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AFTER 25 YEARS OF SERVICE to State Farm Insurance Mrs. JoeAnn Edwards officially said good-bye with a retirement party. She was a presented with this plaque along with a beautiful turquoise pendant and necklace. "I've really enjoyed my time here," she said. Mrs. JoeAnn came to work at State Farm as temporary help the day after she retired from teaching in 1976 and the rest is history. Although officially retired Mrs. Joe Ann said she will still be around the office helping new agent Russ Wood and staff get settled in. In the banner at the top is Maura Edwards (from left), Nancy Lasyone, Russell Wood, JoeAnn Edwards, Lois Herron, and Aliana Lee.

Ross - Bucur Engagement

Mr. and Mrs. Terry Ross of Westlake, Louisiana announce the engagement of their daughter, Amy Nicole Ross to Gregory Eric Bucur, son of Mr. and Mrs. George Bucur of Grayslake, Illinois.  The wedding is planned for February 19, 2011 to be held at The Brickhouse in Lake Charles, La.  The couple will reside in Pflugerville, Texas. (Editor's note: Amy is the neice of Donna and Glenn Tiser of Jonesville and a former Jonesville native.)

Wednesday afternoon this vehicle belonging to Albert Stevenson Jr., caught fire while at the drive-thru window at Catahoula-LaSalle Bank on Mound Street in Jonesville. Fortunately his father was also in the line and quickly pushed the vehicle out to the parking area where it proceeded to burn to the ground. Unfortunately, the port-a-potty for bank construction workers was unabled to be saved in the fire. Special thanks to Janice Smith for this photo and info. Watch the Video

Block football players Tanner Coldiron (left), William Cummings, Jamal Maclin, and Renardo Fox (not picture) attended the LSU Football Camp July 18-21st.

Black River Roundup Through a Clown's Eyes

Sunday, August 1, 2010 - Wranger the Clown

The 33rd edition of the Black River Rodeo has come and gone. Despite the rain and mud it didn't dampen the spirit of the crowds, riders, and us clowns. Hi, I’m Wrangler, your hometown clown. I am probably better known to most of you as Justin Spinks, Fire Chief of Parhams and a correctional officer at Catahoula Corrections.

This year I had the honor of working with the rodeo associations “Clown of the Year Act” Jeff Cupp. He had several acts he permitted to take part in. After all my top priority was to not get run over by a horse, bull, cow or calf and secondly help Jeff in any way I could. >>>more

Results from the 41st annual Louisiana 4-H and FFA State Horse Show held July 6-10 have been released and here are the Catahoula, LaSalle, and Concordia winners.

Individual Demonstration, Senior Division: fifth, Siarrah Thomas, LaSalle.

Junior Team Halter: third, Siarrah Thomas, Jessilyn Sandifer, Jacob Chandler and M'lynn Tiner, LaSalle;

Junior Team Performance: fourth, Siarrah Thomas, Jessilyn Sandifer, Jacob Chandler and M'lynn Tiner, LaSalle;

High Team Junior: third, Siarrah Thomas, Jessilyn Sandifer, Jacob Chandler and M'lynn Tiner, LaSalle;

Breakaway Roping, 14 and over: second, Jordan Hudspeth LaSalle;

Breakaway Roping, 13 and under: first, Bethany Hudspeth, LaSalle;

Stake Race, 13 and under: seventh, Taylor Bignar, LaSalle;

Stake Race, 14 and over: seventh, Jordan Hudspeth, LaSalle;

Pole Bending, 13 and under: second, Kailey Bignar, LaSalle;

Pole Bending, 14 and over: fifth, Justin Fletcher, Concordia;

Barrel Racing, 13 and under: second, Jessi White, Catahoula;

Western Horsemanship, 14 and over: fifth, Kathleen Ray, Rapides;

Appaloosa Horse Gelding, all ages: reserve, Mallori Bell, LaSalle;

Appaloosa Horse Mares, all ages: champion, Irvin Bell, LaSalle;

One thousand three students at Northwestern State University have been named to the honor roll for the spring 2010 semester, according to Registrar Lillie Frazier Bell. Students on the honor roll must be enrolled full-time at Northwestern and have a grade point average for the spring semester of between 3.0 and 3.49. Those students from Central Louisiana named, listed by hometown, were: Jonesville -- LaRhonda Renee Duncan, Jessica LeAnn Edwards, Linsey Meyers, Lacie L Smith.

The Louisiana College Office of Academic Affairs has announced its dean's list for the 2010 spring semester. Jordan Wade, Jonesville;

From Jonesville Mayor Hiram Evans: Somebody's been dumping household furniture, mattresses, wooden pallets, etc., behind the seawall almost under the bridge. If someone needs stuff like this hauled away, they should call the town shop (339-6638) and let them know so the truck can come by and pick it up.

Keegan Randall celebrated her 1st Birthday on July 13 at El Nopal's with lots of family and firends, including Grant Coley. The duo share the same birthday on July 14th. Keegan is shown here having her birthday cake and eating it too but shares some with Grant. She is the daughter of Jennifer Williams and Darron Randall of Jonesville.

Place your order for Angel Food Ministries food boxes

The July menu for Angel Food Ministries has been posted here. Remember, you can order ANY box by itself (you no longer need to order the regular box to get the specials). You can also order online using a credit card or SNAP card.
 
Order dates at Monterey First Baptist Church for July

                                          Monday, 7/12/10              9 am - Noon
                                          Wednesday, 7/14/10         9am - Noon
                                          Thursday, 7/15/10            9am - Noon
                                          Monday, 7/19/10              9am - Noon
                                          Wednesday, 7/21/10         9am - Noon
                                          Thursday, 7/22/10            9am - 2pm
You may order online at www.angelfoodministries.com until Noon on Sunday, July 25.
 
Please call or email me (601-660-1579 cell, 318-386-6119 home) or Monterey FBC (318-336-2821) if you have any questions.

Thank You!

A big thank-you to all the businesses for their donations and to everyone who participated in our 12th annual Juneteenth Celebration. This continues to be a very successful event due to the outstanding support from our community. Councilwoman Josie Bullitts on behalf of the Town of Jonesville

On June 6, the Harrisonburg Masonic Lodge presented local teens with the Honesty and Inegrity Awards as well as the Patriotism Award. Shown presenting the awards are Tim Lewis (left) and Jim Lewis (right), pictured receiving their awards are:  Riley Crawford (from left), Elisa Boothe, Barrett Routon (Patriotism Award), and Melanie McLendon.

Births

Rapides Regional Medical Center

Congratulations to Jason and Melissa (Procell) Perrin of Harrisonburg, a daughter, Katie Michelle, 6 lbs. 11 1/2 oz.

Congratulations to Iry III and Ashley (Evans) Marceaux of Jonesville, a daughter, Madelyn Lee, 7 lbs. 8 1/2 oz.

Christus St. Frances Cabrini Hospital

Congratulations to Paul and Heather (Herrington) Burlew of Jonesville, a son, Braxton Anthony, 7 lbs. 3 oz.

 

The Catahoula Parish Dixie Minors, 9 and 10 year olds, will begin play Saturday, July 3rd in Winnsboro. Making the team this year were Brennon Lippman (front row, from left), Christain Carter, Chandler Spinks, Avery Smith, Braxton Tiffee and DJ Long. On the back row is head coach Eric Smith, Elijah McCormack, Sidney Tubre, Hunter Book, Hunter McEntyre, Zorian Bowie, Alex Humphries, and coach Mike Tubre. (Not pictured coach Joe Higdon)

 

Congratulations and good luck to the Jonesville seven and eight year old Dixie Darlings. They are (front row from left)Tiara Jefferson, Emma Smith, Miracle Fisher, Niay'Zavea O'Steen, Ta'Dravia Johnson, Abbey Hardie. Second row Diamond Long, Jessi Sanson, Semeria Watson, Grace Paulk, Laila Hood. Coaches Kristal Hardie, Holli Sanson, Greg Hood, and Gary Vines.

 

A lot of people in Catahoula Parish had some high winds and very dark skies without much rain Sunday afternoon around 3 PM. For Carl Book and his wife in Leland they were sitting on their porch when lightning struck a pecan tree in their back yard. According to Jerry Price who took these photos for the Co-op it blew bark up to 50-60 feet from the tree.Then the old Methodist Church across the street from the Courthouse in Harrisonburg got this tree blown into it. Fortunately, no was hurt in either incident.

 

Leighton Hodges (left) is the 2010 recipient of the Vince Davis Award from the Catahoula Dixie Youth Baseball Association and presented by League President Eric Smith.  This award is given each year to a player that has overcome hardships and still plays the game.  Leighton is the son of Jill and Gary Smith of Harrisonburg and Raymond Hodges of Columbia.  He has an older sister, Macy, and a younger brother, Christopher.  Leighton is going to be a 6th grader at Harrisonburg Elementary next school year. (Photo Courtesy of Tonya O. Smith)

 

Saturday June 12, 2010, Island Hilltop archery opened with James Vines taking First Place in the fixed pins category. He shot the tournament with a Mathews Z7 Bow, shooting 6 over for the Win. If you or a child would like enjoy the fun in archery, join Sicily Island Hilltop Archery Club. For more information about joining call Barry Jenkins 318-389-4250 (Photo by Ronnie Swayze).

Block High School All American Barbara Henderson, who now lives in Houston was back in Jonesville for a four day camp at Block with high school age girls. Shown here are Henderson (left) with two returning members of the Block Lady Bears Desiree Savage and Ta'Chundra Jefferson.

Henderson helped Jordan Hudspeth (left) and Brittany Hardie during the Mikan drill.

Community Services Office Offers Special "Thank You"

Wednesday, June 9, 2010 - Daleria Walker  

The Catahoula Parish Office of Community Services would like to say a special “Thank You” to all businesses and individuals who donated items for the Annual Foster Parent Banquet honoring our local Foster Parents that was held on May 27, 2010.  Your generosity helped make the banquet a huge success.  I sincerely appreciate your kindness. 

Jonesville Native Part of Pineville Graduating History

Tuesday, May 25, 2010

On Monday, May 10 Pineville High School graduated it largest class in school history.  Jonesville native Caroline Brooke Morgan was a member of the historic class. She and ten of her classmates were honored to be distinguished graduates due to a 4.0 or better GPA, being a member of National Honor Society, and recipient of an Academic Endorsement.

Caroline was honored by the University of Louisiana at Monroe with a four year academic scholarship and the Key Club Scholarship for outstanding service to the community. 

She is the daughter Jennifer Brooks Scott and Tal Morgan and granddaughter of Vickie and Billy Brooks; Delores and Sewell Morgan, all former residents of Jonesville.

Jonesville native Caroline Brooke Morgan was a member of Pineville's largest graduation class in their history and received a full four-year academic scholarship to ULM.

Video Documentary Looking for Catahoula Information

Tuesday, May 25, 2010

I am in the process of putting together a video documentary about "Catahoula".  If will focus on the Lake, the dog, and the history. I need pictures and any information that would pertain to any of the above. Deadline June 1.  Email info to: tuskahommacatahoulas@gmail.com If your information is used, you will receive a complimentary copy, if not it will be available for purchase after June 12th. Thanks Renee'

Pentecost, Aplin Hold Annual "Bird Folder" Competition

Friday, May 21, 2010 - Tonya O. Smith

 

Mrs. Ann Pentecost held her annual "bird folder" competition again with the help of Mrs. Grace Aplin.  Mrs. Grace made her usual visits to the 3rd grade classroom to educate the students about the many types of birds. The winners were Derick Mason (from left) 1st; Leah Delhoste 2nd; Loren Cater 3rd; Isaac Bath 4th; Jessica Sanson 5th (not pictured); Calista Arnold 6th; and Mrs. Grace Aplin.

Pastor Gary Norris Highest Bidder in Youth Cake Auction

Sunday, May 16, 2010 - David W. Ryan

 

Bro. Gary Norris poses with his wife's German Chocolate Cake he "had" to bid on and "better" have won and he did. It took a winning bid of $700 but it all went to a great cause as the First Baptist Church youth will travel to Centerfuge at Mississippi College. The 14 cakes and pies took in a total $2,980. Mr. Ladelle Sandifer gave a valiant effort as he bid and won his wife's Mandarin Orange cake with a bid of $320 and Howard Hardie made sure he got his wife's Turtle Cheesecake for $600.

Swayze take 1st in Georgia Tournament with "Shoot-Off"

Thursday, May 13, 2010 - David W. Ryan

 

Harrisonburg's Ronnie Swayze won 1st place in the Seniors Class of an Archery Shooter's Association (ASA) tournament in Augusta, Georgia last month. Competing against 43 other shooters from through out the United States, Swayze's first shot in the "Shoot-Off" was enough to claim the title. (Photo courtesy of Pam Swayze.)

Alligator Hit and Killed by Vehicle While Crossing Highway

Wednesday, May 12, 2010 - Justin B. Spinks

 

Justin B. Spinks sent us these photos of an alligator who had been hit by a vehicle around 11 PM Monday night on the Concordia side of the Black River Bridge as it tried to cross Highway 84. According to Spinks the alligator was at least nine foot long. The first photo is of Jonesville Police Officer Anita Gable who investigated the accident and the second is David Chevallier, part of the Jonesville Fire and Rescue Department.

Monterey Fire Department Ready to Move Trucks In

Tuesday, May 11, 2010 - Kathleen Stevens

 

MONTEREY FIRE Protection District # 1 may be moving trucks into the two bays at the newly constructed Fire Station this week, according to Fire Chief Jim Graves. The new fire station, located next door to the new Concordia Parish Sheriff’s Office Monterey Substation on Hwy 129, has been constructed with the assistance of the Concordia Parish Sheriff’s Office. Besides the two bays, it will feature electric doors, an office area, a meeting room, and a restroom facility. The old station located across the highway from Monterey High School, will be used for storage. (Courtesy Photo by Marilyn Campbell)

Council on Aging Hosting Health Fair and Raffling Quilt

Wednesday, May 5, 2010 - David W. Ryan

 

Catahoula Council on Aging, will hold a Health Fair on June 4th 2010. This beautiful quilt being displayed by Mary Bert Arnold (left) and Mary Rushing will be raffled on during the Health Fair. Go by the Jonesville Catahoula Council on Aging to get your $1 chance.

With Dry Weather Lots of Work Getting Done on Highway

Wednesday, May 5, 2010 - David W. Ryan

 

For those of you don't get to Jonesville much or live out of town now, here is the new approach work going to the Little River Bridge. Where you see the gravel being spread is approximately where the old Driver's license building was located and is almost directly across from Southern Heritage Bank.

Dixie Youth Have Successful Fish Fry Fundraiser

Monday, May 3, 2010 - David W. Ryan

 

Justin Hardie (left) and Chad Spinks had to fry up some serious amounts of catfish, french fries, and hush puppies for the 600 plate lunches the Catahoula Dixie Youth fundraiser sold. Many more helped with the organizing, selling, and distributing of the plates including the Catahoula Correctional Facility. Also a big thank you goes out to Pete Herring Catfish in Wisner who donated 200 pounds of catfish filet. Proceeds from the fundraiser will go to build much needed batting cages at the Dixie Youth complex.

National Guardsmen Spend Day Reading at Monterey

Wednesday,April 28, 2010 - Marilyn Lawrence Campbell

SPC Jesse Silas, of Shreveport (from left), SPC Chris Escott, of Pineville, and SPC Zach Chappell of Leesville, visited Monterey Thursday, April 22, 2010, to read to Mrs. Gigi Campbell and Mrs. Donna Woodruff's kindergarten classes at Monterey High School.  They read the book You Are Sunshine by Shirley L. Porter, which is distributed by the hard work and dedication of the LOUISIANA NATIONAL GUARD.  Each kindergarten student was given a copy of the book by the guardsmen who are with the 2228th MP Co. at Camp Beauregard.

Relay for Life: Be Someone's Hero by Donating Blood

Wednesday,April 28, 2010

LifeShare Blood Centers will once again be at the Relay for Life in Jonesville this year.  Thanks to the Block High School football team and others, 28 units of blood were collected during last year’s relay for Life.  Cancer patients often require blood transfusions during the course of their treatment.  In fact, statistics show that cancer patients may require on the average about 8 units of blood per week.  The LifeShare Bus will be at the Relay from 5pm until 8pm.  Everyone is encouraged to be someone’s hero, by donating their life-saving blood.

Clayton Couple Take Down 403 Pound Boar Hog

Sunday,April 25, 2010

Jean and Hebert Ellis of Clayton, La., took a 430-pound boar hog April 3 with the Red Leper Catahoula Curr dogs. (Courtesy Photo)

Monterey Third Graders Complete Study of Solar System

Friday, April 23, 2010 - Marilyn Lawrence Campbell

Mrs.  Dee Dee Cooper’s class (from left):  Joshua Campbell, Mallory Barlow, Will Cobb, Shealyn Cupit, Madison Passman, Alec Dickson, Braxton Tiffee, Dylan Palmer, Camryn Poole, Blake Arnold, Joseph Poole, Robert Kemp, Reed Wilson, Leah Carlton.

Mrs. Pam Ganey’s class (from left):  Garion White, Zach Smith, Tyler Keyes, Bretlyn Bairnsfather, Caroline Stevens, Rhonda Cross, Hobie Little, Aja Assad, Aislyn Dryg, Hunter Lipsey, Trey Poole, Adrianna Stanley, Katie Tarver, Zach Moreland, Jewel Drummer, Lia Dodge.

McClure, Wilson off to do God's Work in Haiti

Monday, April 19, 2010 - David W.Ryan

HAITI MAY NEVER BE THE SAME AGAIN -- Jonesville's Debbie McClure (left) and Anna Wilson left Saturday on a Xtreme Missionary Adventures (XMA) trip to Put Port au Prince, Haiti to assist in construction of a GAIN (Global Aid Network) distribution center as the country continues to recover from the devastating earthquake on January 12th.

Dr. Fairest Hill Motivates and Energizes Parish Students

Monday, April 19, 2010 - David W.Ryan

Prior to the LEAP tests last week in Catahoula Parish, Special Education Supervisor Evelyn Wilkerson brought in international motivator and speaker Dr. Fairest Hill to help energizes parish students to prepare for the LEAP tests.

“He has been a real motivation in the past and we have always had a lot of success from him,” Wilkerson said at his final stop on the day long journey from Martin Junior High to Jonesville Junior High.

Hill uses the power of suggestion along with music and exercise to get his message across “Yes you can.”

Dr. Fairest Hill conducts an after school session at Jonesville Jr. High to motivate students during LEAP testing.

Duo “Takes All” in the Whale-of-a-Bass Fishing Tourney

Monday, April 12, 2010 - Morgan McMillin Woods

This past Saturday the father and son duo of Keith and Wes Edwards won 1st place in the Whale-of-a-Bass Fishing Tournament on Brushley Bayou. The Edwards’ won with a total weight of approximately 10 pounds. The tournament started at 1 PM and the weigh-in was at 6:30 PM.

Speaking on the condition of anonymity, one competitor said they caught the fish on a “yumdinger.” Using the “Winner Takes All” format, the Edwards’ won the $300 pot with 10 boats entered at $30 per boat.

Everyone who attended the event would like to say a special “Thank You” to Ken King and Jeffery Estes for cooking the pork, “It was um-um good!”

Louisiana School Board Association Art Contest Winners K-4 are: 1st- Tiffany Ferrington, 2nd- Leah Delhoste, 3rd- Madison Franklin; Honorable Mention -Hannah Tolar, Honorable Mention- Talynn Smith

Louisiana School Board Association Art Contest Winners 5-8 are: 1st- Jacob Towell, 2nd- Shana Jefferson, 3rd- Brendan Ferrington.

Louisiana School Board Association Art Contest Participation winners are: Loren Cater, Morgan Estis, Jessica Sanson, Taytum Johnson, Derick Mason, Beyonce Blackwell, Elizabeth Kirby, Carson Gaspard, MeganTownsend, Abby Crum, Jerica Walton, and Morgan Franklin.

The School Board the following personel as award winners for the 2009-10 school year: Candy Vines (left), Catahoula Parish Outstanding Middle School Support Employee of the Year; Kandi Pentecost, Catahoula Parish Elementary Teacher of the Year; Carolyn Fannin, Catahoula Parish Outstanding Elementary School Support Employee.

Jonesville Woman's Club to Award Scholarships

Friday, April 9, 2010 - Lana Taunton

The Jonesville Woman's Club will award two scholarships this year, a $500 first place award and a $300 second place.

Applications can be picked up at Block High School and mailed to Ruth King, 679 Fish Market Road, Jonesville, La., 71343. They can also be dropped off Mike's Cycle in care of Lana Taunton.

The deadline for this application is April 23rd.

Edwards' enjoy time home with softball camp

Friday, April 2, 2010 - David W. Ryan

Marni and her sister Stacy Edwards enjoyed some of their Easter vacation home from South Carolina and Lake Charles, respectively, with a three day softball clinic.

"It's going real well. Couldn't ask for a better group of girls," Marni said as she threw soft-toss to eight year old Lauren Cater. "We had just the right number sign up with 12 girls and they are really focused and seem to be learning a lot."

Top picture Marni Edwards throw soft-toss to Lauren Cater of Harrisonburg and above Darby Sikes of Harrisonburg is working on her bunting with Stacy Edwards.

 

Several Locals Named to La Tech's Honors List

Wednesday, March 31, 2010 - David W. Ryan

Louisiana Tech has announced the names of students on its winter quarter president's and dean's honor lists. Students whose names are followed by an asterisk earned recognition as members of the president's honor list.

That distinction signifies achievement of at least a 3.8 academic grade point average on a minimum of nine semester hours completed (100-level or higher), with no grade lower than a B. To be eligible for the dean's honor lists, a student is required to earn at least a 3.5 academic grade point average with no grade lower than a C on a minimum of nine semester hours completed (100-level or higher).

Courses yielding satisfactory/failure grades and courses audited do not count toward eligibility for either recognition. Only undergraduates with no incomplete grades are eligible to make either list.

Honor students are listed below by their hometowns.

• Catahoula

Harrisonburg: Jenna E. Pentecost.*

Jonesville: Gabriel Nelson.*

Sicily Island: William Chase Moroni.*

• Concordia

Monterey: Jessica M. Lee, William Lee Metcalf* and Devin Ryan Shively.

Morgan Woods, of Jonesville, killed this massive turkey on the morning of March 13, 2010 while hunting in Fayette, Miss. He had a 10 1/2" beard with 7/8" spurs.

The Louisiana School Boards' Association (LSBA) Art Contest winners for Catahoula Parish were announced this week and they are: Grades K-4, Tiffany Ferrington (left), a 2nd grade student at Harrisonburg ElementarySchool; Grades 5-8, Jacob Towell, a 6th grade student at Harrisonburg Elementary, and Grades 9-12, Devin Curry, an 11th grade student at Harrisonburg High. (Photos Courtesy of Superintendent Gwile Freeman.)

The Jena Band of Choctaws have elected the Pow Wow Committee Members for the 2nd Annual Pow Wow in the Pines.  Those members are:

Renee' Jackson - Chairman
Dana Chapman - Vice Chairman
Lillie McCormick - Treasurer
Katie Lucas - Gate & Admissions
Rachel Stephens - Vendors
Hope Jones - Grounds
Mike Tarpley - equipment & funding
Christine Norris - fund raising
Barbara Chapman - Program Booklet

The Pow Wow once again will be held on the tribal grounds in Trout, Louisiana.  The dates will be announced at a later date.

Five-year old Connor Aplin, the son of Jason and Robin Aplin of Harrisonburg bagged his first deer on his fifth birthday at Cocodrie.

 

My name is Hannah Tarpley and I'm from Jonesville. My mom is Teressa (Knapp) Laughlin you might know her. Well as you might know I’m in Iraq trying to win the war and the other day I wrote something about Louisiana and what I loved about it. It's called Southern Bell.

"Sweet southern grass beneath my toes.
So smooth and course melts all my woes.
Crawfish tails and jambalaya.
Sweet cornbread and pecan pies.
Watchin' gators lounge outside.
From the porch you can see 'em glide.
Who Dat nation rebel yell with 
crawfish boils and true tall tales.
Fishin' for brim or the occasional gar.
Just don't get finned.
I learned that lesson hard.
Mardi Gras or Fat Tuesday.
Where all the freaks come out and play.
New Orleans is the most historic.
With voodoo queens and black majic.
I never want to leave, I gotta have it.
I'm from Louisiana, born and raised.
Thorough-bred.
Corn fed.
And happy as a clam."

Jonesville’s Chris Shivers took the overall event lead after riding Crosswired (D&H Cattle Co./Clifton Wiggins) for 90.5 points in the short go where he finished tied for second during the Championship Round at the 2010 Professional Bull Riders Built Ford Tough Invitational on Sunday at the Sprint Center in Kansas City. Shivers finished with 761.00 points, and $9,620.40 good enough for fourth place overall.

Marion Evans is a music legend and a teacher of music legends. He is a Grammy-winning arranger and bandleader whose orchestrations have spanned the decades from Tommy Dorsey to Tony Bennett, with performances ranging from big-band to Broadway and from television to the night-club scene. The great Quincy Jones is among his protégés. 

On Tuesday, March 2, Evans’ artistry shared the stage with the Lamar University (Beaumont, Texas) Jazz Band which includes Harrisonburg’s own Sarah Jordan on trumpet. What a thrill for a musical major.

The cost to obtain a driver license in Louisiana is going up. On March 8, according to state police, it will cost $36.50, an increase of $15. A duplicate license, now $13, jumps to $28.

The $15 hike funds the National Driver Registry, which, among other things, ensures that Louisiana will not issue a driver's license to anyone that has outstanding tickets or a bad driving record in another state.

The increase was allowed by legislation passed in the early 1990s, but never implemented. Col. Mike Edmonson, who's also the deputy secretary of the state Department of Public Safety and Corrections, said the newer driver's licenses that will also be safe from terrorism, identity theft and fraud.

A basic license in Louisiana currently costs $21.50, while various other licenses such as a chauffeur's license or commercial license, costs more. All types will increase by $15.

Wednesday, February 10, 2010 Contact Us

This is George Harris of Sicily Island reading  Bringing the Rain to Kapiti Plain to the 1st and 2nd graders at Sicily Island Elementary in association with National Literacy Week and Black History Month.  George volunteers every year to read to the classes.  All the kids really enjoyed the story. (Photos courtesy of Whitney Goldstein)

 

Wednesday, February 10, 2010 Contact Us

Harrisonburg Elementary's 4-H Club (grades 3-5) racked up at the Parish 4H Cookery Contest Monday, February 9th.
Front row (left to right):
Lindsey Walton - 2nd place in the Egg Main Dish Division with her "Omelet Delicious”
Sidney Tubre - 2nd in the Pecan Candy Division with his "Pecan Log" and purple  ribbon for the Egg Dessert Division with his "Pound Cake"
Avery Smith- 1st in the Pecan Candy Division with "Nana's Divinity"

Pictured back row (left to right):
Leighton Hodges- 1st in the Chicken Division and Overall Poultry winner with his "Chicken Cheesy Spaghetti"
Charlea Edwards - 2nd place in the Egg Appetizer Division with her "Deviled Eggs"

Avery and Leighton will compete in the 4-H Regional Cookery Contest on March 18th in Alexandria.

 

Wednesday, February 10, 2010 Contact Us

Congratulations to Grace Erin Jordan, general studies; Sarah Alicia Jordan, music for being amount a total of 784 Lamar University students earned places on the Deans’ List for the 2009 fall semester, Deans of Lamar’s five academic colleges announced.

Saturday, February 6, 2010 Contact Us

Members of the Block High School football team were selected to the 2009 Coach's All-State team; Trey Vault (from left), Curduarius Johnson, and Theo Carroll.

Thursday, February 4, 2010 Contact Us

Florida Franklin (left) and Cassandra O'Steen from Block High School participated in a recent in-house site visit held for The Rapides Foundation's Board of Trustees. Florida and Cassandra are shown with Joe Rosier, president and CEO of the Rapides Foundation, after they explained some of the tobacco activities funded by the Foundation.

Wednesday, February 3, 2010 Contact Us

 

Harrisonburg High School's Devin Curry is the Catahoula Parish Art Winner for grades 9-12 in the Louisiana School Board Association's Art Contest. His artwork will go to the state contest.

The Louisiana State Analytical and Fusion Exchange (LA-SAFE) today issued a notice titled Suspicious Activity: Helicopter Leasing Facilities for aviation interests in Louisiana. Over the past week, LA-SAFE has received several suspicious activity reports regarding helicopter facilities. 01/21/2010: Suspicious flyover at Jonesville Lock & Dam in Jonesville, La. Report indicates that the operator on duty heard a noise and observed a helicopter hovering … approximately 25 to 30 feet over the lock and dam for approximately 15 to 20 minutes.

Sunday, January 31, 2010 Contact Us

Congratulations to Ariel (Cotton) and David Williams of Jonesville, on the birth of their daughter, Ashton Leigh. She was born at Rapides Regional Medical Center on January 19th and was 7 lbs. 13 ½ oz.

 

Wednesday, January 27, 2010 Contact Us

WORKING HARD FOR THE LEAP - Mrs. Susan Posey's 8th graders experimented with the ways to remove oil from duck feathers (compliments of 8th grader Connor Ainsworth). They actually had to "pluck" the feathers from the wings! They tried a toothbrush, a q-tip, paper towels, sponges, and dishwashing liquid. After completing an activity sheet, they concluded that the dishwashing liquid worked best. >>>more photos

 

Monday, January 25, 2010 Contact Us

Mrs. Shelly (top) and Mrs. Christy from the Catahoula Parish Library (Harrisonburg Branch) came to read to K-2 at Harrisonburg Elementary School. The students really enjoyed the "treat"!

Monday, January 25, 2010 Contact Us

The following students from Catahoula Parish were named to the ULM President's List for the fall semester:  Ashlen N. Boothe, Logan M. Cloessner, Rhonda Cranston (4.0),  Ashley M. Kirby, Heather L. McGuffee, Randee M. Patten and Madison J. Simpson. 

Monday, January 25, 2010 Contact Us

On  Sunday  January  31,  2010   @  2 : 00  pm  Pisgah  Baptist  Church  (Manifest  community)  will  be  hosting  a  Pastor  ordination  service  for  their  Pastor. Bro.  Emile  Bordelon,  This  will  be  a  special  service  dedicated  to  the  glory  of  GOD.  Come  be  a  part  of  this  great  move  of  GOD. For  information  of  the  church  you   can  visit  our  website  @  www.emilebordelontransport.com .  Go  to  the  church’s  web  page.

Sunday, January 24, 2010 Contact Us

Tonya O. Smith: This sweet dog came to our house a few days ago.  She looks like a Catahoula Cur.  She is a very good-natured dog.  She has a collar with no information on it.  My house is on HWY 124 right past Poole Bend Road in Wallace Ridge.  Please contact Tonya Smith at 339-7484 to claim her.

Tuesday, January 19, 2010 Contact Us

Six-year old Jackson Powell, the son of Leigh and Greg Powell of Jonesville proudly displays this deer he bagged during Youth Weekend in Mississippi.

Tuesday, January 19, 2010 Contact Us

Happy Birthday Wishes go out to Vina Jo Delhoste of Jonesville for January 20th; from all her family.

Saturday, January 16, 2010 Contact Us

Here’s something neat from our Travel Blogger Bill Passman: I saw on Entertainment Tonight that the Karst Formations in China were used as a model to make the world Avatar. I have pictures of these formations at my September 19th China Blog entitled "Evading the River Police" for those interested. >>>more

Saturday, January 16, 2010 Contact Us

Congratulations to Chris Shivers (Jonesville, La.) 87.25 points on Kick Butt (Cosca/Brown Bucking Bulls), $624 during the first round of the Scaramento Classic Bull Riding to finished tied for 4/5.

Thursday, January 14, 2010 Contact Us

While it is still an ongoing investigation, the Jonesville Police Department and Chief Bubba Roy would like you all to be on the look out for counterfiet bills. Today, the Department found five counterfiet 20s from the Sonic and Shell "Y-NOT-STOP" and made three arrests. However, they do not know to what extent the counterfiets were circulated. The bills will be slightly smaller, will not have the magnetic tape running through them nor the hologram, pluse the paper they are printed on fills like regular paper. We will have a story and more details tomorrow...

Wednesday, January 13, 2010 Contact Us

Congratulations to Two-time World Champion Chris Shivers, of Jonesville as he walked away with the Round 3 win at the New York City Invitational last weekend. He rode Walton & Wagoner Bucking Bulls’ Iron Broke for 87.5 points and won $2,730.

Sunday, January 10, 2010 Contact Us

Congratulations to Whitney Estis, Julia McClure, and Kayla Tolbert, all of Jonesville for being named to the LSU at Alexandria fall Dean’s List.

Wednesday, January 6, 2010 Contact Us

The Federal Emergency Management Agency has added Catahoula and Franklin parishes to a list of parishes classified as "major disaster areas" as a result of severe storms, tornados and flooding from October 29 to November 3, 2009.

By being declared "major disaster areas," affected parishes become qualified for federal assistance to repair public infrastructure, officials announced.

Catahoula is the third central Louisiana parish declared a "major disaster area" as a result of weather during that time period. The others are Beauregard and Natchitoches.

Tuesday, January 5, 2010 Contact Us

Congratulations to all the students at Jonesville Elementary School who made the 3rd six weeks honor roll. For a complete list click here!

Tuesday, January 5, 2010 Contact Us

United States Congressman Rodney Alexander, representing Louisiana's 5th District and of course Catahoula Parish, was in Jonesville today. It's a Tuesday so he could have been here to speak to the Lions Club or mabye a Town Hall Meeting or perhaps heading to Harrisonburg or Sicily Island to work on something special up there? Nope! Turns out Mr. Alexander is a big fan of the hamburgers at Big Johns. He was simply passing through from a meeting in Concordia Parish to another meeting in south Louisiana and of all the places in between to eat he chose Big Johns in Jonesville. They do have a fine hamburger...

Sunday, January 3, 2010 Contact Us

Professional Bull Riders, Inc. (PBR) started 2010 with a bang in Baltimore and Chris Shivers (Jonesville, La.) scoring a 87.75 points in the 1st round on Larry the Cable Guy’s Smokey, winning $1,170. Unfortunately it was his only eight second ride of the event. Next event New York City Invitational, Jan 8-10.

Sunday, January 3, 2010 Contact Us

Congratulations to Talesha (Hamilton) and Jeffery Nichols of Jonesville on the birth of their son, Justin LaDale. He was born December 16th at St. Frances Cabrini Hospital in Alexandria and weighed 8 lbs.

January 2, 2010 Contact Us

The expansion of the Northeast-Central Louisiana Chapter of Susan G. Komen For The Cure® into the Central Louisiana community will be officially announced at a celebration beginning at 5:30 p.m., Jan. 5, at the River Oaks Arts Center, 1330 Main St. in Alexandria, according to a news release from the organization. The affiliate expansion will add the parishes of Vernon, Rapides, Grant, Avoyelles, LaSalle, Catahoula and Concordia parishes.

December 29, 2009 Contact Us

Evangeline Baptist Church in Wildsville will be hosting a New Year's Eve Service on December 31 with Service at 7 PM, followed by a meal in the Family Life Center until 9 PM. A concert featuring the Craig Franklin Family from Jena will begin at 9 PM.

This is going to be a great night! Craig, Kim, and their children are a very talented group with much love for our Lord.  We are looking forward to a wonderful night of food, fellowship, and great Christian music. The public is invited to come out and join us.

December 28, 2009 Contact Us

The Christmas Recital of the students of Audrey Sanders was held last Monday, December 21st, at 6 PM at First Pentecostal Church, Jonesville. Eighteen of the 20 students taught by Mrs. Sanders participated in the recital. They played to a packed sanctuary of about 100 family members and friends. Several students sang Christmas carols and other fun Christmas songs after the recital was finished.  A reception was enjoyed by all following the performance.

Participants in the Christmas Piano Recital are (front row, from left: Jackson Powell, John Smith, Abbey Hardie, Chaney Weeks, Jacob Weeks, Sidney Winborne, Leah Keith, Leila Marceau, Makala Nichols, Kaley Wesberry, and Kitlyn Huffman. (Back row, from left): Justin Bordelon, Bethany Johnese, Breanna Youngblood, Natalie Posey, Jessica Sanson, Amy Gentry, Mrs. Sanders, and Jade O’Steen. (Courtesy of Cindy Sanders)

December 28, 2009 Contact Us

Congratulations to Johanna Boyd for earning her Associate Degree in nursing at the recent LSU at Alexandria commencement exercises.

December 27, 2009 Contact Us

Congratulations to Jennifer (Boothe) and Tray Gray of Jonesville on the birth of a son, Peyton Avery. He was born on December 19th at Christus S. Frances Cabrini Hospital and weighed 7 lbs. 3 oz.

December 27, 2009 Contact Us

Congratulations to Jalyn and Joe Johnson II of Jonesville on the birth of their daughter, Grace Willa Heaven Danielle. She was born December 14th at Rapides Regional Hospital and weighed 8 lbs. 1 ½ oz.

December 27, 2009 Contact Us

Happy Birthday! The NewsStar.com of Monroe has birthday listings and look who we found on the list for December 2th; Chasity of Sicily Island.

If you would like to submit Birthdays to Catahoula Life just send us an email to info@catahoulalife.com with the name, hometown, and age (if you want to list the age). You may include a picture…

December 26, 2009 Contact Us

According to facebook Happy Birthday is in order for Tonya Odom Smith of Jonesville! If you would like to submit Birthdays to Catahoula Life just send us an email to info@catahoulalife.com with the name, hometown, and age (if you want to list the age). You may include a picture…

December 26, 2009 Contact Us

Happy Birthday! The NewsStar.com of Monroe has birthday listings and look who we found on the list for December 26th; Ruth Cotton of Sicily Island.

If you would like to submit Birthdays to Catahoula Life just send us an email to info@catahoulalife.com with the name, hometown, and age (if you want to list the age). You may include a picture…

December 21, 2009 Contact Us

When is the last time you saw a group out caroling? Did they have their own band? Well, Sunday night the Liberty Worship Center Carolers teamed up with the Joe Cook Family and cruised through the streets of Jonesville. Their biggest stopover was at the The Columns Rehibilitation & Retirement Center where they got rave reviews. Check them out here!

December 20, 2009 Contact Us

A Christmas Candlelight Communion Service will be held at Trinity Presbyterian Church on Thursday night, December 24th, at 6 PM.  There will be scripture readings interspersed with the singing of Christmas carols during the service.  The Chancel Choir will sing the beautiful Christmas Communion Song, and Hannah Cotton will sing "Mary, Did you Know?"  The lights will be extinguished, candles will be lighted, and the service will close with the congregation singing "Silent Night."  The public is invited to attend.

December 20, 2009 Contact Us

Kenny Delhoste recently killed this 8 pt., with had a 14 5/8" spread, and field dressed 185 lbs. on the Sicily Island Hills Wildlife Management area. He was using a 30-30 at approximately 40 yards. Congratulations Kenny!

December 20, 2009 Contact Us

Jonesville Elementary School (JES) held their annual Christmas lunch with the parents on Friday, December 11th. Check out the photos here.

December 20, 2009 Contact Us

Congratulations to Mika (May) and Shane White of Jonesville on the birth of their son, Noah Dalton who was born at Rapides Regional Medical Center in Alexandria on December 10th. He weighed 8 lbs.

Congratulations to Miranda (Mandy Stump) and Bobby Goodwin Sr., on the birth of their son, Job Dean Slyvester who was born at Christus St. Frances Hospital in Alexandria on December 10th. He weighed 8 lbs., 11 oz.

December 18, 2009 Contact Us

 

Wesley (top) and Hunter McEntyre (of Jonesville) went offshore fishing with their Uncle Jason Hardie in Lake Charles and caught their first Redfish along with several trout and a shark.

December 18, 2009 Contact Us

 

HES Pep-Squad at the last Junior High Basketball Game.  Bottom Row- Katherine Ceasor; 2nd Row-Jacelyn Ballance, Harleigh Dawson, Samantha Ewing, Dakota Breland, Megan Nugent; 3rd Row-Morgan Estis, Tiffany Ferrington, Loren Cater, Bailey Fuqua; 4th Row- Nicole Phillips, Madison Taliaferro, Emily Huff. (Brittany Nobles and Hannah Coleman not pictured.)

December 17, 2009 Contact Us

 

Found - Young female rat terrier on highway between Morgan's Pharmacy and Big John's.  She had on a pink collar and a t-shirt that said "Easy Rider".  Please call 339-9587 or 403-0090 to identify and claim.  If no one claims and someone is interested in a really sweet dog please call!

December 14, 2009 Contact Us

Congratulations to Jennifer Mullican of Rhinehart on the birth of a daughter, Faith Christian Lorene, born December 3rd at Rapides Regional Medical Center in Alexandria, La. She weighed 5  lbs. 3 ozs.

Congratulations to Samantha (Edwards) and Prentiss Jordan of Rhinehart on the birth of a son, Chazz Kanean, born November 27th at Rapides Regional Medical Center in Alexandria, La. He weighed 7 lbs. 3 ozs.

Congratulations to Jessica (McCartney) and Donald Whittington of Monterey on the birth of a daughter, Jessa Elise, born November 25th at Rapides Regional Medical Center in Alexandria, La. She weighed 6 lbs. 12 ozs.

December 4, 2009 Contact Us

The church family of Grace Baptist Church will be celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ
through a candlelight service on December 13, at 6:00 p.m.  Pianist Brad Bates will be the
special instrumentalist for the evening.  We invite the community to join us for this joyful occasion.  A reception will follow the service.