The administration of Forest Haven Nursing Home and Rehabilitation Center in Jonesboro is pleased to announce that applications are now being accepted until February 27th for CNA Training Classes for newly employed team members. Interviews are also ongoing with the classes expected to begin on March 6th. 

Forest Haven Residents Celebrate Mardi Gras

Going with the idea of “since you can’t make it to the French Quarter for Mardi Gras, we’ll bring the French Quarter to you!” the administration and staff of Forest Haven Nursing Home and Rehabilitation Center helped residents “laissez les bons temps rouler” (let the good time roll). See below for a pictorial of the celebration. 

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(Monroe, Louisiana) — Louisiana Delta Community College will welcome more than 1,200 high school students from 21 regional high schools to its Monroe Campus on February 25 for its annual LDCC Day event.

LDCC Day is designed to introduce prospective students to the wide range of academic and workforce programs available at the College. Throughout the two-day event, students will participate in interactive, hands-on demonstrations led by faculty and staff across multiple program areas.

Students will explore career pathways in high-demand fields including healthcare, industrial technology, business, skilled trades, and other technical and transfer programs. Faculty will provide live demonstrations, lab experiences, and program overviews designed to help students better understand career opportunities available through postsecondary education.

“LDCC Day provides students with an opportunity to see firsthand how education connects directly to career opportunities in our region,” said Elizabeth Ford “By engaging students through hands-on learning, we are helping them envision their future.”

The event supports LDCC’s mission to increase access to education and workforce training throughout Northeast Louisiana. With more than 1,200 students attending, LDCC Day represents one of the College’s largest annual recruitment and outreach initiatives.

For more information about LDCC programs, visit ladelta.edu

 

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Weston High School is excited to announce that 25 young ladies have been selected to represent the school as junior high and varsity cheerleaders for the 2026 – 27 school year. 

Named to the varsity squad are Bailey Brown, Allison Morgan, Marlecia Paggett, Brooklyn Slaughter, Tessa Watlington, Jaylin Williams, Carly Jo Griffin, Sydnie Huie, Kiley Trosclair, Carlynn Waters, Eliza Crocker, Jordan Davis, Allie Middleton, and Evie Delaney. 

Representing WHS on the junior high team will be Amelia Onopa, Braelynn Turner, Kember Cuthrell, Henley House, Kyndall Huckaby, Ke’Niya Lard, Aspen Murphy, Ella Siddon, Jasneet Singh, Landry Thomas, and Ryan Kate Wyatt.

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William J. “Bill” Blythe Jr. had recently been honorably discharged from the Army and had just been hired as an equipment salesman by the Mankee Equipment Company of Chicago.

Immediately following World War II, so many soldiers were returning home and looking for work that jobs were scarce. 29-year-old Bill could find no work in his hometown of Hope, Arkansas, and was lucky to find work even if it required him to relocate to the “windy city.” It could not have come at a better time.

Bill’s wife, 22-year-old Virginia Dell Cassiday, was six months pregnant. After calling home with the happy news, Bill began the 750-mile drive back to Hope, Arkansas, to prepare the family for the move.

Just before midnight on May 17, 1946, Bill had driven about half of the 755 miles to Hope when, about three miles west of Sikeston, Missouri, one of the front tires on Bill’s 1942 Buick sedan blew out. Bill lost control of the car, and it rolled over twice before coming to a stop on the side of the Brown Spur drainage ditch along Highway 60.

Sikeston was surrounded by drainage ditches to help prevent flooding. Bill suffered a head injury and crawled out of the wrecked car. He could hear the sounds of passing cars and could see their headlights as they passed. He began crawling up the steep embankment toward the highway. As he was crawling, he slipped and fell into the drainage ditch, which contained four feet of water. There, he drowned.

Virginia was devastated. Three months after the accident, she had her child and named him William J. Blythe III in honor of her late husband. Everyone called him Billy. Virginia, now a single parent, went to nursing school in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Virginia’s parents took care of Billy while she was away. In 1950, Virginia returned to Hope and went to work as a nurse. In that same year, she met and married a car dealership owner named Roger.

In 1956, Roger and Virginia had a son whom they named Roger Jr. At some point, Billy Blythe began using his stepfather’s last name, and, in 1962, Billy legally changed his last name so that he and his half-brother would have the same last name.

In the following year, Billy was selected to be a delegate to Boys Nation, a special youth leadership conference held in Washington D.C. Billy was among the other boys from Boys Nation who, along with the Girls Nation, were invited to the Rose Garden at the White House to meet President John F. Kennedy. Billy was one of the first in line to shake JFK’s hand. Billy said later that meeting JFK had a profound impact on his life.

Imagine just for a second that Bill Blythe’s car wreck never occurred. Billy Blythe III would probably have been born in Chicago. The whole trajectory of his life would have been different. He probably would not have become President of the United States. If he had, we would know him as Bill Blythe rather than Bill Clinton.

 

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To have Public / Legal Notices, Business Services, Job Opportunities, Items for sale, and Wanted to Buy, Items published – send an email to: jpjjacksonla@gmail.com  or call 318-480-1206. Possible costs are dependent on the content.

SHERIFF’S SALE

PARISH OF JACKSON
STATE OF LOUISIANA

CENTURY NEXT BANK
vs 37988
S & G LOGGING CO., LLC

By virtue of a Writ of Seizure and Sale issued out of the Honorable Second Judicial District Court, Parish of Jackson, State of Louisiana, and to me directed, I have seized and taken into my possession and will offer for sale for cash at the Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office, Jonesboro, Louisiana, on Wednesday, the 11th day of March. 2026. Between the hours governing judicial sales, the following property to wit:

(A) 2016 TIGERCAT LOADER MODEL 234B, SERIAL NO. 2342263
(B )2016 TIGERCAT LOADER, MODEL 234B SERIAL NO. 2342386
(C) 2019 TIGERCAT SKIDDER MODEL 630e, SERIAL NO. 6304809
AND
ALL EQUIPMENT INCLUDING A 2021 JOHN DEERE 948L SKIDDER, SERIAL NO. 1DW948LBTMF712104

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

BRENT BARNETT, SHERIFF
EX-OFFICIO, AUCTIONEER

SHERIFF’S SALE

PARISH OF JACKSON
STATE OF LOUISIANA

21st MORTGAGE CORPORATION
vs 38035
ALLEN WADE OUGEL

By virtue of a Writ of Seizure and Sale issued out of the Honorable Second Judicial District Court, Parish of Jackson, State of Louisiana, and to me directed, I have seized and taken into my possession and will offer for sale for cash at the Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office, Jonesboro, Louisiana, on Wednesday, the 11th day of March, 2026. Between the hours governing judicial sales, the following property, to wit:

2022 CHAM SKYLINE 32X56 MOBILE HOME SERIAL NUMBERS #025000HA001970A AND #025000HA001970B

Seized as the property of the above-named defendant and will be sold to satisfy said Writ and all costs, sale to be made for cash WITHOUT the benefit of appraisal.

BRENT BARNETT, SHERIFF
EX-OFFICIO, AUCTIONEER

SHERIFF’S SALE

PARISH OF JACKSON
STATE OF LOUISIANA

TRAINA DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION
vs 37954
SHEDRICK GREEN III

By virtue of a Writ of Seizure and Sale issued out of the Honorable Second Judicial District Court, Parish of Jackson, State of Louisiana, and to me directed, I have seized and taken into my possession and will offer for sale for cash at the Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office, Jonesboro, Louisiana, on Wednesday, the 18TH day of March. 2026. Between the hours governing judicial sales, the following property, to wit:

LOT 36, UNIT 10, BOOKER T. WASHINGTON SUBDIVISION, JONESBORO, LA 71251

Seized as the property of the above-named defendant and will be sold to satisfy said Writ and all cost, sale to be made for cash WITHOUT the benefit of appraisal.

BRENT BARNETT, SHERIFF
EX-OFFICIO AUCTIONEER

02/04/26
03/11/26

CAREER OPPORTUNITY

Jackson Parish Library
Job Description
Tier: Level IV
Title: Bookmobile/Outreach Coordinator

Reports to: Level V to VIII
Supervises: Level I to III
Experience: High School Diploma or GED and 6 years of job-related experience.
Pay Rate/Hour: $12.00 – $15.00
Pay Rate/Annual: $22,880.00 – $31,200.00
Full Time

Duties:
• Maintain the bookmobile by daily inspection to ensure the vehicle is in good working order; check tires, fuel, oil, generator, etc., and report any problems to the supervisor; keep the inside of the vehicle clean and tidy.
• Maintain organized records of bookmobile maintenance and inspections.
• Schedule regular maintenance, and/or repair and cleaning of the outside as needed.
• Drive the Bookmobile to scheduled stops, appointments, maintenance/repair sites, special events, etc.
• Plan, prep, and facilitate Bookmobile and Outreach programs.
• Assist with in-house circulation and reference duties when needed.
• Assist with Summer Reading and other Programming planning, coordinate with Supervisors, Youth Librarians, and Programming Librarians.
• Supervise and train staff as needed.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
This position will cross-train with other positions as deemed necessary by management.

Requirements:
• 18 yrs. of age or older.
• Maintain a Chauffeur’s License; able and willing to drive bookmobile.
• Successful completion of a two-month probationary period.
• Able to repeatedly lift 15-25 lbs.
• Be physically able to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Good knowledge of basic library methods, techniques, and procedures.
• Some knowledge of reader interest levels.
• Good ability to maintain library records and carry out library procedures.
• Considerable ability to understand and follow written and oral directions.
• Considerable ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers and the public and to
conduct oneself with tact and courtesy.
• Demonstrated ability to perform essential job duties.
• Ability to work under minimal supervision.

The Library offers benefits, including an excellent retirement plan, vacation, sick leave, and health insurance. Employees may advance to higher positions according to their abilities, qualifications, and based on the needs of the library.

Applications and resumes may be submitted by mail or in person at the Main Branch in Jonesboro, located at:
614 South Polk Avenue
Jonesboro, La 71251

or by email to mainbranch@jacksonparishlib.org

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this position. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all job duties performed by personnel so designated.

CAREER OPPORTUNITY

Jackson Parish Library
Job Description
Tier: Level III
Title: Bookmobile/Outreach Specialist

Reports to: Level IV to VIII
Supervises: None
Experience: High School Diploma or GED and 2 to 3 years of job-related experience.
Pay Rate/Hour: $8.00 – $12.00
Pay Rate/Annual: $16,640.00 – $ 22,880.00
Full Time

Duties:
Maintain the bookmobile by daily inspection to ensure the vehicle is in good working order; check tires, fuel, oil, generator, etc., and report any problems to the supervisor; keep the inside of the vehicle clean and tidy.
Maintain organized records of bookmobile maintenance and inspections.
Schedule regular maintenance and/or repair and cleaning of the outside as needed.
Drive the Bookmobile to scheduled stops, appointments, maintenance/repair sites, special events, etc.
Assist with Bookmobile and Outreach programs.
Assist with in-house circulation and reference duties when needed.
Performs other duties as assigned.
This position will cross-train with other positions as deemed necessary by management.
Requirements:
18 yrs. of age or older.
Maintain a Chauffeur’s License; able and willing to drive a bookmobile.
Successful completion of a two-month probationary period.
Able to repeatedly lift 15-25 lbs.
Be physically able to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation.
Good knowledge of basic library methods, techniques and procedures.
Some knowledge of reader interest levels.
Good ability to maintain library records and carry out library procedures.
Considerable ability to understand and follow written and oral directions.
Considerable ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers and the public and to conduct oneself
with tact and courtesy.
Demonstrated ability to perform essential job duties.
Ability to work under minimal supervision.

The Library offers benefits, including an excellent retirement plan, vacation, sick leave, and health insurance. Employees may advance to higher positions according to their abilities, qualifications, and based on the needs of the library.

Applications and resumes may be submitted by mail or in person at the Main Branch in Jonesboro, located at:
614 South Polk Avenue
Jonesboro, La 71251

or by email to mainbranch@jacksonparishlib.org

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this position. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all job duties performed by personnel so designated.

CAREER OPPORTUNITY

BUSINESS SERVICES

BUSINESS SERVICES

BUSINESS SERVICES

Ruffled Feathers Photography
208 Jimmie Davis Blvd
Jonesboro, LA|
(318) 395 – 1022

NONE

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This past week, Kim Whitman tendered her resignation as manager of the Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce, having served in the position since July 2025. In leaving to concentrate on working in ministry with husband Michael, who is pastor of Central Assembly of God in Winnfield, LA, Whitman provided the following statement. 

“I would like to express my sincere gratitude to all the businesses of Jackson Parish for the opportunity to serve you as the Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce manager. During my time here, I have had the privilege of meeting and working with so many amazing business owners who contribute to the vitality and character of our community.

In my relatively short tenure, I have witnessed firsthand the dedication and passion of local entrepreneurs. Our businesses bring energy, innovation, and heart to our parish. The ongoing collaborations with new members have shown me what is possible when the business community works together. 

I will miss the daily interactions with business owners, the shared enthusiasm at our events, and the opportunities to showcase the outstanding products and services that make Jackson Parish unique. I am confident that all businesses in Jackson Parish will continue to thrive. 

I wish the very best for every business in our parish. May the next manager for the JPCC bring exciting ideas, strong partnerships, and a forward-looking strategy that strengthens our local economy and enhances the quality of life for all residents. 

Thank you for the support, guidance, and friendship extended to me during my time here. I look forward to watching the business’s continued success from afar and to cheering on the bright future of Jackson Parish.”

With warm regards,

Kim Whitman

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In an effort to encourage a more nutritious diet and improve public health, on February 18th, the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) restrictions prohibiting the purchase of specific sugar-laden items with Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT)cards went into effect.

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Food Restriction Waiver restricts recipients from buying soft drinks, energy drinks, candy, gum, and mints using their benefits. These items can still be purchased with cash, debit, or other funds.

Items such as fruits and vegetables, meats, poultry, fish, dairy products l, breads, cereals, grains, and seeds and plants for growing food at home were unaffected by the change and still able to be purchased with an EBT card. 

For more information, email LAHelpU@la.gov or call 888-524-3578 (LAHELPU).

 

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The Black Cats feel might blue today after their pursuit of gold fell short with the pain they are suffering being dealt by the blue and gold of #6 seed Quitman High School, who beat #11 Florien 59-55 in the regional round of the LHSAA Class B tournament.

The hard-fought victory improved Quitman to 22-7 and vaulted the Lady Wolverines to the Quarterfinal round for the second year in a row, an accomplishment last achieved in 2000-21. Florien exits the playoffs with an 18-13 record.

While the lofty position that QHS has achieved is something that hasn’t taken place since before any member of the team was even born, eliminating Florien from the playoffs has become old hat as the victory marked the second time in three years that Quitman has emerged with the upper hand. 

“I am so proud of these girls. The way they played was incredible,” exalted winning coach Kyle Leach. “They have played their tails off this whole season, and their hard work and determination really showed tonight.” 

Pullig Power! Every so often, a player comes along who, the bigger the game, the better they play. Hallie Kate Pullig is such a player. The sophomore post player had already exhibited her flair for stepping up on the biggest stage when, as an 8th grader she was named MVP of the Class B state championship game in softball. Now she has done the same on the hardwood. Pullig played an integral role in the victory by posting a “double-double”  for only the second time this season as she scored 13 points and pulled down a team high 13 rebounds, both equaling her second-best effort ever in her brief career. 

“Hallie Kate played phenomenally and was a big reason we were successful in winning the game,” beamed Leach. “She was very strong in the paint and rebounded the ball as well as she has ever done! She was also unstoppable inside scoring the ball. Her toughness and desire were simply awesome!

Anna Again! As has been the case all year, Anna Claire Leach led Quitman in scoring, this time with 26 points. More importantly, when it became “crunch time,” Leach displayed the offensive ability that led her to become a 1000 career point scorer earlier this season in just a little over two years. This was exhibited by the scoring sensation taking over when Quitman was trailing 51-50 as she sank a free throw and made one of her six three pointers on the ensuing possession to give Quitman a 54-51 lead that the Lady Wolverines never relinquished.  

Strong support! While Leach and Pullig accounted for 39 of Quitman’s 59 points (66%), the Lady Wolverines would not be in the position of knocking on the state tournaments door were it not for the strong supporting cast of Allie Robertson, Kinsley Ponder, Kalisa Hall, Taylor Borland and Emma Walker, all who came up big in crucial moments during a tense second half. With the score tied at 31-31, it was Robertson, who made 3 three three-pointers in the contest, who sank a pair of “long bombs” that played a major role in helping Quitman turn back a concerted rally effort by Florien. Ponder, Hall, Borland, and Walker also came up with big baskets and important rebounds down the stretch that proved pivotal. 

 

“Allie hit some big threes, and Kinsley brought toughness and tenacity coming off the bench,” said Leach. “Then there is Taylor Borland, who is just like a pitbull. She is going to scrap and just get after people. Emma Walker played phenomenal defense and rebounded the ball well and Kalisa Hall came off the bench to give us some valuable minutes.” 

UP NEXT! Standing in the way of Quitman making the state tournament for the first time since 2001 and only the fourth time ever is the winner of fellow Jackson Parish hopeful Weston, seeded #14, who advanced by beating #19 Simsboro 67-51 in the first round and #3 seed Fairview, the back-to-back defending Class B state champion, which is also one of the most prolific teams in Louisiana girls basketball history and in the entire nation over the past 20 years. 

“Naturally, we are pulling for Weston to win, as first, they are from Jackson Parish, and we always pull for our local schools to be successful,” said Quitman skipper Kyle Leach. “Secondly, if Weston wins, that gives up another home game, where we have proven to be tough to beat.”

To give an idea of just how daunting a task Weston has to advance to the quarterfinals and make it an all Jackson Parish matchup, you must take into consideration just how good Fairview is and has been. A comparison of the career records of the two “Kyle’s”, who are the head coaches of Quitman and Fairview, over the past quarter-century lends a little credence. Kyle Leach, the Quitman skipper, is the longest tenured coach in Jackson Parish, while also having the most wins with 362 in 26 years of being a head coach. In 28 years at Fairview, Kyle Jenks has won an incredible 1044 games, which is a mindboggling average of a little over 37 wins per season for nearly 3 decades. 14 state titles, and a string of 16 straight years of reaching the final four in the LHSAA state tournament, which includes 6 straight championship game appearances.

 

If there is a hope of an opportunity for Weston, and if they fail, then Quitman to triumph over one of the nation’s best teams over the last two decades, regardless of classification, it is that Fairview has lost more games this year (9) than they have just twice in the last 20 years. To put that into perspective, though, 7 of the losses came against Division 1 schools, and the other two came at the hands of Division IV’s #1-ranked team. Still, Leach is optimistic about his team’s chances to advance to the state tournament regardless of who they play.

“This team has given all they have in every game they played all year,” said Leach, bragging on his girls. “They have been a joy to coach, and I wouldn’t put anything past them in their ability to play with anyone. Whether we are playing again at home or going to go into one of the toughest places to play in the state, our coaching staff and team are full of confidence that we can win.”

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Councilmembers for the Village of Chatham held their regularly scheduled meeting on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, with Bernadine James and Toni Malone in attendance. Sue Proffer was absent.

Once Chatham Mayor Gregory Harris called the meeting to order, the minutes from the regular meeting held on January 13, 2026 was approved, and the agreement to pay monthly bills was made. 
In additional business, it was approved to pay Jesse Russell $40.00 monthly for the use of person phone. The session adjourned after the financial statements were accepted. 

Official meeting minutes can be viewed in the Classifieds Section. The next regularly scheduled meeting of the Council is scheduled for March 10, 2026. 

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Freshman phenom Samone Mallard scored 8 of her game-high 23 points in the pivotal third quarter to help lift #17 seed Jonesboro-Hodge to a rousing 59-52 road victory over #16 Delhi in the first round of the LHSAA Division IV playoffs. 

The first playoff win for the Lady Tigers since the 2021-22 season also marked the first postseason victory in third-year head coach Shan Jackson’s tenure.

With the victory, JHHS, the fourth-place team in District 1-1A, improved to 15-17 overall, while  Delhi, which was the champion of District 2-1A, saw its season end with a 15-15 record.

The Lady Tigers methodically pulled away from Delhi by taking a 13-10 first-quarter advantage and a 26-19 lead at the break. By scoring a quarter’s best 22 points in the third stanza, JHHS took an insurmountable 48-33 bulge heading into the final frame that held up despite a furious rally by the home team. 

JHHS also got big games from Neesha Johnson, who scored 12 points that included a pair of three pointers, and 10 points from Jalenya Jackson. Derryn Osborne also chipped in with six points, all coming in the second half and Sanaa Tatum who finished with four. Jakhorielle Lard and Carmen Livingston also scored two points each. 

UP NEXT! The Lady Tigers will now travel to #1-ranked Midland (25-7) for a 6:00 pm Regional Round contest on Monday, February 23rd. The cost of admission is $10.00 per person. 

The advancement in the playoffs marks the first time since the 2021-22 season that JHHS has moved past the first round, which at that point the Lady Tigers had done for 12 seasons in a row from 2010-2021, which included 8 trips to the Quarterfinals.  advancing to the second round of the LHSAA playoffs, i

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The family of Ray C. Williams, who passed away on Thursday, February 12th, extends a note of gratitude to the “heroes” of Jackson Parish and the surrounding area.

On January 29th, Williams was traveling on Hwy 167, just north of Quitman, LA, during the ice storm that plagued the area, when his truck slid off the road and, after overturning, became partially submerged in the waters of an adjacent swamp.

Braving the icy conditions, Jackson Parish Hospital Doctors William (Jaime) and Tonya Slusher, nurses Hanna Williams and Summer LeBlanc, Sergeant Koby Saucier of the Louisiana National Guard, and concerned citizen Jacob Hady, who were traveling by at the same time, waded through the waters to pull Williams from the truck.

After carrying the unconscious victim to the bank, Hannah Williams started performing chest compressions while Dr. Tonya Slusher administered mouth-to-mouth breathing treatment. Their joint efforts resuscitated the victim.

The group continued to use their life-saving medical, trauma, and emergency care knowledge to keep Williams alive until First Responders and Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT’s) arrived on scene to take over the recovery efforts. After being stabilized at the North Louisiana Medical Center, Williams was transported to Willis-Knighton Medical Center in Shreveport.  

Johnette Magner of KTBS, Channel 3 TV in Shreveport, LA reported the death on February 19th and posted the message from the family as shown below. 

The family of Ray C. Williams would like to sincerely thank NLMC, Willis Knighton of Shreveport, and all those who helped in our loved one’s rescue and recovery. We thank you for the care, quick action, compassion, and bravery you showed in helping him. Your efforts gave our family more time with him, and that is something we will always be gratefull for. 

Unfortunately, he succumbed to his injuries on February 12th. We take comfort in knowing that he was surrounded by people who were willing to step in and help when it mattered most. Your kindness and humanity meant more to us than words can fully express. 

Thank you again for what you did for him and our family.

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Weston’s Class B girls basketball playoff contest against Simsboro on Thursday turned out to be a night of firsts. With the impressive 67-51 victory over their District 1B foe in the #14 vs #19 matchup, the win marked the first playoff win at Weston for first-year head coach Matthew Herring. Adding to the theme, despite making the playoffs every year, it also marked the first time that the Lady Wolves have advanced past the first round since the 2016-17 season. 

With the youthful charges of Rachel Bandy and Kate Keiffer, who were the top two scorers per average in the regular season for the Lady Wolves, playing leading roles in the triumphant postseason production, the Lady Wolves also got a great performance from Gracie Gray that helped lift Weston to a 20-11 record. Simsboro ends their season with an 8-17 mark.  

As the two leading scorers per average during the regular season have done many times this year, Bandy and Keiffer were the stars once again. Bandy ruled the paint to lead Weston with 19 points while also pulling down 6 rebounds. The sharpshooting Keiffer hit 5 of 9 shots, which included one of Weston’s three 3-pointers, to score 15 points while also grabbing 4 boards and swiping a team-leading 4 steals.

Then there was Gray, who, after averaging just 4.7 points per game during the regular season, saved her best offensive performance of the season for the playoffs by chipping in with a career-best 12 points while also pulling down 5 rebounds. 

Not to be overlooked was the 7-point contribution from Ada Claire Tidwell, and the 7 rebounds each from Carly Jo Griffin and Teegan Hall, who also scored 5 and 4 points respectively. Jakayla Fourd and Carlynn Waters rounded out the third-best scoring effort of the season by the Lady Wolves with a three-pointer and a basket. 

NEXT UP! The Lady Wolves will now put their #14 seed on the line on Monday, February 23rd, in an attempt to advance past the second round for the first time in a decade when they travel to #3 seed Fairview, who drew a first-round bye after ending the regular season with a 25-9 record and a District 4B title. Game time is set for 6:00 pm

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The Jackson Parish School District (JPSD) invites all those interested to attend the Parent Advisory Council (PAC) meeting that will take place at 6:00 pm on Monday, February 23rd in the Jonesboro-Hodge High School Auditorium. 

Featured will be Superintendent of Schools William Carter presenting all JPSD students who scored Advanced on one or more subjects on the 2025 LEAP test with honorary certificates. 

In addition, Ashley Cotten will make a LEAP presentation while Shawn Burns discusses Title I activities. Policies, budgets, and school improvement plans may also be discussed. 

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All three Jackson Parish high schools hit the diamond this past Wednesday – Saturday in baseball action, with Quitman traveling to Farmerville to play D’Arbonne Woods before both the Wolverines and Weston High Schools took part in the prestigious Trey Altick Spring Classic that featured 41 teams from all over the state at 8 different venues in the Monroe area. Jonesboro-Hodge traveled to Shreveport to play both Woodlawn and Huntington High Schools in doubleheaders. Meanwhile, in softball, Jonesboro-Hodge High School began its ambitious softball schedule by trekking to Monroe to take on Division III Carroll High School in the Lady Tigers season opener.

Tiger baseball wins three of four

In regard to the “boys of summer,” Jonesboro-Hodge High School, under the tutelage of second-year coach Carlos Hicks and first-year assistant Tommy Smith, opened its season by winning three of four games played in a pair of doubleheaders at Woodlawn-Shreveport and Huntington High School.

In the season opener, the Tigers got off to a great start by sweeping Woodlawn by scores of 18-3 and 7-0 as Dakota Knox got the win in the first game and Trey Trosclair pitched the shutout in the nightcap. No offensive stats were available. 

JHHS then moved to 3-0 in the early portion of the 2026 season by taking an 11-3 victory over Huntington before dropping their first of the year, 19-9, against the 4-1 Raiders. Trey Trosclair was once again dominant “on the bump” as he fanned 12 Raider batters in the five-inning three-hitter. The Tigers managed just four hits, one each by Trosclair, Kamal, Marquis Baker, and Jeremiah, but coaxed 10 walks off of Huntington’s pitching, and also had three batters hit by a pitch, including Dakota Knox, who got plunked twice. In the nightcap, the Tigers took a 9-8 lead heading into the bottom of the fourth and what turned out to be the final inning, but Huntington rallied to put up 11 runs to take the “walk off” win by the “mercy rule.” Again, JHHS got 4 hits off of Raider pitching with Trosclair, Kamal, John Leblanc, and Jadarious all hitting singles, while the Tigers also got 13 free passes that included having five hit batters. 

Wolverines whip D’Arbonne Woods

Hudson Pullig smashed the first home run of the year for Quitman, and both Maddox Duck and Tucker Newton stroked “two baggers” as Quitman dropped homestanding D’Arbonne Woods by a 9-4 margin. Cail King and Ayden Greer got two hits each of the 9 that Quitman rapped out. Zach Smudricks struck out 7 in 6 strong innings of work to take the victory.

On Friday and Saturday, the Wolverines played a pair of strong New Orleans “select school” squads in Division IV Riverside Academy and Division III Isidore Newman in the Trey Altick Classic. The Wolverines found scoring difficult in both games as Isidore Newman had two pitchers limit QHS to just four hits and no runs, while Riverside did even better, holding QHS to just a Hudson Pullig single in another shutout performance. Maddox Duck led the way for the Wolverines with a pair of hits, including a double, while Kace West and Conner Moak got the other two singles against Isidore Newman as Quitman fell to 4-5 on the year.

Wolves win two of three

Weston High School also took part in the Trey Altick Classic, winning two of the three contests played, all in close fashion. The Wolves opened the tourney by beating Family Community Christian School (FCCS)6-5 in the battle between the 7th-ranked team in Class B vs the #3-rated team in Class C. That was followed by Weston dropping a tight 4-3 decision to the #4-ranked team in Division IV among “select” schools in Central Private Academy out of the Baton Rouge area before winning their finale 10-8 over Division II West Ouachita.

Against FCCS, Jase Borders singled home Kolt Keiffer, who had walked to open the top of the 8th inning, and Bryce Tolar pitched two scoreless innings of relief to preserve the victory. Borders and Colton Blundell got two hits apiece of the seven Weston rapped out. Keiffer stroked a double, and both Drew Browning and Kypton Caskey hit singles in the contest that saw Weston race out to a 5-0 lead and have FCCS come back and tie with two runs in the bottom of the seventh, setting up the extra innings heroics.

Weston had the late-game rally table turned on them against Central Private, who won on a “walk-off” single that climaxed a 3-run rally in the bottom of the 7th inning for the 4-3 victory in the sloppily played game that saw the two teams combine for 9 errors. Weston had taken a 3-1 advantage by scoring single runs in the top of the 5th, 6th, and 7th innings after spotting Central Private to a one-run lead in the first inning. The Wolves got 3 hits on the day, including Kolt Keiffer’s second double of the tournament and singles by the “Border boys,” Jas,e and Easton. Ty Henderson was the unfortunate loser after pitching masterfully to hold Central Private down for 6 innings.

In the 10-8 victory over neighboring West Ouachita, the two squads swapped leads four times in the first three innings before the Wolves took control by scoring 7 runs over the last three frames. Colton Blundell led the Wolves by going 3/3 with a triple and scoring 3 runs in the offensive slugfest that saw the two teams combine for 18 runs and 18 hits, while also committing 8 errors. Ty Henderson (3 RBI, RS), Liam Weaver (2B, 2 RBI RS) and Kolt Keiffer (2 RBI) also had a productive day at the plate with two hits each. Beaux Oliver ((2 RBI), Jase Borders (RS), and Kypton Caskey (2 RS) chipped in with a hit each.

Lady Tigers lose season opener

Division III Carroll High School broke open a close game by exploding for 13 runs in the second inning as they took advantage of 8 free passes and three of the 6 errors the Lady Tigers made, while on offense Jonesboro-Hodge failed to get a hit in the 16-0 loss in the seaon opening contest for JHHS that was called after two innings of play per the “mercy rule”.

Upcoming Schedule

Monday, February 23rd

Softball:
JHHS at Lincoln Prep (5:30 pm)

Baseball:
Weston vs Northwood-Shreve (5:00 pm)
Quitman vs Beekman Charter (4:00 pm)

Tuesday, February 24th

Softball:
Quitman vs LaSalle (4:30 pm)

Baseball:
Weston at Choudrant (6:00 pm)

 

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Cody Cheatwood
FOR SHERIFF
Jackson Parish, Louisiana

Dear Fellow Residents of Jackson Parish,

Jackson Parish has been more than a career for me. It has been a lifelong commitment. For more than four decades, this parish has trusted me in roles that demanded responsibility, fairness, and steady leadership. That trust is not something I take lightly, and it is why I am seeking the office of Sheriff.

My family has deep roots here. My children were raised in Jackson Parish, and today I am the proud grandfather of seven grandchildren. I want them, and every child growing up here, to have a safe community where they can learn, work, and build a future without fear. That desire is personal, and it is one of the strongest reasons I am running.

As Sheriff, I intend to lead from the front. I will be visible, accessible, and fully involved in the day-to-day operations of the Sheriff’s Office. I believe leadership requires presence, not distance, and I expect to know what is happening in every part of the parish. The Sheriff’s Office should never feel unreachable to the people it serves.

One of the most pressing challenges we face, here and across the country, is the illegal drug trade. Drugs destroy families, create crime, and endanger our communities. Addressing this problem requires focus and consistency, which is why I will assign deputies on a full-time basis to narcotics enforcement. This will not be a secondary responsibility. It will be a priority.

Looking ahead, I also believe we must protect and manage the resources that make this parish strong. Caney Creek Reservoir has become a major asset for Jackson Parish. It deserves a dedicated, full-time patrol to ensure safety on the water and surrounding properties. At the same time, I am committed to improving training and continuing education for deputies.

A well-trained agency is safer, more effective, and more accountable to the public. Law enforcement alone cannot solve every problem. I believe in working closely with schools, courts, and other community partners to support mentorship and after-school programs for at-risk youth. Giving young people guidance and opportunity early can prevent crime long before handcuffs ever become involved. Prevention matters, and so does coordination across the entire justice system.

Trusted Leadership for a Safer Jackson Parish

Immediately upon taking office, my focus will be on proactive patrol parish-wide, strengthening school safety measures already in place, and ensuring narcotics enforcement is fully staffed. I also believe it is responsible to review operations and resources to see where improvements can be made for efficiency and cost effectiveness. This will be done carefully and fairly, with respect for the capable men and women already serving in the Sheriff’s Office.

My experience spans every level of this work, including corrections, dispatch, patrol, investigations, and training. I understand how each piece functions and how important teamwork is to success. That experience allows me to lead with knowledge rather than guesswork.

The office of the Sheriff should represent something very simple and very clear to the people of Jackson Parish: help is available. No concern is too small. No call should go unanswered. Whether someone is facing a crisis, a question, or the worst moment of their life, they deserve a professional response grounded in respect, compassion, and fairness.

That expectation will be made clear to every employee.
I believe deputies should know the people they serve, and that citizens should recognize who is patrolling their community. Trust is built through presence, conversation, and consistency. When emergencies happen, we will respond with professionalism and dignity, working alongside other emergency services to serve the parish as one unified team.

This campaign is about service, accountability, and ensuring Jackson Parish remains a safe place for generations to come. I respectfully ask for your trust and your vote.

Committed to serve,
Cody Cheatwood
Candidate for Sheriff
Jackson Parish

(Paid Content)

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The 2025 Class B boys track state champions from Quitman High School received the spoils of their victory on Thursday, February 19th, when they received their state championship rings during a special Ring Ceremony that took place following the Quitman Elementary basketball vs Homer game.

Under the tutelage of second-year track coach Cindy Pardue, the Wolverines claimed their fourth-ever Class B boys track state title, equaling the tremendous accomplishments earned in 1989, 1990, and again in 2017. Also recognized was 2025 Class B Most Valuable Performer, Nathan Harvey, who claimed three gold medals after winning the 110 and 300 meter hurdles and running a leg on the 4×200 and 4×400 winning relay teams.

Additional gold medal winners, along with Harvey, were Brody Cotten, Jayden Harts, and Brayden Smith in the 4×200-meter relays, Gage Horton, Harts, and Smith in the 4×400-meter relays, and Asher Schultz, who won the javelin competition. Quitman won the title by earning five gold medals, a second, two thirds, and a fifth-place finish to outpoint fellow District 1B competitor Castor by a 72-67 margin.

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A large delegation of Senior Beta Club members from Weston High School recently competed in the Louisiana State Convention held at the Baton Rouge River Center from February 11-13, where one member won a Premier Performer Golden Ticket, three won Division Championships, and 13 members qualified for the National Convention in Nashville, TN.

“Our students showed up, worked hard, and represented us with excellence. We are beyond proud of their dedication, leadership, and talent. Their future is bright, and this group proved that hard work truly pays off.” – WHS Administration 

WHS Sr. Beta National Convention Qualifiers

Premiere Performer Golden Ticket Winner
Madison Turner
Championship Winners
Elsie Flynn and Braedyn Turner – Scrapbook
Molly Beaubouef – Division 2 Mixed Media 
2nd Place Winners
Molly Beaubouef, Kari Beth Gates, Rainey Gregory, Olivia Otwell, and Anna Shows – Service Learning Showcase
Michell Cruz – Division 1 Drawing
Abram Toms – Division 2 Quilling
3rd Place Winners
Brianna Moffitt and Allison Morgan – Accessorized Design
Addisyn Garrett – Division 2 Drawing
Anna Shows – Division 1 Pottery
4th PlaceWinners
Kari Beth Gates – Division 2 Color Photography
Molly Beaubouef – Division 2 Speech
5th Place Finisher
Elsie Flynn – Division 1 Sculpture

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Local author Carmen Echols will be at the Main Branch of the Jackson Parish Library, located at 614 South Polk Avenue in Jonesboro, for a book signing at 10:00 am on Monday, February 23rd. 

Echols will not only sign her two publications, Katie Goes Kayaking and Rosie Gets a Ribbon, upon purchase, but will also provide a reading of each during a special Storytime event for the children.

Books can be pre-ordered for a cost of $14.00 each or two for $25.00 by calling the Jackson Parish Library at (318) 259-5697 or by scanning the QR code shown below. 

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Some of Jackson Parish’s “stars of tomorrow” were on display this past Monday, February 16th when the Quitman and Weston Elementary Schools’ girls and boys basketball teams played, beginning what will certainly become a rivalry among the contestants for years to come. 

Give the Quitman boys and the Weston girls the early advantage. 

After the dust had settled, the QES boys extended their season-long unbeaten streak to 10 straight by defeating the elementary Wolves 40-17, while on the girls’ side, it was Weston that came out victorious 21-3 to run their season record to 6-1. 

Leading the charge for Quitman was Bentley Ponder, who outscored the Weston team all by himself with a game-high 19 points. Clay Burton chipped in with 9, JaMikal Hall had 6, and Mason Tolar finished with 4 points. Andrew Seymore also made a basket. Jeremiah Jones and Mason Greer both scored 8 points to lead Weston (1-6), with Brennon Otwell adding a free throw. 

The roles were reversed in the girls’ action as Carrington Bond scored 6 points to pace a well-rounded team scoring effort for Weston. Miriam Shuler added five and both Cadie Conn and Kylee Ann Allen finished with four points apiece. Ryleigh Puffer also made a basket. Lily Duck scored all three of Quitman’s points.

Thursday, February 19th

QES girls 8 Homer 6: Savanah Porter and Dally McCurdy both scored four points and Lily Duck added a free throw as Quitman Elementary improved to 8-3 on the season with the close victory. 

QES boys 30 Homer 13: Ja’Mikal Hall and Bentley Ponder scored 8 points apiece to lead six junior Wolverines in scoring. Mason Tolar chipped in with 6 points, Clay Burton finished with four and both Sutton Vail and Reece Johnson had two points each.  

Upcoming Schedule

Both Quitman and Weston will play two games this week with QES then moving on to play in the Ruston Elementary League Championship tournament on Saturday, February 28th. 

Monday, February 23rd
Quitman at Dubach Elementary
Weston at Ruston Elementary (6:00 pm)

Tuesday, February 24th
Weston at Jonesboro-Hodge Elementary (6:00 pm)
NOTE: Game to be played at Jonesboro-Hodge Middle School

Thursday, February 26th
Quitman at Arcadia Elementary

Saturday, February 28th
Quitman at Ruston Elementary League Championship Tourney

 

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Residents of Jackson Parish and the surrounding area are very fortunate to have such a tremendous facility as Forest Haven Nursing Home and Rehabilitation Center, located in Jonesboro. The administration and staff not only give excellent professional health care but also take extra steps to provide residents with a plethora of activities, making their stay as enjoyable as possible.

On Thursday, February 19th, residents got a special treat by having a front row seat to the Cub Scout Pack 523 annual Pinewood Derby. Residents got to mingle with the local scouts and handle the “race cars” before becoming the cheering section for the four participants who took part in one of the oldest youth traditions in America.

Residents with February Birthdays Recognized

This past week, six residents who had birthdays in February were recognized, with each receiving an honorary cake and well-wishes from fellow residents, staff members, and administrators. Those being honored this month are:

Lynette Calahan, 74
Ina Duffie, 86
Jackie Duos, 84
Carolyn Gibbs, 78
Pamela Gibbs, 62
Gloria Thompson, 90

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The Jackson Parish Recreation Department held its first-ever Youth League Basketball playoffs this Saturday, February 21st, where the teams in 9-10 boys, 10-12 boys,11-13 girls, and 13-14 boys age divisions battled for the right to be called league champions.

13-14 Boys Age Division 

11-13 Girls Age Division

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11-12 Boys Age Division

9-10 Age Boys Division

Three Jackson Parish middle school 4-H members spent time at LSU this week for the annual 4-H Spark Action Change Summit. This event is an immersive three-day experience designed for Louisiana 4-H youth in grades 7 and 8 who are ready to explore the power of civic engagement, leadership, and service. This summit is a culminating event for the Louisiana 4-H Citizenship Board in which teen members of the Citizenship Board from across the state have worked diligently to plan and execute a fun, safe, learning experience for their younger peers.

Set in the heart of Louisiana’s capital city, this dynamic event combined hands-on workshops, engaging tours of the state capital and the LSU campus, immersive lessons in government, and collaborative service projects to deepen their understanding of government, sharpen their leadership skills, and inspire them to take meaningful action in their communities. We are proud to have had these youth representing Jackson Parish and learning how to build civic engagement among students alongside 4-Hers from all over our great state!

4-H delegates from Jackson Parish included Brogan Carpenter (Homeschool), Destany Amox (JHMS), and Evie Carpenter (QHS). We are so proud of these young leaders for stepping up to represent our parish and engage in meaningful conversations about leadership, service, and creating positive change. Stay tuned as they SPARK ideas, take ACTION, and create CHANGE!

Jackson Parish 4-H – Making the Best Better!

 

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