The Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce that the date, time, and location for the 2026 edition of the annual Miss Sunshine Festival Pageant have been chosen.

The 2026 pageant will be held in the Jonesboro-Hodge High School Auditorium at 2:00 pm on Saturday, April 11th. Entry forms and payment are due by Thursday, April 2nd, with a mandatory practice scheduled for 5:00 pm on Friday, April 10th.

Not only will winners be crowned in 10 separate age divisions, but also a People’s Choice Award and Most Photogenic Award will be presented. 

For more information, see the flyer below. 

JPCC makes “Call for Designers” to enter Sunshine Festival T-Shirt Contest

The Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce (JPCC) is making a “Call for Designers” to enter the 2026 Sunshine Festival T-Shirt Contest. The deadline to make a submission is March 23rd. 

Show your creativity by emailing a design to  jacksonparishchamber@gmail.com

Or by sending to the following address:
Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce
601 South Cooper Street
Jonesboro, LA 71251

The winning design will be featured on the annual Sunshine Festival T-Shirt and available for purchase through the Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce.

Donations Sought for Downtown Hanging Basket Project

In the past, the Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce has gratefully received donations for downtown hanging baskets, many of which have been given in memory or in honor of someone special. Once again, we are reaching out to ask for your support in helping us beautify Downtown Jonesboro.

Our goal is to have the baskets ready before the Sunshine Festival in April. This year, we are doing something a little different. Instead of live flowers, we will be purchasing beautiful artificial arrangements. With the intense heat we experience, it has become increasingly difficult to keep the live baskets watered and looking fresh. We are hopeful that artificial flowers will remain vibrant and attractive throughout the season.

The JPCC kindly asks you to consider making a donation of $25.00. After the baskets have been hung, there will be a listing on Facebook thanking those who have donated, and if they were in honor of or in memory of someone.

Please mail your check/money order to:
Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce
601 South Cooper Avenue
Jonesboro, LA 71251

Be sure to write on your check/money order if it’s in memory or in honor of someone.

Your support helps keep the Jonesboro downtown area welcoming and beautiful for everyone to enjoy. Thank you for considering this request and for your continued support of our community.

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The 2026 LHSAA boys basketball playoff brackets have been released. In contention to take part in “Marsh Madness,” which is what the annual state tournament is called, are Quitman and Weston High Schools from Jackson Parish and neighboring Saline High. 

District 1B champion Quitman and District 1C runner-up Saline have the best road for an opportunity to play in Burton Coliseum in  Lake Charles, LA, for the week-long affair in Lake Charles, LA as both have received first-round byes.

Perhaps even more important is that Quitman (24-5) is seeded #3 in Class B and Saline (21-13) is at #4 in the Class C bracket, meaning both schools will play every postseason contest on their home floor up to the state tournament, where the semi-finals and finals of each division and class are played. 

Quitman High, which under the guidance of Michael Black, went undefeated during the months of December and January while reeling off 20 wins in a row to climb to their highest ranking since 2007, the last year the Wolverines made the state tournament. Bolstered by a deep roster that includes a pair of 1000 career point scorers, QHS will host the winner of #14 Glenmora (14-18) and #19 Episcopal of Acadiana 13-17) in the Regional Round.

Saline High awaits the winner of #13 St. Joseph – Plaucheville (13-20) and #20 Jehovah Jireh, which has a (10-16) record. The Bobcats, who finished 2nd in District 1C climbed from #5 to #4 on the final day of the season after head coach Klint Robinson shrewdly and strategically scheduled Division 1 #3 seed, Natchitoches-Central, and the #6 and #9 seeds in Class B, Stanley and Castor, to improve the Bobcats power points. 

Weston High (11-20) has a much tougher road to take. After receiving the final position in the Class B bracket, the #20-seeded Wolves must play every game on the road. The good news is that head coach Jacob Otwell’s squads first-round opponent is a team they know well in District 1B foe Simsboro, who, at 12-14 on the year, was granted the #14 seed. Weston lost to Simsboro 64-50 at home on February 9th in a contest that was rescheduled due to the Winter Storm Fern event. The winner of that contest earns the right to travel to #4 seed Lacassine. Game time is set for 6:00 pm on Thursday, February 26th, with the doors to the Simsboro gymnasium opening at 5:00 pm. The cost of admission is $10.00 per person. 

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After receiving first-round byes and dispatching of second round opponents, Quitman High and Saline High are still alive and now preparing to play highly ranked opponents in the Quarterfinals of the LHSAA Class B and C playoffs. Meanwhile, the season is over for both Jonesboro-Hodge High and Weston High as both young squads lost their second-round games.

#6 Quitman (22-7) at #3 Fairview (26-9)

Thursday, February 26th
Tip Off: 6:00 pm
$10.00 Admission

For only the second time in school history, matching the 2000-21 seasons, Quitman High School has advanced to the LHSAA Quarterfinals in back-to-back seasons. 

As the 2001 Lady Wolverine team did, the 2026 version is looking to part in “Marsh Madness” and earn a trip to the LHSAA state tournament that will be played in University Center in Hammond, LA, on March 2-7.

To do so, QHS will have to do something that no team has been able to do but twice in the last 23 years and that is beat Fairview High School in the quarterfinal round. 

Over the last two decades, nothing in LHSAA girls basketball competition presents as much of a challenge as attempting to beat Fairview in the playoffs, which has won a state-best 16 state championships overall, including 13 since 2003, while finishing as runner-up four times and reaching the semi-finals four more.

The win-loss record compiled by Fairview head coach Kyle Jenks is mindboggling. In his 28 years at the small school located deep in the woods of Grant Parish, Jenks has 1046 wins and 160 losses. That equates to an incredible average of 37 wins each season for nearly three straight decades. 

Twice in the last three years, including this one, Quitman has taken a shot at the legendary dynasty. Twice, the Lady Wolverines have come up short. The first by a score of 81-40 in 2023-24 and 65-24 on this past October. 

Still, Quitman head coach Kyle Leach is optimistic about his team’s chances, offering the hope that, despite losing the first time around, already playing the #3-seeded opponent on their home floor earlier in the year and having almost 30 games under their belt is a big benefit for his girls. 

“Their gym is an intimidating place to play if you aren’t used to it, as it is dark and old, and you see all those state championship trophies when you first walk in,” said Leach. “Also, when we went down there earlier in the year, we were still trying to find a good rotation and learn to play with each other. We are a much better team than the one they saw before, and I feel confident that if we play like we are capable, we can come away with a win.” 

#7 Saline (19-13) at #2 Calvin (26-2)

Thursday, February 26th
Tip Off: 6:00 pm
$10.00 Admission

There will be nothing the two teams don’t know about each other when Saline makes the short trip to Calvin for the LHSAA Class C quarterfinal matchup. After all, the Lady Bobcats and Lady Cougars have already played three times this season, having squared off in the season opener for both teams, again on November 15th, and for a third time on January 19th.

All three times Calvin won, but all three times Saline played close, losing 44-41 to open the year, 48-42 mid-season and 37-35 toward the end in a contest that looked like Saline was going to win. Will the fourth time be the charm for the Lady Bobcats?

Head coach Chris Toms believes so. 

“We came up short all three times we played them this year, but we were in every game to the end,” reflected Toms, who led the Lady Bobcats to a district title for the second time during his tenure. “We have gotten better as the season has gone on, and right now we are playing our best defense of the year. I continue to be impressed with the effort and commitment to staying disciplined on that end of the court.”

#7 Saline 27 #10 Singer 11 (Regional Round): The Lady Bobcats only allowed four made baskets all game, including only a three-pointer in the third quarter to register the fewest points allowed all season. At the half, though, the outcome was still in doubt as Singer held an 8-6 lead on the strength of two 3-pointers, and Saline was able to make only two baskets and two free throws. The second half was a different story. Morgan Cheatwood got hot for 9 of her game-high 11 points, and Kasidy Sims scored 6 of the 8 points she registered on the night as Saline won the second half by a commanding 21-3 margin. Lanee Cheatwood finished with four points, and both Jalynn Jiles and Rayaunnah Pearson tallied 2 points each. 

#1 Midland 68 #17 JHHS 29 (Regional Round): The top-ranked team in Division IV among “non-select” schools proved worthy of their lofty status right from the start as the Lady Tigers fell behind by an insurmountable 30-6 deficit. Freshman Samone Mallard scored 11 points to lead JHHS in scoring, with Sanaa Tatum posting nine. Nesha Johnson scored 5, and both Jaylenya Jackson and Knori Lard made a basket to round out the scoring for the Lady Tigers.

Despite the one-sided defeat that ended J-H’s season with a 14-18 record, it takes nothing away from the tremendous job third-year coach Shan Jackson did with her youthful squad. After starting the season with a 1-7 record, the young team started coming together to win 7 of 8 in one stretch and finish with a winning record (4-3) in the ultra-tough District 1-1A, which still has two teams alive in the quarterfinal round (#3 Arcadia, #4 Cedar Creek) with both expected to reach the state tournament.

“I am extremely proud of these young ladies. They got better everyday and that’s what we were looking for, and they gave us that,” said Jackson. “We have a young team, so with what is coming from the junior high, I am excited for the future of the Lady Tigers.”

The third-year mentor was also very appreciative of the support the team received from not only the students and school faculty but also the parents of the players and fans as well. 

“I want to thank everyone for the unwavering support of these young ladies, and especially the parents and family of the girls who traveled everywhere with them. My coaching staff and I really appreciate them for being there.”

#3 Fairview 65 #14 Weston 21 (Regional Round): Falling behind 36-1 to start the game and trailing 40-7 was too much of a hill to climb for the youthful Lady Wolves, who were forced to play at one of the most intimidating venues in the state against a modern-day dynasty. Rachel Bandy led Weston in scoring with 5 points, while Teegan Hall made 4 and grabbed a team-leading 7 rebounds. Carlynn Waters and Carly Jo Griffin totalled 3 points apiece, and Savannah Saulsberry and Gracie Gray tallied two each. Ada Claire Tidwell and Kate Keiffer also added a free throw as first-year coach Matthew Herring looked to the future after his team got hopelessly behind and allowed many of his young players the needed playoff experience.

Weston sees their 2025-26 campaign come to a close with a respectable 20-12 record after starting the season with a 7-1 mark and winning a first-round playoff game for the first time in 9 years. Despite losing by a one-sided score to end the season, coach Herring was extremely pleased with his girls in his inaugural season as the Lady Wolves coach.

“I told the team after the game that one game doesn’t define a season,” said Herring. “They have remarkably come a long way in one season, and I am proud to be their coach.”

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The Jackson Parish Special Education Advisory Council (SEAC) will meet on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at Jonesboro Hodge Middle School in Room 50. The meeting is open to the public. The agenda is posted at www.jpsb.us

A Special Education Advisory Council (SEAC) is a group of parents, teachers, and other community stakeholders that provides advice and feedback on special education policies, procedures, and resources to help improve services for students with disabilities.

These councils are often mandated by state or federal law, such as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). They are meant to foster collaboration between families, schools, and the community.

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All three Jackson Parish baseball teams won big on Tuesday, but the day will be remembered by something that took place that is bigger than sports. As a whole, the three schools won by a combined margin, with Jonesboro-Hodge romping past Rayville 19-2, Quitman besting Beekman-Charter 11-1, and Weston whipping Choudrant 8-1. The Wolves opened the week by outlasting Northwood-Shreveport in a wild 17-16 slugfest. 

Quitman 11 Beekman-Charter 1: In what turned out to be a game that will forever be etched in the memory of Quitman players, coaches, and fans, the fired-up Wolverines erupted for multiple runs in each of their four at-bats and witnessed Kace West turn in one of the most awe-inspiring efforts on the mound you would ever want to see.

Led by Quitman alum Todd Ford, Division II Beekman Charter (1-6) was no match for the Wolverines, who evened their season record at 5-5 with the victory. Quitman scored 2,2,3 and 4 runs in consecutive at-bats as Maddox Duck, Hudson Pullig, Tucker Newton all got two hits, and Zach Smudrick, Asher Rhodes, Tucker Barnett, and West all got a hit each. 

What made the contest special was the performance of West, who was grieving over the death of his grandfather, Donnie Miller, who had passed away earlier in the day. 

“I didn’t know if he would play or not,” said QHS head coach Chris Womack, who continued by explaining that when he saw West arrive before the game, their conversation went like this. 

Womack: You feel like playing?
West: Yes! I want to because Papaw would want me to.
Womack: What do you think about starting on the mound?
West: “GIVE ME THE BALL!!”

In his five innings, West allowed only one hit and one unearned run while striking out 6, including the last three batters he faced in the top of the fifth to secure the “run rule” victory. 

“After striking out the final 3 batters, all the tears and emotions he had been holding in finally poured out,” emotionally recalled Womack. “There wasn’t a dry eye around him. It was one of those moments where sports mean much more than wins or losses, and you play for something bigger than yourself.”

Weston 8 Choudrant 1: Five runs in the top of the sixth inning broke open a close game as Colton Blundell, who had 3 RBI in the game, hit a double and Liam Weaver stroked a triple to drive in two runs each.  By virtue of a third straight victory and second in two days, the Wolves improved to 7-2 on the year and climbed to #2 in the Class B power ratings. Drew Browning and Dawson Griffin, who added a double, scored twice and Browning and Ty Henderson scattered five hits over 7 innings while striking out six. 

Weston 17 Northwood-Shreve 16 (Monday): The Wolves built a seven-run lead and then hung on to squelch a late Northwood rally in the slugfest that saw the two teams combine for 33 runs, 28 walks, and 23 hits. Kolt Keiffer (2B, 4 RBI, 2 RS), Jase Borders (RBI, RS), Colton Blundell (2 RBI, 2 RS), and Liam Weaver (2 RBI, RS) all had two hits. Drew Browning (2B, 3 RS, RBI), Ty Henderson (3 RBI, 3 BB, 2 RS), and Beaux Oliver (RS) also had a hit each, while Kypton Caskey (3 RS) and Dawson Griffin  (RS) both had an RBi and walked twice. Carter Powell also scored a run. 

JHHS 19 Rayville 2: The Tigers continued to score at will to run their record to a sparkling 4-1 mark with all victories over teams from a higher classification, which has vaulted J-H to a #3 ranking in the early Division IV power ratings. The Tigers have now scored 64 runs in five games for nearly a 13 per game average. No individual stats were available. 

UP NEXT: (Baseball)

Thursday, February 26
Weston vs Prairieville (East Ascension Tourney) 5:00 pm

Friday, February 27
JHHS vs Rayville 5:00 pm
Weston vs East Ascension (East Ascension Tourney) 6:30 pm

Saturday, February 28
Weston vs St. Amant (East Ascension Tourney) 12:00 pm
Quitman vs Evangel (Red River Tourney) 2:00 pm
Quitman vs North Caddo (Red River Tourney) 4:00 pm

UP NEXT: (Softball)

Wednesday, February 25
JHHS at Bastrop 5:00 pm

Thursday, February 26
JHHS vs Lakeview 5:00 pm
Quitman at Ruston 5:30 pm
Weston vs Dodson 4:00 pm

Friday, February 27
Quitman vs TBA (Polar Bear Classic at ULM)
Weston vs PCA 4:00 pm

Saturday, February 28
Quitman vs TBA (Polar Bear Classic at ULM)
Weston vs TBA (Polar Bear Classic at ULM)

 

 

 

 

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Jonesboro-Hodge Middle School, located at 440 Old Winnfield Road in Jonesboro, LA, proudly invites you to its 2026 Black History Program that will be held in the gymnasium at 1:30 pm on Wednesday, February 25th.

Special guest Harvetta “Thais” Barnes Reddix — a proud native of Jonesboro, Louisiana, and a 1979 graduate of JHHS — will present “The Negro Mother” Enactment by Langston Hughes.

Also appearing will be performances by JHMS students and the  JHMS & JHHS school band “Tropical Thunder.”

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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 Jackson Parish School District (JPSD) is pleased to continue the weekly educator recognition program entitled “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 Brooke Odenbaugh, a joyful and energetic 1st Grade Teacher at Jonesboro-Hodge Elementary School, as “Staff Standout.”

With 5 years in education, all proudly spent at JHES, Brooke brings enthusiasm into her classroom each day. Brooke says she has so much fun teaching because she still feels like a big kid herself. Her classroom is filled with laughter, learning, and moments that keep life interesting. Inspired by her Nana, who was also a teacher, Brooke even keeps a journal of the funny and sweet stories her students create each year. While she may be the teacher, she says her students have taught her just as much over the years.

When asked about memorable accomplishments, Brooke says it’s not just one big moment—it’s the daily victories. Watching a student write their first sentence, read a book independently, or experience that magical “A-ha!” moment when something finally clicks—those are the achievements that mean the most to her.

Brooke credits her high school music teacher, Mrs. Decou, as someone who left a lasting mark on her life. She often finds herself thinking about her while teaching and carrying those lessons forward.
If she weren’t in education, Brooke would be a librarian or a stay-at-home mom—but she knows that God’s plan for her was always to work with children.

Outside of school, you’ll find her spending time with family, listening to music, or reading a good book—she could talk for hours about her favorite albums, artists, and stories!

Join us in celebrating Brooke Odenbaugh, whose joy and love for learning shine brightly at Jackson Parish Schools!

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Maddox Duck has made a name for himself over the past couple of years as a top high school angler on the Northeast Louisiana High School Angler fishing tour. 

Now it is a sport the whole family plays.

And judging by the results of the LHSAA regional tournament held on Lake D’Arbonne this past Saturday, it is something they do very well. 

Lily and Maddox Duck tied for first place with a nice five-bass stringer that weighed 19.2 pounds and included a 4.4-pound big bass. 

As a result of their top finish, the pair from Quitman High School is now qualified for the LHSAA State Championship tournament that will be held March 13 & 14 on Toledo Bend in Zwolle, LA.  

 

 

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The administration and staff of the Jackson Parish Library are pleased to present Steve Bateman in a FREE concert at 2:00 pm this  Thursday at the Main Branch, located at 614 South Polk Avenue in Jonesboro. 

Get ready to do some major “toe-tapping” when the veteran musician, vocalist, songwriter, and recording artist performs a variety of classic “oldies” and vintage country music. 

Blood Drive Slated for February 26th

Blood drive appointments can be scheduled ahead of time by using this link:
https://donor.lifeshare.org/…/sch…/drive_schedule/298045

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(Paid Content)

Dear Fellow Residents of Jackson Parish,

Jackson Parish has been more than a career for me. It has been a lifelong commitment. For more than four decades, this parish has trusted me in roles that demanded responsibility, fairness, and steady leadership. That trust is not something I take lightly, and it is why I am seeking the office of Sheriff.

My family has deep roots here. My children were raised in Jackson Parish, and today I am the proud grandfather of seven grandchildren. I want them, and every child growing up here, to have a safe community where they can learn, work, and build a future without fear. That desire is personal, and it is one of the strongest reasons I am running.

As Sheriff, I intend to lead from the front. I will be visible, accessible, and fully involved in the day-to-day operations of the Sheriff’s Office. I believe leadership requires presence, not distance, and I expect to know what is happening in every part of the parish. The Sheriff’s Office should never feel unreachable to the people it serves.

One of the most pressing challenges we face, here and across the country, is the illegal drug trade. Drugs destroy families, create crime, and endanger our communities. Addressing this problem requires focus and consistency, which is why I will assign deputies on a full-time basis to narcotics enforcement. This will not be a secondary responsibility. It will be a priority.

Looking ahead, I also believe we must protect and manage the resources that make this parish strong. Caney Creek Reservoir has become a major asset for Jackson Parish. It deserves a dedicated, full-time patrol to ensure safety on the water and surrounding properties. At the same time, I am committed to improving training and continuing education for deputies.

A well-trained agency is safer, more effective, and more accountable to the public. Law enforcement alone cannot solve every problem. I believe in working closely with schools, courts, and other community partners to support mentorship and after-school programs for at-risk youth. Giving young people guidance and opportunity early can prevent crime long before handcuffs ever become involved. Prevention matters, and so does coordination across the entire justice system.

Trusted Leadership for a Safer Jackson Parish

Immediately upon taking office, my focus will be on proactive patrol parish-wide, strengthening school safety measures already in place, and ensuring narcotics enforcement is fully staffed. I also believe it is responsible to review operations and resources to see where improvements can be made for efficiency and cost effectiveness. This will be done carefully and fairly, with respect for the capable men and women already serving in the Sheriff’s Office.

My experience spans every level of this work, including corrections, dispatch, patrol, investigations, and training. I understand how each piece functions and how important teamwork is to success. That experience allows me to lead with knowledge rather than guesswork.

The office of the Sheriff should represent something very simple and very clear to the people of Jackson Parish: help is available. No concern is too small. No call should go unanswered. Whether someone is facing a crisis, a question, or the worst moment of their life, they deserve a professional response grounded in respect, compassion, and fairness.

That expectation will be made clear to every employee.
I believe deputies should know the people they serve, and that citizens should recognize who is patrolling their community. Trust is built through presence, conversation, and consistency. When emergencies happen, we will respond with professionalism and dignity, working alongside other emergency services to serve the parish as one unified team.

This campaign is about service, accountability, and ensuring Jackson Parish remains a safe place for generations to come. I respectfully ask for your trust and your vote.

Committed to serve,
Cody Cheatwood
Candidate for Sheriff
Jackson Parish

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The Jackson Parish School District is currently collecting interest forms for our Early Childhood program. If your child will be eligible for the upcoming 26-27 school year, we encourage you to complete the form as soon as possible.

Submitting an interest form ensures you receive important enrollment information and next steps.

You can scan the QR code below, click here, or go to the following link to fill out the form – https://www.jpsb.us/198379_3

The Jackson Parish School District looks forward to partnering with your family in your child’s educational journey!

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#REALCHANGE

Paid Content

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Smurfit Westrock in Hodge, LA, is well known for its tremendous support of the local community and the charitable endeavors of organizations in Jackson Parish.

On February 18th, Smurfit Westrock once again stepped up by donating hams to the Food Bank of His Hands Ministry in Jonesboro. 

“Smurfit Westrock has always been generous to us in the past and continues to be so with these donations,” said His Ministry representative Randy Layfield. “We really appreciate their partnership. The families that receive them will be truly blessed.”

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District Ten of the Louisiana Retired Teachers Association will hold its spring District meeting on March 10, 2026, at the Lincoln Parish Library in Ruston. The center is located at 910 North Trenton Street.
District Ten of LRTA includes Caldwell, Jackson, Lincoln, Morehouse, Ouachita and Union parishes. Retired teachers from these parishes are invited to attend. Becky Solley, District X President, will preside over the meeting, which begins at 12:30 p.m.
LRTA Executive Director Dr. Paul Nelson will also discuss the upcoming 2026 Regular Session and legislation that could impact retired teachers. Additional meeting details can be found at lrta.net.

The Louisiana Retired Teachers Association is a nonprofit organization that is devoted to protecting and enhancing benefits for individuals receiving retirement benefits from the Teachers’ Retirement System of Louisiana. For more information about LRTA, visit lrta.net.

 

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The administration of Forest Haven Nursing Home and Rehabilitation Center in Jonesboro is pleased to announce that applications are now being accepted until February 27th for CNA Training Classes for newly employed team members. Interviews are also ongoing with the classes expected to begin on March 6th. 

Forest Haven Residents Celebrate Mardi Gras

Going with the idea of “since you can’t make it to the French Quarter for Mardi Gras, we’ll bring the French Quarter to you!” the administration and staff of Forest Haven Nursing Home and Rehabilitation Center helped residents “laissez les bons temps rouler” (let the good time roll). See below for a pictorial of the celebration. 

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(Monroe, Louisiana) — Louisiana Delta Community College will welcome more than 1,200 high school students from 21 regional high schools to its Monroe Campus on February 25 for its annual LDCC Day event.

LDCC Day is designed to introduce prospective students to the wide range of academic and workforce programs available at the College. Throughout the two-day event, students will participate in interactive, hands-on demonstrations led by faculty and staff across multiple program areas.

Students will explore career pathways in high-demand fields including healthcare, industrial technology, business, skilled trades, and other technical and transfer programs. Faculty will provide live demonstrations, lab experiences, and program overviews designed to help students better understand career opportunities available through postsecondary education.

“LDCC Day provides students with an opportunity to see firsthand how education connects directly to career opportunities in our region,” said Elizabeth Ford “By engaging students through hands-on learning, we are helping them envision their future.”

The event supports LDCC’s mission to increase access to education and workforce training throughout Northeast Louisiana. With more than 1,200 students attending, LDCC Day represents one of the College’s largest annual recruitment and outreach initiatives.

For more information about LDCC programs, visit ladelta.edu

 

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Weston High School is excited to announce that 25 young ladies have been selected to represent the school as junior high and varsity cheerleaders for the 2026 – 27 school year. 

Named to the varsity squad are Bailey Brown, Allison Morgan, Marlecia Paggett, Brooklyn Slaughter, Tessa Watlington, Jaylin Williams, Carly Jo Griffin, Sydnie Huie, Kiley Trosclair, Carlynn Waters, Eliza Crocker, Jordan Davis, Allie Middleton, and Evie Delaney. 

Representing WHS on the junior high team will be Amelia Onopa, Braelynn Turner, Kember Cuthrell, Henley House, Kyndall Huckaby, Ke’Niya Lard, Aspen Murphy, Ella Siddon, Jasneet Singh, Landry Thomas, and Ryan Kate Wyatt.

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William J. “Bill” Blythe Jr. had recently been honorably discharged from the Army and had just been hired as an equipment salesman by the Mankee Equipment Company of Chicago.

Immediately following World War II, so many soldiers were returning home and looking for work that jobs were scarce. 29-year-old Bill could find no work in his hometown of Hope, Arkansas, and was lucky to find work even if it required him to relocate to the “windy city.” It could not have come at a better time.

Bill’s wife, 22-year-old Virginia Dell Cassiday, was six months pregnant. After calling home with the happy news, Bill began the 750-mile drive back to Hope, Arkansas, to prepare the family for the move.

Just before midnight on May 17, 1946, Bill had driven about half of the 755 miles to Hope when, about three miles west of Sikeston, Missouri, one of the front tires on Bill’s 1942 Buick sedan blew out. Bill lost control of the car, and it rolled over twice before coming to a stop on the side of the Brown Spur drainage ditch along Highway 60.

Sikeston was surrounded by drainage ditches to help prevent flooding. Bill suffered a head injury and crawled out of the wrecked car. He could hear the sounds of passing cars and could see their headlights as they passed. He began crawling up the steep embankment toward the highway. As he was crawling, he slipped and fell into the drainage ditch, which contained four feet of water. There, he drowned.

Virginia was devastated. Three months after the accident, she had her child and named him William J. Blythe III in honor of her late husband. Everyone called him Billy. Virginia, now a single parent, went to nursing school in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Virginia’s parents took care of Billy while she was away. In 1950, Virginia returned to Hope and went to work as a nurse. In that same year, she met and married a car dealership owner named Roger.

In 1956, Roger and Virginia had a son whom they named Roger Jr. At some point, Billy Blythe began using his stepfather’s last name, and, in 1962, Billy legally changed his last name so that he and his half-brother would have the same last name.

In the following year, Billy was selected to be a delegate to Boys Nation, a special youth leadership conference held in Washington D.C. Billy was among the other boys from Boys Nation who, along with the Girls Nation, were invited to the Rose Garden at the White House to meet President John F. Kennedy. Billy was one of the first in line to shake JFK’s hand. Billy said later that meeting JFK had a profound impact on his life.

Imagine just for a second that Bill Blythe’s car wreck never occurred. Billy Blythe III would probably have been born in Chicago. The whole trajectory of his life would have been different. He probably would not have become President of the United States. If he had, we would know him as Bill Blythe rather than Bill Clinton.

 

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To have Public / Legal Notices, Business Services, Job Opportunities, Items for sale, and Wanted to Buy, Items 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

CENTURY NEXT BANK
vs 37988
S & G LOGGING CO., 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 11th day of March. 2026. Between the hours governing judicial sales, the following property to wit:

(A) 2016 TIGERCAT LOADER MODEL 234B, SERIAL NO. 2342263
(B )2016 TIGERCAT LOADER, MODEL 234B SERIAL NO. 2342386
(C) 2019 TIGERCAT SKIDDER MODEL 630e, SERIAL NO. 6304809
AND
ALL EQUIPMENT INCLUDING A 2021 JOHN DEERE 948L SKIDDER, SERIAL NO. 1DW948LBTMF712104

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

SHERIFF’S SALE

PARISH OF JACKSON
STATE OF LOUISIANA

21st MORTGAGE CORPORATION
vs 38035
ALLEN WADE OUGEL

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 11th day of March, 2026. Between the hours governing judicial sales, the following property, to wit:

2022 CHAM SKYLINE 32X56 MOBILE HOME SERIAL NUMBERS #025000HA001970A AND #025000HA001970B

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 WITHOUT the benefit of appraisal.

BRENT BARNETT, SHERIFF
EX-OFFICIO, AUCTIONEER

SHERIFF’S SALE

PARISH OF JACKSON
STATE OF LOUISIANA

TRAINA DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION
vs 37954
SHEDRICK GREEN III

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 18TH day of March. 2026. Between the hours governing judicial sales, the following property, to wit:

LOT 36, UNIT 10, BOOKER T. WASHINGTON SUBDIVISION, JONESBORO, LA 71251

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.

BRENT BARNETT, SHERIFF
EX-OFFICIO AUCTIONEER

02/04/26
03/11/26

CAREER OPPORTUNITY

Jackson Parish Library
Job Description
Tier: Level IV
Title: Bookmobile/Outreach Coordinator

Reports to: Level V to VIII
Supervises: Level I to III
Experience: High School Diploma or GED and 6 years of job-related experience.
Pay Rate/Hour: $12.00 – $15.00
Pay Rate/Annual: $22,880.00 – $31,200.00
Full Time

Duties:
• Maintain the bookmobile by daily inspection to ensure the vehicle is in good working order; check tires, fuel, oil, generator, etc., and report any problems to the supervisor; keep the inside of the vehicle clean and tidy.
• Maintain organized records of bookmobile maintenance and inspections.
• Schedule regular maintenance, and/or repair and cleaning of the outside as needed.
• Drive the Bookmobile to scheduled stops, appointments, maintenance/repair sites, special events, etc.
• Plan, prep, and facilitate Bookmobile and Outreach programs.
• Assist with in-house circulation and reference duties when needed.
• Assist with Summer Reading and other Programming planning, coordinate with Supervisors, Youth Librarians, and Programming Librarians.
• Supervise and train staff as needed.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
This position will cross-train with other positions as deemed necessary by management.

Requirements:
• 18 yrs. of age or older.
• Maintain a Chauffeur’s License; able and willing to drive bookmobile.
• Successful completion of a two-month probationary period.
• Able to repeatedly lift 15-25 lbs.
• Be physically able to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Good knowledge of basic library methods, techniques, and procedures.
• Some knowledge of reader interest levels.
• Good ability to maintain library records and carry out library procedures.
• Considerable ability to understand and follow written and oral directions.
• Considerable ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers and the public and to
conduct oneself with tact and courtesy.
• Demonstrated ability to perform essential job duties.
• Ability to work under minimal supervision.

The Library offers benefits, including an excellent retirement plan, vacation, sick leave, and health insurance. Employees may advance to higher positions according to their abilities, qualifications, and based on the needs of the library.

Applications and resumes may be submitted by mail or in person at the Main Branch in Jonesboro, located at:
614 South Polk Avenue
Jonesboro, La 71251

or by email to mainbranch@jacksonparishlib.org

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this position. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all job duties performed by personnel so designated.

CAREER OPPORTUNITY

Jackson Parish Library
Job Description
Tier: Level III
Title: Bookmobile/Outreach Specialist

Reports to: Level IV to VIII
Supervises: None
Experience: High School Diploma or GED and 2 to 3 years of job-related experience.
Pay Rate/Hour: $8.00 – $12.00
Pay Rate/Annual: $16,640.00 – $ 22,880.00
Full Time

Duties:
Maintain the bookmobile by daily inspection to ensure the vehicle is in good working order; check tires, fuel, oil, generator, etc., and report any problems to the supervisor; keep the inside of the vehicle clean and tidy.
Maintain organized records of bookmobile maintenance and inspections.
Schedule regular maintenance and/or repair and cleaning of the outside as needed.
Drive the Bookmobile to scheduled stops, appointments, maintenance/repair sites, special events, etc.
Assist with Bookmobile and Outreach programs.
Assist with in-house circulation and reference duties when needed.
Performs other duties as assigned.
This position will cross-train with other positions as deemed necessary by management.
Requirements:
18 yrs. of age or older.
Maintain a Chauffeur’s License; able and willing to drive a bookmobile.
Successful completion of a two-month probationary period.
Able to repeatedly lift 15-25 lbs.
Be physically able to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation.
Good knowledge of basic library methods, techniques and procedures.
Some knowledge of reader interest levels.
Good ability to maintain library records and carry out library procedures.
Considerable ability to understand and follow written and oral directions.
Considerable ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers and the public and to conduct oneself
with tact and courtesy.
Demonstrated ability to perform essential job duties.
Ability to work under minimal supervision.

The Library offers benefits, including an excellent retirement plan, vacation, sick leave, and health insurance. Employees may advance to higher positions according to their abilities, qualifications, and based on the needs of the library.

Applications and resumes may be submitted by mail or in person at the Main Branch in Jonesboro, located at:
614 South Polk Avenue
Jonesboro, La 71251

or by email to mainbranch@jacksonparishlib.org

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this position. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all job duties performed by personnel so designated.

CAREER OPPORTUNITY

BUSINESS SERVICES

BUSINESS SERVICES

BUSINESS SERVICES

Ruffled Feathers Photography
208 Jimmie Davis Blvd
Jonesboro, LA|
(318) 395 – 1022

NONE

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This past week, Kim Whitman tendered her resignation as manager of the Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce, having served in the position since July 2025. In leaving to concentrate on working in ministry with husband Michael, who is pastor of Central Assembly of God in Winnfield, LA, Whitman provided the following statement. 

“I would like to express my sincere gratitude to all the businesses of Jackson Parish for the opportunity to serve you as the Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce manager. During my time here, I have had the privilege of meeting and working with so many amazing business owners who contribute to the vitality and character of our community.

In my relatively short tenure, I have witnessed firsthand the dedication and passion of local entrepreneurs. Our businesses bring energy, innovation, and heart to our parish. The ongoing collaborations with new members have shown me what is possible when the business community works together. 

I will miss the daily interactions with business owners, the shared enthusiasm at our events, and the opportunities to showcase the outstanding products and services that make Jackson Parish unique. I am confident that all businesses in Jackson Parish will continue to thrive. 

I wish the very best for every business in our parish. May the next manager for the JPCC bring exciting ideas, strong partnerships, and a forward-looking strategy that strengthens our local economy and enhances the quality of life for all residents. 

Thank you for the support, guidance, and friendship extended to me during my time here. I look forward to watching the business’s continued success from afar and to cheering on the bright future of Jackson Parish.”

With warm regards,

Kim Whitman

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In an effort to encourage a more nutritious diet and improve public health, on February 18th, the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) restrictions prohibiting the purchase of specific sugar-laden items with Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT)cards went into effect.

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Food Restriction Waiver restricts recipients from buying soft drinks, energy drinks, candy, gum, and mints using their benefits. These items can still be purchased with cash, debit, or other funds.

Items such as fruits and vegetables, meats, poultry, fish, dairy products l, breads, cereals, grains, and seeds and plants for growing food at home were unaffected by the change and still able to be purchased with an EBT card. 

For more information, email LAHelpU@la.gov or call 888-524-3578 (LAHELPU).

 

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The Black Cats feel might blue today after their pursuit of gold fell short with the pain they are suffering being dealt by the blue and gold of #6 seed Quitman High School, who beat #11 Florien 59-55 in the regional round of the LHSAA Class B tournament.

The hard-fought victory improved Quitman to 22-7 and vaulted the Lady Wolverines to the Quarterfinal round for the second year in a row, an accomplishment last achieved in 2000-21. Florien exits the playoffs with an 18-13 record.

While the lofty position that QHS has achieved is something that hasn’t taken place since before any member of the team was even born, eliminating Florien from the playoffs has become old hat as the victory marked the second time in three years that Quitman has emerged with the upper hand. 

“I am so proud of these girls. The way they played was incredible,” exalted winning coach Kyle Leach. “They have played their tails off this whole season, and their hard work and determination really showed tonight.” 

Pullig Power! Every so often, a player comes along who, the bigger the game, the better they play. Hallie Kate Pullig is such a player. The sophomore post player had already exhibited her flair for stepping up on the biggest stage when, as an 8th grader she was named MVP of the Class B state championship game in softball. Now she has done the same on the hardwood. Pullig played an integral role in the victory by posting a “double-double”  for only the second time this season as she scored 13 points and pulled down a team high 13 rebounds, both equaling her second-best effort ever in her brief career. 

“Hallie Kate played phenomenally and was a big reason we were successful in winning the game,” beamed Leach. “She was very strong in the paint and rebounded the ball as well as she has ever done! She was also unstoppable inside scoring the ball. Her toughness and desire were simply awesome!

Anna Again! As has been the case all year, Anna Claire Leach led Quitman in scoring, this time with 26 points. More importantly, when it became “crunch time,” Leach displayed the offensive ability that led her to become a 1000 career point scorer earlier this season in just a little over two years. This was exhibited by the scoring sensation taking over when Quitman was trailing 51-50 as she sank a free throw and made one of her six three pointers on the ensuing possession to give Quitman a 54-51 lead that the Lady Wolverines never relinquished.  

Strong support! While Leach and Pullig accounted for 39 of Quitman’s 59 points (66%), the Lady Wolverines would not be in the position of knocking on the state tournaments door were it not for the strong supporting cast of Allie Robertson, Kinsley Ponder, Kalisa Hall, Taylor Borland and Emma Walker, all who came up big in crucial moments during a tense second half. With the score tied at 31-31, it was Robertson, who made 3 three three-pointers in the contest, who sank a pair of “long bombs” that played a major role in helping Quitman turn back a concerted rally effort by Florien. Ponder, Hall, Borland, and Walker also came up with big baskets and important rebounds down the stretch that proved pivotal. 

 

“Allie hit some big threes, and Kinsley brought toughness and tenacity coming off the bench,” said Leach. “Then there is Taylor Borland, who is just like a pitbull. She is going to scrap and just get after people. Emma Walker played phenomenal defense and rebounded the ball well and Kalisa Hall came off the bench to give us some valuable minutes.” 

UP NEXT! Standing in the way of Quitman making the state tournament for the first time since 2001 and only the fourth time ever is the winner of fellow Jackson Parish hopeful Weston, seeded #14, who advanced by beating #19 Simsboro 67-51 in the first round and #3 seed Fairview, the back-to-back defending Class B state champion, which is also one of the most prolific teams in Louisiana girls basketball history and in the entire nation over the past 20 years. 

“Naturally, we are pulling for Weston to win, as first, they are from Jackson Parish, and we always pull for our local schools to be successful,” said Quitman skipper Kyle Leach. “Secondly, if Weston wins, that gives up another home game, where we have proven to be tough to beat.”

To give an idea of just how daunting a task Weston has to advance to the quarterfinals and make it an all Jackson Parish matchup, you must take into consideration just how good Fairview is and has been. A comparison of the career records of the two “Kyle’s”, who are the head coaches of Quitman and Fairview, over the past quarter-century lends a little credence. Kyle Leach, the Quitman skipper, is the longest tenured coach in Jackson Parish, while also having the most wins with 362 in 26 years of being a head coach. In 28 years at Fairview, Kyle Jenks has won an incredible 1044 games, which is a mindboggling average of a little over 37 wins per season for nearly 3 decades. 14 state titles, and a string of 16 straight years of reaching the final four in the LHSAA state tournament, which includes 6 straight championship game appearances.

 

If there is a hope of an opportunity for Weston, and if they fail, then Quitman to triumph over one of the nation’s best teams over the last two decades, regardless of classification, it is that Fairview has lost more games this year (9) than they have just twice in the last 20 years. To put that into perspective, though, 7 of the losses came against Division 1 schools, and the other two came at the hands of Division IV’s #1-ranked team. Still, Leach is optimistic about his team’s chances to advance to the state tournament regardless of who they play.

“This team has given all they have in every game they played all year,” said Leach, bragging on his girls. “They have been a joy to coach, and I wouldn’t put anything past them in their ability to play with anyone. Whether we are playing again at home or going to go into one of the toughest places to play in the state, our coaching staff and team are full of confidence that we can win.”

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