A normal, peaceful fall day in Jonesboro was abruptly disrupted on Monday, November 9th, when a gas line ruptured, causing evacuations and service interruptions for residents and businesses that continued through Tuesday.

According to reports, around 11:00 am on Monday, a utility company working in Jonesboro struck a main gas line at the corner of Cooper Avenue and First Street, creating a potential safety hazard as gas was spewing from the ruptured line.

The Town of Jonesboro Police Department (JPD), Public Works, and the Jonesboro Fire Department, along with representatives from Atmos Entergy, responded quickly, and immediate action resulted in Jonesboro-Hodge High School and those in the immediate area being evacuated and the JPD issuing a Public Safety Advisory requesting all citizens to stay clear of the area around Cooper Street, First and Second Avenue.

A barricade was put in place around the affected area while emergency crews worked to contain the leak and repair the line. Later that evening, the JPD announced it was safe for residents to return home. Repair work continued through the night and into the next day, leaving many without gas service and prompting Jonesboro Mayor James “Spike” Harris to issue the following statement at 11:00 am on Tuesday.

“I understand the concerns and frustrations surrounding the current natural gas outage affecting much of our town. I have personally spoken with Atmos Energy personnel working on the ground, and I want to assure our residents that crews are actively working to resolve the situation. Once repairs are complete, Atmos Energy must take the necessary steps to ensure the gas lines are safe before restoring service. Technicians will then go door-to-door, including homes and businesses, to safely relight appliances that require natural gas. At this time, there is NO CONFIRMED TIME FRAME for full restoration of service.
I know this disruption is inconvenient, and I sincerely appreciate everyone’s patience and understanding. We will continue communicating with Atmos Energy and providing updates as reliable information becomes available. Thank you for your patience as we work through this together.” – Mayor James “Spike” Harris.

UPDATE! Gas Main Repaired – Service Expected to be Restored on Wednesday

Thanks to Atmos Energy, Jonesboro First Responders, and the Jonesboro Public Works Department working diligently over the past 36 straight hours, Jonesboro Mayor James “Spike” Harris is pleased to announce that as of 11:00 pm on Tuesday, the gas line that had been ruptured on the corner of Cooper Avenue and First Street in Jonesboro has been repaired. Harris added that Atmos Energy representatives will visit households and businesses tomorrow to turn the gas back on at each location.

“I applaud the tremendous work done by Atmos Energy, the Town of Jonesboro Public Works Department, Jonesboro Fire Department and the Jonesboro Police Department for their diligent effort in keeping our residents safe from what could have been a disastrous situation.”

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The Jackson Parish School Board has called a special meeting for 9:00 am on Wednesday, November 11th. The special session will be held solely to conduct a hearing pursuant to Louisiana Revised Statute (La.R.S.) 17:54 and Superintendent Billy Carter’s contract.

A portion of the meeting may be held in executive session according to the provisions of La.R.S.42.17(A) (1), (4), and (12). Moving into an executive session under these provisions generally requires an affirmative vote of a two-thirds majority of the members present during an open meeting. While discussions or investigations can happen behind closed doors, any final binding action or vote must be taken in an open, public meeting.

A definition of the Louisiana Revised Statutes is as follows.

Louisiana Revised Statute (La.R.S.) 17.54 – Governs the officers and superintendents of local public city and parish school boards.

Louisiana Revised Statute (La. R.S.) 42:17(A) – Sets out the specific legal exceptions to Louisiana’s Open Meetings Law, including when a public body may enter a closed “executive session.”

Under Louisiana Revised Statute (La. R.S.) 42:17(1) (part of Louisiana’s Open Meetings Law), – A public body may hold a closed executive session to discuss a person’s character, professional competence, or physical or mental health.

Louisiana Revised Statute (La. R.S.) 42:17(4) – A public body in Louisiana may hold an executive session (a closed meeting) for investigative proceedings regarding allegations of misconduct.

Louisiana Revised Statute (La. R.S.) 42:12 – Outlines the public policy regarding open meetings under Louisiana’s Open Meetings Law (part of Title 42, Chapter 13 / general public meetings provisions)

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The Town of Jonesboro announces to residents that, in observance of VETERANS DAY, the Public Works Department will be closed on Wednesday, November 11, 2026. Residents whose regular trash pickup day is Wednesday will have their trash picked up on Thursday morning, November 12, 2026, along with Thursday’s regular scheduled trash route. If your trash day is Thursday, it will be picked up on that day as scheduled. The Town of Jonesboro Public Works Department appreciates your patience and understanding as we observe this holiday.

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Jonesboro-Hodge will host Ferriday at Caldwell-Peacock Stadium on the JHHS campus on Friday, November 13th in the first round of the LHSAA Division IV “non-select” school football playoffs. The Tigers, making their 53rd playoff appearance, which is tied for the 10th most in LHSAA history, finished the regular season with a 7-3 record and earned the right to host the contest by virtue of their #13 ranking in the final regular-season LHSAA power poll. Ferriday, out of District 2-2A, enters the game with a 3-7 record and a #20 ranking.

The “second season” contest will be the third time the two schools will have met in the LHSAA postseason play, with Ferriday winning both prior postseason games, a 42-11 victory in 1981 and a 34-6 win in 2023, both first-round playoff games. It also marks the 18th time the two have squared off overall in the series that dates back to 1970, with Ferriday holding a 10-7 all-time advantage. The winner will travel to #4 Mangham for a second round contest.

“We are eager to get postseason play started,” said JHHS head coach Terrance Blankenship, who will be leading JHHS into the playoffs for a school record 14th straight time. “Everyone is back to square one now, and we are excited about our chances.”

JHHS, which finished in third place in District 3-1A, enters the contest averaging 34.4 points per game, which currently ranks 4th all time in school history, while giving up an average of 21 points per contest. Ferriday, the 5th-place finisher in District 2-2A, counters by scoring 23 points per game and giving up 31.3 points per game.

Offensively, the Tigers will be led by quarterback King Campbell and running back Lontrevious “Tre” Burns, both on the verge of eclipsing the 1000 yard mark for the season in passing and rushing, respectively. Campbell finished the regular season with 954 yards through the air by completing 53 of 90 passes, which included 14 touchdowns. Burn has 881 yards on the ground in 104 carries and has scored 19 touchdowns, with 17 rushing touchdowns and two TD pass receptions.

JaQuan Qualls leads a bevy of Tiger receivers who have caught at least 10 passes this season in yards gained, with 13 catches for 315 yards and 3 TDs, while Jamarlon Johnson has the most receptions with 16, which has accounted for 254 yards and a team-leading 5 scores. Burns is only one yard behind at 253 yards on 10 catches, while Tyson Burks and Channing Gray Jr. both have 10 receptions for 146 yards and 2 TD’s and 137 yards and 4 scores, respectively.

On defense, Burns is the leading tackler with 52 stops, including 8 tackles for a loss, 5 sacks, one safety to his credit, one interception, and one forced fumble. Reginald Hemphill is close behind with 46 stops, 2 sacks, and a team-leading 11 tackles for a loss and 3 fumble recoveries. Tyson Burks leads the team with 5 interceptions. Kodan Atkins has 35 tackles, 4 tackles for a loss, and a fumble recovery; Dylan Hayes has 32 tackles, 2 sacks, 7 tackles for a loss, 2 fumble recoveries, and a team-leading 2 defensive touchdowns, while Cameron Jackson has 29 stops, 10 tackles for a loss, one fumble recovery, and one defensive touchdown.

Playoff game to be broadcast on 102.3 FM radio

While the hopes are that Tiger Nation will turn out in the largest numbers of the year to show support, if you can’t attend the game, you can listen to the contest by tuning in to Roux102 at 102.3 FM or livestream the contest by downloading the Roux102 App or HudlFan App. The pre-game show, presented by Ben Ledbetter and Clay Williams, begins at 6:30 pm. As an added feature, the weekly Coaches Show will air, where JHHS head coach Terrance Blankenship will talk about the first-round matchup and the Tigers’ fortunes this season with Ric Godley of Roux102.

The Jackson Parish Police Jury regrets to inform you that the annual Veterans Day Brunch Celebration that was scheduled for November 11th has now been canceled due to the majority of the Town of Jonesboro currently being without gas service and no set date being set for when service will be restored.

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Rolling Hills Ministries celebrated the opening of its Jonesboro, LA location on November 5th with a traditional ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by Rolling Hills officials, local dignitaries, Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce representatives, and friends and family of local employees.

The newest edition of the non-profit organization, located at 735 Pershing Hwy. in Jonesboro, was founded in 2003 by David and Jerri Abernathy. Headquartered in Ruston, Louisiana, the local thrift store where Tommy Smith is manager is one of seven thrift stores under the Rolling Hills umbrella operating in North Louisiana, with locations in Ruston, Arcadia, Monroe, West Monroe, Natchitoches, and Pineville.

Rolling Hills Core Ministries operates through five main areas of focus.

• Compassionate Services: Providing physical aid, community resources, and adult education—such as weekly HiSET (GED) diploma preparation classes held in Ruston, Arcadia, Monroe, and Bossier City.
• Disaster Relief: Acting as a designated disaster relief organization in North Louisiana through the North American Mission Board (NAMB) to disburse emergency funds and physical supplies during crises.
• Thrift Stores & Bookstores: Operating multiple retail locations across North Louisiana (including Ruston, Arcadia, Bossier City, Monroe, Pineville, West Monroe, Natchitoches, and Jonesboro). Sales from these community-donated items help fund the ministry’s core programs.
• Recreational Ministry: Coordinating seasonal volunteer programs in Louisiana state parks (including Lake Claiborne, Jimmy Davis, Lake Bisteneau, and Lake D’Arbonne) from April 1st through October 31st, offering worship services, day camps, and family evening programs.
• International Missions: Extending outreach and support projects globally.

Hours of operation are:
Monday – Friday: 8:30 am – 5:30 pm
Saturday: 8:30 am – 3:00 pm

Donations are accepted during regular business hours.

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The 2026 LHSAA prep basketball regular season began on Tuesday, November 10th, for schools in Class B and C, with Quitman opening by traveling to Saline and Weston hosting Castor in varsity girls’ and boys’ action, with the two Jackson Parish schools coming away winning both girls’ and boys’ games.

In a final tune-up to the season, the two local schools met on November 5th at the Weston Jamboree in varsity girls’ and boys’ action. Quitman swept the two contests, with the Lady Wolverines winning 34-27 and the Quitman boys coming out on top 42-24 in games played to what amounted to two quarters of a normal game and not counted in regular-season standings.

Weston Jamboree

Quitman 34, Weston 27 (girls): Anna Leach scored 14, and Hallie Kate Pullig added 10 to lead the Lady Wolverines to a hard-fought Weston Jamboree victory, with the lead changing four times in the first half before QHS opened up a 12-point lead Weston never recovered from despite a late rally. Quitman also got scoring from Taylor Borland, who added 7 points, with Kalisia Hall making a basket and Brooklyn Brown sinking a free throw. Kate Keiffer led Weston with 10 points, and Ada-Claire Tidwell chipped in with 7. Rachel Bandy, Gracie Gray, Carlie Jo Griffin, and Teegan Hall each added two points.

Quitman 42, Weston 24 (boys): The Wolverines opened their 2026 Class season with a strong scoring effort, leading from start to finish. Taden Thomas and Kaleb Maxwell led the Wolverines with 13 and 12 points, respectively, while Shane Reed added 5 and Jack Thomas scored 4. Malachi Harris led Weston with 11 points, while David Gandy, Ashad Harris, and Brody Tidwell each tallied three points. Eli Henderson and Ty Henderson both added a basket.

Tuesday Tilts

Quitman 50 Saline 41 (girls): Trailing 40-39, Quitman went on an 11-2 run to close out the game in the season opener for both teams. Hallie Kate Pullig paced the Lady Wolverine attack with a “double-double” of 14 points and 12 rebounds, both team highs, and Anna Claire Leach also reached double figures in points with 12. Kinsley Ponder added 8, including 4 during the winning rally, while Allie Robertson chipped in with 6. Emma Walker also played a big role in the late-game surge by scoring all 4 of her points, which was the same number of points scored by Kalisia Hall. London Burks added a basket as well.

Weston 54, Castor 45 (girls): Kate Keiffer made 11 of 16 free throws en route to a team-leading 17 points, and Carly Jo Griffin sank a pair of 3-pointers in the first quarter, leading to 15 points to pace Weston to the season-opening victory. Teegan Hall also reached double figures with 10 points, and both Ada Claire Tidwell and Gracie Gray chipped in with 5 points each. Weston led 25-19 at the half, but Castor closed the gap to 40-37 after three, only for Weston to win the final quarter 14-8 and pull away.

Quitman 83, Saline 61 (boys): Kaleb Maxwell scored a career-high 23 points, and Taden Thomas turned in a “double-double” with 13 points and 11 rebounds as Quitman raced to a 19-7 first-quarter lead, then salted the victory away with a game-high 28 in the final frame. Braden Martin added 20 on pinpoint 10-for-14 shooting, and Hayden Seymore chipped in with 12, giving Quitman four players in double figures. Shane Reed added 8, Jack Thomas finished with 5, and Caiden Jackson added a basket.

Weston 66, Castor 47 (boys): After spotting Castor a 15-13 first-quarter lead, the Wolves blew it open by taking a 21-4 advantage in the second quarter. A family effort led the way, with Eli and Ty Henderson scoring 12 and 10 points, respectively, followed closely by 9 points each from Ashad Harris and Malach Harris, who also led Weston with 12 rebounds. Abram Toms scored 7, Brody Tidwell had 6, and Gunner Younse finished with 5. Colten Otwell tallied three, and Bradyn Turner made a basket to round out the scoring, with 10 players contributing points.

Quitman 20 Saline 7 (JV Boys): Cadien Jackson and Hayden Seymore, who led Quitman with 6 and 5 points, respectively, sank three-pointers to open the contest, and Lucas Leach, who finished with 4 points, added a basket to put Quitman up 8-0, and the junior varsity Wolverines never looked back in the season-opening victory. Mason Thomas tallied three, and Jayden Burns added a basket to round out the scoring for Quitman.

Upcoming Games

Both Quitman and Weston will take part in their first tournament of the year, with the Quitman girls and boys playing two games each at the Chris Edminston Memorial Tourney at Choudrant High School on November 12-14 and the Weston girls and boys playing a game on Friday, November 13th in the Calvin Tournament.

Choudrant Tourney Schedule

Calvin Tourney Schedule

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The 2nd Annual “Miss Christmas in the Pines” Pageant, sponsored by the Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce (JPCC), took place Saturday, November 7, at the J-HHS Auditorium in Jonesboro. A total of 10 division winners were crowned, culminating in Anna Claire Leach of Quitman, LA, being named the 2026 Miss Christmas in the Pines.

The JPCC thanks parents, families, local businesses, and community supporters for their donations, time, and support of the pageant and our youth. Please set your calendars for Saturday, November 28th for the Annual Christmas Parade!

2026 Miss Christmas In The Pines Division Winners

Miss Infant Miss: Kody Kayt West
Miss Baby Miss: Emmabeth Alease Goodwin
Miss Toddler Miss: Mauri Jade Hall
Miss Tiny Miss: Emery Rose Jones
Miss Little Miss: Saylor Graham
Miss Deb Miss: Maylee Brooks Gresham
Miss Petite Miss: Skylynne Delane Hurst
Miss Junior Miss: Shelby Lynn Johns
Miss Teen Miss: Addison Faber
Miss Christmas in the Pines: Anna Claire Leach

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Student / Athlete of the Week Award sponsor, Jackson Parish Hospital, is pleased to announce the honorees for the week of November 1-7. Selected by faculty and staff at Jonesboro-Hodge (JHHS), Quitman (QHS), and Weston (WHS) High Schools, as well as Cornerstone Christian Academy (CCA), the honorees are chosen for providing the best example of balancing academic achievement and athletic accomplishment. Each award winner receives a commemorative T-shirt from Jackson Parish Hospital and is featured in the Jackson Parish Journal and other social media outlets.

Award Overview

Sponsor: Jackson Parish Hospital

Participating Schools: Jonesboro-Hodge High School, Quitman High School, Weston High School, and Cornerstone Christian Academy

Selection Criteria: Faculty and staff at each institution select the recipient based on who best exemplifies balancing academic achievement and athletic accomplishment.

Recognition: Weekly recipients are featured in the Jackson Parish Journal and on social media. They also receive a commemorative T-shirt from Jackson Parish Hospital.

Student/Athletes of the Week
November 1-7

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The Quitman High School girls and boys cross country teams punched their ticket to the LHSAA state meet by finishing second and third, respectively, in the Division 5 Region 1 competition held at the Jackson Parish Recreation Department Sports Complex on November 4th.

The Lady Wolverines finished behind only Class A St. Frederick in the 5000-meter race and, more importantly, qualified all five runners for the state meet, which will be held November 17 at Northwestern State University in Natchitoches.

The Quitman boys’ team finished third overall in the regional, which saw eight schools compete, behind Providence Classical Academy and Choudrant. Four of five runners for QHS earned qualification to the state meet by finishing in the top 25.

LHSAA Division V State Meet Qualifiers

QHS Girls
Kaleigh King – 7th place
Audrina Martin – 13th place
Addi Faber – 14th place
Anna Pardue – 15th place
Lindsey Woods – 21st place

QHS Boys
Luke Sims 12th
Carson Savana 19th
Josiah Ramsey 21st

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The second annual Chatham Festival of Arts will take place from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm on Saturday, November 14th at the Andiron Venue, located at 6427 Hwy 34 in Chatham. Plan to attend and enjoy a wide range of events and activities, including art classes, art contests, coloring contests, live music, an artisan vendor market, food vendors, kids’ crafts, kids’ activities, and more!

Schedule
9:00 am- Invocation and National Anthem
9:00 am- Artisan Vendor Booths
9:30 am – 5:00 pm- Live Music
11:00 am- Food Trucks
12:30 pm- Art Contest and Coloring Contest Winners

Music Lineup
9:30 AM – Elise Clare Causey
10:30 AM – Nathan Shell
11:30 – Matthew Looney
1:00 – Shane Longoria and The 171
2:00 – Keegan Goodwin
3:00 – Reigh Clare
4:00 – Jaxon Slade

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Designed to keep you connected and informed about the latest news, important dates, and exciting happenings involving Jackson Parish School District schools and organizations, the monthly “Mission Memo” for November is presented.

See below for information regarding CTE classes, child welfare and attendance, student service center, food and nutrition, and federal programs, as well as events scheduled at Jonesboro-Hodge Elementary, Jonesboro-Hodge High School, Quitman High School, and Weston High School.

Ladies are invited to a special weekend of worship, encouragement, fellowship, and growing deeper in faith on November 13-14 as the 2026 THRIVE Women’s Conference will take place. The always uplifting annual event is being hosted this year by Jonesboro First Assembly of God, located at 1490 South Hudson Avenue in Jonesboro, LA.

Special guest speaker Erica White will deliver the inspirational message for women of all ages, themed “In the Seasons of Life,” complete with a visual presentation, and Katie Ashcraft will lead praise and worship.

Conference Schedule of Events

Friday, November 13
5:30 pm – Doors Open
6:30 pm – Evening Service

Saturday, November 14
8:00 am – Light Breakfast and Coffee
10:00 am – Morning Service
12:00 pm – Lunch
2:00 pm – Afternoon Service

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Forest Haven Nursing Home and Rehabilitation Center, located at 175 Thrasher Avenue in Jonesboro, has a well-earned reputation for providing tremendous care for its residents, including a plethora of enjoyable, educational, and inspirational activities planned each month.

November is no exception. Lots of events and activities are planned for residents, families, and staff! Take a look at the activity schedule shown below and make sure to make plans to join for a few holiday memories!

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If the results of the Quitman baseball and Weston softball junior high teams during the 2026 “Fall Ball” seasons are any type of precursor for what the future brings for both schools, the light certainly shines brightly for the two Jackson Parish schools.

The QJH baseball team, actually both baseball teams, and the WJH softball team finished the season with undefeated records, with the QJH “Blue” team posting a 9-0 record and the “Gold” team going 8-0, while the WJH softball team finished the season with an 11-0-1 record, the only blemish being a last-game tie. Weston Junior High baseball finished the year at 4-4, while the Quitman softball team had an 8-10-1 record, giving the five Jackson Parish teams a tremendous combined 40-14-1 record

Baseball

Quitman “Blue” – The Junior High Wolverines were simply dominating over the nine-game schedule, scoring in double figures in the first six games and shutting out their opponent in five games, including two of the final three, to end the season with a 97-18 scoring advantage. As a team, QJH batted a robust .494, with 6 players hitting over .500 for the year.

QJH “Blue” Baseball Individual Offensive Statistics
(Bold Indicates Team Leader)

Name	Average	Hits	2B	3B	HR	RBI	Runs
Grayson Kinman	.714	5	1	0	0	2	5
Aiden Reed	.600	12	0	2	1	9	9
Jaxon Culpepper	.600	12	4	2	2	8	11
Luke Davis	.533	8	1	1	1	11	11
Jake Moak	.529	7	2	0	0	3	7
Shepard Norred	.500	8	2	1	1	4	7
Maddox Graham	.462	6	1	0	0	3	11
Savage Thatcher	.438	7	0	0	0	7	11
Ryder Pardue	.417	5	0	0	0	2	6
Jase Reed	.400	4	0	0	0	2	5
Jackson Ables	.400	6	4	0	0	7	6
Asher Norred	.222	2	0	0	0	4	8
TEAM	.494	84	15	6	5	62	97

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Quitman “Gold: Made up of primarily 6th and 7th graders, the “Gold” team had an equally impressive season, winning all 8 of their games and averaging 9.75 runs per contest. As a team, the “Gold” hit .466 for the year, with 7 players batting .500 or better.

QJH “Gold” Baseball Individual Offensive Statistics
(Bold Indicates Team Leader)

Name	Average	Hits	2B	3B	HR	RBI	Runs
Carter Kelley	.600	3	1	0	0	3	6
Clay Burton	.571	4	1	0	0	5	3
Bentley Ponder	.563	9	1	1	3	8	14
Asher Cooper	.545	6	1	0	0	2	5
Kutter Blalock	.538	7	2	1	0	8	11
Mason Tolar	.500	5	1	1	0	7	6
Koplen Taylor	.500	6	2	0	0	1	12
Sutton Vail	.417	5	1	1	0	5	4
Andrew Seymore	.400	6	1	0	0	7	8
Drew Mobley	.250	2	1	0	0	1	4
Issac Sessions	.222	2	0	0	0	2	5
TEAM	.466	55	12	4	3	49	78

Weston Junior High – The Wolves played four teams during the “Fall Ball” season, winning two of three against Simsboro, beating Downsville, splitting a pair against Choudrant, and dropping both games to the Quitman “Blue” team to finish the season at .500 with a 4-4 record. For the season, Weston averaged scoring 4 runs per game.

Weston Baseball Individual Offensive Statistics
(Bold Indicates Team Leader)

Name	Average	Hits	2B	3B	HR	RBI	Runs
Carter Powell	.600	6	2	1	0	4	5
Remi Davis	.300	3	0	0	0	1	4
Tate Hall	.300	2	0	0	0	1	3
Grant Griffin	.250	3	1	1	0	4	5
Haiden Jones	.214	2	0	0	0	2	0
Brett Rasbury	.182	2	0	1	0	3	3
Ashton Paggett	.167	1	0	0	0	3	1
Eli Jones	.143	2	0	0	0	2	3
James	.143	0	0	0	0	0	1
Kaine Stassen	.000	0	0	0	0	1	1
Bradley Kenney	.000	0	0	0	0	1	2
Beaux Gandy	.000	0	0	0	0	0	2
Parker Hightower	.000	0	0	0	0	2	1
Cameron Pardue	.000	0	0	0	0	1	1
TEAM	.179	21	3	3	0	25	32

Softball

Weston Junior High – The Lady Wolves were an offensive juggernaut, compiling a .500 team average that included 8 of the 15 players on the roster hitting .500 or better. Adding to the incredible statistics that the team put up was a Jackson Parish best: 122 runs scored for a 10 runs-per-game average, while the deep pitching corps gave up only 15 earned runs all season and compiled a 1.89 ERA. Added to the success Weston had during the “Fall Ball” season was the fact that many of the same players helped Weston compile a perfect 20-0 record during the junior high basketball season, proving the all-around talent abounds at the school.

Weston Softball Individual Offensive Statistics
(Bold Indicates Team Leader)

Name	Average	Hits	2B	3B	HR	RBI	Runs
Kylee-Ayn Allen	.737	14	0	0	0	11	9
Kate Keiffer	.692	9	1	4	1	10	7
Ryan Kate Wyatt	.632	12	4	3	0	13	10
Cadie Conn	.556	15	5	4	1	25	19
Hannah Aldy	.526	10	1	0	0	9	16
Miriam Shuler	.500	10	2	1	0	10	10
Carrington Bond	.500	3	0	0	0	2	4
Raylie Hall	.500	2	1	0	0	1	5
Ryleigh Puffer	.429	3	1	0	0	2	6
River Waggoner	.400	2	1	0	0	2	4
Brooklyn Keiffer	.389	7	0	0	0	8	5
Leah Atkins	.368	7	3	0	0	8	15
Kiley Horton	.333	1	0	0	0	3	4
Ashlyn Petre	.286	4	0	0	0	3	4
Autumn Kohler	.273	3	0	0	0	2	6
TEAM	.500	102	19	13	2	109	122

Quitman Junior High – While the Lady Wolverines finished the year below .500, no team in the parish played as many games against schools from higher classifications as did Quitman. Other than the 0-3 record against Weston and the 1-5 mark against Claiborne Christian in both “A” and “B” games, Quitman had an impressive 7-2-1 mark, which included 2-0 marks against Saline and Calvin and a victory over Evangel out of Shreveport, which is a Class 5A team in varsity competition.

Quitman Softball Individual Offensive Statistics
(Bold Indicates Team Leader)

Name	Average	Hits	2B	3B	HR	RBI	Runs
Ryleigh McCormick	.556	10	2	1	0	8	10
Abi Sullivan	.500	7	0	0	0	4	9
Brelaina Hall	.500	13	3	0	0	7	10
Elliot Savage	.455	15	0	4	0	7	11
Karlee Altheimer	.455	5	0	0	0	4	7
Charlea Jones	.382	13	1	0	0	16	7
Ellie Shultz	.357	10	1	0	0	4	12
Emma Gray	.346	9	2	3	0	9	8
Avery Cooper	.300	3	0	0	0	7	1
Isabella Autry	.286	4	2	0	1	5	12
Adleigh Cooper	.250	2	0	0	0	0	4
Mez’Meri Walker	.200	1	0	0	0	0	3
Maddie Spillman	.200	2	0	0	0	2	3
Kaylee Hammons	.182	1	1	0	0	5	6
Charley Linton	.158	3	2	0	0	3	4
Raegan Bell	.118	2	0	0	0	9	6
Aria Dodson	.000	0	0	0	0	3	2
TEAM	.351	101	14	8	1	93	114

Thanks to the diligent work of custodians Michael Cannon, Shirley Keys, Patrice Malone, and Johnel Woodard, the Jackson Parish School District awarded the Cleanest Campus Award for October to Jonesboro-Hodge Elementary School.

“Congratulations to Jonesboro-Hodge Elementary Custodial Staff for being recognized by the district as maintaining the cleanest campus for October. We appreciate you taking pride in your campus and making it presentable for not only your students and staff, but also for the community.” – Jackson Parish School District.

Through the Cleanest Campus Award, each month the custodians of the winning school receive a congratulatory lunch at a location of their choice. The October award sponsor was the Jackson Parish Journal, which treated the winners to lunch at Southern Classic Chicken. If you would like to support this project and sponsor the award for November, contact Ashley Cotten at (318) 259-6611, ext. 6102, or send an email to ashley.cotten@jpsbschools.us

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“Walter’s Insurance Claim”

Thursday, November 2, 1970, was a beautiful day in Florence, Oregon. One reporter wrote, “The sun was shining and there was a gentle breeze.” A crowd of onlookers gathered about a mile south of the Siuslaw River to watch the Oregon State Highway Department’s planned demolition. By the time Walter Umenhofer arrived, the crowd had grown so large that he had to park his year-old car about a quarter of a mile down the highway from the demolition site. Walter and the other onlookers, along with a host of reporters watched for two hours as the highway department’s six-man crew led by George Thornton prepared for the explosion.

Walter and the spectators took turns taking photographs in front of the object that would soon cease to exist. Some onlookers tried to convince the workers to wait until the following Monday to set off the dynamite so more people could take one last look, but George refused. His team had done too much work to turn back. George was unsure how much dynamite he needed so he overcompensated.

He explained, “I wanted to make sure we did the job the first time because I wouldn’t want to go back in there after it had been partially blown up.”

Rather than placing the dynamite into the object, George and his team dug holes underneath it to place the explosives. When George’s men brought out the explosives, a green-helmeted sheriff’s deputy moved people back to what he thought was a safe distance. Then, George and his team carefully placed twenty 50-pound cases of dynamite. Many of the onlookers watched through binoculars and telescopic camera lenses as George gave the signal to push the plunger.

BOOOM!!! Within milliseconds of the explosion, everyone present realized that they were in danger. George and his team had used too much dynamite and the placement of the dynamite under the object sent sand and chunks of debris in every direction. A column of sand and fragments reached approximately 100 feet into the sky. Some newspapers reported the column reached “hundreds of feet into the sky.” The onlookers screamed, ran, and ducked for cover as the large chunks, some of which weighed up to a ton, flew over them.

The blast was so powerful that it left a crater five feet deep and 50 feet across. Somehow, none of the onlookers were injured though they were all covered with sand and rubble. After the shock wore off, the onlookers began to make their way back to their vehicles. As Walter walked the quarter mile back to his year-old car, he saw that a crowd had gathered around it. Walter’s heart sank when he saw that a three-foot chunk of debris had struck the roof of his car with such force that it had crushed it flat to the top of the seats and had broken all the windows in the car.

He told a reporter, “My insurance company’s never going to believe this.”

With the huge number of photos and videos from the explosion as evidence, the Oregon State Highway Division’s insurance company had no choice and paid Walter for his car. For the rest of his life, Walter Umenhofer had a whale of tale that I would bet my meager life savings that only he, in the whole history of mankind, can claim.

The object that destroyed Walter’s car in the explosion was part of a dead, beached sperm whale.

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Welcome to New Hallowsthanksmas

Welcome to the holiday season officially known as New Hallowsthanksmas!

I am not certain how official it is. I believe I named it sometime in the 1980s, and, as far as I know, I remain the only person using the designation. Still, every tradition has to begin somewhere. Usually, in my family, it begins with somebody saying, “Are you going to eat that?”

New Hallowsthanksmas stretches from Halloween through New Year’s Day. Calorie counting is suspended. Sound nutritional advice disappears beneath a layer of cream cheese. Family members suddenly rediscover the road to your house, especially if you have a guest bedroom and dependable Wi-Fi.

It is a wonderful opportunity to rediscover the people we love. Occasionally, it also reminds us why we usually love a few of them from a distance.

Somewhere along the way, however, we turned celebration into a competitive sport.

How many dishes are necessary for Thanksgiving dinner? At what point does a meal become an agricultural exposition? Must we serve sweet potatoes in three different forms? Apparently, a sweet potato cannot enter the kingdom of Thanksgiving unless it has been baptized in butter and covered with marshmallows.

Then comes Christmas. How tall should the stack of presents be? Should we still be able to see the tree? How many parties constitute a successful season? And who decided every organization we have ever joined needs to hold its Christmas gathering during the same eleven days?

By January, we are exhausted, overdrawn, and eating leftover cheese ball because nobody has the strength to find a vegetable.

Someone asks, “How were your holidays?”

“We survived.”

That ought to tell us something.

Survival is a reasonable goal for a shipwreck. Surely we can hope for more from the celebration of our Savior’s birth.

Perhaps this year we could begin with a different question: What would help us receive the gifts God is actually giving?

Thanksgiving invites gratitude. Gratitude requires enough attention to notice what we already have. That is difficult when we are busy making lists of everything we still need to buy.

Christmas announces that God has come near. Yet we can become so occupied preparing for Christmas that we have little time to pray, worship, or notice the person beside us.

The first Christmas ought to give us permission to simplify. God entered the world in the vulnerability of a child laid in a manger. We keep acting as though the occasion requires matching pajamas, six coordinated wreaths, and a dining room that qualifies for a magazine cover.

There is nothing wrong with decorations, presents, or a good casserole. I am a Methodist minister. I would never recklessly endanger the casserole.

But we ought to ask whether our celebrations leave room for the love Jesus teaches us to practice.

Could we prepare one fewer dish and spend a little longer at the table? Buy one fewer gift and help a neighbor keep the lights on? Decline an invitation and visit someone whose calendar is painfully empty?

Could we listen to a relative without preparing our rebuttal? Offer an apology before passing the rolls? Remember that the people in our homes need kindness more than they need a flawless centerpiece?

Make a little room now. Leave an evening open. Spend within your means. Worship with your church. Welcome someone who might otherwise be alone.

When New Year’s Day arrives, may we have something better to say than “We survived.”

May we be able to say, “We gave thanks. We made room for Jesus. We loved the people he placed before us.”

And if there are only two kinds of pie, I believe the family will recover.

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To publish Public/Legal Notices, Business Services, Job Opportunities, Items for Sale, and Wanted-to-Buy items, email jpjjacksonla@gmail.com jpjjacksonla@gmail.com  or call 318-480-1206. Possible costs are dependent on the content.

SHERIFF’S SALE

PARISH OF JACKSON
STATE OF LOUISIANA

NEWREZ, LLC, ET AL
#38199
STEVEN J. MORRIS, STEVE MORRIS, SUSAN MORRIS

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 JACKSON PARISH SHERIFF’S OFFICE, Jonesboro, Louisiana, on Wednesday, the 16TH day of DECEMBER, 2026, between the hours governing judicial sales, the following property to wit:

LOT 38 OF GLENDALE ADDITION TO THE TOWN OF JONESBORO, LOUISIANA, AS PER THE PLAT OF SAME ON FILE AND OF RECORD IN THE OFFICE OF THE JACKSON PARISH CLERK OF COURT TOGETHER WITH ALL IMPROVEMENTS THEREON, APPURTENANCES THEREUNTO BELONGING AND COMPONENT PARTS (PROPERTY).

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 benefit of appraisal.

BRENT BARNETT, SHERIFF
EX-OFFICIO, AUCTIONEER

SHERIFF’S SALE

PARISH OF JACKSON
STATE OF LOUISIANA

GITSIT SOLUTIONS, LLC
#38213
CLARENCE RAY JACKSON

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 JACKSON PARISH SHERIFF’S OFFICE, Jonesboro, Louisiana, on Wednesday, the 23 day of December, 2026, between the hours governing judicial sales, the following property, to wit:

BEGINNING AT THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF THE NW 1/4 OF NE 1/4 OF SECTION 19, T15N, RANGE 3 WEST, AND RUN SOUTH 90 FEET, THENCE EAST 157-1/2 FEET, THENCE NORTH 90 FEET, THENCE WEST 157-1/2 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING, TOGETHER WITH ALL OF THE IMPROVEMENTS THEREON AND APPURTENANCES THEREUNTO BELONGING, JACKSON PARISH, LOUISIANA, AS MORE FULLY SHOWN ON SURVEY OF JAMES WOOTEN DATED OCTOBER 12, 2007 (“PROPERTY”)

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 benefit of appraisal.

BRENT BARNETT, SHERIFF
EX-OFFICIO, AUCTIONEER

CAREER OPPORTUNITY

CAREER OPPORTUNITY

CAREER OPPORTUNITY

Benoit Ford in Jonesboro has openings for an Oil/Lube Tech who will also serve as a direct apprentice to certify for a service technician position. Pay plan depends on experience. Benefits are included. To schedule an interview, call (318) 259-9881 and ask for Mike Funderburk.

CAREER OPPORTUNITY

PART-TIME JOB OPPORTUNITY

BUSINESS SERVICES

BUSINESS SERVICES

BUSINESS SERVICES

BUSINESS SERVICES

BUSINESS SERVICES

BUSINESS SERVICES

ESTATE SALE

An Estate Sale will take place on Friday, November 13th at 136 Sand Hill Road in Jonesboro, LA. This is not a garage sale. To learn more call (251) 401-9030.

Gloria Nell Kelly
Oct 12, 1934 — Nov 7, 2026

Gloria Nell Kelly passed away on Saturday, November 7, 2026, at the age of 92. Gloria was a remarkable lady with an extraordinary memory, a spirited personality, and a deep love for her family. She especially cherished her Johns family and shared an inseparable bond with her siblings, Leon and Glynn. Throughout her life, Gloria was a hardworking woman who held various jobs, including working in car sales, as a waitress, and as a cashier at Traina’s Bakery.

Gloria had a special fondness for big Cadillacs, which always held a place in her heart. During her time at Forest Haven Nursing Home, Gloria found joy in the simple pleasures of life, especially coloring and watching her beloved old Western television shows. Her sharp memory, unique personality, and devotion to those she loved will be fondly remembered by her family and all who had the pleasure of knowing her.

Gloria is survived by her daughter, Ella Kaye Dickey, and husband, Jerald; grandson, Keith Dickey (Heather); great-grandchildren, Lorrin Dickey and Karl Dickey (Gabby); niece, Toni Thomas (Bruce); nephew, Jody Traina (Kim); nephew, Robert L. Harvey (Charlotte); and numerous other family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her father, Wesley J. Johns; mother, Ella Ione (Thomas) Johns; siblings Ruby, Adee, Lorene, Eloise, Leon, Tommie and Glynn.

A graveside service was held on Tuesday, November 10, at Gayla Traina Memorial Cemetery, under the direction of Southern-Edmonds Funeral Home. Serving as pallbearers were Bruce Thomas, Corey Thomas, Jerald Dickey, Mickey Chavallier, Keith Dickey, and Jody Traina.

Pauline Malone
August 10, 1957 – November 5, 2026

Ms. Pauline Malone, age 79, went to be with the Lord on November 5, 2026. After a public viewing was held on Tuesday, the Life Celebration Service will be at 11:30 am on Wednesday, November 11, at the Paradise Funeral Home, Jonesboro Chapel.

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A VICTORY FOR JONESBORO: ONE TOWN, ONE PEOPLE, ONE FUTURE

A Statement from Mayor Dr. James E. Harris Jr.

To the wonderful people of Jonesboro: With a heart filled with gratitude, humility, and renewed determination, I want to say two simple but powerful words: Thank you.

Thank you for your trust. Thank you for your prayers. Thank you for believing in the promise of our community and allowing me the extraordinary honor of serving another term as your mayor. First and foremost, I give thanks to Almighty God, whose grace has sustained me through every challenge and whose guidance continues to strengthen my commitment to public service.

To my family, campaign team, volunteers, and every individual who sacrificed their time, offered encouragement, or lifted us in prayer, I am profoundly grateful. Your unwavering support means more than words can express. And to those who supported another candidate, I extend my hand in friendship and unity. Elections may reveal our differences, but they must never define our relationships. I am not the mayor of those who voted for me. I am the mayor of every citizen of Jonesboro. Our future is far too important to allow political differences to divide us.

When we began this journey four years ago, Jonesboro faced significant challenges. Together, we confronted financial difficulties, strengthened essential services, secured critical infrastructure investments, and began restoring confidence in our town’s future. We have made meaningful progress, but our work is far from finished. As we enter this next chapter, my commitment remains steadfast: responsible government, stronger infrastructure, economic opportunity, safer neighborhoods, and a community where every family has reason to believe tomorrow can be better than today. This election was not simply about winning another term. It was about continuing the work of building a stronger Jonesboro for generations yet to come.

Our greatest victories are not measured by election results, but by the lives we improve, the opportunities we create, and the future we build together. Let us move forward—not as political opponents, but as neighbors, friends, and one community united by a common purpose.

May God continue to bless each of you, and may God bless the Town of Jonesboro.

Dr. James E. Harris Jr.
Mayor, Town of Jonesboro, Louisiana

One Town. One People. One Future.

Let’s Keep Moving Jonesboro Forward!

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The Partial Precautionary Water Boil Advisory that was put in place on Friday, November 6, for Jonesboro Water System Customers on Leon Drive from Highway 4 to Holley Drive, including all streets and neighborhoods in between, is still in effect, per a statement issued on Saturday by Town of Jonesboro Mayor James “Spike” Harris.

“Until we hear back from the Department of Health that the samples we sent for testing have been cleared, the precautionary partial water boil advisory will stay in effect,” said Harris. “While we don’t believe there were any contamination problems, we must take the safe route in handling this. We appreciate and thank those affected for their understanding and patience.”

The boil advisory, the second in as many weeks for the affected area, took effect after the Town of Jonesboro Public Works Department discovered and repaired another leak in a water line on Leon Drive.

What To Do During a Boil Advisory

Drinking & Beverages: Use bottled, boiled, or disinfected water for drinking, making ice, coffee, tea, and infant formula.
Cooking & Food Prep: Use boiled or bottled water to wash fruits, vegetables, and to cook food.
Teeth Brushing: Use only bottled or boiled water to brush your teeth.
Pets: Give your pets boiled or bottled water instead of tap water.
Handwashing: Wash your hands with soap and tap water for at least 20 seconds; you can follow with an alcohol-based hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
Bathing & Showers: Be careful not to swallow any water. Showers are generally safe for older children and adults, though sponge baths are recommended for infants and people with open wounds.
Dishes: Wash dishes by hand using hot water and a solution of 1 teaspoon of unscented household bleach per gallon of water, then let them air-dry, or run your dishwasher if it reaches a sanitize cycle or at least 150°F.
Laundry: Washing clothes with tap water is generally safe.

How to Boil and Disinfect Water

Boiling: Heat the water until you see large, rapid bubbles. Let it boil continuously for 1 minute (or 3 minutes if you are at elevations above 6,500 feet). Let it cool completely.
Chemical Disinfection (If you cannot boil):

• Clear water: Add 8 drops (about 1/8 teaspoon) of unscented household liquid bleach (5% to 9% sodium hypochlorite) per gallon of water. Stir and let sit for 30 minutes.
• Cloudy water: Filter it first through a clean cloth or coffee filter, then add 16 drops (about 1/4 teaspoon) of unscented bleach per gallon. Stir and let sit for 30 minutes.

Despite getting brief relief from the drought-like conditions that have plagued Jackson Parish the last couple of months, the Burn Ban that was placed on October 5th is still in effect. Jackson Parish. This means that all outdoor burning is still not allowed. Violation of this ban may result in a $500.00 fine and/or 6 months in jail.

Original Burn Ban Placed on October 5, 2026

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