parish that the Jury should honor their request while they are in the middle of their company going through being bought out,” said Police Jury President Todd Culpepper.

Jackson Parish Tax Assessor Glynn Kirkland also appeared before the panel providing information on the 2023 tax assessment for the parish where he indicated that for the first time since 2013 there was an increase in revenue generated. 

“I am pleased to announce that there has been an 8% increase in the tax value from a year ago,’ said Kirkland who explained the reason for the additional funds. “The main reason is that 35 of the 47 tax exemptions held by Westrock expired. There was also an uptick in revenue generated by pipeline activity.”

A request by LaSalle Management to pay discounted rent for using the Sunshine Rood in  the Jackson Parish Administration Building for training purposes died from not receiving a second to the motion. 

In final actions the Jury agreed to change orders in the 2023 Road Program and to approve a substantial completion road contract. The session concluded after Jackson Parish Museum Board president Barbara Johnson gave a report on activities at the Museum. 

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In front of a large crowd of parish wide officials and well wishers, owners Dwayne and Gay Mitchell cut the ceremonial ribbon that officially announced the grand opening of the Chatham Branch of Mitchell’s Pharmacy. 

After decades of providing the best in pharmaceutical care service from their location in Jonesboro, the staff of the Chatham Branch will now be able to give the same to the residents of the eastern part of Jackson Parish.

“Thank you very much to everyone who made our first day so successful at Mitchell’s Pharmacy in Chatham,” said Gay Mitchell. “We were so blessed to have Brother Morrow lead us in prayer as we started our day and we are so thankful to all our employees and Peyton (Mitchell) for all your hard work putting everything together.” 

Amenities of the new location are a drive thru window service, free delivery to Chatham, Caney Lake and Eros areas and a tremendous collection of over the counter drugs, vitamins, health care products and even a gift department. 

The hours of operation are 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, Monday – Friday. You can also call 318-756-7467 for your needs. 

Mitchell’s Pharmacy in Chatham 

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Some of the year’s hottest weather in Louisiana occurs during the oppressive days of August and September. Sure, fall is just around the corner but you wouldn’t know it by glancing at the thermometer with temperatures typically bumping the century mark.

Even though the weather will be hot and miserable, you can bet there will be one group of folks with an eye on the calendar. You’ll see them out in their back yards, sitting on make-do elevated platforms, slinging arrows at targets. They’re Louisiana’s bow hunters and they’re doing what they have to do to get ready for the upcoming bow season which begins, if you can believe it, in just a matter of days.

They’ll be getting in condition for what one bowhunter told me is the “short” game. In golf, it’s the accuracy of the putter that usually separates the hackers from the experts. In bow hunting, the archer’s bow is his putter. He can’t expect to score a “birdie” (or would that be a “buckie”?) if he’s not proficient at shooting accurately from within the range of a bow, which is usually 35 yards or closer. Any deer outside that range is a deer to be watched, not shot at. Thus, becoming proficient with his archery equipment within ethical ranges is a must, and like in golf, there is no substitute for practice, practice and more practice, even if sweat is dripping off your nose and you’re flirting with heat stroke.

Bowhunters know that the deer he’ll be after in a few weeks is quite an adaptable creature. You can cut their woods and they simply move over to an adjoining tract, returning to the clear cut when they’re hungry to feast on succulent new growth that explodes when the forest canopy is opened.

One factor of nature that takes deer longer to adapt to is weather changes. During years of drought, especially in growing season, fewer fawns are born, which impacts the deer situation years down the road. Fewer fawns born this year translate to fewer adult animals to hunt the next couple of seasons.

Another problem not just bowhunters but all deer hunters have faced over the past few years has been milder than normal winters. This situation means that in general, deer have more to eat because succulent plant growth on which they feed lasts on into winter when in normal years, deer are moving about looking for something to eat. During warm weather when the rut is going on, bucks still chase and breed does, but most of the activity is at night when temperatures are more
comfortable. Frustrated hunters hunker down over scrape lines and food plots only to be disappointed.

However, Mother Nature is an equalizer. Granted, the past few winters have been milder and frankly, we’re due for a change. We may not get it, but darn it, we’re due.

It will be interesting to see just how the conditions of last deer season that favored deer and negatively impacted deer hunters will have a bearing on the upcoming deer season. Weather that was too warm and a bumper crop of wildlife foods throughout season meant that deer didn’t have to
move about to find succulent forage. Thus, fewer were harvested. I’m no wildlife biologist but if I had to wager a guess, I’d think that we should have a better season this year.

Why do I think that? Over most of the state, the deer harvest was down last season, which means that more than a few wise old bucks lived to get another year older. With another year of age, this translates out to another year of growing antler mass, the exception being a deer that is past his prime and is basically going downhill.

With the odds hopefully being more in the hunter’s favor this season than last, those hunters who begin their seasons early have a better chance to collect their venison. No group of hunters in the state begins their season earlier than bow hunters. The first Saturday in October is opening day for the majority of the state although some areas will be open as early as mid-September. (Check current regulations for exact dates and areas.)

If you’re a serious bow hunter, you’ve already been out there, slinging arrows at paper targets and tweaking your bow so that when the deer you’re looking for steps out, you’ll be ready.

FISHING REPORT

CANEY LAKE – Bass have been best fishing at night on dark spinners and soft plastics. They are fair to good early mornings on topwater lures with square bill crank baits, spinners and soft plastics working best later. Some bass are schooling and hitting shad imitations. Crappie have been best around the deeper tops on shiners or jigs. Bream are slow. 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.
BLACK BAYOU – No report. Contact Honey Hole Tackle Shop 323-8707 for latest information.
BUSSEY BRAKE –Some are still catching nice bass around the brush on spinners and flipping jigs. The crappie are scattered around the brush. Bream have slowed. For latest information, contact the Honey Hole at 323-8707.
OUACHITA RIVER – The water level is quite low. Bass are slow to fair; some crappie are being caught around submerged tops on jigs. For latest information, contact the Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707.
LAKE D’ARBONNE – Crappie have been fair to good fishing shiners or jigs 8 feet deep in 10-12 foot water. Bass are best early mornings along the grass lines with topwater lures and jerk baits. Bream are slow. Catfish continue to be caught fishing cold worms and night crawlers off the banks. For latest information, call Anderson Sport Center at 368-9669 or Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707.
LAKE CLAIBORNE – The lake is being lowered. Stripers are occasionally schooling and fishing with shad imitation lures picking up a few in the coves early mornings or late afternoons. Bream fishing has been slow. Crappie have been best fishing around the piers on gray jigs. 8-14 deep water with some good ones reported. Also at night fishing under the lights while the bass have been best early mornings on topwater lures and at night on dark plastic worms and spinner
baits with one over 11 pounds reported. For latest information, call Kel’s Cove at 927-2264 or Terzia Tackle at 278-4498.
LAKE POVERTY POINT – Fishing for catfish has improved. Crappie are fair on the south end. No report on bass. For latest reports, call Poverty Point Marina at 318/878-0101. For information, call Surplus City Landing at 318/467-2259.
LAKE YUCATAN – The water level is falling and quite low. Some catfish have been reported and commercial fishermen are catching buffalo. Crappie are slow. For information, call Surplus City Landing at 318/467-2259.

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The facts regarding Opioid use are staggering!

The number of Opioid overdoses have increased in the United State by 1040% over the past decade. Close to 80% of drug overdose deaths over the same period is attributed to the misuse of Opioids. 

First Responders in Jackson Parish are not only aware of the incredible statistics but doing something about it.

Recently the Ward 3 Fire Protection District hosted a Opioid Overdose Training Class at the Jackson Parish Ambulance Service District Training Center led by instructor Jeff Carpenter.

Death following opioid overdose is preventable if the person receives basic life support and the timely administration of the drug naloxone. Naloxone is an antidote to opioids that will reverse the effects of an opioid overdose if administered in time. Naloxone has virtually no effect in people who have not taken opioids.

Those in attendance of the seminar training class were not only taught how to use Naloxone but now the certified Firefighters are equipped with potentially life saving medication.

Opioids are commonly used for management of pain  and include heroin, morphine, codeine, fentanyl, methadone, tramadol, and other similar substances. After intake, opioids can cause euphoria, which is one of the main reasons why they are taken for non-medical reasons.

Opioid use can lead to death due to the effects of opioids on the part of the brain which regulates breathing. An opioid overdose can be identified by a combination of three signs and symptoms:

pinpoint pupils
unconsciousness
difficulties with breathing

 

 

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The best way to predict your future is to create it! That is the lessone that special keynote speaker, O’brian Calahan, will be teaching at a presentation to be held at Jonesboro-Hodge Middle School (J-HMS) gym at 10:00 am on October 5th.

Known for providing an uplifting and inspirational message, Calahan, a JHHS graduate and founder of The Forever Young Foundation and Only Basketball Elite non-profit organizations, recently was the keynote speaker at the Louisiana NAACP state convention. 

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Are you a person of influence? Let me answer that for you. You are certainly a person of influence.

I believe that you have the power to change lives. It is a dangerous power because of the direction you might lead a life. You have the power to influence people for the cause of Christ, or you have the power to run people off from any connection to faith matters. It is up to you. People are watching you and listening to you. In our digital world they are likely recording your actions for play back on TikTok or You Tube. Live your life well. People are watching, so is Jesus. That is another article for another day.

I was thinking about the power of influence one morning at breakfast. I was at breakfast with a group of Baptist preachers. In truth, I was attending a Baptist preacher’s meeting. Now you might find it strange that a Methodist minister was attending a Baptist preacher’s meeting. It was like the time my son wanted a subscription to Cosmopolitan magazine. I wanted to know if my son was having “issues.” I asked, “Andrew why do you want a girl’s magazine subscription?” He said, “It is the other team’s play book!” So maybe I was at the preacher’s meeting, learning what the “other team” was doing.

The truth of the matter is that I was at a Baptist preacher’s meeting along with two of Methodist church members. Now what force of the universe could get a Methodist preacher and two Methodist laypersons to attend a Baptist preacher’s meeting? Was it a great breakfast? The food was good, but that was not it. Does anyone on the face of this planet like a meeting?

The force that attracted us there was a fellow named Woody Cox. Woody was a deacon in the Baptist church, but he was also a world-famous electrician. I’m not sure about world-famous, but lots of folks in Natchitoches knew him. Jesus is the Light of the World, but at First United Methodist Church, Woody kept all of Jesus’ lights on for the Sunday crowd. He had climbed in every attic of the church. He was familiar with every line, circuit, and ballast in that building. He knew bulbs in the Baptist churches as well.

Here’s the thing, while Woody was working, he was working you. You were drawn into his web and he was eventually going to invite you to something or just end up telling you a Jesus story. He never made anyone uncomfortable and always fixed the electrical problem.

Woody Cox has gone on to glory. He knows the light of the world.

He was a great electrician who could get Methodists to go to Baptist preacher’s meetings.

How are you using your Christian influence.

Do you help others “see the light?”

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A fun time for all is promised on Friday, October 27th when Quitman High School hosts the annual Fall Festival. A tremendous lineup of dining opportunity, events and activities awaits beginning with food from the Wolverine Grill at 5:00 pm. 

At 5:30 pm a wide variety of activities and fun things to do will be available including: daring to tour the haunted house, participate in the racecar derby, climb the rock wall, take a train ride and play bingo. Patrons will also get to take the “cake walk”, visit the country store, enter the “basket raffle” and shop at the spirit store. Highlighting the event will be the ability to take the Mindwinder Ride from 6:00 – 8:00 pm 

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Ebenezer Baptist Church invites the members of the congregations of all local churches to join them at the 2023 Family Conference that will be held this coming  weekend. The spirit filled event kicks off at 5:00 pm on Friday, October 6th, with a second session being held at 8:00 am on Saturday, October 7th. 

This event that is free to attend has something for everyone and every age from children, youth and adults with nursery care provided. Come worship and serve the Lord while also being able enjoy meals, breakouts sessions and games. 

To register call (318) 259-889 or go to the Ebenezer Baptist Church website at www.ebenezerfamily.com. You can also register by downloading the QR Code attached to the banner above or image below. 

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The schedule of games in the 2023 fall season for local Junior High schools are beginning to wind down, especially in basketball where by the end of the week both Quitman and Weston will see their season come to a close. 

Highlighting the remaining basketball games will be the final edition of the 2023 Parish Rivalry between Quitman and Weston Junior High Schools. That contest will be played on September 26th at Quitman, with Weston opening the weeks play by hosting Cedar Creek on Monday, Sept. 25th. Quitman will close out their season on Thursday, September 28th when they host Simsboro, while Weston will finish up by hosting Claiborne Christian on Thursday and traveling to Dodson for the season final on Friday, Sept. 29th

There are still several games left on the football season schedule at Jonesboro-Hodge Middle School but even that has reached the half-way point with only three or possibly four games left to be played. JHMS is slated to host Cedar Creek on Tuesday, Sept. 26th followed by another home game against D’Arbonne Woods on Oct. 3rd. A third straight home game will be played on Oct. 10 when Lincoln Prep comes to town setting up a possible rematch at L-Prep at a date and time to be determined.

Remaining Junior High Fall Schedule

DATE	SPORT	HOME	VISITOR	GAME TIME
Sept. 25	Basketball (G&B)	Weston	Cedar Creek	5:00 pm
Sept. 26	Basketball (G&B)	Quitman	Weston	5:00 pm
Sept. 26	Football	JHMS	Cedar Creek	5:30 pm
Sept. 28	Basketball (G&B)	Quitman	Simsboro	5:00 p,
Sept. 28	Basketball (G&B)	Weston	Claiborne Christian	4:30 pm
Sept. 29	Basketball (G&B)	Dodson	Weston	4:00 pm
Oct. 3rd	Football	JHMS	D’arbonne Woods	5:30 p,
Oct. 10	Football	JHMS	Lincoln Prep	5:30 pm
TBA	Football	Lincoln Prep	JHMS	TBA

Junior High recap of games

Weston 7 Choudrant 4 (6th/7th grade girls basketball): Teegan hall scored four points, Tessa Reeves hit a basket and Marcela Gonzalez added a free throw to lift the WJH 6th and 7th grade girls team to the low scoring victory. Choudrant was led by two points each from Harper Foust and Sadie Collinsworth. 

Weston 12 Choudrant 8 (girls basketball): The lid stayed on the basket for both teams when for the junior high girls game with Weston taking the squeaker to improve to 13-5 on the year. Carly Jo Griffin and Carlynn Waters once again led the way as they have all season, scoring five points each with Gracie Gray chipping in with a basket. Kami Young scored four points to lead Choudrant with Lila Marquette and Avery Milstead tallying two each.

Choudrant 56 Weston 10 (boys basketball) The Aggies continued to prove they are the best junior high team in the area with the dominating victory. Malachi Harris scored four to lead the Wolves, followed by Dawson Griffin with three, A.J. Woodard scored two and Remy Kennard hit a free throw to round out the scoring for Weston. 

Jonesboro-Hodge Middle School remains searching for their first victory of the 2023 football campaign after falling to Winnfield by a 16-0 margin and 24-12 to Cedar Creek over the past two weeks. Channing Gray and Braylen Jones had TD receptions of 65 and 68 yards respectively against the Cougars with King Campbell throwing for both and 150 yards passing. 

 

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The administration and staff of Jonesboro-Hodge Elementary School is pleased to announce the members of the 2023 Royal Court. See below for the selection of Mr. and Miss Jonesboro-Hodge for the school and for each class. 

Jonesboro-Hodge Elementary School 2023 Royal Court

MISS JONESBORO-HODGE: Jalonah Amos
MR. JONESBORO-HODGE: Brady Malone

MISS JONESBORO-HODGE KINDERGARTEN: Karlie Thomas
MR. JONESBORO-HODGE KINDERGARTEN: Ezekiel Jackson

MISS JONESBORO-HODGE FIRST GRADE: Kailee Marie Qualls
MR. JONESBORO-HODGE FIRST GRADE: Mitchell Osborne, Jr.

MISS JONESBORO-HODGE SECOND GRADE: Lyvia Hayes
MR. JONESBORO-HODGE SECOND GRADE: Sebastian Love

MISS JONESBORO-HODGE THIRD GRADE: D’Allyua Boston
MR. JONESBORO-HODGE THIRD GRADE: Javion White

MISS JONESBORO-HODGE FOURTH GRADE: Savannah Murphy
MR. JONESBORO-HODGE FOURTH GRADE: Caiden Jackson

 

 

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Tentative dates for three fishing tournaments on Caney Lake has been set by Jackson Parish Tourism Board at their regularly scheduled monthly meeting for September.

Subject to change, the tentative schedule shows the Northeast Anglers Tourney to be held at a date to be announced in February, a high school fishing event on March 23rd, and the National Crappie Invitational at a date to be set in the spring. 

Exploring Jackson Parish was chosen to be the theme of the 2024 Art Contest by Iboard members Tammy Gunter, Kelly Spangler, Christie Weeks, Deneise Barlow and Sandy Joynor in additional business.

A review of the 2023 Art Contest was also given and promotional items for upcoming events were said to be partially received (final delivery expected by end of October). Before the session ended it was also brought up that the board was waiting to hear from the Jackson Parish Police Jury on when the sign at Ebenezer launch on Caney Lake would be received. 

The Jackson Parish Tourism Board (JPTB) was established by ordinance in April of 1988 to be responsible for meeting regularly to review, discuss, and take action to promote tourism through development, maintenance, and initiative of the tourist industry and to preserve and develop historic sites and areas, museums, and tourist attractions throughout Jackson Parish.

To learn more on upcoming events or about the JPTB you can visit the website: https://visitjacksonparish.com/

The next meeting of the JPTB is scheduled to take place at 5:30 pm on Tuesday, October 23rd in the Sunshine Room of the Jackson Parish Administration Building, located at 160 Industrial Drive in Jonesboro. 

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On September 20th, the Jackson Parish Heritage Quilting Guild honored U.S. Armed Forces Veteran Ronald Lowery by presenting him with a special, hand-made quilt in recognition of his service.

Arnold.  who is a resident of Forest Haven Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Jonesboro, served in the Army from March of 1971 to March of 1973. He did his basic training at Fort Polk, followed by his Military Police School at Fort Gordon in Georgia, all leading to his time a Schofield Barracks in Hawaii. During his two years in the Army he reached the rank of E4.

The Heritage Quilt Guild meets at 9:30 am on the 1st Wednesday of each month  at the Jonesboro-Hodge Methodist Church, located at 402 4th Street in Jonesboro. The non-profit charity organization provides a means for quilters and guild lovers to promote the appreciation and preservation of quilts and share the art so it can be handed down to others.

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Jonesboro-Hodge High School would like to invite any business in Jackson Parish to participate in our College and Career Fair to be held Tuesday, October 10, 2023, 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm in our gym.

We will provide one table and two chairs for each business setup. This event is open to our 9th – 12th grade students and their parents. We hope this will encourage our students and parents to consider working in our local community businesses.

Even if you do not have pamphlets or flyers to pass out, we would invite you to come answer questions that these students and parents might have about your business.

For more information or to sign up contact JHHS Counselor Debbie Connor at (318) 259-5013 or by email at debbie.connor@jpsbschools.us

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The administration and staff of the two branches of the Jackson Parish Library (JPL) are some of the most talented and creative group of people you can find anywhere. Now they even know how to save your life. 

On September 19th, the Jackson Parish Ambulance Service District welcomed the JPL to the JPASD Training Center where CPR and AED First Aid training was provided by instructors Jo Lynn Smith and Jeff Carpenter.

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The Forever Young Foundation and Only Basketball Elite, two non-profit organizations founded by JHHS graduate O’Brian Calahan, is proud to announce that the HOCO 2023 Basketball Camp will take place on Saturday, October 7th. at the Jonesboro Hodge High School Gymnasium. 

There are two sessions that are both free with prior registration that will take place at the Jonesboro-Hodge High School gymnasium. The first will run from 9:00 – 11:00 am for boys and girls ages of 5-9 and the second being from 12:00 – 2:00 pm for youth aged 10-18. 

To register go to website www.onlybasketballelite.com

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Fall is almost here and lattes are in hand, so what better way to prepare for the chilly season than to watch our TRSL fall webinars? Grab your favorite cozy blanket and join us for our upcoming webinars so you can head into autumn feeling confident about your retirement. We can’t wait to see you there!

Register for an upcoming session!

TRSL Class of 2024
For members planning to retire at the end of 2023-24 school year.
Sept. 21, 2023 @ 4 p.m. – Register

Understanding Member Access
Learn about all the resources available at your fingertips.
Oct. 19, 2023 @ 4 p.m. – Register

Early Career
For members with 0-10 years of TRSL service credit.
Nov. 20, 2023 @ 2 p.m. – Register

Mid Career
For members with 10-20 years of TRSL service credit.
Nov. 20, 2023 @ 4 p.m. – Register

Retirement Ready
For members within 5 years of retirement.
Dec. 7, 2023 @ 4 p.m. – Register

Your Retirement Options
Overview of TRSL membership, the benefit formula, retirement eligibility, types of retirement, retirement options, and sick leave.
Dec. 18, 2023 @ 4 p.m. – Register

DROP & Beyond
Overview of DROP participation before and after retirement.
Sept. 26, 2023 @ 4:30 p.m. – Register
Nov. 21, 2023 @ 2:00 p.m. – Register

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So-So

I’m a Yankee; my husband Norm is a rebel. Our accents and slang have often revealed the difference; at times I’ve been clueless. If asked how he was doing, he’d said fair to middling. I had no idea what he meant. What in the world?

World travelers might have heard the expression but I had not. Learning that a good definition is so-so, I understand. He wasn’t feeling really bad; yet, he wasn’t 100% either. My answer to the same question often requires no verbal response; I simply hold up my right hand and rock it side to side. That’s how I say so-so!

How’re you doin’ today?

God’s grace is sufficient. The Lord is with us on our fair to middling days; He’ll strengthen us when we’re weary and weak.

“And He has said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness.’ Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me. Therefore I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in distresses, in persecutions, in difficulties, in behalf of Christ; for when I am weak, then I am strong (2 Corinthians 12:9-10 NASB).”

Accept His grace today.

I sincerely hope you’re having much better than a fair to middling day. I’m in agreement with Apostle John.

“Dear friend, I pray that you may prosper in every way and be in good health physically just as you are spiritually (3 John 1:2 HCSB).”

 

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PUBLIC NOTICE

JACKSON PARISH TOURISM BOARD
Minutes for Meeting Held September 2023

Notice Posted: September 11, 2023 @ 9:00 AM
Meeting Date: September 12, 2023, TIME: 5:30
PLACE OF MEETING: The Sunshine Room 160 Industrial Dr., Jonesboro, LA 71251
Roll Call: T. Gunter, K. Spangler, C. Weeks, D. Barlow, S. Joyner
Invocation and Pledge: T. Gunter gave the invocation with D. Barlow leading the pledge.
Public Comments / Recognition of Guests:
WELCOME NEW MEMBER- Sandy Joyner
Approval of Minutes of the August 2023 meeting: Motion made by D. Barlow second by T. Gunter to approve the minutes as presented. All in favor, Yea.
Approval of the August 2023 Financials and Pay Bills: Motion made by K. Spangler second by S. Joyner to approve the financials as presented. All in favor, Yea.
Review Old Business:
a. Art contest- was a success with a beautiful reception following held at the library. Theme for
2024 contest will be Exploring Jackson Parish.
b. Promotional items-received partial order rest to arrive by end of October.
c. Tournaments-2024 tentative schedule -Northeast Anglers-February, Highschool March 23, National Crappie in Spring.
Discuss New Business:
a. Ebenezer Park sign-waiting for JPPJ -review next meeting
Other Business:
Adjournment – 6:30 – Motion by D. Barlow second by T. Gunter to adjourn the meeting. Next meeting scheduled for Tuesday, October 10, 2023, at 5:30PM

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

But this time that exactly what it was!

And it was performed by a native of Jackson Parish.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

Keys to Victory!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Harris further explained how the new system would work. 

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

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

Jonesboro Assistant Police Chief Warren Johnson explained. 

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

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

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

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

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

 

 

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