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Jonesboro-Hodge spotted homestanding Lincoln Prep leads in the first and second half only to come storming back for an inspirational 36-28 victory on Thursday in the District 1-1A opener for both teams. 

With their second straight victory, the Tigers evened their season record to 2-2 and moved to 1-0 in 1-1A play while Lincoln Prep fell to 1-3 overall and 0-1 in district competition. 

Unconventional Wisdom! The back-and-forth contest can only be described as one that went against the normal grain, as unexpected events took center stage and played a huge role in the victory. Here are a few examples. 

Only a Freshman, King Campbell completed 17 passes in only 24 attempts for 241 yards and three touchdowns, setting a new school record for single game completions, highest completion percentage with over 20 attempts (70.33%), and most TD passes in a single game by a freshman. 

Dakota Knox ran for a score while at quarterback and tailback, while also catching a pass for a touchdown while lined up as a receiver, becoming the first JHHS player to score three times from three different offensive positions. 

JHHS linebacker Maurice Baker stepped in at wingback and caught his first pass of the season, which he took for a 40-yard touchdown and the first score of his career. 

The Tigers held Lincoln Prep to just 15 yards in 17 plays in the first half, but the Panthers scored on interception returns of 72 and 102 yards, ranking as the second and fourth longest defensive scores against JHHS in school history. 

Mighty Mite! -Cameron Jackson is listed at 5’9″, 150 lbs. What is the big deal about that, you ask? He is the starting NOSEGUARD. For those not familiar with the position, this is the player who lines up directly across from the center on the defensive line and is usually reserved for one of the larger players on the team. 

Epitomizing the quote by Mark Twain of “It’s not the size of the dog in the fight, it’s the size of the fight in the dog,”  Jackson recorded 2 sacks and four tackles for a loss, all the while going against a player who weighed 330 lbs. – an incredible 180 pounds more than the cat quick sophomore. 

“Cameron has skills that are unique for the position,” said defensive coordinator Carlos Hicks. “He is so low to the ground and so quick off the ball that offensive linemen can’t block him.” 

Dylan Hayes and Sadaar Stevens also played big roles in the victory. Hayes recorded 11 tackles and forced a safety when his rush of the Lincoln Prep quarterback in the end zone forced a pass that was ruled as intentional grounding. Stevens got a sack and, more importantly, the 320-pound lineman went two for two in extra point kick attempts in the second half.  

For the contest, JHHS had 465 yards in total offense while posting 18 first downs, both new season highs. The Tigers were dominant on the defensive side of the ball as well, giving up just 133 total yards and allowing only 7 first downs.

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TEAM	1	2	3	4	FINAL
JHHS (2-2)	0	14	15	7	36
Lincoln Prep (1-3)	8	6	14	0	28

Individual Stats
Passing: Campbell (17-24-241 yards, 3 TD, 3 Int); Knox (2-7-37 yards)
Rushing: Knox 23-83, 2 TD’s
Receiving: Burns 4- 62, 1 TD; Burks 3-59; Johnson 4-43; Knox 3-25, 1 TD; Baker 1-40, 1 TD; Gray 4-17

An event that was filled with smiles, laughter, and fellowship was had by all as seniors enjoyed a morning of fun and community spirit on Thursday, September 25th, when Mayor J. Spike Harris visited the Council on Aging in Jonesboro to share town updates, recognize community partners and present prizes to the winners of the bingo games. 

Mayor Harris spoke with participants about the positive direction in which the Town of Jonesboro is heading while providing updates on infrastructure improvements and other community initiatives. 

While also taking time to answer questions from attendees, Mayor Harris furthermore expressed heartfelt gratitude to the local businesses who helped make this day extra special by donating gift certificates and other prizes: Walmart, Fine Wine, Kay’s Designs, Mainstreet Nutrition, Brenda Thompson, and The Greene House. Their generosity ensured that each prize carried an added touch of value and appreciation.

“Today was a rewarding reminder that progress is not only about roads, water systems, or infrastructure,” said Mayor Harris. “It’s about the joy we share as a community, the partnerships that strengthen us, and the opportunities we create for connection.”

Mayor Harris also extended thanks to the dedicated staff and volunteers at the Council on Aging and Ezzard “Chucky” Bradford of the Public Works Department for the Town of Jonesboro for their hospitality and continued commitment to serving Jonesboro’s seniors.

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NOTE: On October 4th, the Jackson Parish Sports Hall of Fame will enshrine four new members as the Class of 2025 during their annual Induction Banquet that will be held in the Family Life Center of the First Baptist Church in Jonesboro. Over the last couple of weeks, the Jackson Parish Journal has celebrated their legacy with a special feature on each. Today’s Edition: Amanda Barham

William Shakespeare is credited with the saying, “A jack of all trades is a master of none”. He never knew Amanda Barham. When it came to sports, she was a master in virtually everything she competed in. 

And she competed in everything that Quitman High School had to offer, basketball, softball, and both running and field track events, leading the Lady Wolverines sports program during her high school years to one of their greatest periods of success up to that time. 

Team-wise, by the time she graduated in 1995, Barham had led the girls’ softball team to a district championship and the girls’ track team to three straight district titles and the school’s first-ever girls track and field state championship. 

Individually, her accolades put her in a rare class indeed as being the only female athlete in Jackson Parish history to be twice named as a first team All-State selection in Softball and again in Track and Field, both coming in 1994 and 1995.

Barham is also the only person in Jackson Parish history, male or female, to win a state title for three years in a row in the discus event (1993-95) and for two years straight, claiming titles in the discus and javelin (1994-95). 

To make the incredible feat even more impressive, this was done while both track and softball seasons were going on AT THE SAME TIME. Can you imagine running in a track meet where you threw the javelin and discus in the hot sun all afternoon, and then hurrying back to play softball that evening? Oh, and by the way, winning both events in track and field and starring on the diamond for the Lady Wolverines. 

Barham left Quitman as the school’s all-time home run leader, RBI leader, and batting average leader on the softball team. She left QHS as the Class B state record holder in both the discus and javelin, as well as holding the best mark in the discus in Jackson Parish for 22 years. 

What was Barham’s secret for being so great in so many things? 

In softball, it is kind of understandable. Barham was afforded the opportunity to first play the game at the tender age of 7 years old while living in Natchitoches and learned pretty quickly that she had some serious skills.  

“I was blessed in that playing softball came naturally to me,” said Barham. “And it was just in me that the more success I had, the more I wanted to do even better.” 

But in track? Quitman High School didn’t even have a track on campus then. How in the world did Barham develop into the best discus and javelin thrower in the state?

What Quitman did have in those days was one of the top cross-country programs in the state, regardless of classification, under the guidance of LHSAA Hall of Fame coach Frank Trammel, but that involved running long distances. 

“I wasn’t into running long distances,” laughed Barham. “That was not my cup of tea at all.” 

Barham recalls how she got involved with track and field.

“Coach Trammel came up to me one day and said I have seen you play softball, and you throw the ball really well,” recalled Barham. “I think you could probably do pretty well with a discus, too. I didn’t even know what a discus was, but I thought that might be pretty cool to try it.” 

The only problem was that Coach Trammel was a running expert, meaning she was basically on her own when it came to training and instruction. As it turned out, though she found help at home as  her father Steve had competed in the sport during his “days in the sun.” 

“He was a big help as he knew what I was supposed to do, like the right way to approach, and how to position myself,” said Barham. “He even built me a discus ring in the backyard so I had a place to practice. At school, the track team practiced in the parking lot, and there wasn’t really any place to throw.”

The desire to be the best in softball quickly transferred to her budding discus career, even more so in a way, as this event was more of an individual one. 
“I knew that when throwing the discus, it was all on me,” said Barham. “There was no one else to depend on but me. If I didn’t do well, it was nobody’s fault but my own, so that made me dig even deeper to do better each time.” 

The next year, Javelin became a competitive female sport in girls’ track and field, and as it involved throwing, it was naturally another avenue that she wanted to pursue. 

Even though she basically had to learn all the aspects of throwing the “spear”, on her own, the results were basically the same as Barham won the state in Class B in the Javelin in 1994 and finished as runner-up in 1995. 

When reflecting back on all the time she put into her “trades,” which eventually led her to continue her track and field career at Northwestern State University in Natchitoches, she is quick to give credit to her parents, Steve and Gail Barham. 

“I was blessed to have parents who supported me in every way, from my Mom driving me to practice and events to my Dad spending hours and hours in the backyard practicing with me.” 

Barham also gives Coach Trammel and her teammates credit for helping make all the long hours fun. 

“Coach Trammel was such a great motivator,” reflected Barham. ” And I loved being with my teammates during practices, games, and events. We had a lot of fun, and I still remember those days.”

When asked about what it meant to her to be inducted into the Jackson Parish Sports Hall of Fame, Barham was quick to say that she never imagined that this would happen and that she was honored and humbled to be selected. She also said that she probably would be a little uncomfortable with all the attention that she would get during the ceremony. 

“I never was one that liked being in the spotlight,” laughed Barham. “I always kind of liked staying in the background.” 

The guess here is that just like she has done with all her other endeavors, she will master this as well.

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The excitement is rising as Homecoming 2025 is nearing at Jonesboro-Hodge Middle School, where 22 maids and escorts, including ten from the 8th grade class, from which one male and one female will be selected as King and Queen, will be introduced this Tuesday. 

Leading up to the crowning date, JHMS has been participating in the 2025 HOCO Spirit Week, which began this past Wednesday and will continue through Tuesday, September 30th, with JHMS Spirit Day, where all students are asked to wear red, white, and blue apparel. 

Climaxing the gala event is JHMS hosting Cedar Creek at 5:30 pm on Tuesday, where the maids and escorts will be introduced to the public. 

Representing JHMS from each grade are:

6th Grade Maids and Escorts
• Phaelin Andrews & Jace Jackson
• Lainey Elmore & Caiden Jackson
• Jalyssa Wright & Austin Watkins

7th Grade Maids and Escorts
• JaLonah Amos & Brady Malone
• Callie Calahan & Carter Sanders
• Daliah Qualls & LaCoreyan Lard Jr.

8th Grade Maids and Escorts
• Morgan Aaron & Andrew Watkins III
• Ashlyn Burns & Kyrn Jackson
• Jazzeria Ellis & Cannon Tatum
• Jeniah Mays & Levi Martin
• Timberly Wilson & Demirrio Jones Jr.

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Weston Junior High beat Dodson 46-16 on Friday for their 20th straight win without a loss this season with only two games left to put the finishing touches on a perfect season. Dodson actually trailed by only an 8-7 margin after one period, but Eli Henderson scored all 10 of his points and Leighton Younse added all 12 of his team-high 12 over the next two periods, and WJH held Dodson scoreless in the second and third quarters to win going away.

TEAM	1	2	3	4	FINAL
Weston (20-0)	8	20	15	3	46
Dodson	7	0	0	6	16

Weston 24 Dodson 7 (Girls) – Saniyah Saulsberry scored a new career high of 10 points, and Weston never allowed more than 2 points in a single quarter to take the low-scoring victory. Mallory Malone and Don’Nia Spence added four points each with Kate Keiffer, Brooklyn Keiffer and Laken Borders tallied two points each. 

TEAM	1	2	3	4	FINAL
Weston (12-4)	8	10	6	0	24
Dodson	2	2	1	2	7

This past week, the Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce (JPCC) received monetary donations from Woodmen’s Life Insurance and the Jackson Parish Hospital to help with upcoming endeavors.

On behalf of the JPCC,  Manager Kim Whitman expressed her appreciation to these two organizations by making the following statement. 

“A heartfelt thank you to Jackson Parish Hospital and Woodmen’s Life Insurance for your wonderful donations to the Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce. Your generosity strengthens our community, supports local businesses, and lifts everyone we serve. We are incredibly grateful for your partnership, dedication, and commitment to healthier, thriving families across our parish. Your donation will make a meaningful impact, helping us empower members, fund community initiatives, and grow opportunities for residents and businesses alike. From all of us at the Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce, thank you for standing with us and investing in the future of Jackson Parish. We appreciate you!”

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Bolstered by an offensive explosion that saw the Lady Wolverines score 40 points or more for two consecutive games, the Quitman Junior High beat Simsboro and Choudrant to claim the championship trophy of the Simsboro Tournament this past Thursday and Friday. The victory improved Quitman’s overall record to a sterling 16-3 on the year while in boys competition, the Wolverines won 2 of 3 to even their season slate at 8-8 on the year. 

Quitman 40, Choudrant 24 (Girls Championship) Ella Simonelli scored 14 and Kynleigh Leach added 10 as Quitman won their third straight game in a row and third tourney title of the year. Audrina Martin added 9, Amelia Staggs finished with 4 and Bella Caskey tallied three. 

Quitman 43 Simsboro 35 (Girls) – Three players reached double figures led by 17 from Ella Simonelli. with Kynleigh Leach and Audrina Martin scoring 11 and 10 points respectively. Demie McCurdy added five and Bella Caskey made two free throws. 

Quitman 44 Simsboro 33 (boys) Hayden Seymore poured in 17 points and the Wolverine defense didn’t allow homestanding Simsboro a single point in the first quarter to take a 14-0 lead and never looked back. Conner May added 9, Aiden Reed 8 and both Jaxen Brown and Noah Spillman scored four points each. Mason Thomas added a basket. 

Choudrant 36 Quitman 31 (boys) The Wolverines jumped out to a 15-11 lead after one, but managed just 7 points over the next two quarters  to fall. Hayden Seymore led Quitman with 16 points with Conner May checking in with 9. Noah Spillman finished with four and Aiden Reed hit a basket to round out the scoring. 

Quitman 40 Providence 24 (boys) – Noah Spillman turned in his second-highest scoring of the season with 9 points and Aiden Reed, Hayden Seymore and Conner May all scored 7 each as Quitman jumped out to an early 15-2 lead. Mason Thomas scored 6, and Jaxen Brown added four. 

 

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Students and families, mark your calendars! You are invited to come to the Davidson Athletic Complex, located at 1454 West Alabama Avenue on the campus of Louisiana Tech University, on Tuesday, September 30th, from 5:00–7:00 PM for the Lincoln/Jackson Parish College and Career Fair.

This is a great opportunity to:
✅ Explore career pathways
✅ Meet with colleges, universities, and training programs
✅ Connect with local employers
✅ Learn about opportunities for your future

The Jackson Parish School District encourages all high school students and parents to attend. Don’t miss this chance to plan your path toward success!

To RSVP go to: bulldog@latech.edu

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Jonesboro-Hodge Elementary School (JHES) is partnering with Jonesboro-Hodge High School (JHHS) in the celebration of Homecoming festivities by having a HOCO Spirit Week from Monday, September 29th, through Friday, October 3rd.  

Each day, students will have the opportunity to show their pride by participating in a themed activity as shown below.  

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The annual Youth Basketball League, conducted by the Jackson Parish Recreation Department (JPRD), is now accepting registrations for girls and boys aged 5 to 14 for the upcoming season scheduled to begin on December 6th and run through February 21st. 

The cost to sign up is $53.00 per player until October 3rd, with any registrations coming after that date costing an additional $10..00 per person. Registration can be submitted at the Main Office of the JPRD, located at 5254 Hwy 4 East or by going to the JPRD website listed at http://www.jprec.org. The QR code (shown below) can also be used. For questions or more information call (318) 243-7251. 

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The Weston Junior High Softball Team has released its fall schedule that features 11 playing dates, which include four matchups being played at the new WHS softball field located on the Weston High School campus.

Fans of the junior high Lady Wolves will get to double their pleasure of watching the young ladies compete as a doubleheader will be played each playing date, weather permitting. 

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Reflecting On My Last Squirrel Hunt

The morning of October 3, 2020, dawned cool, clear and calm, a perfect day to begin squirrel season. I rode my 4-wheeler to my favorite woods, parked it, and walked over to a log to sit and wait for daylight.

This is something I have done since I was a kid, being in the woods at first light on opening day of squirrel season. My dad ingrained in me my love for hunting squirrels when I was just a little tyke, following him, watching him, and learning how he did it so that a few years later, I could go out on my own.

This morning, five years ago, was different. Back and leg pain had gotten worse, limiting my mobility, but it was opening day, and I was determined to give it a go. Having already crossed the 80-year threshold a couple of years earlier meant I was experiencing what happens to most guys my age. I still had the want-to; it was the get-it-done thing that was superseding the desire to do as I had done opening day in previous years.

I watched the cool, clear dawn slowly transition into daylight and began scanning the acorn-laden oaks for movement that would indicate that squirrels were ready for breakfast.

As I sat and waited, I remembered opening day in times past when I would be watching the trees as daylight approached. I recalled that first shaking of an oak limb that indicated a squirrel was up and moving, how I would ease up, sneak quietly to within gun range of the feeding squirrel, waiting until it gave me a clear shot before drawing a bead and hitting the trigger.

            If all went according to my plan, I’d watch the squirrel tumble to the ground and feel a real sense of pride – one squirrel spotted, one shot, and one cooling in my game bag.

After the woods quieted down, I’d watch the trees for more movement, and if I saw another on the move, the sequence would be repeated.

If not, I’d carefully and quietly pick my way through the woods to the next grove of hardwoods, keeping my eyes alert for movement and by the end of the hunt, I would hopefully have enough squirrels in my game bag for a squirrel mulligan or enough young ones for a squirrel fry that would beat anything Col. Sanders could do with his fried chicken.

 A favorite thing was to go back to camp, clean the squirrels, select the younger ones to fry alongside a plate of Mary B’s biscuits and homemade gravy. It really doesn’t get much better than that. 

On that morning five years ago, I soon spotted four squirrels moving in the oaks 150 or so yards away across a little drain. In order to get within shooting distance of them, I would have to ease down a slight hill using trees to cover my movements and cross the drain to get close enough.

I started my stalk to head in their direction, and after sneaking a few yards, I stopped and pondered what I would need to do to cover the distance, and I decided to do something I had never done in all my years of squirrel hunting. I turned around, slowly walked back to my 4-wheeler, and left the woods. I never went back.

My final squirrel hunt ended with getting to experience being in the cool, quiet woods one more time, seeing some squirrels, and facing the decision that this sport I love was something I cherished but simply could not do anymore.

I’m okay with that, as I have a storehouse of memories I can rely on when the weather cools down, as opening day in October rolls around.

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FISHING REPORT

CANEY LAKE – Bass are fair at night on soft plastics and dark colored crank baits. Some are caught early morning around the grass on topwater lures with Chatterbaits are picking up some nice ones. Crappie are best around submerged tops in 16-18 foot water with shiners and jigs taking some nice fish. Bream fishing has slowed down. For information contact Caney Lake Landing at 259-6649, Hooks Marina at 249-2347, Terzia Tackle at 278-4498 or the Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707.
BUSSEY BRAKE – The cool front slowed fishing down. Both bass and crappie have been on the slow side.. For latest information, contact the Honey Hole at 323-8707.
OUACHITA RIVER – The water is falling and is quite low because of lock and dam problems down stream. The Prairieon area has been best for bass fishing. A good many catfish are being caught and crappie fishing is best around submerged tops in the river and in the bayou. For latest information, contact the Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707.
LAKE D’ARBONNE – Bass are scattered and suspended with best catches made early mornings on topwaters in the shallows. Soft plastics and crank baits are working best later in deeper water. Crappie are suspended on the flats. Shiners and jigs are picking up some fishing 8 feet deep in 12-14 foot water. Bream are fair. Catfish are good fishing off the banks. For latest information, call Anderson Sport Center at 368-9669 or Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707.
LAKE CLAIBORNE – Crappie fishing has been fair on jigs and shiners suspended over deeper water. Bass are around the banks and hitting topwaters early while later hitting hit spinners and soft plastics in deeper water. Night fishing is fair around lighted piers and boat docks on soft plastics and crank baits. Bream are scattered. For latest information, call Kel’s Cove at 927-2264 or Terzia Tackle at 278-4498.
LAKE POVERTY POINT – Catfish are good while bass and crappie are rather slow. For information, contact the marina at 318/878-0101.
LAKE YUCATAN – The water is falling with lots of catfish being caught. Bass and crappie are fair but the few crappie caught have been real slabs. For info call Surplus City Landing at 318/467-2259.

 

The administration and staff at Weston High School is pleased to announce the winners of the annual Fall Fest poster contest that was held earlier this week among the elementary classes. 

1st – 3rd Grade Winners

1st place – Wilder Myers
2nd place – Kenzie Billman

4th & 5th Grade Winners

1st place –  Zyla Beaubouef
2nd place  – Gabe Gates
3rd place  – Zoey Smith

Congratulations to all the winners and thanks go to all who participated. 

 

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Every Sunday morning, as families shuffle into the sanctuary with coffee in one hand and a diaper bag in the other, a sacred ritual begins—not the liturgy, not the sermon, but the parental chant of the two great commandments for children in church: “Be quiet” and “Don’t run.”

These are not found in Exodus or Deuteronomy, but they are etched into the hearts of every parent who has ever tried to keep a toddler from turning the aisle into a NASCAR track.

Let’s be honest: church with kids is a spiritual workout. You arrive with the best intentions—maybe even dressed in matching outfits—and within five minutes, someone is loudly asking why Jesus doesn’t have a pet dinosaur.

Another is crawling under pews like a Navy SEAL. And you, dear parent, are whisper-yelling, “BE QUIET!” with the intensity of a Broadway performer who’s just missed their cue.

The second commandment, “Don’t run,” is equally vital. It’s not just about safety—it’s about dignity. Nothing tests your humility like chasing your child down the center aisle during the offertory. There’s something about polished church floors that turns every child into Usain Bolt. And while the pastor is preaching about grace, your child is demonstrating velocity.

But here’s the thing: these little rule-breakers are exactly who Jesus was talking about when He said, “Let the little children come to me.” He didn’t say, “Let the well-behaved, silent, non-running children come to me.” He welcomed the squirmy, the curious, the loud, and the sticky-fingered. He knew that children bring life, energy, and a kind of holy chaos that reminds us all what it means to be fully present.

So to the parents who feel like they’re herding cats in the sanctuary—take heart. You are not failing. You are forming. Every whispered correction, every goldfish cracker offered as communion, every coloring book passed down the pew is a seed of faith. You are teaching your children that church is a place they belong, even before they understand why.

And to the church—thank you. Thank you for being a place where children are not just tolerated but treasured. Thank you for the volunteers who smile through crayon murals on hymnals and the ushers who dodge sprinting toddlers with grace. Thank you for understanding that a little noise is a sign of life, not a disruption.

Yes, we’ll keep whispering the commandments: “Be quiet” and “Don’t run.” But we’ll also keep showing up, sticky fingers and all, because we believe that faith is caught more than taught. And sometimes, catching it looks like a child singing off-key, dropping Cheerios in the offering plate, or asking loudly if God likes dinosaurs.

So let the children come. Let them come with their noise, their energy, their questions, and their joy. Let them come running—yes, even down the aisle—because in their chaos, we find a glimpse of heaven.

And in their laughter, we hear the echo of a Savior who said, “Do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.”

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Jonesboro-Hodge Methodist Church invites you to their “Item Sale” from 8:00 – 11:00 am on Saturday, October 4th. Come and be prepared to take advantage of great deals on desks, tables, kitchen items, cutlery, artificial flowers, and various other items.

All items will be inside the church office and Sunday School wing, with proceeds going to local need situations. You are asked to park on the 4th Street side of the church and be prepared to have someone help you move heavy item(s). 

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The Closer I Get

Oh, how I miss snuggling a newborn baby. Contented, infants let me hold them close before they drifted off to sleep. Years have flown and my grandsons tower above me. Now young men; I still hug them and hold them close whenever we’re together.

How close am I to God?

“Come close to God and He will come close to you (James 4:8a NASB).”

Do I unknowingly distance myself?

The closer I get to Him, the more He shapes my character into His image.

“For those whom He foreknew, He also predestined to become conformed to the image of His Son, so that He would be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters (Romans 8:29 NASB).”

Brothers and sisters, do you want a closer walk with Jesus. I know I do.

Just A Closer Walk With Thee
[Author Unknown/Public Domain]

I am weak but thou art strong,
Jesus keep me from all wrong.
I’ll be satisfied as long,
As I walk, let me walk, close with thee.

Just a closer walk with thee;
Grant it, Jesus, this my plea.
Daily walking close with thee;
Let it be, dear Lord, let it be.

Through the world of toils and snares;
If I flatter, Lord, who cares?
Who with me, my burden shares?
None but thee, dear Lord, none but thee.

When my feeble life is o’er,
Time for me will be no more.
Guide me gently, safely home,
To thy kingdom’s shore, to thy shore.

 

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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 the content.

JOB WANTED

Experienced Caregiver available immediately for the provision of safe and compassionate care of your loved one.
Any shift will be considered.
References are available upon request.
Please call Valarie at 281-788-1946

CAREER OPPORTUNITY

The Jackson Parish School District is looking for a dedicated and passionate 2nd Grade Teacher to join the team at Jonesboro-Hodge Elementary School. If you have the skills and enthusiasm to make a difference, we want to hear from you. Apply today through the Jackson Parish School District website at www.jpsb.us or contact the central office at (318) 259 – 4456 for more details.

CAREER OPPORTUNITY

The Jackson Council on Aging announces they are seeking a Nutrition Site Kitchen Aide. Applications will be accepted at the Jackson Council on Aging office located at 120 Polk Ave, Jonesboro, LA 71251 between the hours of 8:00 am -12:00 pm on Monday – Friday.

Key responsibilities are:
Assist in packing and serving meals, snacks, and beverages.
Clean and sanitize the kitchen area and tables, wash dishes and utensils.
Monitor supplies and make sure they are ordered through the Site Manager daily.
Adhere to standards by following all safety, hygiene, and sanitation guidelines.

Educational Requirement: Must have a high school diploma

GARAGE SALE

BUSINESS SERVICES

Dirty South Lawn Care – For all your lawn care, pressure washing, garbage bin sanitation, storm debris cleaning, roof cleaning and much, much, more call (318) 480-1328 or (318) 307 – 6610 for a free quote. Fully Insured. 

PUBLIC NOTICE

Jackson Parish Recreation District

Advertisement to Bidders

Bids will be received at the Jackson Parish Recreation District Office for the following:

One 2020 Ford F-150 Crew-Cab Truck. VIN # 1FTEW1C53LKE09880 Miles 96,763 (Located at JP Recreation Complex) Minimum Bid $20,000

One 2007 Ford F-150 single-cab truck. VIN # 1FTRF12207KC23826 Miles -129,716 (Located at JP Recreation Complex) Minimum Bid $2,500

One 2006 Ford F-250 Single-Cab truck. VIN # 1FTNF20506EB41996 Miles 111,331 (Located at JP Recreation Complex) Minimum Bid $2,000

If you would like to come inspect each item, the location is attached to each product and is open for public inspection—Monday – Friday, 8 am to 4 pm.

The Jackson Parish Recreation District reserves the right to reject ALL Bids.

Sealed bids will be received in the office of the Jackson Parish Recreation District, P.O. Box 315, Jonesboro, Louisiana 71251, by Wednesday, October 8th, 2025 at 11:00 AM, please contact Justin Dodson for more details. All bids will be opened and read aloud. No bids will be accepted after the deadline.

All envelopes must be marked: SEALED BID –Wednesday, October 8th, 2025 (List of what you are bidding on). Bids will be presented for consideration of award or rejection to the Jackson Parish Recreation Board on Wednesday, October 8th, 2025, at 12:00 pm at the Jackson Parish Rec District Meeting Room, 5254 Hwy 4, Jonesboro, Louisiana.

ALL BIDS SHOULD BE IN A SEALED ENVELOPE MARKED JPRD (List items bidding on) 2025.

PUBLIC NOTICE

Village of Chatham
Regular Call Meeting Minutes
September 9, 2025

The Village of Chatham held its regularly scheduled meeting on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at 6:00 pm.
The meeting was called to order and roll call was taken and the following were present: Mayor Gregory Harris, council members Bernadine James and Sue Proffer. Absent Toni Malone
Motion to approve minutes from regular meeting held on August 12, 2025, was made by Bernadine James, seconded by Sue Proffer and approved by all.
Motion to pay monthly bills was made by Sue Proffer and seconded by Bernadine James and approved by all.
Motion to accept financial statements was made by Bernadine James, seconded by Sue Proffer and approved by all.
Motion to adjourn was made by Bernadine James and seconded by Sue Proffer and approved by all.

SHERIFF’S SALE

PARISH OF JACKSON
STATE OF LOUISIANA

FREEDOM MORTGAGE CORPORATION

VS 37804

REGINALD A SAULSBERRY SR A/KIA REGINALD A SAULSBERRY A/KIA REGINALD SAULSBERRY SR A/KIA REGINALD SAULSBERRY & STEPHANIE M SAULSBERRY A/KIA STEPHANIE MICHELLE SAULSBERRY A/KIA STEPHANIE SAULSBERRY A/KIA STEPHANIE MICHELLE LEE A/KIA STEPHANIE M LEE A/K/A STEPHANIE LEE

By virtue of a Writ of Seizure and Sale issued out of the Honorable Second Judicial District Court, Parish of Jackson, State of Louisiana, and to me directed, I have seized and taken into my possession and will offer for sale for cash at the Jackson Parish Sheriff Office, , Jonesboro, Louisiana, on Wednesday, the 29th day of OCTOBER, 2025. Between the hours governing judicial sales, the following property to wit:

BEGINNING AT THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF THE NORTHWEST 1/4 OF THE NORTHWEST 1/4, SECTION 5, TOWNSHIP 17 NORTH, RANGE 2 WEST, AND RUN NORTH ALONG THE SECTION 570 FEET, THENCE RUN EAST 156 FEET, THENCE SOUTH 570 FEET, THENCE WEST 156 FEET BACK TO THE STARTING POINT, LYING AND BEING SITUATED IN THE PARISH OF JACKSON, STATE OF LOUISIANA (“PROPERTY”)

Seized as the property of the above-named defendants and will be sold to satisfy said Writ and all costs, sale to be made for cash WITHOUT the benefit of appraisal.

ANDY BROWN, SHERIFF EX-OFFICIO, AUCTIONEER
09-17-25
10-22-25

The Jackson Parish Police Jury held a Special Meeting on Tuesday, September 23rd in the Nathaniel Zeno Jr. Meeting Room of the Jackson Parish Administrative Building, located at 160 Industrial Drive in Jonesboro. 

Jurors Todd Culpepper, Lewis Chatham, Amy Magee, Sheketia Combs, Tarnashala “Niki” Cowans, Regina Rowe, and Keith Burris held the special session to consider, uphold, and affirm the 2025 tax assessment/tax roll as presented by Jackson Parish Tax Assessor Glen Kirkland. 

Additional business handled by the panel included approving the minutes of the September 22nd Finance Committee Meeting, consider and approve transferring funds (interest) from the Landfill Certificate of Deposit (CD) to the Master Fund and consider and acto on the introduction of a Special Events Ordinance. 

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Registration is now ongoing for the 2025 Miss Christmas in the Pines Beauty Pageant that will be held at 2:00 pm on November 1st at the Jonesboro-Hodge High School Auditorium. Entry forms and fees must be paid by October 1st. 

To register, please bring a $20.00 check/money order made payable to the Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce to the office located at 601 South Cooper Avenue in Jonesboro. The age of entries accepted is from newborn to 18 years old, who will compete in the following divisions:

Infant Miss (newborn – 1 month)
Baby Miss (12-23 months)
Toddler Miss (2-3 years)
Tiny Miss (4-5 years)
Little Miss (6-7 years)
Deb Miss (8-9 years)
Petite Miss (10-11 years)
Junior Miss (12-13 years)
Teen Miss (14-16 years)
Miss Christmas in the Pines (17-18 years) 

Scholarship Opportunity: Miss Christmas in the Pines will receive a $2,000.00 Scholarship toward her education at a higher learning institution upon enrollment within one year of the pageant date and must be present to win. 

People’s Choice Award: Each contestant decorates a box/jar with their photo and division, however they wish. Each dollar that is put in box/jar is equal to a People’s Choice vote. The winner will receive a sash and a crown. 

How to register: Registration forms can be picked up at the Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce or at the school your child attends in Jackson Parish. Entry forms and fees must be turned in by October 1st with Peoples Choice Award box/jars submitted by October 24th. 

Additional Information: An adult may escort Infant Miss, Baby Miss and Toddler Miss across the stage as necessary. There will be a mandatory practice at 5:30 pm on October 30th. It is mandatory for all division winners to participate in the Christmas Parade. 

Contact Information: For more information or questions please contact:
Sandra Plunkett – Pageant Director at (318)259-4456 ext. 2218  / sandraplunkett@jpsbschools.us
Danielle Copeland – Assistant Director at (318) 259-4489 ext. 800 / daniellecopeland@jpsbschools.us
Kim Whitman – Chamber of Commerce Manager at (318) 259 – 4693 / jacksonparishchamber@gmail.com

The pageant would not be possible were it not for the sponsors who have helped make the gala event happen. A huge thanks goes to:
Jackson Parish Bank
Jonesboro State Bank
Sabine Bank
Hodge Bank & Trust
Barksdale Federal Credit Union
People’s Bank
State Farm Insurance
Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce

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NOTE: On October 4th, the Jackson Parish Sports Hall of Fame will enshrine four new members as the Class of 2025 during their annual Induction Banquet that will be held in the Family Life Center of the First Baptist Church in Jonesboro. Over the next couple of weeks, the Jackson Parish Journal will celebrate their legacy with a special feature on each. Today’s Edition: Scott Carter

Before retiring last year, Scott Carter, who graduated from Weston High School in 1980, won 643 games over 37 years as a head baseball coach in Louisiana and Texas. Twenty-seven (27) times Carter led his team to the playoffs, with 16 times entering the postseason as a district champion. Four times his squad made the final four in the state tournament, and three times, including twice in Louisiana and once in Texas, his teams won a state title.  

In 27 of his 34 years on the diamond, Carter ended the season being named as District Coach of the Year. Three times he was voted the state Coach of the Year, earning the designation at Sacred Heart High School (Ville Platte) in Louisiana in 1992 and 1993 after winning Class 2A back-to-back state titles and again in Texas in 2017 after leading Class 5A Port Neches-Grove to the school’s first-ever state championship in baseball. A total of 53 players he coached moved on to play college baseball, and 11 more were drafted by Major League Baseball teams.

Yet none of those gaudy statistics had anything to do with Carter being selected to be inducted into the Jackson Parish Sports Hall of Fame as a member of the Class of 2025, as the by-laws for induction into the local “hallowed hall” are based on what was accomplished while an athlete or coach in Jackson Parish. 

Had Carter never coached a single game, the statistics he compiled while helping Weston High School to a Class C state championship and two runner-up finishes during his five-year playing career were plenty good enough to have him enshrined. 

Carter’s illustrious career at Weston High School began in the 8th grade when after Weston’s All State Catcher, Leaman “Peanut” Stewart, broke his hand catching Class C MVP pitcher Mark Hale, the youthful “backstop” was suddenly thrust into action.

“I was just trying not to get hit by one of his pitches,” reflected Carter laughingly. “he threw the ball so hard that even though I put extra padding in my mitt, I had to soak my hand after every game.”

Despite his youth, Carter was prepared for his opportunity and helped Weston win the state championship in 1977. He credits his father, Sammy Carter, for helping him be ready when his chance came. 

“My dad coached me in Little League from the time I was old enough to play ball,” said Carter. “He taught me how to play the game correctly at an early age, so that when I had my chance in high school, I was ready.” 

By the time Carter was a junior in high school, he had become a most competent catcher, who was not only a stalwart defensively but had developed a cannon arm from behind the dish. More importantly, he had become like a coach on the field. 

“I had a great coach in Mike Staples, who constantly worked with me to understand situations during the game and plan for what could happen,” recalled Carter. “He taught us to think while we were on the field.”

Carter helped Weston be Class C runner-up in 1979 while also earning first team All-District honors as a Catcher and being named to the Class C All-State first team as a Designated Hitter. 

Weston lost to Pineview in the Class C championship game for the second year in a row in 1980, with Carter once again being named first team All-District and earning Class C first team All-State honors, this time as a Catcher after compiling a .441 batting average. 

There is no question over his 37-year career; the “Coach” on the sidelines garnered unquestionably Hall of Fame credentials, but there is also no doubt the “Coach” on the field, as Carter was during his playing days, deserves to be a member of the Class of 2025.

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The Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce invites the public to come to 1691 South Hudson Avenue in Jonesboro at 12:00 pm on Wednesday, September 24th, to help celebrate the official Grand Opening of Simply Vintage Antiques and Marketplace, complete with a traditional ribbon-cutting ceremony. 

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Fresh off their first victory of the season, the Jonesboro-Hodge Tigers look to get a leg up in district play when they travel to Lincoln-Prep in Grambling for their first 1-1A contest of the season. Kick off is set for 7:00 pm. 

JHHS and Lincoln-Prep both enter the contest with 1-2 records after playing teams from District 2-2A last week with JHHS beating Delhi Charter 42-27 and Lincoln Prep  falling to Beekman Charter by a 34-0 score. 

Series Record:  Jonesboro-Hodge holds an all time 10-7 lead in the series that began in 1995 and are 4-1 against Lincoln Prep while under the guidance of Terrance Blankenship, now entering his JHHS school record 13th season at the helm. The lone loss, a 44-8 defeat, came last year during one of Lincoln Prep’s best years in the last decade under Galen Hall, who was replaced this summer by Chauncy Davis, now in his first year as a head coach after years of being an assistant on the L-Prep staff. 

Players to Watch:

Jonesboro-Hodge High School
1. Dakota Knox – The senior exploded for 123 yards on the ground and passed for 65 more last week. Expect Knox to be the focal point of the offense again.
2. Kyron Atkins – Stood out on both sides of the ball and getting better each week. 
3. Dylan Hayes – Displayed rare field vision last week to make several plays behind the line of scrimmage and showing signs of being a disruptive defensive force. 

Lincoln Prep High School
1. Zion Hicks – The 6’3″ senior is a dangerous signal caller with 4 TD’s on the ground and another through the air. 
2. Brysen Slate – The freshman has taken control of the backfield to lead the Panthers in rushing with 259 yards for an 86.3 yards per game average.
3. Joseph Spann – Go to guy on the receiving corp having hauled in 10 passes for 245 yards and a score. 

 

 

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