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.

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 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

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

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

The Jackson Council on Aging is currently conducting a membership drive and invites the public citizens of Jackson Parish to join us. The membership drive begins on September 10, 2025, and will end on September 24, 2025. Membership is free and open to any resident of Jackson Parish over the age of 18. To join, please call and request a membership application from the Jackson Council on Aging office at (318)259-8962.

Jackson Council on Aging annual Membership meeting is scheduled to take place on Thursday, October 2, 2025, at 120 Polk Avenue, Jonesboro, LA 71251.
The meeting is to elect and re-elect Board Members and present the annual report to the Membership at 5:30 pm. All members and participants of the Jackson COA are urged to attend.

PUBLIC NOTICE

Jackson Parish Library Board
Building and Finance Committee Meeting Minutes
August 15, 2025

The Jackson Parish Library Building and Finance Committee met on Friday, August 15, 2025, immediately after the 3:00 p.m. Personnel Committee meeting adjourned (3:45 p.m.) at the Jonesboro Branch of the Jackson Parish Library. The meeting was called to order by the Chair, Mrs. Essmeier. Members present: Mrs. Essmeier, Mrs. Standley, and Mrs. Massey. Also present were Floyd Knox, Judy Robertson, Judy Cooper, and Robin Tew. Members absent: None.
There being no public comments, the Committee proceeded with the proposed agenda.
The Library Director discussed with the committee the personnel changes that were recommended by the Personnel Committee and presented a proposed salary schedule.
Mrs. Standley made the motion to recommend approval of the updated pay schedule as presented. Mrs. Massey seconded. Roll call vote: Massey: Yea; Standley: Yea; Essmeier: Nay. Motion carried.
The Director discussed the possibility of adding the Emergency door project for the Jonesboro branch as a project to be done in 2026. The Director will present quotes for the project at the January or April meeting. Mrs. Massey made the motion to add emergency doors and sidewalks to our projects for 2026. Ms. Standley seconded. All yes. Motion carried.
The Director presented amendments to the 2025 budget along with the 2026 budget.
Mrs. Standley made the motion to recommend approval of the 2026 and amended 2025 budget with a few discussed changes. Mrs. Massey seconded. All yes. Motion carried.
Mrs. Massey made the motion to adjourn the meeting. Mrs. Essmeier seconded. All yes. Motion carried.
Mrs. Paula Essmeier, Committee Chair
Mr. Floyd Knox, Secretary

PUBLIC NOTICE

Jackson Parish School  Board Meeting Minutes
September 15, 2025

The Jackson Parish School Board met in a regular scheduled meeting at 11:00 a.m. on September 15, 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, Calvin Waggoner and Dennis Clary.
Absent: None
Rick Barlow gave the Invocation.
Wade McBride 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 August 4, 2025.
A motion was made by Paulette Belton, seconded by Wade McBride and carried to approve the Pupil Progression Plan for the 2025-2026 school year.
A motion was made by Mary Saulters, seconded by Wade McBride and carried to approve the 2025-2026 General Fund and Special Revenue Budgets.
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 Dennis Clary, seconded by Ric 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 Paulette Belton seconded by Dennis Clary and carried approving payment to Outdoor Wilderness Learning Center in the amount of $13,200.00 for Jonesboro Hodge High School, Jonesboro Hodge Middle School and Quitman High School LEAP Connect classes to attend eight (8) weeks of Therapeutic Horseback Riding and Horsemanship classes, to be paid from IDEA funds.
A motion was made by Wade McBride, seconded by Dennis Clary and carried approving payment to CEV Multimedia, LLC in the amount of $15,800.00 for annual licenses for all CTE courses at Jonesboro Hodge High School, Quitman High School and Weston High School, to be paid from Career Development funds.
A motion was made by Paulette Belton, seconded by Dennis Clary and carried approving the hiring of a contract Speech Therapist (not to exceed 20 hours per week) at a rate of $95.00 per hour and a Facilitator (Sub pay), to be paid out of General Fund.
A motion was made by Rick Barlow, seconded by Wade McBride and carried approving payment of $11,839.99 to 3B Outdoor Equipment for the purchase of a Lazer Z S-Series 25.5 HP lawn mower, to be paid from Parish Wide District funds.
A motion was made by Wade McBride, seconded by Dennis Clary and carried approving payment of $39,235.00 to CDW-G for the renewal of GoGuardian Subscription License for one (1) year, to be paid from the Education Excellence Fund (EEF).
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 Dennis Clary, seconded by Mary Saulters and carried accepting low quote of $12,500.00 from Hot2Cold Heating, A/C & Electrical, LLC for materials and labor to install Ruud 7.5 ton Split System HVAC in Boys Gym Locker Room at Jonesboro Hodge High School, to be paid from Jonesboro Hodge District funds.
A motion was made by Paulette Belton, seconded by Rick Barlow and carried accepting low quote of $12,551.00 from Rainey Electronics, Inc. for two (2) Fair-Play 1660 Series LED Basketball Scoreboards for Jonesboro Hodge High School, to be paid by Jonesboro State Bank.
A motion was made by Mary Saulters, seconded by Rick Barlow and carried accepting low quote of $12,924.00 from Rainey Electronics, Inc. for one (1) Fair-Play BA 7120 Baseball Scoreboard for Jonesboro Hodge High School, to be paid by Jonesboro State Bank.
Rick Barlow reported to the Board on the meeting of the Transportation Committee.
A motion was made by Mary Saulters, seconded by Rick Barlow and carried approving out of state travel for Quitman High School FFA, Nursery and Landscape CDE team and Marty Cantrell, Advisor to travel to the National FFA Convention in Indianapolis, Indiana from October 27-November 1, 2025. The Jackson Parish School Board will reimburse for expenses according to policy IFCB – Field Trips and Excursions.
Paulette Belton reported to the Board on the meeting of the Policy Committee.
A motion was made by Dennis Clary, seconded by Rick Barlow and carried approving to revise the following policies:
• JCDAE – Electronic Telecommunication Devices for Students
• IFA – Instructional Materials
• IFBGA – Student Computer Access and Use
• JBD – Student Absences and Excuses
• JCDAF – Bullying and Hazing
• JGCE – Child Abuse
• JDE – Expulsion
A motion was made by Mary Saulters, seconded by Rick Barlow and carried to adjourn at 11:25 a.m..

Richard Lavelle Pool
April 3, 1945 – September 14, 2025

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Richard Lavelle Pool, age 80, of Eros, Louisiana, passed away peacefully at his residence on Sunday, September 14, 2025. Richard was a simple man who found joy in life’s everyday blessings. He loved mowing grass, hunting, and fishing, and was well known for making the best pork sausage. A generous soul, he shared firewood and vegetables from his garden with much of Jackson Parish. Richard also loved to sing a cappella at church and cherished the companionship of his beloved dog, “Pork Chop.”

Richard is survived by his wife of 57 years, Charlotte (Taylor) Pool; children, Stephanie Hunt (Mike), Henry “Bo” Pool (Lisa), Danielle Roark and Brandy Pool; bonus daughter, Donna Ferguson (James); grandchildren, Justin Roark, Taylor Chestnut (Chance), Camden Mire, Jace Sheldon, Meagan Burnaman (Brad) and Hayden Mire; 2 great-grandchildren and one on the way, and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, O.W. Pool; mother, Letha Vivian (Thompson) Pool; and numerous brothers and sisters.

A graveside service was held on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at Salem Cemetery in Eros, Louisiana. Burial followed under the direction of Southern-Edmonds Funeral Home of Jonesboro, Louisiana. A celebration of life took place at Caney Lake Baptist Church near Weston, Louisiana, immediately following the graveside service.

Serving as pallbearers were Justin Pool, Camden Mire, Chance Chestnut, Justin Roark, James Ferguson, and Chris Parker. Honorary pallbearers was Lavelle “Bo” Pool and Cayle Guillory.

Paul E. Gresham
February 16, 1937 – September 13, 2025

Funeral services for Paul E. Gresham, age 88 of Quitman, LA, was held on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at Sweetwater Baptist Church with Bro. Stuart Toms and Dr. Wilton Wall officiating. Interment followed in Sweetwater Baptist Church Cemetery in Quitman, LA, under the direction of Owens Memorial Chapel Funeral Home of Ruston, LA.

Paul, known as Bobby, Red, and his favorite, Poppy, to his family and friends, was born February 16, 1937, in Quitman, LA, and passed away Saturday, September 13, 2025, at his home in Quitman, LA. Paul accepted Jesus as his Lord and Savior in 1957 at Sweetwater Baptist Church, where he was ordained as a deacon in 1968 and served faithfully until his health prevented him from doing so. He retired after 39 years of working at Smurfit Stone in Hodge, LA. After his retirement, Paul was able to fully devote his time to his love for cattle ranching (he never met a cow he did not like), vegetable gardening, and raising the most beautiful roses. Paul loved to have family and friends come and fish his catfish pond, and he loved to share with others what God had blessed him with.

Paul was preceded in death by his first wife, Yvonne Alexander Gresham; parents, Arch Gresham and Mary (May) Gresham Diffey; brothers, J.D. Gresham and Joseph Edward Gresham; sisters, Bessie Gresham and Shirley Gresham; and his niece, Janie Coats.

Paul is survived by his wife of 27 years, CoyNell; daughters: Renee and husband Gilbert Pickens, Pamela and husband Tim Buckelew, Paula and husband Rodney Thomas, Melanie and husband Wesley Crawford, and Crystal and husband Stacy Stewart; grandchildren: Emily and husband Steve Gatlin, Suzanna and husband Shane Burris, Morgan and husband Daniel Dison, Tanner Buckelew, Jason Brown and wife Melissa, Carrie Brown, Nicholas Brown and wife Kele, Kandi Crawford, Ashley and husband Cole Britt, Lydia Crawford, Haley Stewart, Emma Stewart, and Lindsay Stewart; great-grandchildren: Ellie Burris, Mollie Burris, Hadley Gatlin, Brooks Dison, Evangeline Dison, Bodie Dison, Henley Buckelew, Granger Brown, and Beckham Brown; sister, Charlotte Geter; nephew, Keith Geter; niece, Judy and husband Jerry Miller; and a host of friends.

Serving as pallbearers were Jason Brown, Nicholas Brown, Tanner Buckelew, Steve Gatlin, Shane Burris, and Daniel Dison. Honorary pallbearers are the Deacons of Sweetwater Baptist Church.

The Jackson Parish Hospital is thrilled to announce that a monumental moment in the facility’s history has taken place with the completion of Phase One of the emergency room upgrade project and the opening of the new Emergency Department.

After months of construction, CEO John Morgan received official approval to open the new ER Department from the Louisiana Department of Health on September 9th, marking the start of a new chapter in advancing emergency care. 

“This is more than an opening; it’s a celebration of progress, teamwork, and the unwavering commitment to the people we serve. We look forward to beginning this exciting new chapter and continuing to provide exceptional care to you, your loved ones, and our entire community.” – CEO John Morgan

Visitor Entry & Exit Information:
Both the ER Entrance and Exit are located on Beech Springs Road.
A banner with arrows will guide vehicles to the ER entrance, and the exit is marked with roadside signage.
The drop-off area is designed for one-way traffic flow from the entrance to the parking lot and/or exit.
The former Watts Street entrance will be closed and blocked off to allow Phase 2 of construction to begin.

Jackson Parish Emergency Department Photos

 

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The Jackson Parish Clerk of Court Office reminds those who received a Petit Jury Duty summons for Monday, September 15th, MUST APPEAR. You are instructed to report by 9:30 am to the second floor of the Jackson Parish Courthouse unless you have previously contacted court officials and received permission to be excused. 

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A brand new scoreboard, compliments of Jonesboro State Bank / Pledge 10, was in place at Caldwell-Peacock Stadium for the Jonesboro-Hodge Tigers home opener of the 2025 football season. 

The good news is that everything worked fine. The bad news was that it was visiting West Ouachita that lit it up in historic fashion as the Tigers fell by a 62-13 margin to drop to 0-2 on the season while West Ouachita improved to 1-1 for the year.

The point total scored by the visiting Class 4A team represents the fifth-most points that the Tigers have given up in their history and the most points that West Ouachita has ever scored. 

It was the first three minutes of each half that were eerily comparable which was the difference. West Ouachita opened the scoring by running for a 53-yard score on their second play from scrimmage. On the ensuing kickoff the Tigers fumbled and West Ouachita scooped it up for a 40 yard score. Then West Ouachita forced JHHS to punt, and the Chiefs scored again in three plays to go up 20-0. 

JHHS managed to make the game 28-7 at the start of the second quarter when King Campbell found JaMarlon Johnson for a touchdown pass and then as time ran out in the half hit Victor Johnson for a 25 yard score to make it 35-13 at the half. 

The second half began much like the first as West Ouachita rambled 52 yards for a score on their second play from scrimmage and then forced a fumble on the ensuing kickoff that resulted in another quick score after a short five play drive. After a Tiger punt the Chiefs scored again in one play on their first pass of the game putting JH in a 55-13 hole. 

Despite the lopsided loss, JHHS head coach Terrance Blankenship remained optimistic about the Tigers’ fortunes the rest of the way.

“Give credit to West Ouachita and Coach Mike Rainwater on what they are doing,” said Blankenship. “They really took it to us but we were our own worst enemy. I still believe that if we can get focused and shore up the missing assignments and quit making critical mental errors, we can be a good team. We are going to get back to work on Monday and get ready for next week.” 

The Tigers host Delhi Charter on Friday, September 13th, looking to regain their confidence against the team they beat in the season-opening Bayou Jamb. Kick off is set for 7:00 pm.

Tiger fans can purchase tickets to the contest by downloading the HudlFan App or for those not able to make it to the game, can stream the game at the same location. You can also listen to the game broadcast on radio at TheRoux102, found at 102.3 FM on your radio dial or by downloading the Roux102 App.

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TEAM	1	2	3	4	FINAL
Jonesboro-Hodge (0-2)	0	13	0	0	13
West Ouachita (1-1)	28	7	20	7	62

The Jackson Parish School Board will hold their regularly scheduled monthly meeting at 11:00 am on Monday, September 25th in the Conference Room of the Jackson Parish School District Central Office located at 315 Pershing Hwy. 

Prior to the session, a Public Meeting will be held at 10:15 am where the School Board will discuss the opening of the 2025-26 General Fund and Special Revenue Budgets. Immediately following, the Transportation, Building and Grounds, Executive Finance and Policy Committees will have meetings to discuss recommendations to be acted on during the main meeting.

Jackson Parish School Board Meeting Agenda

1. Invocation– Rick Barlow
2. Pledge of Allegiance – Wade McBride
3. Call to Order
4. Consider approving the minutes as presented from the Regular Scheduled meeting held on
August 4, 2025.
5. Consider approving the Pupil Progression Plan for the 2025-2026 school year.
6. Consider approving the 2025-2026 General Fund and Special Revenue Budgets.
7. Consider adopting items per the Committee Reports attached hereto.
8. Superintendent’s Comments
9. Adjourn

In accordance with the Americans Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance, please contact William Carter at 318-259-4456 describing the assistance that is necessary.

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The varsity girls and boys cross country teams from Quitman High School took part in one of the larger cross country meets of the year, running in what has been dubbed as “The Border Dash” held in Bossier City. 

The Lady Wolverines finished in 11th place among the 27 schools from Louisiana, Texas, Arkansas and Mississippi that participated with Megan Kelley coming in 15th place out of 149 girls that ran over the 3-mile course. 

Only three members of the boys team were unable to attend, which resulted in QHS not having enough to qualify for team points but Gage Horton led the Wolverines with a 49th-place finish out of the 249-man field. 

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Quitman Junior High / Elementary at Chieftan Invitational 2025

The Quitman Junior High and Elementary cross country runners were also in action on Friday as part of 41 schools from Louisiana and Mississippi who took part in the 2025 Chieftain Invitational in Calhoun, LA. 

Top finishers in each division are as follows.

Grade K-2 Boys: Kreed Delaughter – 8th Place
Grade K-2 Girls: Lennyn Jo Rogers – 5th Place
Grade 3-4 Boys: Cole Burton – 26th place
Grade 3-4 Girls: Madilyn Spillman – 17th place
Grade 5-6 Boys: Clay Burton – 6th Place
Grade 5-6 Girls: Anslea McGee – 22nd Place
Grade 7-8 Boys: Lincoln Robertson – 86th Place
Grade 7-8 Girls: Audrina Martin – 11th Place

The Jackson Parish Clerk of Court Office announces that time is running out to sign up for the yearly General Commissioner School that provides course instruction and certifies an individual to become a poll worker for elections. 

The school, which will be held in the multi-purpose room of the Jackson Parish Library main branch, located at 614 South Polk Avenue in Jonesboro, will take place at 5:00 pm on Thursday, September 25th. 

The class is for new people who wish to be certified. If you came to the class last August or September of 2024, you do not need to attend this class. 

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It is a great way to promote your business and organization while at the same time showing your support for the Jonesboro-Hodge High School football team.

JHHS is holding a fundraiser for the Tiger football team through the offering of ads in the game program, which is a tremendous way to follow the game by identifying the players by their numbers as they make plays during the game.

Ad prices are as follows:

$100.00 – Full page Ad
$50.00 – Half-page Ad
$25.00 – 1/4 page Ad

To purchase an ad or for more information, click here or contact Jonesboro-Hodge High School at (318) 259-2701.

 

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The Ladies of the Lake and Caney Lake Community Foundation paid homage to all the ones who keep area residents safe when they served lunch to the Jackson Parish First Responders on Thursday, September 11th. 

On behalf of the First Responders from Jackson Parish, a hearty thank you to the Ladies of the Lake and the Caney Lake Community Foundation for their consideration. 

Jackson Parish First Responder Luncheon

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The administration, faculty and staff are pleased to introduce the 2025-26 Homecoming Court consisting of 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.

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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Set your calendars to come to the Main Branch of the Jackson Parish Library, located at 614 South Polk Avenue in Jonesboro, on Friday and/or Saturday (Sept. 19-20) to take the opportunity to see the beautiful creations presented by the Heritage Quilt Guild of Jonesboro. 

While there, make sure to register for two baskets that will be given away, each carrying a $75.00 value in merchandise. One basket is full of kitchen goodies while the other contains spa treats. 

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NATCHITOCHES – Recent Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame inductee Sylvia Fowles, NFL stars Joe Horn, Todd McClure and Pat Williams, Major League Baseball All-Star Jonathan Lucroy and legendary basketball coaches John Brady, Mike McConathy and Dewain Strother make up a star-studded eight-member group of competitors’ ballot inductees chosen for 2026 induction in the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame.

Additionally, for the third time this decade, the Hall will present the Louisiana Sports Ambassador Award, this time to Warren Morris, the Alexandria native and resident whose walk-off home run won the 1996 College World Series for LSU, resulting in the Bolton High School product becoming a lifelong spokesman for college baseball, the CWS and LSU.

The LSHOF Class of 2026 is headed by Fowles, a four-time USA Olympic gold medalist (2008, 2012, 2016, 2020) who helped LSU to four consecutive Final Fours from 2005-08. She was an eight-time WNBA All-Star in a 15-season pro career that included WNBA Finals MVP honors as she led the Minnesota Lynx to league crowns in 2015 and 2017. Fowles was chosen as one of the WNBA’s Top 25 Players of All-Time in 2021 and entered the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame last weekend and the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame in June.

Horn was a four-time Pro Bowl receiver (2000-02, 2004) and fan favorite in seven seasons (2000-06) with the New Orleans Saints in a 12-year NFL career. McClure, a Baton Rouge native and two-sport All-Stater at Central High School, was an All-Southeastern Conference and All-America center for LSU before 14 NFL seasons, all in Atlanta, that earned him a place in the Falcons Ring of Honor. Williams, a defensive tackle from Wossman High School in his hometown of Monroe, reached three straight Pro Bowls (2006-08) while with the Minnesota Vikings in a 14-season career that started with the Buffalo Bills.

Lucroy starred for three years at catcher for Louisiana’s Ragin’ Cajuns and was a third-round 2007 MLB Draft pick by Milwaukee, where he earned a pair of American League All-Star Game appearances (2014, 2016) and was fourth in voting for the 2014 AL Most Valuable Player award as pinnacles of a 12-year big league career.

Brady won 402 games in 25 seasons of college basketball coaching at Samford, LSU and Arkansas State, with 190 victories in 10 seasons with the Tigers including three SEC regular-season championships (2000, 2005, 2006) and a run to the 2006 NCAA Final Four. That year’s March Madness was also a career highlight for Bossier City native McConathy, whose 14th seeded Demons stunned No. 3 seed and Big Ten Conference champion Iowa in one of three NCAA tourney trips (two wins) for NSU. The former Louisiana Tech star guard won a state-record 682 games as a college coach in 16 seasons at Bossier Parish Community College and 23 at Northwestern.

Strother is the nation’s second-winningest high school girls basketball coach, retiring in 2023 with a 1,235-395 (.758) record that includes 21 trips to the state semifinals and 11 championship game appearances, collecting five LHSAA titles for Florien High in southern Sabine Parish.

The new class will be enshrined next June 25-27 at the Hall of Fame’s home in Natchitoches to culminate the 67th Induction Celebration. Ticket information for the seven events over three days of festivities is available at the LaSportsHall.com website.

A 40-member Louisiana Sports Writers Association committee selected the 2026 inductees completing a three-week process. The panel considered 153 nominees from 27 different sport categories on a 34-page competitors ballot, with 61 reaching the final phase of deliberations.

Also spotlighted next summer will be three other Hall of Fame inductees from the contributors categories: a winner of the 2026 Dave Dixon Louisiana Sports Leadership Award and two recipients of the 2026 Distinguished Service Award in Sports Journalism presented by the Louisiana Sports Writers Association, the parent organization of the Hall of Fame. Those inductees will be selected and announced later this year.

The complete 12-person Class of 2026 will swell the overall membership in the Hall of Fame to 515 men and women – athletes, coaches, administrators and sports media members — honored since its founding in 1958.

The 2026 Induction Class will be showcased in the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame and Northwest Louisiana History Museum. The facility is operated by the Louisiana State Museum system in a partnership with the Louisiana Sports Writers Association.

The striking two-story, 27,500-square foot structure faces Cane River Lake in the National Historic Landmark District of Natchitoches and has garnered worldwide architectural acclaim and rave reviews for its contents since its grand opening during the 2013 Hall of Fame induction weekend.

The new competitive ballot inductees will raise the total of Hall of Fame members to 402 athletes and coaches honored since the first induction class — Baseball Hall of Famer Mel Ott, world champion boxer Tony Canzoneri and LSU football great Gaynell Tinsley — was enshrined in 1959 after their election a year earlier.

The Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame already includes 25 Pro Football Hall of Fame members, 18 Olympic medalists (including 11 gold-medal winners), 14 members of the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, seven of the NBA’s 75 Greatest Players, seven National Baseball Hall of Fame inductees, 45 College Football Hall of Fame members, 11 Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame inductees, 10 Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame enshrinees, 10 College Baseball Hall of Fame inductees, nine National High School Hall of Fame members, five National Museum of (Thoroughbred) Racing and Hall of Fame inductees. The LSHOF showcases jockeys with a combined 16 Triple Crown victories, six world boxing champions, four NBA Finals MVPs, four winners of major professional golf championships, and five quarterbacks with a combined seven Super Bowl MVP awards.

Biographical information on all current Hall of Fame members is available at the LaSportsHall.com website, and a steady stream of info is available at the @LaSportsHall X (formerly Twitter) account.

The 2026 Induction Celebration will kick off with a press conference and reception. The three-day festivities include two receptions, a free youth sports clinic, a bowling party, and a free riverbank concert in Natchitoches. Tickets for induction events, along with congratulatory advertising and sponsorship opportunities, are available through the LaSportsHall.com website.

Anyone can receive quarterly e-mails about the 2026 Induction Celebration and other Hall of Fame news by signing up on the LaSportsHall.com website.

Also on the website, anyone can join the Hall of Fame Team, which provides members with exclusive content and priority access while generating financial support for the Hall of Fame museum.

The 2026 Induction Celebration will be hosted by the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Foundation, the support organization for the Hall of Fame. The LSHOF Foundation was established as a 501 (c) (3) non-profit entity in 1975 and is governed by a statewide board of directors. For information on sponsorship opportunities, contact Foundation President/CEO Ronnie Rantz at 225-802-6040 or RonnieRantz@LaSportsHall.com, or Foundation Director of Business Development and Public Relations Greg Burke at 318-663-5459 or GregBurke@LaSportsHall.com, or by calling the Foundation office at 318-238-4255 (HALL). Standard and customized sponsorships are available.

Online ticketing and event information for the 2026 Induction Celebration is available at this link: www.LaSportsHall.com/Induction2026

 

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Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce Director Kim Whitman is asking for support from the community through the donation of medium to large hay bales for an upcoming event. 

Hay bales should be delivered by Monday, September 15th, to the Pocket Park in Jonesboro. Donors will be honored by being featured on the JPCC Facebook page. For more information, call (318) 514-9496 or send a message.

“We want to have our town decorated pretty for fall,” said Whitman. “We also take donations by bringing them to the chambers office. If no one is there, leave your donation in the mailbox. Thank you all in advance.”

 

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Local junior high basketball fans are in for a real treat early this week as all three of the junior high teams in Jackson Parish and nearby Saline will be in action against each other, as JHMS will take on Weston Junior High on Monday and Saline will come to Quitman on Tuesday. 

The JHMS girls and boys will be looking for their first win in only their second game of the season while the Weston girls bring a 6-3 record to the tilt and the Wolves continue to remain undefeated at 12-0 after both took wins in the Claiborne Christian Round Robin Tournament on Thursday. 

Quitman also grabbed a pair of wins on Friday by taking down the tournament host in both the girls and boys contests. The victories gave the girls team a 9-2 record while the boys improved to 4-5. 

 

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The Jonesboro-Hodge High School Apparel Store is open once again and has been updated with the 2025 Homecoming shirt (shown in banner above). All school spirit shirts are also still available in the store.

Remember that all purchases must be made through the store and that proceeds from purchases made in the store benefit the Jonesboro-Hodge High School student body.

The store will close on Monday, September 22. If you have any questions, please contact Assistant Principal Kristopher Cash. Thank you all in advance.

Please follow the link below to purchase any of the items available
https://jonesboro-hodge-high-school.square.site

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The Quitman High School Softball and Golf teams held their annual fundraiser tournament on Saturday at the Jackson Parish Golf Course (JPGC) with Peyton Mitchell and Dwayne “Snook” Harrel winning first place in the championship flight. 

The local members of the JPGC shot a round of 14-under par (58) over holes to claim the title. Pete Simonelli and Eli Walker was one shot back at 13-under par (59). QHS baseball coach Chris Womack and son Cason won the first flight with a 2-under par score of 70.

“We appreciate all the ones who turned out to support our programs,” said QHS softball coach Justin Dodson. “The funds raised will be very beneficial in helping to defray the costs of the upcoming seasons.”

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On Thursday, September 11th, J-HES provided a Miles for Smiles Mobile Dental Visit under the care of Dr. Amsale Derese, DDS. The Miles for Smiles Team of Shreveport was able to serve over twenty students. The visit included cleanings, x-rays, fluoride treatments, and fillings (as needed). Each student also received a Dental Report Card, including follow-up recommendations, and was able to return right back to class! The school will receive a School Dental Report Card in the coming weeks.

Special thanks to the Living Well Foundation (LWF) for making this possible. As previously published, JHES was awarded a competitive grant in the amount of $6,000 dollars.

The Living Well Foundation is a public non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the health, wellness, and quality of life in northeast Louisiana. Founded in 2006, the Living Well Foundation serves the residents of Caldwell, Franklin, Jackson, Lincoln, Morehouse, Ouachita, Richland, and Union Parishes.

For more information about the Foundation, visit www.livingwellfoundation.net.

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We are in the middle of remodeling our children’s ministry space at Trinity Methodist Church. Part of that project was finding a place for our Mother’s Day Out program and pre-school to meet. We are space sharing, but for this article you need to know the preschool kids are on the floor directly above the church offices. Now I have set the stage.

It’s 7:45 a.m. on a Tuesday, and the church parking lot is already a battleground. Not of spiritual warfare, mind you—but of minivans versus ministry.
On one side: daycare parents, armed with coffee, diaper bags, and toddlers who believe pants are optional. Their mission? Drop off their little cherubs before the morning meltdown begins.

On the other: the church staff, clutching devotionals and half-eaten granola bars, praying for a parking spot close enough to avoid the Louisiana humidity turning their hair into a theological metaphor for chaos.

The moment the daycare opens its doors, a holy stampede begins. Parents circle the lot like Israelites around Jericho, hoping the walls of occupied parking spaces will miraculously fall. Meanwhile, the youth pastor, who arrived early to prep for Bible study, is boxed in by a double-parked SUV with a “Jesus Loves Me” bumper sticker and a rogue juice box under the tire.

The church secretary—who has seen things—keeps a running tally of passive-aggressive notes left on windshields. Last week’s favorite: “Thou shalt not park in the staff spot. Exodus 20:15.”

The senior pastor, ever the peacemaker, suggested a “Parking Lot Reconciliation Ministry.” It lasted one week. After a parent tried to cast out the spirit of tardiness from a staff member’s Honda Civic, the ministry was quietly retired.

Some staff have resorted to spiritual warfare. One youth intern reportedly anointed his parking spot with oil. It was later discovered to be Chick-fil-A sauce.

Despite the chaos, there’s beauty in the madness. Parents and staff share stories, swap prayer requests, and occasionally rescue each other from rogue tricycles. The parking lot, it turns out, is more than asphalt—it’s a place of community, laughter, and the occasional sanctified fender bender.

So next time you find yourself circling the lot, remember blessed are the peacemakers… and those who arrive before 7:30.

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Historically, it was always one of the favorite classes that students at Jonesboro-Hodge High School enjoyed. Now, after several years of being non-existent, it is back again. The administration and staff of JHHS is pleased to announce that Welding classes are once again being offered under the direction of Mr. Jessie Parks. 

As one person who requested to remain unidentified said, “I think it is great that the school is giving these kids an opportunity to earn a trade that can turn into a career opportunity. Not everyone goes to college and I think it is the responsibility of schools to gear young people up for all types of jobs after they graduate.”

 

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Sterling Harrell, Area Archery Pioneer

Archery season for deer begins in less than a month. It seems fitting that we shine the spotlight once again on Sterling Harrell, a man who pioneered bow hunting in our part of the country.

Pine Bluff, AR native Ben Pearson, was a pioneer and innovator when it came to promoting the sport of archery way back when. Pearson started the first company in the U.S. to mass-produce archery sets and equipment which ultimately led him to be inducted into the Archery Hall of Fame.

The company Pearson started would eventually be sold to a large corporation and by 1988 had 360 employees with an annual payroll of $100 million…..big time stuff.
There was another archery aficionado who became not only a fan of Pearson but a trusted friend.

His name was Sterling Harrell and he lived in Ruston. When Harrell passed away in 1995 at the age of 71, he had engaged the assistance of Pearson in a number of projects in Louisiana, the most notable of which was to try and convince the LA Wildlife and Fisheries Commission to start a new program for hunters in Louisiana. When bow hunters climb into their stands in a few short weeks, they have Harrell to thank for his part in our state having an archery season for deer.

An internet search of Harrell’s name reveals some fascinating and interesting information. For one, the search revealed a tribute to Harrell by associates of Pearson in Pine Bluff. Watching the tribute, I learned that Harrell would often take busloads of kids to visit Pearson in Arkansas and later was instrumental in implementing a successful archery program at LA Tech in 1960. Harrell was affectionately referred to in the tribute as “Mister Longbow”.

In order to gather more information on this area’s pioneer in archery, I visited with Harrell’s son, Van, who shared memories of growing up with a father consumed with the love for shooting a long bow.

“Before moving to Ruston, we lived in Shreveport in a heavily populated neighborhood but there was a golf course just down the street and dad would take us down there shoot our bows,” said Harrell.

“After moving to Ruston in the 1950s, dad organized a group of youngsters and taught them how to shoot bows. They’d go out once a week and he’d let them pop balloons and other targets. Ben Pearson came down and helped him develop an archery range out on the east side of Ruston out past Woodland Park,” he said.

During my internet search, I found a fascinating clip of Sterling Harrell doing something he became known for around the area, “trick” shooting with his bow. He would roll discs out in front of him and would put and arrow through them as they rolled and incredibly, he would often shoot the rolling discs while holding he bow behind his back. Remarkable skills the man had.

However, Sterling Harrell was not perfect. I once stopped by his home for an interview and he invited me to shoot a long bow, something I had never done. He strapped the guard on my arm to protect me from injury when releasing the bow. However, he strapped it on the wrong arm – I didn’t know the difference – and when I shot, all the hide was peeled off my arm from elbow to wrist. A red faced Sterling apologized.

When I visited Ruston’s new 3-D archery range at Lincoln Parish Park recently, my thoughts were on my friend Sterling Harrell and the impact he had on scores of kids, many of whom are now grandfathers who are likely to visit the new archery range.

Had such a range been available when he was still alive, there is no doubt that Harrell would be one of the first to give the new range a try. Thanks to Sterling Harrell for instilling the love for shooting bows and arrows to so many who are active archers today.

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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 Jackson Parish Retired Teachers’ Association conducted its quarterly meeting on August 19, 2025, at the Jackson Parish Library. The guest speaker, Mr. William “Billy” Carter, who is the new Superintendent of Jackson Parish Schools, expressed his gratefulness for the opportunity to serve the parish as superintendent.

He also shared his childhood memories growing up in Winn Parish and other areas of the United States before eventually making his home in Jackson Parish where he became a teacher, coach, assistant principal, and principal at Quitman High School.

One of my goals, Mr. Carter stated, “is to promote unity and collaboration within the five schools in the district.”

Ms. Irene Jones, President of the JPRTA, encourages all retired educators to join the state and local chapters. If you are an educator and interested in joining, contact Ms. Jones at (318) 475-5517. The next meeting will be held on November 18, 2025.

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Gospel in a Nutshell

John 3:16 has been described as the Gospel in a nutshell.

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” (KJV)

That is indeed Gospel. That’s good news to share.

We were members of Sterling Avenue Baptist Church in San Bernardino back in the late 1970’s. Our church pastor was evangelistic Jim Nelson. I credit him for my appreciation of the writings of Charles Spurgeon. Brother Jim had the full set of sermons by the ‘Prince of Preachers’ in his library and he loaned me some of those books. I readily recall something else special about our pastor.

He sent church members out to knock on doors. We shared Gospel scripture. Not many churches today have regularly scheduled prospect visitation. Everyone is busy and we don’t want to intrude in a person’s home-life. Yet, Gospel truth is needed for all now; just as much as then. Maybe scripture we shared isn’t the Gospel in a nutshell. Then again, maybe it is.

The following scripture passage seems to ring a bell. It just could be what we shared.

“For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures;

And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures (1 Corinthians 15:3-4 KJV).”

I just love the repetitive according to the scriptures.

Jesus Christ died for our sins; he was crucified, buried and he arose.

That’s Gospel!

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