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

Jackson Parish Hospital Service District No. 1 d/b/a Jackson Parish Hospital is seeking a Full-Time Pediatrician. Qualifications include Board certification in Pediatrics, a minimum of 10 years of experience, proficiency with EPSDT, experience with Rural Health Clinics, and an initial term of service of 3 years.

Please mail CV to:
Jackson Parish Hospital
165 Beech Springs Rd
Jonesboro, LA 71251
Attn: John Morgan, CEO

CAREER OPPORTUNITY

Jackson Parish School Board – Seeking a Custodian for work at Jonesboro-Hodge Middle School, located at 440 Old Winnfield Hwy (167 South) in Jonesboro. To apply, contact JHMS Principal Brent Carpenter at (318) 259-6611.

CAREER OPPORTUNITY

Jackson Parish School Board – Seeking substitute bus drivers for Jackson Parish School District routes. Applicants must have a CDL license with a passenger/school bus endorsement. If interested, contact Jackson Parish School District Transportation Director David Brown at (318) 259-4456 or send an email to david.brown@jpsbschools.us

PUBLIC NOTICE 

Jackson Parish School Board Meeting Minutes
August 4, 2025

The Jackson Parish School Board met in a regular scheduled meeting at 11:00 a.m. on August 4, 2025 at Jackson Parish School Board, 315 Pershing Highway, Jonesboro, La.
The following were present for roll call: Gerry Mims, Mary Saulters, Paulette Belton, Rick Barlow, Wade McBride, Dennis Clary and Calvin Waggoner.
Absent: None
Dennis Clary gave the Invocation.
Paulette Belton led in the Pledge of Allegiance.
The meeting was called to order by Gerry Mims.A motion was made by Mary Saulters, seconded by Rick Barlow and carried to approve the minutes from the Regular Scheduled meeting held on July 7, 2025.A motion was made by Paulette Belton, seconded by Wade McBride and carried to adopt the 2025 Millage Rates.

A motion was made by Mary Saulters, seconded by Dennis Clary and carried to approve the Guidelines and Procedures for Crisis Intervention and Implementing Seclusion/Restraint Techniques required by Louisiana Act 479.
A motion was made by Dennis Clary, seconded by Calvin Waggoner and carried to approve the teaching of the Eddie Eagle Gunsafe program (30-minute instructional time frame) in 2nd and 3rd grade, as required by La. R.S. 17:282:5. The program will be taught during the first week of school in the 2025-2026 school year and each year thereafter.
Mary Saulters reported to the Board on the meeting of the Executive Finance Committee held prior to the Board meeting.
A motion was made by Wade McBride, seconded by Rick Barlow and carried to approve for payment the following bills: General Fund, Federal Program, School Food Service, Sales Tax, Special Education, District Maintenance bills.
A motion was made by Dennis Clary, seconded by Rick Barlow and carried approving to pay Employer’s Share of Office of Group Benefits insurance premiums from General Fund for the September 2025 sales tax distribution.
A motion was made by Wade McBride, seconded by Paulette Belton and carried approving payment of $16,750.00 for the renewal contract with Career Compass for 12th grade students at Jonesboro Hodge High School, Quitman High School and Weston High School, to be paid from 2025-2026 Career Development funds.
A motion was made by Rick Barlow, seconded by Paulette Belton and carried granting permission for Superintendent Carter to sign the Cooperative Agreement between the Louisiana Cooperative Extension Service and Jackson Parish School Board effective July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026.
A motion was made by Mary Saulters, seconded by Dennis Clary and carried approving a pay increase from $100.00 to $125.00 an hour for the yearly contract with Ellen Brocato, School Psychologist, to be paid from General Fund.
A motion was made by Rick Barlow, seconded by Calvin Waggoner and carried approving the distribution of Certificated and Support Staff Stipends, with a payment of $2,000.00 for Certificated and $1,000.00 for Non-Certificated personnel. In addition, consider paying the Pre-K Teachers $2,000.00 stipend, Pre-K Paraprofessionals $1,000.00 stipend, and Support Supervisors – $2,000.00 stipend. Funding Sources: Certificated and Support Staff Stipends Allocation and General Fund. (Pending LDOE approval and release of funds)
A motion was made by Wade McBride, seconded by Dennis Clary and carried approving payment of $11,400.00 to Dyslexia Resource Center for Dyslexia Training for three (3) employees, to be paid from the General Fund.
A motion was made by Paulette Belton, seconded by Dennis Clary and carried approving payment of $12,000.00 to Bailey Education Group to provide eight (8) onsite coaching sessions to Special Education teachers district wide, to be paid from IDEA 611 Set Aside funds.
A motion was made by Calvin Waggoner, seconded by Rick Barlow and carried granting permission for Superintendent Carter to sign the Sharing Agreement between the Jackson Parish School Board and the Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office. The terms of the agreement shall be August 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026.
A motion was made by Dennis Clary, seconded by Paulette Belton and carried approving payment to Louisiana Delta Community College in the amount of $20,467.68 for Jump Start Summers tuition, to be paid from 2024-2025 Supplemental Course Allocation funds and/or Education Excellence funds.
A motion was made by Wade McBride, seconded by Dennis Clary and carried approving the Job Description for Central Office Payroll/Grants Data Coordinator.
Kristi Bass, Business Manager presented the Financial Report.
Wade McBride reported to the Board on the meeting of the Building and Grounds Committee held prior to the Board meeting.
A motion was made by Wade McBride, seconded by Rick Barlow and carried approving payment of $62,500.00 to Culpepper Backhoe Service, LLC. as follows: $35,000.00 down payment on materials cost, $27,500.00 upon completion of the work, for water line extensions to Weston High School baseball and softball fields, to be paid from Weston District funds.
Rick Barlow reported to the Board on the meeting of the Transportation Committee.
A motion was made by Calvin Waggoner, seconded by Paulette Belton and carried approving out of state travel for Weston High School Baseball to travel to Frisco, Texas, March 19-21, 2026. The travel dates are during Spring Break. All expenses to be paid by Weston Baseball. The baseball team will be competing in a two-game series against Pitkin High School.
Paulette Belton reported to the Board on the meeting of the Policy Committee.
A motion was made by Mary Saulters, seconded by Rick Barlow and carried approving to revise the following policies:
• IDDFC – Cameras in Special Education Classrooms
• JGCF – Behavioral Health Support for Students
Bonnie Buckelew presented additional information on these revisions.
A motion was made by Mary Saulters, seconded by Rick Barlow and carried to adjourn at 11:30 a.m.

Henry Leo Williams
June 4, 1941 – August 4, 2025

Henry Leo Williams, age 84 of Ruston, Louisiana, made his way to his Heavenly home on Monday, August 4, 2025. Henry was born in Rayville, Louisiana on Wednesday, June 4, 1941 to Henry R. and Fannie Mae (Rouse) Williams. Henry will be remembered best for being a serious man and a hard worker. He retired from plumbing after 27 years of dedicated service. In his free time Henry liked being outdoors running dogs and hunting squirrels, deer, and rabbit. He enjoyed spending time with his friends and especially, his family.

Those left to cherish his memory is his beloved wife of 59 years, Bessie (Walker) Williams; children, Perry Williams and Linda, Jessie Williams and Dana, and Sonia Williams and Jason. He also survived by 9 grandchildren; and his siblings, Ruth Noble and Norman, Jimmy R. Williams and Debbie; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Henry is preceded in death by his parents, Henry Robert Williams and Fannie Mae (Rouse) Williams Minter; and his siblings, Allie B. Walker, Mary Alice Smith, Juanita Williams, and Bobbie Joe Williams.

The family will hold a memorial service at a later date.

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Chatham Mayor Gregory Harris announces that as of 10:00 am on Friday, August 8th, 2025, the Chatham Water System has been placed under a boil advisory by the Louisiana Department of Health that will remain in effect until further notice.

The boil advisory, which only affects Chatham Water System Customers, was issued due to the main line having to be cut off to isolate water so that an old two-inch (2”) main could be capped. New Hope customers are not included in the boil advisory, as that part of the system maintained water pressure.

It is recommended that all consumers disinfect their water before consuming it (including fountain drinks), making ice, brushing teeth, or using it for food preparation or rinsing of foods by the following means:

Boil water for one (1) full minute in a clean container. The one-minute starts after the water has been brought to a rolling boil. (The flat taste can be eliminated by shaking the water in a clean bottle or pouring it from one clean container to another, or by adding a pinch of salt to each quart of water that is boiled.)

Again, those under the boil advisory, be sure to disinfect your water prior to consumption until you have been advised otherwise.

Samples collected from the water supply were sent to the Louisiana Office of Public Health Regional Laboratory for testing. Once Chatham officials have received notification that the water supply has been deemed safe, the Boil Advisory will then be lifted. 

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The Boil Advisory that had been issued for the Village of Quitman water system has been lifted.

The announcement was given at 12:00 pm on Tuesday, August 5th, after investigation by the Louisiana Department of Health proved that the bacteriological and chlorine residual samples that had been submitted by Village of Quitman officials were at or above the state minimum requirement of 0.5 ppm. (parts per million)

The reason that the precautionary boil advisory was put in place was due to pressure in the water system dropping too low, and the wells and tank were not communicating with each other properly, which is believed to be caused by storm damage to the electronic controllers. 

What to do after a Boil Advisory has been lifted

Flush Plumbing:

Run cold water: Open all cold water faucets (including showers and bathtubs) and let them run for at least 5 minutes.
Start from the top: When flushing, begin with the highest point in your house and work your way down.
Consider longer flushing times: If you have a complex plumbing system, like in an apartment building, you may need to flush for a longer period.
Flush outdoor spigots: Disconnect any hoses and flush for five minutes.

Clean or Replace Aerators:

Remove and clean: Unscrew the aerator from each faucet and soak it in a bleach solution (1 teaspoon of bleach per gallon of water).
Reinstall: Clean and reinstall the aerators.

Flush Appliances:

Ice makers: Discard any existing ice and flush the ice maker by making and discarding several batches of ice cubes. Clean the ice bin with a disinfectant.
Refrigerators with water dispensers: Flush the water dispenser for several minutes, or until you’ve dispensed at least a quart of water.
Dishwashers: If your dishwasher has a sanitize cycle, run it once without dishes.
Water heaters: Run hot water from all faucets until it runs cold, or drain the water heater if you prefer.
Water softeners/filters: Run a regeneration cycle for water softeners and replace any disposable water filters.
Reverse Osmosis (RO) units: Replace pre-filters.

Other Important Steps:

Discard contaminated food: Discard any food or baby formula prepared with water during the boil order.
Replace water filters: Replace any disposable water filters, especially those near the end of their lifespan.
Monitor for symptoms: If anyone experiences symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, or nausea after consuming water, seek medical attention.

 

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Five new members will be inducted into the Jackson Parish Sports Hall of Fame during a special ceremony and banquet that will be held on October 4th in the Family Life Center of the First Baptist Church in Jonesboro. 

Being enshrined as the “Class of 2025” are Sonny Terrill, Larry Hicks, and Steve Treadway of Jonesboro-Hodge High School, Amanda Barham from Quitman High School, and Scott Carter from Weston High School. 

Reservations for seats and tables for the banquet that will include a social hour and a catered meal are now being taken, with the cost of a seat being $25.00 and tables of eight for $225.00. To finalize a reservation, please send a check or money order to: 
Jackson Parish Sports Hall of Fame
c/o Wilda Smith 
PO Box 192
Jonesboro, LA 71251

The Jackson Parish Sports Hall of Fame was created from a vision held by Mr. Henry Kimp of a venue to recognize the talent and sportsmanship that have been a hallmark of Jackson Parish. The hall of fame recognizes athletes, coaches, and administrators who have lived or worked in Jackson Parish and who have made a great impact in the arena of sports.

In 2008, the first meeting of a loosely formed board of the Jackson Parish Sports Hall of Fame was held with Henry Kimp, Bobby Culpepper, Leslie Thompson, Nathaniel Belton, and Raymond Jeffress present. It was declared that the primary function of the Hall of Fame would be to create a memorial so that future generations can see the individuals and their accomplishments as they have represented Jackson Parish.

In 2009, the inaugural induction ceremony took place with John Garlington, Bob Hopkins, Jo Ann Jackson-Buckner, Dr. Arnold Kilpatrick, and Edgar Walker being the first class to be enshrined. 

With the inclusion of this year’s class, the Jackson Parish Sports Hall of Fame boasts 83 inductees and five Meritorious Award winners. Visitation to the JPSHOF, which is currently housed at the Jackson Parish Recreation Department Sports Complex, located at 5254 Hwy 4 east of Jonesboro, is available by appointment only. 

 

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(Louisiana Highway Safety Commission) – School zones, yellow buses, and excited children sprinting from sidewalks to streets are coming soon to a neighborhood near you as Louisiana gears up for a new school year.

The Louisiana Highway Safety Commission reminds drivers that schools will soon begin classes, meaning means school zones that have been dormant since May will be active again in the mornings and afternoons.

“Just as students are preparing for another school year, drivers need to mentally prepare for active school zones and slow down to the posted speed,” LHSC Executive Director Lisa Freeman said.

School zone times vary around the state but generally are in effect from 6 a.m. to 8 a.m. and from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. during school days.

Freeman reminded drivers that it is illegal to use a hand-held cell phone in a school zone in Louisiana. A first-offense fine can be as much as $500.

“It is dangerous, it is illegal, and it can be very expensive,” Freeman said.

Drivers also must remain vigilant around school buses, especially in the afternoons, when children are walking home after getting off the bus. “Kids don’t always look before they run into the street; it’s up to us as adults to watch out for them,” Freeman said.

When a school bus’s red lights are flashing and its stop arm is extended, all traffic moving in the same direction as the bus must stop until the stop arm and lights are disengaged. Traffic moving in the opposite direction of the bus may have to stop, depending on the type of road:

On a two-lane road, a three-lane road with a center turning lane, or a four-lane road with no physical median, all vehicles in both directions must stop.

On a divided highway with a grass median or other physical barrier, vehicles moving in the same direction as the bus must stop; oncoming traffic should proceed with caution.

On a highway with a center turning lane with two travel lanes on each side, vehicles moving in the same direction as the bus must stop; oncoming traffic should proceed with caution.

Passing a stopped school bus that has its stop arm and lights activated is dangerous and illegal. Even if the passing vehicle does not strike anyone, the driver can be fined up to $500 and six months in prison.

Despite this, drivers across Louisiana continue to illegally pass school buses, according to a 2025 survey by the National Association of State Director of Pupil Transportation Services. The survey showed that about 29% of Louisiana school bus drivers reported their buses had been illegally passed on just one day.

(To see a compilation video of vehicles passing stopped buses in Louisiana on LHSC’s YouTube channel, click here.)

“The main takeaway is to be aware during this time of year,” Freeman said. “We all have to recalibrate some of our driving habits when school begins, so slow down in school zones, watch for school buses, and be patient driving in areas where children may be present.”

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The Jackson Parish School Board held its regular scheduled meeting on Monday, August 4th, in the Conference Room of the Jackson Parish School District Central Office located at 315 Pershing Hwy in Jonesboro.

To open the session, board members Gerry Mims, Mary Saulters, Paulette Belton, Rick Barlow, Wade McBride, Dennis Clary, and Calvin Waggoner unanimously agreed through a roll call vote to adopt the 2025 Milage Rate of 28.18 mils, broken down as:

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GENERAL FUND	2025 LEVY
Constitutional Tax	5.45 mils
Parishwide Additional Support	8.42 mils
Parishwide Additional Mainenance & Operation Tax	8.33 mils
Parishwide Additional Maintenance & Operation Tax	5.96 mils

Additional business handled included:

(1) Approve the Guidelines and Procedures for Crisis Intervention and Implementing Seclusion/Restraint Techniques required by Louisiana Act 479.

(2) Approve the teaching of the Eddie Eagle Gunsafe program (30-minute instructional time frame) in 2nd and 3rd grade, as required by La. R.S. 17:282:5. The program will be taught during the first week of school in the 2025-2026 school year and each year thereafter.

(3) Approve for payment the following bills: General Fund, Federal Program, School Food Service, Sales Tax, Special Education, and District Maintenance bills.

(4) Approving to pay the Employer’s Share of Office of Group Benefits insurance premiums from the General Fund for the September 2025 sales tax distribution.

(5) Approving payment of $16,750.00 for the renewal contract with Career Compass for 12th-grade students at Jonesboro Hodge High School, Quitman High School, and Weston High School, to be paid from 2025-2026 Career Development funds.

(6) Granting permission for Superintendent Carter to sign the Cooperative Agreement between the Louisiana Cooperative Extension Service and Jackson Parish School Board effective July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026.

(7) Approving a pay increase from $100.00 to $125.00 an hour for the yearly contract with Ellen Brocato, School Psychologist, to be paid from the General Fund.

(8) Approving the distribution of Certificated and Support Staff Stipends, with a payment of $2,000.00 for Certificated and $1,000.00 for Non-Certificated personnel. In addition, consider paying the Pre-K Teachers $2,000.00 stipend, Pre-K Paraprofessionals $1,000.00 stipend, and Support Supervisors – $2,000.00 stipend. Funding Sources: Certificated and Support Staff Stipends Allocation and General Fund. (Pending LDOE approval and release of funds)

(9) Approving payment of $11,400.00 to Dyslexia Resource Center for Dyslexia Training for three (3) employees, to be paid from the General Fund.

(10) Approving payment of $12,000.00 to Bailey Education Group to provide eight (8) onsite coaching sessions to Special Education teachers district-wide, to be paid from IDEA 611 Set Aside funds.

(11) Granting permission for Superintendent Carter to sign the Sharing Agreement between the Jackson Parish School Board and the Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office. The terms of the agreement shall be from August 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026.

(12) Approving payment to Louisiana Delta Community College in the amount of $20,467.68 for Jump Start Summers tuition, to be paid from 2024-2025 Supplemental Course Allocation funds and/or Education Excellence funds.

(13) Approving the Job Description for Central Office Payroll/Grants Data Coordinator.

(14) Approving payment of $62,500.00 to Culpepper Backhoe Service, LLC., as follows: $35,000.00 down payment on materials cost, $27,500.00 upon completion of the work, for water line extensions to Weston High School baseball and softball fields, to be paid from Weston District funds.

(15) Approving out-of-state travel for Weston High School Baseball to travel to Frisco, Texas, March 19-21, 2026. The travel dates are during Spring Break. All expenses to be paid by Weston Baseball. The baseball team will be competing in a two-game series against Pitkin High School.

(16) Approving to revise the following policies:

• IDDFC – Cameras in Special Education Classrooms
• JGCF – Behavioral Health Support for Students

Bonnie Buckelew presented additional information on these revisions.

Official minutes of the August 4th meeting can be viewed in the Classifieds Section of the Jackson Parish Journal 

 

 

Jonesboro-Hodge High School announces that Orientation for all 9th-12th grade students will take place on Thursday, August 7th, in the JHHS Auditorium. The session for 9th and 10th grade students will run from 9:00 – 11:00 am, while the 11th and 12th grade students will hold their session from 1:00 -3:00 pm. 

JHHS Dress Code for 2025-26

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The Beautification of Jonesboro Project continued on July 30th with the Jonesboro Fire Department executing a control burn of a vacant and unsafe dwelling on Hearne Street. The action also served as a training session for the JFD Firefighters who had the opportunity to deal with a house fire in a controlled atmosphere.  

The Beautification Project was instituted several years ago in an effort to remove unsightly and unsafe buildings from the corporate limits of the Town of Jonesboro, while also making the area safer from harm that could come from being in or around dilapidated buildings and dwellings.  

If you would like to have a building, structure or dwelling removed from your property, contact City Hall at (318) 259 – 2385 or the Jonesboro Fire Department at (318) 259 – 5028. 

A stipulation of the Beautification of Jonesboro Project is that the debris left over from a control burn or razing of a property is required to be cleaned up and removed by the property owner.

Three Properties Identified for Condemnation

Jonesboro Compliance Officer, Austin Ballott, announces that three properties within the corporate limits of the Town of Jonesboro are to be considered for condemnation at the next meeting of the Jonesboro Board of Aldermen, which is scheduled for September 9th. 

The locations are:
403 Mayfield Street
111 Cooper Avenue
209 Cedar Street

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Are you ready for some football? It won’t be long now until the Jonesboro-Hodge High School varsity and junior varsity football teams take to the field for the 2025-26 season. 

To help you prepare for your visits to Caldwell-Peacock Stadium for the Tigers’ home games and make plans for traveling to the away games, the JHHS coaching staff has provided an updated season schedule as shown below.

Please be reminded that season tickets as well as individual game tickets are to be purchased via the Hudl Fan app as Jonesboro-Hodge is no longer using the GoFan platform.

JHHS 2025 Varsity Football Schedule 

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JHHS 2025 Junior Varsity Football Schedule 

The administration and staff of the Jackson Parish Hospital are proud to announce that Kristie Bradley has been named the ‘WOW’ Award recipient for the month of August. 

A dedicated Medical Assistant in the clinics, whose peers describe as someone who goes above and beyond each day, Kristie’s outstanding customer service, compassionate care, and unwavering commitment to excellence shine through in every patient interaction.

Knowing that kindness and attentiveness can turn someone’s difficult day into a positive experience, Krisite does just that, time and time again.

“Thank you for all that you do, Kristie! You truly embody what it means to be ‘WOW’! Your contributions play a vital role in advancing our mission of providing exceptional care to the communities we serve.” – Jackson Parish Hospital  

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The dedicated administration and staff at Forest Haven Nursing Home and Rehabilitation Center, under the leadership of Director Sandra Billings, have for many years provided residents with the best in long-term care, which has earned the facility located at 175 Thrasher Street in Jonesboro multiple national awards. 

One of the staples of their commitment to making their patients have the best experience possible is through having a tremendous amount of activities planned each and every month. 

This month is no exception, as every single day in August features an educational and entertaining opportunity for the residents to take part in, designed to help them physically and uplift their spirits. 

August Activity Schedule 

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The administration and staff of the Jackson Parish Library invite you to come to a book signing of the newest publication by local author Mr. Thomas Faber on Saturday, August 9th. The event will take place from 10:00 – 11:45 am at the Main Branch, located at 624 South Polk Street in Jonesboro.

As the author of multiple books published by Full Grit Ministries and Publishing, Faber invites you to explore clean, faith-based publications that meet you in the middle of life’s journey. Also available for purchase will be other editions containing clean fiction, devotionals, Bible studies and inspirational non-fiction, all designed to encourage and uplift your spirit. 

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Egg Basket Weaving Classes on Wednesday and Thursday 

A host of volunteers, ranging from students, coaches, faculty, alumni, and parents, came together on July 31st to help build future success at Weston High School – literally.  Armed with shovels, mallets, mauls, lumber and nails the group began on the task of erecting new batting cages for the Weston High School baseball team by clearing the land, leveling the foundation and forming the frames of the structure that will be beside the WHS on campus field.   

2025 Softball Batting Cage Fundraiser

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The Weston High School Softball team is asking donations for the construction of batting cages to be located by the new Lady Wolves softball field on the WHS campus. A goal of $10,000.00 is hoped to be raised, with a little under half of the total already given. Your support of the program is greatly appreciated. 

To donate to the Lady Wolves program, click here, go to the Weston High School Softball Facebook page, or https://share.teamfunded.com/J2fviwDeFfVDeP6z6n

Your support of the Lady Wolves Softball program is greatly appreciated. 

The Jackson Parish School District, in partnership with Louisiana Delta Community College in Jonesboro, is proud to celebrate a highly successful 2025 Jump Start Summers program!

Seventeen students participated in the Welding Program, committing to seven hours per day for 40 workdays. Through their dedication and hard work, 13 students earned their AWS Welding Certification, college credits, and valuable career experience!

Additional advantages for the students were the $10.00 per hour income they earned along with extra stipends awarded for Perfect Attendance and earning a statewide credential — making this both an educational and rewarding summer.

“A huge thank you goes to Mr. Dallas Mays, our exceptional welding instructor, for his incredible guidance and support to both the students and Jackson Parish Schools.
We are proud of our students and grateful for the opportunities this program continues to provide!” – Jackson Parish School District

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August 1st, 2025  marked a special milestone for Benoit Motors  – 7 years since the opening of the very first Benoit Ford dealership in Deridder! From humble beginnings to now serving five dealerships across the region, including Benoit Ford in Jonesboro, it has been an incredible journey for the auto group, which is now established as a small market auto sales/service leader in north Louisiana. 

Benoit Motors Growth

Benoit Ford Deridder– opened August 1, 2018
Benoit Nissan Deridder– added in 2019
Benoit Jeep RAM Deridder– added in 2019
Benoit Ford Farmerville – opened in 2021
Benoit Chevrolet GMC Farmerville – joined in 2023
Benoit Ford Jonesboro – launched in 2024

“Through dedication and a commitment to our customers, we continue to grow and provide exceptional service. We want to thank everyone of you for being a part of our story and for your continued support. Here’s to many more years of Small Town Values, Big City Deals!”

The BIG GAME Sales Event

It’s kickoff time at Benoit Ford Jonesboro! The Big Game Sales Event is here, and we’re bringing the heat with FOUR winning deals:

F-150 XLT – $6,000 Off + 4.9% APR (with approved credit
Mustang Mach-E – $39,000 + 0% APR (with approved credit
Escape ST-Line – $5,000 Off MSRP
Mustang GT – $6,500 Off MSRP

The savings are real, and the field is wide open — come make your play!
See dealer for details. Customer pays TT&L. Sale ends August 31st, 2025.

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Internships are a powerful way for students to explore their possible future careers. Just ask Jaidon Vincent of Jonesboro-Hodge High School who, thanks to Jonesboro State Bank / Pledge 10, now has a better idea of what a career in banking is all about. 

July 30th marked the last day that Vincent reported for work at JSB, ending her summer internship as she prepares for her senior year at JHHS. To celebrate the special day, a party was thrown in her honor by the administration and staff who wished her the best in her future endeavors. 

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On July 5, 1934, 26-year-old Violet Hilton and her 29-year-old fiancé Maurice Lambert, a widower, went to the Municipal License Bureau in Manhattan, New York to get a marriage license. Violet’s sister, Daisy, went along too. The sisters were inseparable. Violet and Daisy were musicians and performers. In 1911, Violet and Daisy began performing a sister act in Great Britain. Their popularity grew and they performed throughout Europe. In 1916, they started performing in the United States.

They sang in perfect harmony, tap-danced in synchronization, and played clarinets and saxophones in harmony. People flocked to see them. In 1926, Violet and Daisy were featured in an act called the “Dancemedians” with George Byrne and Les Hope. In one notable part of the act, the sisters danced the fox-trot with George Byrne and Les Hope. Les, Leslie Hope, changed his name shortly thereafter to Bob Hope. In the 1930s, Maurice was a musician, orchestra leader, and the musical director for Violet and Daisy’s vaudeville act.

As the trio waited for the clerk to return with the marriage license, crowds gathered around Violet and Daisy requesting autographs, giving marital advice, and showering them with well wishes. They learned that Daisy was engaged to be married as well. It was a joyous occasion, but what was supposed to be the happiest day for a bride-to-be was suddenly spoiled. After careful consideration, Chief Clerk Julius Brosen of the marriage license bureau denied their request for a marriage license because “the very idea is quite immoral and indecent.”

Undeterred but irritated, Maurice said they would go elsewhere to get a marriage license. Following their denial in New York, Maurice, Violet, and Daisy visited the City Hall in Newark, New Jersey, but the result was the same. City Clerk Harry Reichenstein denied their request because of “moral reasons.” The trio “departed in a huff.” Violet’s attorney, Irvin Levy, filed a motion with the New York Supreme Court to compel the city to issue Violet and Maurice a marriage license. After a week-long legal battle, Supreme Court Justice Kenneth P. O’Brien denied the motion. The Court decided that Violet and Maurice “must not wed,” at least not in the state of New York.

Violet was determined to marry Maurice. “I’ve made up my mind to get married,” Violet said, “and that’s all there is to it.” In all, Violet and Maurice tried to get married in 21 states but were denied each time on moral grounds. Eventually, Violet and Maurice had no choice but to give up their dream of being husband and wife.

The moral reason for which those clerks refused Violet and Maurice’s request for a marriage license was because Daisy was always with Violet. It was well known that Violet and Daisy worked together, traveled together, ate every meal together, slept in the same bed, and bathed together.

After the states of New York and New Jersey initially denied Violet and Maurice’s request for a marriage license, scientists were brought in but were unable to agree whether Violet and Daisy were individuals or the same person. You see, Violet and Daisy Hilton really were inseparable. They were joined at the hip. They were conjoined twins.

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It’s time to place your order for the 2025 Jonesboro Fire Department Breast Cancer Awareness T-shirts. An order can be made by coming to the Jonesboro Fire Station, located at 104 4th Street in Jonesboro.  

This year, the shirts will be offered in pink, gray, and navy. Sizes are youth extra small to adult 4X for the gray and navy with the PINK shirts being available in youth extra small to adult 3X sizes.

Costs are as follows:
$20.00 – youth XS to adult XL sizes
$22.00 – 2X size
$25.00 – 3X/4X sizes

The last day to place your order will be September 14, 2025.

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Coach Lance Seymore announces that tryouts for the 2025-26 Quitman High School Golf Team will take place on Thursday, August 7th. Open to all incoming 8th – 12th grade boys and girls, the event will begin at 11:00 am at the Jackson Parish Golf Course.

Those interested in trying out for the team are reminded to bring their own golf clubs and water.  For more information or questions, contact Coach Seymore at lance.seymore@jpsbschools.us

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Looking for Utopia?

“And he said unto them, When ye pray, say, Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, as in heaven, so in earth (Luke 11:2 KJV).”

Amen; let it be Lord.

Imagine the Father’s will perfectly followed; done here on earth.

One day all mankind will submit to the Father’s perfect will.

“That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father (Philippians 2:10-11 KJV).”

His will in earth as in heaven; I call that true utopia.

”And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea. And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God. And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away. And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful (Revelation 21:1-5 KJV).”

True!

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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

Jackson Parish Hospital Service District No. 1 d/b/a Jackson Parish Hospital is seeking a Full-Time Pediatrician. Qualifications include Board certification in Pediatrics, a minimum of 10 years of experience, proficiency with EPSDT, experience with Rural Health Clinics, and an initial term of service of 3 years.

Please mail CV to:
Jackson Parish Hospital
165 Beech Springs Rd
Jonesboro, LA 71251
Attn: John Morgan, CEO

CAREER OPPORTUNITY

Jackson Parish School Board – Seeking a Custodian for work at Jonesboro-Hodge Middle School, located at 440 Old Winnfield Hwy (167 South) in Jonesboro. To apply, contact JHMS Principal Brent Carpenter at (318) 259-6611.

CAREER OPPORTUNITY

Jackson Parish School Board – Seeking substitute bus drivers for Jackson Parish School District routes. Applicants must have a CDL license with a passenger/school bus endorsement. If interested, contact Jackson Parish School District Transportation Director David Brown at (318) 259-4456 or send an email to david.brown@jpsbschools.us

PUBLIC NOTICE 

Jackson Parish School Board Meeting Minutes
August 4, 2025

The Jackson Parish School Board met in a regular scheduled meeting at 11:00 a.m. on August 4, 2025 at Jackson Parish School Board, 315 Pershing Highway, Jonesboro, La.
The following were present for roll call: Gerry Mims, Mary Saulters, Paulette Belton, Rick Barlow, Wade McBride, Dennis Clary and Calvin Waggoner.
Absent: None
Dennis Clary gave the Invocation.
Paulette Belton led in the Pledge of Allegiance.
The meeting was called to order by Gerry Mims.A motion was made by Mary Saulters, seconded by Rick Barlow and carried to approve the minutes from the Regular Scheduled meeting held on July 7, 2025.A motion was made by Paulette Belton, seconded by Wade McBride and carried to adopt the 2025 Millage Rates.

A motion was made by Mary Saulters, seconded by Dennis Clary and carried to approve the Guidelines and Procedures for Crisis Intervention and Implementing Seclusion/Restraint Techniques required by Louisiana Act 479.
A motion was made by Dennis Clary, seconded by Calvin Waggoner and carried to approve the teaching of the Eddie Eagle Gunsafe program (30-minute instructional time frame) in 2nd and 3rd grade, as required by La. R.S. 17:282:5. The program will be taught during the first week of school in the 2025-2026 school year and each year thereafter.
Mary Saulters reported to the Board on the meeting of the Executive Finance Committee held prior to the Board meeting.
A motion was made by Wade McBride, seconded by Rick Barlow and carried to approve for payment the following bills: General Fund, Federal Program, School Food Service, Sales Tax, Special Education, District Maintenance bills.
A motion was made by Dennis Clary, seconded by Rick Barlow and carried approving to pay Employer’s Share of Office of Group Benefits insurance premiums from General Fund for the September 2025 sales tax distribution.
A motion was made by Wade McBride, seconded by Paulette Belton and carried approving payment of $16,750.00 for the renewal contract with Career Compass for 12th grade students at Jonesboro Hodge High School, Quitman High School and Weston High School, to be paid from 2025-2026 Career Development funds.
A motion was made by Rick Barlow, seconded by Paulette Belton and carried granting permission for Superintendent Carter to sign the Cooperative Agreement between the Louisiana Cooperative Extension Service and Jackson Parish School Board effective July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026.
A motion was made by Mary Saulters, seconded by Dennis Clary and carried approving a pay increase from $100.00 to $125.00 an hour for the yearly contract with Ellen Brocato, School Psychologist, to be paid from General Fund.
A motion was made by Rick Barlow, seconded by Calvin Waggoner and carried approving the distribution of Certificated and Support Staff Stipends, with a payment of $2,000.00 for Certificated and $1,000.00 for Non-Certificated personnel. In addition, consider paying the Pre-K Teachers $2,000.00 stipend, Pre-K Paraprofessionals $1,000.00 stipend, and Support Supervisors – $2,000.00 stipend. Funding Sources: Certificated and Support Staff Stipends Allocation and General Fund. (Pending LDOE approval and release of funds)
A motion was made by Wade McBride, seconded by Dennis Clary and carried approving payment of $11,400.00 to Dyslexia Resource Center for Dyslexia Training for three (3) employees, to be paid from the General Fund.
A motion was made by Paulette Belton, seconded by Dennis Clary and carried approving payment of $12,000.00 to Bailey Education Group to provide eight (8) onsite coaching sessions to Special Education teachers district wide, to be paid from IDEA 611 Set Aside funds.
A motion was made by Calvin Waggoner, seconded by Rick Barlow and carried granting permission for Superintendent Carter to sign the Sharing Agreement between the Jackson Parish School Board and the Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office. The terms of the agreement shall be August 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026.
A motion was made by Dennis Clary, seconded by Paulette Belton and carried approving payment to Louisiana Delta Community College in the amount of $20,467.68 for Jump Start Summers tuition, to be paid from 2024-2025 Supplemental Course Allocation funds and/or Education Excellence funds.
A motion was made by Wade McBride, seconded by Dennis Clary and carried approving the Job Description for Central Office Payroll/Grants Data Coordinator.
Kristi Bass, Business Manager presented the Financial Report.
Wade McBride reported to the Board on the meeting of the Building and Grounds Committee held prior to the Board meeting.
A motion was made by Wade McBride, seconded by Rick Barlow and carried approving payment of $62,500.00 to Culpepper Backhoe Service, LLC. as follows: $35,000.00 down payment on materials cost, $27,500.00 upon completion of the work, for water line extensions to Weston High School baseball and softball fields, to be paid from Weston District funds.
Rick Barlow reported to the Board on the meeting of the Transportation Committee.
A motion was made by Calvin Waggoner, seconded by Paulette Belton and carried approving out of state travel for Weston High School Baseball to travel to Frisco, Texas, March 19-21, 2026. The travel dates are during Spring Break. All expenses to be paid by Weston Baseball. The baseball team will be competing in a two-game series against Pitkin High School.
Paulette Belton reported to the Board on the meeting of the Policy Committee.
A motion was made by Mary Saulters, seconded by Rick Barlow and carried approving to revise the following policies:
• IDDFC – Cameras in Special Education Classrooms
• JGCF – Behavioral Health Support for Students
Bonnie Buckelew presented additional information on these revisions.
A motion was made by Mary Saulters, seconded by Rick Barlow and carried to adjourn at 11:30 a.m.

Scott Allen Tucker
May 19, 1970 – August 1, 2025

Funeral services for Scott Allen Tucker will be held at 11:00 A.M., Friday, August 8, 2025, at Kilpatrick Funeral Home of Ruston. Interment will follow at Caney Lake Cemetery in Chatham, LA. Officiating the services will be Rev. Lance Otwell.. Visitation will be held prior to the service from 9:30 to 11:00 at Kilpatrick Funeral Home of Ruston.

Scott was born on May 19, 1970, in West Monroe, Louisiana, and passed from this earth to his heavenly home on August 1, 2025, at the age of fifty-five. Scott passed away surrounded by his loving family following sudden complications of pancreatic cancer.

Scott grew up in Jonesboro, Louisiana, and graduated from Jonesboro-Hodge High School in 1988. After graduation, he attended Universal Technical Institute in Houston, Texas, where he earned a degree in Diesel Mechanics. Scott enjoyed being in the woods and working in the logging industry. He spent many years operating heavy machinery and driving log trucks before going to work at the local paper mill. He also worked in the natural gas industry for many years before recently returning to the mill.

Scott spent his time away from work with family and friends. He was a huge fan of LSU baseball and football and loved attending games with his family. In earlier years, he enjoyed watching NASCAR races. He also loved deer hunting and socializing with friends. Although Scott did not serve in the military, he had a deep admiration for and strong respect toward all branches of service.

Scott enjoyed traveling (but not driving). His absolute favorite destination was Fort Walton Beach, Florida, where he and his wife and girls spent time simply sitting together and enjoying God’s beautiful creation. Many precious memories and lifelong friendships were made there.

Scott was preceded in death by his loving grandparents: Ollie Nolan Jr. and Angie Nolan; Harold Standley and Margaret Standley; Clyde Tucker and Rose Tucker; and, most recently, by his aunt Rebecca Faye “Becky” Nolan.

Those left to cherish Scott’s memory include his beloved wife of 27 years, Marie Leonard Tucker; and his precious daughters, Cassie Lynn Tucker and Cara Lynn Tucker. He often called each of them “darling,” a loving gesture he learned from his mother.

He is also survived by his parents: Ann Nolan Standley and Jimmy Standley of Caney Lake Community, Louisiana, and Scotty Tucker of Avery, Texas;
his sisters: Michelle Standley Martin and husband, Mickey, of Jonesboro; Ashley Standley Kanak and husband, Kevin, of Austin, Texas; and Kimberly Tucker Campbell and husband, Norman, of Jefferson, Arkansas;
his in-laws, Jerry Leonard and Sandy Leonard, of Coushatta, Louisiana, who loved him as a son; and his sister-in-law, Margaret Leonard.

He is also remembered with love by numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and many, many dear friends.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Scott’s charity of choice, or to the church of your choice.

Scott will be remembered for his quiet strength, his loyalty, his sense of humor, and his deep love for his family.

Serving as pallbearers will be David Everett, Ethan Everett, Ryan Greer, Matt Palmer, Justin “Bammer” Wiggins, and Jessie Williams. Honorary pallbearers will be Shellie Hennigan, Kevin Kanak, and Mickey Martin.

Online condolences may be extended to the family at www.kilpatrickfuneralhomes.com

Carolyn Lafield
October 20, 1948 – August 3, 2025

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Carolyn Lafield went to be with the Lord on August 3, 2025, at the age of 76 years old. A Public Viewing will be held from 5:00 – 8:00 pm on Wednesday, August 6th, at the Paradise Building in Jonesboro. The Life Celebration will be held at 2:00 pm on Thursday, August 7th, at Walnut Ridge Baptist Church in Quitman, LA, with Interment following at the Gayla Traina Cemetery in Jonesboro, LA, under the direction of Paradise Funeral Home. 

Henry Wilson Greer
February 28, 1940 – August 2, 2025

Henry W. Greer, 85, of Shreveport, Louisiana, passed away peacefully on August 2, 2025.

Born on February 28, 1940, in Athens, Louisiana, Henry was a proud and devoted man whose life was marked by service, hard work, and deep love for his family. After graduating high school, he pursued higher education at Northwestern State University before honorably serving in the United States Marine Corps.

Following his military service, Henry began a long and dedicated career at the paper mill in Hodge, where he worked from 1964 until his retirement in 2002. Known for his strong work ethic and quiet determination, he was respected by colleagues and friends alike.

Henry found joy in the outdoors, especially in hunting and fishing, and cherished spending time with his grandchildren—never missing a chance to support them at their sporting events. He was a steady presence, a loving father and grandfather, and a man who led with quiet strength.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Patsy Greer, and his second wife, Judy Greer.

Henry is survived by his children: Curtis Greer (Candy), Connie Shackelford (Ricky), Tammy Cumpton (Tim), and Shawn Burns. He also leaves behind his beloved grandchildren: Cody Greer, Kacy Greer, Ayden Greer(Mom Kristi), Christopher Shackelford (Rikki), Lyndsey Cumpton Tomatz (Scott Tomatz), Whitney Cumpton Laskoskie (Mike Laskoskie), Madison Siddon (Dustin), and Brooke Burns. He is also remembered by Brian Burns, father of Madison and Brooke, and a host of great-grandchildren.

After a visitation period on Monday, August 4, 2025, the funeral service was held on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at North Hodge Assembly of God. Interment followed at the Fellowship Cemetery in Quitman, LA, under the direction of Paradise Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the charity of your choice in Henry’s memory.

He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.