As we come to the end of this year’s Thanksgiving Holidays, the Jackson Parish Journal JPJ) wants you to know how much the residents and local business community of Jackson Parish are appreciated and how thankful I, as publisher of the JPJ, am for your support.
Words can’t express how much gratitude is felt for the residents and business community of Jackson Parish, who continue to support the JPJ so that all the current news, events, sports, activities, and people related to our beloved parish and local communities can be brought with each Sunday and Wednesday edition.
In April of 2020, following the demise of the Jackson Independent, the opportunity arose to begin publishing an online digital media newspaper. Since the humble beginnings of one advertising sponsor and 18 viewers, according to the statistics provided by the Jackson Parish Journal website and Facebook, the JPJ was viewed over 500,000 times during the month of November alone. (426.3 K – Facebook, 81.8K – JPJ website)
This would not be possible without the support of the residents of Jackson Parish, and the tremendous response received by the local business community, who have provided support through advertising, which allows the JPJ to be viewed FREE OF CHARGE.
As the JPJ nears a mark of 10,000 articles being posted (currently at 9,696), all being focused on local happenings over the five-plus years of the publication, the pledge is to continue to be the voice of Jackson Parish, but that can only happen with your continued contribution of content and related viewership.
You are also asked to show our advertisers that they are appreciated and getting the return on investment they deserve by signing up for the free JPJ email edition and joining the JPJ Facebook page. Without them, there is no Jackson Parish Journal.
So here is to a bright future, and thank you again for your viewership, sponsorship, and support.
The Jackson Parish Journal Published by a Jackson Parish Resident Dedicated to Jackson Parish Residents
The 2025 “Miracle on Main Street” Christmas Wonderland in the Pines Parade rolled through the town of Jonesboro on Saturday, November 29th, as 88 entries delighted those who lined the streets despite chilly and wet conditions.
As part of the annual parade, the Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce selected winners of the best entries in four separate classifications: Queens and Courts, Business, Churches, and Friends and Family.
2025 Christmas Parade Entry Winners
Queens and Courts Entries: 1st Place: Emma Kate Toms 2nd Place: Averi Hasley
Business Entries 1st Place: Indigo Salon 2nd Place: Brian Baker
Church Entries 1st Place: Sweetwater Baptist
Friends & Family Entries 1st Place: Richard Lowrey 2nd Place: Madeline Harrell
Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce Director Kim Whitman expresses appreciation to all who took part in the parade and whose help in getting things organized and set up was invaluable.
“To all good things must come to an end!” – Geoffrey Chaucer
The meaning behind the phrase of the 14th-century poet was that enjoyable experiences are temporary and eventually must end. It’s often used to appreciate good times while they last and reminds us to be grateful for time we get to experience them.
On Friday, one of the more enjoyable football seasons Jonesboro-Hodge High School has experienced in recent memory came to an end when #1 seed Haynesville defeated the 9th-seeded Tigers 48-12 in the Quarterfinals of the LHSAA Division IV playoffs.
With the defeat, JHHS concludes a fine 9-4 campaign that saw the Tigers finish in second place in District 1-1A behind Haynesville, who continues to the Division IV semifinals with a 12-0 record, where they will host #4 Jeanerette (11-1), who advanced by beating Logansport by a 36-8 margin.
While being disappointed that the season ended, it did nothing to take away the pride JHHS head coach Terrance Blankenship felt about his team and the appreciation he had for the seven seniors who helped lead the Tigers back into prominence on the gridiron.
“It didn’t end the way we wanted it to, but I’m proud of these 39 kids and our seven seniors. From the first day of practice back in August, they gave us everything they had and were great representatives of our athletic program, school, and community, said Blankenship. “Anytime you are playing during the Thanksgiving holidays, it means you have had a successful season, and I told the guys after the game, they had nothing to hang their heads about and to always take pride in the fact that they were responsible for bringing back the tradition of JHHS being recognized as a good football program.”
Seven seniors: Dakota Knox, Landon Boston, Malik Nichols, Marquise Baker, John LeBlance, Kyron Atkins, and Sadaar Stevens, played their last game at JHHS, having left an indelible impression on Blankenship and the Tiger coaching staff.
“The Class of 2026 left their mark on the JHHS football program,” reflected Blankenship. “They are a class group of young men with great character that we enjoyed coaching and being around daily, and have left a great legacy for all of our younger guys.”
In a final reflection of the season, Blankenship also made sure to express his appreciation and thanks to the many backers of the Tiger football program, who gave support the entire season and sent a message to the parents of team members.
“I appreciate my WIFE, administrators, coaches, school board, teachers, parents, booster club, touchdown club, concession workers, Bethany Baptist Church (MY CHURCH), JHHS Alumni and fans far and near, homecoming tailgaters, radio broadcasters, chain crew, the Jonesboro Police Department and Jackson Parish Sheriff Department, and sponsors. THANK YOU from my coaching staff, players, and trainers,” said Blankenship in an effort to name everyone he could recall who helped make the 2025 season a successful one.
The Tiger head coach also had a message to the parents, families, and friends of the players on the team.
“I know I’m hard on the kids, but I want the best for them, and I’m trying to push them beyond their limits on and off the field and keep them out of these Jonesboro streets,” stated Blankenship. “Thank you for all of your support, and we’ll start getting ready for next season.”
Thank You, Coach Blankenship! Jonesboro-Hodge High School and the community are fortunate to have you and your coaching staff leading our young men into the future.
Wilda Smith (l) receiving a plaque from Jonesboro Mayor James “Spike” Harris (r)
With local dignitaries, friends, and family in attendance, Wilda Smith, Grand Marshal of the “Miracle on Main Street’ 2025 Wonderland Christmas in the Pines Parade, was honored on Saturday morning at the annual Grand Marshal Coffee held at the Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce (JPCC) Office.
The setting was appropriate to bestow recognition as being Grand Marshal, as Smith led the JPCC as Director for 20 years, with her tireless volunteer work and leadership touching nearly every individual in every corner of Jackson Parish life.
Included in the many civic positions that Smith has contributed to were the Downtown Development Committee, Truancy Board, Jackson Parish Museum Board, Jackson Parish Tourism Board, Lions Club, Jackson Parish Cancer Board, Jackson Parish Industrial District Board, Jackson Parish Sports Hall of Fame, Study Guild, State Commerce & Industrial Board, and even a gubernatorial appointment to the State Public Defender Committee.
Wilda’s influence, leadership, and steadfast love for Jackson Parish have left an indelible mark on the community she calls home. Her generosity, kindness, and commitment to making Jackson Parish a better place continue to inspire all who know her.
(JPSO Report) – On October 8, 2025, the Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office (JPSO) was requested by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to assist in an investigation involving the manufacturing and uploading of Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) to the dark web.
Through the investigation, the suspect was identified as Brandon Michael Werner (DOB 11/01/1988). Werner is a registered Tier 3 Sex Offender in the State of Missouri.
JPSO deputies identified a residence in Jonesboro, Louisiana, where Werner was staying, and obtained a search warrant. During the execution of that warrant, Werner was taken into custody without incident.
A minor child located inside the residence was identified as a victim depicted in the CSAM uploaded online. Werner was transported to the Jackson Parish Jail and booked for the following offenses: • LA R.S. 14:42 – First Degree Rape • LA R.S. 15:542 – Failure to Register as a Sex Offender
Following Werner’s arrest, JPSO deputies—working in coordination with FBI agents—continue an active investigation into the allegations. Further evidence also showed that the mother of the minor victim in Jonesboro accepted payment from Werner in exchange for permitting the creation of CSAM.
As a result of that evidence, Lorraine Hart (DOB 03/24/1991) was arrested on November 21, 2025, and booked for: • LA R.S. 14:24/14:42 – Principal to First Degree Rape • LA R.S. 14:46.3 – Trafficking of Children for Sexual Purposes
This investigation remains ongoing. No further details will be released at this time to protect the identity of the minor victim.
All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
The Jackson Parish School Board will hold its regularly scheduled monthly meeting on at 11:00 am on Monday, December 1st, in the Conference Room of the Jackson Parish School District Central Office, located at 315 Pershing Hwy. in Jonesboro.
Prior to the board members Gerry Mims (President), Wade McBride, Paulette Belton, Rick Barlow, Calvin Waggoner, Dennis Clary and Mary Saulters meeting in the general session, representatives of the Building & Grounds, Transportation, and Executive/Finance Committees will meet at 10:30 am.
Jackson Parish School Board Meeting Agenda
1. Invocation– Paulette Belton 2. Pledge of Allegiance – Calvin Waggoner 3. Call to Order 4. Consider approving the minutes as presented from the Regular Scheduled meeting held on November 3, 2025. 5. Recognize Amy Hay – Information on 2024-2025 School Performance Scores 6. Consider electing a Vice-President for 2026. 7. Consider approving the updated Disciplinary Hearing Officer (DHO) List. 8. Consider approving the updated Hearing Procedures for Employee Discipline. This policy shall govern the conduct of such hearings before a DHO within the school district. 9. Consider adopting items per the Committee Reports attached hereto. 10. Superintendent’s Comments 11. Adjourn
The girls and boys basketball teams from Jackson Parish and surrounding area schools hit the hardwood again after taking a break for the Thanksgiving holidays with the season starting up again with games slated this Monday and Tuesday.
The action begins on Monday, December 1st, when Jonesboro-Hodge Middle School hosts Union Parish with tip-off slated for 4:00 pm. Saline High School gets the varsity division games started by taking a trip to St. Mary’s of Natchitoches, where the girls will open play at 5:00 pm, followed by boys action.
The three Jackson Parish High Schools and neighboring Dodson will play on Tuesday, December 2nd, featuring a junior varsity boys, varsity girls, and varsity boys matchup between visiting Quitman High School and homestanding Jonesboro-Hodge. The JV game tips off at 5:00 pm, followed by the varsity contests. Weston High School makes the short trip to Choudrant, where the Junior Varsity girls and boys open play at 5:00 pm., before the girls and boys varsity teams of each square off. Dodson High will play host to Grace Christian of Alexandria at 6:00 pm for girls’ and boys’ games.
Not all action is reserved for the indoors, despite the fact that the weather is supposed to turn cold in the early part of the week. Depending on conditions, the Jonesboro-Hodge Middle School softball team is scheduled to travel to Farmerville to take on Union Parish Middle School, with the first pitch scheduled for 5:30 pm.
The burgeoning acting career of former Quitman, LA resident Ashton Thomas continues this December 4th – 7th, when she will be a featured cast member of “A Christmas Carol, The Musical”, presented by the Ruston Community Theatre.
Last seen as the Narrator in “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat”, the daughter of Wayne and Kari Thomas of Quitman, LA has been a mainstay at Ruston Community Theatre, and will once again bring her vibrant talent to all who attend.
The 2020 Quitman High School graduate now lives in Ruston, LA while continuing her college studies at Louisiana Tech University, where she served as an English Teaching Assistant in 2023-24.
A multitude of runners gathered at the Jackson Parish Courthouse early Saturday morning to brave chilly and wet conditions and run in the 2nd annual “Ugly Sweater” 5K Race that opened the Christmas Wonderland in the Pines Festival in Jonesboro.
Gage Horton of Quitman High School, with a time of 21.20 was the overall winner of the event that had runners trek through the Town of Jonesboro. Winners were also named in by age divisions of the race sponsored by Cindy Pardue, coach of the Quitman High School Cross Country team, which was also a fundraiser for DART of Jackson Parish, which was the beneficiary of non-perishable items donated by participants and supporters.
Ugly Sweater 5K Winners
12 and Under Division 1st – Axle Mullins (28:22) 2nd – Anzlea Magee (29:29) 3rd – Josh Walker (37:36)
13-18 Year Old Division 1st – Gage Horton (21:20) 2nd – Carson Savana (23:00) 3rd – Josiah Ramsey (23:01)
19-35 Year Old Division 1st – Conner Walker (30:12) 2nd – Ashley Fraley (36:09) 3rd – Brynn Ballard (37:36)
36 and Up Division 1st – Shane Lassiter (24:40) 2nd – Ashley Pyles (27:59) 3rd – Kimberly Shows (35:45)
We are so thankful for everyone who registered and came out to run this morning in support of the Jackson Parish division of DART and the QHS track and field team,” said Pardue. “Also, a big thanks goes out to the Jonesboro Fire Department and Jackson Parish EMS, and all the workers who helped put this all together. We wish you all the best this holiday season!”
Congratulations to Master Technician Gerald Perry for being named the “King of the Shop” at Benoit Ford in Jonesboro. By virtue of his winning the month-long contest, Perry received a Vizio 50″ 4K flat screen television.
“Your dedication, hard work, and expertise are truly unmatched. We greatly appreciate everything you do here at Benoit Ford in Jonesboro. Thank you for consistently going above and beyond for our team and our customers!” – Benoit Ford
The Jackson Parish Ambulance Service District Training Center would like to congratulate Cody Cheatwood for passing the NREMT Cognitive Test to become a licensed Advanced Emergency Medical Technician.
Coming to JPASD with a law enforcement background, Cody finds a new way to positively impact the community by providing exceptional emergency medical care to the residents of Jackson Parish as an Advanced Level Provider.
The Jackson Parish Ambulance Service District encourages all Jackson Parish First Responders to allow us to assist in any pre-hospital emergency care education to better serve our residents.
After being closed for the past several days in celebration of the Thanksgiving holiday weekend, both the Jonesboro and Chatham branches of the Jackson Parish Library will reopen on Monday, December 1st.
See below for the activity schedule at both branches for the month of December as well as the Bookmobile Schedule.
This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named or shown in photographs or video as suspects in a criminal investigation, or arrested and charged with a crime, have not been convicted of any criminal offense and are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Dustie S. Frederick (Natchitoches, LA) – Possession of Schedule IV John Temple (Logansport, LA) – Driving Under Suspension for DWI, Improper Lane Usage, DWI – 3rd Offense Bryan D. Wilson (Chatham, LA) -Flight from an Officer, DWI – 3rd Offense Brittain Y. Barnes (Jonesboro, LA) – Execution of Sentence Joshua W. Searcy (Jonesboro, LA) – Outside Agency Warrant – Winn Parish Larico Gland (Jonesboro, LA) – Reckless Operation, DWI, Aggravated Damage to Property Kamryn Searcy (Ruston, LA) – Possession of Schedule I CDS, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, No Proof of Insurance Michael Love (Ruston, LA) – Possession of Schedule II, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia Jimmy Caskey Jr. (North Hodge, LA) -Outside Agency Warrants, Domestic Abuse Battery with Injury, Second Degree Kidnapping Lorraine Hart (Jonesboro, LA) – Principal to First Degree Rape, Trafficking of Children for Sexual Purposes Dakota S. Henderson (Jonesboro, LA) – Aggravated Battery, Home Invasion, Speed Limit Chase Pittman (Jonesboro, LA) – Theft Richard Eugene (Eros, LA) – Failure to Register Devante Johnson (Ruston, LA) – Unauthorized Entry of an Inhabited Dwelling Jonathan Ashcraft (North Hodge, LA) – Outside Agency Warrant on Violation of Protective Order, Outside Agency Warrant on Theft of less than $1,000.00, Tail Lamp Required, Flight from an Officer Paige Netherland (Quitman, LA) – Criminal Tresspass, Possession of a Firearm by a Felon, Simple Escape, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Simple Burglary Michael Lowe (Quitman, LA) – Simple Burglary Mark Fenn (Chatham, LA) – Domestic Abuse Battery Lawrence Tatum (Jonesboro, LA) – Theft
Thanksgiving, Run-Flat Tires, and the Gospel According to Mom
My friend bought her daughter a car. Not a fancy one—no heated seats, no moonroof, no button that launches it into orbit. Just a good ol’ reliable vehicle to get her from dorm room to dining room and back again for those sacred college holidays like Thanksgiving, when students return home to eat, sleep, and pretend they still remember how to do laundry.
One day, the daughter had a flat tire. No big deal—she had AAA on speed dial, right next to “Mom” and “Pizza.” She called the flat tire hotline and waited for the cavalry. The AAA guy showed up, popped the trunk, checked under the mat, looked in the glove box, maybe even peeked under the seats. No spare tire. No jack. No tools. Just a lot of empty space and one very confused roadside technician.
Cue the anguished phone call to Mom: “Mom! There’s no spare tire! I’m stranded! The car is broken! The dealership sold us a lemon! I’m going to die here next to the Chick-fil-A!”
Now, I know this mom. She’s articulate. She’s passionate. She’s fluent in “colorful metaphors.” I’ve heard her use her big girl words before, and let’s just say she doesn’t need a thesaurus when she’s fired up. She called the dealership and unleashed a verbal tsunami. Somewhere in the background, I imagine the receptionist ducking under the desk and whispering, “It’s her. The metaphor lady.”
Just as Mom was winding up for Round Two, the dealership guy calmly asked, “Ma’am, is your daughter’s car a 2023 model?”
“Yes,” she snapped.
“Well,” he said, “that car comes with run-flat tires. You can drive up to 50 miles on a flat. There’s no spare because you don’t need one.”
Silence.
Then a dial tone.
I don’t think Mom apologized. I think she just hung up and prayed the Holy Spirit would interpret her sighs.
Now, I’m grateful this wasn’t my story. But let’s be honest—I drive cars with spare tires. I think. I mean, I assume they’re in there somewhere. Probably under the mysterious carpet flap in the trunk next to the ancient granola bar and the rogue umbrella. Maybe I should check.
But this story made me laugh. It reminded me that sometimes we panic before we understand. We yell before we read the manual. We assume the worst before we remember that God might’ve already built in a solution.
And that brings me to Thanksgiving. It’s almost here. Can you believe how fast this year flew by? I blinked and it was Advent again. I’m thankful for so much—especially for you, dear reader. You’ve prayed for us, encouraged us, and shared stories that have become sermons, devotionals, and the occasional punchline.
I’m thankful for my church family, my neighbors, and the beautiful traffic chaos of life in Ruston, Louisiana. I’m thankful for the characters in my life—especially the ones who call me with flat tire emergencies and teach me new vocabulary.
So, this Thanksgiving, take a moment. Look at life through grateful eyes. Even the flat tires. Even the missing spares. Even the run-flat moments when you realize God’s grace lets you keep going, even when you feel deflated.
Thank you for being part of the ride. And if you’re wondering whether your car has a spare… maybe check before you call Mom.
This past Thursday, we sat down at tables filled with food we usually don’t see any other time of year. Turkey, ham, cakes and pies and all the trimmings are the meal that most celebrants enjoy with family and friends on this special day.
The more I thought about Thanksgiving and all I have to be thankful for, the more thoughts and special memories and miracles that have occurred cropped up in my mind that gives the day special meaning for me.
Where do I start? Here I sit tapping out a column, one that I’ve done every week for the past 53-plus years. I’m thankful that with 88 years under my belt, I still have the ability to do that which I love. I still look forward to being able to string words together that make a modicum of sense, a gift that the Good Lord gave me.
I think of the family I’ve been blessed to have around me. My wife, Kay Lynn, is to me everything I could ask for in a life mate. Her inward strength, her strong Christian faith, her taking the lead in making our home a nice and quiet place to wake up to every morning is invaluable to me and I hope and pray I never take all she does for granted. I’m thankful for my two daughters, Cathy and Kayla. Both are married with families of their own who live away; Cathy in Baton Rouge and Kayla in O’Fallon, Missouri. Cathy is a quiet pillar of strength as she and husband, Bill, are caretakers of Billy, their autistic son. I can’t imagine anyone else with the love and patience for a special child these two have toward Billy.
Kayla, the younger of the two, is mother to four and grandmother to six. Almost two years ago, her loss of weight and overall feeling sick sent her to the doctor for a diagnosis that set the whole family on its heels. She was diagnosed with metastatic cancer that had invaded several organs in her body. Without chemo, she was given one month to live.
Last week, she and husband Keith, came for a visit with us, the first time we had seen her since her diagnosis. With the help of a team of doctors that took her under their wings and lots of prayers from all over, she is virtually cancer free today. What a blessing it was to be able to see her, hug her and marvel at the walking miracle she is today.
Then there’s my “bonus” daughter. When Kay and I married 41 years ago, she brought along 10 year old Melissa. I became her “Pop” and what a genuine pleasure it has been to be surrogate dad to this little blond bundle. Melissa is married to Ross and they have three daughters. I was there each time their dad brought them down the hall at the hospital to introduce us to them. I’ve been their “Papaw” ever since they could mouth the word and they are as precious to me as my other grandchildren.
As for me, the years have added some challenges I have to face. Back and leg issues mean that to walk, a cane and walker are constant companions. The things I had always enjoyed and were such a vital part of my life, hunting and fishing are now fading memories.
I have had several friends offer to take me to a deer stand, set me up and if I got a deer, they would take care of it for me; I wouldn’t have to do a thing. As much as I appreciate the gestures, I have declined each time because my mind set is that if I can’t do it like I always did earlier, I am content to rely on my memories of the success and enjoyment I have had.
Glancing up at the antlers and turkey beards and spurs hanging on my wall while I’m writing about someone downing a nice buck or boss gobbler are memories that are almost as nice as being there myself.
CANEY LAKE – Bass are in the deeper holes with soft plastics and crank baits picking up some nice fish. Crappie are best suspended over deep water on shiners and jigs. 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 – Crappie fishing has been good fishing jigs or shiners near the bottom. Bass fishing has been best flipping around brush. Some really nice-sized fish are being caught. For best.information, contact the Honey Hole at 323-8707. OUACHITA RIVER – The water is still quite low because of lock and dam problems down stream. Bass are best fishing shad imitation in he run-outs; crappie are around the tops in the river in 14 foot water with some big slabs caught on shiners and jigs. For latest information, contact the Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707. LAKE D’ARBONNE – Bass are best over deeper water in the channels. Jigs and crank baits are picking up some. Crappie are suspended over deep water in the channels edges on jigs and shiners. 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 are suspended in deep water and have started moving toward the deep holes out from the spillway. Shiners and jigs picking up some nice fish. Bass are hitting crank baits and soft plastics in deeper water. For latest information, call Kel’s Cove at 927-2264 or Terzia Tackle at 278-4498. LAKE POVERTY POINT – Catfish are good while crappie have improved fishing around the with jigs and shiners on the south end. Bass are slow. For information, contact the marina at 318/878-0101. LAKE YUCATAN – The lake level is low. Catfishing is good, buffalo are being caught in nets while bass and crappie are slow. For info call Surplus City Landing at 318/467-2259.
I hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving Day. Be honest; did you stuff yourself?
Most of us over indulge; the entree and desserts from Thanksgiving festivities are hard to resist. There’s time enough for willpower (or is that won’t power?) after the holidays. Personally, I hope you had your fill.
Jesus’ Disciples were filled with His Holy Spirit. They received His power and boldness during a Pentecost festival.
“When the day of Pentecost had come, they were all together in one place. And suddenly a noise like a violent rushing wind came from heaven, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. And tongues that looked like fire appeared to them, distributing themselves, and a tongue rested on each one of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with different tongues, as the Spirit was giving them the ability to speak out (Acts 2:1-4 NASB).”
The Holy Spirit’s filling has enabled, equipped and empowered God’s servants.
“For truly in this city there were gathered together against Your holy Servant Jesus, whom You anointed, both Herod and Pontius Pilate, along with the Gentiles and the peoples of Israel, to do whatever Your hand and purpose predestined to occur. And now, Lord, look at their threats, and grant it to Your bond-servants to speak Your word with all confidence, while You extend Your hand to heal, and signs and wonders take place through the name of Your holy Servant Jesus.’ And when they had prayed, the place where they had gathered together was shaken, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak the word of God with boldness (Acts 4:27-31 NASB).”
To have your Business Services, Job Opportunities, Items for sale, Wanted to Buy, and Public / Legal Notices published – send an email to: jpjjacksonla@gmail.com or call 318-480-1206. Possible costs are dependent on the content.
SHERIFF’S SALE
PARISH OF JACKSON STATE OF LOUISIANA
ONSLOW BAY FINANCIAL vs 37903
SHAWN ETHAN BARR A/KIA SHAWN E BARR A/KIA SHAWN BARR
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 10th day of DECEMBER, 2025. Between the hours governing judicial sales, the following property to wit:
LOT 2 OF THE DEERFIELD SUBDIVISION, SITUATED IN JACKSON PARISH, LOUISIANA.
Seized as the property of the above named defendant and will be sold to satisfy said Writ and all cost, sale to be made for cash WITHOUT the benefit of appraisal.
ANDY BROWN, SHERIFF EX-OFFICIO, AUCTIONEER
SHERIFF’S SALE
PARISH OF JACKSON STATE OF LOUISIANA
BOKF, N.A.
VS 37927
CHRISTOPHER LEE RICE
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 7th day of JANUARY, 2026. Between the hours governing judicial sales, the following property to wit:
BEGINNING AT THE INTERSECTION OF THE EAST LINE OF THE SE 1/4 OF NW 1/4, SECTION 22, TOWNSHIP 17 NORTH, RANGE 3 WEST AND THE WEST LINE OF THE U.S. HIGHWAY 167 AND RUN SOUTH 40 DEGREES 45′ WEST ALONG THE WEST LINE OF SAID HIGHWAY FOR A DISTANCE OF 80 FEET FOR A STARTING POINT. FROM STARTING POINT RUN SOUTH 39 DEGREES 00′ WEST ALONG THE WEST LINE OF U.S. HIGHWAY 167 FOR A DISTANCE OF 210 FEET, THENCE NORTH 51 DEG 00′ WEST FOR A DISTANCE OF 210 FEET, THENCE NORTH 39 DEG 00′ EAST PARALLEL TO THE WEST LINE OF SAID HIGHWAY FOR A DISTANCE OF 210 FEET, THENCE SOUTH 51 DEG 00′ EAST TO STARTING POINT, A DISTANCE OF 210 FEET. ALL IN THE SE 1/4 OF NW 1/4, SECTION 22, TOWNSHIP 17 NORTH, RANGE 3 WEST, CONTAINING 1.0 ACRE. LESS AND EXCEPT A 0.171 ACRE TRACT TRANSFERRED BY DEED FILED IN CONVEYANCE BOOK 333, AT PAGE 213 OF THE RECORDS OF JACKSON PARISH, LOUISIANA, TOGETHER WITH ALL IMPROVEMENTS AND APPURTENANCES THEREUNTO BELONGING. A 0.131 ACRE TRACT OF LAND DESIGNATED TRACT “2”, ON THAT CERTAIN PLAT OF SURVEY FOR MR. TROY JOHNSTON DATED JULY 15, 2008, BY W. G. KIRKLAND, P,L.S., SITUATED IN THE SE 1/4 OF NW 1/4 SECTION 22, TOWNSHIP 17 NORTH, RANGE 3 WEST, LAND DISTRICT NORTH OF RED RIVER, JACKSON PARISH, LOUISIANA AND BEING MORE SPECIFICALLY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS, TO-WIT:
COMMENCE AT A 3/4″ IRON ROD (SET) ON THE WEST LINE OF STATE PROJECT #023-06-0050 (U,S. HIGHWAY NO. 167) SAID IRON ROD BEING 2880.69 FEET NORTH AND 2395.87 FEET EAST OF A 2″ IRON SHAFT MARKING THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF SECTION 22, TOWNSHIP 17 NORTH, RANGE 3 WEST,
THENCE LEAYING SAID WEST LINE PROCEED NORTH 57 DEG 49 MINUTES 54 SECONDS WEST 233.08 FEET TO A 3/4″ IRON ROD (SET); THENCE PROCEED NORTH 30 DEG 48 MINUTES 14 SECONDS EAST 126.32 FEET TO A 3/4″ IRON ROD (SET); THENCE PROCEED NORTH 53 DEGREES 26 MINUTES 31 SECONDS EAST 158.09 FEET TO A 3/4″ REBAR (FOUND) MARKING THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF THE SHANNA LYNN STROZIER PROPERTY FOR THE POINT OF BEGINNING OF THE 0.131′ ACRE TRACT OF LAND HEREINAFTER DESCRIBED; THENCE PROCEED SOUTH 80 DEGREES 55 MINUTES 01 SECONDS EAST 89,70 FEET TO A 3/4″‘1RON ROD (SET); THENCE PROCEED SOUTH 53 DEGREES 05 MINUTES 52 SECONDS EAST 97.47 FEET TO A 3/4″ IRON ROD (SET) ON THE WEST LINE OF STATE PROJECT #023-06-0050 (U.S. HIGHWAY NO.167); THENCE PROCEED ALONG THE WEST LINE OF STATE PROJECT #023-06-0050 (U.S. HIGHWAY NO. 167) SOUTH 36 DEG 31 MINUTES 08 SECONDS WEST 41.86 FEET TO A 3/4″ IRON ROD (FOUND) MARKING THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF THE SHANNA LYNN STROZIER PROPERTY; THENCE PROCEED NORTH 53 DEG 05 MINUTES 52 SECONDS WEST ALONG THE NORTH LINE OF THE SHANNA LYNN STROZIER PROPERTY, 177.08 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING CONTAINING 0.131 ACRES AND BEING SUBJECT TO ALL SERVITUDES OF RECORD OR OF USE. ALL AS PER PLAT OF SURVEY DATED JULY 15, 2008 BY WALTER GLEN KIRKLAND, PROFESSIONAL LAND SURVEYOR, LOUISIANA REGISTRY NO. 4759.
A 0.428 ACRE TRACT OF LAND, DESIGNATED TRACT “1” ON THAT CERTAIN PLAT OF SURVEY FOR MR. TROY JOHNSTON DATED JULY 15, 2008, BY W.G. KIRKLAND, P.L.S., SITUATED IN THE SE 1/4 OF NW 1/4, SECTION 22, TOWNSHIP 17 NORTH, RANGE 3 WEST, LAND DISTRICT NORTH OF RED RIVER, JACKSON PARISH, LOUISIANA AND BEING MORE SPECIFICALLY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS, TO-WIT:
BEGIN AT A 3/4″ IRON ROD (SET) ON THE WEST LINE OF STATE PROJECT #023-06-0050 (U.S. HIGHWAY NO. 167) SAID IRON ROD BEING 2880.69 FEET NORTH AND 2395.87 FEET EAST OF A 2″ IRON SHAFT MARKING THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF SECTION 22, TOWNSHIP 17 NORTH, RANGE 3 WEST, THENCE LEAVING SAID WEST LINE PROCEED NORTH 57 DEGREES 49 MINUTES 54 SECONDS WEST 233.08 FEET TO A 3/4″ IRON ROD (SET); THENCE PROCEED NORTH 30 DEGREES 48 MINUTES 14 SECONDS EAST 126.32 FEET TO A 3/4″ IRON ROD (SET) ; THENCE PROCEED NORTH 53 DEGREES 26 MINUTES 31 SECONDS EAST 158.09 FEET TO A 3/4″ REBAR (FOUND) MARKING THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF THE SHANNA LYNN STROZIER PROPERTY; THENCE PROCEED SOUTH 37 DEG 31 MINUTES 24 SECONDS WEST ALONG THE WEST LINE OF THE SHANNA LYNN STROZIER PROPERTY 210.00 FEET TO A 3/4″ IRON ROD (FOUND); THENCE PROCEED SOUTH 53 DEG 05 MINUTES 51 SECONDS EAST ALONG THE SOUTH LINE OF THE SHANNA LYNN STROZIER PROPERTY 180.77 FEET TO A 3/4″ IRON ROD (FOUND) ON THE WEST LINE OF STATE PROJECT (#023-06-0050 (U.S. HIGHWAY NO. 167); THENCE PROCEED ALONG THE WEST LINE OF STATE PROJECT #023-06-0050 (U.S. HIGHWAY NO.167) SOUTH 36 DEG 31 MINUTES 08 SECONDS WEST 2.50 FEET TO A RIGHT OF WAY MONUMENT
(FOUND) AND SOUTH 10 DEG 52 MINUTES 17 SECONDS WEST 50.56 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING CONTAINING 0.428 ACRES AND BEING SUBJECT TO ALL SERVITUDES OF RECORD OR OF USE. ALL AS PER PLAT OF SURVEY DATED JULY 15, 2008 BY WALTER GLEN KIRKLAND, PROFESSIONAL LAND SURVEYOR, LOUISIANA REGISTRY NO. 4759.
Seized as the property of the above named defendant and will be sold to satisfy said Writ and all costs, sale to be made for cash WITH the benefit of appraisal.
ANDY BROWN, SHERIFF EX-OFFICIO AUCTIONEER
SHERIFF’S SALE
PARISH OF JACKSON STATE OF LOUISIANA
FIRST HORIZON BANK vs 37730 DARRY LAMAR NELSON AND JUDITH ANN HUMBYRD NELSON
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 14th day of JANUARY, 2026 Between the hours governing judicial sales, the following property to wit:
ALL THAT PART OF THE NE 1/4 OF SW 1/4 OF THE SE 1/4 OF SECTION 30, TOWNSHIP 16 NORTH, RANGE 1 WEST, LAND DISTRICT NORTH OF RED RIVER, JACKSON PARISH, LOUISIANA, LYING SOUTH OF THE CENTERLINE OF LOUISIANA HIGHWAY 146, CONTAINING 1.3 ACRES, MORE OR LESS, TOGETHER WITH ALL IMPROVEMENTS THEREON, APPURTENANCES THEREUNTO BELONGING AND COMPONENT PARTS. AND A TRACT OF LAND IN THE SOUTH 1/2 OF THE SW 1/4 OF THE SE 1/4 OF SECTION 30, TOWNSHIP 16 NORTH, RANGE 1 WEST, LAND DISTRICT NORTH OF RED RIVER, JACKSON PARISH, LOUISIANA, BEING MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS, TO-WIT: COMMENCING AT AN ANGLE IRON FOUND MARKING THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF SAID SECTION 30, THENCE ALONG THE SOUTH LINE THEREOF NORTH 89 DEGREES 51 43″ WEST 2635.82 FEET TO THE UN-MONUMENTED SOUTH QUARTER CORNER; THENCE ALONG THE WEST LINE OF SAID SOUTH 1/2 OF SW 1/4 OF SE 1/4, NORTH O DEGREES 17 ’30” WEST 658.48 FEET TO THE UN-MONUMENTED NORTHWEST CORNER THEREOF; THENCE ALONG THE NORTH LINE THEREOF, SOUTH 89 DEGREES 54′ 07” EAST 467.28 FEET TO THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF THE GLADYS NELSON ESTATE 2 ACRE TRACT; THENCE CONTINUE ON THE LAST DESCRIBED COURSE, AND ALONG THE NORTH LINE OF SAID 2 ACRE TRACT, 295.68 FEET TO A 3/4″ IRON PIPE SET MARKING THE NORTHEAST CORNER THEREOF, AND THE POINT OF BEGINNING, THENCE ALONG THE NORTH LINE OF SAID SOUTH 1/2 OF SW 1/4 OF SE 1/4, SOUTH 89 DEGREES 54′ 07” EAST 208.71 FEET TO A 3/4″ IRON PIPE SET; THENCE DUE SOUTH 208.71 FEET TO A 3/4′ IRON PIPE SET; THENCE NORTH 89 DEGREES 54′ 07” WEST 208,71 FEET; THENCE DUE NORTH 208.71 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING, CONTAINING 1.00 ACRES OF LAND, TOGETHER WITH ALL IMPROVEMENTS THEREON, APPURTENANCES THEREUNTO BELONGING AND COMPONENT PARTS, SITUATED IN JACKSON PARISH, LOUISIANA; SUBJECT TO RESTRICTIONS, SERVITUDES, RIGHTS-OF-WAY AND OUTSTANDING MINERAL RIGHTS OF RECORD AFFECTING THE 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, WITH the benefit of appraisal.
ANDY BROWN, SHERIFF EX-OFFICIO, AUCTIONEER
PUBLIC NOTICE
Jackson Parish Police Jury Special Called Meeting Minutes November 21, 2025
The Jackson Parish Police Jury held a Special Called Meeting on Friday, November 21, 2025, at 12:00 PM in the Nathaniel Zeno Jr., meeting room, 160 Industrial Drive, Jonesboro, Louisiana. Members Present: Mrs. Tarneshala Cowans, Mrs. Amy Magee, Ms. Regina Rowe, Mrs. Sheketia Combs, President Todd Culpepper, Mr. Lewis Chatham, and Mr. Keith Burris. Absent: None. Also present: Mrs. Nia Evans Watkins, Secretary-Treasurer, Mr. Brad Roller, Operations Manager, and Mr. Wayne Anderson, Assistant Operations Manager. President Mr. Culpepper called the meeting to order. Mrs. Magee gave the invocation and Ms. Rowe led in the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. Mr. Culpepper called for public comments. There were no public comments Motion- Ms. Rowe, seconded Mr. Burris to approve/adopt the Sheriff’s Special Election Proclamation. Motion carried. Motion- Mr. Burris, seconded Ms. Rowe to adopt and approve the 2025 budget amendments and 2026 budget for the Jackson Parish Library. Motion carried. Motion- Ms. Rowe, seconded by Mr. Chatham to approve the proposed 2026 general fund budget for the Jackson Parish Recreation board. Motion carried. Motion- Mrs. Cowans, seconded by Mrs. Combs to adopt the minutes from the November 10, 2025, Policy and Personnel committee meeting. Motion carried. Motion- Mrs. Cowans, seconded by Mrs. Combs to adopt the minutes from the November 19, 2025, Finance Committee meeting. Motion carried. Motion- Mr. Chatham, seconded by Mrs. Combs to renew the 2-year contract for Mrs. Nia E. Watkins, Secretary-Treasurer as recommended by the Finance Committee and the Personnel Committee. Motion carried. Motion- Mr. Chatham, seconded by Mrs. Magee to appoint Mr. Tim Atkins to the Jackson Parish Recreation Board to represent District 2. Motion carried. Motion- Mrs. Combs, seconded by Mrs. Magee to appoint Mrs. Khiana Loyd to the Museum board to represent District 4. Motion carried. Motion- Ms. Rowe, seconded by Mr. Burris to adjourn. Motion carried.
PROCLAMATION WHEREAS, The Jackson Parish Police Jury has received official notification from the Louisiana Secretary of State of the resignation of the Sheriff of Jackson Parish, effective November 14, 2025. WHEREAS, the resignation has created a vacancy in the office of Sheriff, and the unexpired term of office in which the said vacancy exits exceed one year. NOW THEREFORE, THE Jackson Parish Police Jury does hereby issue the Proclamation pursuant to LA R.S.18;602(E)(2)(a) ordering a special election to fill the said vacancy of Jackson Parish Sheriff for the remainder of the unexpired term as follows: (1) THE Special Primary Election shall be held on May 16, 2026; and (2) The Special General Election shall be held on June 27, 2026; The dates for qualifying for the candidates in the Special Election shall be February 11, 12, and 13, 2026. This Proclamation shall be published in the official journal of Jackson Parish and a copy thereof shall be sent by certified or registered mail to the clerk of the Second Judicial District Court of Jackson Parish, Louisiana Secretary of State as required by law. CERTIFICATE I, Nia Evans, Secretary/Treasurer of the Jackson Parish Police Jury, hereby certify that the above and foregoing is a true and correct copy of the Proclamation passed by the Jackson Parish Police Jury during the meeting held on November 21, 2025, for which meeting due public notice was given and a quorum was present. Jonesboro, Louisiana, this 21st day of November, 2025
PUBLIC NOTICE
Village of Chatham Council Special Called Meeting Minutes November 19, 2025
The Village of Chatham held a special call meeting on November 19, 2025, at 6:00pm. The meeting was called to order, and roll was taken with the following members present: Mayor Gregory C. Harris, Councilmembers Bernadean James, Toni Malone and Sue Proffer. Several members of the public were in attendance and the Village Attorney Gary Nunn. The pledge of allegiance was led by Toni Malone and prayer was given by Bernadean James. Councilmember Malone requested that Village Clerk, Lillian Pittman, read the Collection and Disconnect Policy out loud. After reading of the policy, Councilmember Malone stated that it had come to the council’s attention that sometimes the policy was not being followed on direction of the mayor. She stated that all office personnel and employees must follow the policies and procedures that are put in place. She further stated that we cannot pick and choose who gets cut off and who doesn’t. Councilmember Malone brought up the recent issue of a customer removing a lock from his meter which had been locked for non-payment. The meter was relocked and an employee was told to unlock the meter and turn the water back on even though the customer still owed money and had tampered with the water meter. Councilmember Malone stated that in her opinion this was not acceptable. She further stated that she did not want to see any of them get charged with malfeasance. Mayor Harris stated that he does deviate from policy sometimes because sometimes people get in a bind, but he has never given away water. He stated that this wasn’t the first person he’s helped and would not be the last person. Mayor Harris said the customer was going to pay $300.00 and pay the rest of his bill when he got his check on the first. Mayor Harris stated he did tell the customer he could get in trouble for removing the lock. Mayor Harris said the customer did not destroy the lock; the customer took it off and laid it in the water box. Mayor Harris said he took it upon himself, that since the customer had paid $300.00 and promised to pay the balance on the first and the customer understood that if balance was not paid then he would be cutoff without any more questions. Mayor Harris said in the past he has turned people back on and that they have paid like they have said they would. Mayor Harris asked if there was anyone who had been given water that hadn’t paid. Clerk, Lillian Pittman, gave a statement on how the cut off list was currently being handled: That the list is printed and the mayor looks over the list, and he tells her who can and cannot be turned off, who he will call. Mayor Harris asked the clerk if those people come in and pay. The clerk responded most of the time they do and sometimes they do not. Bobbi Chatham brought up the records of the lists. The clerk was asked to retrieve them. Ms. Pittman stated the records went back to August 2025. Ms. Pittman, after receiving advice from Gary Nunn, read off the names of who the mayor said not to turn off and the reasons why. She was asked about the other names on the list and she said that those people had been turned off. Mayor Harris was asked how he picked out the ones that got turned off or not turned off. Mayor Harris responded that the cut off list looked at and if someone who is not consistently on the list is called and some he knows will pay if he calls are called and told to leave on. Councilmember Malone wanted to know if every customer was called. She was informed by the mayor that not everyone was called. Councilmember Malone asked Village Attorney, Gary Nunn, for an opinion of the action taken by Mayor Harris versus the policy in place. Mr. Nunn responded that if there is a requirement of time (for payment), built into the policy, that is all that is allowed. If policy says to turn off a customer, then the customer should be turned off. He stated that the Mayor and Council could get into trouble for turning off some customers and not others. Mr. Nunn asked if a notice was sent letting customers know what day cutoffs would take place. The clerk responded that the notice was printed on the bills. Councilmember Malone made the comment that the purpose of the meeting was to have everyone one around the table and all the employees to not be in violation and not having the potential to get in trouble. The public made multiple comments. One member of the public asked Mayor Harris directly if he (Mayor Harris) told an employee to go against the ordinance by turning water back on for the customer who took the lock out, breaking the law. Mayor Harris responded that he didn’t believe he made anyone violate the law. Village employee, David Risher, asked Mayor Harris “Was I or was I not told, if I didn’t want to do my job, then you didn’t need me?” Mr. Risher also stated that the mayor pulled him into a meeting and told him that if he (David Risher) did not do what he was told that there would be consequences. David Risher gave additional examples of the mayor asking him to go against policy and ordinances. Gary Nunn made comments that the mayor is like the CEO of the Village and the council was like the Board of Directors. He further stated that he (Mayor Harris) is given some discretion but must follow the law and ordinances. Mr. Nunn also stated that an employee cannot be threatened with their job if employee is following the law. Mayor Harris apologized for the way he has been handling things. He said his purpose was not to help himself but to help people. Councilmember Malone questioned Mayor Harris if he was going to continue go against the ordinances. Mayor Harris stated “If you read between the lines, does that sound like what I’m saying? I’m apologizing for doing this.” Mayor Harris reiterated that he was just trying to help people. Mayor Harris further explained that those he has allowed additional time and have promised to pay but didn’t were turned off or had meter pulled. He stated that he has never given water away. Councilmember Sue Proffer asked if the customer who had removed the lock from the water meter was off. She was informed that the customer’s water was still on. She asked if he had paid his balance and she was informed that he had not. She commented that it should be turned off. A motion was made by Toni Malone and seconded by Bernadean James and approved by all to have the cut off list reevaluated and be brought into compliance. A motion was made by Toni Malone and seconded by Sue Proffer and approved by all to adjourn the meeting.
ITEMS FOR SALE
LeBlanc Cypress Works – A stand-alone cooler box with a hinged top, complete with logo and/or exterior picture add-on capability, along with an outdoor chair and end table, is featured this month at LeBlanc Cypress Works. Other custom-made cypress or oak items, including benches, swings, gates, and fences, are available as well. Cost depends on the type of material used. For an estimate or to place an order, call Don LeBlanc at (318)-475-1161.
Cooler Box
Outdoor Chair
End Table
CAREER OPPORTUNITY
The Jackson Parish School District – If you have the skills and enthusiasm to make a difference, there is an opening for the following positions.
Grade 3-5 Special Education Teacher at Weston High School Substitutes – All Areas
Apply today through the Jackson Parish School District website at www.jpsb.us or contact the central office at (318) 259 – 4456 for more details.
Logan James Petre April 29, 2002 – November 22, 2025
Logan Petre, age 23, of Jonesboro, Louisiana, passed away on November 22, 2025. He was born on April 29, 2002, in Minden, Louisiana, and brought joy, laughter, and a bright spirit to all who knew him.
Logan was the beloved son of James Franklin Petre of Moberly, Missouri, and Chaylan Henderson Petre of Jonesboro, Louisiana. He was the proud brother of Ashlyn Petre and Randi Roberts, who loved him dearly.
Logan was known for his funny, goofy, and free-spirited personality. He had a remarkable gift for making people laugh without even trying, and his presence could brighten even the darkest day.
His handsome smile, kind heart, and joyful energy made him unforgettable to everyone who knew him. Logan lived life with an adventurous spirit—mud riding, exploring the outdoors, and enjoying the simple moments with family and friends. Logan had many friends throughout his life, but his closest friend of all was his sister, Ashlyn. Their bond was an unbreakable mix of best friends, protectors, and partners in all of life’s moments.
She was his constant, and he was hers. He was a wonderful son and a great brother, always showing love in his own playful, unique way. His laughter, silliness, and big-hearted spirit will forever be treasured.
Logan is survived by his parents, James Franklin Petre and Chaylan Henderson Petre; his sisters, Ashlyn Petre and Randi Roberts; his grandparents, Debbie and Edward Pepper; and his great-grandmother, Jessie Watts. He is also survived by a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family, and friends who loved him deeply and will carry his memory in their hearts forever Logan is preceded in death by his grandfather, Randy Henderson, and great grandfather, Malcolm Watts, his aunt, Autumn Wyatt-Henderson, and his uncle, Greg Coody, who now welcome him into eternal rest.
The Celebration of Life Service was held on Saturday, November 29, 2025 in the Paradise Funeral Home Chapel in Jonesboro, LA with Interment following in Zion Rest Cemetery in Jonesboro under the direction of Paradise Funeral Home.
Although his life ended far too soon, the love, joy, and memories Logan leaves behind will remain in the hearts of his family and friends forever.
Only a few days remain before one of the most anticipated days of the year arrives for those who reside in Jackson Parish and the surrounding area, as the 2025 edition of Christmas Wonderland in the Pines, dubbed the “Miracle on Main Street,” takes place on Saturday, November 29th, featuring a multitude of activities
The festivities begin with the “Ugly Sweater 5K Run”, under the direction of Quitman High School Cross Country coach Cindy Pardue, where participants will meet at the Jackson Parish Courthouse for registration at 7:00 am. The race is a benefit for DART, and participants, as well as spectators, are asked to donate toiletries, canned goods, coloring books, crayons, or any non-perishable items.
At 9:00 am, the Grand Marshal Coffee & Celebration in honor of the 2025 Christmas Wonderland in the Pines Parade Grand Marshal, Wilda Smith, will take place at the Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce office, located at 601 South Cooper Avenue in Jonesboro.
At 10:00 am, local entertainers will begin to present live entertainment at Veterans’ Park, located on the corner of Cooper and 6th Street in Jonesboro with vendors and food trucks also opening to the public along Court Street.
At 4:30 pm the streets of Jonesboro will be lined by young and old alike to watch the Christmas Wonderland in the Pines Parade, themed “Miracle on Main Street, with a spectacular fireworks show to follow at the Jonesboro Fair Grounds as soon as it gets dark enough.
Christmas Wonderland in the Pine Schedule
700 am: Registration for Ugly Sweater 5K Race 8:00 am: Ugly Sweater 5K Race Begins 9:00 am: Grand Marshal Coffee and Celebration 10:00 am: Live Entertainment at Veteran’s Park 10:00 am: Vendors and Food Trucks Open 4:30 pm: Christmas Wonderland in the Pines Parade 6:00 pm: Fireworks Display at Fairgrounds
Ask any Louisiana high school football coach what it means to still be playing during the Thanksgiving holidays, and the answer is always the same. They will tell you that it means that this has been a successful season.
That is because playing the day after “Turkey Day” means that a school has advanced to the quarterfinals of the LHSAA postseason, just two games shy of completing the journey on the “Road to the Dome”, referring to the Superdome in New Orleans, LA where the state championships of each “select” and “non-select” Division is played.
For Jonesboro-Hodge High School playing during the Thanksgiving holidays has an extra special meaning as well. It means the Tigers get another shot at defending Division IV state runner-up and 2025 District 1-1A champion Haynesville, who is the top-seeded team in this year’s postseason as well.
“Anyone who follows ‘small school’ football knows that to win our division’s state championship, you have to go through Haynesville,” said Blankenship. “We are looking forward to having another shot at beating them.”
Some may feel that Blankenship’s statement is just something that he is supposed to say. After all, who looks forward to playing Haynesville, the perennial power of what was Class A and now Division IV football?
The record shows that since the Louisiana High School Athletic Association (LHSAA) was founded in 1921 that through the 2024 football season that Haynesville has won 17 state championships (the last being in 2014) and 11 times have finished as state runner-up, including the last two seasons.
Added to the impressive credentials is that 47 straight times, Haynesville has made the playoffs, a streak that runs from 1979 to this season trailiing only John Curtis and Kentwood High Schools for most ever in the history of the LHSAA.
Since beginning play in 1907, Haynesville has won 862 games while losing only 310 and playing to a tie 34 more times, which tabulates to an incredible 73.67 winning percentage.
The majority of those victories come from father Alton “Red” Franklin and son David Franklin, who have led the Golden Tornado program since 1967, with “Red” as the elder Franklin was called, having a 34-year tenure and David taking the reins in 2002. Combined, the pair has 14 state titles and 6 runner-up finishes.
As far as the series history between JHHS and Haynesville goes, the Golden Tornado holds a 24-12-2 advantage, including a 46-0 victory in 2024 and a 43-0 win earlier this season, running their winning streak against the Tigers to 11 straight dating back to the Tigers’ last victory in 1980.
That was the season that the two teams played each other twice in the same season, as well, with JH and Haynesville playing to a 14-14 tie during the regular season and JHHS winning 26-25 in triple overtime in the playoffs.
Both teams come into the contest riding long winning streaks with #1 Haynesville completing an undefeated 10-0 regular season and winning their second round contest against Claiborne Parish rival Homer by a 36-19 margin. The District 1-1A champion has scored 553 points while giving up only 91 for an impressive 50.27 – 8.27 margin of victory per game average.
Jonesboro-Hodge, seeded #9 in the Division IV bracket, comes into the matchup with a 9-3 mark and having won six straight games, including a 44-20 victory over North Central and a 39-33 triumph over Vinton in the playoffs. The last loss suffered by the Tigers was the week six match-up against Haynesville.
So how in the world does Jonesboro-Hodge feel like it has any shot at this Haynesville team that has already given the Tigers their worst loss of the year the last two years in a row?
“We are not the same team that played Haynesville the first time around,” Blankenship quickly stated. “The first time we played them, we didn’t have Landon (Boston), and Jaquan (Qualls) was just really starting to get his feet wet.
The points are valid ones. Boston, who was forced to miss five games with a hamstring injury, has been a dynamo on both sides of the ball since his return, rushing for 648 yards on just 67 carries over the last six games for a 9.67 yards per carry average. More so, his presence in the backfield gives the Tigers a devastating one-two punch. When coupled with Quarterback Dakota Knox’s running capability, which has seen the senior signal caller rush for 1164 yards this season, the Tigers have demonstrated a tremendous ground game that seemingly gets better each week, culminating in 301 yard rushing against North Central and a season best 411 yards churned out on the ground against Vinton where both Boston and Knox rushed for over 190 yards each.
Qualls has been another major factor in the Tigers’ late-season success. After playing only spottily in the first four games, the Sophomore has become a force on both the offensive and defensive sides of the ball. Qualls has led the Tigers with 284 receiving yards over the last five games for an 18.93 per catch average. Included is his scoring five touchdowns. Defensively, he has 2 interceptions and a fumble recovery, and constantly breaks up passes from his cornerback position.
Earlier in the season, when the two teams met, the Tigers gained just 121 total yards and only 53 yards on the ground, while Haynesville ran at will, going over and around Tiger defenders when they had the ball as the Golden Tornado front line wreaked havoc with the Tigers’ front line. Blankenship expects a different story this time around.
“I am extremely pleased with the way our line play has come around,” said Blankenship. “They are playing the best they have as a group all year, and I fully expect them to give Haynesville the best battle they have seen so far.”
One final reason the Tigers have a chance to “shock the world,” as some say a JHHS victory would do, is that the team as a whole has much more confidence in their ability to win than the first time we played them.
“We have had so many games where we have fallen behind and come back and won that the guys have learned that they have what it takes to win, no matter what the situation,” beamed Blankenship. “Always before when we played Haynesville, we hoped we would win but felt like we had to do everything right.. This time, we have the confidence we can win even if things go against us during the game.”
Since 2011, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has been a formal cosponsor of Small Business Saturday, founded by American Express in 2010. It is an exciting and crucial part of the holiday season for small businesses.
Last year, shoppers came together to support their local communities, and Small Business Saturday drove an estimated $22 billion based on projections from U.S. consumer-reported spending. This is an excellent opportunity not only for entrepreneurs but for everyone to have a chance to support their local communities.
“Small Business Saturday is more than just a day on the calendar; it’s a call to action for every community,” said Justin Crossie, SBA South Central Regional Administrator. “By supporting our local businesses, we invest in the vitality of our neighborhoods while driving economic growth. Let’s come together this holiday season to celebrate and uplift the American entrepreneurs who are the backbone of our economy.”
Join the highly successful team of SBA and American Express in kicking off the 2025 holiday season- it starts with small business. Americans understand that small businesses contribute to their local neighborhoods, foster community spirit, employ more than half of our workforce, and are a significant economic engine both locally and nationally.
About 80% of small business owners say that the end-of-year spending by customers is critical for their bottom line. Every purchase at a small business can have a positive impact.
The Saturday after Thanksgiving and the entire holiday season embrace the opportunity to find unique gifts and experiences at local shops. If you prefer to shop online, you can purchase goods and services and meals from small businesses by utilizing their websites.
Let’s support our nation’s more than 36 million independent small businesses this Small Business Saturday.
About the U.S. Small Business Administration
The U.S. Small Business Administration makes the American dream of business ownership a reality. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow or expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more visit www.sba.gov.
The Jackson Parish School Board will hold its regularly scheduled monthly meeting on at 11:00 am on Monday, December 1st, in the Conference Room of the Jackson Parish School District Central Office, located at 315 Pershing Hwy. in Jonesboro.
Prior to the board members Gerry Mims (President), Wade McBride, Paulette Belton, Rick Barlow, Calvin Waggoner, Dennis Clary and Mary Saulters meeting in the general session, representatives of the Building & Grounds, Transportation, and Executive/Finance Committees will meet at 10:30 am.
Jackson Parish School Board Meeting Agenda
1. Invocation– Paulette Belton 2. Pledge of Allegiance – Calvin Waggoner 3. Call to Order 4. Consider approving the minutes as presented from the Regular Scheduled meeting held on November 3, 2025. 5. Recognize Amy Hay – Information on 2024-2025 School Performance Scores 6. Consider electing a Vice-President for 2026. 7. Consider approving the updated Disciplinary Hearing Officer (DHO) List. 8. Consider approving the updated Hearing Procedures for Employee Discipline. This policy shall govern the conduct of such hearings before a DHO within the school district. 9. Consider adopting items per the Committee Reports attached hereto. 10. Superintendent’s Comments 11. Adjourn
The Jackson Parish Police Jury held a Special Called meeting on Friday, November 21st in the Nathaniel Zeno, Jr. Meeting Room of the Jackson Parish Administrative Building, located at 160 Industrial Drive in Jonesboro.
Seven items were on the agenda for Jury Members Todd Culpepper (President), Amy Magee (Vice-President), Lewis Chatham, Sheketia Combs, Tarneshala “Niki” Cowans, Regina Rowe, and Keith Burris to consider.
The session began with the adoption of a Proclamation, pursuant to LA R.S.18;602(E)(2)(a) ordering a special election to fill the said vacancy of Jackson Parish Sheriff for the remainder of the unexpired term as follows:
(1) The Special Primary Election shall be held on May 16, 2026 (2) The Special General Election (Run off) shall be held on June 27, 2026
It was also deemed that the dates for qualifying for the candidates in the Special Election shall be February 11, 12, and 13, 2026.
PROCLAMATION
WHEREAS, The Jackson Parish Police Jury has received official notification from the Louisiana Secretary of State of the resignation of the Sheriff of Jackson Parish, effective November 14, 2025. WHEREAS, the resignation has created a vacancy in the office of Sheriff, and the unexpired term of office in which the said vacancy exits exceed one year. NOW THEREFORE, THE Jackson Parish Police Jury does hereby issue the Proclamation pursuant to LA R.S.18;602(E)(2)(a) ordering a special election to fill the said vacancy of Jackson Parish Sheriff for the remainder of the unexpired term as follows: (1) THE Special Primary Election shall be held on May 16, 2026; and (2) The Special General Election shall be held on June 27, 2026; The dates for qualifying for the candidates in the Special Election shall be February 11, 12, and 13, 2026. This Proclamation shall be published in the official journal of Jackson Parish and a copy thereof shall be sent by certified or registered mail to the clerk of the Second Judicial District Court of Jackson Parish, Louisiana Secretary of State as required by law.
The panel then agreed to accept the 2025 budget amendments and the 2026 budget for the Jackson Parish Library Board, as well as the Jackson Parish Recreation Board’s proposed general fund budget ending December 31, 2026.
After the minutes of the November 10, 2025, Policy and Personnel Committee meeting and the November 19, 2025, Finance Committee meeting were approved, the 2-year contract of Secretary-Treasurer, Nia Watkins, was renewed.
In final action, a pair of parish board appointments were made with Tim Atkins selected as District 2 representative to the Jackson Parish Recreation Board and Mrs. Khiana Loyd to the Museum board to represent District 4.
For complete minutes of the Special Meeting, go to the Classifieds Section of this edition of the Jackson Parish Journal.
The Jackson Parish Police Jury is slated to meet again on December 8th for its regularly scheduled monthly meeting.
