The Student/Athletes of the Week for January 18-24 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 a select group of faculty and staff from the representative institutions and will receive a special Jackson Parish Hospital Athlete of the Week t-shirt.
Earning accolades this week are:
Aiden Faulkner – Junior on the WHS boys basketball team Derryn Osborne – Freshman on the JHHS girls basketball team Asher Schultz – Senior on the QHS boys basketball team
Join the Jackson Parish Hospital and the Jackson Parish Journal as we congratulate and applaud these athletes for their dedication and achievements in the classroom and their outstanding athletic endeavors!
The Jackson Parish Hospital is pleased to announce the winners of the 2025 4th quarter (October – December) Community Photography Contest. Names of the portraits and those who submitted them to be showcased on the walls of the Jackson Parish Hospital are shown below.
New Year! New Entries!
The 2026 version of the Jackson Parish Community Photography Contest is accepting entries for the 1st quarter (January 1 – March 31).
Remember that photos that were not selected in the quarter before can be resubmitted this quarter. To submit or resubmit a photo click here or go to https://bit.ly/484jizM.
Maddox Duck (r) of Quitman High School and partner Benton Terry (l) are in second place in the NELAHS Anglers season standings after the tournament on Caney Lake last weekend
Maddox Duck of Quitman High School and his partner Benton Terry are in second place in the Northeast Louisiana High School Anglers overall standings after the third tournament of the season held on Caney Lake on February 7th.
The pair turned in the best performance among local anglers with a 9th-place finish on the local fishery, with a stringer of four fish that weighed 7.04 pounds.
Jake Vail and Jaxon Cheatwood of Quitman High School stand at #14 in the season-to-date standings, with Shepard Norred and Jackson Ables of Quitman High School checking in at #15, which is the second-highest-ranked team in the Junior Division.
After a 10th-place finish in the tournament, Hailey Chatham and partner Ben Ramsey, representing Weston High School, moved to #16 in the overall standings, giving Chatham the distinction of being the highest rated female on the circuit.
Also representing Quitman High School are the two-person teams of Tucker Masters and Chance Lemoine, along with Drew Caldwell and Asher Norred, who are ranked #35 and #36 in the overall standings.
Jaxen Culpepper and Hayden Essmeier (QHS) moved into the 46th position overall after their 14th-place finish on Caney Lake while Lily Duck and Reese Womack (QHS) stand at #47 overall.
Jonesboro-Hodge High School announces that Saturday School for attendance recovery is scheduled for 7:00 – 11:00 am on Saturday, February 21st.
Notifications have been sent via JCampus to parents of truant students who are required to attend.
ATTENDANCE MATTERS!
The month of January was considered a huge success for school attendance, as for the first time, the goal set forth by the Jackson Parish School District (JPSD) of having 90% in attendance at each school was met. For the district, the combined attendance average was at 93, led by the 94.24% set by Quitman High School. The JPSD applauds all students, families, and staff for helping achieve this goal by showing up and showing out every day. Next goal! 95% attendance for all schools.
Reverend Dr. Reginald L. Staten, Pastor and the congregation of Pleasant Grove Missionary Baptist Church, located at 908 Evergreen Road in Jonesboro, LA, cordially invite you to join them at 10:00 am on Sunday, February 22nd, for Black History Month Celebration.
Presenting the theme of “A Heritage of Unshakable Faith” will be Special Guest Speaker Dr. Martin Lemelle Jr., President of Grambling State University in Grambling, LA.
Local businesses, organizations, and individuals are being asked to donate to the annual Jackson Parish Special Education Field Day fundraiser. This annual special day that is expected to have over 100 children participating will be held on March 25th, 2026, and is not funded by the schools or the school board, so your assistance is much needed.
Please help our local youth who require extra assistance daily, who need a para by their side during school tasks, and may become overwhelmed by the lights and sounds at a regular school event.Your donations help to cover the costs of t-shirts (our largest expense) for each student, participation medals for each student, snow cones, water, refreshments, and new equipment needed for stations.
Listed below are ways of making donations through payment apps. Thank you in advance for any and every donation!
The Jackson Parish Youth Basketball League concluded its regular season last Saturday, ending the year that saw 215 youth from the ages of 5-14 compete in seven divisions consisting of four teams each. For the first time ever a postseason had been scheduled with playoffs for boys age divisions 9-10, 11-12, and 13-14, along with the 10-13 girls age division scheduled for Saturday, February 21st at the JHHS girls and boys gymnasiums. Entire playoff brackets will be shown in the Wednesday, February 18th edition of the Jackson Parish Journal.
Thanks to the generosity of Ashley Wyatt, owner of Ruffled Feathers Photography, shown below are the regular-season champions of each league. Team or individual pictures of players can be purchased at Ruffled Feathers Photography, located at 208 Jimmie Davis Blvd. in Jonesboro or through the Ruffled Feathers Photography Facebook page.
Local high school students, who are in the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program at their respective schools, are earning hands-on clinical hours/training at Forest Haven Nursing and Rehabilitation Centerin Jonesboro.
A Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) provides essential, hands-on daily care to patients, working under the supervision of nurses (RNs/LPNs) in hospitals, nursing homes, and home health settings. They assist with activities of daily living (bathing, dressing, toileting), take vital signs, and provide emotional support. Certification requires completing a state-approved program and passing a competency exam.
There is a remarkable act of nature starting to take place any day now. A few years ago, I was turkey hunting when I saw something that fascinated me. As I sat overlooking a food plot, a deer stepped out 40 yards or so away, followed by a second and then a third deer. They lingered just long enough for me to get a good look at them, but there was no time to snap a photo.
The interesting thing I noticed about these three deer, something I’d never seen before, was that all three were bucks that had only recently shed their antlers. Each of the three had prominent circles – pedicles – on their heads where last year’s antlers had grown.
Somewhere back in the woods, there would have been a prize to find: the dropped antlers from these three.
When we’re out there deer hunting and a buck steps out, our only interest in antlers is the size of the rack.
Is it a trophy or one with a smaller rack that indicates it’s a young deer? If a small rack, most of us let the youngster walk, realizing that next year, that little basket-racked six-point buck may have grown an impressive set of headgear.
Here’s what happens in the world of the deer. Buck deer drop their antlers in late winter or early spring. Soon after losing their headgear, they start growing a new set of antlers they’ll have until this time next year. This new set begins as fuzzy knobs growing on the pedicles, which are located on the buck’s head between his eyes and ears. The newly formed antlers are soft and subject to damage, and for this reason, bucks are shy and reclusive; they’re protective of this new growth.
A couple of months before shedding antlers, bucks use them to hook and thrash bushes, brush, and small saplings and to fight other bucks to establish dominance. Bushes and bucks are in no danger of being gored and thrashed in spring and summer because he is protecting his newly forming soft antlers.
According to a source I read about the growth of deer antlers, velvet is described as “vascular skin that supplies oxygen and nutrients to the growing bone.” This amazing material causes the antler it covers to grow at an amazing rate. In fact, deer antlers grow faster than any other mammal’s bone. This fast rate of growth actually is a handicap to a buck because of the incredible nutritional demand on deer to re-grow antlers annually.
Once the antlers achieve their full potential for the year, usually by mid-September in our part of the world, the velvet has served its purpose, and as it dries and is rubbed off on bushes by the buck, the antler bone actually dies, and here’s something I read that gave me pause. What deer hunters see when that big buck comes slipping by the stand is an animal sporting a head full of dead bone.
A fun activity many deer hunters like to pursue now that hunting seasons are over is to search for dropped antlers. There is a measure of excitement to hold in your hands the headgear of a big buck that will whet your appetite for what he’ll look like once hunting seasons roll around again this coming fall.
The entire process of bucks growing velvet-covered, delicate antlers to them becoming hardened and eventually being shed, just to do it all again every year, is one of nature’s most amazing and fascinating activities.
“Buck deer shed their antlers, which are actually dead bone, this time of year.” Glynn Harris photo
FISHING REPORT
CANEY LAKE – Bass are beginning to move up as the day warms with lipless crank baits starting to produce. Crappie have moved up in response to warmer temps anticipating the spawn in a few weeks. 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 are hanging out around the brush with spawning time just around the corner. Bass are in the timber and flipping jigs is picking up some fish. OUACHITA RIVER – The water is still quite low because of lock and dam problems down stream. Fishing overall is slow for bass and crappie. For latest information, contact the Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707. LAKE D’ARBONNE – Bass are starting to move up preparing for the spawn. Jigs and crank baits are picking up some. Crappie are moving up around brush and timber and some are being caught on shiners and jigs.. For latest information, call Anderson Sport Center at 368-9669 or Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707. LAKE CLAIBORNE – Crappie are beginning to move away from the deeper water and startng to hang out around mid-depth brush. Jigs and shiners are picking up some. Bass are hitting crank baits, spinners and soft plastics around brush . For latest information, call Kel’s Cove at 927-2264 or Terzia Tackle at 278-4498. LAKE POVERTY POINT – Catfish are good while crappie and bass are still on the slow side. For information, call the marina at 318/878-0101. LAKE YUCATAN – The lake level is on a slight rise. Buffalo and catfish are being caught in nets. Bass and crappie haven’t kicked in yet. For info call Surplus City Landing at 318/467-2259.
Vocal clinician Robin Curtis works with singers during a coaching session.
Women from across North Louisiana are invited to take part in a free, one-day vocal workshop, “Find Your Voice: Empowering Women Through Song,” set for Saturday, March 7, in Ruston.
The workshop, hosted by Southern A’Chord Chorus, is made possible through a state arts grant and will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the fellowship hall of the Presbyterian Church of Ruston, located at 212 N. Bonner St.
Led by nationally recognized vocal coach Robin Curtis of Texarkana, the event will focus on healthy vocal production, ensemble singing and skill-building for women singers of varying experience levels. The day will include large-group instruction as well as smaller breakout sessions.
Curtis has decades of successful vocal coaching in her background and currently teaches voice in Texarkana, where her focus is on pop and pageant preparation. She has also worked with multiple choruses and quartets that have won numerous medals in competition from regional to international levels. One of her most recent accolades is serving as education director for the national women’s singing group, TRU Harmony A Cappella.
“Group singing can have amazing health benefits for all ages, both physical and psychological,” Curtis said. “If you can carry a tune, then you can learn new vocal skills to improve and reap those benefits.”
While the workshop itself is geared toward participants, the public is invited to attend the concluding portion of the day, when singers will share what they have learned during the session through a short performance.
Pre-registration by Feb. 28 is encouraged, though walk-ins will be welcomed as space allows. Open to women ages 16 and older, the workshop includes lunch for all participants. To pre-register, go to bit.ly/women-sing.
For more information about Southern A’Chord, interested singers are encouraged to visit the website southernachordchorus.org or the Facebook page Southern A’Chord Chorus. The women’s a cappella community chorus was formed in 2024 and draws members from several parishes.
“Even though Southern A’Chord is based in Ruston,” said director Candice Bassett, of Grayson, “we consider the community we serve much bigger. We are hoping to reach women who are looking for a way to find their voice, gain confidence and be part of something that can empower them to do even more. Singing together bridges gaps and breaks down barriers, helping us see we are more alike than different.”
The workshop is supported by a grant from the Louisiana Division of the Arts, the Office of Cultural Development, and the Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism in cooperation with the Louisiana State Arts Council, as administered by the Northeast Louisiana Arts Council. Funding has also been provided by the National Endowment for the Arts.
Additional local funding comes from Century Next Bank, Jonesboro State Bank, Origin Bank and the CPA firm of Kenneth D. Folden & Co. in Jonesboro.
Every so often, Scripture taps us on the shoulder and whispers a truth we’d rather not admit out loud—especially not in front of the church council. It’s this: if there’s a polished saint on one side of the room and a repentant rascal on the other, the Lord tends to wander over to the rascal. And He does it with a kind of divine twinkle that says, “Watch what grace can do.”
This is not a minor theme. It’s practically the Bible’s greatest hits album.
Take Jacob. If your church had a background-check policy, Jacob wouldn’t even get to hand out bulletins. He lies, cheats, manipulates, and still God says, “That one. I’ll build a nation from that one.” Esau is out there doing CrossFit and being responsible. Jacob is stirring soup and plotting. And God chooses him anyway.
Or Rahab—whose résumé would not get her anywhere near the nursery sign-up sheet. Yet she becomes the hero of Jericho and ends up in Jesus’ family tree. God seems to delight in saying, “Your past doesn’t disqualify you. It’s the very place My grace shines brightest.”
And then there’s David. A man after God’s own heart… and also the star of several episodes that would make Dateline blush. Yet God keeps restoring him, using him, singing over him.
Meanwhile, Saul—tall, impressive, polished—gets sidelined for trying too hard to look holy.
Peter is the apostle who could derail a committee meeting in under thirty seconds. He denies Jesus, misunderstands half the parables, and once cut off a man’s ear. Jesus hands him the keys to the kingdom anyway.
Zacchaeus? A professional cheat. A man who would overcharge you for your own tithe envelope. Jesus sees him and says, “Lunch at your place.” The crowd is scandalized. Jesus is delighted.
And the woman at the well—five husbands, a complicated story, and a reputation that made her the talk of the town. Jesus chooses her as the first evangelist of Samaria. The disciples are baffled. Jesus is not.
God consistently gravitates toward: the messy over the manicured, the repentant over the respectable, the hungry over the holy-looking, and the honest sinner over the polished saint.
Why? Because saints tend to bring their résumés. Scoundrels bring their need.
Saints say, “Look what I’ve done for You.” Scoundrels say, “Lord, have mercy.” And God has always been drawn to the sound of mercy being asked for.
If you feel like a spiritual overachiever, God loves you—but He may ask you to scoot over so a tax collector can sit down.
If you feel like a spiritual disaster, God loves you—and He’s probably already pulling up a chair.
The gospel is not “God helps those who help themselves.” The gospel is “God helps those who can’t even pretend to help themselves.”
And thank the Lord for that, because most of us are one bad day away from enrolling in Jacob’s School of Holy Mischief.
To have your Business Services, Job Opportunities, Items for sale, Wanted to Buy, and Public / Legal Notices published – send an email to: jpjjacksonla@gmail.com or call 318-480-1206. Possible costs are dependent on the content.
SHERIFF’S SALE
PARISH OF JACKSON STATE OF LOUISIANA
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.
The Water Boil Advisory that had been in effect since Tuesday, February 10th, for consumers in select areas of the Town of Jonesboro has been lifted.
Jonesboro Mayor J. “Spike” Harris issued the statement that the drinking water was safe for consumption once again at 11:15 am on Thursday, February 12th.
The precautionary advisory had been put in place for those on Gilbert Street, Forest Drive, South Polk Street, Goodwood Drive, Louise Street, Pinehill Drive, Industrial Drive, Jan Circle, Tyler Street, Anna Street, Thrasher Drive, Branch Street, Hill Street, Elm Street, Jones Street, and Gansville Road, after a main 6″ water line had ruptured.
Areas in the southern section of the Town of Jonesboro are under a Water Boil Advisory and will remain so until further notice. The notice was issued by Jonesboro Mayor J. “Spike” Harris on Tuesday, February 11th, after a blowout on a main water line in the Gilbert Street area.
The advisory ONLY affects consumers on: Gilbert Street, Forest Drive, South Polk Street, Goodwood Drive, Louise Street, Pinehill Drive, Industrial Drive, Jan Circle, Tyler Street, Anna Street, Thrasher Drive, Branch Street, Hill Street, Elm Street, Jones Street, and Gansville Road.
The notice was issued by Jonesboro Mayor J. “Spike” Harris on Tuesday, February 11th, after a blowout on a main water line in the Gilbert Street area.
WHAT IS A BOIL WATER ADVISORY?
A boil water advisory is a public notification advising customers to boil tap water before consuming it. Advisories are issued when an event has occurred with the potential to adversely affect water quality
What to Do During a Boil Water Advisory
Boiling water
To boil water • Fill a pot with water. • Heat the water until bubbles come from the bottom of the pot to the top. • Once the water reaches a rolling boil, let it boil for 1 minute. • Turn off the heat source and let the water cool. • Pour the water into a clean container with a cover for storage.
Disinfecting water
If you are unable to boil your water, disinfect it instead.
If tap water is clear: • Use unscented bleach (bleach that does not have an added scent). • Add 1/8 teaspoon (8 drops or about 0.75 milliliters) of unscented household liquid bleach to 1 gallon (16 cups) of water. • Mix well and wait 30 minutes or more before drinking. • Store disinfected water in clean container with a cover.
If tap water is cloudy: • Filter water using clean cloth. • Use unscented bleach (bleach that does not have an added scent). • Add 1/4 teaspoon (16 drops or 1.5 milliliters) of unscented household liquid bleach to 1 gallon (16 cups) of water. • Mix well and wait 30 minutes or more before drinking. • Store disinfected water in clean container with a cover.
Remember that containers may need to be sanitized before using them to store safe water.
To sanitize containers:
• Use unscented bleach (bleach that does not have an added scent). • Make a sanitizing solution by mixing 1 teaspoon (5 milliliters) of unscented household liquid bleach in 1 quart (32 ounces, 4 cups, or about 1 liter) of water. • Pour this sanitizing solution into a clean storage container and shake well, making sure that the solution coats the entire inside of the container. • Let the clean storage container sit at least 30 seconds, and then pour the solution out of the container. • Let empty container air dry OR rinse it with clean water that has already been made safe, if available.
Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaners. Open windows and doors to get fresh air when you use bleach.
Water filters
Boil tap water even if it is filtered. Most kitchen and other household water filters typically do not remove bacteria or viruses.
Preparing and cooking food
• Wash all fruits and vegetables with boiled water that has cooled or bottled water. • Bring water to a rolling boil for 1 minute before adding food to cook. • Use boiled water when preparing drinks, such as coffee, tea, and lemonade • Wash food preparation surfaces with boiled water.
Feeding babies and using formula
• Breastfeeding is best. Continue to breastfeed. If breastfeeding is not an option: • Use ready-to-use baby formula, if possible. • Prepare powdered or concentrated baby formula with bottled water. Use boiled water if you do not have bottled water. Disinfect water for baby formula if you cannot boil your water (see above for directions on how to use bleach to disinfect water). • Wash and sterilize bottles and nipples before use. If you cannot sterilize bottles, try to use single-serve, ready-to-feed bottles.
Ice
• Do not use ice from ice trays, ice dispensers, or ice makers. • Throw out all ice made with tap water. • Make new ice with boiled or bottled water.
Bathing and showering
Be careful not to swallow any water when bathing or showering. Use caution when bathing babies and young children. Consider giving them a sponge bath to reduce the chance of them swallowing water.
Brushing teeth
Brush teeth with boiled or bottled water. Do not use untreated tap water.
Washing dishes
Household dishwashers generally are safe to use if the water reaches a final rinse temperature of at least 150 degrees or if the dishwasher has a sanitizing cycle.
To wash dishes by hand:
• Wash and rinse the dishes as you normally would using hot water. • In a separate basin, add 1 teaspoon of unscented household liquid bleach for each gallon of warm water. • Soak the rinsed dishes in the water for at least one minute. • Let the dishes air dry completely.
Laundry
It is safe to do laundry as usual.
Pets
Pets can get some of the same diseases as people. It is a good idea to give them boiled water that has been cooled.
The Jackson Parish School District (JPSD) announces that, as the water issue has been resolved, all JPSD schools will be open for classes on Thursday, February 12th.
“We look forward to seeing everyone back on campus on Thursday. Thank you for your patience and understanding.” – Jackson Parish School District
The Jackson Parish Ambulance Service District (JPASD) in Jonesboro, LA, has provided the Fire District Stations in Jonesboro, Hodge, Quitman, Ward 3, and Ward 4 with Community Responder Cabinets and Medical Response Bags.
Through the Cooperative Endeavor Agreement (CEA) between the JPASD and the Jackson Parish Police Jury, this investment reinforces a shared commitment to the safety, health, and resilience of all Jackson Parish residents and visitors.
Items included in the Emergency Response Cabinets and Med Response Bags: *Fully Automated External Defibrillator (AED) *LifeVac (Choking Rescue device for Adult and Child) *CPR Rescue masks (for Adult and Child) *PPE (gloves) *Narcan (Opioid overdose reversal medication) *CAT Tourniquet (Tourniquet for controlling significant bleeding)
Emergency Response Cabinets have been installed at Jonesboro, Hodge, Quitman, and Ward 3 & 4 Fire Stations
Medical Response Bags have also been distributed to Jonesboro, Hodge, Quitman, and Ward 3 & 4 Fire Stations
After beginning the process of reviewing applications for the Family Relief Effort, the United Way of Northeast La. has made the following statement in order to be transparent with our community.
In the span of 48 hours, we have received more than 8,700 applications for assistance through the Family Relief Effort. The need we are seeing is significant, and we are continuing to work aggressively to secure additional resources. At the same time, we are also moving quickly to help families facing the most urgent situations with the resources currently available.
Round 1 of assistance will focus on a group of applicants who have been carefully reviewed and selected based on: -Urgency of need for food and basic necessities -Impact on hardworking ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) families struggling to make ends meet (more on ALICE here: unitedwaynela.org/alice) -A lottery process will be used to ensure fairness and equity when the need exceeds available resources
This approach allows us to respond immediately to urgent needs while maintaining transparency, dignity, and fairness. Additional rounds of assistance will depend on the availability of resources as we continue fundraising and community partnerships.
We are grateful for the patience of those who have applied and for the generosity of our community as we work to meet this moment together.
(Monday, February 9) – The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) announces the start of an emergency tree debris removal project in Jackson Parish along all State Highways as needed.
Work on the project is scheduled to begin immediately. Intermittent lane closures and shoulder closures will be used to allow for tree removal operations on all state routes as needed.
Following these initial lane closures, motorists should expect ongoing intermittent lane closures on all routes to allow for construction work to progress safely and efficiently. Drivers should anticipate some delays, particularly during peak travel times.
Safety reminder: DOTD appreciates your patience and reminds you to please drive with caution through the construction site and be on the lookout for work crews and their equipment. Remember to leave plenty of room between you and the vehicle in front of you.
Area residents should exercise caution when driving, walking, or biking near an active construction zone.
Additional information: Call 511, visit www.511la.org, or download the Louisiana 511 mobile app for additional travel information. Out-of-state travelers may call 1-888-ROAD-511 (1-888-762-3511). Motorists may also monitor the LA DOTD website at www.dotd.la.gov, by selecting MyDOTD, or by visiting the DOTD Facebook and X (Twitter) pages.
When I am elected Sheriff, one of my main goals will be to connect with the young people in our parish. Kids and teenagers are the future of our community and helping them now will make our neighborhoods safer and stronger. I want to build trust, respect, and guidance between law enforcement and our youth. My plan includes three main steps:
School Programs: Working with schools to teach students about safety, making good choices, and how to solve problems without violence. Learning these skills early can help young people avoid trouble and stay on the right path.
Mentorship and Activities: I will create programs where deputies spend time with kids through community events. When young people see officers as mentors and role models, they are more likely to make positive choices.
Community Partnerships: I will work with churches and local groups to give kids safe places to learn and grow. Everyone deserves to feel supported and have opportunities to succeed.
My goal is to build strong connections between law enforcement and youth. When kids know someone cares about them and their future, our whole community becomes stronger and safer. When I am elected as sheriff, I will listen, care, and work hard for the next generation.
Together, we can help our youth grow into the leaders our parish needs. A vote for me is a vote for REAL CHANGE!
Jesse Magee Candidate for Sheriff
Real Change. Ethical Leader. Transparent. #REALCHANGE
Brayden Martin of Quitman High School became the 5th area player to reach the 1000 career point plateau this year.
On February 6th, another major milestone in area high school athletics was achieved when became the third Quitman High School and 5th area basketball player to join the “1000 Career Point Club” this season.
Martin joins fellow QHS basketball players Anna Claire Leach and Brayden Smith, along with Gavin Dailey and Eli Ferguson of Saline High School, to set a new record of most area players to break the 1000 career point barrier in one season.
JHMS Boys Basketball Earns Quarterfinal Berth at Junior High State Tournament
A tremendously productive season for the Jonesboro-Hodge Middle School Cubs came to an end on Saturday, February 7th, in the Quarterfinals of the Louisiana State Junior High Tournament played in Fant-Ewing Coliseum on the campus of the University of Louisiana – Monroe (ULM).
The Cubs advanced to the Quarterfinal round against Southfield of Shreveport by downing Crowville Junior High in the opening round of the eight-team tourney.
Leading the Cubs in scoring in the quarterfinal contest for JHMS was Quantavious Campbell with 5 points. Levi Martin and Kayden Malone both had 3 points while Jason McNeil, Corey Campbell, and Aiden Watkin all made two points apiece.
In the first round of the tournament, JHMS beat Crowville 41-31 paced by 19 points from Corey Campbell. Also contributing was Jason McNeil and Levi Martin with 7 points apiece and 3 points by Graylon Hendricks and Carter Sanders. Rounding out the scoring was Quantavious Campbell and Kamarian Thompson with 2 points each and Leeland Anderson hitting a free throw.
Under the tutelage of head coach Carlos Hicks, the Cubs ended the regular season with a solid 6-2 record that included posting a five game winning streak where JHMS won by 20 or more points in each game.
Taden Thomas and Ella Simonelli of QHS Qualify for State 3 Point Shooting Contest
Taden Thomas (l) and Ella Simonelli (r) won the girls and boys divisions of the Northeast Louisiana Regional 3-Point Shooting Contest held at Cedar Creek High School on Feb. 7th
The Quitman High School girls and boys basketball teams are hoping to qualify for the upcoming state tournament. If they do so, they will join a pair of QHS hoopsters, Taden Thomas and Ella Simonelli, who have already earned the right to participate in state competition.
The pair of Quitman sharpshooters will participate in the Louisiana High School Basketball Coaches Association (LHSBCA) State 3-Point Shooting Championship after being declared champions of the Northeast Louisiana 3-Point Shooting Contest that was held at Cedar Creek High School on February 7th.
The competition round for the state title will be held on March 21st during halftime of the LHSAA All-Star game that will be played in the Legacy Center on the campus of McNeese State University in Lake Charles, LA.
Area Preps To Put Finishing Touches on District Schedules
With area high school girls and boys basketball teams forced to scramble to make adjustments to the season schedule as a result of the ice storm that plaqued north Louisiana last week, contests are slated to be played every day beginning on Wednesday, February 11th, through Saturday, February 14th.
Included are several schools looking at contests with serious district championship ramifications, including the JHHS girls in District 1-1A, both Quitman squads in 1B competition, the Lady Wolves of Weston, and the girls team from Saline.
Wednesday, February 11th – The action begins when Jonesboro-Hodge (13-15, 3-1) entertains the Division IV 3rd-ranked team and district 1-1A leader Arcadia (19-6, 5-0), where a victory by the Lady Tigers will vault them into a tie for first place in the loss column. The boys contest will follow, pitting JHHS, who has won their last two district games to move to 2-2 in 1-1A play and 6-20 overall, hosting the co-district leader Hornets, which comes in with a 5-0 record in district play and sits at 11-9 overall.
Thursday, February 12th – District 1B battles take center stage with both the Quitman High girls and boys looking to draw closer to district titles with a victory against new district member Providence Classical Academy out of Bossier City. With both squads sitting at 3-0 in district play, a victory secures at least a tie for the title. Also of note is that if the Lady Wolverines win, it will improve their record to 20-7, giving both QHS teams 20-win seasons as the Wolverines are already at 21-4 on the year.
Weston High School will travel to Castor, where the Lady Wolves will look to remain perfect for the month of February and become a 20-game winner in head coach Matt Herring’s first season. Seeking their 7th straight victory, WHS enters with a fine 19-10 overall record, and a 2-2 mark in District 1B play.
Friday, February 13th – It’s winner take all when Saline travels to Summerfield where both girls teams enter with a 2-0 district mark. The contest is important for the Bobcat boys (19-11, 1-1) as well as SHS, looks to protect its #4 ranking in Class C and give Saline home games in the playoffs leading up to the state tournament.
QHS hopes to ride the coattails of Thursday wins to victory on Firday at Castor which would secure the outright district title for both the girls and boys teams. Meanwhile, JHHS will make the short trip to Cedar Creek to keep the momentum going of late season winning streaks.
Saturday, February 14th – Jonesboro-Hodge hopes the holiday date shows much love to their late season playoff pushes. With a victory on Friday and another against Haynesville on Valentine’s Day, the Tigers (6-20, 2-2), who have won a season-best 3 of their last 4, have an outside shot at sneaking into the 28-team Division IV bracket after seemingly being helplessly out of contention just a week ago. If the Lady Tigers win their games on Wednesday and Friday, then JHHS will be playing to share the District 1-1A title and possibly secure a first round home playoff game.
Area girls and boys basketball teams go a perfect 7-0 in Tuesday tilts
The beginning of the week couldn’t have hardly started any better for the area high school girls and boys basketball teams as combined JHHS, Quitman, Saline and Weston won all 7 games played, with only the Saline boys not being in action.
JHHS 51 Glenbrook 8 (girls): For the first time since December 2023, the Lady Tigers held an opponent under 10 points to hold steady to their 17th rating, heading into the busy week ahead. With Samone Mallard, Nesha Johnson and Jalenya Jackson scoring 14, 13 and 12 points respectively JHHS won their 2nd in the last 3 and 4th of the last 6th to keep hopes of a District 1-1A title alive.
Quitman 53 Choudrant 50 (girls): In the battle between 7th and 8th-rated teams in Class B, the Lady Wolverines used the clutch free-throw shooting of Anna Claire Leach down the stretch to help lift QHS from a 43-42 deficit. Leach, who entered the contest averaging 15.2 points per game, doubled her season average by posting a season-tying best 30 points in the game that pitted the District 2B champion and prospective 1B title winner. Allie Robertso, who also scored a key late basket, chipped in with 7 points, while Hallie Kate Pullig scored 5, and both Kinsley Ponder and Emma Walker finished with four points each. Taylor Borland also tallied 3 points to round out the scoring.
Weston 63 Dodson 30 (girls): The late-season surge continued for the Lady Wolves, who scored over 50 points in their season best 6th straight game to claim their 2nd victory in 7 days over the neighboring parish foe. Rachel Bandy powered the offensive attack with a season second best total of 19 points with Kate Keiffer chipping in with 14 points. Carlynn Waters added 9, Ada Claire Tidwell scored 7 and both Carly Jo Griffin and Gracie Gray finished with 5 points each. Teegan Hall and Mallory Malone also scored a basket each.
Saline 42 Stanley 36 (girls): A 20-9 first-half advantage held up as Saline kept their #8 rating in Class C in place with the road victory. Morgan Cheatwood led the Lady Bobcats in scoring with 17 points, with Kasidy Sims also reaching “double-digits” in scoring with 12. Rayaunnah Pearson scored 6, Ally Kate Hillman finished with 4 points, Lanee Cheatwood hit a basket, and Tyla Malone added a free throw for Saline, who has now posted a season-best four-game winning streak.
JHHS 61 Glenbrook 58 (boys): The youthful Tigers seem to have started to traverse the learning curve young teams always go through as JHHS won their second district 1-1A contest in a row and claimed victory for the third time in the last four games. It was a decisive 50-30 second-half advantage fueled by a season-best 32-point third-quarter effort that lifted the Tigers, who trailed 29-21 at the half. King Campbell led JHHS in scoring with 17 points, with JaQuan Qualls and Channing Gray Jr. also both reaching “double-digits” with 14 and 10 points, respectively. Dylan Hayes added 9, and both Lon’Trevious Burns and Kodan Atkins finished with 4 points each.
Quitman 67 Choudrant 53 (boys): The Wolverines ran their winning streak to 17 straight, the best in Michael Black’s six-year tenure and longest since Quitman won 30 in a row in the 2006-07 season. It was an 18-6 first-quarter advantage that spelled the difference as Taden Thomas scored 23 to lead the charge. Shane Reed and Abel Leach chipped in with 12 and 11 points apiece, while the newest member of the 1000 career point club, Brayden Martin, netted nine. Brayden Smith, Kaleb Maxwell, and Asher Schultz all scored four points each.
Weston 66 Dodson 26 (boys): The Wolves equaled their win total from a season ago with their fourth overall and second victory over the Winn Parish squad in the last seven days. Gunner Younse scored 12 points to lead a season best 14 players who tallied points.Cole Otwell, Ty Henderson and Malachi Harris all posted 7 points each while Dawson Griffin scored a season high 6 points. Aiden Faulkner finished with 5 and both Jacolby Lowe and A.J. Woodard had four points each, the latter reaching a new season high in scoring. Brody Tidwell, Hunter Donaldson and Colton Otwell tallied 3 points each, Leyton Younse and Abram Toms hit a basket each and Cason Conn sank a free throw.
The improbable dreams of an undefeated season for both the Quitman and Weston baseball teams went by the wayside in the season openers against schools from higher classifications, as Weston fell to Division II Brusly 12-0 and Quitman fell to Division III Calvary Baptist 9-2.
Brusly 12 Weston 0: The defending Division II runner-up among “non-select” schools scored at least one run in every inning on the way to proving to be every bit as strong this season. South Arkansas College commit, Drew Browning, gained the only Wolves hit of the contest with a fourth-inning single.
Calvary Baptist 9 Quitman 2: In the battle between state tournament quarterfinalists from a year ago in their respective divisions, an early six-run deficit proved to be too much for the Wolverines to overcome. Trailing 6-0, QHS scored twice in the bottom of the third inning when Kace West doubled home Conner Moak, who had reached on a walk, and Hudson Pullig, who got hit by a pitch, scored on a Tucker Newton grounder that was misplayed.
UP NEXT: Quitman will play St. Mary’s of Natchitoches on Friday, and both Ebard and Zwolle on Saturday at the Many Invitational. Meanwhile, Weston will play three games in three days, all on the road, as they will face Mangham on Thursday, Ouachita Parish on Friday, and Downsville Charter on Saturday. Jonesboro-Hodge will open its 2026 season on Thursday with a District 1-1A contest at Plain Dealing.
Quitman Jamboree Slated for Saturday
Quitman High School will host a three-team season-opening Jamboree on Saturday, February 14th at the Lady Wolverines home field on the QHS campus.
The action will start at 4:00 pm when Quitman will host Choudrant, followed by Choudrant and D’Arbonne Woods playing at 5:00 pm and the Lady Wolverines taking on D’Arbonne Woods in the finale, slated to begin at 6:00 pm. Entry fee will be $6.00 per person with concessions available.
The Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office recently conducted parish-wide training for the deployment and use of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) equipped with Narcan and other essential medical response equipment for first responders across Jackson Parish.
This training and equipment distribution was made possible through Louisiana’s Opioid Abatement Settlement funds and conducted through a cooperative effort involving the Jackson Parish Police Jury, Jackson Parish Ambulance Service, and municipal law enforcement agencies within the parish, including the Jonesboro Police Department, the Hodge Police Department, and the North Hodge Police Department. Participating agencies completed the training and received AEDs as part of this coordinated response.
While AEDs are most associated with cardiac emergencies, they also play a critical role in opioid overdose response. Overdoses, whether accidental or intentional, can lead to respiratory failure and cardiac complications. Having AEDs, Narcan, and trained first responders on scene improves the ability to provide life-saving care while EMS is en route.
The Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office has previously trained deputies, School Resource Officers, and other personnel in Narcan administration, with that training already proving effective during multiple overdose responses within the parish.
The Sheriff’s Office continues to expand opioid response and medical intervention training across all operational divisions. With this added equipment and joint training effort, Deputies, Investigators, SROs, and municipal officers who may arrive first on scene are now equipped and prepared to provide effective, life-saving care. As a result, every responding unit within the Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office, including School Resource Officers, will always have kits available.
“We appreciate the cooperation of the Jackson Parish Police Jury, Jackson Parish Ambulance Service, Jonesboro Police Department, Hodge Police Department, and North Hodge Police Department in responsibly using opioid settlement funds to protect lives and serve the people of Jackson Parish.” – Jackson Parish Sheriff Brent Barnett
One Parish. One Team. One Mission.
JPSO Deputies, Investigators, SROs, and municipal officers are now equipped with effective, life-saving care
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 Katie Delaney, 5th Grade Teacher at Weston High School as “Staff Standout.”
With 15 years in education, including 9 years at Jonesboro Elementary and 6 years at Weston, Katie brings heart and high expectations to her classroom.
She treasures watching students grow throughout the year, gain confidence, and move on prepared for the next grade. A recent accomplishment that stands out to Mrs. Delaney was the strong LEAP growth achieved by her students last year—an accomplishment that truly reflected their hard work in the classroom.
She credits her parents, both educators, as a major influence in her decision to become a teacher and for shaping her passion for education. If she weren’t in education, Katie would be a stay-at-home mom or an interior designer. She enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, decorating, and shopping.
Please join the Jackson Parish School District in celebrating Katie Delaney and the lasting impact she continues to make on students across Jackson Parish Schools!
Landon Boston (center) signs to play football with Ottawa University as Garica Boston (l), Felicia Boston (r), and JHHS Athletic Director Terrance Blankenship (in back) look on
On February 6, 2026, Jonesboro-Hodge High School (JHHS) senior Landon Boston made it official that he will continue his football playing career at Ottawa University.
The signing was witnessed by mother Garica Boston, grandmother Felicia Boston, JHHS Athletic Director and Head Football Coach Terrance Blankenship, family, teammates, and friends in a signing ceremony that took place in the JHHS Library.
Located in Ottawa, Kansas, the private Baptist University competes in intercollegiate varsity athletics as part of the NAIA and Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference.
The 5’10”, 195-pound RB/DB goes to Ottawa after being an integral part of the Tigers’ quarterfinal run in the Division IV playoffs. After recovering from a hamstring injury early in the year that sidelined him for 5 games, Boston returned to compile 675 yards rushing and 5 touchdowns on just 75 carries.
While also being a tremendous locker room leader, Boston maintained a 3.4 GPA, exhibiting what it means to be a complete student athlete.
