After 40 years of service to Jackson Parish as Clerk of Court, Laura (Humble) Culpepper has announced her retirement. Leaving a lasting legacy, Culpepper was honored by members of the Clerk’s Office, Jackson Parish officials, business leaders, friends and family with a retirement party on Friday, December 19th.
Per a request by the Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services that was approved by the Food and Nutrition Service (FNS), soft drinks, energy drinks, and candy will no longer be able to be purchased through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program SNAP in Louisiana.
The Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) has announced that the SNAP Restriction Food Waiver, prohibiting specific sugar-laden items from being purchased with SNAP benefits, will go into effect on February 18, 2026.
SNAP provides food benefits to low-income families to supplement their grocery budget so they can afford the nutritious food essential to health and well-being. These changes prioritize food within the SNAP program in order to help Louisiana families live healthier lifestyles.
Food items still able to be purchased include:
Fruits and vegetables
Meats, poultry, and fish
Dairy products like milk and cheese
Breads, cereals, and grains
Seeds and plants for growing food at home
According to the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH), benefit levels or household eligibility will not be affected by these changes that are designed to help families build healthier shopping habits.
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.
(Submitted by Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office on December 19)
On December 10, 2025, the West Monroe Police Department responded to a complaint involving online communication between a subject and an undercover individual posing as an underage girl. Officers identified the suspect as Humphrey Harris and obtained copies of the communications as part of their initial investigation. (see below)
During the investigation, information was developed indicating the involvement of an actual underage victim. It was further determined that the alleged sexual acts occurred in Jackson Parish. The investigation was then transferred to the Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office, which continued the investigation.
Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office investigators were able to establish probable cause that Harris engaged in sexual acts involving an underage victim in Jackson Parish. As a result, arrest warrants have been obtained for Harris for the following offenses:
• Louisiana R.S. 14:42 – First Degree Rape (3 counts)
Harris is currently being held at the Ouachita Correctional Center (OCC) on charges from another jurisdiction. The Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office has placed detainers on Harris, and he will be transferred into JPSO custody upon disposition of those charges.
Harris is charged with three (3) counts of First-Degree Rape in violation of Louisiana R.S. 14:42. Under Louisiana law, First Degree Rape carries a mandatory sentence of life imprisonment at hard labor without the benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence for each count.
The Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the West Monroe Police Department for their professionalism and cooperation throughout this investigation. As neighboring agencies, continued collaboration is essential, particularly in cases involving victims whose needs may extend beyond jurisdictional boundaries. Through strong interagency coordination, law enforcement is better positioned to protect victims, ensure their voices are heard, and work toward justice by holding offenders accountable, while serving the public with care and professionalism.
This investigation remains ongoing. No further details will be released at this time to protect the identity of the victim. All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
On December 10, 2025, the West Monroe Police Department arrested 36-year-old Humphrey Harris on seven counts of Indecent Behavior with a Juvenile and one count of Computer Aided Solicitation of a Minor.
The arrest was made after Harris was caught chatting online with who he thought was a 12-year-old girl. During the online communication, Harris also sent indecent pictures of himself and two sexually explicit videos and made plans to meet the 12-year-old, whom he admitted he had molested while living in Chatham, LA, and her 9 year old sister. He also admitted in an interview with EDP Watch to molesting another girl who was known to him on multiple occasions.
Law enforcement officials in Jackson Parish have conducted a forensic interview with the child and are continuing their investigation. Additional charges are anticipated.
Harris was booked and is currently incarcerated in the Ouachita Parish Correctional Center. He has an $800,000.00 bond.
Some coaches and players are happy that the Christmas holidays mean a break from playing games. Don’t count Weston High School head boys basketball coach or any of the Wolves players in that category. After winning a season-best three straight from December 15-18, including the 55-46 victory over Calvin on Friday, the Wolves would just as well prefer to keep playing. With the victory, Weston climbs to 7-10 on the year, while Calvin lost their fifth in a row to fall to 6-10 on the year.
It was a career-best scoring night by Abram Toms, who hit 9 of 11 shots for 19 points that paced the Wolves’ offensive attack. Brody Tidwell played a big role as well, scoring 14 points, dishing out 4 assists, and making 4 steals. Ty Henderson also had 4 assists and 4 steals while scoring 8 points, while Colton Otwell and Malachi Harris had 5 and 4 points respectively. Gunner Younse hit a three-pointer, and Eli Henderson made a pair of free throws to round out the Wolves’ scoring.
The longest road trips of the year proved fruitful for Jonesboro-Hodge, who broke into the winning column for the first time all season on Thursday and then followed it up with a second straight victory the next night before falling in their final game on Saturday. The Tigers, now 2-9 on the year, broke the season-opening 8-game losing streak by beating winless Plain Dealing 62-31 and then came back to post a season best in points in the 78-52 victory over Magnolia School of Excellence, which fell to 3-11 on the year. The contest against Class 5A Benton proved to be too much of a hill to climb, though, as JHHS fell 58-22. No individual statistics were reported.
The Bobcats spotted homestanding Providence Classical Academy a 31-21 halftime lead but came storming back in the second half to take a 55-50 win, which is their second in a row. With the victory, Saline climbs above the .500 mark with a 9-8 record. while PCA, out of Bossier City, falls to 4-11 on the year. Gavin Dailey scored 8 of his 15 points in the decisive third quarter that saw Saline rally from 10 down to take a 36-35 lead heading into the final frame that saw the Bobcats post a quarter-best 19 points to seal the victory. Eli Ferguson led Saline in scoring with 20 points, while Elijah Calloway chipped in with 11. Conner Roberts finished with four, and Jackson Bougues sank a pair of free throws to round out the scoring for Saline.
The Lady Wolves had trouble finding the range on offense, especially from “downtown”, as they made only 15 of 63 shots (24%) from the field and were 1 of 18 (6%) from the three-point line to fall 60-45 to Calvin, which broke their season-tying best four-game winning streak. With the loss, Weston closes out the 2025 portion of the schedule with an 11-5 record in coach Matt Herring’s first year at the helm, while Calvin, ranked #2 in Class C, ups its record to 15-2 on the year. The loss put a damper on the best scoring night of Kate Keiffer’s burgeoning career as the 7th grader led Weston with 13 points and a team-tying best 6 rebounds. Carlynn Waters also reached double digits in points scored with 10, and Teegan Hall scored six and had six boards. Ada Claire Tidwell finished with five points, Gracie Gray scored four, and Mallory Malone tallied three points. Addison Faulkner and Carly Jo Griffin both finished with two points each.
Next Up! Jonesboro-Hodge is the only Jackson Parish school still playing this week, as Quitman and Weston are done for the 2025 portion of the schedule. The Tigers will host Homer on Tuesday, December 23rd, for a girls and boys game, depending on whether the Lady Tigers will be able to overcome the illness that struck the team and caused them to miss the Airline Tournament. Saline High School will also be in action on Monday, December 22nd, when they travel to Ebard for girls and boys action.
In an effort to honor the outstanding educators who toil tirelessly to give the students enrolled in the Jackson Parish school system the best education possible, the JPSD is pleased to introduce “Who We Are Wednesday.”
Each Wednesday, one of the faculty members of the JPSD will be recognized for their tremendous commitment, dedication, and excellence in the classroom that helps our local youth prepare for their future endeavors. This week, the JPSD recognizes Josie Greer, fourth-grade teacher at Quitman High School as “Staff Standout.”
Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill and members of the Louisiana Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force are pleased to announce the results of a massive enforcement operation targeting registered sex offenders in violation of Louisiana law, called ‘Operation Access Denied.’
This was a coordinated effort between General Murrill’s Louisiana Bureau of Investigation and over 30 law enforcement agencies stretching across North Louisiana, including the Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office.
From November 1 to December 1 of this year, utilizing databases and resources available to law enforcement and the state sex offender registry, Louisiana Bureau of Investigation agents, in collaboration with partner agencies, identified and arrested 67 previously convicted sex offenders for additional crimes against children.
These registered offenders were engaging in unlawful online activity, and through coordinated efforts, arrest warrants were obtained for the individuals, which eventually led to the discovery of additional crimes.
Some of the offenders were re-arrested for crimes like first-degree rape, computer-aided solicitation of a juvenile, indecent behavior with a juvenile, possession of child sexual abuse material, sexual abuse of an animal, and other similar disturbing charges.
“This is one of the largest operations conducted in the State of Louisiana targeting registered sex offenders in violation of Louisiana law. This just goes to show that with our current partnerships in the Louisiana Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, there won’t be one place to hide across the State if you’re looking to harm our children. We will leave no stone unturned in doing everything we possibly can to protect the children of Louisiana. Thank you to our Louisiana Bureau of Investigation agents and all our partner agencies for a spectacular job well done. Because of the tremendous success in this operation, we are now looking to bring similar operations to other parts of the State soon,” said Attorney General Liz Murrill.
Arrested by the Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office was Jimmy Wayne Bailey, who was charged with LA R.S. 14:91.5 Unlawful Use of a Social Networking Website (3 Counts)
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.
There are certain days when something special happens that you will always remember. Jackson Parish resident, Michael Linton, will never forget the period of December 12-17, 2025.
That is because, other than the day the 1994 Jonesboro-Hodge High School graduate married his wife, Amanda (Shively), and when his children were born, that five-day period will always rank as one of the best periods of his life.
Why, you ask?
On Friday, December 12th, Linton was acknowledged by the Louisiana State Police Department, where he has been employed since 1997, as Supervisor of the Year. This was followed up by his being promoted to Lieutenant on Wednesday, December 17th.
Adding to the enjoyment of the week, in between the days of his professional acknowledgements, Linton downed his first deer of the season, a nice 8-point buck, putting some meat in the freezer.
Congratulations, Michael, on your great week!
Christmas came early for over 100 children of Jackson Parish thanks to the annual “Shop with a Cop” initiative that was sponsored by the Jonesboro Police Department, which brought much joy and unforgettable memories.
The event began with children and families gathering at the Town of Jonesboro Public Works building, where they were fed pizza and received $100.00 per child before getting to ride in a Police Unit to Walmart to do their shopping.
“We are overwhelmed with gratitude and excitement as we reflect on what has been accomplished through our Shop with a Cop initiative this year. Because of the incredible generosity and unity of our community, this has been by far the most successful year we have ever had,” said Jonesboro Assistant Police Chief Warren Johnson. “Thanks to the support of local businesses, churches, and individuals who faithfully sowed into this ministry, we are able to serve over 100 children, each receiving $100 to spend at our local Walmart. That means more than gifts, it means smiles, confidence, and memories that these children will carry with them.”
This initiative is a true testament to what happens when a community comes together with a shared heart to serve. Every donation, every prayer, and every act of kindness played a part in making this possible, and we do not take that lightly,” continued Johnson. “From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for believing in our kids, supporting our shop, and investing in the future of Jonesboro–Hodge. We are deeply grateful and incredibly excited for what we’ve been able to accomplish together. With sincere appreciation, thank you for making a difference.”
Through the support of many local businesses, organizations, schools, and community groups, a special day was provided by the administration and staff of Forest Haven Nursing Home on Friday, December 19th, to the residents who enjoyed “Holiday Hoopla.”
With a plethora of booths and decorated vehicles lined up in the parking lot, residents passed through, receiving all sorts of gifts and goodies, as well as enjoying live music, to bring in the Christmas season.
The Forst Haven administration would like to give thanks to all who helped make this event merry and bright for everyone.
NOTE: more images can be found on the Forest Haven Facebook page
The Jackson Parish Hospital (JPH) held its annual Service Award Ceremony on Wednesday, December 17th, honoring the stafff members whose incredible dedication, unwavering loyalty and commitment help make the JPH mission possible.
Those reaching milestones of 5, 10, 15, 20, and 25 years of service were recognized, as well as the selections for the Employee Choice Award, Employee of the Year, and the Leadership Excellence Award – each representing the heart and spirit of JPH.
“Thank you for your inspiring dedication and commitment. Because of you, we continue to advance our mission of delivering exceptional care and making a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve.” – Jackson Parish Hospital Administration
Leadership Excellence – Bill Stansbury
Employee of the Year – Evan Springfield
Employee Choice Award – Allegra Gray
25 Years – Donna Bangana, Edwina Diffey
20 Years – Denise Baum, Courtnay Chatman
15 Years – Jenny Edu
10 Years – Matthew Bond, Glenda Caldwell, Alash Paggett, Vicki Pyles,Dr. William Slusher, Carla Smart, Jason Spangler, William Wheelis, Willie Wilson, Pamela Wise
5 Years – Jerry Allen, Kelsey Arnold, David Bays, Garica Boston, Ashley Burns, Shenedra Jones, Meagan Lemken, David Rasberry, Martha Rhone, Samantha Shuff, Lindsay Stutzman, Janet Price, Brooke Taylor, Laura Winkler
Yet another example of Jackson Parish schools stepping up to help meet the needs of local citizens took place on Friday, December 19th when the Beta club of Jonesboro-Hodge Elementary School donated over 500 canned goods to His Hands Ministries in Jonesboro.
“This is the season to not only receive, but give. We know that food pantries and charitable organizations often run short on food. I am very proud of the families of J-HES, as they did not hesitate to donate this Holiday season. We thank Mr. Randy Layfield for this opportunity and look forward to partnering with His Hands Ministries in the future.”
Ms.Copeland, JHES Principal
The Student/Athletes of the Week for December 14-20 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:
Jaquan Qualls – Sophomore on the JHHS boys basketball team
Brayden Martin – Junior on the QHS boys basketball team
Kate Keiffer – 7th Grader on the WHS girls’ 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 their outstanding athletic endeavors!
If you want to experience a rich, full life—forget fairness. Life is not fair. Jesus was not fair. He said, “The last will be first and the first will be last.” That’s wonderful if you’re at the end of the line, but if you’re at the front? Well, suddenly you’re wishing you’d grabbed a cup of cocoa and stalled a bit before lining up.
Jesus told stories about workers in the field. The early morning crew had a contract. The mid-day hires had a handshake deal. By the time the late afternoon folks showed up, they had nothing but a promise. And when payday came, everyone got the same wage. That’s not fair! Imagine the early risers muttering, “We skipped breakfast for this?” Meanwhile, the latecomers are whistling “Joy to the World” all the way to the bank.
And then there’s the older brother in the prodigal story. He’s out in the field, sweaty and tired, hearing music and laughter from the house. He’s thinking, “Great. My brother gets a party, and I get blisters.” If it had been Christmas, the father would’ve handed the younger son a stocking stuffed with candy canes and the older brother a fruitcake. Not fair—but oh so right.
Think about the thief on the cross. He never joined the church, never got baptized, never served on the finance committee (lucky him). He didn’t even have time to learn the words to “Silent Night.” All he said was, “Lord, remember me.” And Jesus replied, “This day you will be with me in paradise.” That thief is now strolling the streets of gold, probably humming “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” off-key. Not fair—but grace never is.
And the first Christmas? Talk about unfair. Mary and Joseph weren’t traveling to Grandma’s house for figgy pudding—they were trudging to Bethlehem for a Roman tax enrollment. No hotel, no Airbnb, just a barn with a cow mooing the bass line. Then Herod’s rage brought tragedy to Bethlehem. It was not fair. But it was right.
Because justice is not about fairness—it’s about God’s power to set things right. Justice rolls down like waters, righteousness like an ever-flowing stream. And out of that stream grows grace—lavish, undeserved, overflowing grace.
So this Christmas, when someone says, “It’s not fair!”—smile and say, “Exactly. That’s the point.” Fairness gives us what we deserve. Grace gives us what we could never earn. And that’s the best Christmas gift of all.
Justice is tough. Grace is extravagant. Jesus is merciful. And thank God—He is not fair!
Thirty (30) student-athletes from Weston High School were awarded letter jackets on December 17th, in between the girls’ and boys’ WHS vs Downsville Charter basketball games. A breakdown per class shows that letter jackets were awarded to 2 freshmen, 5 sophomores, 21 juniors, and 2 seniors.
Freshman, Addison Faulkner
Freshman, Gracie Gray
Sophomore, Marcella Gonzales
Sophomore, Remy Kennard
Sophomore, Anna Shows
Sophomore, Brylee Cuthrell
Sophomore, Davynee Bearden
Junior, Abram Toms
Junior, Aiden Dowd
Junior, Aiden Faulkner
Junior, Ashad Harris
Junior, Braden Turner
Junior, Brody Tidwell
Junior, Hunter Donaldson
Junior, Avery Dark
Junior, Jaylan Graves
Junior, Makayla Johns
Junior, Slade Kyle
Junior, Allison Morgan
Junior, Bailey Brown
Junior, Megan Walker
Junior, Jake North
Junior, Kari Gates
Junior, David Gandy
Junior, Jase Borders
Junior, Katy Choate
Junior, Addison Johns
Junior, Brooklyn Slaughter
Senior, Cole Otwell
Senior, Piper Bailey
Jonesboro-Hodge Elementary School is proud to have partnered with LaSalle Corrections for the adoption of 15 families, Jonesboro’s Police Department’s “Shop w/ A Cop” Program for the adoption of 15 families, Jackson Parish’s NAACP Branch #6309, and Enhanced Skin & Beauty of Ruston for the adoption of 1 family each.
“I’m overwhelmed with the amount of community support we received this holiday season. I thank you all for making Christmas a little more memorable for my students. Thank you for your service to our community, and may God continue to bless your programs.”
Ms. Copeland, Principal
(We dug into the archives to find a column we wrote several years ago to commemorate this special time of year.)
Christmas is almost here but it is sometimes difficult to get a clear vision of what it’s really all about when filtered through clouds of war, political upheaval, famine and disease in every corner of the world.
Yet, the time for celebrating the birth of Christ is upon us and we’re often faced with how to best honor Him in the midst of all that is going on around us.
Our church has an annual food drive where bags of groceries are accumulated from donations and distributed to needy families in the community. A few years ago, Kay and I helped bring a bit of joy to some families in our community. Seeing the faces of children and grateful parents and being able to take a bit of edge off what pain and anxiety they may be facing was worth giving up the few hours we spent.
As we handed out bags of groceries and received heartfelt thanks, my thoughts turned to memories of the season when I was growing up in the country.
Our Christmases were relatively simple, but that didn’t make them any less special. When it came time to put up the tree, we didn’t go to the shopping center and select an artificial one. We didn’t go to a Christmas tree farm and cut our own from a neat row of cloned trees.
We walked out to the woods to find a cedar growing away from other trees. This didn’t happen often; you’d find a tree that looked just right, until you checked the back side and saw that the oak next to it had robbed it of sunlight, leaving it shapely on one side and skimpy on the other. Mama’s solution was to put skimpy side next to the wall with shapely side to the front.
For decoration, there was red roping, icicles and colored balls. We didn’t have strings of lights those early Christmases because there was nothing to plug them into. Electricity hadn’t found its way to Goldonna yet.
My mama’s kitchen was a mixture of sights, sounds and aromas as the special day neared. Dad, my brother and I made sure we saved a couple of wood ducks shot down at the Sand Flats for mama’s special recipe. I recall seeing those ducks, roasted almost black in a Dutch oven, swimming in a dark sea of the richest gravy you can imagine. There was a pan of dressing mama made from cornbread she’d cooked the day before and set aside. A fat hen provided the broth and zest to the dressing.
On the side, there was a bowl of ambrosia, pecan pies, chocolate pies, divinity, fudge and the traditional applesauce cake that mama made from homemade fig preserves, raisins and pecans from our tree in the yard.
As we handed out bags of groceries that day, I recalled a parallel event from childhood that made me want to have a part in sharing with other folks this time of year. Before we sat down to our Christmas dinner, mama would always prepare a big tray from the bounty of our table and our whole family would walk through the pine thicket to the home of an old couple, our neighbors, whose Christmas dinner would have been meager had it not been for mama’s generosity.
Times change, and they do it in the blink of an eye. All the older participants in those early Christmases are gone; Mom and Dad, the old couple down the road. The memories of those events came into focus though, in the eyes of appreciative folks whose Christmas may have been bleak without the provisions we brought them.
If you run into me during the next few days, don’t expect me to greet you with Happy Holidays, Merry X-mas or Season’s Greetings. You’ll hear “Merry Christmas” in honor of the One this day is all about.
CANEY LAKE – Bass are in the deeper holes with soft plastics and crank baits picking up some nice fish. Crappie are in the deeper holes with just out from the spillway. They are best on shiners and jigs. For information contact Caney Lake Landing at 259-6649, Hooks Marina at 249-2347, Terzia Tackle at 278-4498 or the Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707.
BUSSEY BRAKE –Crappie fishing has fair to good fishing jigs or shiners near the bottom. Bass fishing has been best flipping jigs and soft plastics around brush.
OUACHITA RIVER – The water is still quite low because of lock and dam problems down stream. Bass are best fishing shad imitation in the run-outs; crappie are around the tops in the river in 12-14 foot water using shiners and jigs. For latest information, contact the Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707.
LAKE D’ARBONNE – Bass are best over deeper water in the channels. Jigs and crank baits are picking up some. Crappie are near the bottom in 20 foot water on jigs and shiners. For latest information, call Anderson Sport Center at 368-9669 or Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707.
LAKE CLAIBORNE – Crappie are best just out from the spillway in deep water on jigs and shiners. Bass are hitting crank baits and soft plastics in deeper water. For latest information, call Kel’s Cove at 927-2264 or Terzia Tackle at 278-4498.
LAKE POVERTY POINT – Catfish are good while crappie have improved fishing around the with jigs and shiners on the south end. Bass are slow. For information, contact the marina at 318/878-0101.
LAKE YUCATAN – The lake level is on a slight fall. Catfishing is good, buffalo are being caught in nets while bass and crappie are slow. For info call Surplus City Landing at 318/467-2259.
The Jackson Council on Aging (JCA)enjoyed its annual Christmas Party at the Robert Riddle Senior Center, located at 120 Polk Avenue in Jonesboro, with Christmas caroling, door prizes, and a fantastic meal.
The Jackson Council on the Aging improves the quality of life for elderly citizens in Jackson Parish by coordinating and monitoring local agency services and providing in-home services to frail elderly citizens. They also offer social services and congregate meals, as well as home-delivered meals.
The JCA, under the guidance of Executive Director Linda Wyatt, would like to thank Angie Cakes and More for catering the meal, as well as Glen Kirkland, Fyzical Therapy and Balance, Joyce Lewis, and Sandra Nesbit for donating door prizes to make this a lot of fun.
I snuggled under my electric blanket and got comfortable before viewing a Christmas classic. Bing Crosby’s ‘White Christmas’ was the perfect choice; familiar sights and sounds of Christmas were fresh as a new fallen snow.
Memories of past Christmases quickly came to mind. I had celebrated so many as a young girl and teenager in my family home in Central New York State. I was raised outside of Syracuse in the rural neighborhood of Mycenae.
Living there, I had taken for granted the regular occurrence of the sight of several inches of snow on Christmas Eves and Christmas mornings. I’ll be quick to add that snow accumulations are not always welcome sites to New Yorkers.
Early morning risers must shovel or use snow blowers on covered driveways and sidewalks. Highways and Interstates become danger zones when travelers are involved in vehicle accidents. It’s easy to become stranded in sub-zero temperatures in the midst of towering snowdrifts.
The reality… A White Christmas soon becomes a brown slush.
Multitudes of yesterday’s New Yorkers are today’s Florida residents.
Make this your White Christmas. You can be whiter than snow!
“Behold, thou desirest truth in the inward parts: and in the hidden part thou shalt make me to know wisdom. Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean: wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow (Psalm 51:6-7 KJV).”
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.
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.
BRENT BARNETT, SHERIFF
EX-OFFICIO AUCTIONEER
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.
BRENT BARNETT, SHERIFF
EX-OFFICIO, AUCTIONEER
GUARANTY BANK AND TRUST COMPANY OF DELHI
vs 37958
ADMC PROPERTIES, LLC
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’s Office, Jonesboro, Louisiana, on Wednesday, the 21st day of JANUARY 2026. Between the hours governing judicial sales, the following property, to wit:
LOT ONE (1) OF BLOCK “B” OF THE J.D. JEFFRESS ADDITION NO. TWO (2) TO THE TOWN OF JONESBORO AS PER PLAT OF RECORD IN THE RECORDER’S OFFICE OF JACKSON PARISH, LOUISIANA, TOGETHER WITH ALL IMPROVEMENTS AND APPURTENANCES THEREUNTO BELONGING.
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.
BRENT BARNETT, SHERIFF
EX-OFFICIO, AUCTIONEER
GUARANTY BANK & TRUST COMPANY OF DELHI
vs 37878
AM PROPERTIES & INVESTMENTS, LLC
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’s Office, Jonesboro, Louisiana, on Wednesday, the 21ST day of JANUARY, 2026. Between the hours governing judicial sales, the following property to wit:
THOSE CERTAIN PIECES, PARCELS OF TRACTS OF LAND, TOGETHER WITH ALL OF THE IMPROVEMENTS SITUATED THEREUPON, ALL APPURTENANCES THEREUNTO BELONGING AND COMPONENT PARTS SITUATED AND LOCATED IN THE NE 1/4 OF THE SW 1/4 OF SECTION 1, TOWNSHIP 14 NORTH, RANGE 4 WEST, JACKSON PARISH, LOUISIANA, BEARING THE MUNICIPAL ADDRESS OF: 869 FIREWOOD ROAD, JONESBORO, LOUISIANA 71251, AND BEING MORE
PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS:
LOT 22 OF THE SOUTH HIGHLAND SUBDIVISION TO THE TOWN OF JONESBORO, AS MORE FULLY SHOWN ON THAT SURVEY SHOWING SOUTH HIGHLAND SUBDIVISION, PREPARED BY U.S. ROANE, C.E., DATED OCTOBER 26, 1956, RECORDED AT CONVEYANCE BOOK 90, PAGE 428, ACQUIRED AND FILED ON JULY 29, 1970, IN COB 136, PAGE 202, RECORDS OF JACKSON PARISH, LOUISIANA.
ALSO:
BEGINNING AT THE SW CORNER OF THE NE 1/4 OF THE SW 1/4, SECTION 1, TOWNSHIP 14 NORTH, RANGE 4 WEST, AND RUNNING DUE EAST 243 FEET TO THE EAST SIDE OF THE ROAD RUNNING NORTHEAST AND SOUTHWEST THROUGH SAID FORTY, THENCE RUN N13 DEGREES 45' EA DISTANCE OF 350 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING; FROM SAID POINT OF BEGINNING THENCE RUN DUE EAST 150 FEET; THENCE RUN IN A NORTHEASTERLY DIRECTION PARALLEL WITH THE ABOVE ROAD 100 FEET; THENCE RUN DUE WEST 150 FEET OR A DISTANCE SUFFICIENT TO INTERSECT THE RIGHT OF WAY OF THE ABOVE ROAD; THENCE RUN IN A SOUTHWESTERLY DIRECTION ALONG AND WITH THE RIGHT OF WAY OF SAID ROAD A DISTANCE SUFFICIENT TO
INTERSECT THE POINT OF BEGINNING.
ALSO:
LOT NUMBER SIX (6) OF BLOCK ONE (1) OF THE J.D. JEFFRESS ADDITION TO THE TOWN OF JONESBORO, LOUISIANA.
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.
BRENT BARNETT, SHERIFF
EX-OFFICIO, AUCTIONEER
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.
History of JHHS Football – Looking for that special Christmas gift to give a former Jonesboro-Hodge High School football player? Present him with a copy of the “History of JHHS Football”. This comprehensive review of the first 100 years of Tiger football (1919-2019) features a separate chapter for each year that includes a season summary, game recaps, names of players, and highlights of that year. Included are JHHS team and individual records, a coach’s summary, and a large number of historical pictures. The cost of a book is $25.00, which includes shipping and handling. To place an order, send a text to (318) 480-1206 or email the Jackson Parish Journal at jpjjacksonla@gmail.com
Ben Edward Williams, age 85, of Saline, passed away peacefully on Thursday, December 18, 2025, in Jonesboro. A lifelong outdoorsman, Ben found his greatest contentment in the simple, honest joys of nature and community. He was an avid gardener whose tomato patch became legendary throughout the Carolina community near Saline, earning him the affectionate nickname “the Mater Master.” Ben took pride in sharing the fruits of his labor, generously keeping friends, neighbors, and passersby supplied with free, vine-ripened tomatoes each season.
When he was not tending his garden, he could often be found fishing or duck hunting, pursuits that reflected his deep appreciation for the outdoors. A devoted dog lover, Ben had a special fondness for Labrador Retrievers, whose loyal companionship brought him great joy throughout his life.
Ben is survived by his wife of 63 years, Glenda Thomas Williams; daughter, Jere Rushing and husband Randall; son, Terry Williams; grandchildren, Lecie Rushing, Jacob Williams, Justin Williams; great-grandchildren, Saylor Havard, Ryder Havard, Scarlett Shell, Ada Ruth Williams; and other relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by his father, Bennie Williams; mother, Mae Arbil (Calhoun) Williams; grandson, Seth Rushing; and an infant sister.
A graveside service was held at Carolina Baptist Church Cemetery near Saline on Saturday, December 20, 2025, under the direction of Southern-Edmonds Funeral Home of Jonesboro with Bro. David Leggett and Barry Thomas officiating.
Serving as pallbearers was Terry Williams, Jacob Williams, Justin Williams, Randall Rushing, Paul Thomas and Ronnie Mathews.
Robert “Bobby” Vail, age 87, of Quitman, Louisiana, went to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on December 18, 2025. A man of deep faith and generous spirit, Bobby found joy in both the simple pleasures of life and in serving others. He loved fishing and could often be found tending his garden, on his lawnmower or working with his hands as an avid handyman and woodworker. Bobby’s greatest passion, however, was his love for the Lord. He served, when he was able, as a deacon and Sunday school teacher, and he never missed an opportunity to share his testimony, which he fondly called “His Story,” with anyone willing to listen. Bobby loved fellowshipping with friends and family and he loved watching his grandkids and great-grandkids grow up.
Bobby is survived by his wife of 64 years, Barbara (Grissom) Vail; daughters, Cindy Hammons and Angie Horn (Greg); grandchildren, Ashley Hines (Jeff), Daniel Hammons (Mollye), Samantha Taylor (Josh), and Mallory Willis (Caleb); great-grandchildren, Alley Hines, Evelyn Hammons, Jacob Hammons, Logan Hammons, Colby Taylor, Mason Taylor, Liam Willis and Gideon Willis; brother, Kenneth Vail.
He was preceded in death by his father, Robert Grady Vail; mother, Mary Lois (Kelley) Vail; sister, Lurline Whitten; brothers, Donald Ray Vail, James “Cotton” Vail and Richard “Dickie” Vail; and son-in-law, Jeff Hammons.
Friends may visit with the family at Fellowship Baptist Church near Quitman on Sunday, December 21, 2025, from 12:30 PM until 2:00 PM. The funeral service will begin at 2:00 PM with Bro. Craig Stephens officiating. Burial will follow in the Antioch Cumberland Cemetery under the direction of Southern-Edmonds Funeral Home.
Serving as pallbearers will be Paul Maxwell, Red Burris, Johnny Toms, Jason Womack, Jeff Hines, and Josh Taylor.
In continuation of the Miracle on Main Street Christmas Festivities in Jonesboro, the Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce is pleased to invite you to the “Cookie Crawl,” which will take place from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm in Jonesboro on Saturday, December 20th.
All participants of the event are instructed to be at Tony Rome Park, located at the corner of Polk Avenue and 4th Street in Jonesboro, where you will pick up your bag to place your cookies and get your tickets with the participating business’s name.
While at the park, visit the concession stand for hot chocolate and popcorn before going shopping at the participating businesses. When you make at least a $10.00 purchase, the business owner/representative will initial your ticket and give you a cookie.
Get an initial from three (3) stores, and bring your shopping list by 11:45 am to Benoit Ford in Jonesboro, and you will have a chance to win one of five prizes in the amount of $100.00.
Added to the enjoyable day will be Mrs. Claus at Salty Brahma in Jonesboro and Santa Claus at Benoit Ford, where you can have pictures made by Ruffled Feathers in Jonesboro.
The Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce (JPCC) would like to thank Jonesboro State Bank for the donation made to help with this event.
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.
On December 10, 2025, the West Monroe Police Department arrested 36-year-old Humphrey Harris on seven counts of Indecent Behavior with a Juvenile and one count of Computer Aided Solicitation of a Minor.
The arrest was made after Harris was caught chatting online with who he thought was a 12-year-old girl. During the online communication, Harris also sent indecent pictures of himself and two sexually explicit videos and made plans to meet the 12-year-old, whom he admitted he had molested while living in Chatham, LA, and her 9 year old sister. He also admitted in an interview with EDP Watch to molesting another girl who was known to him on multiple occasions.
Law enforcement officials in Jackson Parish have conducted a forensic interview with the child and are continuing their investigation. Additional charges are anticipated.
Harris was booked and is currently incarcerated in the Ouachita Parish Correctional Center. He has an $800,000.00 bond.
With family, friends, and representatives of the Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce on hand, Michael and Teresa Connor, owners of the newest member of the downtown Jonesboro business community, NaNa’s Craft Barn, celebrated their grand opening on Tuesday with a traditional ribbon-cutting ceremony.
Located at 108 Jimmie Davis Blvd., aka Main Street in Jonesboro, NaNa’s Craft Barn offers handmade crafts, wood items, paintings, gifts, clothing and shoes, jewelry, and more, just in time for the Christmas holidays.