Confirming arrangements for the annual Veterans’ Brunch is featured on the Jackson Parish Police Jury Agenda when they hold their regularly scheduled monthly meeting on Monday, September 8th.

Panel members Todd Culpepper (President), Lewis Chatham, Amy Magee, Sheketia Combs, Tarneshala “Niki” Cowans, Regina Rowe and Keith Burris are expected to gather for the session at 5:30 pm in the Nathaniel Zeno, Jr. Meeting Room of the 
Jackson Parish Administrative Building, located at 160 Industrial Drive in Jonesboro.

Additional items to be discussed and acted on are personnel decisions pertaining to the Road Department and Parish Board appointments. Also, management reports from the various parish departments, the engineering repor,t and adoption of the August 25th Finance Committee meeting minutes will be considered. 

Jackson Parish Police Jury Meeting Agenda
September 8, 2025

Call to Order
Invocation & Pledge of Allegiance
Public Comments

Approve Minutes
1. Adopt the minutes of the August 11, 2025, Regular Police Jury Meeting, monthly purchase orders, and payment of all bills.

Approve Committee Reports:

Finance Committee
2. Adopt the minutes of the August 25, 2025, Finance Committee Meeting

Veteran’s Committee
3. Adopt the minutes of the August 25, 2025, Veteran’s Committee Meeting
4. Consider and act on hiring Sistah’s Catering for the 2025 Veteran’s Brunch
5. Consider and act on purchasing 60 thermos gift sets for the 2025 Veteran’s Brunch

Management Reports
6. Operations Manager Report – Mr. Brad Roller
7. Assistant Operations Manager Report – Mr. Wayne Anderson
a. Accept the Emergency/Off-Schedule Report
8. Solid Waste Supervisor Report – Mr. Ed Howard

Other Business
9. Engineering Report – Mr. Paul Riley, The Riley Co. of Louisiana
10. Consider and approve hiring Tyrek Davis for the General Laborer position in the Road Dept
11. Consider and approve advertising for the Operator II position in the Road Dept
12. Consider and approve advertising for the General Laborer position in the Road Dept
13. Consider and act on Parish Board appointments

Announcements and Notifications
The October 13, 2025, meeting will be rescheduled to October 20, 2025, due to October 13 being a holiday.

Juror Comments
Adjourn

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

 

 

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The fifth annual National Football Foundation McNaughton Chapter Preseason Scholar-Athlete Watch List has announced that Dakota Knox and Landon Boston of Jonesboro-Hodge High School is among a record high of 63 high school seniors in north and central Louisiana who have been nominated by their coaches.

These young men, from all around the 318 area code in north and central Louisiana, carry at least a 3.2 grade point average, have won all-district honors or made a remarkable impact on their teams, and are involved in extracurricular activities.

Last year, outstanding scholar-athlete Christian McGuire from JHHS was one of the nine honorees who received a $1,000.00 college scholarship that is awarded annually, after each season, by the NFF’s S.M. McNaughton Chapter located in Shreveport, LA.

Additionally, KTBS Channel 3 in Shreveport continues to honor the memory and legacy of former NFF Board member Bob Griffin, the iconic sportscaster at KSLA and then KTBS for over 50 years, by weekly Tuesday evening profiles of one of the players on the NFF Scholar-Athlete Watch List. The winners will be eligible for a separate Griffin’s Scholar-Athlete Scholarship at the close of the season, presented by KTBS and Southern Classic Chicken.

This Watch List will be updated entering the fifth week of the season. Additional nominees may be submitted by head coaches via text to NFF board member Doug Ireland at 318-471-2086.

2025 NFF McNaughton Chapter Scholar-Athlete Watch List Nominees

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Monroe, LA — United Way of Northeast Louisiana has opened volunteer recruitment for the 2025–2026 READ.LEARN.SUCCEED. (RLS) initiative, inviting community members to support local 2nd–3rd grade students as Volunteer Readers or Pen Friends. Opportunities are available during the school day across Jackson Parish, Lincoln Parish, Monroe City, Morehouse Parish, Ouachita Parish, and Union Parish school districts, with brief, consistent time commitments depending on the individual school.

Launched in partner schools during the 2012-13 school year, the RLS volunteer initiative was designed to help place area students on a good path toward school success by improving their reading skills, ultimately increasing their chances of graduating high school.

Studies from the Annie E. Casey Foundation show that students who can’t read on grade level by the end of 3rd grade are four times less likely to graduate from high school.

RLS pairs volunteers with individual students as one-on-one readers and/or pen friends to spark a love of reading, boost comprehension, and nurture writing and relationship-building. Participating schools include sites in Jackson Parish Schools, Lincoln Parish Schools, Monroe City Schools, Morehouse Parish Schools, Ouachita Parish Schools, and Union Parish Schools. Volunteer scheduling options vary by individual campus.

Now serving 21 partner schools across the region, RLS provided direct support to 629 local students last year.

“When a caring adult shows up — whether to read for 30 minutes or write an encouraging letter — it changes how a child sees themselves and what’s possible,” said Michelle Saucer, Senior Community Impact Director at United Way of Northeast Louisiana. “READ.LEARN.SUCCEED. is about building confidence, joy, and momentum in literacy — one story, one student, one note at a time.”

How to Get Involved

Sign up & learn more: unitedwaynela.org/readlearnsucceed
Commitment: Once a month, in-person reading times as set by the individual school (training provided; no teaching experience required) and/or one written letter per month (guidelines specified during volunteer onboarding)
Roles:
Volunteer Reader — read individually with assigned student once a month (October-March)
Pen Friend — exchange letters with assigned student once a month (October-March)

United Way NELA encourages both new and returning volunteers to step forward to support hundreds of local students enrolled this year.

About United Way of Northeast Louisiana
United Way of Northeast Louisiana mobilizes the caring power of communities across 12 parishes to improve lives, focusing on education, financial stability, and health. Through initiatives like READ.LEARN.SUCCEED., United Way NELA brings together partners and volunteers to help people and improve the community. Learn more at unitedwaynela.org.

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If anyone were asked to give the Weston Junior High School boys basketball team a rating for their play at this point in the 2025 season, there could be only one answer.

A PERFECT 10!

That would be the number of foes that the Wolves have dispatched without a loss after beating Quitman 37-29 on Thursday and smashing tournament host Choudrant 52-21 in the finals on Friday to give WJH their third straight tourney title in three weeks. 

“I can’t say enough about the guys and the way they overcame a little adversity this week,” said WJH head coach Jacob Otwell. “We had several starters that had become ill earlier in the week and weren’t at full strength but the team picked each other up to where it seemed we werent’ missing a beat.” 

Weston 52 Choudrant 21 (Championship) – Four straight quarters of scoring in double digits while holding your opponent to four straight quarters of scoring less than 10 points will equal success every time. That is exactly what Weston did in the finals as they methodically dismantled the Aggies. The highlight was the explosion by Leighton Younse, who turned in the best individual effort for a quarter in the region when he drained four 3-pointers and made 14 third-quarter points on his way to a new career high and WJH 2025 individual scoring best, 22 points. Cason Conn also came up big with 13 points, followed by Bryce Tolar with five and Colton Otwell’s four points. Eli Henderson tallied three points, and both Andrea Spence and Dane Clifton made a basket each to round out the scoring. 

TEAM	1	2	3	4	FINAL
Weston (10-0)	13	11	15	13	52
Choudrant	6	5	9	1	21

Weston 37 Quitman 29 (first round) – A 15-2 first-quarter advantage led to a 24-9 halftime lead as Weston tripped up their Jackson Parish rival for the second time this season. The Wolverines did gain a measure of success in the contest, though. By scoring 10 points in both the third and fourth quarters, it broke the streak Weston had going of holding an opponent to single digits for a frame at an incredible 30 straight. 

In an “off-script” performance, it was the long-range shooting of the Wolves that made the difference in this one as Leighton Younse, who led the Wolves in scoring with 12, Eli Henderson, and Colton Otwell all made a pair of 3-pointers each to set a new season best mark from behind the three-point line. Cason Conn added seven and Bryce Tolar chipped in with six points as well. 

The loss, which dropped QJH to 3-4 on the season, put a damper on the game Conner May had, who scored 12 points to set a new career high and lead QJH in scoring. Hayden Seymore added seven, Aiden Reed finished with five, Noah Spillman tallied three and Mason Thomas added a basket.

TEAM	1	2	3	4	FINAL
Weston (9-0)	15	7	6	9	37
Quitman (3-4)	2	7	10	10	29

NEXT UP! On Tuesday, September 9th, the two Jackson Parish schools will square off for a third time this season at Quitman High School, with the girls’ game slated to tip off at 5:00 pm, followed by the boys’ contest.

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The Jackson Parish Library is pleased to announce that the Jonesboro Heritage Quilt Guild is the Artist of the Month for September. Come see the beauty of quilting up close on September 19-20 where a Mini Quilt Show will be on display in the McBride Room of the Jonesboro Branch. 

Heritage Quilt Guild holds “Show and Tell” Meeting

Without question, the favorite meeting among the members of the Heritage Quilt Guild is the monthly “Show and Tell” session where patrons display their creations. Just when you think that you have seen it all, these incredibly talented quilters stun you with a new pattern or design. The session that was held on Wednesday, September 3rd was no different as “oohs” and ‘aahs” were prevelant when the quilts, placemats, rugs and even patterns sewn into clothing were diplayed as shown below.

Heritage Quilt Guild “Show and Tell”  

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Most coaches will downplay any talk of “getting revenge”.

Still, head coach Kyle Leach and the girls basketball team from Quitman Junior High had to feel extra good following beating Choudrant 41-22 in the finals of the Lady Aggies tournament played this past Thursday and Friday as back on August 26th it was Choudrant that gave QJH the only blemish on their season record 

The victory improved the Lady Wolverines’ overall record to a sparkling 8-1 mark on the year and netted a straight tournament title after taking crowns in the Dodson and Quitman Tournaments the previous two weekends. The Lady Wolverines advanced to the title tilt by beating Jackson Parish rival Weston 32-27 in the opening round. 

As is his nature, the always humble coach Leach was quick to give praise to his players for their play that propelled Quitman to the victory but it was a key coaching decision that played a big role as well. 

“I am really proud of our girls for coming back to the place where we suffered our only loss and get the win. It shows a lot about what they are made of,” said Leach. “They really stepped up and turned in what I think is our best effort of the year so far.” 

What was the coaching decision that was important in the victory?

“For the first time in as long as I can remember, we decided not to press,” laughed Leach. “Choudrant did pretty well against our defense the first time we played them so we decided to sit back in a 2-3 zone and see if that would make a difference.” 

Statistics of the game proved the decision was near genius as Choudrant managed to make only 8 of 42 field goal attempts (19%) and made only 1 of 14 three-point efforts (7%). 

Offensively, the Lady Wolverines turned in a total team effort that saw two four players score within four points of each other, led by Kynleigh Leach and Ella Simonelli, scoring 11 and 10 points respectively. Audrina Martin finished with nine points to almost become the third “double digit” scorer and Bella Caskey added 7 points and pulled down a new career high and team season best 16 rebounds. Amelia Staggs pitched in a pair of baskets as well. 

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TEAM	1	2	3	4	FINAL
Quitman (8-1)	9	7	14	11	41
Choudrant	4	5	8	5	22

Quitman 32 Weston 27 (first round) – With the score tied at 24-24 after three back-and-forth quarters that saw both teams make runs only to have the other answer, it was Quitman that had the final surge to take the hard-fought victory. 

Weston opened the contest by jumping out to an 11-3 first-quarter lead on the strength of six points by Kate Keiffer and five from Rachel Bandy.  Behind five points from Ella Simonelli, who tied her career best with 14 points in the contest, and all four points Amelia Staggs made in the game, Quitman rallied to narrow the deficit to 16-13 at the half.

By holding Weston to three points by Bandy, a Mallory Malone basket, two free throws from Don’Nia Spence, and another charity point from Keiffer, Quitman used five points by Audrina Martin and baskets by Leach, Caskey, and Elliot Savage to draw even heading into the final frame.

It was an inspired QJH defensive effort that forced 8 turnovers in the fourth quarter that made the difference as Weston, now 4-3 on the season with two of the losses coming against Quitman, managed only three free throws and was unable to make a basket in 8 attempts. 

TEAM	1	2	3	4	FINAL
Quitman (7-1)	3	10	11	8	32
Weston(4-3)	11	5	8	3	27

Forest Haven Nursing Home and Rehabilitation Center, located at 175 Thrasher Drive in Jonesboro, has a well deserved reputation of providing tremendous extracurricular activities for their residents. 

The month of September is no exception, as the administration and staff have put together a tremendous schedule of events for each and every day of the month. See below for what is in store and mark your calendars so as not to miss the fun. 

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Corey Campbell broke four tackles on a 70-yard jaunt for a touchdown and then added another long scoring run late to help Jonesboro-Hodge Middle School break open a close game and lift the Tigers to a 38-20 victory over arch rival Winnfield. The second straight victory in the young season kept JHMS, under the guidance of Max Martinez, undefeated on the young season with a 2-0 record.

Levi Martin got the scoring started for JHMS with a 10-yard TD run early, and then after Winnfield answered to tie it at 6-6, Greg Hendricks scored a 1-yard TD plunge and Campbell converted the 2-point conversion to put the locals up 14-6. Winnfield answered again on a late TD pass before half, setting up the first of Campbell’s two 70-yard touchdown runs.

Early in the second half, Winnfield was driving, but Graylon Hendricks punched the ball out and came up with the recovery to thwart the visitors’ attempt to tie, leading to. Jasen McNeil carried the load on the ensuing JHMS drive all the way to the 5-yard line, where Greg Hendricks scored and Campbell punched in the 2-point conversion to make it 30-14. With the score 30-20, Campbell burst open for his second long touchdown and fourth two-point conversion run with 1:38 left in the game for the final margin. 

Corey Campbell, Hendricks, and Levi Martin earned Most Valuable Player of the Game awards. 

NEXT UP! The Tigers will make their first road trip of the year when they go to LaSalle Junior High, located in Urania on Sept for a contest on Tuesday, September 9th. Kickoff is slated for 5:30 pm.

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Director Kim Whitman announces that Salty Brahma, under the ownership of Melanie Bryant and located at 206 Jimmie Davis Blvd in Jonesboro, is the newest member of the Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce. 

With a stylish selection, Salty Brahma offers a wide variety of unique gift items, home accessories and clothing, including men’s wear with new items arriving weekly from local vendors. 

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September is recognized across the nation as Suicide Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and promote resources for those struggling with thoughts of self-harm. While conversations often focus on mental health challenges like depression, anxiety, and trauma, one painful but often overlooked connection deserves attention: the link between domestic violence and suicide.

Domestic violence is not only about physical harm—it takes an enormous emotional and psychological toll. Survivors often experience isolation, fear, humiliation, and a constant state of stress. Research shows that survivors of intimate partner violence are at a significantly higher risk of attempting or dying by suicide than those who have not experienced abuse.

For many victims, the abuse doesn’t end with bruises or broken bones. Emotional abuse, financial control, stalking, and threats can create a hopeless environment where suicide may feel like the only way out. Tragically, abusers sometimes use threats of suicide or murder-suicide to maintain control, further trapping victims in fear.

In rural communities, resources are often harder to access. Limited mental health providers, transportation barriers, and the stigma around seeking help can leave survivors feeling they have nowhere to turn.

Friends, neighbors, churches, and local organizations play a crucial role in breaking that silence and offering hope. Both survivors of abuse and those who love them should be aware of red flags that may point to suicidal thoughts, including:
• Expressing feelings of hopelessness or being trapped.
• Withdrawal from friends, family, and activities.
• Dramatic changes in mood or behavior.
• Talking about wanting to die or self-harm.

If you or someone you know is showing these signs, it’s important to take them seriously and seek help immediately. If you are experiencing abuse, know that you are not alone. Domestic violence advocacy programs, crisis hotlines, and community partners are here to support you.

If you or someone you know is considering suicide, call or text 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, to be connected to help right away. Suicide Awareness Month reminds us that every life is worth fighting for, and every person deserves safety, dignity, and hope.

Ending domestic violence and preventing suicide go hand in hand. By speaking up, supporting survivors, and breaking the silence, communities can save lives. If you or someone you know is a victim of Domestic Violence, please call 318-395-8006.

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For Top Notch Entertainment, Go Outdoors

I enjoy a good movie now and then. I’ll sometimes even go to a concert and have been known to enjoy a stage production or two. These events serve as an avenue of entertainment; we need such occasionally to get us out of our rut and offer a measure of change from the daily grind.

For sheer entertainment, though, I’ll take what Mother Nature has to offer any day. Sitting and observing the things that happen naturally in the Great Outdoors offers entertainment that money can’t buy. It’s free; it’s relaxing; it’s exciting and I can’t seem to get enough of sitting and watching nature do what nature does.

One of the most entertaining events I ever witnessed was provided by a bobcat. I was sitting in my deer stand among the hardwoods on a hill one day several years ago enjoying the peace and tranquility the setting offered.

It was obvious I had to have been hunting deer instead of squirrels because the woods seemed to be full of bushy-tails that morning; they never show up in such numbers when I have my shotgun loaded with #6s instead of the 270 deer rifle I was packing that day.

In an instant, everything changed in the woods around me. Squirrels that had been leisurely scurrying around one moment all went on high alert the next. I watched at least half a dozen scoot up trees and start to chatter excitedly. I knew they had seen something I hadn’t detected yet. Scanning the woods, I saw movement of something brown and identified a bobcat walking slowly out in front of my stand.

I’ve never been one to let such opportunities go by without extending the excitement so I dug through my pack and found a predator call which sounds like a rabbit in distress and when a predator hears it, the natural instinct is to cash in on a quick and easy meal.

Here the bobcat came in response to the call, sneaking up and sitting down beneath my box stand. I enjoyed the show until he looked up, our eyes met and he knew he’d been hoodwinked. If a bobcat can look embarrassed, that one did as he slunk back into the thicket.

Once while deer hunting, I attended another of nature’s productions as I sat on my stand under clear skies and cool temperatures. Two young bucks, identical in size both sporting six inch spikes, entered my food plot to begin grazing on the grass I’d planted earlier. Our club rules prohibited the taking of spikes so I sat back to enjoy the show when I realized I’d been watching them for over an hour, darkness was approaching and the spikes seemed perfectly content to graze on the oats and clover.

I knew if I climbed down from my stand in full view of the deer, they’d see me and high-tail it into the brush and they’d key on my stand the next time they came to the plot.

Since it was almost dark and I needed to get off the stand and head home, I decided on a tactic that was sure to cause the two young spikes to bolt without identifying me. I pulled out my grunt call and rattle bag and began grunting and rattling horns like mature bucks fighting, expecting the two visitors I’d been watching for an hour to scoot.

Nothing doing. The aggressive sounds I made with the grunt tube and rattle bag only fired them up. Instead of dashing away in fright, they faced each other and I got to watch a serious head-butting, pushing and shoving match. Instead of turning them away, I apparently turned them on. Such is the entertainment Mother Nature offers every time you head outdoors.

FISHING REPORT

CANEY LAKE – Bass are best at night on soft plastics and dark colored crank baits. Some are caught early morning around the grass on topwater lures. Some bass are chasing shad on the surface and are schooling. Shad imitation lures are working best.. Crappie are best around submerged tops on shiners and jigs. 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 – Weather is starting to cool down and bass are fair early morning on topwaters with soft plastics working best later in the day. Crappie are on the flats and are biting on shiners or jigs. 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. Lazarre ramp and Joe Bob’s are now open. Best bass fishing has been fishing around the rocks near the bank and on shad imitation lures in the cuts. A good many catfish are being caught and crappie fishing is best around submerged tops in the river and in the bayou.
LAKE D’ARBONNE – Cooler weather continues to produce best bass catches when they’re schooling and early mornings on topwater lures around grass with crank baits and soft plastics picking up some later. Wobbleheads are picking up some fish around the grass. Crappie are scattered and on the deep flats. Shiners and jigs are working best. 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 soft plastics with some schooling reported on the surface. Night fishing has improved around lighted piers and boat docks on soft plastics and crank baits. Bream are scattered. Stripers are schooling and hitting shad imitations. 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.

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The Weston High School Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) announces the sale of a commemorative WHS Fall Festival T-Shirt as a fundraiser with proceeds from sales benefiting the WHS PTO.

Cost of a shirt is $18.00 with an additional charge for sizes 2XL and up. See below for a front and back view of the shirt, as well as a QRM Code that can be scanned to help with purchase. Deadline for purchases is Tuesday, September 16th. 

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In the tapestry of the Church, we often speak of the “Body of Christ”—a living, breathing community of believers, each with a role, a gift, and a purpose. But what happens when we look at this body through the lens of a quirky little family: the Body family? Meet Some Body, Every Body, and No Body. Their stories might just help us understand our place in God’s Kingdom a little better.

Some Body is always present—at the front of the sanctuary, leading the choir, preaching the sermon, or organizing the potluck. They’re gifted, passionate, and often admired. But sometimes, Some Body forgets that being seen isn’t the same as being surrendered.

Paul reminds us in Romans 12:3, “Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment.” Some Body is essential, yes—but only when they remember that their gifts are for service, not status.

Every Body is the heartbeat of the Church. They show up, pray, serve, and love—whether they’re on stage or sweeping the fellowship hall. Every Body understands that the Church isn’t built on personalities, but on participation.

1 Corinthians 12:12 says, “Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ.” Every Body knows that unity doesn’t mean uniformity. We are different, but we belong to each other.

No Body used to be involved. Maybe they got hurt, felt overlooked, or simply drifted away. Now, No Body is absent—and the Church feels it. Their gifts are missed, their voice is silent, and their seat is empty.

Hebrews 10:25 urges us, “Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another.” No Body needs healing, restoration, and a reminder that they still matter.

Are you Some Body, needing to refocus your gifts on service?

Are you Every Body, faithfully showing up and building the Church?

Or are you No Body, longing to be seen and welcomed back?

The good news is that in Christ, we are all part of His Body. And whether you’re a hand, a foot, a heart, or a voice—there’s a place for you.

I invite you, to go to church and join the Body family!

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The Quitman Junior High Softball fall schedule has been released. Under the tutelage of head coach Garrett Nyegaard and assistant Max Martinez, the youthful Lady Wolverines will play 10 games, including six home games that will be played on the QHS campus. See below for the QJH schedule.  

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(Cassie Dickenson)

Cub Scouts are always prepared, and you should be too! Don’t miss your opportunity to bring your kindergartener through 5th grader to the first meeting of the year and learn more about Jonesboro Pack 523.

The fun begins with Recruiting Night on Thursday, September 11, at 6:00 pm at Life Church in Jonesboro. At this event, you will learn about the scouting program and get answers to any questions you may have. Your children will have the opportunity to meet the leaders, join fellow scouts, and get a taste of the pack meetings. All are welcome, and no registration is required to attend Recruiting Night.

There is never a dull moment when you are a Cub Scout! Your child will unlock opportunities to go on camp-outs, where there is plenty of canoeing, fishing, and hiking. Age-appropriate den meetings are scheduled weekly, covering topics such as knife safety, bicycling, community service, and much more. Additionally, scouts have multiple opportunities to build and race derby cars, hike, and attend field trips.

If you know a boy or girl who would enjoy the action and excitement of scouts, all while developing character and responsibility, don’t miss this meeting! Exciting events are already planned for the month of September, and you can be a part!

If you are interested in experiencing the fun of Scouting America, contact Cubmaster Brian Hurt by phone at (318)734-5371 or by email at bhurt.pack523@gmail.com. We hope to see you on September 11th at Life Church, located at 735 Pershing Hwy in Jonesboro.

 

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My Way or His Way?

Self-confidence might put a spring in my step but it’s more likely to trip me up. It can easily lead to pride. Maybe I should introduce myself; I’m me, myself and I.

Daniel detailed God’s relationship with King Nebuchadnezzar. The king paid a high price for his self-confidence and pride.

“But when his heart and mind were puffed up with arrogance, he was brought down from his royal throne and stripped of his glory. He was driven from human society. He was given the mind of a wild animal, and he lived among the wild donkeys. He ate grass like a cow, and he was drenched with the dew of heaven, until he learned that the Most High God rules over the kingdoms of the world and appoints anyone he desires to rule over them (Daniel 5:20-21 NLT).”

Where do you place your confidence?

“We are confident of all this because of our great trust in God through Christ. It is not that we think we are qualified to do anything on our own. Our qualification comes from God (2 Corinthians 3:4-5 NLT).”

My way or His way?

His is always best.

Jesus not only knows the way and leads the way. He IS the way.

“Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me (John 14:6 NLT).”

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

CAREER OPPORTUNITY

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

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

CAREER OPPORTUNITY

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

PUBLIC NOTICE

The Eros Community Water System is currently in violation of the maximum contaminant level (MCL) for trihalomethanes as set forth by the State [Part XII of the Louisiana State Sanitary Code (LAC 51:XII)] and the Federal Primary Drinking Water Regulations (40 CFR Part 141).
The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) set drinking water standards and requires the disinfection of drinking water.
Where disinfection is used in the treatment of drinking water, disinfectants combine with naturally occurring organic and inorganic matter present in water to form chemicals called disinfection byproducts (DBPs). EPA and LDH set standards for controlling the levels of disinfectants and DBPs in drinking water, including trihalomethanes (THMs) and haloacetic acid (HAAs). Some people who drink water containing THMs in excess if the MCL over many years may experience problems with their liver, kidneys, or central nervous system, and may have an increased risk of getting cancer.
In December 1998, EPA set enforceable drinking water standards for TTHMs at 80 parts per billion (ppb) and for HAA5 at 60 parts per billion (ppb) to reduce the risk of cancer or other adverse health effects. Compliance with the TTHMs and HAA5 standard for public water systems serving less than 10,000 individuals initially became effective and enforceable on January 1, 2004. Compliance with the TTHMs standard is determined by calculating a locational running annual average (LRAA) of quarterly TTHMs sample results. Compliance calculations performed for the first quarter of 2025 show that the system’s current TTHMs LRAAs are 110 ppb at DBP02- 290 Century Loop; Thus, the system is currently in violation of the TTHMs standard.
We experienced electrical issues at the well. They affected the aerator & chlorinator. We have made necessary repairs to fix the issue.
Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially
those who may not have received this directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail. If you have any questions, contact the water system’s secretary, Heather Lewis, at 318-417-6700.
This is not an emergency. If it had been, you would have been notified immediately. EPA and LDH do not consider this violation to have any serious adverse health effects on human health as a result of short-term exposure; however, continued long-term exposure to TTHMs and HAA5 levels above the standard (e.g., 20 years of exposure) has the potential to have serious adverse effects on human health

Bettye (Turner) Pate
September 22, 1934 – September 4, 2025

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Bettye (Turner) Pate went to be with the Lord on September 4th at the age of 88 years old. Visitation has been set for Tuesday, September 9th, from 9:00 – 11:00 am at the Jonesboro-Hodge Methodist Church, located at 402 4th Street in Jonesboro, followed by the funeral service officiated by Pastor Gary Green. Burial will take place at the Brook Chapel Cemetery, located on 175 Brooks Chapel Road in Quitman, LA, under the direction of Southern-Edmonds Funeral Home in Jonesboro. 

A full obituary will be presented at a later date. 

Maxine (Brown) Weeks
October 16, 1930 – September 4, 2025

Maxine (Brown) Weeks, ascended to her Heavenly home on Thursday, September 4, 2025. Maxine was a loving wife and nurturing mother that always put her faith and family first. She loved her church, church family and enjoyed being an active member at Quitman Baptist Church. Maxine had a big heart and a caregiving way.

I their early years, Maxine and her husband, Carl enjoyed spending their free time at the bowling alley bowling with their league. Following Carl’s retirement, they also loved to pull their camper out and go on adventures to find new terrain to explore. These traveling and camping adventures might lead to fishing or skiing, but no matter where they were they were bound to find a way to make fun-filled memories. Maxine was an avid reader and very quick to finish any book. She also was a skilled seamstress. She spent much time on a sewing machine sewing clothing for her family as she handmade her girl’s clothing with love. She leaves a legacy of love and tender devotion behind and will be missed.

Those left to cherish her memory is her daughter, Carla (Weeks) Raborn and husband Ronnie; grandchildren, Susan (Traina) Wallis, Chad Raborn (Derek), Kristen (Raborn) Foster (Steven); great grandchildren, Tiffany (Graham) Ables (John), Josh Graham, Kallie (Wallis) Ingles (Craig), Oliver Foster, Landon Foster and Zachary Foster; 5 great-great grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Maxine was preceded in death by her husband, Carl Weeks; daughters, Sandy Weeks, Linda (Weeks) Wallis; parents, Harlin and Magnolia (Thomas) Brown; brothers, Robert Brown and Donald Brown.

Friends may visit with the family on Monday, September 8, 2025, from 9:30 AM until the time of the funeral service, which is set to begin at 11:00 AM in the chapel of Southern-Edmonds Funeral Home with Bro. Donald Rudd officiating. Burial will follow in Gayla Traina Cemetery under the direction of Southern-Edmonds Funeral Home.

Serving the family as pallbearers will be Chad Raborn, Josh Graham, John Ables, Craig Ingles, and Robbie Wallis.

The family would like to give special thanks to her caregivers, Amy Pace and Amber Lebrun, for their many years of love and care; Compassus Hospice and Princeton Place.

Gloria Sue (Wells) Smith
September 24, 1938 – August 28, 2025

Gloria Sue Smith loved life and navigated its unpredictable turns with grace, joy, kindness, and incredible strength. She completed her journey and was called home by her heavenly Father August 28, 2025, with family at her side.

Gloria, known as Sue to everyone, was born on September 24, 1938, in Shreveport, Caddo Parish, Louisiana to David S. Wells and Alice Pepper Wells. Sue attended elementary, middle and high school in Jonesboro, Louisiana, where she graduated from Jonesboro Hodge High School in May of 1956.

Sue married Arden Dale Smith on August 10, 1956, in Jonesboro, Louisiana. Arden’s job took them to Alief, Texas in the mid 1960’s where they raised their children. Sue was true to her faith and was involved with Vacation Bible School when her children were young. She worked for the Texas Department of Health and Texas Department of Criminal Justice as Administrative Secretary for several years. Sue finished her career as an Educational Secretary for the Alief Independent School District.

Sue and Arden followed their children’s sport endeavors throughout the years. She enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren as well, spoiling them as grandparents do. Watching old Hallmark movies and western shows were favorite pastime activities as well as collecting Beanie Babies. Sue and Arden would be sure to shop for them when they traveled. She loved playing Mahjong on the computer and Scrabble, when she could get someone to play with her. Sue also collected owl figurines and read romance novels. Her family history was extremely important and she spent hours exploring her genealogy.

She was preceded in death by Arden Smith, her husband of 64 years; her parents, David S. Wells and Alice Ouzts; her stepfather, Robert Ouzts; and her sister, Verb Walker.

She is survived by her children, Melanie Lane Smith and Todd Arden Smith, of Houston, Texas; her brother, David M. Wells and wife Joy, of Bossier City, Louisiana; her grandchildren, Courtney and Makenzie Smith of Tomball, Texas; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, September 6, 2025 at Southern-Edmonds Funeral Home in Jonesboro with pastors, Andy Teston and Alecia Head officiating. Burial followed in Gayla Traina Cemetery near Jonesboro under the direction of Southern-Edmonds Funeral Home in Jonesboro. 

Serving as pallbearers were Chad Tolar, Dawson Tolar, Ronnie Tolar, Greg Foshee, Dillon Wells, Jason Wells, Allen Teston, and Emerson Wells.

Patsy Newsom Carter
December 23, 1927 – September 4, 2025

Sue Patsy Tolar Newsom Carter was born December 23, 1927, and passed away September 4, 2025.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Susie Wigley Tolar and Charles Monroe Tolar; her spouses, Rev. Warren Aubrey Newsom and Don Carter; her sons, Warren Dale Newsom and Charles Alan “Al” Newsom; and her brothers C. M. Tolar, Jr., and George Newton Tolar.

Patsy is survived by her daughters, Anna Beth Crowson and husband, Joel, of Haughton, LA, and Lori Kay Newsom of West Monroe, LA. She is also survived by her grandchildren Jessie Newsom (Kisha), Wesley Newsom, Zachary Newsom (Keeleigh), Joanna Mangum, Whitney Crowson, Meredith Crowson, Nichol Cruz, Andrea Dark, and many great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

Patsy loved her children more than anything and adored her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was outgoing and enjoyed being around others. She loved to shop, and it didn’t matter if she needed anything or not. But the thing that brought her the most joy was telling others about Jesus. For many years, she faithfully taught a Sunday School class every Sunday. Just a few weeks before passing, she was in a rehab facility recovering from a fall and asked everyone who came into the room if they knew Jesus. Her favorite book was her Bible, and she read it daily until her eye disease limited her vision. She was an accomplished singer and pianist. She directed children’s choirs in several local churches, and many children in the community learned to play the piano under her patient guidance.

Patsy worked for years as a dietician for the Jackson Parish school system and later retired as the dietician for Jackson Parish Hospital. Cooking for family and others remained a passion of hers to the very end.

A memorial service will be held Sunday, September 7, 2025, at The Simple Church located on the Louisiana Boardwalk, 540 Boardwalk Blvd., in Bossier City. Visitation begins at 2:00 pm with the service following at 3:00 pm. There will be no graveside service.

We offer a special thank you to Dorothy Lee who lovingly took care of Patsy during the day and to Linda Phillips who graciously stayed with her when needed.

In lieu of flowers, we suggest gifts be given to the missions ministry at The Simple Church, 601 Benton Road, Bossier City, LA 71111.

Carolyn Cooper Staggs
June 15, 1931 – August 28, 2025

Carolyn Cooper Staggs, age 94 of Quitman, Louisiana, went to be with the Lord, Thursday, August 28, 2025. She was born June 15, 1931 in Winnfield, Louisiana.
She married her childhood sweetheart, Henry Staggs, in 1950. They were married 67 years.

They served the Lord in the ministry of the gospel during their years together. She was a woman of great faith. Along with being a pastor’s wife she had many talents, piano playing, seamstress, and she enjoyed decorating and painting. She was an avid reader. She enjoyed shopping trips and finding bargains, especially with her sister. Most of all she had great love for her family.

She is survived by her children, son, Mark Staggs and daughter, Susan Williams and husband Roger. Her grandchildren, Jacob Staggs (Stacy), Tyler Staggs, Joshua Williams (Kelly), Holly Morris (Brandon Garner). Great grandchildren, Delaney Staggs, Cooper Henry Staggs, Wade Williams (Erin), Cooper Williams, Averie Williams (Logan Ponder), Garrett Morris (Bailey), Jared Morris (Machaela). Great Great grandchildren, Collins Williams, Beau Williams, Nolan Williams, Baker Morris. Sister Mary Hines, Sister-in-law Sara Borland (Bobby); many nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Henry Staggs, parents, Buddy and Bertie Cooper, brothers, Billy Cooper (Marie), Jack Cooper (Johnnie), sisters, Betty Cooper, Kathleen Honey Hansen (Tom), nieces Sylvia Duck, Liz Silmon, nephew Jonah Borland, Great nephew Blaise Borland.

What better way to open a season than to play your arch-rival? That is exactly what Jonesboro-Hodge High School will do this Friday evening when they trek 24 pine tree-filled miles down Hwy 167 south to take on Winnfield High School. Kick off is scheduled for 7:00 pm. 

Official records show the 2025 contest will be the 98th time the two schools with the same mascot Tiger namesake will have played each other in the series that first began in 1917. The two Tigers have played each other every year since 1945, with the exception of 2019 when the game was cancelled due to the COVID epidemic, with Winnfield holding a 53-43-2 all-time advantage, including victories in two of the last three contests. 

Under the guidance of head coach Terrance Blankenship, now entering his school record 13th season at the helm, the series record is 3-8 in favor of Winnfield, with the highlight being a 57-32 victory in 2021, which equaled the 1937 contest for most points ever scored by JHHS in the series. This will also mark the 30th time the two schools will have opened the season against each other, with Winnfield holding a 20-10 advantage. 

What to expect!
Over the past four years, the game has been what could be dubbed as a “battle between brothers” as the two head coaches, Terrance Blankenship (JHHS) and Jay Watson (WHS), had played side-by-side as linemen for Jonesboro-Hodge High School during the “three peat” years of 1987-89. Adding to the intrigue was the fact that the two lifelong friends had always celebrated their birthdays, which were one day apart, together when they were young. This year Winnfield will have a new head coach in Byron Keller, ending the near “family affair.”

“It will be strange not seeing Jay on the other sideline,” said Blankenship. “He will always be close to me as we have many great memories shared together. I always said that I pulled for him to win every game but one.”

New Look Tigers! 
Before the pre-season scrimmage, it was expected that the JHHS backfield would be the same as the year before with Dakota Knox lining up as quarterback and Landon Boston being the tailback. The play of freshman King Campbell changed all that. 

Given an opportunity to show his ability, Campbell impressed the Tiger coaching staff so much that they gave him the start at the Bayou Jamb. Campbell proved the choice was a good one as he connected on a beautifully thrown long touchdown pass to wideout D. J. Palmer and led JHHS to a come-from-behind victory. The move also gave the Tigers more flexibility in the backfield as now both Knox and Boston become weapons that have to be dealt with. 

“We are eager to see the offense with King at the controls,” said Blankenship. “If he plays like he is capable of it will open our offense up and give Winnfield a lot to have to deal with.” 

Keys to Victory!
1. Tigers must tackle well. – Even though JHHS beat Delhi Charter at the Bayou Jamb, there were a lot of tackles that were missed. If that continues, the explosive Winnfield offense will take advantage of that. 

2. Must defend passes well. – Again, even though JHHS came away with the victory last week, several passes were completed that never should have been, including a pair of touchdowns that were caught. That can’t happen this week with an experience Winnfield quarterback at the helm. 

3. New faces, new places! – One great positive for the Tigers is that Kyron Atkins is expected to return to both the offensive and defensive line after recovering from an early-season injury. Also, with Campbell stepping in a quarterback, the Tiger passing attack should be formidable and with Knox moving to tailback and wideout, his open field capability will have more of an opportunity to shine. 

 

 

 

 

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It happens every year around this time. Temperatures and humidity go on the rise, making it tough to deal with the extreme heat, especially for seniors and those without adequate cooling at their places of residence. It is the “Dog Days of Summer.”

This past week, Entergy came to the rescue of local seniors suffering through the sometimes intolerable conditions by donating $500.00 to the Jackson Council on Aging, which used the money to purchase fans to be distributed to those in need. 

“We are extremely grateful for their generosity in supporting us and our local residents,” said Jackson Council on Aging Director Linda Wyatt. 

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The 2025 Homecoming Court and Escorts have been announced by Jonesboro-Hodge High School, featuring a total of 28 young men and women, including 10 from the senior class from which a King and Queen will be selected. 

Homecoming is scheduled for Friday, October 3rd, where an assembly will take place that morning at the JHHS auditorium, followed by the annual Homecoming parade and climaxed by the Jonesboro-Hodge Tigers hosting Arcadia High School at Caldwell-Peacock Stadium on the JHHS campus, that has a 7:00 pm kickoff. 

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Whether it is an amateur or professional sporting event, without fail, you see it happen in every sport after a championship is won. Someone is going to point to a finger on their hand. What that means is that this is where the RING is going to go. 

This past May, the Jonesboro-Hodge Lady Tiger Track team won the LHSAA Class A State Track and Field Championship, becoming the first female sports program to claim a state title in the 116-year history of JHHS competing in high school athletics. 

On August 29th, this special group of young ladies was recognized during an assembly in the JHHS auditorium, where each received a championship ring and a miniature replica of the state championship trophy. 

Jonesboro-Hodge High School head track coach and athletic director, Terrance Blankenship, expressed his appreciation to the girls and coaching staff for the work they put in to accomplish this historic achievement.  

“I am very happy for these girls and our coaching staff to see all the work they put in pay off,” said Blankenship. “People don’t realize all the effort and time they spent each and every day in order to be prepared to perform like they did at state.”

Blankenship always gave thanks to the supporters of the JHHS program for their help in recognizing the state title winners. 

“I want to thank all the graduating classes and individuals who participated in the ring drive fund, bought t-shirts, or simply gave donations,” said Blankenship. “We could not have honored these girls this way without your support.” 

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The junior high girls and boys teams from Quitman and Weston all smashed their opponents on Tuesday, setting the stage for their all-Jackson Parish matchups in the first round of the Choudrant Tournament on Thursday. The QJH and WJH girls will open play at 4:00 pm in the new Choudrant gym while the boys teams from both schools will follow at 5:00 pm. Both the girls and boys from host Choudrant and Simsboro will play at 4:00 & 5:00 pm on Friday with the finals of both divisions following beginning with the girls playing. 

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Tuesday Tilts

Quitman 41 JHMS 12 (Girls) – Jonesboro-Hodge Middle School scored the first two points of the game in their season opener played at JHMS and then took a 3-2 lead but that was the highlight of the night for the junior Lady Tigers as Quitman scored the next 12 points to take a 15-3 first quarter advantage on the way to their sixth victory in seven games and fourth win in a row. Audrina Martin and Ella Simonelli did most of the damage scoring 15 and 14 points respectively. Kynleigh Leach finished with five and Bella Caskey scored four while Demie McCurdy hit a basket and Amelia Staggs made a free throw to round out the scoring for the Lady Wolverines. No scoring was submitted for JHMS.

TEAM	1	2	3	4	FINAL
Quitman (6-1)	15	7	12	7	41
JHMS (0-1)	3	2	2	5	12

Weston 50 Calvin 8 (Girls) – Kate Keiffer scored all 12 of her team-leading points in the first half to lead Weston to a commanding 26-6 lead over homestanding Calvin, leading to the Lady Wolves, now 4-2 on the season, to the convincing victory. Hannah Aldy also came up big with a season high 10 points while Mallory Malone chipped in with 8. Saniyah Saulsberry, Aubrie Maxwell and Laken Borders all finished with four points each while Rachel Bandy, Evie Delaney and Ashlyn Petre scored a basket each. 

TEAM	1	2	3	4	FINAL
Weston (4-2)	14	12	14	10	50
Calvin	4	2	2	0	8

Quitman 46 JHMS 8 (boys) – Conner May scored 7 straight points to help Quitman take a 13-1 advantage on their way to a commanding 26-6 first quarter lead over Jonesboro-Hodge Middle School who managed only two points the rest of the way against a suffocating Wolverine defense that forced 25 turnovers and grabbed a season best 40 rebounds after allowing only 3 fieild goals on 41 JHMS attempts. Hayden Seymore scored 12 points and May netted 9 as a new season best ten Wolverines scored in the contest. Jaxon Brown was next with a season-best six points, followed by both Mason Thomas and Aiden Reed finishing with four each. Khyree Boston and Shepard Norred tallied their first three points of the year, while Cason Rogers and Noah Spillman scored two points each. Hayden Essmeier also added his first point of the season. No scoring was submitted by JHMS.

TEAM	1	2	3	4	FINAL
Quitman (3-3)	26	0	15	5	46
JHMS (0-1)	6	0	0	2	8

Weston 44 Calvin 5 (boys) – Continuing their streak of not allowing a team to score in double digits for an incredible 28 straight quarters, Weston improved on their defensive prowess by setting a new season best in fewest points allowed to blast their way to an 8th straight victory to open the season.  Leyton Younse posted all 13 of his team-leading points in the second and third quarters to lead WJH in scoring, while Andrea Spence also reached “double digits” with 11 points. Colton Otwell and Jensen Waggoner finished with four each, and Cason Conn, Bryce Tolar, Dane Clifton, Darrell Guinn, and Zarmichael Washington all scored two points apiece. Quylyn Snuggs and Kane Stassen both hit a free throw to round out the scoring that saw a new season high of 11 players post points. 

TEAM	1	2	3	4	FINAL
Weston (8-0)	4	18	16	6	44
Calvin	0	4	1	0	5