In front of a packed boardroom full of visitors at the Special Called meeting of the Jackson Parish School Board held on Thursday, October 1st, Jackson Parish School District Superintendent William “Billy” Carter has been placed on Administrative Leave pending the outcome of an upcoming hearing.

The session was called solely to determine if any disciplinary measures would be handed down against Carter following three allegations of misconduct that had been filed and investigated against him. Immediately after roll call, which showed board members Mary Saulters, Rick Barlow, Gerry Mims, Paulette Belton, Wade McBride, and Dennis Clary in attendance, the board went into executive session pursuant to La.R.S. 42:17(A)(4), which allows a public body to hold a closed executive session under Louisiana’s Open Meetings Law for investigative proceedings regarding allegations of misconduct. Board member Calvin Waggoner was absent.

After a little over an hour and a half, the board returned to open session with no action taken, prompting public comments in which Kari Potts, Kyle Leach, Morgan Dison, Shelly Hall, Brandi Hasley, Timothy Stewart, Jessica Sims, and Wess Smith voiced their support for Carter.

Rick Barlow then made a motion, seconded by Paulette Belton and unanimously carried through a roll call vote, to bring charges against Superintendent Carter. Following, Wade McBride made a motion that was seconded by Gerry Mims to place Superintendent Carter on paid Administrative Leave pending the outcome of a hearing. Again, the motion was unanimously carried.

In a final move before the meeting was adjourned, a motion was made by Dennis Clary, seconded by Rick Barlow, and unanimously carried to appoint Dr. Robin Potts as Acting Superintendent until the regularly scheduled Board Meeting, which will take place on Monday, October 5, 2026.

The Special Called Meeting was called pursuant to a Resolution of the Jackson Parish School Board calling for a hearing in accordance with LA R.S.17:54, which governs the election of local school board officers and the appointment, qualifications, contracts, and removal of parish and city school superintendents.

Details of the three charges filed against Carter showed the dates of the alleged offenses occurred between August 2025 and June 2026, constituting violations of LSA R.S.17:54, LSA R.S.17:811, Title 28 Part CX, Bulletin 741, Jackson Parish School Board Policy BA Goals and Objectives, BBD School Board – School Superintendent Relations, BD School Board Policy, BDA Administrative Regulations and Procedure, CB School Supertindent, CDA School Superintendent/Building Administrators, GBD Employment of Personnel, GBE Assignment, and/or Employment Contract. Such action further constitutes unworthiness, inefficiency, and/or breach of contract

Specific reasons for the charges are as follows:

Charge #1: Unworthiness, Incompetence, Inefficiency, Breach of Contract, Failure to Comply with Board Policy and State Law

Explanation: Mr. Carter failed to properly approve personnel charges prior to the start of the school year and /or contemporaneously with the requested change. Mr. Carter paid a head coach when he knew or should have known that such person was not the head coach and was not entitled to such payment. Mr. Carter failed to timely advise the Board of the prescribed events when it inquired relative to the same

Charge #2: Unworthiness, Incompetence, Inefficiency, Breach of Contract, Failure to Comply with Board Policy and State Law

Explanation: Mr. Carter authorized payment to an employee who was not properly approved or designated internally. Mr. Carter authorized payment of head coach stipends to a coach who served the entire academic year as an unpaid faculty assistant coach, retroactively.

Charge #3: Unworthiness, Incompetence, Inefficiency, Breach of Contract, Failure to Comply with Board Policy and State Law

Explanation: Mr. Carter submitted requested policy changes, failing to consider and/or comply with the board policy and process for reviewing and involvement of certain constituent groups for the development of the policy.

No comments were made by any party involved due to the nature of the ongoing investigation and future hearing.

A copy of the Resolution and official meeting minutes is available under the Public Notice designation in the Classifieds Section of the Jackson Parish Journal.

---

The Town of Jonesboro continues to move forward with infrastructure projects designed to better enhance services and make transportation more reliable. Shown above is a sign signifying approximately $8 MILLION being invested in the future of Jonesboro’s wastewater treatment plant renovation project.

In November 2024, funding was awarded for the consolidation of the North Sewer Pond, followed by a second award in July 2025. Today, those plans are becoming reality as construction has officially begun on Jonesboro’s new wastewater treatment plant.

This major infrastructure project will help modernize our wastewater system, replace aging infrastructure, improve reliability and treatment capacity, strengthen environmental compliance, and prepare Jonesboro for future residential, commercial, and industrial growth.

Below is a picture of the road overlays that have been completed on Maple and Talton Streets in Jonesboro, which improve transportation and safety in the town of Jonesboro. Congratulations to the Town of Jonesboro for securing the funding and getting the work started, which benefits all town residents.

---

The Jackson Parish Sports Hall of Fame held its 17th annual Induction Ceremony banquet on Saturday, October 3rd in the Family Life Center of First Baptist Church in Jonesboro. Entering into the “hallowed hall” were Steve Treadway, Joey Pender, Lowell Miize, and Shelby Green, with Bil DeCou being presented the prestigous Meritorius Service Award.

Also recognized were the 2026 High School Athletes of the Year, selected by select faculty and representatives of Jonesboro-Hodge High School, Quitman High School, and Weston High School. Those being honored were Livi Otwell and Drew Browning of Weston High, Brayden Smith and Magie Guyotte from Quitman, and Dakota Knox and Ciera Gray from Jonesboro-Hodge.

The inclusion of the Fab Five” brings the number of Jackson Parish Sports Hall of Fame members to 94 and those receiving the special Meritorous Awards to seven. Created from a vision held by Mr. Henry Kimp of a venue to recognize the talent and sportsmanship that has been a hallmark of Jackson Parish, the hall of fame recognizes athletes, coaches and administrators who have lived or worked in Jackson Parish and who have made a great impact in the arena of sports.

In 2008 the first meeting of a loosely formed board of the Jackson Parish Sports Hall of Fame was held in Bobby Culpepper’s office with Henry Kimp, Bobby Culpepper, Leslie Thompson, Nathaniel Belton and Raymond Jeffress present. It was declared that the primary function of the Hall of Fame would be to create a memorial so that future generations can see the individuals and their accomplishments as they have represented Jackson Parish.

---

The Jackson Parish School Board will hold its regularly scheduled monthly meeting at 11:00 am on Monday, October 5th, in the Conference Room of the Jackson Parish School District Central Office located at 315 Pershing Hwy in Jonesboro.

Featured is the announcement of a Public Meeting to be held on Monday, November 2nd, where plans to consider and adopt a resolution ordering and calling an election to be held in the Consolidated School District #1 to authorize the levy of an ad valorem tax and the consideration of nominating an acting Superintendent.

The consideration of approving the Memorandum of Understanding with the Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office for five (5) School Resource Officers at a cost of $220,000.00, to be paid from the General Fund, and approving the 2026-27 Pupil Progression Plan. Jackson Parish Recreation Department Director Justin Dodson will also be recognized, as well as the possible adoption of Committee items.

JACKSON PARISH SCHOOL BOARD REGULAR SCHEDULED MEETING AGENDA

Invocation– Dennis Clary
Pledge of Allegiance – Paulette Belton
Call to Order
Consider approving the minutes as presented from the Regular Scheduled meetings held on
September 14, 2026.
Announcement of Public Meeting:
Notice is hereby given that at its meeting to be held on Monday, November 2, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at its
regular meeting place, the Jackson Parish School Board Office, 315 Pershing Hwy., Jonesboro,
Louisiana, the Parish School Board of the Parish of Jackson, State of Louisiana, plans to consider
adopting a resolution ordering and calling an election to be held in the Consolidated School District No.
1 of the Parish of Jackson, State of Louisiana, to authorize the levy of an ad valorem tax therein.
Consider approving the Memorandum of Understanding with the Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office for five
(5) School Resource Officers at a cost of $220,000.00, to be paid from the General Fund.
Consider approving the 2026-2027 Pupil Progression Plan.
Recognize Justin Dodson – Jackson Parish Recreation Department.
Consider nominating an Acting Superintendent, given Superintendent Carter is on Administrative Leave until the issue is resolved.
Consider adopting items per the Committee Reports attached hereto.
Superintendent’s Comments
Adjourn

In accordance with the Americans Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance, please contact William
Carter at 318-259-4456 describing the assistance that is necessary.

---

The countdown to Homecoming 2026 at Jonesboro-Hodge High School, which is themed “There Is No Place Like JHHS,” has entered its final week, setting off what many consider the most enjoyable and memory-making times of a student’s career, and one that alumni always look forward to through class reunions and game-day celebration at the always enjoyable “tailgate,” where former classes come back for fellowship and fun.

A full week of activities is on tap for students, culminating in the crowning of the Homecoming King and Queen at an assembly on Friday and a weekend filled with the Homecoming Parade, annual football game, tailgating at the JHHS campus, and reunions at various locations.

Jonesboro-Hodge High School administration announces that pre-paid wristbands and tailgate passes are available at the Main Office of the school, located at 225 Pershing Hwy in Jonesboro. Tailgate spots cost $200.00, and wristbands, which are required to enter the tailgate area and game, cost $15.00. Payment for both can be made by scanning the QR code shown below.

Planning on being a part of the Homecoming Parade? Then you need to complete the entry form shown below and pay the respective fees. Copies of the form can be picked up at the Main Office on the campus of Jonesboro-Hodge High School, by visiting the Jonesboro-Hodge High School Facebook Page, or by clicking here.

Class of 1976 To Hold 50th Reunion

Every year at Homecoming, members of former graduating classes get together to remember their days and rekindle old friendships. There is always a plethora of class reunions, but none carry the significance of the 50th Class Reunion. This year’s memorable reunion is scheduled to be held on Friday and Saturday, October 3-4, at The Venue at Caney Lake, located at 110 Arbin Culpepper Road in Jonesboro, which provides open-air enjoyment complete with fans and heaters if needed.

To RSVP and payment deadline is Wednesday, October 7th. Checks and/or money orders need to be made out to Class of 1976 Reunion and can be mailed to 375 Dani Drive in Jonesboro. For more information or answers to any questions you may have contact Cassandra Peoples at (318) 548-8072 or by email at gregandsandy.80@gmail.com or Lisa Foldenat (318) 278-3339 and foldenjon@bellsouth.com

---

October is traditionally recognized as Breast Cancer Awareness Month across the nation, and in observance, the Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce (JPCC) is issuing a challenge to Jackson Parish business owners to “Paint the Town Pink.”

About 1 in 8 women in the United States will develop breast cancer in their lifetime, so in honor and support of those who have gallantly fought the battle and those who are survivors, the JPCC has come up with this creative idea to bring better awareness and show unity in the fight against breat cancer.

---

Jonesboro-Hodge, missing two of its offensive backfield starters, took a sluggish 38-18 victory in iover hapless Arcadia, which was celebrating Homecoming 2026. In its final non-district contest of the season, the Tigers improved to 4-1 for the first time since 2009, while Arcadia dropped to 0-5.

With quarterback King Campbell and running back/defensive back Lon’Trevious “Tre” Burns sidelined for the contest, the Tigers had trouble moving the ball until 5:48 in the second quarter; JHHS scored three times in a little over 3 minutes to take a commanding 22-0 lead into the half.

The Tigers’ offensive fireworks got started when JuQuan Qualls, who came in at quarterback midway through the first quarter, ran around right end on a 4th-and-goal play from 10 yards out, capping a 5-play, 75-yard drive. On the same play, but this time to the left, Qualls ran in for the two-point conversion to put JHHS up 8-0.

JHHS quickly scored again after Reginald Hemphill forced a fumble that J-H recovered, leading to Qualls connecting with Jamarlon Johnson on a 60-yard strike on the third play of the possession to go up 14-0. The score would balloon to 22-0 on the Tigers’ next possession when, on the first play from scrimmage after taking over at the Arcadia 20-yard line following Dylan Hayes running down the Hornet punter, who had mishandled a low snap, Qualls found Johnson again, this time from 20 yards out. Qualls would then run in his second 2-point conversion of the contest.

Arcadia, who had come in scoring just 6 points in their first three games and had not attempted a pass in the first half, shocked J-H in the second half by completing all 8 passes tried, leading to a 5-yard touchdown run by Jaiden Kelly and a Darien Baxter to Khalil Abney to close to within 22-12 early in the 4th quarter.

The Tigers reassumed total control of the contest in 23 seconds, scoring twice from long distance on their first play from scrimmage.

Johnson, who etched his name in the all-time JHHS record book with 197 yards receiving, the second-best single-game reception yardage total in JHHS history, was first to score, when he grabbed his 3rd touchdown of the game from 45 yards out. Qualls ran in his third 2-point conversion to put J-H up 30-12. On the Tigers next possession, Qualls sprinted 41 yards to complete the one play drive followed by Kodan Atkins plunging over for the 2-point conversion for the Tigers final points. Arcadia would make it a little closer late in the game, when Abney scooped up a J-H fumble and returned it 46 yards for a score, the first defensive touchdown of the year by Arcadia.

TEAM	1	2	3	4	FINAL
Jonesboro-Hodge (4-1)	0	22	0	16	38
Arcadia (0-5)	0	0	12	6	18

---

Rolling Hills Ministries, one of North Louisiana’s finest thrift stores, has opened its Jonesboro location at 735 Pershing Hwy., the 8th store of the non-profit organization offering a tremendous array of items ranging from clothes to indoor and outdoor furniture and appliances. Under the direction of store manager Tommy Smith, Rolling Hills is open from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm, Monday through Saturday.

---

When Xavier Atkins finished his sophomore season at Jonesboro-Hodge High School, where he set a new school record and led the state with an incredible 219 tackles, many thought he was the best high school linebacker in Louisiana.

Now, as a junior at Auburn University, he is considered to be the best college linebacker in the nation.

That is not just an opinion by local or university fans but by the prestigious Pro Football Network, which this past week ranked the top collegiate linebackers in the nation and gave Atkins the top billing with a 95.0 mark, a full 1.60 points better than second-place TJ Dottery of LSU.

In five games, Atkins, who was voted Defensive Player of the Game for his 8 tackles, 3 tackles for a loss, and one sack effort against Vanderbilt, has recorded 37 tackles in five games, including 7.5 tackles for a loss and three sacks, as well as making an interception and 3 quarterback hits

---

Once a teacher, ALWAYS a teacher!

That is what the Jackson Parish School District believes, and now it is asking retired teachers to share their valuable experience to help with its High-Dosage Tutoring Program. Help support student success by continuing to make a difference by providing focused, small-group academic support.

If interested in signing up or for more information, visit the Jackson Parish School District Central Office located at 315 Pershing Hwy. in Jonesboro or call (318) 259-4456.

---

The administration, faculty, and staff of Jonesboro-Hodge Elementary School congratulate Tytus Campbell for being selected as the 2026-27 Student of the Year.

“Tytus Campbell is a proud 5th grader at J-HES. He has maintained the Principal’s List, scored Mastery across content areas, and is active in National Jr. Beta Club, 4-H, United Way, Basketball, and Football. He is also an active member of Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church of East Hodge, where he serves on the Youth Ministry and is on the Youth Council for the Jackson Parish NAACP Branch #6309.

“On behalf of the Jonebsoro-Hodge Elementary School community, I congratulate Tytus Campbell on this outstanding achievement. Your exceptional academic record, extracurricular involvement, and leadership skills have truly set you apart. May this achievement be the beginning of many more successes in your academic journey and beyond.” -Ms. Copeland, Principal

---

With only the 33rd annual Spooky 50 race left on Friday, October 16th, in the first season under the ownership of Matt and Casey Takewell, the Super Bee Speedway in Chatham announces the top three in track points in the seven divisions of racing.

“After a full season of racing, it’s time to recognize the drivers who finished in the top 3 in track points in each class,” said Takewell. “These guys have shown up, battled week after week and earned their spots at the top.”

---

The Jackson Parish Library has released its activity schedule for October at both the Jonesboro and Chatham branches, as well as the Bookmobile schedule for the final three months of the year. See below for all the events and activities scheduled to take place.

---

Quitman High School has won the Jackson Parish School District Cleanest Campus Award. Celebrating the hard work of the school’s maintenance and custodial team of Cheryl Love, Jenny Hayes, Derrick Pery, Wyatt Timm, and Mac Cooper, a special lunch was provided by Stassen’s Catfish Inn.

“I am so very proud of the work our maintenance crew at Quitman High School does,” said QHS Principal Chris Cavin. “Each one goes above and beyond. We have a large campus with almost 700 students, and yet our five custodians are able to maintain their daily tasks and do anything else needed to keep our campus looking beautiful and running efficiently. I am very thankful for all their hard work.”

If you would like to support this project in the months ahead, please reach out to Ashley Cotten at (318) 259-6611, ext. 6103, or send an email to ashley.cotten@jpsbschools.us

---

Jonesboro-Hodge Elementary School is pleased to present the Positive Behavioral Interventions and Support (PBIS) award winners for October. PBIS is an evidence-based, three-tiered framework used in schools to prevent problem behaviors, teach positive social expectations, and improve overall school climate

PBIS Award Winners for October

Student of the Month: Declan Williams, 5th Grade
Faculty of the Month: Abigail Pepper, Kindergarten
Support of the Month: Johnel Woodard, Custodian

---

The Weston High School administration and staff are pleased to announce the winners of the annual Fall Festival Poster Contest held among elementary students representing grades 2-3 and 4-5.

Fall Festival Poster Contest Grade 2-3 Division Winners

1st place: Wilder Myers
2nd place: Kenzie Billman

Fall Festival Poster Contest Grade 4-5 Division Winners

1st place: Allie Palmer
2nd place: Maddy Palmer
3rd place: Liam Lowry

---

Why October Is A Favorite Month

Of the twelve months that constitute a calendar year, one month stands out as my favorite. October can be rather interesting. The temperature, as it likely will be this year, might tend to be on the warm side. Other Octobers, we can get chilly temps, maybe even an occasional frost.

Before delving into why this month is a favorite, I decided to do a little probing to learn the history of the month of October.

October is the 10th months of the year in our modern calendar but interestingly, it’s name comes from the Latin word “octo”, which means eight.

The ancient Roman calendar began in March, making October the eighth month of a 10-month year.
October always had 31 days in the Roman system and this length never changed. Then somewhere along the way, calendar reforms added January and February to the start of the year, moving October to the 10th position while keeping it’s original numerical name.

The Anglo-Saxons had a name for it because winter was believed to start at the full moon in October. Old England called it “Winmonath” because it was the time for making wine.

How did Halloween get its start? Ancient Celts celebrated Samhain on October 31 to mark summer’s end and welcome winter. This festival later turned into modern Halloween.

As a side note, Christopher Columbus reached the Americas on October 12, 1492 and the United Nations was founded on October 14, 1945.

Okay, that’s enough history. Why is October so important to me? If I had to name one reason, it has to do with squirrel hunting which always begins in early October.

When I was just a kid growing up, I admired my dad when he would come home with a sack of squirrels he had bagged and I secretly longed for the day when I could go hunting with him.

That time came when I was probably five or six years old when one day as dad gathered his gear to head for the woods, he stopped before heading out the door and asked me, his oldest son, how would you like to go with me. Oh boy, it didn’t take me but a second to say yes sir!

I probably had on blue jeans and tennis shoes as we piled in dad’s car and headed for the woods, a dad and an extremely excited youngster.

As dad stepped into the woods with me at his heels, he paused and cautioned me about something of utmost importance if you’re going to sneak up on a squirrel. Be quiet; watch where you step and avoid stepping on dry leaves because of the noise it created. I did a fair job of keeping quiet although I had to be cautioned several times to watch where I stepped.

I don’t remember if dad killed a squirrel on that first foray with me along but on trips when he took me, there were a few times when he cautioned me to be particularly still because he had spotted a squirrel and was trying to sneak up on it.

Finally, dad thought I had progressed enough that he placed a little .22 rifle in my hands as we headed out. I’ll never forget the first time he let me sneak up on a squirrel, take the shot and rush to the squirrel as it tumbled to the ground.

The look on his face as he watched his son bag his first squirrel is still etched in my memory.

Why do I love October? I think by now, you know.

---

FISHING REPORT

CANEY LAKE – Bass are fair around the grass early on topwaters. Reports are that bass are schooling early mornings and late afternoons and hitting shad imitations and soft plastics. Crappie are around the deeper tops and are hitting jigs and shiners. Bream are slow. 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 deep and are fair on shiners or jigs. Some bass are being caught early on topwaters and later using soft plastics and crank baits around deeper brush. For latest information, contact the Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707.
OUACHITA RIVER – Bass are fair on crank baits and soft plastics. Crappie are fair in the river lakes. For latest information, contact the Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707.
LAKE D’ARBONNE – Bass are overall slow but best on topwaters early with some schooling activity noted. Crappie are in deep water in the channel and fair on jigs and shiners. The bream are slow. Catfish are fair on red wigglers and night crawlers fished just off the banks. For latest information, call Anderson Sport Center at 368-9669 or Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707.
LAKE CLAIBORNE – Crappie are suspended where there is more oxygen. Bass are in the shallows early hitting topwaters with some reportedly schooling. Bream are slow. For latest information, call Kel’s Cove at 927-2264 or Terzia Tackle at 278-4498.
LAKE YUCATAN – The water level is slightly rising. Catfish are being caught on trotlines and noodles and buffalo caught in nets. No reports yet on crappie and bass. For info call Surplus City Landing at 318/467-2259.

Nothing New Under the Sun

“There is nothing new under the sun,” says the writer of Ecclesiastes. Clearly, he never had to update the software on his phone while waiting in the Walmart pickup lot.

Surely the Internet has changed everything. We order groceries from the couch, clothes from the kitchen table, and things we did not know we needed while brushing our teeth. By the time a package arrives, I sometimes have to open it to find out what I bought.

But perhaps the writer of Ecclesiastes knew more about us than we think.

A century or so ago, you went to the general store and told the clerk what you needed. The clerk gathered your order from the shelves. In some places, the store even delivered it to your home. If you wanted something special from the Sears catalog, you ordered it and waited. And waited. The catalog was full of wonders, but “arriving tomorrow” was not one of them.

Then came the shopping cart. Store owners wondered whether customers would really fetch their own groceries. They did. Soon we were pushing carts down aisles, filling them ourselves, and choosing among forty-seven kinds of breakfast cereal. Progress had arrived, though nobody had warned us we would eventually have to steer a cart with one bad wheel.

Now we tap a screen, tell someone else what we need, and wait for that person to gather it from the shelves. They may even deliver it to our home. Or we park at Walmart, check in on our phones, and wait for the groceries to appear. We have used astonishing technology to return to telling the clerk what we want.

There is nothing new under the sun.

Of course, Ecclesiastes was saying something deeper than “the general store will make a comeback.” Human life has a way of circling around the same needs. We find new ways to shop, work, and communicate, but we still know disappointment. We still make mistakes. We still lie awake worrying about someone we love. We still long for peace when the day has worn us thin.

Maybe you need a second chance. Maybe life has been so crowded with responsibilities that joy has quietly slipped out the back door. Maybe you are carrying a regret you cannot undo, or you have managed to look fine in public while feeling anything but fine at home.

For those needs, I have one word: Jesus.

Not because speaking his name makes every problem disappear by Thursday. It doesn’t. Jesus offers something better than a quick fix. He meets people who have failed and calls them forward. He welcomes the weary. He gives forgiveness where shame has settled in, and hope where we thought nothing could grow again.

The shopping cart may keep changing. The human heart still needs grace. And the good news of Jesus is that grace is available to you, right where you are—even if right where you are happens to be the Walmart pickup lot.

---

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.

CAREER OPPORTUNITY

CAREER OPPORTUNITY

BUSINESS SERVICES

BUSINESS SERVICES

L P Saw Shop
2612 Hwy 4
Jonesboro, LA
(318) 259 – 4056

BUSINESS SERVICES

BUSINESS SERVICES

Pardue Builders Supply
705 South Hudson Avenue
Jonesboro, LA
(318) 259 – 2529

ATTENTION HUNTERS! Pardue Builders Supply in Jonesboro is now offering Camo Paint in Olive, Green, Black, and Tan for $21.99 per gallon. Also available are Tactacam 3.0 Field Cameras at $119.00 each.

BUSINESS SERVICES

PUBLIC NOTICE

Jackson Parish Police Jury Special Called Meeting Minutes
September 22, 2026

The Jackson Parish Police Jury held a Special Called Meeting on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, at 5:30 PM in the Nathaniel Zeno Jr., meeting room, 160 Industrial Drive, Jonesboro, Louisiana. Members Present: Mrs. Amy Magee, Ms. Regina Rowe, Mrs. Sheketia Combs, President Todd Culpepper, and Mr. Lewis Chatham. Absent: Mrs. Tarneshala Cowans and Mr. Keith Burris. Also present: Mrs. Nia Evans Watkins, Secretary-Treasurer.
President Mr. Culpepper called the meeting to order. Mrs. Magee gave the invocation and Mrs. Combs led in the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance.
Mr. Culpepper called for public comments. There were no public comments. There was no public present.
Motion- Mrs. Magee, seconded Mr. Chatham to approve upholding and affirming the 2025 tax assessment as presented by the tax assessor.
Roll Call Vote
District 1- Yea, District 2-Yea, District 3- Yea, District 4- Yea, District 5- Absent, District 6- Yea, District
7- Absent
YEAS: 5
NAYS: 0
ABSTAINED:
ABSENT: 2
Motion- Ms. Rowe, seconded by Mrs. Combs to approve, allowing Mr. Wayne Anderson and Mr. Ed
Howard to attend the LSWA Conference to be held October 27-28, 2026, in Lafayette, LA. Motion
carried.
Motion- Mrs. Magee, seconded Mr. Chatham to call for a public hearing for the amended subdivision ordinance to be held at 5:15 on October 13, 2026, in the Nathaniel Zeno, Jr., Meeting Room, 160 Industrial Drive, Jonesboro, LA.. Motion carried.
Motion- Ms. Rowe, seconded by Mrs. Combs to adjourn. Motion carried.

PUBLIC NOTICE

Jackson Parish School Board Special Called Meeting Minutes
October 1, 2026

The Jackson Parish School Board met in a Special Called Meeting on October 1,2026, 11:00 a.m. at Jackson Parish School Board, 315 Pershing Highway, Jonesboro, La.
The following were present for roll call: Mary Saulters, Rick Barlow, Gerry Mims, Paulette Belton, Wade McBride and Dennis Clary
Absent: Calvin Waggoner
Motion by Dennis Clary, seconded by Rick Barlow and carried to enter into Executive Session pursuant to La.R.S. 42:17 (A) (4).)
Motion by Gerry Mims, seconded by Wade McBride and carried to return to open session with no action taken.
Public Comments were heard at this time in support of Superintendent Carter.
A motion was made by Rick Barlow, seconded by Paulette Belton and carried to bring charges against Superintendent Carter.
Ayes: Mary Saulters, Dennis Clary, Rick Barlow, Gerry Mims, Paulette Belton and Wade
McBride
Nays: None
Absent: Calvin Waggoner
A motion was made by Wade McBride, seconded by Gerry Mims and carried to place Superintendent Carter on Administrative Leave pending outcome of hearing.
Ayes: Mary Saulters, Dennis Clary, Rick Barlow, Gerry Mims, Paulette Belton and Wade McBride
Nays: None
Absent: Calvin Waggoner
A motion was made by Dennis Clary, seconded by Rick Barlow and carried to appoint Dr. Robin Potts as Acting Superintendent until the regular scheduled Board Meeting, October 5, 2026.
Ayes: Mary Saulters, Dennis Clary, Wade McBride, Gerry Mims, Paulette Belton and Rick Barlow
Nays:
None
Absent: Calvin Waggoner
Motion by Gerry Mims, seconded by Paulette Belton and carried to adjourn at 1:30 p.m

PUBLIC NOTICE

RESOLUTION OF THE JACKSON PARISH SCHOOL BOARD CALLING A HEARING IN ACCORDANCE WITH LA. R.S. 17:54 TO DETERMINE WHETHER OR NOT WILLIAM CARTER SHOULD BE DISCIPLINED OR REMOVED AS SUPERINTENDENT OF THE JACKSON PARISH
SCHOOL SYSTEM

WHEREAS, La. R.S. 17:54 provides that if a superintendent is found incompetent, unworthy, or inefficient or is found to have failed to fulfill the terms and performance objectives of his contract or to comply with School Board policy, the superintendent shall be removed from office; and
WHEREAS, the Jackson Parish School Board (“School Board”) retained special counsel to conduct a thorough investigation of complaints regarding the job performance of Superintendent Carter; and
WHEREAS, following the investigation, the School Board received information suggesting that Mr. Carter exhibited conduct that was unworthy, inefficient, and in violation of State Law and School Board Policy; and
WHEREAS, the School Board further received information suggesting that Mr. Carter breached his employment contract; and
WHEREAS, after considering the information received, the School Board has determined that it should call a hearing in accordance with the provisions of La R.S. 17:54 for the purposes of determining whether or not Mr. Carter should be disciplined, including removal as Superintendent or otherwise disciplined; and
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by theJackson Parish School Board in a regularly called session duly convened on the 1st day of October, 2026, that a hearing be called and held in accordance with La. R.S. 17:54 to determine the truth or falsity of such allegations against Mr. Carter
and to determine whether or not such allegations, if true, warrant his removal or other discipline.
AND NOW, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution signed and certified by the President of the Board be forwarded to Mr. Carter informing him that this Board will hold a hearing
in Jonesboro, Louisiana to consider the charges and to determine whether or not he should be removed or otherwise disciplined. Further, special counsel is directed by the Board to inform Mr. Carter through his counsel in writing of the charges, specific reasons for charges, and potential witnesses against him at least 20 days before the hearing to determine the truth or falsity of allegations against Mr. Carter and to determine whether or not such allegations, if true, warrant his removal or other discipline.
AND NOW, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that special counsel is hereby authorized to retain such expert witnesses as may be necessary to assist the Board in determining the truth or falsity of the allegations against Mr. Carter and to determine whether or not such allegations, if true, warrant his removal or other discipline.
AND NOW, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that special counsel is hereby directed to inform Mr. Carter that the hearing may be public or private at his option and that he may be represented by legal counsel and may present witnesses or other evidence that he desires on his behalf, all in accordance with La. R.S. 17:54.
AND NOW, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that Mr. Carter is to remain on paid administrative leave pending the outcome of the hearing held in accordance with LA R.S. 17:54 to determine the truth or falsity and whether or not such allegations, if true, warrant his removal or other discipLine.

PUBLIC NOTICE

IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR DRINKING WATER

Eros Community WS Failed to Take Corrective Action Following Identification of a Significant
Deficiency

On 5/19/2026, the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) performed a detailed inspection and engineering of our water system called a sanitary survey. During this sanitary survey, they identified one or more significant deficiencies in our system. According to EPA’s Ground Water Rule, we were required to correct the deficiency (or deficiencies) or work with the State to develop a plan to correct the deficiency (or deficiencies). However, we failed to correct the deficiencies or contact the State before the established deadline and have therefore violated a requirement of the Ground Water Rule.
What should I do?
There is nothing you need to do. You do not need to boil your water or take other corrective actions. If a
situation arises where the water is no longer safe to drink, you will notified within 24 hours.
What does this mean?
This is not an emergency, you would have been notified with 24 hours.
This significant deficiency has the potential to result in lack of proper treatment and oversight of the water
system. Inadequately treated or inadequately protected water may contain disease-causing organisms.
These organisms can cause symptoms such as diarrhea, nausea, cramps, and associated headaches.
While we have not detected any evidence of contamination or other health threats related to our source
water, we are still committed to correcting the deficiency to eliminate the threat of contamination.
What was done?
We are currently working to address and resolve the identified violations. The pressure tank is currently in
use, although it was previously believed to be out of service. We are in the process of arranging for the tank to be painted and inspected and will ensure that the pressure tank and all associated piping and
connections are properly configured and maintained to protect the safety of the drinking water supply. We
are also working to bring our cross-connection control records up to date. Cross-connection questionnaires have been distributed, and we are following up with customers whose questionnaires have not yet been returned. Any connections identified as posing a potential cross-connection or contamination risk will be evaluated and addressed appropriately to protect the public water supply.

Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may not
have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and other
businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail.
For more information, please contact Heather Lewis at 318-417-6700 or PO Box 154, Eros, LA 71238

Dee Ann McDonald Zeno
March 25, 1942 – September 17, 2026

Dee Ann McDonald went to be with the Lord on September 17th, at the age of 84. The Celebration of Life service as held on Saturday, October 3rd at Traveler’s Rest Missionary Baptist Church in Jonesboro under the direction of Paradise Funeral Home.

Eunice Burris
November 14, 1938 – September 28, 2026

Eunice Burris, 87, was a woman whose love could be felt in the little things—the way she cared for her family, the meals she lovingly prepared, the time she spent tending her garden, the peaceful moments she enjoyed fishing, and the countless memories she created with the people she loved.

To know Eunice was to know a woman who loved deeply and gave of herself freely. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and, above all, a woman who loved Jesus with all her heart. Her faith was not simply something she talked about; it was woven into the way she lived and loved.

Eunice was the beloved wife of Jackie Burris. Together, they built a life filled with family, love, and memories that will be treasured forever.

She was born to Vera and Willie Smith and was preceded in death by her husband, Jackie Burris, her parents, Vera and Willie Smith, and her brother, Billie Smith and her son-in-law, Johnny Hall.

Eunice leaves behind her children, who will forever carry her love with them: Keith Burris (TC), Red Burris (Lisa), Teri Hall, and Nadia Starks (Henry).

She was blessed with grandchildren who brought so much joy to her life: Shane and Suzanna Burris; Shannon and Jonathan Boudreaux; Emily and Adam Jones; Ethan and Katie Hall; Natalie and Deveon Brister; Harley and Chance Williams; and Breylan Starks.

Her legacy continues through her great-grandchildren: Ellie and Mollie Burris; Jackson and Anna Kathryn Boudreaux; Briley, Taylor, and Charlea Jones; Hinley and Emmett Hall; Piper, Ranger, and Jessie Brister; and CJ, Mady, and Addi Williams.

One of the ways Eunice showed her love was through her cooking. She loved to cook, and there was something special about gathering around a table and enjoying food that she had prepared. Cooking was more than just something she did—it was one of the ways she cared for the people she loved. Her kitchen was a place where love was shared, memories were made, and family could come together. The meals she made and the love she put into them will be remembered long after the last plate has been cleared.

There are so many things her family will miss—the sound of her voice, her presence at family gatherings, her cooking, the stories and memories, and simply knowing she was there. They will miss watching her enjoy the garden she loved and remembering the peaceful times she spent fishing. Most of all, they will miss the love that only Maw could give.

But even in their grief, her family can be grateful. Grateful for every hug, every conversation, every meal, every laugh, every lesson, and every moment they were blessed to share with her. Her life touched more people than she may have ever realized, and the love she gave will continue through her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Eunice loved Jesus more than anything in this world. Her family takes comfort in knowing that she is now home with Him, free from earthly cares and surrounded by the peace she believed in so deeply.

She may no longer be here for us to hold, but she will forever be held in our hearts. The garden she tended may one day fade, the kitchen may grow quiet, but the seeds of love, faith, and family that she planted will continue to grow for generations to come.

Until we meet again, we love you, and we will miss you more than words can say.

The Life Celebration Service was held on Friday, October 2nd, in the Paradise Funeral Home Chapel in Jonesboro, LA. Interment followed at Fellowship Baptist Church ini Jonesboro under the direction of Paradise Funeral Home.

Pallbearers were Shane Burris, Ethan Hall, Breylan Starks, Jonathan Boudreaux, Deveon Brister, Chance Williams, Michael Bucha, and Tommy Goss. Honorary Pallbearers were Lonnie Lowe and Russell Garter

---

The 2026 JPSHOF Induction Banquet will be held in the Family Life Center of the First Baptist Church in Jonesboro, located at 500 South Cooper Street. The gala event will begin at 5:00 pm with a “meet and greet” social hour, followed by the Induction program and dinner, where five local legends will be enshrined as the “Class of 2026” and another will receive the prestigious Meritorious Service Award.

The Class of 2026 includes Lowell Mize (JHHS football), Shelby Green (Quitman High boys basketball), Steve Treadway (JHHS football), and Joey Pender (JHHS coach). Bill DeCou (Rundell Junior High Coach) will be honored with the Outstanding Meritorious Award. Cynthia Loyd Stampley was also selected for induction as a member of the “Class of 2026,” but because she had hip replacement surgery last week, she will now be enshrined next year.

Also being recognized as the 2025-26 High School Male and Female Athletes of the Year are:
Dakota Knox and Ciara Gray of Jonesboro-Hodge High School
Brayden Smith and Maggie Guyotte of Quitman High School
Livi Otwell and Drew Browning of Weston High School.

Seats for the ceremony and dinner are now being reserved for $25.00 per person and $225.00 for a table of eight. Reserved tables for induction members are $200.00. To make your reservation, contact Harrell Bond at (318) 243-5266 or Wilda Smith at (318) 426 – 6511. You can also email wsmithcoc@aol.com. Reservations will be taken until noon on Friday, October 2nd. Payments can be made at the door or by mailing a check or money order to:
Jackson Parish Sports Hall of Fame
c/o Wilda Smith
PO Box 192
Jonesboro, LA 71251

The Jackson Parish Sports Hall of Fame was created from a vision held by Mr. Henry Kimp of a venue to recognize athletes, coaches, and administrators who have lived or worked in Jackson Parish and who have made a great impact in the arena of sports. In 2008, the first meeting of a loosely formed board of Henry Kimp, Bobby Culpepper, Leslie Thompson, Nathaniel Belton, and Raymond Jeffress took place and declared that the primary function of the Hall of Fame would be to create a venue of outstanding individuals and their accomplishments so that future generations would know more about the tremendous history of athletics in Jackson Parish and the people who helped make it great.

In 2009, the inaugural induction ceremony took place with John Garlington, Bob Hopkins, Jo Ann Jackson-Buckner, Dr. Arnold Kilpatrick, and Edgar Walker being the first class to be enshrined. With the inclusion of this year’s class, the Jackson Parish Sports Hall of Fame will now boast 88 inductees and seven Meritorious Award winners.

To learn more about the Jackson Parish Sports Hall of Fame and the ones enshrined, click here or visit https://www.jpsportshalloffame.com/

---

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) announces that squirrel and rabbit season opens 𝗦𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗱𝗮𝘆, 𝗢𝗰𝘁𝗼𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝟯, statewide!

These hunts are an affordable way to spend time outdoors and introduce young people to hunting. Squirrel and rabbit hunting are relatively inexpensive, and many LDWF public lands offer hunting opportunities.

Hunters 18 and older need a basic hunting license. If you’re heading to an LDWF Wildlife Management Area (WMA), remember that visitors 18 and older need a qualifying license or WMA Access Permit, and hunters must check in and out.

Find season regulations and places to hunt: https://buff.ly/Kb9CN7P
Get your license: https://louisianaoutdoors.com/

The season runs through 𝗙𝗲𝗯𝗿𝘂𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝟮𝟴, 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟳.

For more information on squirrel and rabbit hunting in Louisiana, go to the LDWF small game webpage: https://buff.ly/tlQp5Fk

---

The Governing Board of Directors of Jackson Parish Hospital announces that a Public Hearing on the proposed hospital budget for the year ending September 30, 2027, will be held at 12:00 pm on Wednesday, in the Jackson Parish Hospital Board Room, located at 165 Beech Springs Road in Jonesboro.

Board Chairman Chris Bowman will call the hearing to order and open the floor for public comments, limited to 5 minutes each. Afterward, the session will adjourn for the regularly scheduled meeting of board members Bowman, Dr. William J. Slusher, LPN Shontae Mims, and Kim Hutchinson. Also expected to attend are CEO John Morgan, COO/CIO Dr. Jason Thomas, CFO Bill Stansbury, Dr. Edward Mariano, RN Jerry Allen, and Shelley Malsam.

Jackson Parish Hospital Board Agenda

1. Call to Order and Invocation – Chairman
2. Notice of Meeting and Quorum – Chairman
3. Approval of Agenda – Chairman
4. Approval of Minutes – Chairman
   4.1 Minutes from August 26, 2026 Business Meeting
5. Public Comments (5-Minute Limit)
6. Chief of Staff Report – Dr. Edward Mariano
   6.1 Chief of Staff Report
7. Chief Executive Officer’s Report – John Morgan, RN, MBA
   7.1 Audit Compliance Questionnaire FYE 9/30/2025
   7.2 Resolution 2026-6 Adopting Audit Compliance Questionnaire FYE 9/30/2026
   7.3 Approval of 2026-2027 Paid Holiday Schedule
   7.4 Construction Update
   7.5 Reminder to Complete Annual Ethics Training
8. Chief Operating/Information Officer’s Report – Dr. Jason Thomas
   8.1 3D Mammography Equipment Lease
   8.2 RHTP Telehealth Application Funding – Year 1 Approval Received
9. Chief Financial Officer’s Report – Bill Stansbury, CPA
   9.1 Resolution 2026-7 Adopting Operating Budget FY27
   9.2 Check Register, Special Checks, and ACH Debits for August 2026 – September 2026
   9.3 Hospital Financials
10. Clinical Report – Jerry Allen, RN
    10.1 JPH FCC August 2026 Statistics
    10.2 Jonesboro FCC August 2026 Statistics
    10.3 Chatham Medical Clinic August 2026 Statistics
    10.4 ED Patient Arrival to First Documentation – August 2026
11. Revenue Cycle Director’s Report – Shelley Malsam, RHIT, CRHCP
    11.1 Hospital Statistics – August 2026
12. Executive Session to discuss Strategic Planning
13. Contracts
14. Status of November Board Meeting and Date of December Meeting
15. Board Comments
16. Announcements – Chairman
    16.1 The next regular business meeting will be held Wednesday, October 28, 2026, at Noon in the hospital boardroom
17. Adjournment – Chairman

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance, please
contact John Morgan or Dr. Jason Thomas at (318) 259-4435, describing the assistance that is
necessary.

---