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

10/29/25
12/03/25

PUBLIC NOTICE

Jackson Parish School Board Meeting Minutes
November 3, 2025

The Jackson Parish School Board met in a regular scheduled meeting at 11:00 a.m. on November 3, 2025 at Jackson Parish School Board, 315 Pershing Highway, Jonesboro, Louisiana.
The following were present for roll call: Gerry Mims, Mary Saulters, Rick Barlow, Paulette Belton, Wade McBride, Dennis Clary and Calvin Waggoner
Absent: None
Rick Barlow gave the Invocation.
Wade McBride led in the Pledge of Allegiance.
The meeting was called to order by Gerry Mims.
A motion was made by Mary Saulters seconded by Wade McBride and carried to approve the minutes from the Regular Scheduled meetings held on October 6, 2025.
A motion was made by Dennis Clary, seconded by Paulette Belton and carried to approve the 2025 Jackson Parish Annual Safe Schools Report (Act 334).
A motion was made by Mary Saulters, seconded by Rick Barlow and carried to approve the 2025-2026 Pupil Progression Plan revision.
Mary Saulters reported to the Board on the meeting of the Executive Finance Committee held prior to the Board meeting.
A motion was made by Calvin Waggoner, seconded by Rick Barlow and carried to approve for payment the following bills: General Fund, Federal Program, School Food Service, Sales Tax, Special Education, District Maintenance bills.
A motion was made by Dennis Clary seconded by Paulette Belton and carried approving payment to RedBall Oxygen in the amount of $14, 484.00 for the purchase of four (4) new welding machines to be used at Jonesboro Hodge High School, to be paid from the Weyerhaeuser Giving Fund grant.
A motion was made by Rick Barlow, seconded by Wade McBride and carried approving to pay Employer’s Share of Office of Group Benefits insurance premiums from General Fund for the December 2025 sales tax distribution.
A motion was made by Rick Barlow, seconded by Calvin Waggoner and carried granting Superintendent Carter permission to sign the State of Louisiana Cooperative Endeavor Agreement for Act 461 in the amount of $50,000 for restroom facilities at Weston High School, for and on behalf of the Jackson Parish School Board.
A motion was made by Dennis Clary, seconded by Paulette Belton and carried granting Superintendent Carter permission to sign the State of Louisiana Cooperative Endeavor Agreement for Act 461 in the amount of $150,000.00 ($75,000.00 Jonesboro Hodge District funds and $75,000.00 Quitman District funds) for operations and enhancement of the facilities at Jonesboro Hodge High School, Jonesboro Hodge Middle School, Jonesboro Hodge Elementary School, and Quitman High School, for and on behalf of the Jackson Parish School Board.
A motion was made by Wade McBride, seconded by Dennis Clary and carried rescinding the motion made on September 15, 2025: A motion was made by Paulette Belton, seconded by Dennis Clary and carried approving the hiring of a contract Speech Therapist (not to exceed 20 hours per week) at a rate of $95.00 per hour and a Facilitator (Sub Pay), to be paid out of General Fund.
A motion was made by Paulette Belton, seconded by Rick Barlow and carried approving the hiring of Speech Therapists through a vendor agreement and/or individual staff contract at Jonesboro Hodge Elementary School, Jonesboro Hodge High School, Jonesboro Hodge Middle School (one therapist previously served all Jonesboro schools) and Weston High School at a cost of $90.00 per hour, to be paid from General Fund. The two (2) positions will not exceed a total of $143,000.00 annually.
A motion was made by Rick Barlow, seconded by Paulette Belton and carried approving two (2) Facilitators to assist with virtual Speech Therapy at Jonesboro Hodge High School, Jonesboro Hodge Middle School, Jonesboro Hodge Elementary School and Weston High School at sub rate, to be paid from General Fund.
Kristi Bass, Business Manager presented the Financial Report.
Wade McBride reported to the Board on the meeting of the Building and Grounds Committee held prior to the Board meeting.
A motion was made by Dennis Clary, seconded by Rick Barlow and carried accepting quote of $19,294.90 (State Contract) from ProVision Security to install cameras at Weston High School, to be paid from the 2025-2026 LCSS School Safety Grant.
A motion was made by Wade McBride, seconded by Calvin Waggoner and carried to accept low quote of $48,200.00 from Dodson Enterprises, Inc for material and labor for the Weston High School Baseball and Softball Fields restrooms, to be paid from Weston District funds.
Rick Barlow reported to the Board on the meeting of the Transportation Committee held prior to the Board meeting.
A motion was made by Mary Saulters, seconded by Paulette Belton and carried approving out of state travel for Jonesboro Hodge High School Band and Trey Porchay, to travel to the Kranksgiving Battle of the Bands in Little Rock, Ark. on November 22, 2025. Expenses to be paid by Jonesboro Hodge High School Band.
Paulette Belton reported to the Board on the meeting of the Policy Committee held prior to the Board meeting.
A motion was made by Mary Saulters, seconded by Dennis Clary and carried approving to revise the following policies:
• DJD – Travel Expense Reimbursement
• JD – Discipline
• JDA – Corporal Punishment
• GAAA – Equal Opportunity Employment
• JAA – Equal Education Opportunity
• IDDF – Education of Students with Exceptionalities
A motion was made by Dennis Clary, seconded by Rick Barlow and carried to adjourn at 11:15 a.m.

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. 

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.

Certified Speech-Language Pathologist
Substitutes – All Areas

Apply today through the Jackson Parish School District website at http://www.jpsb.us or contact the central office at (318) 259 – 4456 for more details.

CAREER OPPORTUNITY

Smurfit Westrock, located at 100 Mill Street in Hodge, LA is seeking Process Engineers. To apply contact Human Resources at (318) 259-4421. 

Phyllis Virginia Alexander
March 4, 1949 – November 2, 2025

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Phyllis Virginia Alexander, age 76 of Jonesboro, LA, was called to her Heavenly home on November 2, 2025. She was a loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She was a hair stylist who owned and operated Hair Crafters for almost 40 years. She loved her family, her church, her dogs, and her horses.

Those left to cherish her memory are, her mother, Bernice Alexander, her daughter Kelly Riser and husband Trey Riser, her son Mick O’ Brien, her daughter Kimberly McClary and husband Robert McClary, her grandson Trevor Riser and wife Gabriella Riser, her grandson Jacob McKaskle and wife Julia McKaskle, her grandson Jadon Hendrix, her grandaughter Emma Hendrix, her great-grandaughter Kaylee Riser, her great-grandson Ty Riser, her great-grandson Hal McKaskle, and her great-grandaughter Kara McKaskle.

She was preceded in death by her father Cleveland Alexander, her brother Mack Alexander, and her brother Gerald Alexander.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate her life at a service to be held from 1:00 – 3:00 pm on November 22, 2025, at McDonald Baptist Church in Jonesboro, La.

Rita Gail Hartsfield Robinson
July 28, 1935 – November 6, 2025

Rita Gail Hartsfield Robinson, 90 years of age, passed away early Thursday morning November 6, 2025 at The Carpenter House Hospice Hospital in Shreveport, Louisiana. She entered Heaven’s Gate to welcomed by Jesus surrounded by her loved ones who had gone on before her. What a glorious reunion it was.

She was born to parents Rev. L. K. Hartfield, Sr. and Claudia D. Crain Hartsfield on July 28, 1935, in Converse, LA. Her father was pastor of the First Baptist church of Converse. She was the adored baby girl, the oldest of four children in a Christian home full of love and laughter.

Rita lived most of her life at home with her parents. Being the daughter of a Baptist minister, she had the opportunity to live and make friends in various places in Louisiana, Texas and California. Rita worked as a beautician and later worked for Piccadilly Cafeteria at Mall St. Vincent in Shreveport, LA. Following the death of her mother, she retired and moved in with her father from Bossier City to Jonesboro to be nearer family and care for her aging father whom she did for many years. While there, she met and married Ross Robinson.

Rita was a Christian member of Southside Baptist Church in Jonesboro. At the of her death, she had been a longtime resident of Forest Haven Nursing Home and Rehabilitation Center, Jonesboro, LA.

She was preceded in death by her parents Rev. Lawrence Kendrick Hartfield, Sr., and Claudia D. Crain Hartsfield and her husband Ross Robinson, Jonesboro, LA.

She is survived by her brother Kendrick Hartsfield and wife Linda, Ruston, LA; sisters Sandra Hartsfield Gilliland, Birmingham, AL; and Peggy Hartsfield Makepeace and husband Mike, El Dorado, AR. Survivors also include a host of nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews.

The family would like to thank the nurses, aids, administration and all who cared for Rita during her years at Forest Haven Nursing Home in Jonesboro, LA.

Visitation is scheduled in the chapel of Southern-Edmonds Funeral Home in Jonesboro, LA on Monday, November 10, 2025 at 10:00 am until 11:00 am followed by a Celebration of Life at 11:00 am with Rev. Brian McAllister and Rev. Wesley Venable officiating. Burial will follow in Gayla Traina Cemetery, Jonesboro, LA under the direction of Southern-Edmonds Funeral Home.

Michael Eugene Crawford
September 30, 1955 – November 3, 2025

Mr. Michael Eugene Crawford, age 70, of Chatham, Louisiana, passed away on November 3, 2025. He was born on September 30, 1955, and lived a life filled with love, family, and a deep appreciation for the outdoors.

Michael was a man who found joy in simple pleasures—especially spending time outdoors and sharing his love of hunting with friends and family. His quiet strength, warm heart, and unwavering love for his family will be remembered always.
He was preceded in death by his brother, Julius Crawford and his grandmother who was like a mom to him Vanilla Smith.

He is survived by his daughters, Michael Cheatwood and husband Luke of Saline, LA, and Cindy Crawford of Quitman, LA; and his son, Larry Crawford and wife Valerie of Saline, LA., and a loyal nephew Sherman Smith and wife Cindy of Quitman, LA.

Michael was blessed with nine grandchildren who brought him great pride and happiness: Levi Cheatwood and wife Hannah, Zoey Cheatwood, Hanna Ashcraft, Emily Ashcraft, Landon Crawford, Sawyer Crawford, Cassidy Crawford, Zach Smith, and Jake Smith. He is also survived by a host of nieces, nephews, and extended family members who will cherish his memory.

Michael’s love for life, his family, and the outdoors will live on through all those who knew and loved him.

The Life Celebration service was held on Thursday, November 6th, 2025 in the Paradise Funeral Home Chapel in Jonesboro, La.

Per an announcement made by Town of Jonesboro Mayor James “Spike” Harris, Thrasher Road in Jonesboro will be closed to all traffic on Wednesday, November 6th, and Thursday, November 7th, to allow for necessary road and railroad crossing repairs.

This project is being conducted to correct the uneven dip between the roadway and railroad track, improving both safety and driving conditions in this area. During this time, detour routes will be clearly marked. All motorists are asked to plan accordingly and exercise caution when traveling near the construction zone. 

In the event of inclement weather, the repair schedule may be subject to delay. Any updates of changes will be promptly communicated through the Town of Jonesboro’s official channels. 

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(Baton Rouge, LA) – The Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) is announcing the distribution schedule for state-funded emergency assistance to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) households that include the elderly, disabled, or children. The Department is also announcing SNAP staff furloughs.

Households consisting only of able-bodied adults will not receive state-funded emergency assistance. Any unused SNAP benefits from previous months will remain on all recipients’ Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards and can be utilized as usual.

Every SNAP-eligible household has a set day of the month when benefits are issued. Starting November 1, 25% of the SNAP household benefit allotment will be provided as state-funded emergency assistance on the assigned date that SNAP benefits are normally issued.

An additional 25% of the benefit amount will be provided to each household every seven days for the month of November, as long as the federal government shutdown continues. Following is an example of the issuance schedule:

EXAMPLE: Household Benefit Amount = $200

Normal benefit issuance day: November 1 – 25% of benefit = $50
Seven days later: November 8 – 25% of benefit = $50
Seven days later: November 15 – 25% of benefit = $50
Seven days later: November 22 – 25% of benefit = $50

Eligible SNAP recipients do not need to take action to receive state-funded emergency assistance. However, SNAP recipients must continue to meet all program requirements on time to continue their federal SNAP eligibility.

Report household changes: Continue to report any changes to your household circumstances.
Complete paperwork: Ensure you complete simplified reporting or recertification paperwork, if applicable.
Submit verification: Submit any requested verification documents:
By mail to the LDH ES Document Processing Center, P.O. Box 260031, Baton Rouge, LA 70826; or
By fax to 225-663-3164.

Food banks

SNAP recipients who won’t receive state-funded emergency assistance should contact their local food bank for help. The Department also encourages Louisiana residents able to donate to support their local food banks and fellow Louisianans.

LDH employee furloughs

The Department has furloughed 786 SNAP employees due to the federal government shutdown, effective Monday, November 3. A total of 298 employees are essential staff and will not be furloughed. The furlough will continue until the federal government shutdown in Washington, D.C., ends.

The Louisiana Department of Health is closely monitoring the federal government shutdown and will provide updates to retailers and beneficiaries directly as they become available.

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The “Elite Eight” that represent the senior class of Jonesboro-Hodge High School football players, along with other support personnel, will be honored this Friday night at the JHHS vs Cedar Creek football game. The celebration will take place at 6:30 pm at Caldwell-Peacock Stadium on the campus of Jonesboro-Hodge High School prior to the District 1-1A contest that is slated to kick off at 7:00 pm

Senior football players being honored are:

Malik Nichols
Dakota Knox
Landon Boston
Marquis Baker
John LeBlance
Jwantavious Patterson
Sadaar Stevens

The contest is the final regular-season home game for JHHS, who will enter as the 9th-rated team in Division IV among “non-select” schools with a 6-3 overall record and a 4-1 mark in District 1-1A play. Cedar Creek, ranked #17 in the latest Division IV poll among “select” schools also has a 6-3 and 4-1 record, with the winner claiming sole possession of second place in district play. 

Can’t come? Here’s how to listen to the game!

For those not able to come to the game, you can still follow the Tigers by tuning to ROUX102, found at 102.3 FM on the radio dial, where Ben Ledbetter and Clay Williams will be bringing all the play-by-play, insights, and highlights.

The Tigers’ pre-game show will begin at 6:30 pm, which will include a segment of the JHHS coaches’ show where coach Terrance Blankenship will talk about the contest and season to date, followed by the kickoff slated for 7:00 pm.

For those who are outside the 102.3 listening area, you can also catch the contest by downloading the ROUX102 app or by going to the http://www.roux102.com website. As an added feature, you can also livestream the game by downloading the HudlFan App and following the prompts.

 

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The Jackson Parish School District (JPSD) is thrilled to celebrate the outstanding administrators, educators, and staff who have been selected as the very best of Jackson Parish Schools. Their dedication and commitment to excellence inspire students and colleagues across the district every single day.

2025 Jackson Parish School District Winners

Principal of the Year: David Huckaby
High School Teacher of the Year: Alberta Foster
Middle School Teacher of the Year: Shelby Chandler
Elementary Teacher of the Year: Holly Dodson
New Teacher of the Year: Brittany Goss
Support Staff of the Year: Craig McBride
Health Professional of the Year: Jessica Shultz

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The Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce held the 2025 Miss Christmas in the Pines Pageant on Saturday, November 1st, in the Jonesboro-Hodge High School Auditorium. Winners were announced in ten separate divisions, with Kiara McDaniel being featured as Miss Christmas in the Pines. 

2025 Miss Christmas in the Pines Pageant Winners 

Miss Infant Miss: Banks Elliot Weeks
Miss Baby Miss: Swayze Mae Lewis
Miss Toddler Miss: Aubrey Leanne Toney
Miss Tiny Miss: Saylor Graham
Miss Little Miss: Karleigh Jo Stassen
Miss Deb Miss: Maylee Brooks Gresham
Miss Petite Miss: Ella Faith Siddon
Miss Junior Miss: Robyn Maylyn Stamper
Miss Teen Miss: Jana Potts
Miss Christmas in the Pines: Kiara McDaniel

Peoples Choice Award Winners

In a separate competition, a People’s Choice Award was also given. The winner was determined by a contestant decorating a box/jar with their photo and division, and each dollar that was put in the box/jar was equal to a People’s Choice vote. The winner received a sash and a crown. 

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The Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce and pageant organizers would like to send a special thank you to the following financial institutions, businesses, organizations, and individuals who helped make this presentation possible. (shown below)

Jonesboro State Bank
Jackson Parish Bank
Sabine Bank
Barksdale Federal Credit Union
Hodge Bank
People’s Bank of Chatham
Shawn Murphy of State Farm
Ruffled Feather Photography
Jackson Parish Journal
92.1 /KVCL Radio Station
Anna Slaughter, LLC
Jonesboro-Hodge Elementary
Jonesboro-Hodge High School
Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce

Jackson Parish School District Superintendent William “Billy” Carter has issued his monthly “Mission Memo” for November. Featured areas of discussion are the Child Nutrition Program, Accountability / CTE, Academics, reports from all five JPSD schools, and the Superintendent’s Message.

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All the brave men and women who have served our country will be honored this Thursday, November 6th, and Saturday, November 8th, at special Veterans Programs. 

Young and old alike is invited to come to the Quitman High School Gymnasium, located at 181 Wolverine Drive in Quitman, on Thursday for a pair of programs, with the first beginning at 8:30 am followed by another at 10:00 am.

The final celebration will take place at the Charles H. Garrett Community Center, located at 182 Industrial Drive in Jonesboro, which is sponsored by the Jackson Parish Police Jury. The general public is invited to attend this as well.  

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Amber Spangler, Madison Taylor, Brody Cotten, and Emma Harper from Quitman High School won the Silver Award in the Nursery/Landscape Team Competition at the 98th Annual National Future Farmers of America (FFA) National Convention. 

The QHS contingent was part of over 70,000 students, teachers, school administrators, former FFA members, and guests from throughout the country and abroad, representing 9,163 FFA chapters that descended on Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana, from October 28th – November 1st. 

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Christian McGuire, who graduated from Jonesboro-Hodge High School in 2025, has been named as named Scholar Athlete of the Month for the Tulane University Track and Field program for the month of October. 

The son of Jonesboro residents Tyrhonda and Cortez McGuire, who is a Pre-Med major at Tulane University was selected on the basis of effort and excellence in the area of career development, grade point average and athletic contribution to the team. 

 

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Jackson Parish Hospital’s Saturday Clinic has updated its hours of service, now taking care of patients from 9:00 am – 12:00 pm. This is a walk-in clinic, so no appointment is necessary and patients of all ages are welcome. One of our many great healthcare providers who will be on duty looks forward to taking care of you and/or your family!

Jackson Parish Hospital Family Care Clinic
107 Watts Street
Jonesboro, LA 71251
318-395-2121

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Attention all artists! The last day to submit a design in the annual Christmas T-Shirt Contest is Friday, November 7th. Using the theme Miracle on Main Street, the selected design will be featured on the T-Shirt that will be the representative wear of the 2025 Chirstmas in the Pines Festival sponsored by the Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce (JPCC). 

To submit a design, drop the artwork off at the JPCC office, located at 601 South Cooper Avenue in Jonesboro or send an email to jacksonparishchamber@gmail.com. 

For questions or more information call (318) 259-4693.

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Giving Back! That is what the Jonesboro-Hodge High School graduating class of 1995 did this past week when they presented JHHS Band Director Trey Porchay and the members of the Tiger “Tropical Thunder’ Marching Band a tremendous financial gift in the amount of $1,800.00 that will go toward the purchase of new band uniforms. 

Currently, the Jonesboro-Hodge High School athletic department and band are in the process of attempting to buy new uniforms for the band (shown below) and are asking former alumni and graduating classes along with anyone who would like to particpate to provide assistance by making donations to the cause.

“Tropical Thunder” Receives Excellent Rating

On October 31, the Jonesboro-Hodge High School Marching Band received an “Excellent” rating at their very first Louisiana Music Educators Association (LMEA) District 1 Marching Assessment held at West Monroe High School. 

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The 10th Annual CASA Toy Run for God’s little children will take place on Saturday, November 8th. Participants are asked to bring an unwrapped toy that will be given to the local children who are currently in foster care due to abuse and/or neglect as part of the “CASA Christmas” campaign. 

The “Toy Run” will begin at 9:00 am in the Brookshire’s parking lot, located at 325 East Main Street in Jonesboro. Entry fee is $20.00 with a 50/50 draw being done along with gumbo being served and door prizes given away. 

For more info call: (318) 245-0958, (318) 259-2002, or (318) 259-8142. 

What is CASA?

CASA stands for Court Appointed Special Advocate volunteer, and is a unique and extremely important role that serves to help preserve the well-being of children in foster care. New CASA Volunteers are always needed  as children who have been removed from their homes, through no fault of their own, urgently need a voice – they need an advocate.

You can be that difference.

Many people may believe that a CASA volunteer must be someone with a degree in childcare or law or that they need to have a background in child welfare, but that isn’t the case. CASA volunteers come from all walks of life. A CASA volunteer advocates in the child’s best interest within the Court and out in the world where the child lives every day. They get to know the child and understand the circumstances that led to the child’s removal from their home.

The Court Appointed Special Advocate, or CASA, program was originally established in 1977 and since its inception, has grown to 49 states across the nation. As of 2021, there are over 96,000 volunteers serving over 276,000 children.

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A large contingent of local youth from Quitman and Weston Elementary and Junior High, along with runners from 31 other schools, competed in the Elementary / Junior High State Championships on Saturday, November 1st, with several coming home with top finishes.

Highlighting the event held at the Gospel Cross Country Course in Choudrant was the Quitman Elementary 2nd-3rd Grade boys team of Kreed Delaughter, Matthew Buchan, Axle Mullins, Cole Burton, Emmett Thomas, Kolton Laffitte, and Jake Patton, and Audrina Martin of Quitman Junior High in the 6th-8th grade girls division, earning state runner-up finishes.

Additional top ten individual finishers were:
4th Place – Clay Burton, Quitman (4th-5th Grade Boys Division)
6th Place – Josiah Ramsey, Quitman (6th-8th Grade Boys Division)
6th Place – Brax Netherland, Quitman (K-1st Grade Boys Division)
8th Place – Kreed Delaughter, Quitman (2nd-3rd Grade Boys Division)
8th Place – Mason Caldwell, Quitman (4th-5th Grade Boys Division
9th Place – Matthew Buchan, Quitman (2nd-3rd Grade Boys Division)

 

 

 

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Ronald’s job required him to travel all over the world. His career was hectic, sometime chaotic, and he was constantly on the go. He was always surrounded by people. When Ronald got a much-needed break from work, he wanted to spend his time somewhere peaceful and quiet. His favorite hobby, fishing, provided him the perfect escape.

And so it was early one evening in the 1980s. Ronald and his dog, a toy fox terrier named Tuffy, boarded Ronald’s bass boat and headed out onto Lake Shasta in northern California. Ronald was sure to find solitude in the 30,000-acre lake whose shoreline spans some 365 miles. Ronald motored his boat into a cove on the lake near a grove of tall pine trees which jutted out from the depths. Some of the pine trees, the Sugar Pine, grow to a height of up to 200 feet, but about half of the height of the trees Ronald anchored his boat near that day were underwater. There was hardly a ripple on the water. He could hear a slight breeze blowing through the trees and the calls of a few birds. A dog barked in the distance. Ronald cast his bait into the water. As he slowly reeled it back in, he glanced at the beautiful snow-capped Mount Shasta, the second highest peak in the Cascade mountain range. He scanned the shoreline and took a deep breath. When he exhaled, it was as if months of pressure was released from his body and mind. With each cast, he became more relaxed. The catching of a fish was beside the point. There were no other boats in sight. Nothing, he thought, could interrupt the tranquility that he was experiencing.

Suddenly, without any buildup or warning, the silence was broken by a sound he described as being “as loud as a hundred freight trains.” Ronald was born and raised in a refrigerated boxcar that his father had converted into a home just about a rock’s throw from the main line of the Santa Fe railroad. The noise was instantaneous and deafening. Ronald thought someone had thrown a case of dynamite into the lake. He was sure it was the end for himself and Tuffy. One of the tall pine trees near his fishing spot, a tree he estimated to have been about 110 feet tall, “was released by mother nature from the bottom of the lake.” With so much of the tree underwater, when its deep roots let go it shot up into the air like a rocket to a height of about 300 feet then broke into three pieces. Ronald said, “millions of gallons of water flew from its branches.” The tree shattered when it crashed back down onto the lake’s surface near his boat. Then, there was a deafening silence. The sounds of the birds singing, the distant dog’s barking, even the sound of the breeze rustling the leaves in the trees had stopped.

As Ronald looked around in stunned silence, he realized that he had survived. Tuffy was also visibly shaken but uninjured. He thought about what he had just witnessed and understood how lucky he was once again. He had spent much of his youth in juvenile detention centers, and as a young adult, he had survived a stint in the notorious San Quentin prison. Ronald concluded that if the trajectory of that hurtling waterlogged tree had been slightly different, he would have been killed, and the cause would have remained a mystery. After his shocking fishing trip, Ronald returned to work performing his hit songs including “Mama Tried,” “Workin’ Man Blues,” and “Okie From Muskogee.” You see, Ronald was the middle name of Merle Haggard.

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The Louisiana Educational Assessment Program (LEAP) test is a statewide standardized test given to students in grades 3–8 and high school to measure their achievement in subjects like English Language Arts, mathematics, science, and social studies.

The test is computer-based, and results are used to evaluate student progress, identify areas where they may need extra support, and meet graduation requirements.

While it is a tedious time for the students, especially the young ones, there were many at Weston High School who had smiles on their faces when it was all over. That was because the members of the school’s Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) showed their support of the hardworking students by giving away a number of prizes such as bicycles, Playstations, Gift Cards, and Earbuds. 

PTO LEAP Test Prize Winners

Elementary Boy’s Bike: Lucas Perritt
Elementary Girl’s Bike: Kiley Horton
Amazon Gift Card $25: Hawk Snuggs
Walmart Gift Card $25: Darrell Guinn
Amazon Gift Card $50: Ashlyn Choate
Walmart Gift Card $50: Kari Beth Gates
Beats Studio Ear Buds: Katherine Ramirez
Pink iPad: Jaylin Williams
Beats Solo 4 Headphones (Black): Leyton Younse
Beats Solo 4 Headphones (Pink): Allie Middleton
PlayStation 5: Harmony Davis

👏 Congratulations to all the winners — and thank you again to our PTO for supporting Weston students in such a fun way! 💫

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During October, Benoit Ford of Jonesboro participated in the nationwide “Fill a Ford” food drive charity campaign, where members of the community were invited to come to the local dealership and bring canned goods and non-perishable items that would be delivered to a charity organization. 

On Tuesday, November 4th, the Benoit Ford team showed their commitment to the local community by delivering all the items collected to Helping Hands Ministry in Jonesboro.

Thank you to Benoit Ford and all the people who participated in helping support local families in need. 

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Scouts love fall, and with all of the exciting activities, there’s a good reason! Along with cooler temperatures come new rank requirements, exciting camping opportunities, and a fresh season of fun pack meetings.

The first big event for the Louisiana Purchase Council was Bobcat Day at the Monroe Zoo. Scouts and families attended a series of short classes where they learned about and were given the components to build the “essential six” supply kit, which is required for outdoor scouting activities. After completing the lessons, a sea of scout uniforms flooded the Louisiana Purchase Gardens and Zoo to enjoy the animals and playground.

In October, Jonesboro Pack 523 kicked off the fall camping season with two big events – Fall Adventures at Camp TL James and a special 100th Anniversary Celebration of Camp Kiroli. Kiroli was our area’s official scout campsite until 1979, and it was a sentimental experience to fill the site with a new generation of scouts.

At both campouts, scouts were given opportunities to cook over a fire, practice archery, and fish, in addition to many other outdoor activities. Local scouts, Hudson Hurt, Mayson Terral, and Gavin Lawson brought home the 2nd place award in the Dutch Oven Cookoff at Fall Adventures.

Back at home, the pack hosted a friendly competition between the cub ranks, where each group was challenged to complete essential camping tasks with the guidance of older scouts. Events included constructing a tent, tying a scout knot, building a fire large enough to burn a string, and finally, safely extinguishing the fire. Tensions were high, teamwork was strong, and the scouts’ abilities were impressive.

The beauty of Cub Scouts is that the participants feel like it’s all fun and games, but at the end of the day, it’s valuable knowledge and experience that can only be gained by practice. Our local scouts are always learning, always pushing their limits, and always growing. Our leaders are always driving excellence, always leading by example, and always investing in youth. What more could we ask for?

If you have a child who would be interested in joining the Scouting America family, contact Cubmaster Brian Hurt by phone at (318)734-5371 or by email at bhurt.pack523@gmail.com

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Twiddling Your Thumbs?

Twiddling your thumbs? Imagine the dilemma of a giant; the man may have had had 4 thumbs to twiddle.

“Now it came about after this that there was war again with the Philistines at Gob; then Sibbecai the Hushathite struck and killed Saph, who was among the descendants of the giant. And there was war with the Philistines again at Gob, and Elhanan the son of Jaare-oregim the Bethlehemite killed Goliath the Gittite, the shaft of whose spear was like a weaver’s beam. And there was war at Gath again, where there was a man of great stature who had six fingers on each hand and six toes on each foot, twenty-four in number; and he also had been born to the giant. When he defied Israel, Jonathan the son of Shimei, David’s brother, struck and killed him (2 Samuel 21:18-21 NASB).”

Jonathan didn’t twiddle his thumbs; he carried on the work of defeating the enemy. We should stay busy and follow the Master’s example.

Will we do the Father’s work?

“As Jesus passed by, He saw a man who had been blind from birth. And His disciples asked Him, ‘Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he would be born blind?’ Jesus answered, ‘It was neither that this man sinned, nor his parents; but it was so that the works of God might be displayed in him. We must carry out the works of Him who sent Me as long as it is day; night is coming, when no one can work (John 9:1-4 NASB).”

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

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

10/29/25
12/03/25

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. 

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.

Certified Speech-Language Pathologist
Substitutes – All Areas

Apply today through the Jackson Parish School District website at http://www.jpsb.us or contact the central office at (318) 259 – 4456 for more details.

CAREER OPPORTUNITY

Smurfit Westrock, located at 100 Mill Street in Hodge, LA is seeking Process Engineers. To apply contact Human Resources at (318) 259-4421. 

Charles Wayne Pixley
August 17, 1939 – October 31, 2025

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Charles Wayne Pixley was born on August 17, 1939, the only child of Vivian Wherland Pixley (June 11, 1919 – July 24, 1963) and J.C. “Jake” Pixley (June 15, 1919 – May 3, 1968). His parents were married on June 11, 1938, in Jackson Parish, Louisiana.

He was raised by his mother, Vivian, an inspector at the Hodge Paper Mill, and by his grandmother, Margaret “Willie” Jones Wherland. Charles attended Jonesboro-Hodge High School, where he excelled in basketball. He achieved all-state and all-American in 1957, the same year in which he graduated with the Class of 1957.

On August 6, 1957, he married Millie Jo Chapman (July 4, 1939 – April 16, 2018) in Lake Charles, Calcasieu Parish. Together they shared more than sixty years of marriage and raised five children.

Charles passed away peacefully on October 31, 2025 surrounded by family.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Millie Jo Chapman Pixley; his parents, Vivian and Jake Pixley; and his grandson, Jackson Wayne Pixley (June 8, 2006 – August 5, 2025).

He is survived by his five children: Callie Elisabeth Michael, Robyn Davidson Thomas, Melinda Claire Bruscato, Jonathan Charles Pixley, and Christopher Wayne Pixley; ten grandchildren: Ashley Claire Rovira, Brian Davidson, Ben Thomas, Lindsay Bruscato Logan, Lauren Bruscato McMurray, John Paul Bruscato, Hannah Pixley Saizan, Caylin Pixley, Dylan Christopher Pixley, and Faith Renee Pixley; and six great-grandchildren: Cooper Logan, Collins Logan, Hendrix McMurray, Forrest McMurray, Lennon Bruscato, and Gray Bruscato.

His family will honor his life privately.