Not a Tornado! What was thought to be a tornado passing south of Jonesboro has been verified as a rain shaft
The fury of the all-too-often summer storms that have frequented north Louisiana over the past several weeks was felt in full force once again in Jackson Parish on Wednesday, July 1st, as torrential rainfall and high winds caused power outages, damaged homes, and toppled trees, including one that fell across Hwy 4 west of Jonesboro that forced the road to be closed for a period of time.
A video of what was thought to be a funnel cloud passing south of Jonesboro during the storm was widely circulated on Facebook but was later verified by KNOE-TV Channel 8 Meteorologist Marcus Walter as only a rain shaft. To see the report shown on KNOE-TV, click here.
Committed to keeping our streets and highways safe and to helping prevent impaired driving and improve traffic safety, the Jonesboro Police Department announces that from 4:00 pm to 2:00 am, on Saturday, July 11, 2026, a Sobriety and Highway Safety Checkpoint will be conducted.
This checkpoint is being conducted under the authority of Louisiana Revised Statute 14:98, which makes it illegal to operate a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs. During the checkpoint, officers will also verify valid driver’s licenses, ensure compliance with seat belt laws, and help reduce crashes caused by drug impairment. The PUBLIC NOTICE as offered by the Jonesboro Police Department is shown in the Classifieds Section of the Jackson Parish Journal.
“The goal of this checkpoint is simple: TO SAVE LIVES! Every year impaired driving leads to preventable crashes, serious injuries, and deaths. By removing impaired drivers from the roadways, we can help protect our community and everyone traveling through Jonesboro,” said Jonesboro Police Chief Isreal Smith. “The Jonesboro Police Department appreciates the cooperation of our citizens as we continue to make our community a safer place for everyone.”
The Jackson Parish School Board will hold its regularly scheduled monthly meeting on Monday, July 6th. The session will take place at 11:00 am in the Conference Room of the Jackson Parish School District Central Office, located at 315 Pershing Hwy. in Jonesboro.
Prior to Board members Mary Saulters (President), Rick Barlow (Vice-President), Gerry Mims, Calvin Waggoner, Wade McBride, Paulette Belton and Dennis Clary addressing items on the agenda (shown below), the Executive/Finance Committee, Transportation Committee, and Building and Grounds Committee will meet.
Notice of Public Meeting
JACKSON PARISH SCHOOL BOARD REGULAR SCHEDULED MEETING AGENDA
Invocation– Rick Barlow
Pledge of Allegiance – Paulette Belton
Call to Order
Consider approving the minutes as presented from the regularly scheduled meeting held on June 1, 2026.
Consider adopting a resolution for canvassing the returns and declaring the result of the special election held in Consolidated School District No. 1 of the Parish of Jackson, State of Louisiana, on June 27, 2026, to authorize the continuation of a special tax therein.
Adopt 2026 Millage Rates
Information on 2026 Summer Reading Program.
Consider adopting items per the Committee Reports attached hereto.
NOTE: (Reprint of article published by BassMaster on July 1, 2026. Contributing writers were Andrew Canulette, Christopher Decker, Mark Hicks, Brian Sak)
Top 10 Best Bass Lakes of 2026
We’re celebrating the United States’ 250th birthday the best way we know how — by showcasing the very best bass fishing our country has to offer.
If you love to fish for bass and live in this country, consider yourself lucky. The United States of America is filled with incredible bass fisheries from sea to shining sea. There are tidal waters on the East Coast and the West Coast, Northern glacial lakes and swampy Southern backwaters, mammoth reservoirs and epic flowing rivers. Indeed, America is crisscrossed, pocked and peppered all over with destinations worthy of a bass fishing road trip.
This year, as we celebrate America250, our annual list of 100 Best Bass Lakes is even more special because we’re reminded that for anyone with a truck, a boat and some desire, every fishery on this list is a public resource where you’re free to go and create memories to last a lifetime.
So as you read, we encourage you to make your own list — the best bass lakes you haven’t visited yet — then consider hitching up the rig and heading that direction. After all, these lakes are your lakes, and they’re the best this country has to offer.
Clear Lake, California (43,785 acres)
It’s back. Clear Lake has claimed the top spot in the West for four years running now and is the No. 1 fishery in the nation for the second consecutive year. That’s not just Bassmaster weighing in, either. When we polled the nation this year, looking for everyone’s picks for the best bass fisheries in the country, about 30% of the respondents listed Clear Lake somewhere within their top 15 waters. And 25% of those anglers listed California’s largest natural lake as their No. 1 destination. Flower Moye, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) Inland Fisheries Assessment and Monitoring Program supervisor, has the data to back up Clear Lake as the top pick. At the 16 tournaments held here that we surveyed, it took limits with bass averaging 7.29 pounds apiece to claim victory. The heaviest winning five-fish creel, which included a 13.07-pound big fish, was an incredible 45.16 pounds weighed in at the Best Bass Tournament Trail’s Golden Mussel event in February. At a March contest, held by the same organization, it took over 40 pounds of fish to finish in the top three. If you decide to head to Clear Lake, it’s important to know that there are active mussel prevention regulations in effect, in which all trailered vessels must pass screening and display a Lake County mussel sticker, with mandatory rescreening required for boats returning from out-of-county waters.
2. Lake J.B. Thomas, Texas [7,282 acres]
Every year, a different Texas lake bursts onto the national stage. This year, J.B. Thomas is that fishery. Not that Thomas is an unknown. Far from it, considering it was No. 9 on our list of best bass lakes in the Central Division a year ago. But 2025 was a ballad compared to the absolute shredding happening on Thomas in 2026. In the first four months of this year, a total of 159 of the 467 bass entered in the popular Texas Parks & Wildlife Department (TPWD) Toyota ShareLunker program were caught at J.B. Thomas. To qualify for the program, the bass must weigh more than 8 pounds, and a third of the way into the year, more than a third of qualifying bass were caught in the small reservoir located in west Texas, about 95 miles northeast of Odessa. The highlight through April was the pair of Legacy Class bass caught by Lawrence Lee of Tolar, Texas, on March 24 — the heavy tipping the scales at 13.57 pounds and another coming in at 13.10. Lee already had proved his prowess when he boated a 13.12-pound fish on March 8. Almost a month earlier, Stephenville, Texas, resident Brandon Burks caught a 13.16-pounder. The lake’s success even surprises TPWD officials, who note the turbid and muddy waters of J.B. Thomas “continue to defy normal bass logic and continue to produce an unfathomable number of fish over 8 pounds.”
3. St. Lawrence River (Thousand Islands), New York [50-mile stretch, plus eastern Lake Ontario]
While eastern Lake Ontario consistently yields the heaviest bass here, it’s possible to catch five smallmouth bass totaling 20 pounds or more anywhere on this historic waterway. Case in point: During a Turtlebox Bassmaster Open presented by Battery Tender in early August 2025, anglers launched out of Waddington, N.Y., about 80 miles from Lake Ontario, and they were limited to the river only. Canadian Cory Johnston won the three-day event with 74 pounds, 15 ounces. On Day 1, 53 of the 143 anglers bagged limits weighing 20 pounds or more, including three limits over 25 pounds. The catch on Day 2 was just as strong, with three limits over 26 pounds plus a fourth over 25. Lucas Murphy caught the heaviest limit that day with an impressive 26-12.
4. Santee Cooper Lakes, South Carolina [110,600 acres (Lake Marion) and 60,400 acres (Lake Moultrie)]
Say hello to the new king of the Southeast region. Lake Marion and Lake Moultrie are producing stunning largemouth right now. This fishery has always produced giants, but with the resurgence of eelgrass and hydrilla, the lakes have never been better, and it shows in the results. On Feb. 21, a Carolina Anglers Team Trail (CATT) event took a stunning 41.92 pounds to win, a limit that included three 9-pounders. Second place brought in a measly 32.38 pounds. A week later, a two-day, weather-shortened Pro Circuit event produced eight bags over 30 pounds, including limits weighing 35-4, 35-0 and 34-9, with the winner totaling 67-4. A 10-pound, 5-ounce largemouth claimed big bass. Then, in early April, five bags over 30 pounds led the Strike King Bassmaster College Series presented by Bass Pro Shops standings, and it took 28-13 just to reach the Top 10. All the way down to the 56th-place team landed 20 pounds. And at the Yokohama Tire Bassmaster Elite held in mid-May, winner Chris Johnston had two 30-plus limits on the way to a 113-12 four-day total. Outside of California, Texas and Florida, there aren’t many places in the country where anglers can fish for this caliber of largemouth.
5. Lake St. Clair, Michigan [430 square miles]
The spectacular smallmouth fishing in this shallow, grass-filled inland sea makes it a strong contender to be the top brown bass fishery in the nation. In early August 2025, anglers competing in a Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series tournament caught incredible limits of smallmouth bass while fishing practically in the shadows of Detroit, Mich. Illinoisan Trey McKinney earned the blue trophy with a four-day tally of 96 pounds, 1 ounce. On the first day, 44 of the 101 anglers weighed in 20 pounds or more. They added 40 more 20-pound bags the next day, including Tucker Smith’s 26-2 haul — the heaviest of the tournament. And the 50 anglers competing on Day 3 added 22 more.
6. Lake Fork, Texas [27,264 acres]
When Texas biologists and seasoned anglers talk about the best the Lone Star State has to offer, most of them continue to point to Lake Fork. And that speaks volumes, considering the otherworldly productivity lakes like J.B. Thomas and O.H. Ivie have had the past few years. Lake Fork is located just east of Dallas, making it easy to reach for countless thousands of anglers. It’s also a big enough water body to comfortably host recreational anglers and tournament anglers simultaneously. And the catch here is as consistent as big-bass fisheries come. How so? Consider 51 Toyota ShareLunker bass were caught at Fork in the first four months of 2026, the biggest of those a 13.38-pound Legacy Class caught Feb. 28 by Godley, Texas, resident Dale Washington. That’s a toad by anyone’s measurements, but it’s the long list of 8- and 9-pounders that truly makes Fork stand out — for anyone from Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series anglers to weekend warriors itching to tackle a trophy bass.
7. Lake Tohopekaliga/Kissimmee Chain, Florida [65,000 acres in the four primary lakes
This chain of lakes has always been a destination, but it might be the best in Florida this year, although the weather made the early spring weights a little more pedestrian than they otherwise would have been. A severe cold front halted the spawning process ahead of the late January Turtlebox Bassmaster Open presented by Battery Tender, but Cody Stahl showed the potential, landing back-to-back 28-pound bags and winning with a three-day total of 74-6. Jonathan Kelley landed a 10-7, one of several 9- and 10-pounders caught on Day 1. When Mother Nature cooperated, it almost always took 30 pounds or more to win a tournament during the main stretch of the spawn. The early springtime always gets the love from national series, but the Kissimmee Chain is good all year long. A touch over 30 pounds earned first place in the April 26 Xtreme Bass Series tournament out of Lake Toho. Then, the winning team in the May 3 Xtreme Bass Series event out of Lake Kissimmee blasted 38 pounds and anchored its giant sack with a 10.36-pound largemouth. That wasn’t even the big bass of the tournament, which ended up being 10.48. Second place brought 34.38 to the scales.
8. O.H. Ivie Lake, Texas [19,149 acres]
Ivie has been in the Texas spotlight the past half-decade, blossoming from relative obscurity into a destination lake that gained worldwide notoriety. That sort of change happens when a place is voted the Best Bass Lake in the U.S. in 2023 and second in 2022, 2024 and 2025. Ivie “slips” in the rankings this year not because it’s been any less productive than the previous few years, but only because it can be hit or miss for anglers looking for trophy bass. The ones that hit, though, are reeling in giants. In the first four months of 2026, Ivie anglers caught 32 bass that qualified for the Toyota ShareLunker program — the biggest of them a 14.22-pound Legacy Class bass caught by Ted Taylor of Lucas, Texas, on March 31. That was one of five largemouth bass that clocked in at more than 13 pounds this year, and there were a good number of 12-, 11- and 10-pounders to prove that Ivie hasn’t lost a step when it comes to world-class bassin’.
9. Withlacoochee River/Lake Rousseau, Florida [20-mile radius of Dunnellon]
On Lake Rousseau alone, eight largemouth over 10 pounds have been registered with the Florida TrophyCatch Program since January, the biggest being an 11-7 caught on Feb. 5. Out of the Withlacoochee River proper, two 11-pounders and a 10-15 have been registered this spring. That doesn’t include the multitude of 8-pounders in the program. In an Xtreme Bass Series event in February, it took over 25 pounds to win, and multiple 8-pounders were brought back to weigh-in. With lots of fish-holding cover and plenty of classic Florida charm, this system is a destination for any bass-loving angler.
10. Caney Creek Reservoir, Louisiana [5,000 acres]
What more can be said about this gem tucked alongside Jimmie Davis State Park in north-central Louisiana? Let the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) count the ways. When the LDWF released its 2025 Louisiana Annual Tournament Report Information Project (LATRIP) earlier this year, Caney Creek Reservoir (often called Caney Lake) was atop just about every favorable metric, including the biggest tournament bass caught in 2025 (11.94 pounds), the highest percentage of tournament boats catching more than 20-pound limits per day (13.86%), the highest average weight of the winning big bass (8.79 pounds) and the highest average first-place weight (28.51 pounds). Then Caney’s data really got impressive. How about nine of the 10 heaviest stringers caught in tournaments last year coming from Caney Lake (including an almost unbelievable 42.94-pound stringer in May)? And for good measure, consider seven of the 10 heaviest tournament-caught bass last year came from this one small spot. Caney is a true success story for the LDWF stocking program. There’s no question it’s one of the best bass holes in the United States.
“I’m very proud of Caney Lake and what it means to Jackson Parish and the State of Louisiana. I know it’s frustrating at times, with all the boat traffic and bass tournaments on this small lake. This top ten ranking in the United States proves that Caney Lake is still an amazing fishery.” – Gary Joynor, President of Jackson Parish Watershed Commission
A special invitation is being extended to all First Responders from Jackson Parish to take part AT NO CHARGE in the Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) course at Jackson Parish Ambulance Service District (JPASD) Training Center, located at 115 Watts Street in Jonesboro, that is scheduled for Monday, July 13th.
Anyone is welcome to register for this in-person, comprehensive EMT course, which will be held from 6:00 – 10:00 pm every Monday and Thursday for 15 weeks, providing the knowledge, skills, and hands-on training needed to begin a career in Emergency Medical Services.
Cost to attend is as follows:
FREE – Jackson Parish First Responders (With an approved letter from your Administration) $400.00 – Outside Jackson Parish First Responders (With an approved letter from your Administration) $400.00 – Jackson Parish Residents (Made possible through grant funding obtained by the JPASD) $1400.00 – Residents from outside Jackson Parish
Space is limited, so please register now to reserve a spot. For more information or to enroll, call (318) 259-2877. Approved letters by administrative officials should be emailed to jacksonparishambulance@gmail.com
JPASD Call Report
June, 2026
As temperatures rise, please be mindful when working outdoors or in poorly ventilated areas. Heat exhaustion is a condition that happens when your body overheats. Symptoms may include heavy sweating and a rapid pulse. Heat exhaustion is one of three heat illnesses. Heat cramps are the mildest heat illness. Heatstroke is the most serious. Heatstroke needs emergency care. If it’s not treated, heatstroke can quickly damage the brain, heart, kidneys, and muscles. This damage gets worse the longer treatment is delayed, which increases the risk of serious complications or death. Call 911.
Two of the six Jackson Parish baseball and softball All-Star teams that qualified for the Diamond Youth Baseball and Softball state tournaments are still alive, with the JP12U and JP10U softball teams now scheduled to play in elimination bracket games on Sunday, July 5th needing to win one more game to earn a berth in the championship game. Overall, the six teams have won 9 games and lost 13, with the three softball teams (6U, 10U, 12U), led by JP10U’s 3-1 mark, owning a 5-6 record and the three baseball teams (9U, 10U, 11U) going 4-7 over the first three days of play with both the 11U and 9U teams winning two and losing two.
2026 State Tournament Qualifiers
Jackson Parish 12U Softball All-Stars
Manager: Kirsten Savage Coaches: Ronny Savage and Dustin Siddon Team Members: Ava Cutright, Emma Gray, Brelaina Hall, Delilah Hudson, Autumn Kohler, Charley Linton, Breezy Marker, Aubrie Maxwell, Ryleigh McCormick, Elliot Savage, Ella Siddon, and Lizzie Sullivan.| State Tournament Summary: Qualified for the Diamond Youth Softball state tournament to be played in Jefferson Parish, July 2-5, by finishing in third place in the District 4 Softball tourney. Lost to Jefferson Parish East 16-0 and West Monroe 7-6 in Pool Play before beating Grant Parish 8-6 in the opening round of bracket play. Lost to Pool One top seed Jefferson Parish Westbank, 15-3 in the second round but came back to beat West Monroe 10-5 in an elimination game to move to within one victory of qualifying for the state championship title game.
Jefferson Parish East 16 JP12U 0 (Game One of Pool Play): Facing a stellar pitcher, JP12U had only 4 players reach base. Elliot Savage got the only hit for the locals, with Autumn Kohler, Ava Cutright and Ryleigh McCormick, who also stole a base, all earning walks.
West Monroe 7 JP12U 6 (Game Two of Pool Play): Emma Gray slapped a clutch two-out double to score Ella Siddon and Ryleigh McCormick, both of whom had reached on free passes, in the top of the fifth and final inning, but Autumn Kohler, who had singled to load the bases, was left stranded at third base with the tying run to end the courageous rally attempt. JP12U opened the game by Kohler hitting a single and Gray walking to set up an Elliot Savage double that scored a run. Gray then stole home to give JP12U a 2-0 lead. Down 5-2 after three innings, JP12U narrowed the deficit to just one run in the top of the fourth inning on the strength of Brelaina Hall’s double and Ava Cutright’s triple. West Monroe would then score two in the bottom half of the inning to go up 7-4.
JP12U 8 Grant Parish 6: After spotting Grant Parish a 4-2 lead, JP12U came storming back to score 6 runs over the final four innings to win the opening round game of bracket play. Lizzie Sullivan led the team’s tournament-best 15-hit attack by smashing a pair of doubles and a triple, while scoring two runs and knocking in two more. JP12U collected 8 extra-base hits in all, with Charley Linton and Elliot Savage both adding a triple each and Breezy Marker, Brelaina Hall and Emma Gray all slapping doubles. Delilah Hudson contributed with two hits while Autumn Kohler, Ava Cutright, Ella Siddon and Ryleigh McCormick all added a base hit each as every JP12U batter got a hit.
Jefferson Parish Westbank 15 JP12U 3: A determined two-out rally in the bottom of the first inning put JP12U up 3-1, but the other team from New Orleans scored 7 runs in both the top of the second and third innings to send JP12U into the elimination side of the bracket in the “run rule’ shortened game. The big opening inning scoring began for JP12U when Elliot Savage and Brelaina Hall hit back to back two out doubles for the locals first run. That was followed by Lizzie Sullivan drawing a walk, leading to Ava Cutright then hitting the third double of the inning to score two.
JP12U 10 West Monroe 5: It looked bleak with West Monroe holding a 4-run lead after three at-bats, but the locals stormed back with six runs in the bottom of the third and added four more in the fifth to stay alive in the double-elimination tournament. Charley Linton got the big rally started with a single but was thrown out at second on Ella Siddon’s fielder’s choice grounder. JP12U responded by getting the next six batters on base when Breezy Marker singled, Ryleigh McCormick got hit by a pitch, and both Autumn Kohler and Emma Gray walked to load the bases and narrow the gap to 4-2. Elliot Savage then hit a single and Brelaina Hall laced a double to give JP12U a 5-4 lead, setting up a sacrifice fly out by Lizzie Sullivan for the final run of the inning. JP12U put the game on ice in the bottom of the 5th, when after West Monroe had closed to within 6-5, McCormick coaxed a one-out walk, Kohler singled and both Gray and Savage doubled, setting up a Hall sacrifice ground out to give the locals a 10-5 lead that held up.
Jackson Parish 10U Softball All-Stars
Manager: Cheyenne Allen Coaches: Kristen Allen and Bethany Garner Team Members: Kylee-Ayn Allen, Malia Gunter, Lyla Hall, Kaylee Hammons, Caylee Mauthe, Ryleigh Puffer, Kadence Sampey, Natalie Sullivan, Mercedes Taylor, River Waggoner, Mez’Meri Walker, and Brenleigh Whitman. State Tournament Summary: One of 10 teams to qualify for the state tournament being played in Buckeye, LA. Beat Tioga 16-0 and 12-0 in Pool Play before falling to JPRD East 11-1 in their first game of bracket play. A 5-2 victory over Minden put the locals within one victory of reaching the championship game.
JP10U 16 Tioga 0 (Game One Pool Play): Natalie Sullivan and Kylee-Ayn Allen combined on a four-inning no-hitter while striking out 11, and JP10U scored 7 runs in both the third and fourth innings to end the contest via the “run rule”. Caylee Mauthe led the offensive onslaught by going 3/3 with 3 RBI’s, while Ryleigh Puffer went 2/3, scored twice, and knocked in three. Sullivan went 2/3 and scored twice, while Allen also got two hits, including a double, scored three times, and knocked in a run. Malia Gunter got a hit, scored two runs and had 2 RBI’s; Brenleigh Whitman got a hit, scored twice and had an RBI; and Mez’Meri Walker scored twice after getting a hit and reaching base with a walk. River Waggoner smashed a two-run triple, Mercedes Taylor hit a double and scored once. Kadence Sampson got a hit and scored with Lyla Hall also contributing with a run scored and an RBI after walking twice.
JP10U 12 Tioga 0 (Game Two Pool Play): The opponent did better this time around as they got one hit over three innings off of Kylee-Ayn Allen who struck out six for the shutout and JP10U batters continued to thrive on Tioga pitching racking up 10 hits in only two at bats that included a pair of doubles by Natalie Sullivan (2 RS, 2RBI) and a single and a triple by Ryleigh Puffer (2 RS, 3 RBI). Allen (2 RS, 2 RBI) helped her cause by slapping a pair of singles, while Caylee Mauthe (2 RS, 2 RBI), Malia Gunter (RS, RBI), Kaylee Hammons (RS), and Mez’Meri Walker (RS) all added singles. Brenleigh Withman also scored a run.
Jefferson Parish East 11 JP10U 1: The tide turned when JPRD East pitching dominated, holding JP10U hitless over four innings. Natalie Sullivan scored the only run for the locals in the bottom of the fourth inning after reaching base on an error, advancing to third base on a ground out by Caylee Mauthe, and scoring on a Kylee-Ayn Allen sacrifice ground out after Malia Gunter drew a walk.
JP10U 5 Minden 2: Breaking open a scoreless pitching duel, JP10U plated four runs in the bottom of the fourth inning and then added an insurance run in the fifth to stay alive and move to within one victory of reaching the state championship game. Mez’Meri Walker opened the decisive inning with a walk followed by a single by Natalie Sullivan, who was the complete game victor after holding Mindent to just four singles and striking out 8. Caylee Mauthe walked to load the bases, and then Malia Gunter hit a two-run single, Kylee-Ayn Allen hit a sacrifice grounder, and Brenleigh Whitman executed a perfect bunt single. An insurance run was added in the bottom of the fifth inning when Lyla Hall walked and scored after River Waggoner singled, Kaylee Hammons drew another walk to load the bases and Kadence Sampey slapped a single.
Jackson Parish 6U Softball All-Stars
Photo Courtesy of Ruffled Feathers Photography
Manager: Allison Johnson Coaches: Odie Bradley, Jacob Johnson, and Zach Roberson Team Members: Landry Atkins, Peyton Barnett, Skye Bradley, Avery Dodson, Lylah Johnston, Lucy Reed, Mellie Roberson, Josie Thrower, Emerysn Walker, StellaRae Whitman, Cienna Williams, and Amara Wilson State Tournament Summary: All four teams from District 4 qualified for the ten-team state tournament play in Buckeye, LA before being eliminated after losing to West Monroe 16-5 and Minden 13-1.
West Monroe 16 JP6U 5 (Game One): The locals made a determined rally by scoring all five runs in the top of the third but the big lead by West Monroe, who scored 7 in both the first and second innings was too much to overcome. Skye Bradley got things started for JP6U in their last at bat with a double followed by singles from Josie Thrower and Landry Atklns. Singles by Amara Wilson, Lucy Reed and Lylah Johnston with two outs and a pair of doubles from Emersyn Walker paved the way to the final runs.
Minden 13 JP6U 1 (Game Two): As fate would have it, JP6U once again had to play one of the teams that beat them in the District 4 tournament, falling to Minden, who racked up 23 hits in the “coach pitch” competition compared to seven for the locals. StellaRae Whitman, Amara Wilson, Mellie Robertson, Avery Dodson, Emersyn Walker, Peyton Barnett and Skye Bradley all got base hits in the elimination game.
Jackson Parish 11U Baseball All-Stars
Manager: Lance Seymore Coaches: Railey Garrett, Dusty Burton Team Members: Clay Burton, Asher Cooper, Oliver Garrett, Michael Gray, William Greer-Kelley, Sawyer Kelley, James Lewis, Cruz Nomey, Asher Norred, Andrew Seymore, Koplen Taylor, Grant Williams State Tournament Summary: One of eight teams to qualify for the double-elimination state tournament played in Bossier City, LA, JP11U beat Sabine Parish 7-1 to open play before losing 9-5 to Concordia Parish to drop to the elimination side of the bracket. Another victory over Sabine, this time by a 9-2 score, advanced them to a contest against Winnsboro, where they were eliminated after a 5-2 loss, ending the tournament with a 2-2 record.
JP11U 7 Sabine Parish 1 (Game One): Carter Kelley and Koplen Taylor combined to hold Sabine Parish to just 3 hits and one run while JP11U scored in every at bat, including putting up four runs in the bottom of the third inning to basically put the game away. Asher Cooper (RS, RBI) hit a pair of singles to lead the six-hit attack, with Kelley and Clay Burton (2 RS, 2 RBI) adding a double each. Taylor (RS) and Andrew Seymore (RBI) chipped in with a hit each while Asher Norred, Landry Garrett and Ryder Gray all scored after reaching base on walks.
Concordia Parish 9 JP11U 5 (Game Two): Four runs by Concordia in both the second and third innings were too much for JP11U to overcome, after being held to just two hits in five innings. Koplen Taylor (RBI) and Asher Norred got the two hits and scored a run each for the locals, with Andrew Seymore, Sawyer Kelley, and Ryder Gray also scoring.
JP11U 9 Sabine Parish 2 (Game Three): With Sabine leading 2-1 heading into the fifth and final inning, JP11U exploded for 8 runs without getting a hit to win the rematch and stay alive in the elimination side of the bracket. It was a keen eye by Jackson Parish batters that made the difference as Carter Kelley, Cruz Nomey, Asher Cooper, Landry Garrett, Ryder Gray, James Lewis, and Koplen Taylor, who got the win after his relief pitching effort of no runs in three innings and striking out five and got both of the JP11U hits, all coaxed walks, and Asher Norred, Grant Williams, and Sawyer Kelley got hit by pitches.
Winnsboro 5 JP11U 2 (Game Four): Three runs in the top of the fifth inning by Winnsboro broke open a 2-2 tie game in the contest that saw both teams get six hits each and the lead change five times. After spotting Winnsboro a quick 1-0 lead, JP11U came back to even things after one inning when, with two outs, Asher Norred and Andrew Seymore singled. The locals fell behind 2-1 but again rallied to tie the game in the bottom of the fourth inning when Grant Williams singled and scored on Asher Norred’s second hit of the game. Cruz Nomey and Sawyer Kelley also got a base hit in the contest.
JP11U 7 Sabine Parish 1 (Game One): The locals scored in each of their four at bats, highlighted by scoring four runs in the bottom of the third, which was more than enough for Carter Kelley and Koplen Taylor who combined to hold Sabine Parish to just three hits and one run.
Jackson Parish 10U Baseball All-Stars
Photo Courtesy of Ruffled Feathers Photography
Manager: Josh Jones Coaches: Trevor Hall, Adam Pardue Team Members: Taten Hall, Reece Johnson, Jeremiah Jones, Carson Knox, Cameron Pardue, Jess Potts, Isaac Sessions, Abram Thrower, Sutton Vail, Lyndon Walsworth, Austin West, Joedy Wiggins Jr. State Tournament Information: One of eight teams to qualify for the double-elimination Northern Region State Tournament played at the Jackson Parish Recreation Department Sports Complex, Jackson Parish lost to Mamou 15-4 in Pool Play and then fell to Franklinton 8-1 and Winnsboro 12-2 in bracket competition.
Mamou 15 JP10U 4 (Pool Play): Seven runs by Mamou in the first inning and six more in the second were too much for JP10U to overcome. Limited to just two hits in the contest, both by Sutton Vail, who scored a run and knocked in two, the locals also saw Tate Hall, Cameron Pardue, and Lyndon Walsworth all score after getting on base by coaxing walks.
Franklinton 8 JP10U 1 (Game One): Once again the bats remained cold as three Franklinton pitchers combined to strike out 11 in a no-hit effort. Sutton Vail scored the only run after getting hit by a pitch, stealing second and third, and scoring on a passed ball.
Winnsboro 12 JP10U 2 (Game Two): Jackson Parish scored two runs in the top of the fifth inning when Joedy Wiggins opened the frame with a walk, and Cameron Pardue doubled, his second hit of the contest, to lead JP10U, with both scoring on a passed ball and a wild pitch. The determined rally was not near enough, though, to offset the big Winnsboro lead. Sutton Vail, Jeremiah Jones, and Tate Hall also contributed with a hit each in the elimination contest.
Jackson Parish 9U Baseball All-Stars
Manager: NIck Sampey Coaches: Brent Carpenter, Darion Hudson Team Members: Kaden Blewer, Cole Burton, Calop Carpenter, Davis Hudson, Rafe Lewter, Kase Mathews, Reed McMillan, Levi Norred, Brennon Otwell, Rowan Sampey, Anderson Smiley, Lucas Womack State Tournament Information: One of 12 teams to qualify for the double-elimination state tournament played in Bossier City, LA. JP9U began by beating Winnsboro 7-4 before falling to Minden 17-0 and dropping into the elimination side of the bracket. A thrilling 8-7 rally against Ponchatoula kept the locals alive, but an 11-2 loss to Alexandria ended tournament play with a 2-2 record.
JP9U 7 Winnsboro 4 (Game One): Six runs in the bottom of the third inning lifted JP9U to victory in the tourney opener. Down 2-1, JP9U tied the game when Lucas Womack walked and scored on Rowan’s Sampey’s single. Davis Hudson then hit a one-out single to give JP9U the lead, followed by Calop Carpenter getting hit by a pitch, Levi Norred drawing a walk, Anderson Smiley hitting a single, and both Rafe Lewter and Kase Mathews reaching base via a base on balls to cap off the big six-run rally. Kaden Blewer, Reed McMillan and Mathews combined to limit Winnsboro to just two hits.
Minden 17 JP9U 0 (Game Two): The locals were limited to just an Anderson Smiley single, and Minden erupted for 11 first-inning runs to win the “run rule” shortened contest that was called after two and a half innings of play that sent JP9U to the elimination side of the bracket.
JP9U 8 Ponchatoula 7 (Game Three): Easily the most thrilling game of the tourney to date, JP9U fallied twice to first tie the game after falliing five runs down and then win it in “walk-off” style when Rowan Sampey and Anderson Smiley both scored on passed balls for the second and third run of the inning scored without getting a hit after Ponchatoula had taken a 7-5 lead heading into the bottom of the sixth inning. Lucas Womack and Sampey opened up the decisive frame by drawing walks, with Womack scoring on Kaden Blewer’s sacrifice fly out, leading to Sampey and Smiley putting the game away. It was the second big rally of the game for JP9U as after spotting Ponchatoula a 5-0 lead, Reed McMillan opened the bottom of the fourth inning with a single and went to second when Lucas Womack drew a walk. Blewer then doubled in both and scored on Levi Norred’s triple, which also plated Calop Carpenter, who had gotten hit by a pitch, before scoring himself on a passed ball.
Alexandria 11 JP9U 2 (Game Four): Bouyed by the big rally win, JP9U came out by scoring two runs in the top of the first when Rowan Sampey walked on four pitches and Kaden Blewer hit a single to set up a Levi Norred pop-up that was misplayed by the Alexandria second baseman that scored both. Sadly that would be all the offense JP9U would muster and Alexandria put the game away by scoring 9 runs in the third inning to eliminate the locals with a 2-2 tournament record.
In a letter submitted by Quitman High School Principal Chris Cavin, important school policy changes for students in grades 6-12 were outlined. The focus of the changes was on cell phones, smartwatches, and uniforms to be worn during physical education classes.
United States Armed Services Veteran and Jackson Parish Resident Rick Barlow with his commemorative Veterans Quilt
The Heritage Quilt Guild (HQG) of Jonesboro held its regular monthly meeting on Wednesday, July 1st, in the Fellowship Hall of the Jonesboro-Hodge Methodist Church. Highlighting the always entertaining and informative session was the HQG presenting US Armed Services Veteran Rick Barlow with a special Veterans Quilt stitched by guild members.
Members in attendance also enjoyed a very inspiring program by Angela Yarbrough, founder of Amadea, who shared the organization’s meaningful mission and her personal story. The meeting concluded with members demonstrating their handiwork during “Show and Tell” time.
Heritage Quilt Guild of Jonesboro meets at 9:00 am on the first Wednesday of every month and has a sit-and-sew session at 9:30 am on the third Wednesday of the month. Their purpose is to provide a means for quilters and guild lovers to promote the appreciation and preservation of quilts and to share their skills so the art will be handed down to future generations.
The Jackson Parish Chapter of the Grambling University National Alumni Association will meet on Tuesday, July 7th, at 5:30 pm at Travelers’ Rest Baptist Church, located at 409 Congo Street in Jonesboro, LA. Local chapter President James E. Bradford encourages all existing and prospective members to attend.
(l-r) Alivia Anderson, Taraje’ Wiley, Santiago Zuniga, and Anthony Paggett, Jr.
Four Jackson Parish School District high school students have earned their AWS Level 2 Advanced Welding Certification through the Fast Forward Summer Program at Jonesboro-Hodge High School. Congratulations go to Alivia Anderson, Taraje’ Wiley, Santiago Zuniga, and Anthony Paggett, Jr.
“Their dedication, perseverance, and commitment to building valuable workforce skills have led to this outstanding accomplishment. Congratulations to each of these students on this well-deserved achievement! We are excited to see where their skills and determination take them as they continue to build bright futures.” – Jackson Parish School District
The 2026-27 varsity cheer team from Weston High School recently participated in the Universal Cheerleaders Association (UCA) at Louisiana Tech University, which was held June 22-25, bringing home several top awards, including the coveted Leadership Award. WHS also won 2nd place in Cheer and 3rd place in Camp Routine.
“These girls represented our school with heart, character, and leadership all week long, and I couldn’t be prouder, said WHS Cheer Coaches Alyssa Hogue and Shayla Heard. “The awards are exciting, but the way this team encouraged others, worked together, and represented Weston is what means the most!”
Ten residents of Forest Haven Nursing Home and Rehabilitation Center in Jonesboro, LA celebrated birthdays in June. The administration and staff wish helped make the special day memorable by presenting each an honorary birthday cake. Happy Birthday wishes go to the following:
Wanda Antley, 69 Michael Bradford, 66 Stamelia Cobbs, 57 Polly Griffith, 86 Delores Hill, 82 Marilyn Knauf, 71 Alice Morris, 83 Mary Roden, 86 Joel Smith, 62 Marilyn Treadway, 90
Happy Birthday
Slideshow of those celebrating birthdays in June To view, click on the arrows to the left and right
With Magical Entertainment, Willy T’s Sno-Cones, and other activities in store, the Summer Reading Program at the Jackson Parish Library will come to an end on Thursday, July 9th, after five very entertaining and educational weeks at both the Jonesboro and Chatham branches.
The week will begin with the Jonesboro Police Department making a guest appearance on Monday, July 6th, first at the Jonesboro Branch at 10:00 am and then at the Chatham Branch at 2:00 pm. On Tuesday, July 7th, it is “Build Your Own Bouquet” time as Alway’s Eva’s Flowers owner Terri Jones will be at the Chatham Branch at 2:00 pm to show participants how to make beautiful flower arrangements. On Wednesday, July 8th, Shannan Chevalier of LSU AgCenter will be at the Jonesboro Branch at 10:00 am and in Chatham at 2:00 pm, followed by the climactic ending on Thursday.
Heading Home! 4-H Members preparing to come back from Summer Camp
One of the most enjoyable times of the year for members of the various 4-H clubs across Jackson Parish came to an end on Thursday, July 2nd, when the group of 36 campers and counselors returned home from a very entertaining and educational three days at summer camp held at the Grant Walker 4-H Educational Center in Pollock, LA.
During their visit to the camp located deep in the heart of Kisatchie National Forest, participants enjoyed a tremendous amount of recreation time, experienced the beauty of nature, received educational opportunities, made new friends from across the state, and even took part in a talent show.
“Hot days and memories made. Days at Camp Grant Walker are always worth it,” said Jackson Parish 4-H Director Kristi Bourgeois. “The campers gained knowledge, became independent, and loved camp life!
Camp Assembly!
About Grant Walker 4-H Educational Center
Since 1922, Grant Walker 4-H Educational Center has been a place where Louisiana youth discover new interests, build lifelong friendships, and gain the confidence to lead. What began with a group of young campers gathering beneath the towering pines of Kisatchie National Forest has grown into a treasured tradition that has impacted generations across our state.
The camp’s story started on land owned by local businessman Rufus Walker, who later donated the property to the state in 1936. His generosity paved the way for permanent improvements, and by 1938, the Works Progress Administration began constructing many of the iconic buildings that still stand today, including the arts and crafts building, educational building, Greek theatre, main office, and dance pavilion.
Over the decades, Grant Walker evolved to meet the needs of Louisiana’s youth. New bunkhouses, recreational facilities, and expanded programming helped strengthen the camp experience while maintaining the values that have always been at its heart. Through hands-on learning, outdoor adventure, teamwork, and leadership opportunities, campers have developed skills that extend far beyond their time at camp.
Former campers often share stories of independence, personal growth, and friendships formed during their summers at Grant Walker. Those experiences continue today, as more than 3,500 youth attend camp each summer, creating memories and discovering their potential through the Louisiana 4-H program.
For more than 100 years, Grant Walker has been more than just a summer camp—it has been a place where confidence is built, leaders are developed, and traditions are passed from one generation to the next. As we reflect on this remarkable history, we celebrate the countless campers, counselors, volunteers, and staff who have helped shape the legacy of Grant Walker 4-H Educational Center.
(Last week, a nearby lightning bolt fried the modem on my computer. I had it replaced, but it brought to mind an article I had written years ago about my introduction to computers. It seems fitting today to share that story.)
HORROR TALES OF MODEMS, MOUSES AND DOWNLOADS
As much as I depend on my computer, the thing sometimes nearly scares me to death. Recently, it put the hoo-doo on me.
When I was preparing to retire from my 30-year career as a social worker, I already knew how I’d be spending my time after retirement. I’d update my status as an outdoor writer from part-time to full-time.
I was faced with a big decision. Should I continue to write articles in long hand, scratching out and editing before typing the final product on my typewriter, or would I take the plunge into the computer world?
My journalist friend, the late Wiley Hilburn, occasionally wrote about his mortal fear of computers. If Wiley could, week after week, crank out those incredible columns of his on an old standard clunker, maybe I should stick with what had worked to this point for me.
I’d attend a writer’s conference, and they’d talk about desktop publishing and Windows and Page Makers and Mac, and somebody would ask me which I used. I’d shuffle my feet, cough nervously, and mumble something about not having made up my mind just yet. I felt like I was in the Indy 500 driving a Studebaker. I was behind the times, and I knew it, but didn’t want to admit I didn’t know diddly squat about computers.
I’d stand in front of the computer store, watching until all the salesmen were busy before going in. Cautiously circling a model on display, I would survey the square eye as if it were a caged tiger at the zoo and I didn’t want to venture too close. I wouldn’t see the salesman walking up behind me, and I’d jump as if nudged with a cattle prod when he, all preppy and computer-savvy, would ask if I needed help.
“Just looking”, I’d say.
I had already learned to get out of there quickly before he started pointing out the features on the slick model before me and making me feel like the ultimate doofus as he described the serial ports, the mouse, and the modem.
I wouldn’t see the salesman walking up behind me, and I’d jump as if nudged with a cattle prod when he, all preppy and computer-savvy, would ask if I needed help. One day, feeling particularly bold, I stayed for the whole sales pitch although I didn’t have a clue as to what he was talking about. He finished and looked at me, anticipating a question about what server I should select.
I left him slack-jawed when I asked, “How do you turn it on?”
He flipped a switch, and there were beeps and chirps, and the glass eye magically came to life. The salesman began his pitch again and once more, I stopped him in his tracks with “How do you type on it?”
He was finally getting the picture, I surmised, that he was dealing with a real goober. I sat down tentatively in front of the screen and typed out, “Now is the tome for ale doog men….”
He showed me how to correct my mistakes and edit what I had written, how to store it, how to bring it back to the screen, and how to print what I had written. Finally, the thing began making sense, and I gradually lost my fear of damaging the machine by simply typing on it or it nuking me. I bought it, took it home, and a whole new world opened for me. Then why do computers still give me the willies sometimes?
I had almost completed my article for the week, a warm whimsical piece on the approach of fall and hunting seasons. Without warning, we lost power, and my story was dumped into a black hole, I assumed gone forever. When the power came back on, try as I might, I couldn’t come up with those poignant phrases that had so easily rolled off my finger tips moments before.
So there I sat, pen and yellow tablet in hand, writing with the same tools I used twenty years ago about how modern technology had done a number on me.
I’m thinking that maybe Wiley could have been on to something here.
“Asking a friend for help with making the computer work.” Courtesy photo
FISHING REPORT
CANEY LAKE – Bass are around the grass early and hitting topwaters. Later they’re around deep drops and channels. Soft plastics and cranks baits are working best. Crappie are around the deeper tops and are hitting jigs and shiners. Bream are slow to fair. 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 on the flats and are fair on shiners or jigs. Some big bass are being caught early on topwaters and later by flipping the trees and lily pads with oversized soft plastics. The bream bite has slowed with fair catches made. For latest information, contact the Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707. OUACHITA RIVER – Bass fishing is best up the river where there is more clear water. Crank baits and soft plastics are picking up some. Crappie are fair in the river lakes. For latest information, contact the Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707. LAKE D’ARBONNE – Bass are best on topwaters early and crank baits and soft plastics later on secondary points. Crappie are in their summer patterns in deep water in the channel and channel edges and hitting jigs and shiners. The bream have slowed now that the water and air temperature has warmed. 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 with jigs and shiners working best. Bass are in the shallows early hitting topwaters and in deeper water around around the channel edges later. Soft plastics and crank baits are picking up some. Night fishing is best now that the weather is turning hot. 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 rising and should start falling around July 5. Catfish are being caught on trotlines and buffalo caught in nets. Crappie and bass have not started to hit but barfish are starting to bite. For info call Surplus City Landing at 318/467-2259.
Doug said, “I drive, therefore I am,” and honestly, I’m starting to trust my version more.
I spend so many hours with my body attached to a car that I’m basically a mobile Methodist. I know I 20 like the back of my hand—every bump, every dip, every spot where my cell signal disappears as if it’s entering the Witness Protection Program. I know where law enforcement hides, waiting to catch those who treat the speed limit as a suggestion from a friend rather than a command from the state. I know exactly how far I can push the fuel light before I’m praying in tongues at the next exit. If you see me on the Interstate, give me a wave. I’ll wave back. I’m friendly like that.
Driving entertains me. I read bumper stickers like they’re sacred texts. If you see me tailgating, don’t worry—I’m not being aggressive; I’m just trying to discern whether your “Coexist” sticker is faded or ironic. And I’ve developed a spiritual gift: I can tell when someone is talking on the phone while driving. They always slow down. Always. It’s like the car senses the conversation and decides to meditate.
I was headed to Bossier City when the nice truck in front of me decided it was time for a mid-journey spa treatment. He hit his windshield washer at 70 mph. At my following distance, his washer fluid became my washer fluid. A surprise baptism by Rain X. I just smiled and thanked God for the improvisational rain shower. Louisiana weather is unpredictable, but apparently so are Louisiana drivers.
Now here’s where the sermon sneaks in.
My actions can change your attitude, and your attitude interprets my actions. That’s the whole ballgame. I could’ve gotten mad. I could’ve imagined he did it on purpose. I could’ve turned on my wipers and smeared my windshield into a Monet painting. Or I could interpret it factually: I was following too closely behind a man with a dirty windshield who needed to see better. Or I could interpret it spiritually: God’s grace falls on the just, the unjust, and the guy behind the truck who wasn’t expecting a windshield blessing.
We don’t live in a vacuum. Our actions splash onto the people behind us—sometimes literally. That’s why Scripture tells us to be careful how we walk. We don’t want to trip someone else up. But the other side is just as important: I’m not responsible for what you do to me, but I am responsible for what I let your actions do inside me.
The world is small. The road is shared. And whether we like it or not, we’re all windshield washers for somebody.
So drive kindly. Live kindly. And if you must baptize the car behind you, at least use the good fluid.
Vacation Bible School is scheduled to begin at many churches in Jackson Parish. A schedule and themes of Vacation Bible Schools at area churches are shown below.
Vacation Bible Schools in Jackson Parish
Weston Baptist Church 112 Weston Church Road Jonesboro, LA Date: July 7-10 Time: 5:30 – 8:30 pm Theme: Illumination Station – Sharing a light on who Jesus really is
Jonesboro Assembly of God 1490 South Hudson Avenue Jonesboro, LA Date: July 13-17 Time: 5:30 – 8:00 pm Theme: Illumination Station
McDonald Memorial Baptist Church 1676 Hwy 4 Jonesboro, LA Date: July 13-17 Time: 5:30 – 8:00 pm Theme: Magnified
Beech Springs Baptist Church 3942 Beech Springs Rd Quitman, LA Date: July 13-17 Time: 6:00 – 8:30 pm Theme: Illumination Station
First Baptist Chatham 12118 Hwy 4 Chatham, LA Date: July 13-17 Time: 5:30 – 8:30 pm Theme: Illumination Station
Hodge Baptist Church 1100 South Holly Street Hodge, LA Date: July 20-24 Time: 8:00 am – 12:00 pm Theme: Illumination Station
Grace Community Church 814 Pershing Hwy Jonesboro, LA Date: July 24-25 Time: 6:00 – 8:30 pm Theme: Radical Kids VBS: God’s Masterpiece
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.
PUBLIC NOTICE
SOBRIETY & HIGHWAY SAFETY CHECKPOINT
SHERIFF’S SALE
PARISH OF JACKSON STATE OF LOUISIANA
21ST MORTGAGE CORPORATION #38067 JESSE RAY JONES AND DOROTHY T. CROUSE
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 8th day of July, 2026, between the hours governing judicial sales, the following property to wit:
2021 JESSUP 16 X 76 MOBILE HOME BEARING SERIAL NUMBER JHW03355TX21
Seized as the property of the above-named defendant and will be sold to satisfy said Writ and all cost, sale to be made for cash WITHOUT benefit of appraisal.
BRENT BARNETT, SHERIFF
EX-OFFICIO, AUCTIONEER
July 1, 2026
SHERIFF’S SALE
PARISH OF JACKSON STATE OF LOUISIANA
VANDERBILT MORTGAGE AND FINANCE, INC #38157 MARLON M. JARRELL, JR., MARLON JARRELL, JR., MARLON JARRELL
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 5th day of August, 2026, between the hours governing judicial sales, the following property to wit:
2006 CMH LOCEL MOBILE HOME BEARING SEARING NUMBER CS2008343TNAB, IMMOBILIZED ONTO AND INCLUDING THE FOLLOWING DESCRIBED PROPERTY: LOT 2, 3, 4, & 5 OF BLOCK 1 OF EROS, LOUISIANA, AS SHOWN BY ORIGINAL PLAT AND SURVEY OF SAID TOWN OF EROS, NOW ON FILE AND OF RECORD IN THE RECORDER’S OFFICE OF JACKSON PARISH, LOUISIANA, TOGETHER WITH ALL IMPROVEMENTS THEREON AND APPURTENANCES THEREUNTO BELONGING, SITUATED IN EROS, JACKSON PARISH, LOUISIANA.
Seized as the property of the above-named defendant and will be sold to satisfy said Writ and all cost, sale to be made for cash WITH benefit of appraisal.
BRENT BARNETT, SHERIFF EX-OFFICIO, AUCTIONEER
June 24, 2026 July 29, 2026
SHERIFF’S SALE
PARISH OF JACKSON STATE OF LOUISIANA
SELENE FINANCE, LP #38172 SKYLOR HOUSE, SKYLOR STEPHEN HOUSE, WHITNEY HOUSE, WHITNEY MORGAN HOUSE
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 12th day of August, 2026, between the hours governing judicial sales, the following property to wit:
A certain tract of land being situated in the Southeast quarter of the Southeast quarter of Section 19, and in the Southwest quarter of the Southwest quarter of Section 20, Township 15 North, Range 1 West, Land District North of Red River, Jackson Parish, Louisiana, and being more particularly described as follows:
Commence at a 1 1/2” pipe found marking the Southeast corner of Section 19, township 15 North, Range 1 West, Land District North of Red River, Jackson Parish, Louisiana, for the POINT OF BEGINNING; thence proceed North 89 degrees 46 minutes 10 seconds West along the South line of the Southeast quarter of the Southeast quarter of said section 19, a distance of 1,336.51 feet to a P.K. Nail set in Sandy Ridge Road and marking the Southwest corner of the Southeast quarter of the Southeast quarter of said Section 19; thence proceed North 00 degrees 22 minutes 13 seconds West along the West line of the Southeast quarter of the Southeast quarter of said Section 19, a distance of 4.97 feet to the center of said Sandy Ridge Road; thence proceed the following courses along the center of Sandy Ridge Road: North 42 degrees 47 minutes 41 seconds East, a distance of 16.08 feet; North 53 degrees 03 minutes 48 seconds East, a distance of 56.17 feet; North 55 degrees 00 minutes 24 seconds East, a distance of 60.56 feet; North 55 degrees 26 minutes 45 seconds East, a distance of 119.18 feet; North 54 degrees 13 minutes 51 seconds East, a distance of 118.63 feet; North 51 degrees 35 minutes 36 seconds East, a distance of 55.43 feet; North 48 degrees 58 minutes 10 seconds East, a distance of 56.57 feet; North 45 degrees 07 minutes 08 seconds East, a distance of 56.26 feet; North 39 degrees 36 minutes 52 seconds East, a distance of 56.25 feet; North 34 degrees 38 minutes 27 seconds East, a distance of 54.39 feet; North 32 degrees 36 minutes 33 seconds East, a distance of 56.44 feet; North 30 degrees 36 minutes 51 seconds East, a distance of 49.18 feet; North 26 degrees 31 minutes 42 seconds East, a distance of 49.91 feet; North 20 degrees 13 minutes 21 seconds East, a distance of 52.69 feet; North 12 degrees 10 minutes 41 seconds East, a distance of 51.47 feet; North 07 degrees 54 minutes 35 seconds East, a distance of 49.51 feet; thence leaving said Sandy Ridge Road, proceed South 81 degrees 40 minutes 31 seconds East, a distance of 731.75 feet to a 3/4 inch iron pipe found on the East line of the Southeast quarter of the southeast quarter of said Section 19; thence proceed South 89 degrees 51 minutes 40 seconds East, distance of 398.20 feet to a set 5/8 inch rebar; thence proceed South 00 degrees 15 minutes 02 seconds East, a distance of 604.29 feet to a 5/8 inch rebar set on the South line of the Southwest quarter of the Southwest quarter of Section 20, Township 15 North, Range 1 West, Land District North of Red River, Jackson Parish, Louisiana; thence proceed North 89 degrees 51 minutes 40 seconds West along the South line of the Southwest quarter of the Southwest quarter of said Section 20, a distance of 394.59 feet to the POINT OF BEGINNING, containing 20.000 Acres, more or less, and being subject to the right-of-way of Sandy Ridge Road and being further subject to all other rights of way, easements and servitudes of record and/or use. Together with all buildings and improvements located thereon (“Property”).
Seized as the property of the above-named defendant and will be sold to satisfy said Writ and all cost, sale to be made for cash WITHOUT benefit of appraisal.
BRENT BARNETT, SHERIFF
EX-OFFICIO, AUCTIONEER
July 1, 2026 August 5, 2026
CAREER OPPORTUNITY
CAREER OPPORTUNITY
CAREER OPPORTUNITY
Jackson Parish Ambulance Service District – This is more than a job, it is a Calling! From the developing Pre-Hospital Blood administration program to Dialysis transports, from Community Paramedicine to the East Coast of the United States for Disaster Response. We are forward-thinking and seek to hire the best Paramedics to accomplish our mission of serving Jackson Parish and being a blessing to our neighbors.
Part-Time and Full-Time positions available for all levels of experience (Tuition Reimbursement available with an Employment agreement for Full-Time status) Part-Time EMT and AEMT positions are also available.
For more information, call the JPASD Office at 318-259-2877 or by Fax: 318-259-2099 or go to: www.jpasd.com
Mr. Frederick Ellis gained his heavenly wings on June 24th, 2026 at the age of 53 years old. After friends and family visited in the Paradise Funeral Home Chapel in Jonesboro, LA on Monday, June 29th, a graveside service was held at St. Paul Cemetery in Bienville, LA.
(Jonesboro Police Department Report) – On June 20, 2026, at approximately 8:30 a.m., the Jonesboro Police Department responded to Sabine Bank on Highway 167 in Jonesboro in reference to a reported burglary.
Upon arrival, officers observed multiple signs of forced entry, including a broken window and the bank’s interior in disarray. Officers immediately secured the scene and launched a thorough investigation. As a result of the investigation, detectives were able to identify a suspect.
Several days later, the same suspect was located at another local bank where they were allegedly attempting to break into that facility as well. Officers responded immediately and took the suspect into custody without incident.
This case highlights the importance of a thorough investigation, cooperation between this agency and concerned citizens. The Jonesboro Police Department remains committed to holding those who commit crimes accountable while ensuring the safety of our residents and local businesses.
Because this case is now part of the judicial process, no further details will be released at this time.
The Jackson Parish Police Jury announces that, beginning on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, St. Peters Road will be closed for a culvert repair. Located approximately 0.4 miles from Longstraw Road, the repair is required because the culvert under the road has washed out, creating a safety hazard. This area will remain closed until further notice.
St. Peters Road (or Saint Peters Road) in Jackson Parish is located in the northeastern rural sector of the parish, near the Choudrant and Quitman areas. It runs near the intersection of Longstraw Road and extends through a rural corridor that connects to the neighboring Lincoln Parish area.
The Jackson Parish Police Jury will update the public when the road is reopened and express thanks to residents for their patience and understanding during the repair process.
The Greater North Louisiana Community Development Corporation (GNLCDC) announces that its annual fan giveaway will take place from 9:00 – 11:00 am on Wednesday, July 1st at 100 Jimmie Davis Blvd. in Jonesboro, LA. Targeting Seniors and those with health challenges, come pick up a free fan on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last to help you get through this super hot summer weather.
Local businesses and individuals supporting community needs are: Barksdale Federal Credit Union, Hodge Bank, Jackson Parish Clerk of Court Rachel Shively, Protective Insurance Company, Jackson Parish Sheriff Brent Barnett, Jonesboro Mayor J. “Spike” Harris, Jackson Parish Tax Assessor Glen Kirkland, Joe Moore Lawn Service LLC, P-Deezy Fresh Cuts, Mitchell’s Pharmacy, Leslie Thompson, Jonesboro Assistant Police Chief Warren Johnson, Pastor Austin Ballott, and Larry Hicks
I am truly humbled and honored by the confidence you have placed in me by electing me to serve as your Sheriff. This victory is not mine alone. It belongs to every volunteer who gave their time, every supporter who offered encouragement, every family member who sacrificed alongside us, and every citizen who participated in this election.
I want to sincerely thank everyone who supported our campaign, as well as those who supported another candidate. Campaigns come to an end, but our responsibility to Jackson Parish continues. I will be the Sheriff for every citizen of this parish, and I am committed to earning and keeping your trust each and every day.
Throughout this campaign, I spoke often about dependable leadership, professionalism, transparency, and service. Those were not simply campaign promises; they are the principles that will guide every decision I make as your Sheriff. I remain committed to leading with integrity, treating every person with fairness, dignity, and respect, supporting the dedicated men and women of the Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office, and being a faithful steward of the trust you have placed in me.
I want to express my sincere appreciation to the deputies and employees of the Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office. Your dedication, professionalism, and commitment to serving others are what make this office strong. I look forward to serving alongside you as we continue building an organization that reflects the highest standards of public service.
To my family, thank you for your love, encouragement, and sacrifice throughout this journey. I could not have done this without you. I am also grateful to my church family, my friends, and the many people who lifted us up with their prayers, support, and encouragement along the way.
Above all, I thank God for His grace, His guidance, and His many blessings. I pray for the wisdom to lead with humility, the courage to make difficult decisions with integrity, and the strength to faithfully serve the people of Jackson Parish.
Now the work begins. Together, we will continue to strengthen public safety, support those who serve, build trust with our communities, and work to ensure that the Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office remains an organization our citizens can be proud of.
Thank you again for your confidence, your support, and the opportunity to serve as your Sheriff. I will never take that responsibility for granted, and I will work every day to earn the trust you have placed in me.
