Note from Superintendent Carter: As we move into the final month of 2025, we’re excited to share our December Mission Memo with our Jackson Parish School District family. This month’s memo highlights important updates, celebrations, and reminders as we close out the semester and prepare for the new year. We encourage everyone—students, families, staff, and community members—to take a moment to read through the memo and stay connected with all the great things happening across our district. Thank you for your continued support and partnership.
Weston High School is pleased to announce the selections for the 2025 Homecoming Court, which features Colton Blundell and Jakayla Fourd as King and Queen. A week of festivities is planned for December 1-5, climaxed by presentations during a general assembly at 9:00 am on Thursday, December 4th, and again at 5:30 pm on Friday, December 5th, before the WHS varsity boys basketball game versus Lakeside High School.
WHS 2025 Homecoming Court
Senior Maids and Escorts: Hailey Chatham Penelope Ferguson Nia Williams Drew Browning Brandon Graham Grady Peevy
Junior Maids and Escorts: Bailey Brown Brooklyn Slaughter Jaylin Williams Ty Henderson Abram Toms Liam Weaver
Sophomore Maids and Escorts: Anna Shows Carlynn Waters Easton Borders Kolt Keiffer
Freshman Maids and Escorts: Camryn Ashley Gracie Gray Jacolby Lowe Alexander Woodward
Kindergarten Attendants: Laney Allen Hayne Hogue Jude Jones
2025 WHS Homecoming King and Queen Colton Blundell (l), Jakayla Fourd (r)
Louisiana Tech University has announced its 2025 Fall Quarter Honor Roll, which contains a large contingent of 23 students who call Jackson Parish home, including 17 who have earned designation to the President’s List.
Students whose names are followed by an asterisk on the list below earned recognition as members of the president’s honor list. That distinction signifies achievement of at least a 3.8 academic grade point average on a minimum of nine semester hours completed (100-level or higher), with no grade lower than a B.
To be eligible for the dean’s honor lists, a student is required to earn at least a 3.5 academic grade point average with no grade lower than a C on a minimum of nine semester hours completed (100-level or higher).
Courses yielding satisfactory/failure grades and courses audited do not count toward eligibility for either recognition. Only undergraduates with no incomplete grades are eligible to make either list.
LTU Honor Roll Members from Jackson Parish
Chatham: Jacob Gill*, Shelby Mccarty, Amya Myers* Hodge: Anna Worthington* Jonesboro: Renae Adams, Anslee Aldy*, Bryceton Aranda*, Noah Leach*, Makenzie Lowery, Madelyn Mcallister, Landon Mcdonald*, Gabriel Mcmillan*, Madison Patton*, Zachary Sefton*, Raelynn Shell, Nadia Siadek*, Jolea Simpson* Quitman: Kaylee Ford*, Bethany Leach*, Addison Robertson, Ryan Walker*, Elijah Walker*, Hunter Williams*
The Student/Athletes of the Week for November 16-22 from Jonesboro-Hodge, Quitman, and Weston High Schools have been selected. Sponsored by the Jackson Parish Hospital, the award recognizes an outstanding student/athlete from each school for their academic achievements and athletic accomplishments. Each award winner was chosen by select faculty and staff from the representative institutions.
Earning accolades this week are: Taden Thomas – Junior on the Quitman High School boys basketball team Teegan Hall – Freshman on the Weston High School girls’ basketball team Malik Nichols – Senior on the Jonesboro-Hodge High School football team
Join the Jackson Parish Hospital and the Jackson Parish Journal as we congratulate and applaud these athletes for their dedication and achievements in the classroom and through their outstanding athletic endeavors!
The Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office announces that Deputy Devotie Bailey has completed the demanding 12-week K-9 Trainer’s Course hosted by Thorn K-9, and is now a certified K-9 trainer.
During the course, Deputy Bailey and his K-9 partner, Drako, trained 12–14 hours a day and completed more than 300 tracks in a wide variety of conditions. They worked through difficult terrain, wooded areas, hard surfaces, and long roadway tracks, while training in all kinds of weather, such as heavy rain, high winds, to dry, drought-like conditions. All of this was done to prepare them for the real-world situations they may face while serving Jackson Parish.
Along with their tracking work, the team trained in tactical integration, working with tactical units in both indoor and outdoor environments. This included learning to move with teams, support high-risk operations, and operate within larger tactical units during complex scenarios. All of these skills strengthen the support the JPSO can provide across our community.
“This certification strengthens our agency’s ability to maintain a capable K-9 division and further prepares Deputy Bailey and K-9 Drako to serve our parish with confidence, courage, and compassion. Their training also equips them to assist neighboring agencies through mutual aid and joint training when needed, helping us build stronger regional partnerships.” – Jackson Parish Sheriff Brent Barnett
Representatives from the Future Farmers of America (FFA) chapters at Jonesboro-Hodge, Quitman, and Weston High Schools recently competed at the District 2 Career Development Event (CDE) held at Douglas Church in Ruston, LA on November 21st. Seven from Jackson Parish earned top awards and qualified for the Area 1 CDE that will be held at Louisiana Tech in Ruston, LA in December.
The 4th annual “Kranksgiving” Battle of the Bands was held on Saturday, November 22nd at Southwest High School in Little Rock, AR, featuring high school marching bands from Arkansas, Mississippi, Tennessee, and Louisiana, including the “Tropical Thunder” from Jonesboro-Hodge High School.
The event was not only an entertaining and educational event for the Tiger band, but also a profitable one as the “Tropical Thunder” came away with four awards, three first places, and a second place.
Proving their overall capability in every segment judged, now in its third year under the direction of Trey Porchay, the JHHS band was recognized with 1st Place awards in the Band, Drum Majors, and Auxiliary Divisions, along with the Drumline claiming a 2nd Place award.
The administration and staff of Forest Haven Nursing Home and Rehabilitation Center in Jonesboro is pleased to recognize six residents who have birthdays in November. Happy birthday wishes go to:
Barry Guidry, 69 (not pictured) Linda Reed, 76 Wilda Smith, 83 Joel Streets, 90 (not pictured) Robert Tabor, 74 Russell White, 77
Congratulations to each for “another round under the sun.”
The Jackson Parish Retired Teachers’ Association (JPRTA) recently hosted guest speaker, Mrs. Sharon Candler, at its November 18, 2025, meeting, where members gained valuable information on Medicare Enrollment options.
Members actively participated in a question-and-answer session, clarifying details and gaining personalized insights into enrollment options. A raffle was conducted where members whose numbers were drawn received gifts provided by Ms. Candler. Dr. Mason presented a quilt to Mrs. Candler, and Ms. Jones thanked her for the valuable information on Medicare.
The regular business meeting resumed after the guest speaker’s presentation. The group discussed changing the meeting schedule for 2026, upcoming JPRTA elections, updates on forthcoming legislative bills, and received copies of the organization’s Constitution. Additionally, members who had a birthday in October and those in November and December were acknowledged and given a birthday message compliments of Ms. Richards. Following the meeting, everyone enjoyed a light snack prepared by Ms. Richards and Ms. Irene Jones.
If you are a retired educator or retired employee of the Jackson Parish School District and would like to join our organization, contact Ms. Irene Jones, President at (318) 475-5517. Our next meeting is scheduled for January 20, 2026.
In the summer of 2021, a new neighbor moved into what had been a peaceful mobile home park in Coon Rapids, Minnesota, a suburb just north of Minneapolis. Until then, the residents of the mobile home park held regular barbecues and other outdoor gatherings when the cold Minnesota weather allowed. Their kids played outside and walked to and from the bus stop without the slightest hint of hesitation. The trailer park residents got along well with each other. That all changed when the new neighbor moved in.
The new neighbor was a bully who victimized the residents of the mobile home park. The bully chased them, taunted them, and sometimes attacked them. The residents were unable to relax even when they were inside their own homes because the bully peered through their windows and made sounds that they said became terrifying to them.
One day, 41-year-old Rachael Gross was carrying her groceries from her car to her home when the bully dropped down from her roof and knocked her to the ground. During the struggle that followed, the bully ripped her jacket before Rachael was able to escape into her house. Her groceries lay scattered on her front lawn.
The bully even followed Rachael to the nearby nursing home where she worked and to her favorite local restaurant. Each time, Rachael rushed inside to safety. The bully always stopped just shy of following her in.
During another attack, Rachael slung water from her water bottle onto the bully. The shock from the water gave her just enough time to get inside before the bully ran back toward her. After numerous attacks, Rachael and her neighbors began to carry sticks, brooms, golf clubs, and baseball bats anytime they went outside.
Rachael and her neighbors called the authorities on several occasions, but the bully continued to terrorize the neighborhood. Because Rachael was most often the target of the bully, her neighbors began to suspect that she was somehow helping him despite her emphatic denials. Rachael felt trapped.
She said, “I’m pretty stressed out and pretty anxious all the time. I can’t even have peace. I’m so exhausted. I hope this gets a solution and somebody comes to help so I don’t have to deal with this anymore, and so that we can all have a peaceful summer with our kids and our grandkids and actually have a barbecue and just relax.”
Summer turned into fall, and there was no relief from the bully. Parents had to walk their kids to and from the bus stop armed with a variety of weapons. The kids used their backpacks as shields. The neighborhood cancelled all of their usual outside activities, including trick-or-treating at Halloween.
For two years, the residents of the trailer park lived in fear of the bully.
In the fall of 2023, reports of the bullying ended. Rumors persist that someone in the mobile home park murdered the bully. Perhaps they were all involved in the murder conspiracy.
Some of the rumors go as far as to say that there is no evidence to be found because the residents ate the bully during a Thanksgiving celebration. The new neighbor, which plagued that mobile home park, was a wild turkey.
A total of 50 students at Jonesboro-Hodge Middle School earned designation on the A & B Honor Roll for the first nine weeks. For their dedication, hard work, and commitment to excellence, and in recognition and celebration of their exemplary academic performance, the outstanding students were awarded a trip to Louisiana Tech University for Education Day.
JHMS 4-H Spreads Holiday Cheer at Forest Haven Nursing Home
On November 20th, JHMS 4-H members and sponsors delivered 125 Thanksgiving cards to the residents at Forest Haven Nursing Home, bringing big smiles to those who were overjoyed by the act of kindness and remembrance.
“It is good to give thanks to the Lord, And to sing praises to Your name, O Most High; To declare Your lovingkindness in the morning, And Your faithfulness every night, On an instrument of ten strings, On the lute, And on the harp, With harmonious sound. For You, Lord, have made me glad through Your work; I will triumph in the works of Your hands (Psalm 92:1-4 NKJV).”
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.
Martha Allen Balch Ramsey January 18, 1945 – November 22, 2025
Martha Allen Balch Ramsey, age 80, of Quitman, Louisiana, passed away peacefully on November 22, 2025, in Jonesboro, Louisiana at Forest Haven Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.
Born on January 18, 1945, in Monroe, Louisiana, Martha was the daughter of Angus Allen Balch , Sr. and Cassie Lee Hill Balch of Swartz, Louisiana. Her childhood was marked by both challenge and courage; following her mother’s passing, Martha stepped into a motherly role for her younger brother at only 14 years old. This early calling to care for others shaped the woman she became—one marked by strength, compassion, and a heart devoted to service.
On August 18, 1962, at 17 years old, Martha married the love of her life, 19-year-old Clifford Carl Ramsey. Two years later, they began their family with the arrival of their daughter Cathy, followed by their daughter Donna Kay a few years later.
For 63 years, the two shared a deep and faithful partnership built on love, devotion, and unwavering commitment to family and faith. Martha was a strong woman of God and lived every day with a love for Jesus that guided her steps and touched all who knew her.
Known for her warm and welcoming spirit, Martha loved to cook and was happiest when her home was full of people. Anyone who walked through her door was welcomed as family, fed with her famous potato salad or spaghetti, and wrapped in the comfort she so naturally provided. She truly believed “the more, the merrier,” especially when it came to her grandsons’ friends or a car full of children headed to Wednesday night church.
A breast cancer survivor, Martha lived with quiet resilience and grace. Her legacy is one of nurturing love, steadfast faith, and a life spent serving others.
Martha is survived by her loving husband of 63 years, Clifford Carl Ramsey; her daughters Donna Kay Murphy (Shawn Murphy) of Quitman, Louisiana, and Cathy Pippin (Chad Pippin) of Panama City Beach, Florida; her beloved grandsons Dr. Zach Pippin (Dr. Kelly Pippin) of Covington, Louisiana; Max Pippin of Dallas, Texas; Joey Pippin (Dr. Melissa Pippin) of St. Louis, Missouri; Chase Murphy (Kaitlyn Murphy) of Quitman, Louisiana; and Dr. David Murphy (Sidney Murphy) of Ruston, Louisiana. She is also survived by her great-grandchildren, Natalie, Amelia, Jade, Jaxson, and Seth Pippin; Caroline, Julia, Tripp, and John Mark Murphy; and numerous nieces and nephews, all of whom she cherished deeply.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Angus Allen Balch, Sr., and Cassie Lee Hill Balch; her brother, Angus Allen Balch, Jr. (Sambo); and her sisters, Bonnie Tullos and Mary Lee Price.
The Life Celebration service was held on Tuesday, November 25th at Sweetwater Baptist Church in Quitman with Interment at Mulhearn Memorial Park Cemetery in Monroe, LA, under the direction of Paradise Funeral Home in Jonesboro.
Serving as pallbearers will be her grandsons—Zach Pippin, Max Pippin, Joey Pippin, Chase Murphy, and David Murphy—along with her son-in-law, Shawn Murphy.
The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development advises motorists to continue to remain cautious while traveling along Hwy 167 in Hodge, La, while road construction continues.
After beginning with the removal of the asphaltic road material and replacing it with a concrete mix base on the outside lane of Hwy 167 from near Pine Street in Hodge to the railroad crossing by Smurfit Westrock work has now begun on the inside northbound lane and center lane.
Both sides of the highway have been narrowed to one lane of traffic beginning at the intersection of Hwy 147 and Hwy 167 to around East Street in Hodge, with speed being restricted to 35 mph in the construction zone.
The Board of Aldermen for the Town of Jonesboro held their regularly scheduled monthly meeting on Tuesday, November 18th, in the Conference Room of the Jonesboro City Hall located at 128 Allen Avenue in Jonesboro.
The primary focus of the meeting was regarding the upcoming DEQ and Water Sector Project that will involve the rehabilitation and upgrade of the north oxidation pond and equipment.
By a 4-1 margin, the council voted to introduce Ordinance 2025-012 approving the DEQ & Water Sector Project and Ordinance 2025-013, which was in regard to a proposed Utility Rate increase. Voting for the ordinances were council members Robbie Siadek, Nia Evans, Tracy Ginn, and Robert Hunter, while Alderman Devin Flowers voted no.
Additional business handled was the approval of last month’s agenda and meeting minute,s along with Department head reports and final comments made by the panel and Mayor James “Spike” Harris.
Touchdown! Dakota Knox being congratulated by teammates following a score.
Just as the final second ticked off the clock to signify the end of Jonesboro-Hodge’s 39-33 Division IV second-round playoff victory over Vinton, lightning swept across the skyline to the north.
It was appropo.
For four hours, electricity had been abound, not only in the sky but on the field as well.
Early on, it was flashes of itremendous individual effort that took center stage as both #9 Jonesboro-Hodge and #8 Vinton moved up and down the field at will. to light up the scoreboard in the first quarter.
Then, with both squads coming back onto the field for the start of the second quarter, a streak of celestial brightness brought everything to a standstill as the referees called for a stoppage of play for a required 30 minutes, as ruled in the case of lighting being recorded within 8 miles of the stadium. Near the end of the mandatory delay of the game, the sky light up again, causing a reset of the watch clock and keeping both teams in the locker room while the fans sat patiently in the stands.
Then the rain came, bringing another indication as to what was to come, as when the two teams finally got a chance to play again, both poured on a torrent of scoring plays over the final three quarters of the competitive contest, powered by ground games that combined for 729 yards during the four-hour affair.
With the victory, JHHS improves to 9-3 on the year and advances to the Division IV quarterfinals among “non-select” schools, where they will face #1 seed Haynesville, next Friday for the second time this season, in an all District 1-1A matchup. Vinton, the District 6-2A champion, ends their best season since 2006 with a 9-3 record.
“It was every bit as good a battle as we expected it to be,” said JHHS head coach Terrance Blankenship, who has now led a team to the quarterfinals for the third time in his 13-year tenure and first since 2021. “We knew they had some really explosive players and could put points on the board, which they did but our guys did what they have all year and took control in the second half.”
Blankenship knew the Tiger defense would have its hands full attempting to stop Vinton tailback Jaiden Briggs, who entered the contest with over 2000 yards rushing and 30 touchdowns on the year. Briggs proved to be as good as advertised, accounting for 254 yards rushing and four TDs.
“That young man is a special back and gave us lots of problems all game,” complimented Blankenship. “Got to give our guys credit, though, they really did a good job of keeping him in check in the second half, which allowed us to gain the advantage.
First quarter flurry! It was JHHS that had the early advantage as after receiving the opening kickoff, the Tigers pounded their way down the field for 78 yards in just six plays to take a 7-0 lead when Dakota Knox plowed in from four yards out and Sadaar Stevens made the extra point. Vinton quickly knotted the score at 7-7 when Briggs burst past Tiger defenders for a 51-yard touchdown, setting up a second first-quarter score by JHHS when Landon Boston blasted through the line to score from 18 yards out to give the Tigers a 13-7 lead at the end of the first period.
Second quarter swoon! After the long delay, Vinton picked up where it left off when Briggs scored again, this time on a 32-yard jaunt that put the finishing touches on an 11-play 75-yard drive. Getting the ball back on their own 38-yard line, the Lions then mounted a 13-play 62-yard drive, climaxed by Briggs’ third touchdown of the first half, leading to the teams heading into the break with Vinton holding a 20-13 lead.
“Whatever it was, either the delay or the field now being wet, when we came back out, we didn’t execute very well on offense or defense,” said Blankenship.
Tigers take control! Where the second quarter was all Vinton, the third period belonged to the Tigers. As they have all season, JHHS came out of the break with a renewed intensity as the Tigers dominated Vinton on both sides of the ball. Three times JHHS got the ball and three times marched down the field for a touchdown, highlighted by a 75-yard sprint down the sidelines by Dakota Knox for the rushing touchdown of the season. Kyron Atkins would also score on a three-yard plunge, and Landon Boston would tally for the second time in the contest as well as the Tigers. Just as impressive was the effort by the Tiger defens,e which didn’t allow a first down in the quarter and limited Vinton to only 10 plays on three offensive possessions.
“The way the defense shut them down in the third quarter was the difference in the game,” said Blankenship. “They really stepped up when we needed it.”
The final frame was much like the first as both offenses had their way. Vinton was the first to put up points when quarterback Michael Lange ran for a 51-yard score, only to see JHHS come right back when Knox blasted in from four yards out to cap off a 5-play 40-yard drive. The Tigers got the opportunity to make the short drive when Vinton attempted an onside kick that slid off the side of the kicker’s foot, rolled forward for two yards, and then sliced back to the line of scrimmage before being downed.
Vinton responded again, as Briggs sprinted 36 yards for his fourth score of the game, leaving JHHS with a 39-33 lead. With 7:11 now remaining in the game, JHHS took possession at its own 30-yard line and methodically moved 68 yards down the field, seemingly ready to put the final nail in the coffin. Then potential disaster struck when JHHS fumbled at the 2-yard line, giving Vinton one final shot with 2:39 remaining in the game.
“I got a lump in my throat,” laughed Blankenship after the game. “I knew their guy could break it at any time, as he had done all game, so the last thing I wanted to happen was give him another chance.”
Fortunately, the Tiger defense stepped up again, as Tyson Burks intercepted a pass at the Vinton 30-yard line with 1:42 left in the game. JHHS then ran three “victory” formation plays, with Knox taking the snap and kneeling down to run out the clock.
JHHS ran for a season-best 409 yards on 44 carries as both Knox and Boston neared 200 yards in rushing. Knox ended the night with 193 yards and 3 TDs on 22 totes while Boston amassed 188 yards and 2 scores on just 14 carries before exiting the game with a gimpy ankle midway through the fourth quarter.
“As they have all year, both guys came through when we needed them,” said Blankenship. “But you can’t have that many yards on the ground without the line doing a great job, so got to give them props too.”
TEAM
1
2
3
4
FINAL
#9 JHHS (9-3)
13
0
20
6
39
#8 Vinton (9-3)
7
13
0
13
33
Scoring: JHHS: Knox 4 yd run (Stevens XP) VHS: Briggs 51 yd run (Eddison XP) JHHS: Boston 18 yd run (Kick NG) VHS: Briggs 32 yd run (Eddison XP) VHS: Briggs 4 yd run (Kick NG) JHHS: Atkins 3 yd run (2pt run NG) JHHS: Knox 75 yard run (Boston 2 pt run) JHHS: Boston 19 yd run (2 pt run NG) VHS: Lange 51 yd run (2 pt run NG) JHHS: Knox 3 yd run (2 pt run NG) VHS: Briggs 36 yd run (Kick NG)
With a multitude of state championships having been won in several sports over the past couple of years, Quitman High School has grown to be recognized as having one of the best all-around athletic programs in the state.
Now you can add their academic program to the list as well.
Recently, the Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE) released School and District Performance Scores for the 2024-2025 school year, and for the first time since Louisiana adopted the letter-grade accountability system, Quitman High School has earned an A School Performance Score, becoming the first school in Jackson Parish history to achieve such a milestone.
On Thursday, November 20th, Jackson Parish School District Superintendent William “Billy” Carter returned to his roots as a former QHS coach and principal to help celebrate the joyous occasion with Principal Chris Cavin, faculty, and student body.
JPSD Superintendent Billy Carter (l) and QHS Principal Chris Cavin (r) celebrate historic school performance score with the student body.
“Achieving an A is a tremendous honor,” Carter said. “Our students, teachers, support staff, and families have worked together to create a culture focused on learning, resilience, and high expectations. This grade belongs to all of us.”
While the recognition is worth celebrating, Principal Chris Cavin emphasized that Quitman’s work is far from finished.
“This is a major step forward, but it is not the finish line,” he said. “Our goal is to maintain this level of excellence year after year. That means continuing to push ourselves, support one another, and strive for improvement in every classroom.”
The school’s performance score is based on statewide assessments, student progress measures, graduation outcomes, and other indicators of academic success. The new rating places Quitman among the highest-performing schools in the region.
Cavin extended his gratitude to the Jackson Parish community for its support: “We are proud of this achievement and thankful for a community that believes in its school. With continued teamwork and dedication, Quitman can remain a place where students thrive.”
GRADE A! Aerial view of the QHS student body forming the letter A on the school track infield
Council members for the Village of Chatham held a Special Called Meeting on Wednesday, November 19th to discuss future policies and procedures regarding utilities as well as the conduct of an elected official.
Toni Malone, Sue Proffer, and Bernadean James called for the meeting after it was learned that a certain party had not paid the entire amount due on a water bill, which resulted in the water being cut off, only to later be cut back on when only a portion of the bill was paid.
Per the council, the water should not have been cut back on until the entire amount of the bill was paid, a position that Mayor Greg Harris opposed, citing that a good-faith monetary gesture had been made and that by cutting off the water, it put an undue burden on the resident.
The session ended after it was determined that, in the future, the policy regarding such situations would be that utilities not paid for by the date due would result in loss of those utilities until the amount was paid in full.
The Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office assisted the Winn Parish Sheriff’s Office in the arrest of Joshua Searcy of Jonesboro, following an extensive narcotics investigation conducted by Winn Parish. Their investigation led to an arrest warrant for Distribution of Schedule II Narcotics (Methamphetamine) for Mr. Searcy.
On November 17, 2025, Jackson Parish deputies located and arrested Mr. Searcy after receiving information regarding the warrant. He was later transferred to the Winn Parish Detention Center, where he remains in custody.
We appreciate the hard work of the Winn Parish Sheriff’s Office and the efforts of Sheriff Josh McAllister and his deputies. By working together, we can better serve and protect all of our communities and respond more effectively to drug activity in our area.
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.
Area schools played a heavy schedule, with some squads playing as much as four games in three days as they took part in area tournaments that were being hosted by Weston and Saline High Schools. Faring the best was the Quitman Lady Wolverines who won both of their games in the Saline Tournament to stretch their winning streak to four straight. Both Weston squads, the Quitman and Saline boys also won at least one game while the Jonesboro-Hodge girls lost to Saline and Quitman after opening the season with a victory over Lincoln-Prep.
Saturday, November 22:
QHS 61 JHHS 30 (girls): Anna Claire Leach recorded a rare “double-double” by scoring 18 points and making an area-best 11 steals to help lift QHS over Jonesboro-Hodge. A second quarter 14-3 advantage followed by a 24-9 third quarter advantage spelled the difference in the contest for Quitman. Allie Robertson chipped in with 13 points, and Taylor Borland added a season-best 10. Neesha Johnson Jr. led the Lady Tigers with 18 points.
Stanley 54 Weston 39 (girls): After the two teams battled to a 10-9 first quarter, Stanley opened up a 31-22 lead to beat the Lady Wolves in the girls’ last game of the Weston tournament. Kate Keiffer led WHS in scoring with 10 points, followed closely by Rachel Bandy and Gracie Gray, who made 8 points apiece.
QHS 50 Haughton 44 (boys): With the game tied at 30-30 early in the fourth quarter, Quitman went on a 20-14 run to take down the Class 5A Buccaneers in the Saline Tournament. Taden Thomas, Brayden Martin, and Brayden Smith all reached “double digits” in points with 14, 12, and 10 points, respectively. Larsen Thomas came close to joining the club, finishing with 8 points.
Pitkin 82 Weston 66 (boys): The Wolves fell in the tournament final, putting a damper on new season highs in scoring by Gunner Younse and Malachi Harris, who tallied 15 and 12 points each. Brody Tidwell led the Wolves with 16 points.
Stanley 65 Weston 35 (boys) The visitors from DeSoto Parish jumped out to an 18-7 first-quarter lead and never looked back in the first of two games Weston played in their own tournament. Brody Tidwell scored 11 to lead Weston.
Lakeview 36 Saline 33 (boys): After Saline limited Lakeview to just 16 points in the first half, the Gators scored 15 in the final quarter to take the victory over the Bobcats in the host’s tournament final. Eli Ferguson and Gavin Dailey scored 14 and 10 points, respectively, for Saline.
Friday, November 21:
Weston 55 Beekman Charter 38 (boys): The Wolves sent their fans home happy as Brody Tidwell posted 22 points in the nightcap of the WHS Tournament on Friday. Ty Henderson also came up big by scoring 9 points and grabbing a team high 8 rebounds.
Quitman 50 Salinie 34 (girls): Anna Claire Leach scored 16 and grabbed a season-best 12 rebounds to help lift Quitman over the tournament host. Allie Robertson added 8 for the Lady Wolverines, who were tied with Saline 12-12 at the half before taking a 23-10 advantage over the final two quarters.
Weston 54 Beekman Charter 28 (girls): The Lady Wolves jumped out to a 28-11 lead at the break and never looked back. Kate Keiffer scored 12, Rachel Bandy added 9, and both Teegan Hall and Ada Claire Tidwell scored 7 points each.
Haughton 82 Saline 55 (boys): In the battle of David vs Goliath it was the giant school that came away victorious in the Class 5A vs Class C battle. The loss offset a superb performance by Gavin Dailey who scored 25 points. Eli Ferguson and Elijah Calloway chipped in with 10 points each.
Thursday, November 20:
Weston 59 Dodson 17 (girls): A ferocious defensive effort limite Dodson to just two points in the first and third quarters as the Lady Wolves set a new season best for points allowed. Addison Faulkner scored a new career high 13 points to lead Weston in scoring as Teegan Hall and Ada Clair Tidwell chipped in with 9 points each.
Lakeview 60 Quitman 57 (boys): A three point attempt to tie rimmed out as a determined rally fell just short after Quitman trailed by ten at the half. Brayden Smith led the Wolverines with 17 points with Brayden Martin checking in with 16 and Taden Thomas making 12. Abel Leach added eight.
Weston 62 Dodson 25 (boys): The Wolves exploded for 22 points in both the first and second quarters to take a commanding 44-14 lead at the half as the Wolves set a new season best in points allowed. Brody Tidwell scored 20 points as Weston had 11 players score.
Saline 72 Ebarb 51 (boys): Gavin Dailey scored a new season high 28 points to lift the Bobcats over their fellow Class C opponent. Eli Ferguson added 16, Elijah Calloway scored 9, and Jackson Bougues made 8 points as the Bobcats had nine players score.
The Student/Athletes of the Week for November 9-15 from Jonesboro-Hodge, Quitman, and Weston High Schools have been selected. Sponsored by the Jackson Parish Hospital and chosen by members of the faculty and staff of each institution, the award recognizes an outstanding student/athlete for their academic achievements and athletic accomplishments.
Earning accolades this week are: Jaquan Qualls – Sophomore on the Jonesboro-Hodge High School football team Gage Horton – Senior on the Quitman High School cross country Team Brody Tidwell – Junior on the Weston High School boys basketball team
Join the Jackson Parish Hospital and the Jackson Parish Journal as we congratulate and applaud these athletes for their dedication and achievements in the classroom and through their outstanding athletic endeavors!
First Baptist Church of Chatham has been awarded a Pledge 10 Grant from Jonesboro State Bank in the amount of $10,000.00 to continue the development of its Community Basketball Court, a space that has become a weekly gathering place for youth and families throughout the area.
The Pledge 10 program invests 10% of Jonesboro State Bank’s profits back into the community through grants supporting education, youth development, financial literacy, and community enrichment. FBC Chatham’s project was selected for its focus on youth engagement, community health, and family connection.
The awarded funds will be used to install new lighting, shade canopies, benches, an outdoor sound system, and possibly other upgrades to make the court safer, more comfortable, and more inviting for community use. These upgrades will allow for extended evening play, shaded seating for parents and spectators, and music or announcements for events.
“This court has become more than just a place to play basketball — it’s where relationships are built, mentors connect with youth, and our community comes together,” said Pastor Tim Atkins of FBC Chatham. “The Pledge 10 grant allows us to make it even better — safer, brighter, and more welcoming for everyone in Chatham.”
The church maintains the court as a free, public space that welcomes all members of the community. Weekly games, youth nights, and local tournaments are already taking place, and the improvements will allow the space to be used year-round for both recreation and outreach events.
“We’re grateful to Jonesboro State Bank for believing in small-town projects like this that make a big difference in people’s everyday lives,” Atkins added. “Pledge 10 has helped us continue our mission of serving God by serving people.”
A Community Celebration and Dedication Event will be scheduled following the installation to thank Pledge 10 and recognize community volunteers and partners who made the project possible.
About First Baptist Church of Chatham FBC Chatham serves the people of Jackson Parish through worship, outreach, and community development. In addition to weekly services, the church hosts youth programs, Vacation Bible School, and community recreation activities designed to build faith, character, and connection among area residents.
