Colby Bowman Announces Candidacy for 2nd Judicial District Attorney in Jackson, Bienville, and Claiborne Parishes

Colby Bowman, a lifelong Jackson Parish resident and experienced attorney, announces his candidacy for District Attorney of the 2nd Judicial District. Bowman vows to restore integrity, enforce accountability, and put public safety first while maintaining an open-door policy long forgotten within the prosecutor’s office.

Bowman has served as an attorney for ten years since earning his Juris Doctorate from Southern University in Baton Rouge. He is the only candidate in the race actively practicing in all three parishes and with experience covering the full scope of the responsibilities of the District Attorney.

This unparalleled experience is matched by Bowman’s strong work ethic. He said, “Our community needs fresh leadership that is tirelessly committed to public safety. Families in our community deserve safe streets, and our law enforcement officers deserve a true collaborative partner in the District Attorney’s seat. Our system doesn’t work if our agencies don’t work together.”

He continued, “Justice is not being served in our neighborhoods under the status quo. Trials are being lost, dangerous narcotics are infiltrating our neighborhoods and criminals are walking free – just to leave our children in harm’s way. I pledge a new era of leadership and accountability that will keep our streets safer and prevent violent crime.“ As your District Attorney, I will relentlessly pursue solutions to the troubling waves of crime being committed by young adults and even minors. I have zero tolerance for violence between and against our children.  I will force unconcerned parents to answer for their children’s truancy from school. This will narrow the gateway that leads to crime at earlier ages, keeping more young people on the pathway to success,” Bowman said.

Bowman’s extensive experience, knowledge, and relationships within the narcotics enforcement community make him uniquely qualified to serve as District Attorney. “I’m not just an attorney. I’ve lost clients and friends far too early, seeing first-hand the worst of the cancer spread by drugs, violence, and abuse in our communities. We cannot be complacent with burying our children.”   

Beyond his legal career, Bowman serves as a volunteer firefighter with two departments, serving as the vice chairman of his local fire board. He routinely volunteers legal services to various boards and public entities. For five years he has taught Louisiana Tech University students, instilling practical skills and ethical leadership. Additionally, Bowman is a member of Masonic Lodge # 280 of Jonesboro.

Bowman and his wife, Lauren Dark Bowman, a registered nurse, are raising two daughters – Connor Wren (1) and Ava (15) and enjoy spending time outdoors and engaging in community life.

Colby Bowman invites all residents committed to justice, accountability, and public safety to support his campaign to revitalize the DA’s office and ensure a stronger, safer 2nd Judicial District.

Contact:

Colby Bowman
318-259-6200
colby@bowman.law

Facebook: Colby Bowman for District Attorney
http://www.ColbyBowmanForDA.com

Paid for by Friends of Colby L. Bowman


UPDATE: Schools Closure Update

UPDATE

 All jackson parish schools closed till Monday.

All Jackson Parish Rec Dept. Youth Basketball Games Scheduled for Saturday have been cancelled. 

Winter Storm claims life of Jackson Parish man.

The state Department of Health confirmed that on Wednesday, a 65-year-old man from the Quitman area in Jackson Parish was found dead in his home, apparently having succumed from hypothermia after losing power at his home. 

No further information is available at this point.

 
Original – Wednesday, January 28, 2026
Per information provided by Jonesboro School District (JPSD) Superintendent William “Billy” Carter, all JPSD schools will remain closed on Wednesday, January 28th. Further instructions regarding whether schools will be closed on Thursday, January 28th and/or Friday, January 29th will be provided at a later time. Also, it is reported that Gracepoint Christian Academy in Jonesboro will be closed on Wednesday, January 28th and Thursday, January 29th. No report given for Cornerstone Christian Academy.
 
For college students that travel daily to Louisiana Tech University and Grambling State University (GSU), both schools will remain closed thru Thursday, January 29th but GSU will hold virtual classes during those days. The University of Louisiana-Monroe (ULM) and Louisiana Delta Community College at the Jonesboro campus announces that the schools will remain closed Wednesday, Thursday and Friday (January 28-30)

Roads Conditions in Jackson Parish

As of 5:00 pm on Tuesday, January 27th the only situation regarding a road or bridge that will be closed on Wednesday, January 28th is the train track overpass on South Hudson Avenue, just past Gracepoint Christian Academy. 
 
Per Jackson Parish Police Jury Road Superintendent, Wayne Anderson, all parish roads and bridges are open but motorists are advised that in some less traveled areas traffic may be down to one lane and that bridges may possibly have ice on them during the early morning hours due to temperatures dropping below the freezing point again Tuesday night so caution is advised while traveling over all bridges. Remember: Never hit your brakes on a bridge!

Locations with Gas and/or Propane

Due to many residents of Jackson Parish currently suffering from being without power, there has been an overwhelming rush on gasoline and propane, causing several locations to run out of fuel. 
 
As of Tuesday evening, the following area locations that have reported having gasoline and/or propane still available are: 
 
Gasoline:
J J’ Fast Stop – 314 East Main Street, Jonesboro, LA 
Wooly’s One Stop – Hwy 167 South, Jonesboro, LA
McCartney Oil Company – 401 Hudson Ave, Jonesboro, LA
 
Propane:
Pardue Builders Supply – 705 South Hudson, Jonesboro, LA
 
NOTE: Other locations in Jackson Parish may have gasoline and/or propane by Wednesday, January 28th. You are advised to check with locations for more information. 

UPDATE: Hunter Alexander in much better shape

At 1:00 pm on Tuesday, January 27th, Daren Alexander, the father of Hunter Alexander, gave an update on Hunter Alexander, the Quitman High School graduate and current Lineman for Entergy of Louisiana, who was severely injured while assisting Jackson Parish residents during the recent ice storm.
 
Update provided on Daren Alexander Facebook page:
 
Update….when I got to hospital this am the receptionist said… “He’s been walking up and down the hall”.  He got the nurse to put his bed out n hallway so he could talk to people. 
Pain level was sorta high last night and he didn’t get a whole lot of sleep. 
His CK level is down to 21,000 and continues to trend down. All his other labs look good  His catheter was removed (I’m sure several of yall will get the “Hunter” version of that ordeal. Intake and output are good.  Wound vacs doing what they are intended to do
He is scheduled 1/29 to return to surgery to see how wounds look and to see if there is any more tissue that needs to be removed. 
Fingers are still pink and he continues to have movement. 
He will prob stay in surgical ICU for couple of days. 
PT and OT came this am and did an assessment and said he doesn’t need any therapy at this time… his therapy will come later … mainly OT as part of rehab
He figured out a way to hold his spoon and ate all of his eggs this am…. Remains independent as always 
Overall, he was in good spirits…laughing with staff. 
He said to tell everyone thank you for everything!
 
For those who are not familiar with what took place, Alexander, whose mother is Christi Permenter of Hodge, LA is a Lineman for Entergy Corp. While performing duties to help Jackson Parish residents during the ice storm, he was seriously injured. After being taken to the emergency room of North Louisiana Medical Center in Ruston, he was later airlifted to LSU Medical Center in Shreveport, where he underwent immediate surgery and is now recovering. 
 
GoFundMe account in the name of Hunter Alexander and also a PRAYERS FOR HUNTER fundraiser has been established.  Any donations are greatly appreciated and all are asked to keep Hunter in your prayers

Garbage Pickup Schedule for Town of Jonesboro

The Town of Jonesboro Sanitation Department has issued the trash pickup schedule for the remaining of the week as shown below. 
 
Wednesday, January 28th – All trash that is normally picked up on the Monday and Tuesday garbage routes. Thursday, January 29th – All trash that is normally picked up on the Wednesday and Thursday garbage routes.
 
Residents are asked to have their trash receptacles by the curb for ease of pickup. Your patience and cooperation is great appreciated as the delays caused by the ice storm is navigated. 

High School and Youth Basketball League Schedule Update

At present, all local high school basketball games scheduled to be played on Thursday and Friday evenings and Youth Basketball League games that are set for Saturday morning are still expected to be held, depending on any further negative developments pertaining to the recent ice storm. 
 
High School Basketball Schedule
 
Thursday, January 29th
Weston vs Simsboro – District 1B
 
Friday, January 30th:
Jonesboro-Hodge vs Haynesville – District 1-1A
Quitman vs Castor – District 1B
Saline vs Summerfield – District 1C
 
NOTE: Girls games tip off at 6:00 pm followed by boys contests
 
Youth League Basketball Schedule 
Game of Saturday, January 31st
 
Jonesboro-Hodge Middle School Gym
9:00 am: MLC vs Warriors (5-6 age group)
9:45 am: Tigers vs Bulls (5-6 (age group)
10:30 am: Lakers vs Dolphins (7-9- Girls)
11:15 am: Mustangs vs Sparks (7-9 girls)
12:00 pm: Magic vs Pelicans (7-8 boys)
12:45 pm: Nets vs Lakers (7-8 boys)
 
Jonesboro-Hodge High School Girls Gym
9:00 am: Bulls vs Pelicans (9-10 boys)
9:45 am: Magic vs Thunder (9-10 boys)
 
Jonesboro-Hodge High School Boys Gym
9:00 am: Pelicans vs Spurs (13-14 boys)
9:45 am: Lakers vs Tar Heels (13-14 boys)
10:30 am: Bucks vs Lakers (10-12 boys)
11.15 am: Pelicans vs Warriors (10-12 boys)
12:00 pm: Fever vs Bobcats (11-13 girls)
12:45 pm: Wings vs Sparks (11-13 girls)
 

Jonesboro City Court Scheduled for Wednesday Cancelled

Town of Jonesboro Mayor J. “Spike” Harris has announced that the Jonesboro City Court proceedings that was scheduled for Wednesday, January 28th has been cancelled due to ongoing weather conditions. 
 
City Court will reconvene on Tuesday, February 25, 2026 at the Town of Jonesboro City Hall, located at128 Allen Avenue in Jonesboro. 
 
If you have questions about City Court, please call you are instructed to call 318-259-5025 or to the Jonesboro Police Department at:318-259-5026.
 
Please note that City Hall will remain open for regular business tomorrow, January 28, 2026.  .
“Thank you for your patience and understanding as we continue to prioritize the safety of our community. We will continue to share updates as needed.” – Mayor J. Spike Harris

Local Doctor’s Offices and Clinics to be CLOSED on Wednesday, January 28th

According to reports received from the doctor’s offices and clinics in the Jackson Parish Hospital medical system and Mercy Medical Center in Jonesboro, all rural health clinics and doctors offices will remain closed on Wednesday, January 28th due to continuing weather related conditions. 
 
Report issued by Jackson Parish Hospital: 
 
Due to the ongoing hazardous conditions, following this weekend’s ice storm, Jackson Parish Hospital’s rural health clinics will be remain closed Wednesday, January 28th, 2026. This includes Jonesboro Family Care Clinic, Chatham Medical Clinic, and Jackson Parish Hospital Family Care Clinic. Our clinic staff members are in the process of contacting patients and rescheduling appointments. Efforts to contact each patient impacted by this closure will continue. If you have not been contacted about rescheduling your appointment, prior to Thursday, please contact us after 8am on Thursday, January 29th, 2026. Our clinic’s phone numbers are listed below: Thank you for your patience and understanding. We hope you are staying safe and warm during this winter-weather event.
Jackson Parish Hospital Family Care Clinic: (318)-395-2121. Jonesboro Family Care Clinic: (318)-395-2366. Chatham Medical Clinic: (318)-249-3200.
 
Report Issued by Mercy Medical Health Center
 
Due to continued hazardous travel conditions, all Mercy Medical Health Center and Mercy Medicine facilities will be closed on Wednesday, January 28th.Your safety and the safety of our employees is our top priority. Keep an eye out for updates regarding the status of our facilities. We’ll post any future closure or delay information as soon as it’s available.

Ponderings

If you grew up in the 1960s, you remember that nightly public service announcement that came on right before the late news: “It’s 10 PM. Do you know where your children are?”

Of course, our parents didn’t know where we were. It was the 60s. Half the time we didn’t know where we were. Childhood back then was a free range, unsupervised, loosely organized adventure involving bicycles with no helmets, creeks with questionable water quality, and a general understanding that you should be home “before dark,” which could mean anything from 5:30 PM to the next morning depending on the season and your mother’s mood.

Today’s parents track their children with GPS, Bluetooth, satellite imaging, and—if necessary—a drone. In the 60s, the only tracking device was your mother’s voice hollering your name across three neighborhoods like a foghorn powered by righteous indignation. And somehow, that worked.

Back then, if you told your mom, you were “going outside,” that was considered a complete itinerary. No one asked follow up questions. No one needed a permission slip. You could be building a treehouse, digging a hole to China, or accidentally setting something on fire. As long as you came home eventually and didn’t bleed on the carpet, you were considered a successful child.

And yet, for all the differences between then and now, one thing hasn’t changed: every generation has to figure out life—and faith—for themselves.
My generation grew up with three TV channels, rotary phones, and the theological certainty that if you ran in church, God would personally trip you. Today’s kids grow up with smartphones, streaming services, and the ability to Google “Why does my pastor say that?” during the sermon. (Please don’t tell me if you’ve done this.)

But here’s the truth: faith has never been something you inherit like your grandmother’s casserole dish. Each generation has to discover Christ anew—sometimes in ways that surprise the generation before them. And the church, if it wants to stay alive and not become the spiritual equivalent of lukewarm leftovers, has to let the Holy Spirit shape it into a living, breathing, organic body of Christ—not a museum of how things used to be.

The kids who grew up hearing “It’s 10 PM—do you know where your children are?” are now grandparents watching their own grandkids navigate a world we couldn’t have imagined. And just like our parents trusted us to find our way home before dark, we can trust that God is guiding this new generation toward their own encounter with grace.
So the next time you worry about “kids these days,” remember: our parents survived us.

And God, who has been faithful through every generation—from rotary phones to TikTok—will be faithful still.

And if you’re reading this after 10 PM, don’t worry. God knows where His children are. Always has. Always will.


Assistant District Attorney Colvin Running for DA

Jim Colvin

Assistant District Attorney Jim Colvin is running for Second Judicial District Attorney now that current DA Danny Newell will be retiring. The Second Judicial District includes Bienville, Claiborne, and Jackson parishes.

Jim is a Ruston High School graduate who played college baseball at Hill Junior College before earning his BA in history from Louisiana Tech University in 1989. Jim married his college sweetheart, Laura John of Monroe, before leaving north Louisiana for graduate school in New Orleans in 1989.

For more than three decades, Jim Colvin has successfully litigated cases across Louisiana. This success and the working relationships he has established with law enforcement in the Second Judicial District and across our state are invaluable to success in the courtroom.

Since returning to the courtroom after COVID, Assistant District Attorney Colvin has tried multiple felony jury trials and has won unanimous verdicts of conviction in each.

In addition to his success in the courtroom, Colvin’s business success in managing multiple offices and employees is an indispensable administrative advantage that he brings to the position of District Attorney.

By law, a DA provides civil representation to local governmental boards and elected officials. For more than thirty-two years, Colvin has provided highly effective legal representation to sheriffs, local public boards and commissions, and town councils—not only locally but all over the State of Louisiana.

Currently, Jim Colvin represents the Claiborne Parish Sheriff, Sam Dowies, the E-911 Claiborne Parish Communications District, Claiborne Parish Hospital Service District #3, Claiborne Memorial Medical Center, the Bienville Parish Hospital Service District #2, the Bienville Family Clinic, Grant Parish Sheriff Steve McCain, Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff Gerald Sticker, Franklin Parish Sheriff David Rigdon, East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff Sid Gautreaux, Rapides Parish Sheriff Mark Wood, East Feliciana Parish Sheriff Jeff Travis, West Feliciana Parish Sheriff Brian Spillman, Acadia Parish Sheriff K.P. Gibson, Ascension Parish Sheriff Bobby Webre, and the Bossier Parish Police Jury.

Colvin previously represented the Town of Homer, the Town of Haynesville, the Town of Sarepta, the Town of Grambling, the Town of Athens, the Town of Richwood, the Town of Springhill, and Claiborne Electric.

He attended Loyola University School of Law, where he earned honors as a member of Loyola’s Moot Court Board. He graduated from Loyola in 1992 and became a member of the Louisiana State Bar Association that same year.

Jim and Laura live in Homer, Louisiana where they raised their three children, Jack, Hannah, and Ben. They also have two grandchildren.


How Credit Unions are Draining Louisiana Communities

Paid Editorial Feature – The views expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of the Journal.

Last month, OnPath Federal Credit Union agreed to buy Heritage Bank of St. Tammany in Covington, Louisiana, a century-old institution with deep local roots. The deal was hailed by OnPath CEO Jared Freeman, who praised Heritage’s “unwavering commitment to the local community.” But what Freeman failed to mention is that the acquisition will rob that community of a critical source of revenue.

Because OnPath is a credit union and thus tax-exempt, the deal means that St. Tammany Parish will lose a reliable stream of tax payments. Those dollars help fund schools, pay essential public servants like police officers and firefighters, and support other vital public services across the parish. Once the acquisition is finalized, that revenue will disappear, and the burden of making up the difference will fall squarely on the shoulders of local taxpayers.

The example of OnPath in Louisiana illustrates a much bigger problem across the country: credit unions are no longer the small, member-focused institutions they were established to be. Many have grown into large financial operations, similar to banks, all while enjoying tax-exempt status. Lawmakers must investigate whether credit unions’ tax-exempt status is still necessary in light of their significant growth, which is ultimately leaching revenue from state and local governments and setting the stage for higher taxes on local communities.

The situation in Louisiana is not the first. Texas Dow Employees Credit Union (TDECU) had planned to acquire Sabine Bank and Trust, which is based in Many, Louisiana. Although TDECU ultimately backed away from the acquisition, it underscores the fact that credit unions have strayed far from the original mission Congress envisioned when it exempted them from most federal, state, and local taxes under the Federal Credit Union Act. It’s time for Congress to revisit whether the tax breaks are still justified.

Credit unions like TDECU have grown into large financial institutions by leveraging taxpayer subsidies. Far from its founding mission to serve the residents of Lake Jackson, Texas, TDECU now serves over 380,000 members across the state. Ending 2024 with $4.8 billion in total assets, TDECU’s services have widened to include wealth management investment products through its partnership with LPL Financial, which they even acknowledge as being a conflict of interest. The growth doesn’t stop there. Credit unions are buying community banks at a time when bank consolidation and burdensome regulations are putting extreme pressure on banks’ bottom lines. The current regulatory environment and credit union acquisitions are exacerbating bank consolidation. In fact, data from the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) shows that the number of community banks dropped by 46% over the last two decades, falling from 7,620 in 2003 to 4,129 in 2023. Credit unions are thriving, and skirting taxes while community banks are getting squeezed.

One negative outcome of tax-exempt credit unions acquiring community banks is that local and state governments lose revenue. This essential tax revenue helps fund local schools, projects, and infrastructure. The state of Louisiana has a bank shares tax that funds local communities, but when a credit union acquires a bank, it eliminates that source of revenue and results in less funding for local services. The shortfall in revenue could compel a parish to raise taxes on households to maintain a balanced budget. According to the Tax Foundation, “since 2011, more than 100 credit union–bank acquisition deals have been announced across the country.” Credit unions get to grow and avoid paying taxes, while American households across the country are getting forced to foot the bill at the end of the day.

Americans expect transparency, safeguards, and a level playing field from banks. These same principles should apply to credit unions. This is not about eliminating credit unions; it is about accountability and ensuring the law matches credit unions’ behavior. In an era where credit unions operate more like large financial institutions and less like community-oriented lenders, Congress should conduct oversight hearings and reexamine whether their tax-exempt status still aligns with their actions today. Louisiana taxpayers, in towns like Many and Covington, and in parishes around the state, should not have to pay more taxes because the law, as currently written, allows credit unions to exploit their tax loophole.

Ken Hale is the President & Chief Executive Officer of BOM Bank


Publication to resume on Wednesday, August 20, 2025

Due to unforeseen problems with the internet being knocked out due to damage caused by the storm on Thursday evening the Jackson Parish Journal will not be able to be published Sunday, August 17th.

Technicians are scheduled to make repairs on Monday, August 18th so publication of the Jackson Parish Journal is expected to resume on Wednesday, August 20.

Thank you for you patience and understanding while this issue gets resolved.


BOIL ADVISORY LIFTED: Chatham Water System

Chatham Water System
PWS ID# 1049004
Jackson Parish, Louisiana
August 14, 2025
For Immediate Release

The boil advisory issued by the Chatham Water System on August 8, 2025, has been lifted.
After a Boil Water Advisory is lifted, it is advised that you flush your pipes.

• Begin with sink faucet on the lowest floor.

• Slowly open the cold water sink faucet. Opening slowly allows for the release of trapped air and may reduce the banging noise, known as a “water hammer” that can occur when water flow and pressure
changes as a result of water main repair work.

• Repeat on each floor, moving from lowest to highest, only opening cold water sink faucets.
• Once the water runs clear, usually in 5 minutes or less, turn off faucets in the same order, lowest to highest.

• You should also flush your refrigerator’s water lines.

• Customers and businesses should also dispose of stored water, drinks, or ice made since the Boil Water Advisory. The next three batches of ice should also be thrown out. Ice maker containers should be wiped clean with a solution of two tablespoons of bleach to one gallon of water.

Gregory C. Harris, Mayor
Village of Chatham

Guide to 75th Annual Peach Festival Weekend

Your Guide to Peach Festival Weekend

The 75th Annual Louisiana Peach Festival will take place on June 7, 2025, but the peach celebrations will be going all week long in Ruston, LA!  If you’re planning to spend a full weekend soaking in the sweet peachy charm of Ruston, let this guide help you make the most out of your adventure.

Friday, June 6

Eat:

From June 2-7, enjoy Peach Culinary Crawl, a weeklong tasting tour featuring over 20 local restaurants. Each participating location will offer special peach-inspired items. From peach BBQ and burgers to peach toast, cocktails, and desserts. There’s something to satisfy every craving. The full Culinary Crawl menu is available in late May on the Peach Fest website. 

See:

In celebration of the festival’s 75th anniversary, The Louisiana Peach Festival is collaborating with the Lincoln Parish Museum to present Peach Fest Through the DecadesThis special exhibit will showcase memorabilia from the very first Peach Festival all the way through present day.

  • Peach fest hack: After visiting the exhibit, explore downtown Ruston to scope out the festival grounds and snap a picture at one of the colorful murals!

Experience: There’s plenty to experience Friday before the festival. 

  • Take a stroll through Downtown Ruston and browse the Peach Sidewalk Sale. Participating downtown shops will be offering peachy deals and special promotions from June 2-6. 
    • Peach Fest Hack: Grab a Peach Fest fit at the sidewalk sale to wear at the festival!
  • The Peach Parade is a long loved and cherished tradition by festival attendees. The parade will take place in Downtown Ruston on Friday, June 6, at 6PM.
  • After the parade, you can head over to the 36th Annual Peach Festival Rodeo for family entertainment, trick riders, and more. The rodeo starts at 8PM.

Saturday, June 7 – Festival Day

Festival activities start at 9:00AM and there’s plenty to eat, see, and experience—all located on the festival grounds.

Eat:
This year, enjoy bites from a variety of food vendors, offering everything from burgers, sandwiches, and pizza, to classic festival treats, refreshing drinks, and tasty snacks. You’ll also want to pay a visit to the Historic Fire Station for a scoop of frosty peach ice cream from the ladies of Beta Sigma Phi. 

  • Peach Fest Hack: Ask vendors what their special peach item is! All food vendors create and offer a peachy item just for the Peach Festival.

The festival is also conveniently located in the heart of Downtown Ruston, so there’s plenty of local restaurants you can walk to. 

See:

  • Festival Art Displays: Discover art boards and interactive displays by local artists that will be showcased throughout festival grounds.
  • Ruston Antique Classic Car Show: Head over to Cadence Bank from 9:00 AM-3:00 PM for the Car Show. Whether you’re a car enthusiast or just love vintage charm, this show is sure to impress with its lineup of beautifully restored classic vehicles.
  • Drone Show: Stick around till the headliner performance for the Peach Festival’s first ever drone show at 8:45 PM! This transforming sky display will take place before the headlining act to kick off the grand finale to the festival.

Experience: 

  • Live MusicEnjoy more than 12 hours of live performances at the Railroad Park stage. With an exciting lineup of artists, the festival’s musical energy will keep you dancing all day long. Don’t miss the headliner, The Band of Heathens, taking the stage after the drone show.
  • Kids AlleyA family-friendly zone packed with interactive activities and entertainment to keep the little ones smiling.
  • Curated market: The festival will have over 70 vendors, all selling their handmade arts, jewelry, clothing, mugs, decorations, candles, and lots more. Additionally, you can stop by the Peach Fest Sticker Wall in the market—perfect for a fun and unique photo op. 
    • Peach Fest Hack: arrive early to the Curated Market before your favorite vendor sells out. Visit www.lapeachfest.com/vendors to get a sneak peek at what vendors are offering. 

Sunday, June 8

After a Saturday full of adventures, take it slow on Sunday. Sleep in, relax, and savor your last day in town before heading home.

Eat

Start your day with a delicious Sunday brunch at Trio’s. Whether you choose a cozy table indoors or enjoy the sunshine on their patio, you’re in for a wonderful dining experience. Looking for a spot closer to downtown? Try Board & Bottle’s Sunday brunch and specialty brunch cocktails.

See

While you’re at the festival Saturday, you will likely spot a few of Ruston’s unique bulldog statues scattered throughout downtown. In total, there are 22 bulldogs placed around the city—each with its own charm. Stretch your visit a little longer and turn your Sunday into a scavenger hunt to track down the ones you missed.

Experience: 

Wind down with a peaceful visit to Lincoln Parish Park. This park offers mountain biking and walking trails, kayaking, fishing, and a playground for the kids. It’s the perfect way to soak in the natural beauty of Ruston and cap off your Peach Festival weekend.

From peachy treats to live tunes and everything in between, the Louisiana Peach Festival is the perfect way to kick off your summer. Soak up the fun, explore Ruston, and celebrate 75 years of sweet traditions and unforgettable memories! 

To learn the insider tips and tricks all seasoned festival goers know, read up on our How to Peach Fest blog.


J-Hodge falls to Union

Jonesboro-Hodge got out to a quick 1-0 lead in the top of the first inning but Union Parish erupted for 9 runs in their half of the frame on the way to a 12-4 decision in girls softball play on Friday. The loss against the Division III opponent dropped the Lady Tigers overall record to 2-7 while Union Parish improved to 3-9 on the year.
The Lady Tigers got on top in the first following when Alaina Ashcraft stole home after she and K Aaron stroked two out singles and Sierra Bond walked to load the bases. JHHS added three more runs in the top of the second when S Dill, B Thompson and A Anderson all walked and Ashcraft hit a single.

Up Next: JHHS dips back into district 1-1A play on Tuesday, when they host Ringgold at 4:00 pm at the Lady Tigers field, located on Thrasher Avenue in Jonesboro.


Late Quitman rally comes up short against Oak Grove

Doubles by Hallie Kate Pullig, her third of the game, Cali Deal and Kinsley Ponder and a single by Briley Bowers helped Quitman score two runs in the top of the 7th inning but homestanding Oak Grove held on for the 7-5 victory by stranding Lady Wolverine runners on second and third base.

The loss was the 4th in the last 7 games for Quitman against a murderers row of opponents that included #1 and #3 ranked teams in Division IV and the 3rd and 4th ranked team in Division III and dropped the Lady Wolverines record to 16-6 on the year.

Four straight hits, including doubles by Pullig, Maggie Guyotte and Ponder that sandwiched a single by Deal paced Quitman to a 3-0 lead in the top of the first but Oak Grove methodically rallied by scoring two runs in the first and fourth innings and single runs in the second, third and fifth frame.

Next Up: The schedule doesn’t get any easier as Quitman will hit the road again on Monday and Tuesday to play West Ouachita and Benton, the 6th and 2nd ranked teams in Division I among “non – select” schools.


Wolves post “double digits” for 5th game in a row

The second ranked school in Class B scored in double digits for the fifth straight game to win going away 18-2 against Beekman Charter on Friday. The victory improved the Wolves record to 15-8 according to the LHSAA which doesn’t count the three victories Weston has taken against out of state team this year and takes some of the sting out of the 14-10 loss to West Ouachita, the #4 ranked team in Division II, on Thursday.

Weston 18 Beekman Charter 2: A season best 16 run explosion in the bottom of the third ended the game in three innings as Colton Blundell smashed two home runs and both Drew Browning and Cole Tolar hit “round trippers” to help capitalize on the 15 free passes given up by Beekman Charter pitching. It was a complete team as other than the three above who combined for 10 runs and 9 RBI’s, Sawyer Watkins, Jase Borders and Bryce Zehr scored twice and both Jacob Gill and Ty Henderson scored a run each. Beaux Oliver took the win.

West Ouachita 14 Weston 10 (Thursday) – After spotting West Ouachita 6-1 and 8-4 leads in the first two innings, the Wolves closed the gap to just a one run deficit only to see the Chiefs score six in a frame for the second time in the game in the bottom of the fourth inning to put the game out of reach. The Wolves blasted West Ouachita pitching for 14 hits led by Jacob Gill’s career day of 4 RBI, paced by a home run and a double. Cole Tolar also came up big going 3/4 with a double while Bryce Zehr and Drew Browning hit “two baggers’ and scored two runs each. Ty Henderson chipped in with two hits and two runs scored and both Colton Blundell and Liam Weaver scored a run apiece.

Next Up! The Wolves will look to clinch their second straight district 1B title on Monday, when they travel to Doyline. Weston will then host Claiborne Christian on Tuesday with both games scheduled to begin at 5:00 pm.


Wolverines get back to .500 with win over Claiborne Christian

Quitman scored two runs in the top of the fifth and added three more in the top of the sixth inning to rally from a 1-0 deficit that evens the Wolverines overall record at 12-12. Kace West got the win after limiting the Crusaders to just one earned run in five innings of work.

Quitman took a 2-1 lead when Connor Moak and Hudson Pullig scored with two outs after both reached base via a walk and getting hit by a pitch, Tucker Newton singled and CCA made errant pickoff attempt that got away. The Wolverines upped the lead to the final 5-1 margin in the top of the sixth when Kace West and Maddox Duck walked, Cail King singled, Remi Upshaw reached on CCA’s third error of the game and Zach Smudricks singled leading to Hudson Pullig hitting a sacrifice fly.

Next Up! The Wolverines will travel to Simsboro for a 5:30 pm contest on Tuesday with the winner securing second place in district 1B.


Gov. Landry: Campti Mill Impact Meeting

JPJ Photo

Gov. Jeff Landry visited Northwestern State University on Feb. 25 to meet with community officials, legislators and leaders in business, industry, education and economic development to address the pending closure of the International Paper mill in Campti and its projected negative impact for Natchitoches Parish. 

“There is no one who understands the economic impact of the loss of these jobs more than me,” Landry said, referencing the closure of multiple Fruit of the Loom facilities in south Louisiana in the 1990s and early 2000s. “It’s not only the jobs that are leaving the Campti facility, but the downstream effect of what it does to the small businesses that are attached. While I don’t have all the answers today, I can tell you that we will continue to work towards building economic opportunities throughout central and north Louisiana.”

“I think that the greatest opportunity that we have for economic development is actually central and northern Louisiana,” he said, referencing the selection of Richland Parish as the site of Meta’s $10 billion artificial intelligence data center.

The governor said a proposed constitutional amendment on the March 29 ballot to reform the state’s tax code could open new opportunities to bring jobs to north and central Louisiana. He has also tasked higher education administrators with shaping Louisiana’s universities and community college systems to support jobs and industry.

“I think it’s evident from the governor’s remarks that his intention is clearly to bring the full force of the government to do whatever we can do to mitigate the reality of this decision by IP,” said Susan Bourgeois, secretary of the Department of Louisiana Economic Development. “One of the things I started out talking about in my role was that we really had to take the whole of government approach to economic development. It’s not just a government solution to the challenges or the opportunities that we face. It really does have to be the private sector, the education sector, the public sector, all of us pulling on the same rope.”

Bourgeois said her office is currently working with five active wood-related projects in north Louisiana.

“We’ve announced 21 wood-related projects in the last seven years that our team is now going to focus on seeing about placement of employees, placement of product and how we can redeploy some of the Louisiana resources that were used at the Campti facility in those projects,” Bourgeois said.

Susie Schowen, secretary of the Louisiana Workforce Commission, said she has engaged a rapid response team, the team that responds to layoffs, who can offer services specifically for IP workers.

“The IP workers are getting services in career counseling, envisioning where their career could go and how to connect with training. We can help offset the cost of that training with the focus of getting people jobs right here in this area.”

“We want to do as much as we can to backfill, to give back, what the closure is going to cause,” Landry said. “We will work as hard as we can and the good news is you’ve got other areas of the state that are performing, and a high tide has a tendency to lift all boats. We are focused on this area, not only Natchitoches but the central and north Louisiana area. We are hyper focused on opportunity because I think that there are opportunities out there.”

Landry said there are companies around the country and around the world are looking for investments in the U.S., which aligns with President Donald Trump’s agenda to boost American manufacturing.

“Right now, that is being driven primarily by the president’s agenda and we want to be able to capture as much of that as we can. You see this great team and we have worked hard and I don’t know anyone who isn’t trying to soften the impact,” he said.

The Louisiana Workforce Commission has resources available at https://www.laworks.net/.

Information on the Louisiana office of Economic Development is available at
https://www.opportunitylouisiana.gov/.


KICKOFF CONSIGNMENT & SURPLUS AUCTION

Lasyone’s Auction – Winnfield, LA.

WHEN: Saturday, January 18, 2025
TIME:  9 AM
WHERE: 7675 Hwy 167S, Winnfield, LA 71483

Selling for: City of Winnfield, City of Natchitoches, Local Rental Company, Contractors and Farmers  Construction Equipment, Tractors, Trucks, Trailers, Farm Equipment, 50+ Vehicles, Tools & Much More!

For more information, call Rex at 318-648-8509 or 318-471-0962 or visit us online at: www.lasyoneauctions.com 

LIVE BIDS: www.proxibid.com/lasyone

There’s something for everyone!! We hope to see you there!!
Rex Lasyone, LA lic#:1549, TX lic#: 16267

  • Partial Listing: ∙ New 2024 IR LSU Golf Cart, 4 Seater, Electric, Loaded ∙ Kubota X1140 RTV, 4 Seater, Diesel ∙ Kubota RTV 500 w/bed, 4×4, Gas, 3871hrs ∙ Kubota RTV 900, Camo w/bed, 4×4, Diesel, 1407hrs ∙ Kawasaki Mule RTV, 4 Seater, 4×4, w/Bed, Diesel ∙ Several 4 Wheelers • Stratos Boat Trailer • 2007 Hummer SF97 Army Truck, 4×4, w/bed, Diesel • New Holland BR7070 Crop Cutter Round Hay Baler • New IRD25 Dump Buggy on tracks • New Holland LS160 Skidsteer • Ditch Witch 3610D Trencher w/Backhoe Attachment • Xtreme XR1045 Telescopic Forklift w/pipe clamps, 10k Capacity • John Deere 160C LC Excavator, cab/air, 6528hrs • Link-Belt LS3400 Excavator, long reach • 2022 Kubota SVL 75-2 Skid Steer on tracks, Cab/Air, 1100hrs • Barreto 401 Walk Behind Trencher • YanMar VIO 35 Excavator, Rubber Tracks, w/Hydraulic Thumb, 1200 hrs • 2007 Mack CHN613 Day Cab Truck, 320k mis • 2004 International 7300 Bucket Truck, 4×4 • 1985 Ford F-700 Dump Truck • 2010 Ford Mini Van XLT, Auto, Gas, 188033 mis • 2007 Toyota
    Tacoma Truck, 4×4, Auto, 185k mis, 4dr • 2007 Ford E-350 XLT • Passenger Van, 88k mis, one owner (from local church) • 2009 Nissan Altima • 2004 Ford Mustang Convertible • 2013 Freightliner Sleeper Truck • 2015 Ford Police Interceptor • 2016 Chevy Tahoe Police Car (2) 2016 Top Hat Bumper Trailer w/Ramps • Lowboy Trailer w/Dovetail & Ramps • 2007 Load Trail GN Car Hauler Trailer • 2011 Tiger Heavy Duty Bumper Trailer • 2000 HM Bumper Trailer, dual axle
    w/tailgate • Several Gooseneck & Bumper Trailers • Delco Steam Cleaner Pressure Washer, diesel
  • New & Used Containers • Set of Metal Tracks fits JD Dozer • Pipe Racks • 4 Snatch Blocks
  • Heavy Duty Spreader Chain • Bolsters for Log Trailer • 2 Dura Heat Shop Heaters • Boss Power 40KW Generator • Brush Bandit Model 150 Wood Chipper on Trailer • Detroit Diesel Engine • Terex RL4 Light Plant on Trailer, low hours • New AGT Quick Attach Forks • Genie GS-2632 Manlift • Fuel Tank on Skid • 7ft Grapple for Brush • 5ft & 6ft Bushogs • Bobcat Quick Attach Auger Attachment • Hobart Champion Generator • Truck Load 24ft Free Standing Cattle Panels • Detroit Diesel Power Unit on Trailer • Metal Shelves • 7ft Bionic Dirt Blade • Scaffolding • 3PH Cultivator • King Kutter 5ft Disk • Arts-Way 425-A Feed Mixer Grinder • Vermeer Accu-Bale Plus XL Series 605 Round Baler • Feed Troughs • Atlas Copco XAS 185 Air Compressor • 5ft Heavy Duty Disk • Vicon CM2400 Hay Cutter • Modern 6ft Quick Attach Brush Cutter • Tracks to fit Cat 262 Skid Steer • 50 joints 2 7/8 Pipe • Load of Priefert Gates & Panels • Miller Matic 35 Welder • Heavy Wall 4in & 6in Hose Pipe on Reel • 2 Approx 10,000 Gallon Steel Water Tanks on Skids • Cattle Feeder on Dual Wheels • Tools and lots more!!

HUGE FALL CONSIGNMENT & PARISH SURPLUS AUCTION

Lasyone’s Auction – Winnfield, LA.

WHEN: Saturday, November 16, 2024
TIME:  9 AM
WHERE: 7675 Hwy 167S, Winnfield, LA 71483

Selling Surplus from: City of Natchitoches, Town of Grayson, Natchitoches Parish Fire Dept, Petron, Hydroline, Contractors & Local Farmers

For more information, call Rex at 318-648-8509 or 318-471-0962 or visit us online at:
www.proxibid.com/lasyone

There’s something for everyone!! We hope to see you there!!
Rex Lasyone, LA lic#:1549, TX lic#: 16267

Partial Listing: Xtreme XR1045 Telescopic Forklift w/Pipe Clamp, 10000lb capacity, 45ft Reach, 3200hrs ∙ John Deere 160C LC Excavator, cab/air, 6528hrs ∙ (2) Ottawa Yard Trucks (salvage) ∙ Genie GS-2632 Manlift ∙ Miller Big Blue 300R Pro Welder on Trailer ∙

(2) Hyster 16k Capacity Forklifts, diesel ∙ Komatsu WA250 Wheel Loader ∙ Cat 120 Motor Grader w/Scarifier ∙ Galion T400 Motor Grader, Enclosed Cab w/Scarifier ∙ Ditch

Witch 3610 Trencher w/A322 Backhoe ∙ Smith Co Drop Deck Trailer, Tri-Axle ∙ CMC Aluminum 22 yard Dump Trailer ∙ 1998 Mate Tri-Axle Dump Trailer ∙ Goose Neck &

Bumper Trailers ∙ 2008 Ford F-450 Truck, Auto, 4×4, Cummings Diesel, 78k mis ∙ 2012 Mack CXU613 Sleeper Truck, 10 speed, Eaton Mack Engine ∙ 2007 Sterling Day Cab

Truck, Auto, Air Ride, 231k mis ∙ 2000 Chevy C6500 w/210 Cat Engine, 6 speed, manual, air brakes, Vulcan 894 14 ton Wrecker Bed ∙ 2002 Chevy C6500 w/210 Cat, 6 speed,

manual trans, hydraulic brakes, w/21ft Champion Roll Back Bed ∙ 1999 International Roll Back Truck, 10 speed, 193kmis ∙ 1998 GMC C6500, 210 Cat Engine w/Manual Transmission, Hydraulic Brakes, w/Chevron 512 12 ton Wrecker Bed ∙ 2006 Toyota Avalon, Leather, Loaded ∙ 2007 Buick Lucerne, nice car ∙ 2023 Honda 420 Rancher 4- wheeler ∙ 2014 Kawasaki Teryx4 800, 4 seater, 4×4, 275 hours∙ 40ft & 20ft Storage

Containers ∙ Bush Hogs ∙ Box Blades ∙ 100 joints 2 7/8 Pipe ∙ Load of New Attachments Welders ∙ Load of New Tires on Rims ∙ Western Furniture ∙ Antiques & more!!!

Customer Appreciation Sale – $1000 cash to be given away throughout the day!!

Come to the Auction to be eligible for the Cash Drawings! Just be present to win!
For more info, Call Rex at 318-648-8509 or visit www.lasyoneauctions.com