All flags in the town of Jonesboro will be lowered to half-mast in honor of District A  Board of Aldermen representative James Ginn, who unexpectantly passed away on Friday, June 6th at the age of 66 years old.

The son of Francis Claude and Johnnie Evelyn (Pullen) Ginn served District A and the Town of Jonesboro for the last 6 years, being recognized as a strong advocate for the development and enhancement of the community. 

In honor of his legacy, Jonesboro Mayor James “Spike” Harris declared an official Period of Mourning that began on June 9th and will continue for 30 days, with the flag at Jonesboro City Hall being lowered for the duration.

“Councilman Ginn was a steadfast supporter and passionate advocate for the development and enhancement of Jonesboro, Louisiana,” said Harris. “His unwavering commitment and dedication to our beloved city will forever be etched in our collective memory.”

James also served the Jaycees Organization as a National Vice President 1994-1995 and LA State President 1992-1993 and was a founding member and President of the LA TAG (Tech Advancement Group), where he started Tech and Tails and had a scholarship named in his honor in 2019. He loved his Bulldogs, tailgating with great friends in TAG, and serving current and past Bulldogs. He was also the owner of GSG Sports, which specialized in recreational and athletic supplies and sportswear. 

Strong in his faith, James served on multiple Ministry Teams at First Baptist Church in Jonesboro, as well as being active in the Thursday Men’s Bible Study, always wanting to learn and grow.

James is preceded in death by his parents, Francis Claude and Johnnie Evelyn (Pullen) Ginn; one brother, John Keith Ginn; sister-in-law, Debbie Ginn; and his paternal and maternal grandparents.

He is survived by his wife of 31 years, Tracy Ginn; his brother, Jerry Ginn (Teresa); sister-in-law, Stacy Caver (John); nephews, Greg Ginn and John William Caver Jr.; nieces, Gayla Saulters (Mike), Gretchen Dell (Joe), and Jillian Munday (Bryan); and many great nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Funeral Services will be held at First Baptist Church in Jonesboro at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, June 11th, with Reverends Brian McAllister and Trey Etheridge officiating. Burial will follow in Jonesboro Cemetery under the direction of Southern-Edmonds Funeral Home.

Pallbearers will include: John Caver, John William Caver Jr., Brandon Ginn, Donny Freeman, AJ Trevenson, Greg Hennigan, Jason Thomasee, and Mike Brown.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to First Baptist Church Missions or LA Tech Athletics.

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(Jonesboro, LA) — Louisiana Delta Community College (LDCC) is proud to announce that its Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program is expanding to the Jonesboro campus this summer. This high-demand workforce course will equip students with the essential skills and clinical experience needed to launch a healthcare career.

The CNA course will run from July 14 to August 8, 2025, with a mandatory orientation session scheduled for June 25 at 8:00 a.m. Classes will be held Monday through Thursday from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., and on Fridays from 8:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

The program’s cost is $1,998.00, which includes scrubs and shoes, eliminating the need for additional out-of-pocket expenses for required gear. Financial assistance is available through the MJ Foster Promise, helping eligible students afford their education and enter the workforce with confidence.

“Our Jonesboro location is thrilled to offer this opportunity to local students interested in healthcare,” said Jonesboro Campus Director Patience Talley. “This program not only opens the door to a stable and rewarding career, but it also helps meet a growing need for qualified CNAs across the region.”

The CNA program prepares students for work in long-term care facilities, hospitals, and home health settings. Graduates of the program will be eligible to take the Louisiana CNA certification exam and begin working in the field immediately.

Local healthcare providers are also enthusiastic about the program’s expansion. “Programs like this are critical to sustaining quality care in our region,” said Wyatt Manor Administrator Link Martin. “We depend on well-trained CNAs, and having the course right here in Jonesboro will help us fill crucial roles with local talent who are ready to serve.”

Interested individuals are encouraged to contact the Jonesboro campus at 318-480-5010 or click here for more information.

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Want to get a “sneak peek” at the Jonesboro-Hodge High School boys and girls basketball teams that will be taking the floor during the 2025-26 LHSAA basketball season? Then the JHHS boys’ gymnasium is the place you want to be every Thursday evening during June, as both squads will be in action weekly, taking part in the JHHS Summer League. 

Not only will you have the opportunity to see the locals play, but also Union Parish, Lincoln-Prep, D’Arbonne Woods, Rayville, and Winnfield High Schools in the girls division, and the same six, along with Homer, Ringgold, and New Living Word on the boys side.

“We are excited about getting the opportunity for our girls and guys to practice and play this summer which not only will help our teams in the upcoming season but also gives the kids something to do and keeps them focused on things that are good for them and provide positive reinforcement,” said JHHS head boys basketball coach Fred Hearne.

In games played last Thursday, the JHHS boys beat D’Arbonne Woods by a 36-24 score with D.J. Palmer, King Campbell, and Lon’Trevious Burns providing most of the firepower, while the Lady Tigers fell short to Choudrant. 

“We had a really good turnout for our first week of games, and I hope that we continue to see more come out as the league continues,” said Hearne. “It means a lot to the kids to see that they are being supported by people coming to see them play.”

Eight games are on tap for this Thursday, June 12th, with the Jonesboro-Hodge boys playing two games, the first being at 5:00 pm against New Living Word (Ruston) and the second being the final matchup of the night that will pit Rayville against JHHS at 7:00 pm. The Lady Tigers, coached by Shan Jackson, will also play Rayville at 6:00 pm.

Schedule of Games (June 12)

12:00 pm  – D’Arbonne Woods vs Winnfield (Girls)
1:00 pm – D’Arbonne Woods vs Winnfield (Boys)
2:00 pm – Union Parish vs Lincoln Prep (Girls)
3:00 pm – Union Parish vs Lincoln Prep (Boys)
4:00 pm – New Living Word vs Rayville (Boys)
5:00 pm – New Living Word vs JHHS (Boys)
6:00 pm – Rayville vs JHHS (Girls)
7:00 pm – Rayville vs JHHS (Boys)

A summer pass that provides admission to all games played each Thursday is available for $20.00, and individual tickets can be purchased for $6.00 apiece. To purchase either the summer pass or tickets, scan the barcode shown below. 

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Louisiana residents were among approximately 2,200 individuals who met graduate and undergraduate degree requirements and were eligible to participate in the University of Central Missouri’s (UCM) 2025 Spring Commencement exercises on May 9-10, including Quitman, LA resident Shelby Cumpton.

Cumpton, who is a Forensics Graduate Teaching Assistant at UCM, was one of four Louisiana residents who were honored for completing the Master’s Degree curriculum, having earned her Master’s of Arts Degree in Communication.

The Quitman High School graduate gained her undergraduate degree from Louisiana Christian University in Pineville, LA, where she was an honors graduate and award-winning debate scholar. 

 

 

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The annual St. Jude “Fishing For A Cure” bass tournament will be held from daylight to 3:00 pm Saturday, June 14th, on Caney Lake with registration and take-off at Hook’s Marina. Take off will be in order of registration,n and all proceeds go straight to St. Jude! 

Entry fee is $170.00 per boat, which registers anglers for the Big Bass prize and the guaranteed payouts of $5,000.00 to the winner, $2,500.00 for the runner-up, and $1,000.00 for third place. Anglers must be in the weigh-in line by 3:00 pm to be eligible for a prize. 

For more information, call Logan Dubois at (318) 664-8355.

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Forest Haven Nursing Home and Rehabilitation Center in Jonesboro is recognized as one of the top retirement and assisted living facilities in the nation, having won multiple awards over the past several years. 

One of the reasons for their acclaim is the incredible administration and staff that ensure that residents have not only the best in long-term care but also an abundance of activities to enjoy. 

The month of June is no exception, as evidenced by the full calendar of activities shown below. 

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Jackson Parish Hospital congratulates Outpatient Registration Clerk, Garcia Boston, as the ‘WOW’ Award recipient for the month of June. Garica was recognized for her dependability, positive attitude, and the vital role she plays in keeping the outpatient department running smoothly.

Garica registers every patient with care and professionalism, helping to keep everyone on schedule and creating a welcoming experience from the moment they arrive. Through her dedication, Garcia helps advance our mission of providing the very best care to the communities we serve.

“Thank you, Garcia, for everything you do. We’re so grateful to have you on our team,” – Jackson Parish Hospital administration

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On May 30th, Jackson Parish 4-H celebrated the success of the Jackson Parish Shooting Sports Team at a banquet hosted by Gracepoint Academy in Jonesboro. Every participant was recognized, as well as every instructor, including the State Level competitors and both National Qualifiers!

“We in Jackson Parish are so appreciative of every single person who has any part in our program. Shooting Sports members are one big family. Thank you to every family that was represented. Special thanks go to Senior Shooters, Garrett, Eliza, and Jake, for starting the program off and being dedicated members of the Shooting Sports teams over the years.” – Jackson Parish 4-H Director, Kristina Bourgeois

Jackson Parish 4-H – Making the Best Better! 

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Brad Dison, a lifelong resident of Bienville Parish and writer whose history column “Remember This?” runs weekly in the Journal, has released a new book about Sheriff Henderson Jordan’s pursuit and capture of notorious gangsters Bonnie and Clyde.

“The Trap: The Untold Story of Sheriff Henderson Jordan and the Final Pursuit of Bonnie and Clyde” is now available for purchase at www.HendersonJordan.com.

“There has been more fiction than fact written about their crime spree,” Dison said. “For 91 years, people have assumed that former Texas Ranger Frank Hamer used his superior tracking skills to locate Bonnie and Clyde. This is another bit of fiction. It was Bienville Parish Sheriff Henderson Jordan who located two of their hideouts in Bienville Parish. It was he who set three traps to capture the gang. It was he who used an ‘undercover man’ and a ‘man on the inside’ to determine where they would be on that fateful morning of May 23, 1934. It was he who led the ambush posse and ended their violent crime spree.”

 

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Bayou Sports proudly hosted its First Annual Warm-Up Tournament this past weekend, June 7–8, at the Jackson Parish Recreation Department, drawing an impressive turnout of 16 teams for a full weekend of baseball and softball.

The event, orchestrated by tournament director Brody Garrett, brought together youth teams from across the region, providing players a valuable opportunity to compete and prepare for their summer All-Star and travel ball seasons. With teams taking the field on both Saturday and Sunday, the tournament offered two full days of exciting, competitive play in a positive and family-friendly environment.

Among the teams participating were the following Jackson Parish All-Star squads, proudly representing the local community.

JP 10U Baseball – Coaches: Dusty Nomey, Lance Seymore, Railey Garrett
JP 9U Baseball – Coaches: Josh Jones, Trevor Hall, Lee Johnson
JP 7/8U Baseball – Coaches: Josh Henderson, Dusty Burton 
JP All-Stars American – Coaches: Matt Otwell, Jamie Otwell, Megan Taylor, Jacob Otwell
JP 9U & 10U Softball – Coaches: Kyle Allen, James Conn, Dustin Siddon

Bayou Sports would like to extend a special thank-you to all the volunteers who helped make the tournament a success. From gate workers and scorekeepers to hospitality and support, this event would not have been possible without their tireless efforts:

Volunteers and Supporters:
Sherry Ables, Nicole Garrett, Railey Garrett, Lance Seymore, Hayden Seymore, Katie Curtis, Lesley Vail, Stephanie Wall, Brea Nomey, Dusty Nomey, Melinda Garrett, and our entire crew of official umpires.

2025 Warm Up Tournament Champions

7/8U Softball – Caldwell
9/10U Softball – Half & Half
11/12U Baseball – Winnsboro
9/10U Baseball – JP 10U
7/8U Baseball – West Ouachita

Bayou Sports would also like to give a special thank-you to Jackson Parish Recreation Department (JPRD) Director Justin Dotson for allowing use of the JPRD facilities. His support helped make this tournament a reality and a success.

“This tournament wasn’t just a warm-up for baseball and softball,” said Tournament Director Brody Garrett. “It was a win for the JPRD, the athletes, and the communities who came out to support youth sports.”

Bayou Sports is proud to have kicked off what it hopes will become an annual tradition, growing the love of the game in Jackson Parish and surrounding areas.

For more upcoming events and tournament info, contact Bayou Sports at (318) 480-9547.

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The Jackson Parish Library is entering the second week of the 2025 Summer Reading Program, which features the continued opportunity to earn prizes and special activities scheduled for this Wednesday – Friday.

Highlighting the next several days are appearances by Jackson Parish Scout Pack 523, who will offer assistance on the building of a wooden race car on Wednesday, Steam Craft Time on Thursday, and culminating with the always popular Dino Experience on Friday. 

See below for dates/times of events at both the Jonesboro and Chatham branches. 

Jonesboro Branch

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Chatham Branch

Anyone who is associated with high school organizations and athletic programs knows that the cost associated with a school providing an opportunity for student/athletes has skyrocketed over the past several years. The result is that school organizations and athletic programs are now almost required to raise money for their programs through fundraisers to help offset costs.

Show your support for your favorite school, organization, or athlete by participating. 

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To donate click here or go to the Weston High School Baseball Facebook Page

Caira Gray of Jonesboro-Hodge Fundraiser 

In an effort to help Ciara Gray raise money to sponsor 2 trips to compete in national track and field meets this summer raffle tickets are being sold for $5.00 per ticket with a chance to win $200 in cash. Please consider purchasing a ticket to help sponsor her trips. Your support will be greatly appreciated!

Raffle tickets can be purchased through Cashapp, or Venmo!
Cashapp –  $LatonyaAustinMoss
Venmo  – @Latonya-Austin-Moss

You can also purchase tickets by seeing Latonya Moss at State Farm Insurance Agency, located at 826 Pershing Hwy. in Jonesboro.

Quitman High School FBLA Raffle

Quitman High School Cheer Team Bake Sale

Weston High School Publications

Support your favorite Weston High School athlete… One athlete will win Action Shot photos for the 25-26 school year. Drinks will be available for pickup at the WHS Gym.
To place your orders, click here or go to the Weston High School Facebook page.

Hailey Chatham / Ben Ramsey Fundraiser

Jackson Parish Tigers Youth Football Team Fundraiser

Please support Jackson Parish’s youth football team from Jonesboro with a small donation of $5.00 to help offset costs and help Coach Van Osborne continue to provide local youth with the opportunity to do something positive. All donations would be appreciated and can be made at CashApp – $jptigers25

JHHS Lady Tigers State Championship Rings Fundraiser

For the first time in school history, the Jonesboro-Hodge Lady Tigers Track team is the LHSAA Class 1A state champions. These student athletes worked hard to earn this prestigious title, and we are proud of them. We are asking that each graduating class of JHHS send a $25.00 donation to assist with the purchase of state championship rings as well as individual replica trophies. The following link or QR code may be used to send donations. 
https://square.link/u/9aW54fCG

For questions or more information, send an email to tblankenship@jpsbschools.us. Thank you for your consideration

I want to publicly thank the Jackson Parish Hospital for the care I recently received while in their facility. I was in their hospital for a week & could not have asked for any better care than I received!

They were top notch, from the housekeeping, nurses & all the way up to my Doctor! I had the most amazing staff! The most surprising to me was the food! We all know hospital food has the same bad reputation, but let me tell you, not there!

They have Chefs who prepare the food there! Yes, I said Chefs!

I am an amazing cook myself, so I do know bad food from good food, good cooks from bad cooks! Believe me, when I tell you the meals there were absolutely DELICIOUS! I literally thought I was eating from restaurants! It was nowhere near the typical “bad” hospital food! Their food was AMAZING!

If I had to rate my stay there on a scale from 1-5, with 5 being the best, I would have to rate them a 10! Each & every one of them treated me special & like a queen! You ALL are the best!!! THANK YOU TO THE COMPLETE STAFF AT JACKSON PARISH HOSPITAL!!!!!

Kathy Hays

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On the afternoon of June 4, 1987, 22-year-old Marquisa Kellogg was working at the Grand Slam Restaurant, a once-popular eatery in the Madisonville neighborhood of Cincinnati, Ohio. She had served cheese coneys to two men in their early 20s whom she considered friends. She said she knew them “from the neighborhood.” Marquisa and the two customers exchanged pleasantries. There was no reason for Marquisa to suspect that this day would be any different than any other workday at the restaurant, but according to newspaper accounts from 1987, it all went wrong when the two men walked up to the cash register. The men had a brazen plan to rob Marquisa’s cash register. When they approached Marquisa, one of the men pulled a weapon. Marquisa took one look at the robber’s weapon and fled from her post at the open cash register. When she regained her composure and returned to the cash register, she found that it was short by $25 and called the police.

Police arrived at the restaurant, spoke with Marquisa, and began interviewing other customers. Police struggled to find witnesses to the crime. Upon hearing Marquisa scream, customers turned toward the cash register and saw her run away, but no one actually saw either of the men take money from the cash register. Was this part of the plan? Did the robbers intentionally steer the other customers’ attention onto the fleeing cashier and away from the cash register to enable them to quickly snatch some money? Was this their grand slam?

Marquisa later said the police failed to take the robbery seriously. You see, rather than using a weapon that most people would normally expect a robber to use, such as a gun or knife, this robber used a much smaller weapon which was only about an inch-and-a-half long. The weapon that the robber used to frighten Marquisa away from her cash register long enough to take money from it was a harmless six-legged winged insect called a Cicada.

In an interview in 2021, Marquisa said the robbery at the Grand Slam Restaurant which received national news coverage had been blown out of proportion. She said it had all been a prank gone wrong, but her register was still short $25. Police made no arrests in this case.

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The biggest, most star-studded and fun-filled party of every summer for miles around is coming your way at the end of the month.

Three days of festivities are approaching beginning Thursday June 26 through Saturday June 28 for the 2025 Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Induction Celebration in Natchitoches.

The LSHOF’s Class of 2025 will be enshrined Saturday night June 28 at the Natchitoches Events Center to culminate the 66th Induction Celebration. The final event is already full with a waiting list and standing room only tickets available.

The Induction Celebration will kick off Thursday, June 26, with the Welcome Reception from 5-7 p.m., free to the public at the Hall of Fame museum at 800 Front Street.

The Friday, June 27 schedule begins with the Celebrity Bowling Bash presented by BOM at Four Seasons Bowling Center in Alexandria. The 2025 Rockin’ River Fest, a free concert on the downtown riverbank stage, begins at 6 p.m. and runs until 10:30. In conjunction with the Rockin’ River Fest is the VIP Taste of Tailgating party, a ticketed indoor-outdoor event that is approaching capacity.

The slate on Saturday, June 28 kicks off with the free LSHOF Junior Training Camp led by community relations personnel from the New Orleans Saints and Pelicans, along with Northwestern State coaches and this year’s Hall of Fame inductees, on the NSU campus at the Webb Wellness and Recreation Center and Turpin Stadium. This event is presented by Natchitoches Regional Medical Center and is nearing capacity. Free registration for kids ages 7-16 is required and can be easily accomplished at LaSportsHall.com.

At noon Saturday, the Round Table Luncheon presented by the Tiger Athletic Foundation is set for Riverside Reserve on Mill Street. Fox Sports broadcaster Tim Brando emcees an entertaining program.

Festivities culminate Saturday evening with the Induction Reception at the LSHOF museum beginning at 5, followed at 7 by the Induction Ceremony at the Natchitoches Events Center. Northwestern State University and State Farm Agents of Louisiana are presenting sponsors Saturday evening.

The VIP Taste of Tailgating, the Bowling Bash, the Round Table Luncheon and the Induction Reception and Ceremony are ticketed events requiring purchase in advance through LaSportsHall.com or by calling 318-238-4255.

The Thursday reception, the Friday evening River Fest and the Junior Training Camp are free.

The Class of 2025 is headlined by two men pivotal in LSU’s 2003 football national championship – coach Nick Saban and Andrew Whitworth, a champion at West Monroe High School, LSU and in the NFL during a 16-year pro career. More sparkle is provided by pro basketball All-Stars Danny Granger and Vickie Johnson, the state’s winningest all-time college baseball coach Joe Scheuermann and Danny Broussard, one of the nation’s most successful high school basketball coaches, in this year’s induction class.

It also includes LSU gymnastics great and NCAA individual champion April Burkholder, transformational Catholic-Baton Rouge high school football coach Dale Weiner and George “Bobby” Soileau, a four-time high school and 1956 NCAA boxing champion at LSU who also won a state crown as a football coach at his alma mater, Sacred Heart High School in Ville Platte.

LSU graduate Herb Vincent, now a longstanding associate commissioner of the Southeastern Conference, is receiving the Hall’s Dave Dixon Louisiana Sports Leadership Award with his enshrinement.

Also being honored: Ed Daniels, a generational television sports broadcaster in New Orleans, and Glenn Guilbeau, one of the nation’s more decorated sportswriters in a career that has seen him cover LSU, state college, high school and pro sports along with stories across the South and around the SEC. They are being inducted as recipients of the Louisiana Sports Writers Association’s Distinguished Service Award in Sports Journalism.

The 2025 Induction Celebration will be hosted by the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Foundation, the support organization for the Hall of Fame. The LSHOF Foundation was established as a 501 c 3 non-profit entity in 1975 and is governed by a statewide board of directors.

For information on sponsorship opportunities and other participation, contact Foundation President/CEO Ronnie Rantz at 225-802-6040 or RonnieRantz@LaSportsHall.com, or Greg Burke, Director of Business Development and Public Relations, at 318-663-5459 or GregBurke@LaSportsHall.com via email.

 

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Truth and Trust

Truth and trust to live by …

“Let not mercy and truth forsake thee: bind them about thy neck; write them upon the table of thine heart:

So shalt thou find favour and good understanding in the sight of God and man.

Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.

In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.

Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the Lord, and depart from evil.

It shall be health to thy navel, and marrow to thy bones (Proverbs 3:3-8 KJV).”

A woman had heard the truth about Jesus; she trusted Him for her healing.

“And Jesus went with him; and much people followed him, and thronged him.

And a certain woman, which had an issue of blood twelve years,

And had suffered many things of many physicians, and had spent all that she had, and was nothing bettered, but rather grew worse,

When she had heard of Jesus, came in the press behind, and touched his garment.

For she said, If I may touch but his clothes, I shall be whole.

And straightway the fountain of her blood was dried up; and she felt in her body that she was healed of that plague (Mark 5:24-29 KJV).”

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

CAREER OPPORTUNITY

Benoit Ford – Need two outgoing people to train for professional sales representatives! Guaranteed income with unlimited potential commission! We offer a full benefit package including insurance and 401k. Apply in person Monday – Friday from 9:00 am – 5:00 pm at the dealership located at 601 Hudson Avenue in Jonesboro or call Anthony Gray @ 225-200-8289.

CAREER OPPORTUNITY 

CAREER OPPORTUNITY

Jonesboro-Hodge Middle School is hiring custodians for the 2025-26 school year. To apply, go to the Jackson Parish School District Central Office, located at 315 Pershing Hwy. in Jonesboro. 

PUBLIC NOTICE

Notice of Annual Meeting 

An annual membership meeting will be held at 5:30 pm on Monday, June 23, 2025, at the Jackson Council on Aging Robert Riddle Senior Center, located at 120 Polk Avenue in Jonesboro, LA. There will be a regular board meeting immediately following the membership meeting. 

PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE TO BIDDERS
SP# 1151

Sealed bids will be received by the Procurement Section of the Division of Administration, 1201 N. 3rd. St., 2nd. Floor, Suite 2-160, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, at 10:00 A.M. for the following:

RFx No. 3000024830, *Rebid* Electrical Equipment for CRT, 6/17/25

Bid proposal forms, information, and specifications may be obtained by accessing the bid number in LaPac at www.doa.Louisiana.gov/osp or from the procurement section listed above. No bids will be received after the date and hour specified. The right is reserved to reject any and all bids and to waive any informalities.

Tom Ketterer
Director of State Procurement
FAX (225) 342-8688

James Ginn
December 29, 1958 – June 6, 2025

James Ginn, age 66, went to be with his LORD and Savior on June 6, 2025. James was born in Hodge, LA, on December 29th, 1958, to Francis Claude and Johnnie Evelyn (Pullen) Ginn.

James was an elected Alderman for District A, serving that District and the Town of Jonesboro for the last 6 years. He was a strong advocate for the development and enhancement of the town. He is also the owner of GSG Sports.

James also served in the Jaycees as a National Vice President, 1994-1995, and LA State President, 1992-1993. As one former Jaycee stated, “James was a true leader, walking the walk, leaving others to want to be better, do better, and love more.”

James took his leadership into LA TAG (Tech Advancement Group) being a founding member and President. Starting Tech and Tails and being a scholarship Honoree, having a scholarship named in his honor in 2019. He loved his Bulldogs, tailgating with great friends in TAG, and serving current and past Bulldogs.

He also served on multiple Ministry Teams at First Baptist Church in Jonesboro as he continued to grow in his faith. One of his favorite ministries was the Thursday Men’s Bible Study, always wanting to learn and grow.

James is preceded in death by his parents, Francis Claude and Johnnie Evelyn (Pullen) Ginn; one brother, John Keith Ginn; sister-in-law, Debbie Ginn; and his paternal and maternal grandparents.

He is survived by his wife of 31 years, Tracy Ginn; his brother, Jerry Ginn (Teresa); sister-in-law, Stacy Caver (John); nephews, Greg Ginn and John William Caver Jr.; nieces, Gayla Saulters (Mike), Gretchen Dell (Joe), and Jillian Munday (Bryan); and many great nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Funeral services will be held at First Baptist Church in Jonesboro at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, June 11th, with Reverends Brian McAllister and Trey Etheridge officiating. Burial will follow in Jonesboro Cemetery under the direction of Southern-Edmonds Funeral Home.

Pallbearers will include: John Caver, John William Caver Jr., Brandon Ginn, Donny Freeman, AJ Trevenson, Greg Hennigan, Jason Thomasee, and Mike Brown.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to First Baptist Church Missions or LA Tech Athletics.

Ellen (Lewis) Chelette
March 28, 1917 – June 5, 2025

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Ellen “Ellie” (Lewis) Chelette, age 108, of Jonesboro, La was called to her Heavenly home on Thursday, June 5, 2025. She was born March 28, 1917, in Eden, LA, to the union of William and Lillie (Jackson) Lewis. Ellie was the first of nine children and helped her parents raise and nurture her siblings. Ellie loved her Lord and Savior and her family dearly. She attended North Hodge Assembly of God as long as she was able. She told her family to always pray. “Pray, don’t worry, pray…that will get your head right.” She loved to cook and bake for her family. Ellie did not drive; she chose to walk where she needed to go. She liked to walk to Traina’s Bakery with her grandchildren and take them to get an ice-cold bottle of Coke. These are just some of the precious memories that she has left her family to treasure.

Those left to cherish her memory are her children, Bowman Chelette, Linda (Chelette) Driggers; 9 grandchildren, Tim Driggers, Barry Brymer, Casey Antie, Debbra Worley, David Chelette, Mitzi Chelette, Tony Chelette, Rhonda Ponder, Gina Smith; 10 great grandchildren; 3 great-great grandchildren; and a host of other relatives and friends.

Ellie was preceded in death by her husband, Jesse Chelette; daughters, Verda Rhoda (Chelette) Antie Foster, Betty Ann Chelette; stepsons, Randolphe Chelette, Charles Chelette; stepdaughter, Imogene (Chelette) Brymer; father, William Lewis; mother, Lillie (Jackson) Lewis; siblings, Ernest Lewis, Roy Lewis, Raymond Lewis, Gladys Lewis, Elmer Lewis, William Lewis, Jr., Jesse Lewis, Hazel (Lewis) Berryman.

A graveside service was held on Tuesday, June 10th, in McDonald Baptist Church Cemetery with Bro. Bubba Walsworth officiating. Burial followed under the direction of Southern-Edmonds Funeral Home.

Serving the family as pallbearers were Tim Smith, Barry Brymer, Casey Antie, Jimmy Jordan, Jeff Brooks, and Brennan Aramda.

Newton Campbell
April 29, 1940 – June 6, 2025

Mr. Homer Newton Campbell passed away in Monroe, Louisiana, on June 6, 2025. He was 85 years old. It could be said that Newton was a real cowboy. He was a former rodeo clown and loved horses and riding. He dressed in western attire and enjoyed watching old westerns on television, especially Gunsmoke and Bonanza. He loved his farm which included horses and goats. Newton was also a dog-lover and enjoyed dirt track racing. He cherished the time he spent with his grandchildren.

Newton is survived by his children, Cathy Simmons (Brian), Ricky Naron, Cindy Owens (Guy), Candy Robinson, Terry Campbell (April); 14 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; 2 great-great grandchildren; sister, Nancy Shelton (Andy); sister-in-law, Linda Campbell; brother-in-law, Bill Phillips; several nieces and nephews; and special friend, Jane McKay.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Wanda (Mosley) Campbell; grandson, Tyler Hemperley; father, William Homer Campbell; mother, Nettie Marie (Dison) Campbell; sister, Dianne Phillips; and brother, Houston Campbell.

Friends may visit with the family on Thursday, June 12, 2025, at the Southern-Edmonds Funeral Home Chapel in Jonesboro, from 2:00 PM until 3:00 PM. The funeral service will begin at 3:00 PM, and interment will follow in Chatham Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Ricky Naron, Terry Campbell, Justin Owens, Guy Owens, Brian Simmons, Lawrence Franklin, and Jacob Russell. Honorary Pallbearer will be Danny Davis.

The family expresses a special “Thank You” to Newton’s hospice nurse, Sydney, and to Saint Joseph Continuing Care Center in Monroe, Louisiana. Memorial donations can be sent to Ouachita Parish Animal Shelter in West Monroe, Louisiana.

Sarah Brunson Mathews
September 20, 1935 ~ June 7, 2025

Sarah Brunson Mathews was born on September 20, 1935, in Winnsboro, LA to Frank Wray and Lela Prewitt Brunson. She passed away peacefully on June 7, 2025, surrounded by family, at Jackson Parish Hospital in Jonesboro, Louisiana.

Sarah was raised in Archibald, LA. She was a 1953 graduate of Mangham High School and attended Northeast Louisiana University and Louisiana Tech University. She married Armed Mathews in 1955, and they started their family in Mangham where Armed coached football. As a coach’s wife, Sarah regularly spent time washing and mending uniforms and cooking for the Mangham Dragons. After moving their family to Jonesboro, Sarah worked for many years as the receptionist and then bookkeeper at Jonesboro-Hodge High School and later as secretary of the special education department at Jackson Parish School Board. Armed and Sarah also owned and operated The Sports Page in Jonesboro for many years.

Sarah was an avid reader, a professional at solving crossword puzzles, and a fan of old westerns. She and Armed watched every episode of Gunsmoke many times. Sarah was an excellent cook and loved cooking big meals for her “bunch” as she called her family. She was extremely proud of her kids, grandkids, great grandkids, and great-great grandkids and was fiercely protective of all of them.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 55 years, Armed Mathews; her daughter, Ellen Mathews Layfield; and her parents.

She is survived by two sons, Armed Murrell “Rel” Mathews, Jr. and wife Salena; Francis Neuton “Frank” Mathews and wife Brenda; one daughter, Karen Mathews Myers and husband Joey; and one son-in-law, Randy Layfield.

She is also survived by nine grandchildren: Damon Wray Mathews and wife Kerrie; Cherie’ Mathews Odom and husband James; Virginia Mathews Wigley and husband Shane; Catherine Layfield Semmes and husband Bobby; Matthew Layfield and wife Mindy; Frank Wray Mathews and wife Lindsay; Jessie Mathews Parker and husband John; Brian Myers and wife Melanie; and Daniel Myers and wife Alyssa; and a host of great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren.

There will be a private graveside service at 10:00 am on Wednesday, June 11th, with burial following at Lynn Cemetery in Archibald, Louisiana, under the direction of Brown Holley Funeral Home.

 

On Friday, June 7th, residents of the Town of Jonesboro and Jackson Parish were shocked upon learning that James Ginn, who had served as Councilman for District A for the past seven years, had passed away.

In honor of his legacy, Jonesboro Mayor James “Spike” Harris has declared an official Period of Mourning that will commence on June 9th and continue for a duration of 30 days.

“Councilman Ginn was a steadfast supporter and passionate advocate for the development and enhancement of Jonesboro, Louisiana,” said Harris. “His unwavering commitment and dedication to our beloved city will forever be etched in our collective memory.”

No further information is available at this time. 

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Residents of the Town of Jonesboro are asked to be alert for street repair crews and equipment during the next several weeks as the Summer Street Repair Project, which lists 50 streets in Jonesboro to be repaired, is now underway.

“It is no secret that there are many streets that need work done on them, and we are very happy and excited to be able to get started on getting these taken care of,” said Jonesboro Mayor James “Spike” Harris. 

Mayor Harris was also quick to offer praise to Representative Jack McFarland and the Jackson Parish Police Jury for their assistance, which without would have made this project impossible. 

“This project is being funded by the $100,000.00 that Representative McFarland got appropriated for us, which allowed us to purchase over 900 tons of hot mix,” continued Harris. “We were able to use the money on materials because the Jackson Parish Police Jury stepped up to allow us to use their equipment and help with manpower. We greatly appreciate both for their assistance in helping with the betterment of the streets for our residents.”

Names of Streets Identified for Repair 

(List does not reflect the order that streets will be repaired)

1. 10th
2. 3rd
3. 5th
4. 6th
5. 7th
6. 8th
7. Adams St
8. Avenue B
9. Baker
10. Bradford St
11. Bruce St
12. Center
13. Clarence St
14. Connor
15. Cook
16. Cox
17. Crow
18. Dark
19. Dewey
20. Dogwood
21. Gilbert
22. Gimber St
23. Hamilton
24. Hawk
25. Hickory
26. Hill Top to 167
27. Holly
28. Jefferson
29. Lawrence
30. Maple St
31. McDonald
32. Michigan
33. Morroco
34. N.Cooper
35. Nell St
36. Northeast St
37. Pearrie
38. Polk St
39. Red Fox Lane
40. Rodeo
41. St. Charles
42. Stuckey
43. Susan
44. Talbot
45. Talton St
46. Terrance Hill
47. Toni
48. Tyler
49. Walker Dr
50. Walton

 

 

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The Jackson Parish Police Jury hold their regularly scheduled monthly meeting on Monday, June 9th. The session will take place at 5:30 pm in the Nathaniel Zeno, Jr. Meeting Room of the Jackson Parish Administrative Building, located at 160 Industrial Drive in Jonesboro.

See below for the stated agenda.

AGENDA:

Call to Order
Invocation & Pledge of Allegiance
Public Comments
Approve Minutes
1. Adopt the minutes of the May 12, 2025, Regular Police Jury Meeting, monthly purchase orders, and payment of all bills.
Approve Committee Reports:
Policy and Personnel Committee
2. Adopt the minutes of the May 20, 2025, Policy and Personnel Committee meeting
3. Consider and approve revising the organizational chart
Finance Committee
4. Adopt the minutes of the May 28, 2025, Finance Committee Meeting
5. Adopt the minutes of the June 4, 2025, Finance Committee Meeting
6. Consider and approve pay increase for Road Supervisor, Solid Waste Supervisor, and Mr. Wayne Anderson based on approval of the revised organizational chart
Management Reports
7. Operations Manager Report – Mr. Brad Roller
8. Road Superintendent Report – Mr. Wayne Anderson
a. Accept the Emergency/Off-Schedule Report
9. Solid Waste Superintendent Report – Mr. Ed Howard
Other Business
10. Engineering Report – Mr. Paul Riley, The Riley Co. of Louisiana
11. Consider and approve the Substantial Completions for Lakeshore Drive.
12. Consider and approve the Final Change Order for Lakeshore Drive.
13. Consider and adopt the Ordinance levying the .4% Sales and Use Tax
14. Consider and adopt the Ordinance levying the .6% Sales and Use Tax
15. Consider and adopt the Resolution canvassing the return and declaring the results of the special election for the May 3, 2025, renewal of Sales and Use Taxes.
16. Consider and accept the letter of resignation from the Quitman Fire Protection District #1
17. Ms. Kristin Delahoussaye of Capital Area Finance Authority
18. Consider and act on Parish Board appointments
Announcements and Notifications
Juror Comments
Adjourn

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance, please contact Nia Evans, Secretary-Treasurer at (318) 259-2361 describing the assistance that is necessary.

 

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The Board of Aldermen for the Town of Jonesboro held a “Special Called” meeting on Thursday, June 5th, in the conference room of City Hall that resulted in saving the town thousands of dollars per month.

This was done through the introduction of a pair of Ordinances and adoption of two Resolutions that changed the way waste is collected in the town and who is doing the collection.

Additional business handled by Robbie Siadek, James Ginn, and Nia Evans was the introduction of several budget Ordinances and the approval of a contract for a sewer main replacement. Absent was Devin Flowers and Robert Hunter. 

The session started with an Ordinance being introduced concerning the amendment of the budget for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2024, and ending June 30, 2025, for the following:
A. General Revenues and Expenditures Ordinance 2024-001A
B. Water Revenues and Expenditures Ordinance 2025-002A
C. Sewer Revenues and Expenditures Ordinance 2024-003A
D. Street Sales Tax Revenues and Expenditures Ordinance 2024-004A

This was followed by the introduction of  Ordinance 2025-004, which allows for the adoption of the budget for fiscal year July 1, 2025, – June 30, 2026.

 Board members then turned their attention to making provisions for the operation of the newly created Waste Collections Department which will save the Town of Jonesboro an estimated $13,000.00 per month through the following Ordinances and Resolutions.

Introduction of Ordinance 2025-005 – Amends Jonesboro Code of Ordinances Sec. 32-104(f), regarding Garbage Rates
Introduction of Ordinance 2025-007 – Allows for repeal of Chapter 28 regarding garbage collection
Resolution Adopted –  Authorizes and approves the execution of a lease for a Rear
Loader Garbage Truck
Resolution Adopted –  Authorizes and approves the execution of a lease for Rollout Garbage Cans 

“We are very pleased to be moving forward with the Town of Jonesboro collecting its own waste instead of contracting this to an outside company as has been the practice in the past,” said Mayor Harris. “With the town leasing collection equipment and collecting our own waste, we will save a little over $13,000.00 per month.” 

In final action, the Board awarded a contract for a LDEQ Sewer Main Replacement and agreed to allow Mayor Harris to sign a grant agreement with the Division of Administration.

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Three players from state semi-finalist Weston High School and one from quarterfinalist Quitman High received All-State designation by the Louisiana Sports Writers Association (LSWA).

Three of the four were named to the Class B All-State first team in Hudson Pullig of Quitman High and both Ty Henderson and Drew Browning from Weston. Bryce Zehr from Weston also received Honorable Mention designation. 

Class B state champion Pitkin garnered the lion’s share of first team representatives with three players selected, including the father and son combination of J.C. Holt and Gavin Holt being chosen as Coach of the Year and Most Outstanding Player

2025 LSWA Class B All-State Baseball Team

Gavin Holt Pitkin Fr. .410
Cy Johnson Pitkin Sr. .388
Lincon Stephens Pitkin Jr. 8-1
Kyler Roberts Family Community Sr. .358
Rylan Thomas Family Community Sr. .419
Luke Williams Hicks Jr. .342
Ty Henderson Weston So. .402
Drew Browning Weston Jr. .415
Hudson Pullig Quitman Jr. 467
Caden Rivett Holden Sr. .429
Maddox Attales Grace Christian Sr. .347
Brayden Holloway Glenmora So. .446
Tanner Stockman Elizabeth Sr. .555
Cameron Durr Converse Sr. .392
Kyle Scott Anacoco Sr. .335
Layne Baguex Lacassine Fr. .371

OUTSTANDING PLAYER: GAVIN HOLT, PITKIN
COACH OF THE YEAR: J.C. HOLT, PITKIN

Honorable Mention

Eli Cottingham, Family Community; Hunter Dauzat, Elizabeth; Aidan Hutchinson, Holden; Gage James, Pitkin; Dayne Martin, Pitkin; Micah Merchant, Hicks; Noah Spears, Doyline; Caleb Taylor, Anacoco; Kanyon Wright, Grace Christian; Bryce Zehr, Weston.

 

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