(Paid Content) My name is David D. Womack. I served as Jackson Parish Justice of the Peace for District D from 2011–2012 (filling a vacancy) and then was elected and served from 2015 until 2022. The Louisiana Supreme Court also appointed me to serve in District A on two separate occasions when vacancies occurred.

During my time in office, I presided over and settled more than 1,500 civil cases. I resigned in 2022 for personal reasons related to a divorce, and a special election was held to complete the remainder of the term. Four years later, after learning of inefficiencies in the Justice of the Peace Court, I have been asked to re-qualify for the position.

If elected, I will apply the law fairly and impartially—right down the middle—just as I have always strived to do.

I humbly ask for your vote and thank you for your consideration on November 3, 2026.

David D. Womack #86

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A total of 41 teams from schools all over North Louisiana braved a blustery day on Lake Claiborne to take part in the Northeast Louisiana High School Anglers tournament, the second on the circuit that makes up the fall schedule.

Jackson Parish sent several anglers, with five Quitman High School teams finishing in the top twenty-five, led by Jake Vail and Jaxon Cheatwood, who finished 10th overall. Asher Norred and Cruz Nomey placed 15th and 3rd in the junior division, while Jaxen Culpepper and Hayden Essmeier came in 17th, and the team of Shepard Norred/Jackson Ables finished 20th. Raylan Layfield and Ryder Pardue came in 21st place, and Mason Lemoine and Brody Halbrook, representing Gracepoint Christian Academy, finished in 30th place.

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The Jackson Parish Library Board of Controls will meet on Monday, October 19th. The session is scheduled to begin at 4:30 pm in the McBride Room of the Main Branch located at 614 South Polk Avenue in Jonesboro.

Board members Paula Essmeier, Judy Cooper, Lisa Nunn, Ann Standley, Paula Jenkins, Robin Tew, Carol Massey, and Jackson Parish Police Jury Ex Officio Lewis Chatham will consider and possibly act on the following agenda.

Jackson Parish Library Board Meeting Agenda

Call to Order
Invocation
Roll Call:
Public Comments
Approval of Minutes
Review and adopt the minutes from the July 20 board meeting.
Report of Director: Statistical and Financial
Review and adopt the 3rd quarter financial reports.
Review and adopt the 3rd quarter statistical reports.
Old Business
Updates on emergency doors project at Jonesboro branch.
Consider and act on change order from Dodson Enterprises.
New Business
Ben Ledbetter from Jackson Parish Sports Hall of Fame.
Consider and act on request from Jackson Parish Sports Hall of Fame.
Staffing discussions
Consider and act on confirming the end date of Richard Morton’s probationary period.
Discuss and act on hiring two part-time positions for Jonesboro branch. Review and adopt proposed 2026-2027 pay schedule.
Review and adopt updated Capital Planning Workbook.
Consider and act on changes to special funds accounts.
Review and adopt the amended 2026 budget and 2027 budget proposal (roll call vote).
Other Business/ Announcements
Grants/Donations
Cassandra Knobloch
Glenn & Stella Jones
Chatham Grocery
Mitchells Pharmacy
Sherri Flynn, Flynn’s Camping Grounds

The next scheduled meeting is Tuesday, January 21, 2027.

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance, please contact
Floyd Knox at (318) 259-5697 or by email at floyd@jacksonparishlib.org

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The Jonesboro-Hodge Junior High softball team will host Mansfield on Wednesday, October 21st, at the Lady Tigers softball field on Thrasher Avenue in Jonesboro, just behind Jonesboro-Hodge Elementary School.

Under the direction of head coach Geneice Levinston, who also coaches the Lady Tigers varsity softball team, 18 young ladies in grades 5-8 will represent J-H in a five-game fall schedule (see below) featuring three home games.

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Please join Jackson Parish Hospital (JPJ) in celebrating our October ‘WOW’ Award recipient, Cameron Gresham, a Phlebotomist in our Laboratory Department!

Patients nominated Cameron for the kindness and compassion she brings to every interaction. Described as gentle, sweet, and caring, Cameron’s wonderful bedside manner helps patients feel safe, comfortable, and at ease.

Her thoughtful approach to patient care reflects the patient-centered service we strive to provide at JPH. The kind words patients share reflect the positive impact Cameron makes through her work each day.

“Thank you for all that you do, Cameron! You truly embody what it means to be ‘WOW,’ and we are grateful for the kindness and dedication you bring to JPH every day!” – JPH Administration

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When Emma McBride was starring in basketball and softball at Weston High School, the goal was to score as much as she could. Now it is different. As a member of the Central Baptist College (CBC) ladies’ golf team, she tries to score as little as she can. What is the same is that the daughter of Jeffrey and Rebecca McBride is still a star for her team.

McBride shaved three strokes off her score in round two of the Central Baptist College Invitational, played on the difficult Country Club of Arkansas golf course in Maumelle, Arkansas, to finish 14th, the top placement of any CBC player.

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One of the biggest misconceptions about domestic violence is that a person should only contact a domestic violence program when they are ready to leave. That simply isn’t true. You don’t have to be ready to leave to ask for help. You don’t have to have a packed suitcase. You don’t have to have a plan. You don’t have to know what you’re going to do next. And you don’t have to make a decision about your relationship before reaching out to an advocate.

Sometimes, you just need someone to talk to. Asking for help doesn’t mean you’re leaving. A person experiencing abuse may have many reasons for not being ready to leave. They may have children. They may depend on their partner financially. They may not have transportation. They may have nowhere to go. They may be worried about their pets. They may still love their partner. They may hope the abuse will stop. They may be afraid of what will happen if they leave. They may have left before and returned. They may simply not know what they want to do yet. None of these reasons mean they don’t deserve help.

A domestic violence advocate’s job isn’t to tell someone what decision to make. An advocate can provide information, listen without judgment, discuss safety concerns, and help a survivor understand the options available to them.

You can ask questions before you make a decision

Maybe you’re wondering:
• Is what I’m experiencing actually abuse?
• What are my options?
• Where could I go if I needed to leave?
• What would happen to my children?
• Can I get help without my partner knowing?
• What if I don’t want to leave right now?

These are all legitimate questions.

You don’t have to wait until the situation becomes an emergency to ask them. In fact, learning about your options before a crisis occurs can help you make safer and more informed decisions if circumstances change.

In a small community, asking for help can feel intimidating. You may know the people who work in local agencies. Your partner may know them too. You may worry that someone will find out. You may live miles away from available services. You may not have reliable transportation. You may worry about what your neighbors, family, coworkers, or church members will think. You may feel like everyone knows your business. Those concerns are real. But they shouldn’t prevent someone from learning about available resources and receiving support.

There is no “right time” to ask for help.

You don’t have to wait until you’re seriously injured. You don’t have to wait until the police are called. You don’t have to wait until your children witness an incident. You don’t have to wait until you have finally decided, *“I’m done.”

If you’re being threatened, controlled, isolated, intimidated, financially controlled, monitored, or physically harmed, you can ask for help.

If you’re simply confused about what you’re experiencing, you can ask questions.

One of the most important things a survivor can regain is a sense of control over their own life. Abuse often takes away choices. The abuser may decide where you go, who you talk to, how you spend money, what you wear, when you can leave the house, or whether you’re allowed to see family and friends. A domestic violence program should not replace that control with another person telling you what to do.

Your life. Your circumstances. Your decision.

Want to talk more? Please call DART at 318-395-8006.

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From a Cull to Wall Hanger in One Year

When a particular buck stepped out this time last year, Rick Guillot, who lives in Elm Grove, decided he needed to be taken out because a strangely formed seven points labeled him as an obvious cull; his genetics needed to be removed from the herd.

“I hunt on a 2,000 acre private piece of property three other guys and I have under lease in Red River Parish. We have some good deer on the place and this weird looking seven point had no place in the herd. When he showed up last year, I thought it best to go ahead and remove him as we didn’t want his genes to have a negative effect on our deer,” said Guillot.

The buck stepped out, Guillot drew his bow and released an arrow but unfortunately, there was a small branch in the way that deflected the arrow, giving the seven point a new lease on life.

“I saw him several times last season but never got another chance at him,” Guillot said. “However when this summer rolled around, something magical had happened to what had been a cull the year before. His scraggly seven points had transitioned into a massive 8 points frame with several kickers when added up made the buck a 13 point bruiser. Also, his body was quite a bit larger. I was glad I missed him last year because I could tell he would be a real shooter this season,” he added.

Trail cam photos confirmed that the buck had improved to be a main frame 8 point with a split brow tine and several kickers long enough to measure so he had grown to carry a rack of 13 points this fall.

Bow season opened this year on October 1 and on Friday October 2 around 3:00 that afternoon, Guillot climbed onto a ladder stand situated in an oak glade next to a bayou armed with his Mathews bow, Carbon Express Arrows and Sevr broadhead.

“At first, the woods were quiet and I wasn’t seeing anything. Then later that afternoon, some does began to filter in from the woods to a corn pile I had out front. Then I began hearing sticks breaking in the woods behind me and here came a parade of bucks and I recognized the third one in line was the big 13 point,” Guillot continued.

The parade of bucks walked right past his ladder, almost close enough to brush against it and Guillot kept his eye on the big buck.

“The buck turned at just the right angle if I had been a left handed shooter but being right handed, I couldn’t get around until he moved to give me a good shot at 15 yards. I took it, knew I had had hit him good and watched him run and pile up at 100 yards,” he said.

The buck, in addition to sporting a total of 13 scorable points, carried a big body weighing in at 264 pounds. He was aged at 6 ½ years and his rack measured 159 2/8 inches.

Fortunately, a branch-deflected arrow the year before gave Rick Guillot the chance he needed to arrow a real quality buck this season.

With gun season opening this weekend, I am already primed and ready to talk with successful hunters who will hopefully be contacting me about their big bucks as Guillot did on this one. One of my fun things to do during deer season is to talk with hunters who have connected with big bucks and I get to tell their stories to readers of LA Sportsman magazine.

If you get one with antlers measuring 140 inches or better, give me a shout; you could be next to have your story told.

FISHING REPORT

CANEY LAKE – Bass are fair around the grass early on topwaters. 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. Some are beginning to chase shad and school on the surface. 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 fairly deep. Bass are in the shallows early hitting topwaters with some schooling. Bream reportedly are slow. For latest information, call Kel’s Cove at 927-2264 or Terzia Tackle at 278-4498.
LAKE YUCATAN – 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.

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Use It or Lose It

“Use it or lose it.”

Football coaches said that in the weight room, usually while we were trying to explain why we needed to sit down. Language professors warned us to use our Greek, Hebrew, Latin, and German daily. My piano teacher said something similar about muscle memory. Apparently, muscles have memories. Mine remember how much they dislike exercise.

I haven’t used it, and I have almost lost it.

I am talking about my handwriting.

I often write notes to members of the congregation. Some are invitations to church events. Others offer encouragement during rocky times. Then there is my special category: “I know where you sit, and I haven’t seen you sitting there for a couple of Sundays.”

If you want your preacher to have trouble tracking your attendance, move around the sanctuary. Of course, convincing a Methodist to change pews may require a greater miracle than anything I am prepared to perform.

I was writing a pile of those notes this week. For every successful note, I threw away two because of mistakes. By the time I finished, I had encouraged six church members and exhausted a small forest.
My handwriting is on the fritz. I know what I intend to write, but somewhere between my brain and my fingers, the message gets translated into a prescription.

When I was growing up, we learned cursive in the third grade. It was a rite of passage. Adults could no longer hide information in that mysterious, looping script. The Christmas gift list was finally readable. Unfortunately, so were the chores.

We spent hours forming those majestic letters. Our teachers expected proper slants, graceful loops, and consistent spacing. My handwriting now looks like a committee reached an agreement on none of those things.
These days, I do most of my writing on a keyboard. The computer straightens my lines, corrects my spelling, and occasionally changes a perfectly good word into something that could end my ministry.
I have neglected a skill I once used every day. Now my fingers need a refresher course.

Where has “use it or lose it” proven true in your life?

Some things grow rusty when we neglect them. That includes the ways we love one another. Patience needs practice, especially with people who give us plenty of opportunities. Compassion grows when we pay attention. Forgiveness takes more exercise than holding a grudge, although a grudge can certainly wear you out.

Jesus calls us to put love into practice: love our neighbors, pray for our enemies, forgive one another, and care for those who are easily overlooked. Those teachings become part of our lives as we follow him in ordinary, sometimes inconvenient moments.

We do not practice our way into earning his love. His love comes first. Then, by his grace, we learn to love as he loves.

So find a church on Sunday. We will be practicing following Jesus together. Then comes Monday, when we discover whether we learned anything. You are welcome to sit beside me. Just don’t ask me to take notes.

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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

PEOPLES BANK
#38210
TYLER RAY JOHNS AND ALI DANIELLE JOHNS

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 4TH day of November, 2026, between the hours governing judicial sales, the following property to wit:
BEGINNING AT THE NEC OF THE SW1/4 OF SW1/4, SECTION 22, TOWNSHIP 14 NORTH, RANGE 2 WEST, JACKSON PARISH LOUISIANA, AND RUN WEST ALONG THE NORTH FORTY LINE OF THE SW 1/4 OF SW 1/4, N89°43’41” WEST 1096.69 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 00°04’05” WEST 140.78 FEET TO THE CENTERLINE OF LA HWY 147; THENCE RUN ALONG AND WITH THE CENTER LINE OF LA HWY 147 SOUTH 85°41’28” EAST 60.81 FEET; THENCE CONTINUE ALONG AND WITH THE CENTERLINE OF LA HWY 147, SOUTH 85°33’02” EAST 202.81 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 85°27’13” EAST 41.42 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 84°39’12” EAST 34.58 FEET FOR A STARTING POINT: THENCE CONTINUE ALONG THECENTERLINE OF LA HWY 147 SOUTH 84°39’12” EAST 44.73 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 81°24’58” EAST 84.95 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 76°35’02” EAST 85.81 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 72°19’33” EAST 42.40 FEET THENCE LEAVING SAID CENTERLINE RUN SOUTH 00°08’28” EAST 260.57 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 89°51’32” WEST 327.89 FEET; THENCE NORTH 13°31’54” EAST 319.89 FEET TO THE STARTING POINT,
CONTAINING 1.594 ACRES MORE OR LESS, TOGETHER WITH ALL IMPROVEMENTS THEREON AND APPURTENANCES THEREUNTO BELONGING.

Seized as the property of the above-named defendant and will be sold to satisfy said Writ and
all costs, sale to be made for cash WITH benefit of appraisal.

BRENT BARNETT, SHERIFF
EX-OFFICIO, AUCTIONEER

CAREER OPPORTUNITY

CAREER OPPORTUNITY

CAREER OPPORTUNITY

BUSINESS SERVICES

BUSINESS SERVICES

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

BUSINESS SERVICES

BUSINESS SERVICES

BUSINESS SERVICES

Tommy Wayne Triplett
July 15, 1961 – October 12, 2026

Tommy Wayne “Tom” Triplett, age 65, passed away on Monday, October 12, 2026, at Forest Haven Nursing Home in Jonesboro, Louisiana. Tom was an intelligent, personable man who enjoyed good conversation, new experiences, and the company of others. He earned his master’s degree in psychology from Louisiana Tech University and went on to become a licensed counselor, dedicating his professional life to helping others. His academic abilities and determination were evident early in life when he earned acceptance to the prestigious United States Military Academy at West Point. Unfortunately, an eye condition prevented him from attending.

Tom had a curious mind and a natural talent for computers, always enjoying the opportunity to explore the latest advancements in technology. He also had a passion for cooking, traveling, and discovering good restaurants. In his younger years, he especially enjoyed camping and spending time outdoors. Tom never missed an opportunity for a good conversation and genuinely enjoyed meeting people and sharing stories. He will be remembered for his intelligence and the many conversations and memories he shared with those who knew him.

Tommy is survived by his daughter, Cali Winkler, and her husband, Devon; grandson, Peyten Winkler; sister, Kim (Triplett) West; nephew, Alexander West; and various cousins, other relatives, and friends.

Tommy was preceded in death by his mother, Susie (Kim) Triplett; father, Lester Wayne Triplett; and paternal grandparents, Lester and Ruth (Decker) Triplett.

After family and friends visited on Friday, October 16, at Southern-Edmonds Funeral Home in Jonesboro, a graveside service was held at Garden of Memories in Jonesboro, with Rev. Clayton Owen officiating.

Serving as pallbearers were Devin Winkler, Kris Wigley, Tony Corley, Mark Bartlett, John Sutton, and Chuck Allen. Honorary Pallbearer was Will Parkinson.

Evylon (Borland) Pepper
August 27, 1927 – October 15, 2026

Evylon (Borland) Pepper, age 99 of Jonesboro, was called to her Heavenly home on Thursday, October 15, 2026. She was born on Saturday, August 27, 1927 to the blessed union of Claude and Burt (Brown) Borland. Evylon enjoyed spending her time quilting, gardening and making preserves. She loved to listen to gospel music and was an Elvis Presley fan. When she was still able, Evylon liked going fishing and spending some time outdoors. Her family was her biggest source of joy and she loved them dearly.

Those left to cherish her precious memory are her children, Willie Curry, Lena Smith, Bettie James and husband Bobby, Greg Pepper; 19 grandchildren; numerous great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren; siblings, Raymond Borland and wife Mary, Melba (Borland) Shows; Aunt, Eva Faye Raborn; cousins, Jo Masters, Susie Rowe; a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. She is also survived by best friends, Gary Fenn, Carl Fenn, Sherry Terry, and Pops. She was preceded in death by her husband, Bill Pepper; daughters, June, Louise, Margie, Lill; sons, Ricky Pepper, Donald Pepper, grandchildren, Danny Carpenter, Staci Pepper; parents, Claude and Burt (Brown) Borland; siblings, Earline Chandler, Elbert Borland; best friends, Effie Fenn and Bub Fenn.

Funeral services are set for Sunday, October 18, 2026 at 2:00PM in the Southern-Edmonds Funeral Home Chapel in Jonesboro, LA with Bro. Robert Tyler officiating. Burial will follow in Walnut Ridge Cemetery under the direction of Southern-Edmonds Funeral Home.

Serving the family as pallbearers will be Keith Staggs, Joshua Pepper, Colton Jordan, Dewayne Morris, Brayden Carmichael and Jesse Carpenter. Austin Stillwell will be an honorary pallbearer.

Carl Nelson Daniel
April 14, 1945 – October 3, 2026

Carl Nelson Daniel gained his heavenly wings on October 3, 2026, at the age of 81. His Celebration of Life service was held on Saturday, October 17th at the Galilee Missionary Baptist Church in Hodge, LA, under the direction of Paradise Funeral Home in Jonesboro, LA.

Brenda (Durbin) Shively
December 3, 1951 – October 11, 2026

Brenda Sue (Durbin) Shively, age 74, of Dodson, was called to her Heavenly home on Sunday, October 11, 2026. Brenda was born in Jonesboro, Louisiana, on Monday, December 3, 1951, to Douglas and Pauline Durbin. She loved music and was a talented pianist. She could play a wide variety of styles such as gospel, country, and boogie-woogie. She shared her musical talent in churches and music halls across North Louisiana. Brenda was a woman of deep faith and extraordinary talent. She loved the Lord, her church and church family dearly. Above all else, Brenda loved her family and her friends; she especially loved and cherished her grandchildren.

Those left to cherish her memory are her husband, Thomas Shively; sons, Jason Shively and Tiffany, Jacob Shively and Patience; grandchildren, Taylor Shively, Durbin Shively, Ella Shively, Georgia Horton, Mackenzie Horton; great-grandson, Greyson Patrick; siblings, Deanna Page and Mike, Nelda Shows and Randy, Teresa Kirkham and Randy Bill; and a whole host of nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Douglas and Pauline (Green) Durbin; brothers, David Durbin, Russell Durbin; nephew, Lyndon Kirkham.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at Antioch Community Church in Brewton’s Mill with Bro. Byron Earls and Mike Page officiating. Burial followed in the church cemetery under the direction of Southern-Edmonds Funeral Home in Jonesboro

Serving as pallbearers were Craig Durbin, Brian Durbin, Rodney Shows, Drew Thomisee, Charlie Page, and Durbin Shively. The honorary pallbearer was Greyson Patrick.

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Per a report by the Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office (JPSO) on October 12, 2026, investigators with the JPSO arrested Matthew “Scott” Sullivan, of Eros, Louisiana, following an investigation into allegations of sex crimes.

Sullivan was arrested and charged with the following offenses:
● First Degree Rape — Four (4) Counts (La. R.S. 14:42)
● Indecent Behavior with Juveniles (La. R.S. 14:81)
● Video Voyeurism (La. R.S. 14:283)

The investigation was conducted by the Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office with assistance from the
Louisiana Attorney General’s Office, the Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Children’s
Advocacy Center of Northeast Louisiana.

“We would like to thank these agencies and organizations for their professionalism, cooperation, and assistance throughout the investigation,” said Jackson Parish Sheriff Brent Barnett. “Cases of this nature require careful investigative work and close coordination among agencies, with particular attention to protecting the privacy and well-being of victims.”

To protect victim confidentiality and preserve the integrity of the case, no additional details will
be released at this time.

All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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The Water Boil Advisory that was issued on October 2nd for the Quitman Water System customers on Bear Knoll Drive has been lifted. The announcement was made on Tuesday, October 13th, after water system officials received a notice from the Louisiana Department of Health stating that the drinking water had been deemed safe following testing.

The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) advises motorists that the LA 810 Bridge over Brown Creek, near Weston, in Jackson Parish, which had been closed for necessary repairs on September 28th, is now open. The DOTD appreciates your patience and thanks motorists for driving with caution through the construction site and watching for work crews and their equipment.

Jonesboro-Hodge will play St. Mary’s of Natchitoches at Lakeview High School in Campti on Friday in a District 3-1A matchup that will have a major impact on the Tigers’ chances of claiming their first district title since 2021.

Originally scheduled for Turpin Stadium on the Northwestern State University campus in Natchitoches, the de facto home field for St. Mary’s, the contest was moved to Lakeview High School after the NSU field wasn’t available.

“I don’t know if playing the game at Lakeview is an advantage for us or not,” laughed Blankenship, who, with a victory, will move into a tie for most all-time wins by a coach in JHHS football history. “St. Mary’s is a very good team, and beating them is going to be a strong challenge no matter where we play them.”

For the second week in a row, JHHS will face a team with a strong early-season record. Last week, Ringgold came to Caldwell-Peacock Stadium on the JHHS campus for the Tiger Homecoming game, bringing an undefeated 4-0 mark. The record was somewhat deceiving, as three of the Redskins’ wins came against teams that still have not won a game this season, and the other was against a team with a losing record.

The challenge that St. Mary’s presents is an altogether different scenario.

The Tigers of Natchitoches are an impressive 5-1 this year and ranked #6 in the LHSAA power poll for Division IV “select” schools. They were undefeated until last week, when Logansport, ranked #7 in the Division IV “non-select” rankings, blocked a deciding field goal attempt in the final seconds to escape with a 29-28 victory in the District 3-1A opener for both teams. Earlier, St. Mary’s had beaten Vidalia 22-6, Red River 26-20, Menard 46-14, Grant 29-28, and Winnfield 23-14, the same Winnfield team that gave JHHS their only loss of the year by a 48-28 margin. All of these schools are from a higher classification.

JHHS is also at 5-1, their best record at this point of the season since 2009, and enters the contest ranked #9 in the power rankings. The Tigers also received votes in the most recent LSWA Division IV poll, for the first time since making a Class 2A state semifinal appearance in 2021. Victories include Lakeside (14-8), Delhi Charter (50-6), Lincoln Prep (42-20), Arcadia (38-18), and, last week, an impressive 50-0 win over Ringgold.

“There is no question, this will be the best team we have played this year to date,” said Blankenship. “I am confident that we can win, but our guys are going to have to play to their potential. You can’t expect to play a completely error-free game, but we are going to have to limit the amount of penalties and turnovers we make to have a chance.”

In a somewhat surprising fact, considering that JHHS has played football since 1917, this will be the first-ever matchup between the two schools.

“I was surprised to learn we have never played them before,” said Blankenship. “Especially considering the school is only 60 miles away. Hopefully we will get the series off to a good start.”

St. Mary Overview: Primarily running a spread offense or in the Power I formation, St. Mary’s has scored 174 points in six games this season for an average of 29 points per game. According to MaxPreps statistics, the Natchitoches-based school has run the ball 220 times, compared to 129 passing attempts, and is averaging 324 yards per game. John Paul Thibodaux paces their ground game with 652 yards in 107 attempts for a 108.7 yards-per-game average, while also scoring 8 times. His little brother Jacob is next with 357 yards. Preston Tilley calls the signals and has completed 63 of 120 passes for 723 yards and 2 TD’s, with Dennison Morgan being his primary receiver, having caught 24 passes for 307 yards and 3 TD’s. Michael French is also a weapon to be watched with 13 catches for 116 yards, and Brady Childress has 7 receptions for 162 yards for a 23.1 yards-per-catch average, including an 83-yard score. Kane Dorton leads the defense that has given up 111 points for an 18.5 points-per-game average with 43 stops, including 23 solo tackles, with Jacob Thibodaux close behind with 37 stops and a team-leading 4 sacks.

Jonesboro-Hodge Overview: The Tigers counter by having run the ball 141 times and thrown it 69 times more, and are averaging 279.66 yards per game in total offense. While the rushing and passing attempts are almost half as many as St. Mary’s, the stats are somewhat deceiving, as the Tigers have displayed a very strong “quick strike” capability, often scoring their 222 points (37 ppg) in five plays or less. Quarterback King Campbell has completed 36 of 57 passing attempts for 665 yards and 9 scores in just five games. The receiving corps is deep and talented, led by JaMarlon Johnson with 10 catches for 229 yards and 4 TD’s, including tying a school record with 3 against Arcadia. JaQuan Qualls is next with 8 catches for 159 yards and a TD, followed by Channing Gray Jr., who checks in with 7 catches for 111 yards and 4 scores, and Tysen Burks, who has 6 catches for 124 yards and a touchdown. LonTre’vious “Tre” Burns is the leading ground gainer with 563 yards in just 61 carries (9.23 per carry) and 9 touchdowns, while also being very effective as a receiver, having caught 6 passes for 146 yards, for a team-leading 29.20 average. Burns also lead the Tigers defense with 40 stops, including 5 scaks and 7 tackles for a loss, with Reginald Hemphill making 32 tackles. Kodan Atkins and Dylan Hayes check in with 24 and 23 stops, respectively. stops. Tysen Burks leads the team with 4 interceptions, three coming last week, which ties him atop school records for most interceptions in one game.

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Everyone is invited to attend a Public Meeting to discuss new laws and the proposed amendments that will be on the upcoming election ballot, scheduled for 6:00 pm on October 19th at the Boyer Bel Association Building, located at 763 Beech Springs Road in Jonesboro.

The free meeting is being hosted by local civic leader James Bradford, who stresses that the session is not about supporting any candidate for office but is designed only to help keep the public informed about the new laws that went into effect this year and the proposed amendments.

“This is only a public information meeting,” said Bradford. “We will not discuss or allow any candidates to speak.”

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The best Super Late Models around will converge on Super Bee Speedway in Chatham this weekend for the 33rd annual Spooky 50, where racers will go 40 laps for the winning purse of $3,000 on Friday and 50 laps, with $5,000 going to the winner on Saturday. Tuner, Crate Late Model, Limited Modified, and Street Stock racing is on tap as well.

Added to the climactic Saturday racing day is a special Inflatable Costume race on the track during intermission and Jordan Sheppard in concert in the pits after the race, giving fans a tremendous closing gift at no cover charge.

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The administration and faculty of Jonesboro-Hodge High School and Weston High School are pleased to announce their choices for 2026 Students of the Year. These students have demonstrated academic excellence, leadership, character, determination, and a commitment to making a positive impact in our school and community.

Representing Jonesboro-Hodge High School are:
8th Grade – Khaliya Cash
12th Grade – Sanaa Tatum

Representing Weston High School are:
5th Grade – Stetson Kennedy
8th Grade – Amelia Onopa
12th Grade – Kari Gates

By virtue of their selections at their respective schools, each is now eligible to be chosen as Student of the Year in the Jackson Parish School District.

The tremendous season that Jonesboro-Hodge High School has gotten off to this football season was recognized this past week when JHHS head football coach and defensive back Lontrevious “Tre” Burns was selected to represent the East team in the 10th annual Louisiana High School Coaches Association (LHSCA) I-20 Bowl that will be played at 2:00 pm on December 20th at Airline High School Stadium in Bossier City, LA.

Blankenship, now in his school-record 14th season at JHHS, who has led the Tigers to a 5-1 start to the 2026 football season and is now one victory away from tying for most wins by a coach in school history, will be the head coach of the East team.

“Just to be selected to coach in this game alongside the many great team leaders we have in this area is a tremendous honor,” said Blankenship. “I am very grateful and humbled to be chosen to lead the team.”

Burns, who earlier this season was chosen for the inaugural Ironman Award, given by Big Law Media to the player who stars on both offense and defense in a game, was selected to the East team defense after leading JHHS with 40 tackles, 5 sacks (all in one game), and 1 forced fumble.

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The Jackson Parish Ambulance Service District (JPASD) is the proud recipient of the Rural Clinician Credit Bank Award sponsored by the Louisiana Rural Health Transmission Program (RHTP). The award represents a significant investment in the JPASD EMS workforce and communities of Jackson Parish, as it allows for the recruitment and ability to retain Paramedics dedicated to serving the unique needs of a rural community.

The Louisiana Department of Health provides up to $12.7 million through the Rural Clinician Credit Bank as part of a $37.7 million state initiative to recruit and retain rural health care providers. JPASD was one of 53 rural health care providers to be selected out of 136 total applications.

“We are thankful to announce that we are a recipient of this award. Great things are coming to the Jackson Parish Ambulance Service District.” – JPASD administration

Stronger Workforce! Stronger EMS! Stronger Communities!

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The Auburn Tigers have suspended All-American linebacker Xavier Atkins for Saturday’s game against the Georgia Bulldogs, head coach Alex Golesh revealed on Monday through multiple media outlets.

“We’ll keep it in-house. That’ll be the only piece I will be addressing. He won’t be available for us this week for the game,” Golesh said.

Atkins was named to the Preseason All-SEC Team before the season and has arguably been Auburn’s best player this season, recording 37 tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss, 3.0 sacks, one interception, and three quarterback hurries in five games. He has started four of their games, but did not start against Southern Miss due to what was reported as “internal discipline.”

The Jonesboro, LA native who prepped at Jonesboro-Hodge High School and Summer Creek High School in Texas was named a Second-Team All-American and First-Team All-SEC member last year after making 84 tackles, 17.0 tackles for loss, 9.0 sacks, one interception, and two forced fumbles. It was his first season at Auburn after spending his freshman year with the LSU Tigers.

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In a tremendous gesture to feed the souls and bodies of Jackson Parish residents, the youth of Sweetwater Baptist Church in Quitman handed out free Bibles and burgers on October 10th. Spreading the love of Jesus, the caring youth group set up in Fred’s parking lot in Jonesboro and handed out an incredible 400 Bibles and burger meals in a little over two hours, while also praying with many.

“There are so many hurting people in our area,” said a Sweetwater Baptist representative. “We hope they felt the love of Jesus today.”

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Jackson Parish 4-H Director Krisi Bourgeous reminds everyone that the last day to register for Jackson Parish Shooting Sports is October 30th. You must register at the 4-H office in the Charles H. Garrett Community Center, located at 182 Industrial Drive in Jonesboro.

The cost to register is $50.00, which includes a $10.00 4-H enrollment fee and a $40.00 Shooting Sports fee. To be eligible, registrants must also attend two of the three sessions of Orientation, the 1st scheduled practice, and the 2nd scheduled practice.

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