The Jackson Parish Council on the Aging is conducting a membership drive and invites the citizens of Jackson Parish to join. The membership drive began on May 14, 2026, and will end on May 21, 2026. Membership is free and open to any resident of Jackson Parish over the age of 18. To join, please call the Jackson Council on the Aging office at (318) 259-8962 to request an application.
The Jackson Council on the Aging Annual Membership Meeting is scheduled to take place on Thursday, June 4, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. at the Robert Riddle Senior Center, located at 120 Polk Avenue in Jonesboro, LA.
At the meeting, Board Members will be elected, and the annual report will be reported to the membership committee. Following the membership meeting, the Jackson Council on the Aging will hold its annual meeting with all members, and participants are urged to attend.
Southern States Equipment 10 Big Bear Enterprise 2 SSE Scoring: Caston Zimmerman 3, Thatcher Savage 3, Mason Tolar 2, Carter Greer-Kelley, Hunter Williams BBE Scoring: Grant Griffin, Klay Roge’
Jackson Parish Journal 10 Barksdale Federal Credit Union 3 JPJ Scoring: Emerson Maricelli 2, Koplen Taylor 2, Jaxen Culpepper 2, Brett Rasbury, Clay Burton, Ryder, Sean Sandifer BFCU Scoring: Aiden Reed, Jase Reed, James Lewis
(After seeing lots of buzzards lately, here’s a chapter from my book “Fathers, Sons and Old Guns” that triggered a memory.)
If ever there was a creature on God’s green earth that runs the gauntlet from good to bad to ugly, it has to be the vulture, or what most of us call the buzzard.
First the good. I have enjoyed sitting in my warm cozy home on a cold windy day and watching buzzards seemingly having the time of their lives. If you haven’t done so lately, sit and watch how graceful these big birds are riding the wind currents, drifting so eloquently with the breeze. Effortlessly drifting with the wind, a sudden change in altitude and direction seems second nature these majestic birds. They are fun to watch.
Buzzards are also known for cleaning up road kill and carcasses of dead animals. They provide us a service in doing this because nobody wants to have to endure the stink of something dead rotting away of its own accord. Buzzards not only enjoy the feast but when several are gathered, a carcass can be reduced to bare bones quickly.
In our part of the world, the largest buzzard is the turkey vulture. With a wing span of near six feet, the bald head and reddish face are characteristic. The flight of the turkey vulture is more graceful than that of its cousin, the black vulture which is easily recognized not only in their smaller size but when you watch one fly, wing beats are more rapid and the tail is shorter than the turkey vulture.
Both species are known for excellent eyesight with an uncanny sense of smell. This brings to mind when once I brought home a sack full of collard greens and my wife insisted that I cook them outside so I set up my cooker on the driveway a few feet from the house.
As the greens began cooking with steam rising, I noticed moving shadows along and over the driveway. Half a dozen buzzards were circling overhead, apparently mistaking the aroma of my collard greens for a road killed possum. Pointing out this interesting activity to my wife, she opted for a sandwich for lunch.
Now for the bad. Buzzards seek out sheltered areas for nesting, hollow logs or cavities. They also love to nest in vacated deer stands when the unthinking hunter leaves a window open on his box stand after season ends.
Before season opened one year, I went out to check my stand, one in which I had carelessly neglected to secure a window and I don’t have to tell you what I found. Although my sense of smell is not as acute as that of a buzzard, I began picking up unsavory whiffs of stink before I got to the stand.
Fearing the worse, I climbed the ladder and opened the door and to make a long stinky story short, the mess that a nest of buzzards had left in the stand meant a cleaning job I never want to have to repeat.
Now let’s talk about the ugly. As graceful as buzzards are when they are airborne, getting a close-up view of a buzzard withdrawing its head from the inner portions of a three-day-old road-killed deer is a sight you want to divert your children’s attention away from. Bald, reddish with a beak designed for doing what it does, is a sight you’d like to soon forget.
I learned another interesting fact about buzzards. Groups of different species of animals and birds are given names. A flock of geese, a herd of elephants, a sounder of feral pigs, for example.
With the current political climate being what it is, it may be somewhat appropriate when naming a bunch of buzzards. Whoever came up with their name years ago was a visionary. They are called a “committee”. A committee of buzzards.
”Buzzards can be good, can be bad, but always quite ugly.” Courtesy photo
FISHING REPORT
CANEY LAKE – Bass have moved deep. Soft plastics and cranks baits are working best. Crappie are around the deeper tops and are hitting jigs and shiners. Bream are on shallow beds and hitting small spinners, crickets and worms. 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 around the brush hitting shiner or jigs. Bass are best flipping the trees with soft plastics. Fake frogs are working early and late. The bream bite is going on in the shallows. For latest information, contact the Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707. OUACHITA RIVER – Water level down because of lock and dam problems down stream. Fishing overall is slow. For latest information, contact the Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707. LAKE D’ARBONNE – Bass have moved to secondary points and hitting square bills, spinners and soft plastics. Crappie are in 10-12 foot water and hitting jigs and shiners. The bream are on the beds and biting crickets and small spinners. Lots of catfish are being caught on red wigglers and night crawlers 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 around deep brush and jigs and shiners picking up some. Bass have moved out to deeper water around secondary points. Soft plastics and crank baits are picking up some. Night fishing should be improving. Bream are on the shallow beds and hitting worms and crickets. For latest information, call Kel’s Cove at 927-2264 or Terzia Tackle at 278-4498. LAKE YUCATAN – The water is on slow fall. Except for catfish caught on trotlines and buffalo caught in nets nothing else is biting; water still too cold. For info call Surplus City Landing at 318/467-2259.
Several years ago, a radio station in San Francisco conducted a non-scientific listener survey. Sixty-eight percent of the people surveyed were for it. Twenty percent were against it. The remaining twelve percent had no opinion on the matter. So the radio station concluded from this non-scientific survey that the vast majority were in favor of it.
The funny part is that the radio station never asked a question. It was an illustration of the bandwagon effect. If you get enough people walking down South Trenton Street in the same direction at nearly the same time, a parade is likely to break out.
I could go on one of my rants about people not thinking critically about political, educational, existential, or spiritual matters — but I won’t.
I will say this: you need to read more than just the headlines on the website. You need to read the article. And you need to read more than one verse of the Bible if you want the whole picture.
We often form opinions based on emotion rather than actually thinking something through. (I know — shocking.)
I talk about this because when people find out I’m a minister, they usually ask a question that goes something like this: “Do Methodists believe in drinking wine and playing cards at the dance held on Sunday afternoon at the movie theater?”
This is not a serious question, but the ones people ask me are just as funny. When someone asks me about a specific “sin,” I usually ask them what they think. You might be surprised to know that people are looking for direction and validation in their lives.
I’m amused that they mostly want to know if I’m AGAINST the same things they’re against. Often, in seeking direction and validation for our spiritual position, we join a church where people “think like we do.”
Non-church folks define the congregation of Trinity Methodist in two ways: by who attends our church, and by what we are AGAINST. I have a list of jokes to prove my point, but space doesn’t allow me to share them. (You’re welcome.)
In church life, the bandwagon is joined as much for what a church is against as for what the church believes. But do you really want anyone defining you by what you’re against?
Now here’s what I want you to hear — and I want you to hear it louder than any bandwagon rolling down the street. I am FOR YOU.
I believe God loves you just the way you are — not the “improved,” “cleaned up,” “Sunday best” version of you, but the real you, the one who sometimes burns the biscuits, loses their patience, and wonders if they’re getting any of this right.
You don’t have to do one single thing to earn God’s love. Not one. I believe God wants the best for you — and your “best” doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s. God loves you so much that He sent Jesus into the world to show us that love with skin on.
And if you’ve never heard anyone say this plainly, let me be the first: you matter, you are loved, and heaven is not rolling its eyes at you. God is not waiting for you to get your act together — God is already cheering for you, believing in you, and walking with you.
To have Public / Legal Notices, Business Services, Job Opportunities, Items for sale, and Wanted to Buy, Items published – send an email to: jpjjacksonla@gmail.com or call 318-480-1206. Possible costs are dependent on the content.
SHERIFF’S SALE
PARISH OF JACKSON STATE OF LOUISIANA
Traina Development Corporation #37954 Shedrick Green III
By virtue of a Writ of Seizure and Sale issued out of the Honorable Second Judicial District Court, Parish of Jackson, State of Louisiana, and to me directed, I have seized and taken into my possession and will offer for sale for cash at the principal front door of the JACKSON PARISH SHERIFF’S OFFICE, Jonesboro, Louisiana, on Wednesday, the 20TH day of MAY, 2026. Between the hours governing judicial sales, the following property, to wit:
LOT 36, UNIT 10, BOOKER T. WASHINGTON SUBDIVISION, JONESBORO, LA 71251
Seized as the property of the above-named defendant and will be sold to satisfy said Writ and all costs, sale to be made for cash WITHOUT the benefit of appraisal.
Brent Barnett, Sheriff Ex-Officio Auctioneer
4/8/26 5/13/26
SHERIFF SALE
PARISH OF JACKSON STATE OF LOUISIANA
NEWREZLLC, ETAL #38063 GWENDOLYN HINTON
By virtue of a Writ of Seizure and Sale issued out of the Honorable Second Judicial District Court, Parish of Jackson, State of Louisiana, and to me directed, I have seized and taken into my possession and will offer for sale for cash at the principal front door of the JACKSON PARISH SHERIFF’S OFFICE, Jonesboro, Louisiana, on Wednesday, the 27TH day of MAY, 2026. Between the hours governing judicial sales, the following property, to wit:
LOT 8 OF BLOCK 18 OF THE VILLAGE AND/OR TOWN OF HODGE, LOUISIANA, AS PER PLAT AND MAP THEREOF ON FILE AND OF RECORD IN THE OFFICE OF THE CLERK OF COURT OF JACKSON PARISH, LOUISIANA. WHICH HAS THE ADDRESS OF 917 ELM STREET, HODGE, LA 71247
Seized as the property of the above-named defendant and will be sold to satisfy said Writ and all costs, sale to be made for cash WITHOUT the benefit of appraisal.
PEOPLE’S BANK vs #38083 BILLY RAY WOOD ESTATE & CLAUDIA SUE TEMPLE
By virtue of a Writ of Seizure and Sale issued out of the Honorable Second Judicial District Court, Parish of Jackson, State of Louisiana, and to me directed, I have seized and taken into my possession and will offer for sale for cash at the JACKSON PARISH SHERIFF’S OFFICE, Jonesboro, Louisiana, on Wednesday, the 3rd day of JUNE, 2026, Between the hours governing judicial sales, the following property to wit:
TRACT #6: COMMENCING AT AN EXISTING CONCRETE MONUMENT AT THE SE COR OF THE SE OF NW OF SEC-13-15-2-WEST, JACKSON PARISH, LA.; THENCE RUN N 88 DEG. TO 35’W ALONG THE 1/4 SECTION LINE FOR A DISTANCE OF 429.31′ TO A 1/2″ IRON ROD FOR THE STARTING POINT; FROM SAID STARTING POINT; THENCE RUN N 88 DEG. 35′ W ALONG THE 1/4 SECTION LINE FOR A DISTANCE OF 167.00′ OF A 1/2″ RE-BAR; THENCE, LEAVING THE 1/4 SECTION LINE, RUN N 38 DEG. 39′ W FOR A DISTANCE OF 321.98′ TO A 1/2″ IRON ROD; THENCE RUN N 22 DEG. 49′ W FOR A DISTANCE OF 300.00′ TO A POINT IN THE CENTERLINE OF LOUISIANA HWY #4; THENCE RUN N 68 DEG. 27′ E ALONG SAID CENTERLINE FOR A DISTANCE OF 198.55′ TO A POINT; THENCE, LEAVING SAID CENTERLINE, RUN S 22 DEG. 49′ E FOR A DISTANCE OF 300.00′ TO A 1/2″ IRON ROD; THENCE RUN S 29 DEG. 11′ E FOR A DISTANCE OF 376.23′ BACK TO THE POB, CONTAINING 2.68 ACRES.
Which has the municipal address of 9500 Hwy 4, Chatham, LA 71226
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 the benefit of appraisal.
Brent Barnett, SHERIFF EX-OFFICIO, AUCTIONEER
4/22/26 5/27/26
SHERIFF SALE
PARISH OF JACKSON STATE OF LOUISIANA
PEOPLE’S BANK #38083A BILLY WOOD ESTATE & CLAUDIA SUE TEMPLE
By virtue of a Writ of Seizure and Sale issued out of the Honorable Second Judicial District Court, Parish of Jackson, State of Louisiana, and to me directed, I have seized and taken into my possession and will offer for sale for cash at the JACKSON PARISH SHERIFF’S OFFICE, Jonesboro, Louisiana, on Wednesday, the 3rd day of JUNE, 2026. Between the hours governing judicial sales, the following property, to wit:
COMMENCING AT THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF THE NW 1/4 OF THE SW 1/4, SECTION 36, TOWNSHIP 16 NORTH, RANGE 1 WEST, THENCE RUN WEST 518 FEET PARALLEL WITH THE NORTH LINE OF FORTY FOR A POINT OF BEGINNING; THENCE RUN SOUTH 460 FEET PARALLEL WITH THE EAST LINE SAID FORTY; THENCE RUN WEST 142 FEET PARALLEL WITH THE NORTH LINE OF SAID FORTY; THENCE RUN NORTH 460 FEET PARALLEL WITH THE EAST LINE OF SAID FORTY; THENCE FUN EAST 142 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING, CONTAINING 1 1/2 ACRES, MORE OR LESS, TOGETHER WITH ALL IMPROVEMENTS AND APPURTENANCES LOCATED THEREON AND BELONGING THERETO, SITUATED IN JACKSON PARISH, LOUISIANA
Which has the municipal address of 225 Charles Estes Road, Eros, LA 71238
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 the benefit of appraisal.
William Claude “WC” Cottingham October 10, 1937 – May 13, 2026
Willie Claudie “WC” Cottingham was born on October 10, 1937, in Liberty Hill, Louisiana, to the late Mrs. Carrie Cottingham and Mr. Claudie Cottingham. He was preceded in death by his sister, Annie Louise Cottingham-Garner, and is survived by his sister, Virginia Matthews of Hodge, Louisiana.
A dedicated and hardworking man, WC attended Bienville Parish Schools and graduated from Shady Grove High School in 1956. He married the late Maxine Cottingham in 1961, sharing a life filled with love and laughter.
WC’s career began at the Saw Mill in Dodson, and he later worked as a Woodyard Operator at the Hodge Paper Mill from 1975 until his retirement in 2009. He also worked seasonally for the Town of Hodge and, more recently, for the Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office until his medical leave in February 2026.
A man of faith, WC’s love for Christ was nurtured at Sand Hill Baptist Church, where he was a dedicated member until his passing. His strong faith and love for the Lord guided him throughout his life.
Outside of work, WC enjoyed outdoor activities such as mowing the lawn, working on DIY house projects, working on his vehicles, hanging Christmas lights, and fishing—his favorite pastime.
He leaves behind a legacy of laughter, love, and cherished memories to his family and friends, including Virginia Matthews, Cedrick Garner, Reginald Garner, Onteryl Mason-Garner, Colander Garner, Jenna Garner, Danielle Copeland, Cham Thompson, Rylee Austin, Sherry Copeland, Taylor Harris, Justin Harris, Cameron Harris, Dai Garner, Ron Garner, Brenda Mallard, Lawanda Traxler, Sonya Garner-Sykes, Monica Matthews, the late Willie “Billy” Garner, Tyrone Jones, Cherly Williams, Toya Jones, Nalaei Nagawo, and a host of cousins and friends.
The Homecoming Celebration will take place from 9:00 – 11:00 am on Tuesday, May 19th, at Sand Hill Baptist Church, located at 730 Sand Hill Road in Quitman, LA. The Life Celebration service, officiated by Reverend Don Calloway and Pastors Bently Williams, Austin Ballott III, and Craig Jenkins, will follow. Interment will be at the Sand Hill Baptist Church Cemetery under the direction of Paradise Funeral Home in Jonesboro.
Pallbearers will be Josh Traxler, Kevin Traxler, Shannon Lard, and Gerry Mims, with Lonnie Houston, Johnny Winston, and Chuncy Mason as Honorary Pallbearers.
Horace Alvin Lee Jr. December 3, 1969 – May 5, 2026
Horace Alvin Lee Jr. went to be with the Lord on May 5, 2026, at the age of 56 years old. A Memorial Service was held on Saturday, May 16th, at the Chapel of the Paradise Funeral Home in Jonesboro.
By virtue of the authority vested by the constitution of the laws of the state of Louisiana, Sheriff Brent Barnett will sell by public auction the property that is owed delinquent taxes, at the Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office, 150 Old Winnfield Rd., Jonesboro, LA, beginning at 10 o’clock a.m. on the day of May 13, 2026, and continuing on each succeeding legal day, until the auction is completed.
Jackson Parish Sheriff Barnett will issue in favor of the winning bidder and record in the mortgage records a tax lien certificate to all immovable property on which taxes are now due to Jackson Parish Sheriff & Ex-Officio Tax Collector to enforce collection of taxes assessed in the year 2025 together with interest thereon from January 1, 2026 at the rate not to exceed one percent (1%) per month on a non-compounding basis until paid and all costs. The auction will be for cash or other payment method acceptable to the tax collector, in legal tender money of the United States.
At anytime prior to the institution of an action to enforce the tax lien certificate, the tax lien certificate may be terminated by paying the price paid at auction together with interest at the rate established at the tax auction, which shall not exceed one percent (1%) per month on a noncompounding basis computed on the amount paid at auction by the tax lien certificate purchaser until terminated, a penalty at the rate of five percent (5%), and costs reimbursable pursuant to R.S. 47:2156. The termination payment shall also include the amount of any subsequent parish and municipal statutory impositions paid by the tax lien certificate holder, together with the applicable five percent (5%) penalty and any applicable interest computed on the statutory impositions at a rate of one percent (1%) per month on a noncompounding basis.
The names of the delinquent tax debtors, the amount of statutory impositions due, and the immovable property assessed to each for which a tax lien certificate will be issued are listed in the Classifieds Section of this edition of the Jackson Parish Journal.
Early voting has now ended, and on May 16th, 2026, local residents will go to the polls to make their choices for the U.S. Senator from Louisiana, Public Service Commissioner District 5, Jackson Parish Sheriff, and Jackson Parish Clerk of Court, along with Constitutional Amendments and the Jackson Parish Law Enforcement Tax Renewal.
For the first time, choices for the federal elections will be made through Closed Party Primaries, meaning Democrats will vote a Democratic ballot, Republicans will vote a Republican ballot, and all No Party registrants can choose to affiliate by declaration (signed at the polls or at early voting) with either party to vote or remain unaffiliated! It is important to know that the Closed Party voting requirement only affects the federal elections and has no bearing on the local elections for Jackson Parish Sheriff and Clerk of Court
To view your sample ballot for a listing of those running for federal and local offices, Constitutional Amendments, and the Jackson Parish Law Enforcement Tax Renewal Referendum, click here or go to the Louisiana Secretary of State website at: www.geauxvote.com
Sample Ballot Regarding Local Elections
Sample Ballot of Louisiana Constitutional Amendments
The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development advises motorists that on Saturday, May 16th, and Sunday, May 17th, a section of LA 146 in Jackson Parish will be closed to through traffic. The road closure was originally scheduled for May 9th, but due to inclement weather, the project had to be rescheduled.
The closure area is located approximately 2.0 miles northwest of the intersection with LA 4 and is necessary to replace a cross-drain pipe that is compromising the roadway’s integrity.
DOTD reminds motorists to NEVER drive around ‘road closed’ barricades at any time for any reason.
Restrictions/Permits:
Total road closure at the specified location. All vehicles will need to utilize an alternate route.
Alternate Route:
Detour signage will be in place.
This work will be performed WEATHER PERMITTING.
Safety reminder:
DOTD appreciates your patience and reminds you to please drive with caution through the construction site and be on the lookout for work crews and their equipment.
Area residents should exercise caution when driving, walking, or biking near an active construction zone.
Additional information:
Call 511, visit www.511la.org, or download the Louisiana 511 mobile app for additional information. Out-of-state travelers may call 1-888-ROAD-511 (1-888-762-3511). Motorists may also monitor the LA DOTD website at www.dotd.la.gov, by selecting MyDOTD, or by visiting the DOTD Facebook and Twitter pages.
The Village of Chatham reminds residents of the utility cut-off and collection policy that is in place. It is further noted that all requirements of this and all policies and procedures that are set forth by the Mayor and Town Council are to be followed as stated.
Village of Chatham Utility Cut-Off and Collection Policy
Utility bills for the Village of Chatham are mailed by the last day of the month and are due by the close of business on the 20th of the following month. If the 20th falls on a weekend or a holiday, bills are due on the next full business day.
After the 20th, a 10% penalty will be assessed.
The cutoff date for bills that are 30 days past due will be 15 days after the 20th of the month, unless it falls on a weekend or holiday, in which case it will be the next full business day. The Village of Chatham shall cease to serve the customer until the bill is paid in full, including any applicable penalties and connection fees.
THERE WILL BE NO EXTENSION AND NO SECOND NOTICE GIVEN!
If inclement weather prevents cut-offs from being done on the cut-off date, they will be done on the next business day.
On the cut-off day (the 15th day after the 20th), the Utility Department will run a disconnect report showing accounts with a past-due balance. Service technicians will be sent to the service address of those with a past-due bill to disconnect service. The current disconnection charge will be added to the account. Once the service technician(s) leave the office with the list, the total bill plus the current disconnect fee will become due even if utilities are not physically turned off and locked.
Once service technicians receive the disconnect list, they will follow these procedures:
Go to the residence or business, turn off and lock the meter. Record the meter reading and note it on the disconnect form.
If the meter cannot be locked, note it on the disconnect form so the clerk can create a work order to replace the meter.
Technician(s) are to have no interaction with the customer. If a customer attempts interaction, the technician is instructed to inform the customer that they must call City Hall.
Technicians shall not take money from any customer.
The technician is to return the disconnect form to the Utility Department.
Once the utilities have been turned off, they will not be turned back on until the entire bill (current and past-due) plus reconnect fees is paid. Customers will have until the end of the month to get utilities reconnected. At the end of the month, during the billing cycle, the account will be finalized, and deposits will be pulled and applied to the bill. The customer is responsible for any amount due to the Village of Chatham. At this point, to get utilities turned back on, the customer must pay the remaining balance and deposits.
Any account with an unpaid balance 30 days after deposits are pulled will be sent to collections. If a customer’s account is sent to collections and they wish to have services reconnected, they must pay the collection agency IN FULL (including agency fees), a reconnect fee, and new deposits.
Utilities will only be turned back on during regular business hours (Monday-Thursday 8:00 am-4:00 pm and Friday 8:00 am – 12:00 pm). NO UTILITIES WILL BE TURNED ON AFTER HOURS.
Weston lost to Pitkin 2-1 in the Class B semi-finals to end the year with a 23-13 record
Weston High School fell to top-ranked Pitkin 2-1 in a thrilling but heartbreaking championship-caliber contest on Thursday at the LHSAA Class B baseball state tournament played at McMurry Park in Sulfur, LA.
The 4th straight loss in the semi-final round of the state tournament and third loss to Pitkin this year, ended the District 1B champion Wolves’ season with a 23-13 record. Defending state champion Pitkin, who is the #1 seed in the 20-team Class B bracket, improves to 19-5 on the year and continues to the finals that will be played Wednesday, May 13th, against #2 seed Glenmore, which advanced by beating #3 Family Community 3-0.
No losers! While one team was eliminated and the other moved on, there were really no losers in the well-played contest between the two teams, only one team that executed more perfectly than the other. Both teams executed on offense when opportunities arose and performed brilliantly in the field, with neither team committing an error.
Pitchers Duel! Fans were treated to a tremendous pitching duel between Bryce Tolar of Weston and Gage James of Pitkin, with neither allowing any extra base hits. For five innings, Tolar kept Pitkin at bay by limiting the defending Class B champions to just a second-inning single, while after giving up three hits and a run in the first inning that gave Weston a 1-0 lead, Gage James struck out 8 and allowed only two more hits the rest of the way for the complete game victory.
Bryce Tolar gave up only one hit and no runs over five innings
Good Start! In the battle billed as a contest between Weston’s powerful offense and Pitkin’s stingy defense, early on, it looked like Weston’s batters would have their way. Ty Henderson got things started when, on the second pitch of the game, he hit a ground ball single through the left side of the infield, leading to Jase Borders reaching base after getting hit by a pitch. Drew Browning then hit a sharp single to right field that advanced Henderson to third, but Borders was called out following a perfect relay throw from the outfield to second base, leaving Weston with runners at the corners. Colton Blundell then followed with a hit that scored Henderson to give Weston a quick 1-0 lead after four batters had come to the plate, all getting on base. Pitkin pitcher Gage then settled down to get two quick outs, leaving Weston with two runners on base.
Small ball! Gavin Holt led off the bottom of the sixth inning with a base hit for Pitkin, only the second hit of the game off of Tolar, who had pitched superbly in the tense, pressure-packed contest. Having started only two games prior and tossing just 25 innings all season, WHS head coach Joey Kemp sensed that Tolar was tiring and summoned to the mound Weston ace Ty Henderson, who had started and thrown the most innings for the Wolves during the season. Holt advanced to second on a wild pitch, and, recognizing the importance of moving the runner over, Pitkin head coach J.C. Holt called for a sacrifice bunt, which Kash Wisby perfectly executed, putting Holt on third base with just one out. Attempting to simply score the run, Holt called for another bunt that Lincon Stephens laid down perfectly for a base hit, tying the game. After Hendeson walked, Kemp then called Liam Weaver to the mound, who gave up an infield single to load the bases, but then stood firm to force a groundout and end the inning.
Walk-off win! Weaver opened the top of the final frame with a single but was left stranded on base, leading to Wyett Sasser coaxing a walk for Pitkin, and advancing to second on the third bunt in the last two innings. WHS coach Kemp then called for Holt to be intentionally walked, setting up what would be a force out at any base, but Wilsby spoiled the smart decision by hitting a single up the middle, which scored Sasser and gave Pitkin the “walk-off” win.
After several weeks of being closed for a complete renovation, Murphy Oil USA has reopened at its 182 Old Winnfield Road location in Jonesboro, LA. The upgrade is a boon for local residents, who, instead of doing business at an outdoor kiosk-style operation, will now enjoy the benefits of a fully enclosed convenience store modeled after other modern Murphy Oil locations across the nation.
Since its inception in 1996, Murphy USA has become one of the largest independent retailers of gasoline products and convenience store merchandise, with more than 1,700 locations in 27 states across the Southeast, Southwest, Midwest, and Northeast United States.
In an effort to honor the outstanding educators who toil tirelessly to give students in the Jackson Parish school system the best education possible, the Jackson Parish School District (JPSD) is pleased to continue the weekly educator recognition program, “Who We Are Wednesday.”
Each Wednesday, one of the JPSD faculty members is selected for their tremendous commitment, dedication, and excellence in the classroom, which helps our local youth prepare for their future endeavors. This week, Alberta Foster, a dedicated Business Teacher at Jonesboro-Hodge High School, who has served Jackson Parish Schools for seven years, is recognized.
Mrs. Foster brings real-world relevance into her classroom, helping students connect what they learn to life beyond school. She especially enjoys those moments when business concepts suddenly make sense—when students realize how these ideas show up in the world around them.
One of the most memorable accomplishments in her career was being named High School Teacher of the Year, a recognition that reflects her commitment to her students and her craft.
Mrs. Foster credits Mrs. Alma Hobdy as a teacher who made a lasting impact on her life and educational journey. If she weren’t in education, she would be an entrepreneur, owning and running her own business. Outside of school, she enjoys traveling and exploring new places.
Join the Jackson Parish School District in celebrating Alberta Foster and the impact she makes at Jonesboro-Hodge High School!
The Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce that Plunkett Cooling and Heating LLC has been selected as “Business of the Month” for May. Serving residents and businesses of Jackson Parish and the surrounding area, owner Nick Martinez and staff provide heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and appliance repair services.
Located at 430 4th Street in Jonesboro, LA, the hours of operation are 8:30 am – 4:00 pm Monday – Friday and 9:00 am – 12:00 pm on Sunday. To schedule an appointment, call 318-259-6622.
Each week during the school year, the Jackson Parish Hospital presents an outstanding student-athlete from Jonesboro-Hodge, Quitman, and Weston High School of the Jackson Parish School District with the Student/Athlete of the Week Award. Each recipient is chosen by a select group of faculty and staff from the representative institutions for their academic and athletic achievements and receives a special Jackson Parish Hospital Athlete of the Week t-shirt.
Earning accolades the week of May 3-9, 2026:
Ty Henderson – Senior on the Weston High School baseball team Kinsley Ponder – Sophomore on the Quitman High School softball team MaKiaya Cadet – Sophomore on the Jonesboro-Hodge High School girls track team
Join the Jackson Parish Hospital and the Jackson Parish Journal in congratulating and applauding these student/athletes for their commitment, dedication, and achievements in the classroom, as well as their outstanding athletic endeavors!
Student-Athlete of the Week Slideshow
(to view pictures of each Student/Athlete of the Week, click arrows on right or left)
Great news for bass fishermen! The Jackson Parish Waterway Commission is pleased to announce that the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) has introduced 100,000 Florida Bass fingerlings into Caney Lake and another 3,200 at Chatham Lake.
On May 5th, 50,000 fingerlings were put in at Ebenezer Launch and Fishing Pier, with another 50,000 added at the east boat launch of Jimmie Davis State Park. Chatham Lake received the 3,200 fingerlings on April 16th.
According to LDWF statistics, 3-10% of the fingerlings are estimated to reach spawning age. The program’s intent is to maintain a high level of Florida Strain Genetics that produces the large bass for which Caney Lake is recognized, and to increase the population at Chatham Lake.
The Jackson Parish Waterway Commission thanks the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries and its stocking programs for helping Jackson Parish remain known as a “mecca of bass fishing” in Louisiana and across the nation.
The Jackson Parish Council on the Aging is conducting a membership drive and invites the citizens of Jackson Parish to join. The membership drive begins on May 14, 2026, and will end on May 21, 2026. Membership is free and open to any resident of Jackson Parish over the age of 18. To join, please call the Jackson Council on the Aging office at (318) 259-8962 to request an application.
The Jackson Council on the Aging Annual Membership Meeting is scheduled to take place on Thursday, June 4, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. at the Robert Riddle Senior Center, located at 120 Polk Avenue in Jonesboro, LA.
At the meeting, Board Members will be elected, and the annual report will be reported to the membership committee. Following the membership meeting, the Jackson Council on the Aging will hold its annual meeting with all members, and participants are urged to attend.
As your Sheriff, I am a part of this community, and I believe the Sheriff’s Office is strongest when it works alongside the people of this parish and all those who serve it in different ways every day.
Every day, deputies interact with the public in a wide range of situations. How those interactions are handled matters. Professionalism, respect, and clear communication build trust and strengthen relationships over time.
We are working hard to maintain a presence throughout the parish, not only by responding to calls but also by being involved in schools, community programs, and public safety efforts. Our School Resource Officers work closely with students and staff. Our Senior Citizens Patrol helps maintain contact with elderly residents across the parish. We also continue efforts to keep our parish clean through litter crews working along parish and state roads.
This parish is also strengthened by people who work hard every day in many different roles. That includes our local police departments, fire departments, the Jackson Parish Ambulance Service, the Jackson Parish Hospital, the Jackson Parish Council on Aging, our local churches, businesses, schools, and so many citizens who quietly give their time and effort to serve others.
Much of the volunteer work that helps hold this parish together is done by hardworking men and women from all walks of life. Many of them have been the same people showing up for years, often with little recognition. They do it because they truly care about the people of this parish.
Public safety and community well-being are shared responsibilities. Citizens who stay engaged, report concerns, support one another, and work alongside law enforcement and others who serve this parish play an important role in keeping Jackson Parish safe and strong.
I am committed to making sure citizens have access to clear and accurate information about how this office operates. Listening to concerns and maintaining open lines of communication strengthens both accountability and trust.
I also believe in opening avenues for community involvement. We will continue to provide training, outreach, and opportunities that enable citizens to engage, learn, and better protect themselves, their families, and their neighbors.
Trust is built through consistent action. Fair enforcement of the law, professional conduct, reliable service, and strong community partnerships must be the standard every day. We will uphold the law with confidence and integrity, and when mistakes are made, I will take ownership and do what I can to make them right.
As we move forward, my focus is on strengthening what is already in place while continuing to improve how we serve this parish. That means evaluating operations, improving communication, and building stronger connections across Jackson Parish.
My goal is not only to respond when needed, but to ensure this office remains connected to the people it serves and continues to support the safety, stability, and quality of life in our parish.
The people of this parish are what make Jackson Parish great, and I will never lose sight of how important that partnership is to the future of this office and this community.
Respecting the “status quo” in the Clerk of Court’s office isn’t about resisting change — it’s about respecting the law, the process, and the people we serve.
The truth is simple: the Clerk’s office is governed by state law. The procedures are already established. The responsibilities are clearly defined. And the margin for error is zero.
Every record, every filing, every election duty must be handled the right way, every single time. That consistency is what protects the integrity of our courts and the trust of our community.
The truth is, the “status quo” is what keeps the system working.
On Election Day, choose experience. Choose stability. Choose someone ready on Day One.
Vote #52 Rachel Shively for Jackson Parish Clerk of Court.
On Wednesday, May 13th, Shawn Murphy State Farm Insurance Agency, located at 826 Pershing Hwy. in Jonesboro, will pay respect to those who have served our country by celebrating Military Appreciation Day.
Proud to support our military, and in an effort to say thank you for the courage, dedication, and commitment to keeping America safe, Shawn and staff invite all current members and veterans of the U. S. Armed Services to come by and enjoy coffee and donuts during normal business hours, 8:30 am – 5:00 pm.
Quarter 2 of the 2026 Community Photography Contest is officially open! The Jackson Parish Hospital is looking for beautiful local photos that capture the spirit and charm of our community – from scenic landscapes and familiar landmarks to meaningful everyday moments.
• Four winning photos will be selected this quarter. • Winners are paid $250 for the copyright of each photo that meets the guidelines. • There is no limit to the number of entries that can be submitted. • Entries roll over to the next quarter if not selected!
Do you or someone you know have an eye for the beauty of our community? Tag them here so that they don’t miss this opportunity to showcase their talent and the place that we call home! No cost to enter. Terms and conditions apply. Submit your photos by clicking here or by going to https://bit.ly/4rlmjdk
Bridgett Wallace has been selected as the May Artist of the Month by the Jackson Parish Library. With a deep passion for all forms of art, Bridgett has been creating art since the age of seven. Through self-teaching and relentless practice, she has continually improved her skills, believing that perseverance is the way to success.
The Jackson Parish resident also enjoys playing video games, proving that creativity can coexist with other interests and exemplifying the message that anyone can engage in artistic expression while appreciating various art forms.
During the month of May, Bridgett’s wonderful art creations can be viewed at the Main Branch of the Jackson Parish Library, located at 614 South Polk Avenue in Jonesboro.
Party Bayou Rentals 16 Jonesboro State Bank 3 PBR Scoring: Koda Broomfield 3, Jackson Palmer 3, Jude Jones 2, Kohen Stokes 2, Waylon Vines 2, Wyatt Maxwell 2, Hudson Turner, Harlan Gilbert JSB Scoring: Alex Martin, Bradley Howard, Mason Otwell
Age 11-13 Softball
Guiin Machine 17 Barksdale Federal Credit Union 13 GM Scoring: Lizzie Sullivan 3, Scarlett Parks 2, Addie Anderson 2, Ava Cutwright 2, Charlee Mauthe 2, Ainsley Bougues 2, Maggie Guin 2, Emily Bolyer, Annalee Love BFCU Scoring: Leah Atkins 3, Delilah Hudson 2, Dakota Marker 2, Aubrie Allen 2, Adelyn Fine, Jacey Long, Jessie Walker, Khaliya Cash
Age 9-10 Softball
Dodson Enterprise 11 Jonesboro State Bank 1 DE Scoring: Malia Gunter 2, Karli Bradford 2, Natalie Sullivan 2, Eddy Lott 2, Laniyah White, Nyla Johnson, Hlary Foster JSB Scoring: Gracelynn Greer
Lady Law Dawgs 12 Jonesboro State Bank 8 LLD Scoring: Ryleigh Puffer 2, Kylee Allen 2, River Waggoner 2, Kadence Sampey 2, Harlei McCardie, Londyn Tilley, Madison Baker, Katelyn Smith JSB Scoring: Caylee Mauthe 2, Kaylee Hammons 2, Mercedes Taylor 2, Matilyn Otwell, Brenleigh Whitman
Age 7-8 Softball
Rook ADS 14 Guin Machine 13 RADS Scoring: Caroline Hand 3, Merritt Flower 3, Margot Shuler 2, Eva Martin 2, Ava Kohler, EK Maxwell, Lily Potts, Kenzie Billman GM Scoring: Milly Guin 3, Paisleigh Owens 3, Westlynn Sanford 2, Rosalie Williams, Whitely Antee, Emery Hester, Aniston Nealy, Aniston Williams
Rook ADS 13 The Spott 6 RADS Scoring: Merritt Flower 3, Eva Martin 3, Caroline Hand 2, Margot Shuler 2, Ava Kohler, EK Maxwell, Kenzie Billman TS Scoring: Rey Wiggins 2, Parker Kate Long, Klark Lowery, Taelyn Boston, Emma Magee
Age 6U Softball
Listle Real Estate 12 Dodson Enterprise 11 LRE Scoring: Henley Buckelew 2, Chandler Thomas 2, Stella Whitman 2, Hazel, Navaeh Caldwell, Zella Thomas, Mellie Roberson DE Scoring: Landry Atkins 3, Amara Wilson 3, Avery Dodson 2, Lou Audrey Hall, Ledger Weeks, Dallas Taylor
