“Kathy’s Walk and Swim”

Dr. Kathryn “Kathy” Sullivan wanted to take a walk, but this was no walk around the block. She wanted to take a 140-mile walk. Let me explain. Kathy’s brother Grant had heard about the planned walk, had applied to be a participant, and encouraged Kathy to apply as well. She was uninterested at first because she wanted to take a seven-mile swim in the Pacific Ocean instead. Kathy disregarded Grant’s suggestion until she saw an advertisement for the upcoming walk in a scientific magazine. Shortly after she applied for the walk, William Ryan of Columbia University offered Kathy the chance to take the seven-mile swim that she had been dreaming of for years. William and Kathy discussed the walk and the swim, and they concluded that Kathy should wait to hear if her application to take the walk was accepted. Williams reassured Kathy that she would have another opportunity to take the swim but the opportunity to take the walk would probably never happen again. Kathy’s wait was worth it. She was invited for a week of interviews, psychological examinations, and physical examinations. Of the large group who were chosen, Kathy was one of six females selected. Grant, Kathy’s brother who had encouraged her to apply, was not selected.

The magazine advertisement I mentioned earlier said women could apply, but many scientists believed that women would be unable to complete such a walk because they were inferior to men. Scientists believed women would require more specialized equipment than men to complete such a walk. Of course, those scientists were mostly men. Kathy was fitted with a special pressurized suit which provided oxygen and blocked out the Sun’s rays. Kathy spent years training for the 140-mile walk which would last just a few hours. On October 11, 1984, 33-year-old Kathy dressed carefully in her specialized clothing which weighed more than she did. Then, she stepped out of the vehicle and began her walk. There were no trees, no sidewalks, nor automobiles on her route. Despite the initial doubts of scientists, she completed the walk without any trouble at all. Kathy made history.

Kathy still wanted to take that seven-mile swim, but it took longer than she had imagined. 36 years after Kathy completed her walk, she finally got the opportunity to take that swim in the Pacific Ocean. Just as she had for her walk, Kathy prepared well and used specialized equipment. On June 8, 2020, sixty-eight-year-old Kathy finally fulfilled her dream and completed the swim that she had dreamed of for decades.

Kathy does not consider herself an adrenaline junkie, but a scientist and explorer. You see, the 140 miles I mentioned was not the distance she traveled on her walk, but the height above the Earth she was when she took her walk. On October 11, 1984, Kathryn Sullivan became the first American woman to take a walk…a spacewalk 140 miles up in space. On June 8, 2020, she became the first woman to swim, well… descend, in a submersible to Challenger Deep in the Mariana Trench, the deepest known point in Earth’s oceans. Kathy is the only woman known to have both walked in space and visited Challenger Deep.

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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

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PUBLIC NOTICE

Jackson Parish School Board Special Called Meeting Minutes
October 8, 2026

The Jackson Parish School Board met in a Special Called meeting at 1:00 p.m. on October 8, 2026 at Jackson Parish School Board, 315 Pershing Highway, Jonesboro, Louisiana.
The following were present for roll call: Mary Saulters, Rick Barlow, Gerry Mims, Wade McBride, Paulette Belton and Dennis Clary
Absent: Calvin Waggoner
Gerry Mims gave the Invocation.
Wade McBride led in the Pledge of Allegiance.
The meeting was called to order by Mary Saulters.
Item 4A was added to the agenda:
Consider compensating Dr. Robin Potts for serving as Interim Superintendent. A quorum was present for this vote.
A motion was made by Rick Barlow, seconded by Gerry Mims and carried to approve the hiring of a part-time employee to train the Business Manager and this person to be Kristi Bass for the same terms approved at Board Meeting held on October 5, 2026. The motion is made to clarify her status.
Motion was made by Dennis Clary, seconded by Paulette Belton and carried to compensate Dr. Robin Potts for serving as Interim Superintendent $2,000.00 per month for additional duties, retroactive to October 1, 2026.
Motion was made by Wade McBride seconded by Rick Barlow and carried to approving to grant Robin Potts permission to approve all expenditures up to $10,000.00 without Board approval.
A motion was made by Dennis Clary, seconded by Paulette Belton and carried to approve Scenario 3 as presented by the Business Manager regarding the FY2026-2027 certificated and support staff stipend supplemental payments to be paid in January, 2027, including allocation amounts directed by the Governor’s Executive Order 26-047.
A motion was made by Rick Barlow, seconded by Wade McBride and carried to adjourn at 1:15 p.m.

Per a statement issued by the Village of Quitman Water System, the Water Boil Advisory that was issued on October 2nd for customers on Bear Knoll Drive is still in place, with hopes that it will be lifted after receiving test results from the Louisiana Department of Health on Tuesday.

The Quitman Water System experienced a leak in the water line crossing the Dugdemona River on Bear Knoll Drive, resulting in a loss of pressure within the distribution system. To isolate the leaking section, the valve on the northeast side of the river was closed. This action interrupted water service to all customers on Bear Knoll Drive southwest of the Dugdemona River.

As a precaution, the Quitman Water System issued a BOIL ADVISORY, effective immediately, for these affected customers. This advisory will remain in effect until the Quitman Water System officially rescinds it.

Affected customers should disinfect water before drinking it, making ice or beverages, brushing teeth, preparing food, or rinsing foods. Bring water to a rolling boil in a clean container and continue boiling for one (1) full minute. Begin timing only after the water reaches a rolling boil. Allow the water to cool before use.

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The first 11 days of October have been especially busy for the Jackson Parish School Board, which, after holding a special called meeting on the 1st of the month, held a second special called meeting on Thursday, October 8th, sandwiching a regularly scheduled meeting on October 5th.

Four items were on this special called meeting agenda, with the first being board members Mary Saulters, Rick Barlow, Gerry Mims, Wade McBride, Paulette Belton, and Dennis Clary agreeing to hire Kristi Bass as a part-time employee to train the Business Manager.

The next item of business was to give Interim Superintendent Robin Potts a $2,000.00 per month raise for additional duties and in a corresponding move, permission to approve all expenditures up to $10,000.00 without Board approval. The final piece of business was approving fiscal year 2026-2027 certificated and support staff stipend supplemental payments to be paid in January 2027, including allocation amounts directed by the Governor’s Executive Order 26-047.

To view the official minutes of the special called meeting visit the Classifieds Section of the Jackson Parish Journal.

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The Jackson Parish Clerk of Court Office reminds you that you can make your voice heard on the November 3rd election ballot beyond candidate choices for local and state offices, as 10 constitutional amendments will be voted on.

In order to help you understand what a vote yes or no on each amendment means, a non-partisan report issued by the Public Affairs Research (PAR) Council click here or visit the following link https://parlouisiana.org/…/guide-to-the…/…

This is NOT an endorsement or disapproval of any amendment by the office of the Jackson Parish Clerk of Court. It simply informs the public what is on the ballot.

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The 2026 Homecoming game between Jonesboro-Hodge and undefeated Ringgold, the District 3-1A opener for both teams, was expected to be a tightly contested football game. It was not! JHHS ran roughshod over their upstart foe, 50-0, the largest margin of victory since a 51-0 win over Bunkie in 2021 and 4th largest in the new millennium.

With the victory, JHHS improved to 5-1 for the first time in head coach Terrance Blankenship’s school-record 14-year tenure and only the second time since 1993, the other being in 2009, and also moved into 9th place in the power ratings. Ringgold, who had won their first four games of the year for the first time in what is believed to be the first time in over 40 years, fell to 4-1 on the year.

JHHS coach Blankenship was pleased that his team not only played well on Friday but also praised the coaching staff for keeping the guys focused on the game, despite the distractions Homecoming always brings.

“I thought our coaching staff did a great job in keeping the team focused during the week, and I was pleased with the way our guys played to our potential during the game,” said Blankenship. “This Ringgold team is not like many of their teams in the past. They have some really good athletes and have the capability to cause lots of problems.”

Record-Setting Performances: While the 36 points scored in the first half and 50 points scored in total did not crack the all-time top ten in either category, an individual single-game performance matched an all-time best, and a team defense mark entered the all-time top ten. With three interceptions, Tysen Burks tied the single-game all-time best, joining Charles Harrell (1977), Stevie Anderson (1987), and Michael Burk (2010). The Tigers’ defense also joined the all-time annals by allowing only 7 passing yards, moving into 6th place for single-game passing yards allowed.

Coaching move paying off! To fill the void left by graduation in the backfield, coach Blankenship moved the team’s leading receiver from a year ago, Lontrevious “Tre” Burns, to running back this year. This has become one of the things Blankenship is best known for over the years, with great success moving tremendous players like Tayvion Tate, Reggie Shallowhorn, and Dakota Knox to new positions. Once again, the Blankenship “move magic” is paying great dividends. With new career highs of 142 yards on just 9 carries and 3 rushing touchdowns, Burns is providing JHHS with a tremendous ground game. In four of the five games played, Burns has rushed for more than 100 yards and has 533 rushing yards, including 9 touchdowns on the ground.

Quick Strikes! Coming on the heels of scoring twice on back-to-back offensive possessions in the second half the week before against Arcadia, the Tiger offense took things to another level on Friday by scoring 6 touchdowns in four plays or less, including 4 scores in just two-play drives. The defense also scored a touchdown on a fumble recovery and return by JaQuan Qualls.

District 3-1A Standings

TEAM	DISTRICT	OVERALL	POINTS	AGAINST
Jonesboro-Hodge	1-0	5-1	222	100
Logansport	1-0	5-1	269	111
Montgomery	1-0	3-3	208	176
St. Mary	0-1	5-1	174	111
Ringgold	0-1	4-1	168	94
Lakeview	0-1	2-4	114	215

JHHS vs Ringgold Game Totals

TEAM	1	2	3	4	FINAL
Jonesboro-Hodge (5-1, 1-0)	16	20	8	6	50
Ringgold (4-1, 0-1)	0	0	0	0	0

Yardstick

	Jonesboro-Hodge	Ringgold
Total Plays	29	57
Total Yards	218	168
Yards Passing	52	7
Yards Rushing	166	161
First Downs	12	10
Third Down Efficiency	1-2	1-10
Fourth Down Efficiency	0-0	0-3
Turnovers	1	4
Penalties-Yards	7-29	10-60

JHHS Individual Offensive Statistics

Passing: King Campbell 4/6-52 yards, 1 TD, 3 2pt conversions
Rushing: Tre Burns 9-142, 3 TD’s, King Cambell 8-28, 2 TD’s, Kingston Bryant 2-12
Receiving: JaMarlon Johnson 1-28, JaQuan Qualls 1-12, 1 TD, Kodan Atkins 1-11, Mason Campbell 1 – (-3)

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The administration and staff of Forest Haven Nursing Home and Rehabilitation Center in Jonesboro cordially invite you to attend the annual Forest Fest, scheduled for 2:00-4:00 pm on October 16th. Come and enjoy the afternoon with the residents and enjoy the always-entertaining costume contest, where the top three, as voted on, will win a prize. Snacks will be provided.

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The Student/Athletes of the Week, an award sponsored by Jackson Parish Hospital, has been announced for October 4-10, and for the first time ever, a representative from Cornerstone Christian Academy has been added to the usual award winners from Jonesboro-Hodge, Quitman, and Weston High Schools.

Award Overview

Sponsor: Jackson Parish Hospital

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

Selection Criteria: Selected by faculty and staff at each institution for providing the best example of 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
October 4-10

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The Quitman Fire District #1 was one of 10 fire departments across Louisiana selected to receive the inaugural 2026 Community Risk Reduction (CRR) Excellence Award from the Louisiana State Fire Marshal’s Office.

The State Fire Marshal’s Office Community Risk Reduction Division announced the award recipients in recognition of departments working to reduce risks and improve fire and life safety in their communities, according to a social media post.

Each of the 10 winning departments received a National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Fire Prevention Week box to support local fire prevention and life safety education initiatives, according to a social media post.

The awards were announced in conjunction with Fire Prevention Week, an annual campaign that encourages communities to take steps to prevent fires and improve safety at home and in public spaces.

The inaugural CRR Excellence Award recognized the following departments:

• Bayou Blue Fire Department
• Bossier Parish Fire District No. 7
• Central Fire Protection District No. 4
• Cotile Volunteer Fire Department
• DeRidder Fire Department
• Lafourche Parish Fire District 3
• Little Caillou Fire Department
• Quitman Fire Department
• Ruby-Kolin/Rapides Fire District No. 7
• St. Tammany Fire District No. 5

The State Fire Marshal’s Office praised the recipients and Louisiana’s broader fire service for their continued work to reduce risks and make communities safer.

Community risk reduction efforts focus on identifying potential hazards and helping residents take steps to prevent emergencies before they occur. Fire departments can support these efforts through public education, fire prevention outreach, and programs that promote safer homes and neighborhoods.

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Quitman High School Cross Country teams went north and south on Saturday, with the varsity team trekking south to compete in the Holy Savior Menard Invitational held in Pineville and the elementary team going north to run in Simsboro.

“It was a busy day for sure,” laughed QHS cross country head coach Cindy Pardue. “We are fortunate to have such a great staff as Jessica Sims, and I went to Pineville, while Macheala Walsworth went with the young ones.”

In varsity competition, the Lady Wolverines placed 2nd, and the boys finished 4th in the 5000-meter, 14-team event held at Buhlow Recreation Park, while the QHS elementary team had five runners finish in the top ten of their respective divisions.

Kaleigh King paced the QHS girls by coming in 9th place among the 41 runners, the highest among “small schools” that competed, followed by Audrina Martin and Anna Pardue, who had top-twenty finishes, coming in 14th and 15th, respectively. Lindsey Woods and Syerra Lewis finished 21st and 22nd, and Emma Thomas placed 33rd.

On the varsity boys’ side, Luke Sims, Josiah Ramsey, and Carson Savana all finished in the top 20, coming in 13th, 16th, and 19th place. Mason Thomas placed 28th, Cooper Roton finished 44th, and Nolan Thomas finished 48th.

At Simsboro, the Quitman Elementary Cross Country team saw five runners finish in the top ten of their respective divisions, with Hadlee Tolar and Katie Futrell achieving the honors in the K-2 girls division and Lex Walsworth doing the same on the K-2 boys side. Emmett Thomas and Matthew Buchan finished in the top ten in the boys 3-4 division. Weston Elementary also had a pair of top-ten finishers in Parker Pardue and Cameron Pardue.

Weston Elementary Top Ten Finishers
Parker Pardue, Cameron Pardue

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Students from the Jonesboro-Hodge, Quitman, and Weston High Schools in the Jackson Parish School District were welcomed by Smurfit Westrock in Hodge for “Manufacturing Day” on October 9th. The tour gave the groups the chance to explore the world of manufacturing, learn about career opportunities, and see firsthand the skills and technology used in today’s workforce.

“We are grateful for community partners like Smurfit Westrock who invest in our students and help prepare them for successful futures!” – Jackson Parish School District

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Cornerstone Christian Academy Volleyball invites you to celebrate “Senior Night” when CCA plays Kingston Academy at 5:00 pm on October 13th, honoring Josie Newton, Kynnedy Newton, and Dane Stevenson.

Newton and Kynnedy have led the Lady Eagles to an impressive 11-3 record in their first year of competition in the Association of Christian Educators League (ACEL). That mark puts them in second place in the north district, which normally qualifies the CCA for the playoffs, but since this is their first year, they are ineligible for postseason play. Stevenson plays for the boys varsity team that is 3-7 this season.

In games played this past week, the CCA varsity girls beat Lake Area Homeschool out of Sulphur, LA , and the boys varsity stopped Midstate Home School from Alexandria. In junior varsity action, CCA won twice, beating Lake and Life Christian Academy, also from Sulphur.

Gracepoint Christian Academy wins!

In its first year fielding an athletic program, Gracepoint Christian Academy has taken its lumps, but the Lady Guardians have shown tremendous resilience and improvement, exemplified by a thrilling five-set victory over Freedom Life Academy in Natchitoches to improve to 3-11 in their first season of ACEL league play. In other games played last week, Gracepoint fell to Old Bethel Christian School, out of Grayson, LA, who has the best record in league play.

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When you walk into the Ag Room at Weston High School, the first thing you notice is all the banners hanging from the ceiling; each represents a placement in a Career Development Event (CDE) in Area or State FFA competition.

The tradition of hanging “Blue Felt” from the rafters continued on October 2nd, when, under the guidance of Director Derek Shields, the WHS FFA Forestry team of Raleigh Guilliams, Aiden Dowd, Nathan Pierce, and Santiago Zuniga took second place at the Area 1 CDE event at Louisiana Tech University.

They earned this result through a strong finish in the CDE, which included tree identification, sawlog measurements, compass and pacing, map reading, equipment, disorders, and wood product identification, which also qualifies these four hard-working students for the State Forestry CDE that will be held on October 29th.

Individually, Pierce, who just a week earlier earned a $1000.00 scholarship as the top point getter at the state 4-H forestry competition, placed second in the contest, and Zuniga was the high-point individual of the combined identification portion of the contest.

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After seven years of dedicated service, K9 Nico has officially retired from the Jackson Parish
Sheriff’s Office (JPSO). Throughout his career, Nico served the JPSO and the citizens of Jackson Parish in several ways, including multiple canine apprehensions, narcotics work, and community outreach.

Most recently, Nico served alongside his handler, Deputy AJ Blundell. The bond between a K9 and handler is a special one, built through training, time spent working together, and trust. JPSO thanks Nico for his service to Jackson Parish and recognizes Deputy Blundell for the time and dedication he has put into their partnership.

Nico has definitely earned the chance to enjoy retirement, with a little more rest, a few extra
treats, and plenty of time off duty.

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The Heritage Quilt Guild (HGQ) of Jonesboro held their regular monthly meeting on Wednesday, October 7th. The session was highlighted by Town of Jonesboro Mayor James “Spike” Harris receiving a Veteran’s Quilt in honor of his two terms of service, one in the United States Marine Corps and another in the United States Air Force.

“I can’t tell you how honored and humbled I am to receive this beautiful Veteran’s Quilt,” said Harris. “I gratefully accept this in the spirit of all the men and women from Jackson Parish and beyond who have worn the uniform and served our country.”

Following, HGQ members submitted all the quilted backpacks to be presented to Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) in December and then held their always enjoyable “Show and Tell” portion of the meeting.

To view all the beautiful creations stitched by these creative and talented ladies, visit the Heritage Quilt Guild of Jonesboro Facebook page. The next HGQ meeting will be at 9:30 am on the first Wednesday of November.

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The Jackson Parish Library has named Nelda Kay “Kai” Shively Maarouf as Artist of the Month for October. Born in Jonesboro in 1949, Maarouf passed away in 2020 at age 70 after becoming a well-known artist across Louisiana for her unique style that focused on and celebrated cultural life.

A graduate of Jonesboro-Hodge High School, the daughter of Louie and Loyce Shively earned a degree at Louisiana Tech University in Ruston before later pursuing graduate studies at the University of Maryland.

Art was the center of Kai’s life. Through painting, she captured beauty, emotion, and imagination, creating works that were exhibited and enjoyed by countless Louisiana residents, allowing her to achieve her dream of having her paintings endure beyond her lifetime.

To see Maarouf’s incredible talent, visit the Jonesboro Branch of the Jackson Parish Library, which has her artwork on display for all to enjoy.

Good Books, Good Friends Book Club
Wednesday, October 14th

Outreach Delivery Services Available

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Attendance Matters! That is the message that the Jackson Parish School District wants students, parents, teachers, and administration to understand. It is so important to be in school every day possible, because success is gained each day school is in session.

The school year has gotten off to a great start for attendance, as three of the four institutions in the Jackson Parish School District had over 95% attendance or better through September, led by Jonesboro-Hodge Elementary at 95.62%. Quitman High School followed at 95.39%, and Weston High School was at 95.26%. Jonesboro-Hodge High School had a 93.47% attendance mark.

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Weston Junior High staked its claim to being the best softball team in Jackson Parish by sweeping a doubleheader against Quitman Junior High, winning 6-1 and 7-1 in the contests played at Quitman High School on October 8th.

Under the direction of Ritchie Tolar, who came out of retirement to lead the team, the Lady Wolves improved to 4-0 in the “Fall Ball” portion of the schedule after two earlier victories over Calvin on October 2nd and 6th. Quitman dropped to 4-3, now having lost 3 of their last 4 after starting the season with 3 straight victories.

Weston 6 Quitman 1 (Game One): Ryan Kate Wyatt limited QJH to just three hits and no earned runs over four innings, while also slapping a double and driving in a run to lead WJH to the opening-game victory. Hannah Aldy also had a big game, reaching base in all three plate appearances with two walks and a hit while also scoring two runs. Kylee-Ayn Allen scored and added a hit, and Leah Atkins scored a run and knocked one in. Miriam Shuler and Cadie Conn also scored for Weston. Elliot Savage smacked a triple and scored for Quitman, who also got hits from Ryleigh McCormick and Charlea Jones.

Weston 7 Quitman 1 (Game Two): A big 5-run second inning, powered by a Cadie Conn three-run triple, her second extra-base hit in two innings, after opening the contest with a double and scoring a run in the first inning, staked WJH to a commanding lead, and Miriam Shuler, who added a hit and a run scored, allowed only one hit and one earned run in the three-inning affair. Leah Atkins (2 RBI) and Kylee-Ayn Allen (RS, RBI, SB) both had two hits, while Carrington Bond scored a run and Kiley Horton scored once and drove in a run. Hannah Aldy also crossed home plate once for the Lady Wolves. Kaylee Horton drove in Maddie Spillman with an RBI single in the bottom of the third inning for Quitman.

Weston Junior High Baseball Splits with Choudrant

Weston Junior High played Choudrant in a doubleheader on October 8th, with the Wolves winning the first game 7-5 before dropping the nightcap 4-2, which evened their record to 3-3 in the “Fall Ball” season.

Game One: Trailing 5-4, Weston scored 3 runs in the top of the fourth and final inning to win the back-and-forth contest. Five straight batters reached base for the Wolves to pace the winning rally, with walks to Remi Davis, Cameron Pardue, and Ashton Paggett sandwiching a hit by Tate Hall and Kaine Stassen getting hit by a pitch. Parker Hightower also reached base on an error. After spotting Choudrant to a two-run lead, the Wolves scored four times in the top of the third when Hightower, Beaux Gandy, and Eli Jones all walked to load the bases, setting up a single by Carter Powell that scored one run and a Brett Rasbury triple that cleared the bases.

Game Two: Weston scored two runs in the top of the final inning, but it wasn’t enough to overcome Choudrant’s four-run lead. Carter Powell and Brett Rasbury got the attempted last-gasp rally started with back-to-back singles, followed by Remi Davis and Tate Hall drawing walks that scored a run and loaded the bases. Cameron Pardue then grounded out, scoring a run, but that was as close as the Wolves would get.

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First Baptist Church in Chatham encourages you to lace up your sneakers to bring immense joy, love, and the message of hope to children all over the world this holiday season by participating in its 1st-ever Track Walkathon, which will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 17th, at the walking track between the Chatham Clinic and the Chatham Branch of the Jackson Parish Library. The goal is to raise $1,600 to completely fund and ship life-changing Operation Christmas Child shoebox gifts.

FRIENDLY COMPETITION: Think you have the most endurance? A prize will be awarded to the walker who completes the most laps in each age category!

SEE WHAT’S INSIDE: An open shoebox gift will be on display right at the track! Stop by to see examples of gifts filled with toys, school supplies, and hygiene items. It’s a wonderful way to see exactly how your steps and donations change lives.

BRING A BUDDY: Even if you aren’t walking, come drop off a small, brand-new stuffed animal at the track! These will go directly into our packed shoeboxes as a special surprise item for a child.

HOW TO JOIN THE FUN:
Whether you want to sign up as a walker or sponsor a participant with a donation, to register, contact Kay Harper by Email at: kayharper64@gmail.com or by sending a text to 318-413-9497

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Dogs I Have Loved and Lost

“Puppy Love is an informal term for feelings of love often felt during childhood and adolescence. It is named for its resemblance to the adoring, worshipful affection that may be felt by a puppy.” (Copied)

I have been on the receiving end of such love for much of my life as a child, teenager and as an adult.

The first vivid memory of a pup involved a bob-tailed pooch named Jody. He wasn’t supposed to have his tail whacked off. That was reserved for breeds like cocker spaniels which we thought Jody was until we learned his mom, a registered cocker, had a fling with a mixed breed mongrel down the street. It was only after he was ours that we knew without a doubt he was only half cocker spaniel. The other half was heaven knows what.

Jody had the makings of a good squirrel dog and was just beginning to tree squirrels when he decided to cross the road in front of a car. The Buick won.

Then there was Bambi, a little bitty doe colored Chihuahua. When Kay and I married, her nine year old daughter, Melissa, was excited to have a pup included in the deal. Bambi grew old, became weak and frail and we had to make the decision no one wants to make. We loved her too much to see her suffer so we did what we had to do. She was no longer in pain but ours was real.

Next to come to our home to live was Trixie. Her arrival was accompanied with a strange set of circumstances. My wife, Kay, was working in an office down town when someone brought
in a matted and dirty little pup that was found wandering the streets and was in dire danger of being run over. Kay’s compassion took over and she brought the little dog home. We cleaned her up, took her to our vet to have her checked out. It was only then that we learned she was a poodle.

We named her Trixie because she told us her name. Not really but as we called out various dog’s names to her, every time we said “Trixie” her ears perked up so someone had named her that or something similar. Trixie it was.

There was not a sweeter little dog in the world than Trixie. For the 10 years or so that we had her, she was warm and cuddly and loving, obviously appreciative of being rescued. Just like Bambi, age and ailments eventually rendered her existence miserable. Once again, we had to make a difficult but necessary decision to ease her pain and misery. Gosh, that hurt to have to do that but we loved her too much to do otherwise.

We waited a year or so before thinking about bringing another puppy into our lives. An ad in the paper described a little Papillion at a kennel and when we arrived, it was love at first sight. There was a tiny fur ball we had to have so we paid the lady, bundled him in a blanket my wife had purchased and brought him home and named him Rufus.

For 16 years, 8 months and five days, he was a vital part of our family, vital to the extent that we spoiled him. Early mornings he had to have a particular treat and at 5:00 in the afternoon, it was his snack bone followed by his daily ride to the park. He was virtually the little boy we never had and we spoiled him rotten.

He began gradually losing his eyesight and hearing and spent most of the day sleeping. Then more serious problems occurred, difficulty in breathing, he was increasingly in distress and once again we knew we had to make that dreaded decision.

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.

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

BUSINESS SERVICES

PUBLIC NOTICE

Jackson Parish School Board Regularly Scheduled Meeting Minutes
October 5, 2026

The Jackson Parish School Board met in a regular scheduled meeting at 11:00 a.m. on October 5, 2026 at Jackson Parish School Board, 315 Pershing Highway, Jonesboro, Louisiana.
The following were present for roll call: Mary Saulters, Rick Barlow, Dennis Clary, Wade McBride, Gerry Mims and Paulette Belton
Absent: Calvin Waggoner
Dennis Clary gave the Invocation.
Paulette Belton led in the Pledge of Allegiance.
The meeting was called to order by Mary Saulters.
A motion was made by Wade McBride, seconded by Gerry Mims and carried to approve the minutes from the Regular Scheduled meetings held on September 14, 2026.
Motion was made by Dennis Clary, seconded by Wade McBride and carried to make the following announcement:
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.
A motion was made by Paulette Belton, seconded by Gerry Mims and carried to approve 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 General Fund.
A motion was made by Dennis Clary, seconded by Rick Barlow and carried to approve the 2026-2027 Pupil Progression Plan.
The Board recognized Justin Dodson from the Jackson Parish Recreation Department who spoke about the use of school facilities for Recreation Basketball.
A motion was made by Rick Barlow, seconded by Dennis Clary and carried to nominate Dr. Robin Potts as Interim Superintendent while Superintendent Carter is on Administrative Leave until the issue is resolved.
Rick Barlow reported to the Board on the meeting of the Executive Finance Committee held prior to the Board meeting.
A motion was made by Dennis Clary, seconded by Paulette Belton and carried to approve for payment the following bills: General Fund, Federal Program, School Food Service, Sales Tax, Special Education and District Maintenance bills.
A motion was made by Gerry Mims, seconded by Paulette Belton and carried approving payment of $32,049.00 to Air Reading for High Dosage Tutoring at Jonesboro Hodge Elementary School, to be paid from High Dosage Tutoring grant. Air Reading is a sole source provider.
A motion was made by Dennis Clary, seconded by Gerry Mims and carried approving the declaring the following items at Weston High School Ag department as surplus:
• Tag #200 – 15″ Planer
• Tag #225 – Lathe Machine
• Tag #199 – Bender
• Tag #226 – Welding Rod Oven
These items are no longer usable and will be disposed of by taking them to a scrap yard.
A motion was made by Wade McBride, seconded by Paulette Belton and carried approving a part-time hourly contract for Kristi Bass to provide training support to the Business Department at a cost of $52.98 per hour (not to exceed 45 hours) plus mileage at the state rate to be paid out of General Fund. This contract will end December 18, 2026.
A motion was made by Paulette Belton, seconded by Rick Barlow and carried approving the purchase of curriculum (Frog Street) for three (3) and four (4) year olds at Union Bee Head Start at a cost of $12,426.70 to be paid from EC PDG Consolidated Grant fund. Frog Street is a sole source provider.
A motion was made by Dennis Clary, seconded by Rick Barlow and carried approving the purchase of an online program to assist with data collection and IEP writing for students with disabilities from GoalBook at a cost of $11,475.00 to be paid from General Fund. Goalbook is a sole source provider.
A motion was made by Dennis Clary, seconded by Paulette Belton and carried approving adopting the resolution granting Bonnie Buckelew permission to sign the State of Louisiana Cooperative Endeavor Agreement for Act 461 of the 2025 Regular Legislative Session in the amount of $150,000.00 for Acquisition, Equipment and Operating Expenses for materials and supplies, as well as labor costs to renovate and enhance the facilities at Jonesboro Hodge High School, Jonesboro Hodge Elementary School and Quitman High School) for and on behalf of the Jackson Parish School Board to finalize the 2025-2026 CEA invoices.
A motion was made by Paulette Belton, seconded by Rick Barlow and carried to give Bonnie Buckelew permission to contact the State of La. Legislators to request a change in the wording of HB 312, Act 961 of the 2026 Regular Legislative Session in the amount of $200,000.00 to (Acquisition, Equipment and Operating Expenses for materials and supplies, as well as labor costs to renovate and enhance the facilities at Jonesboro Hodge High School, Jonesboro Hodge Elementary School and Quitman High School.)
A motion was made by Wade McBride, seconded by Dennis Clary and carried approving a part-time hourly contract for a Speech Therapist at $65.00 per hour not to exceed 8 hours per week, to be paid from General Fund.
A motion was made by Wade McBride, seconded by Dennis Clary and carried approving to acquire two (2) Wal-Mart Pay by Invoice-Trevipay card for Central Office and Special Education Department use with the Business Manager being card holder (with guidelines attached).
Jennifer Colvin, Business Manager presented the Financial Report.
Wade McBride reported to the Board on the meeting of the Building and Grounds Committee held prior to the Board meeting.
A motion was made by Dennis Clary, seconded by Paulette Belton and carried accepting low bid of $13,300.00 for Hot2Cold Heating, AC & Electrical for the three (3) ton Lennox Mini Split for Support Building and 3rd & 4th Grade building hallways at Jonesboro Hodge Elementary School, to be paid from Jonesboro Hodge District funds.
A discussion was held regarding the request from the Boys and Girls Clubs of North Louisiana concerning the use of school facilities. The board agreed to form a committee to negotiate a policy for Use of School facilities.
A discussion was held regarding the request from Jackson Parish Recreation Department concerning the use of school facilities. The board agreed to form a committee to negotiate a policy for Use of School facilities.
A motion was made by Gerry Mims, seconded by Rick Barlow and carried to accept low bid of $177,000.00 from Albritton Service Company for lighting and electrical upgrades at Weston High School Baseball and Softball fields, to be paid from Weston District funds (CEA Act 3 of 2026 RLS).
A motion was made by Dennis Clary, seconded by Rick Barlow and carried to adjourn at 11:25 a.m.

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

PUBLIC NOTICE

Jackson Parish School Board Special Called Meeting Minutes
October 8, 2026

The Jackson Parish School Board met in a Special Called meeting at 1:00 p.m. on October 8, 2026 at Jackson Parish School Board, 315 Pershing Highway, Jonesboro, Louisiana.
The following were present for roll call: Mary Saulters, Rick Barlow, Gerry Mims, Wade McBride, Paulette Belton and Dennis Clary
Absent: Calvin Waggoner
Gerry Mims gave the Invocation.
Wade McBride led in the Pledge of Allegiance.
The meeting was called to order by Mary Saulters.
Item 4A was added to the agenda:
Consider compensating Dr. Robin Potts for serving as Interim Superintendent. A quorum was present for this vote.
A motion was made by Rick Barlow, seconded by Gerry Mims and carried to approve the hiring of a part-time employee to train the Business Manager and this person to be Kristi Bass for the same terms approved at Board Meeting held on October 5, 2026. The motion is made to clarify her status.
Motion was made by Dennis Clary, seconded by Paulette Belton and carried to compensate Dr. Robin Potts for serving as Interim Superintendent $2,000.00 per month for additional duties, retroactive to October 1, 2026.
Motion was made by Wade McBride seconded by Rick Barlow and carried to approving to grant Robin Potts permission to approve all expenditures up to $10,000.00 without Board approval.
A motion was made by Dennis Clary, seconded by Paulette Belton and carried to approve Scenario 3 as presented by the Business Manager regarding the FY2026-2027 certificated and support staff stipend supplemental payments to be paid in January, 2027, including allocation amounts directed by the Governor’s Executive Order 26-047.
A motion was made by Rick Barlow, seconded by Wade McBride and carried to adjourn at 1:15 p.m.

William “Billy” Ray Peters
July 11, 1928 – October 10, 2026

Billy Ray Peters passed away on Saturday, October 10, 2026, at Forest Haven Nursing Home in Jonesboro, Louisiana, at the remarkable age of 98. Billy Ray was a hardworking and dedicated man who took great pride in his work. He began his career with Louisiana Power and Light, where he worked for several years before becoming an electrician at Continental Can Company, dedicating over 40 years of faithful service to the company.

When he wasn’t working, Billy Ray enjoyed spending time outdoors, especially fishing and playing golf. He was also an accomplished wood-worker. Billy Ray was an avid LSU football fan who loved cheering on his Tigers. Above all, Billy Ray cherished his family, and nothing brought him greater happiness than spending time with his grandchildren. The memories made with them were among his greatest treasures and will remain a lasting part of his legacy.

Billy Ray is survived by his wife, Billie Jo (McBride) Peters; son, Mike “Pete” Peters and his wife, Carla; daughter, Kathy (Peters) Price and her husband, Pat; step-son, Michael Kramer and his wife, Lynn; step-son, Bruce Kramer; step-daughter, Holly Kramer; 12 grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren; 8 great-great-grandchildren; brother, Delwin Peters and his wife, Edna; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, William Isom Peters; mother, Ruth Leola (Griffin) Peters; mother of his children, Billie Ruth Scoggins; grandson, T.K. Spillers; step-son, Homer Kramer; 3 brothers; and 5 sisters.

Friends may visit with the family on Monday, October 12, 2026 at Southern-Edmonds Funeral Home Chapel in Jonesboro from 12:00 PM until 2:00 PM. The funeral service will begin at 2:00 PM in the chapel with Bro. Wayne Morrow officiating. Burial will follow in Ebenezer Cemetery near Weston under the direction of Southern-Edmonds Funeral Home.

Serving as pallbearers will be Bobby Tidwell, Lyman Hall, Michael McDonald, DeWayne Price and Eli Stevenson. Honorary Pallbearers will be Mike Brown and Burl Brashear, Jr.

The family would like to offer a special thanks to Forest Haven Nursing Home and ACG Hospice for their excellent care.

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Per Jackson Parish Police Jury Ordinance 05-0825-2011 1, Fire Chief Philip Brown, President of the
Jackson Parish Fire Chiefs Association hereby declares a BURN BAN for the Parish of Jackson.
Any temporary burn ban so imposed by the President of the Jackson Parish Fire Chiefs Association shall prohibit ALL outdoor burning until such time as the Fire Chief determines that the weather conditions are safe enough to cancel the burn ban.

This burn ban becomes effective immediately. It SHALL remain in effect until canceled.

This Ordinance SHALL NOT apply to prescribed burns by the La. Department of Agriculture and Forestry, by those trained and certified by the Department of Agriculture and Forestry, or by those who conduct prescribed burning as a “generally accepted agriculture practice” as defined by the Louisiana Right to Farm Law (R.S. 3:3601 et seq.).

Violation of this burn ban may result in a fine and/or 6 months in jail

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