Cornerstone Christian Academy (CCA) Lady Eagles won their second and third volleyball matches of the year on Tuesday to move to the front of the Association of Christian Educators in Louisiana (ACEL) North Division with a perfect 3-0 record.

The Lady Eagles opened their first season in the ACEL on August 13th by winning a match against Kingston Christian Academy of Shreveport, taking three sets to one with scores of 25-17, 25-17, 20-25, and 25-19. On Tuesday, August 18, CCA won the match against Psalm Christian Academy out of Natchitoches in a thrilling five-set match, winning sets two and three by scores of 25-7 and 25-16, falling 25-14 and 25-18 in sets one and four before winning the overtime match by a close score of 15-13.

That set up an all-Jackson Parish battle against Gracepoint Christian Academy of Jonesboro, which is in its very first year of athletic competition in the nightcap. CCA won the match in three straight sets by scores of 25-4, 25-6, and 25-5.

After spending the past several years in the Sports League for Independent Christian Educators (SLICE), which comprises schools from Louisiana and Texas, CCA moved to the ACEL this past spring. The ACEL is comprised of 22 independent Christian schools from all across the state of Louisiana and is divided into four divisions consisting of:

North Division: Cornerstone Christian Academy (Jonesboro), Grace Christian Academy (Jonesboro), Apostolic Restoration Church Academy (West Monroe), Ascension Classical School (Shreveport), Christian Homeschool Association Northeast (West Monroe), Kingston Christian Academy (Shreveport), Mt. Olive Christian School (Athens), Old Bethel Christian Academy (Grayson), and Shreveport Homeschool Sports

Central District: Freedom Life Academy (Natchitoches), Louisiana School of Math, Science, and Arts (Natchitoches), Midstate Homeschool 1-2 (1-2)
Organization (Alexandria), Psalms Christian Academy (Natchitoches)

South-Central District: Acadiana Home School Athletics (Lafayette), John Paul the Great Academy (Lafayette), First Baptist Christian School (Lafayette)

Southeast District: The Brighton School (Baton Rouge), Christian Home Educators Fellowship Red (Baton Rouge), Christian Home Educators Fellowship Blue (Baton Rouge), Christian Academy of Louisiana (Addis), Immanuel Christian School (Morgan City), Open Door Christian Academy (Denham Springs)

Football season is just around the corner, and the Jonesboro-Hodge High School Tiger Booster Club is offering the opportunity to show your support by coming to the Old Fred’s Parking Lot on Saturday, August 22nd, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 pm to purchase a “Brown Bag Special.” Help the Booster Club in this fundraising event by getting a hamburger meal complete with chips and soda for just $8.00. Every purchase supports the JHHS athletic program.

Rachel lived on the island of Saint Croix in the Caribbean. She married Johann Lavien and they had a son named Peter, but Johann was such an abusive husband that Rachel left for her own safety. In retaliation, Johann had her imprisoned for adultery. Upon her release, Rachel sailed from Saint Croix to another island in the Caribbean called Saint Kitts.

There, she met a Scottish trader named James. Shortly thereafter, Rachel’s father died and left her a seaside lot on the nearby island of Nevis. She and James moved there together but could not marry because she was still technically married to Johann. Rachel had two sons with James, James Jr. and Alex. After a little over ten years together, James abandoned Rachel and his children. Some historians argue that James left to protect Rachel and their illegitimate children from legal action brought on by Johann. Whatever the reason, Rachel and her two sons sailed back to Saint Croix. Three years after James left, Rachel and Alex contracted yellow fever. Alex made a full recovery, but Rachel did not. She died at the young age of 39.

Things went from bad to worse. James Jr. and Alex became orphans. Because she was still married to Johann at the time of his death, he had control of her estate. Johann sold all of Rachel, James Jr., and Alex’s possessions in an auction. For a few months, James Jr. and Alex lived with their cousin, Peter Lytton, until he died by suicide. James Jr. became an apprentice to a carpenter and Alex became a clerk at an import/export company on the island. Alex was not yet a teenager.

On one hot August day, a powerful hurricane devastated Saint Croix and changed the course of Alex’s life. Well, not the hurricane itself, but a letter Alex wrote which described the hurricane. Alex wrote the letter to his father. Alex’s mentor, a minister and newspaper editor, was impressed with the letter and published in the local newspaper.

“Honoured Sir,” Alex Wrote, “I take up my pen just to give you an imperfect account of one of the most dreadful Hurricanes that memory or any records whatever can trace, which happened here on the 31st ultimo at night.” Ultimo was short for “in the previous month.”

As he neared the end of his letter, Alex wrote, “I am afraid, Sir, you will think this description more the effort of imagination, than a true picture of realities. But I can affirm with the greatest truth, that there is not a single circumstance touched upon, which I have not absolutely been an eyewitness to.”

When the people of Saint Croix read the article, they were also impressed. Those who knew Alex knew he was illegitimate and uneducated, but they knew how hard he worked. They paid for Alex to come to North America for a proper education and to give him a chance at a better life. Alex did not squander the opportunity. While in college, war broke out and Alex joined the military. Within a short time, he was promoted to lieutenant colonel because of leadership abilities and became the chief staff aid to the general in charge of the whole war.

After the war, Alex became a delegate to Congress, practiced law, and founded a bank. When the general he served under became President of the United States, he chose Alex as his Secretary of the Treasury. Because of this position, those of us who still carry cash can see him on our $10 bills. Alex, that illegitimate orphan who achieved the American dream, who was a signer of the U.S. Constitution, was Alexander Hamilton. And it all started because of a letter to his father.

This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named or shown in photographs or video as suspects in a criminal investigation, or arrested and charged with a crime, have not been convicted of any criminal offense and are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

John Simmons (Jonesboro, LA) – Failure to Register and Notify as a Sex Offender
Krystal M. Melton (Jonesboro, LA) – Possession of Schedule II
Kristan Reed (Hodge, LA) – Possession of Schedule II
Heather S. Urena (Alexandria, LA) – Aggravated Flight, Assault with a Vehicle on a Police Officer, Criminal Damage to Property, Fugitive from Winn Parish
Eric Nash (Jonesboro, LA) – Warrants for Possession of Schedule II x2, Parish Probation Violation
LaDonovan Dill (Jonesboro, LA) – Remaining After Forbidden, Resisting an Officer with Force or Violence, Theft
Shenique N. Johnson (Jonesboro, LA) – Domestic Abuse Battery with Serious Bodily Injury

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

21ST MORTGAGE CORPORATION
#38218
KENNETH ALLAN MANNING

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 26TH day of August 2026 between the hours governing judicial sales, the following property to wit:
2014 RIVER BIRCH 30X64 MOBILE HOME BEARING SERIAL NUMBERS RB13AL17879A AND RB13AL17879B
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 benefit of appraisal.

BRENT BARNETT, SHERIFF
EX-OFFICIO, AUCTIONEER

August 12, 2026

SHERIFF’S SALE

PARISH OF JACKSON
STATE OF LOUISIANA

NEWREZ, LLC, ET AL
#38199
STEVEN J. MORRIS, STEVE MORRIS, SUSAN MORRIS

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 2ND day of September, 2026, between the hours governing judicial sales, the following property to wit:

LOT 38 OF GLENDALE ADDITION TO THE TOWN OF JONESBORO, LOUISIANA, AS PER THE PLAT OF SAME ON FILE AND OF RECORD IN THE OFFICE OF THE JACKSON PARISH CLERK OF COURT TOGETHER WITH ALL IMPROVEMENTS THEREON, APPURTENANCES THEREUNTO BELONGING AND COMPONENT PARTS (PROPERTY).

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 benefit of appraisal.

BRENT BARNETT, SHERIFF
EX-OFFICIO, AUCTIONEER

July 22, 2026
August 26, 2026

SHERIFF’S SALE

PARISH OF JACKSON
STATE OF LOUISIANA

GITSIT SOLUTIONS LLL
#38213
CLARENCE RAY JACKSON

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 16TH day of September 2026 between the hours governing judicial sales, the following property to wit:

BEGINNING AT THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF THE NW 1/4 OF NE 1/4 OF SECTION 19, T15N, RANGE 3 WEST, AND RUN SOUTH 90 FEET, THENCE EAST 157-1/2 FEET, THENCE NORTH 90 FEET, THENCE WEST 157-1/2 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING, TOGETHER WITH ALL OF THE IMPROVEMENTS THEREON AND APPURTENANCES THEREUNTO BELONGING, JACKSON PARISH, LOUISIANA, AS MORE FULLY SHOWN ON SURVEY OF JAMES WOOTEN DATED OCTOBER 12, 2007 (“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

August 5, 2026
September 9, 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 23 day of September, 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

August 12, 2026
September 16, 2026

CAREER OPPORTUNITY

The Jackson Parish Police Jury is hiring for the following open position. Please submit all applications to: Jackson Parish Police Jury Administrative Building, 160 Industrial Drive, Jonesboro, LA 71251. Applications are being accepted until filled. To request a detailed job description, please contact our office at (318) 259-2361 or by email: nevans@jppj.org.

POSITION: Operator 1
DEPARTMENT: Jackson Parish Solid Waste Department

Description:

Under close supervision, the Solid Waste Department Operator I is a semi-skilled to skilled position consisting of equipment operation, manual labor, and maintenance repair of various pieces of light and heavy motorized equipment and trucks used in solid waste management, maintenance, inclement weather, and other generalized work. Incumbent may be used as a relief operator on equipment of a higher class if qualified and trained.

Minimum Qualifications:

• In good standing as an employee in current position
• Class B CDL Driver’s License required; progression towards Class A CDL a must

Basic Responsibilities:

• Primarily operates trackhoe/packer located at the Solid Waste Landfill.
• Directs compact trucks and the public to the proper dumping areas in the landfill.
• Packs and tarps the garbage in the trailers and prepares the trailers to be transported to the Union Parish Landfill.
• Keeps the wall area washed and clean.
• Cleans out drains and bins, when necessary.
• Monitors the water transport and hauls and empties, when necessary.
• Picks up general litter and debris around the landfill, keeping it clean and organized.
• Cross-trained on all Operator II positions; prepared and able to operate any and all equipment used at the landfill.
• Serves as a backup for the Specialty Equipment Operator (Compact Truck), if qualified, trained, and licensed and Operator I and II positions, if necessary (at the appropriate set-up rate).
• Physically present to perform the duties of the position.
• Performs walkaround safety checks at the beginning of every day noting any deficiencies found on equipment and report to Supervisor.
• Complete daily paperwork noting equipment and materials used each day and daily equipment forms.
• Must have good working knowledge of equipment and safety habits.
• Performs manual work functions associated with construction, maintenance, and cleanup of the solid waste landfill and off-site bin sites in accordance with all safety regulations and procedures.

Detailed Job Description available upon request.

CAREER OPPORTUNITY

CAREER OPPORTUNITY

Jackson Parish Ambulance Service District

CAREER OPPORTUNITY

CAREER OPPORTUNITY

PART TIME JOB OFFERING

PART TIME JOB OFFERING

BUSINESS SERVICES

BUSINESS SERVICES

BUSINESS SERVICES

BUSINESS SERVICES

BUSINESS SERVICES

PUBLIC NOTICE

Village of Chatham
Regular Call Meeting Minutes
August 11, 2026

The Village of Chatham held its regularly scheduled meeting on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, at 6:00 pm.
The meeting was called to order, and roll call was taken, and the following were present: Mayor Gregory Harris, council members Toni Malone, Sue Proffer, and Bernadine James
Motion to approve minutes from regular meeting held on July 14, 2026, was made by Bernadine James and seconded by Toni Malone and approved by all.
Motion to pay monthly bills was made by Toni Malone and seconded by Bernadine James and approved by all.
Motion to adopt Ordinance 2026.01, amended budget for FY 25.26 was made by Toni Malone and seconded by Bernadine James and approved by all. The vote was as follows:
Toni Malone – yay, Sue Proffer – yay, Bernadine James – yay
Motion to introduce Ordinance 2026.02 Budget for FY 26.27 was made by Toni Malone and
seconded by Bernadine James and approved by all. The vote was as follows
Toni Malone- yay, Sue Proffer- yay, Bernadine James- Yay
Motion to contract with USIC to mark all water, sewer, and gas lines for the village was made by Toni Malone and seconded by Bernadine James and approved by all.
Motion to add agenda Item #6, Sue Henderson New Build, was made by Bernadine James and seconded by Toni Malone and approved by all.
Motion for Mayor to finish cut-off list per collection policy was made by Toni Malone and seconded by Bernadine James and approved by all
Motion to update collection policy to allow customers to be able to pay until 4 pm on the 15th day after the 20 th of the month and to cut off on the16th day was made by Toni Malone and seconded by Bernadine James and approved by all.
Motion to approve financial statements was made by Bernadine James and seconded by Toni Malone and approved by all.
Motion to adjourn was made by Sue Proffer and seconded by Bernadine James and approved by all.

Junanita Peel
Aug 28, 1927 — Aug 14, 2026

Mrs. Juanita Peel, age 98, of Jonesboro, LA, passed away peacefully on August 14, 2026. Born on August 28, 1927, she lived a full and devoted life, centered on her faith, family, and home.

Juanita was known throughout her family and community for her delicious German chocolate cake, a sweet tradition that brought joy to countless gatherings. As a longtime faithful member of Beech Springs Baptist Church, her faith guided her steps throughout her life.

Juanita was preceded in death by her husband of 72 years, Winfred Peel; her parents, William and Louise Dick; sister, Sybil Oxford; and brother, Charles Dick.

She leaves behind daughter Donna and son-in-law Mike Ingles; grandsons, Justin Hall, Jake and wife Makaehan Ingles; great-grandsons, Malachi Hall and Colt Ingles.

A graveside service honoring her life was held on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, at Beech Springs Cemetery in Quitman, LA, under the direction of Southern-Edmonds Funeral Home in Jonesboro. Johnny Peel and Danny Peel conducted the service.

Serving as pallbearers were Mike Ingles, Jake Ingles, Malachi Hall, Bo Watson, Donny Horton, and Johnny Horton.

Her hands were always busy, her heart was always open, and her memory will be forever a blessing to those who knew and loved her.

After enjoying the past several months of summer vacation, students will return to classes on Monday, August 17th, at all schools in the Jackson Parish School District: Jonesboro-Hodge Elementary, Jonesboro-Hodge High School, Quitman High School, and Weston High School.

The first day of school is a big step. It is normal for students to feel happy and a little nervous at the same time, as a new school year often brings new friends, new teachers, and a whole new schedule of classes and subjects, and for many, all at a new location.

Tips For A Great First Day

Sleep well: Go to bed early so you have lots of energy.
Get packed: Put your clothes, shoes, and backpack ready the night before.
Eat breakfast: A good meal helps you start the day right.
Relax: If you feel scared, it is okay. Take a deep breath and relax.

School Transportation Safety

Slow Down: Back to School Means Sharing the Road

School days bring congestion: School buses are picking up their passengers, kids on bikes are hurrying to get to school before the bell rings, and harried parents are trying to drop their kids off before work. It’s never more important for drivers to slow down and pay attention than when kids are present – especially before and after school.

If You’re Dropping Off
Schools often have very specific drop-off procedures for the school year. Make sure you know them for the safety of all kids. The following apply to all school zones:
● Don’t double park; it blocks visibility for other children and vehicles
● Don’t load or unload children across the street from the school
● Carpool to reduce the number of vehicles at the school

Sharing the Road with Young Pedestrians
According to research by the National Safety Council, most of the children who lose their lives in bus-related incidents are 4 to 7 years old, and they’re walking. They are hit by the bus or by a motorist illegally passing a stopped bus. A few precautions go a long way toward keeping children safe:
● Don’t block the crosswalk when stopped at a red light or waiting to make a turn, forcing pedestrians to go around you; this could put them in the path of moving traffic
● In a school zone when flashers are blinking, stop and yield to pedestrians crossing the crosswalk or intersection
● Always stop for a school patrol officer or crossing guard holding up a stop sign
● Take extra care to look for children in school zones, near playgrounds and parks, and in all residential areas
● Don’t honk or rev your engine to scare a pedestrian, even if you have the right of way
● Never pass a vehicle stopped for pedestrians
● Always use extreme caution to avoid striking pedestrians wherever they may be, no matter who has the right of way

Sharing the Road with Bicyclists
On most roads, bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as vehicles, but bikes can be hard to see. Children riding bikes create special problems for drivers because usually they are not able to properly determine traffic conditions. The most common cause of collision is a driver turning left in front of a bicyclist.
● When passing a bicyclist, proceed in the same direction slowly, and leave 3 feet between your car and the cyclist
● When turning left and a bicyclist is approaching in the opposite direction, wait for the rider to pass
● If you’re turning right and a bicyclist is approaching from behind on the right, let the rider go through the intersection first, and always use your turn signals
● Watch for bike riders turning in front of you without looking or signaling; children especially have a tendency to do this
● Be extra vigilant in school zones and residential neighborhoods
● Watch for bikes coming from driveways or behind parked cars
● Check side mirrors before opening your door

Sharing the Road with School Buses
If you’re driving behind a bus, allow a greater following distance than if you were driving behind a car. It will give you more time to stop once the yellow lights start flashing. It is illegal in all 50 states to pass a school bus that is stopped to load or unload children.
● Never pass a bus from behind – or from either direction if you’re on an undivided road – if it is stopped to load or unload children
● If the yellow or red lights are flashing and the stop arm is extended, traffic must stop
● The area 10 feet around a school bus is the most dangerous for children; stop far enough back to allow them space to safely enter and exit the bus
● Be alert; children often are unpredictable, and they tend to ignore hazards and take risks

The Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office is seeking the public’s assistance with identifying a burglary suspect.
Around 4:30 am on Sunday morning, August 9, 2026, a white male in the video forced entry into the Longstraw Baptist Church, located at 1799 Styles Ranch Road in Choudrant, Louisiana, within Jackson Parish.

To view the video of the suspect, click here or visit https://www.facebook.com/reel/1513921603870841. You can also view the video by going to the Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office Facebook page

If anyone has any information related to the identity of the person in the video, please contact the Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office at 318-259-9021.

On August 5, 2026, at approximately 5:40 a.m., the Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of shots fired at a residence on Evers Street in Jonesboro. Responding deputies determined that multiple rounds had been fired, with some striking the residence.

JPSO investigators immediately began working the case. Through surveillance footage from license plate readers and other camera systems operating throughout the area, investigators identified a vehicle believed to be connected to the incident.

Later that same day, deputies located the vehicle and conducted a traffic stop. The occupants were identified as Tommy Jordan Branch, Jessie Pearson, Jamorian Harrell, and Xavier Calahan. During the stop, suspected illegal narcotics were located inside the vehicle, resulting in narcotics-related charges against all four occupants.

Investigators continued working the case throughout the day, reviewing available surveillance footage, conducting interviews, and following information developed during the investigation.

As a result of the investigation, Tommy Jordan Branch, Jamorian Harrell, and Jessie Pearson were arrested for Assault by Drive-By Shooting. A 9mm handgun was recovered from the residence of Tommy Branch.

The investigation remains active, and additional charges may be forthcoming.

No further details are available at this time. All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. We do not discuss case specifics in the comments.

If you have information related to this case or any other criminal activity, please contact the Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office at (318) 259-9021

The Jackson Parish Clerk of Court Office announces that those who were subject to serve for Jury Duty on Monday, August 17th have been released from their obligation and do not have to appear. The Jackson Parish Clerk of Court Office appreciates and thanks all who were willing to serve but reminds you that, since your obligation is no longer required, if you appear on that date, you will not be compensated.

The Village of Chatham held its regularly scheduled Council meeting on Tuesday, August 11th, with members Toni Malone, Sue Proffer, and Bernadine James in attendance, along with Mayor Gregory Harris.

Following the routine business of approving the minutes of the previous meeting and paying monthly bills, the three-member panel adopted a pair of ordinances: amending the budget for fiscal year 2025-26 (Ordinance 2026.01) and approving the budget for fiscal year 2026-27 (Ordinance 2026.02).

After agreeing to enter into a contract with USIC to mark all water, sewer, and gas lines for the village, the Council approved a new-build request for Sue Henderson and authorized Mayor Harris to complete the utility cutoff list in accordance with the collection policy.

In addition, the existing collection and cutoff policies were updated to allow customers to pay until 4:00 pm on the 15th day after the 20th of the month and, if payment is not made, to cut off services on the 16th day. Approving all financial statements was the final action taken before adjournment.

To view official minutes of the August 11th meeting, go to the Classifieds Section of the Jackson Parish Journal.

In conjunction with the launch of the CARE360 Fall Prevention Program, Jackson Parish Ambulance Service District (JPASD), located at 115 Watts Avenue in Jonesboro, has completed the ZIBRIO Balance Specialist certification, becoming the first EMS Agency in the state of Louisiana to earn this distinction.

The ZIBRIO Balance Scale will be used during in-home fall-risk evaluations, but identifying risk is only the beginning. By combining objective balance assessment with specialized training, JPASD can help individuals understand the risk and develop a more personalized plan focused on balance, strength, mobility, home safety, and fall prevention.

The goal of the JPASD is to turn assessment into ACTION—providing strengthening exercises, recommending appropriate safety tools and resources, addressing hazards in the home, educating individuals and caregivers, and connecting participants with additional resources when needed.

Simply put: find the risk BEFORE the fall happens.

This program was made possible through the JPASD’s partnership with the Living Well Foundation, whose support is helping bring innovative prevention resources directly into the homes of our community.

Interested in setting up an in-home CARE360 Fall Prevention Evaluation for yourself or a loved one? Contact JPASD at (318) 259-2877.

Assess. Strengthen. Prevent. Empower.
CARE360 — Compassion • Access • Resources • Education

On August 12th The Jackson Parish Recreation Board had the privilege of recognizing the JP 13–14 All-Star baseball team for receiving the Sportsmanship Award at the Dixie Boys Baseball Louisiana State Tournament.

What makes this honor especially meaningful is that the Sportsmanship Award is voted on by the other teams participating in the tournament.

While wins, championships, and athletic accomplishments are always something to be proud of, the Sportsmanship Award is one of the most important honors a team can receive. It speaks not only to the type of athletes these young men are, but more importantly, to the character, respect, and sportsmanship they displayed while representing Jackson Parish.

“This is high praise for an outstanding group of players and coaches,” said Jackson Parish Recreation Department Director Justin Dodson. “We are extremely proud of the way they represented Jackson Parish Recreation both on and off the field.”

Jackson Parish 13–14 Boys All-Star Roster

Coaches:
Brandon Reed
Dusty Tolar
John Ables

Team Members:
Thatcher Savage
Mason Tolar
Jaxen Culpepper
Grant Griffin
Jake Moak
Shepard Norred
Caston Zimmerman
Aiden Reed
Jackson Ables
Jase Reed
Eli Henderson
Corbin Powell
Carter Powell

READY for a CHRISTMAS PAGEANT??? The Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce (JPCC) announces that the annual Miss Christmas in the Pines Pageant will be held at 2:00 at the Jonesboro-Hodge High School auditorium on November 7th. Admission is $5.00 per person, with each contestant receiving one free adult entry ticket.

To let all the pretty babies, toddlers, young miss, older miss, and the QUEEN get together and have a blast, you can pick up a registration form at the JPCC office, located at 601 South Cooper Avenue in Jonesboro, or by sending an email to jacksonparishchamber@gmail.com. Entries must be turned in by October 29th. The entry fee is $50.00 and $40.00 for each additional sibling. Payment can be made with cash, check, money order, or Venmo (@kvtolar).

Contestant Categories:

Infant Miss (newborn-11 mo.)
Baby Miss (12-23 mo.)
Toddler Miss (2-3 yr)
Tiny Miss (4-5 yr)
Little Miss (6-7 yr)
Deb Miss (8-9 yr)
Petite Miss (10-11 yr)
Junior Miss (12-13 yr)
Teen Miss (14-16 yr)
Miss Christmas in the Pines (17-18 yr)

Notes:
Contestants may arrive as early as 12:00 on the day of the pageant, but no later than 1 p.m,
Mandatory Practice is scheduled for Thursday, November 5, 2026 at 5 p.m. @J-HHS Auditorium.
Mandatory Christmas Parade Attendance on Saturday, November 28th.
Photography provided by Kristie Browning, 318-548-1316, klbt22@gmail.com

BATON ROUGE — The Louisiana High School Athletic Association (LHSAA) is excited to announce the return of Cheer & Dance to the LHSAA championship calendar as a non-sanctioned activity, marking the first time in more than a decade that Louisiana high school cheer and dance programs will have an LHSAA championship event.

The 2026 Louisiana High School Cheer & Dance Championships will be held November 30–December 1 at the Lake Charles Event Center in Lake Charles, Louisiana, featuring competitions in cheer and dance across multiple styles.

The return of the championship follows years of interest from LHSAA member schools and the Louisiana cheer and dance community. In response, the LHSAA worked with a steering committee led by Louisiana High School Coaches Association Director Jessica Barber to develop a pathway for the championship event to return.

“This has been a long time coming, and I am excited that we are finally able to bring Cheer & Dance back to the championship calendar,” said LHSAA Executive Director Eddie Bonine. “We listened to our schools and the spirit community, and we believe this championship provides an opportunity to recognize the tremendous work and dedication of these student-athletes. We are grateful to everyone who helped make this return possible.”

While Cheer & Dance will return to the LHSAA championship calendar, it will remain a non-sanctioned activity of the LHSAA. As a result, Cheer & Dance will not operate under the same eligibility requirements, scheduling regulations, competition guidelines, or other rules that apply to LHSAA-sanctioned sports. The championship event also does not carry the same official classification as an LHSAA-sanctioned state championship.

“Competitive cheer and dance are back, and I’m excited for these athletes to have the opportunity to compete on a championship stage,” said Jessica Barber, Director of the Louisiana High School Coaches Association. “I want to thank the LHSAA and the spirit community for helping bring this event back and providing these student-athletes with an opportunity to showcase their hard work.”

The 2026 championships are expected to feature more than 100 cheer and dance teams from across Louisiana. Cheer competition will take place in Sudduth Coliseum, while dance competition will be held in the Rosa Hart Theatre at the Lake Charles Event Center.

The return of the Louisiana High School Cheer & Dance Championships reflects the LHSAA’s continued commitment to listening to its member schools and creating meaningful championship experiences for Louisiana’s high school student-athletes.

“We are excited to bring this event back and grateful to the schools, coaches, spirit community, steering committee and our partners who helped make it possible,” Bonine said. “We look forward to celebrating the athletes and teams who will compete this year.”

Tickets for the 2026 Louisiana High School Cheer & Dance Championships will be available through Ticketmaster.

The administration and staff of the Jackson Parish Library are pleased to recognize Ashlee Hatten and Robert Gammill for their artistic skills. Hatten was selected as Artist of the Month at the Jonesboro Branch, and Gammill was honored by the Chatham Branch for his artistic ability. Hatten’s creations can be viewed at the Jonesboro Branch, while Gammill’s art is on display at the Chatham Branch. See below for more on each.

Accepting Applications for Bookmobile Position

As a candidate for School Board, I believe every decision we make must begin with one important question: What is best for our children? Every child deserves a safe, supportive, and engaging learning environment where they are encouraged to learn, grow, and reach their full potential.

I am a lifelong resident of Jackson Parish. I was born and raised right here, attended our elementary, junior high, and secondary schools, and proudly graduated from Jonesboro Hodge High School. This community shaped who I am, and it has always been home. Education has been the foundation of my life’s work. I earned a master’s degree in Elementary Education and another master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Louisiana Tech University. Throughout my entire professional career, I was dedicated to Jackson Parish School District, where I spent 13 years teaching students and then served for 11 years as an Instructional Coordinator, partnering with teachers to implement curriculum, strengthen instructional practices, and support student achievement through effective teaching strategies. Since retiring, I have remained actively involved in the school district by regularly attending school functions and volunteering as an after-school tutor, continuing my commitment to supporting students and public education.

My husband, Joey, and I have been married for 30 years, and he is also a lifelong resident of Jackson Parish, graduating from Jonesboro Hodge High School, too. We have raised two children, Machaela and Anthony, and have a daughter-in-law, Stacey.

With 24 years of educational experience, I understand that children are individuals with different strengths, needs, interests, and learning styles. I have seen firsthand the difference that caring teachers, involved parents, strong leadership, and meaningful educational opportunities can make in a child’s life. I believe our school board must listen to the people closest to our children—students, teachers, parents, and school staff—and use that insight to make responsible decisions.

Becoming a School Board member means “Putting Children First” by supporting our teachers and giving them the resources they need to be successful. It means maintaining open and honest communication with parents and families. It means promoting academic excellence while recognizing the social and emotional needs of students. It also means being responsible stewards of taxpayer dollars so that resources are directed toward programs and services that directly benefit our children.

If elected as your School Board member, I will advocate for high expectations, strong accountability, responsible financial management, and opportunities for every student to succeed. I will approach each issue with integrity, listen to different perspectives, and remain focused on the educational needs of our students.

I, Cherrise B. Bryan, am asking for your vote to serve as your School Board Member for Jackson Parish District 6.

(Paid Content)

The Ouachita Parish Police Jury (OPPJ) announces that a drawdown of Cheniere Lake, a favorite fishing spot for many Jackson Parish residents, will begin soon, following a recommendation from the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF).

As part of a comprehensive strategy to control the giant salvinia, which has infested the lake, making boat travel almost impossible, and to protect Cheniere Lake’s ecosystem, fishery, recreational opportunities, and long-term health, the temporary drawdown is just one part of LDWF’s integrated management plan. Also expected are targeted herbicide applications, biological control using salvinia weevils, strategic containment measures, and continued monitoring. Together, these efforts are intended to slow the spread of giant salvinia

The Jonesboro-Hodge Elementary faculty and staff would like to thank Pleasant Grove Baptist Church, located at 908 Evergreen Road in Jonesboro, for their generous donation towards our back-to-school luncheon at Catfish Inn on Thursday, August 12.

“Thank you, Pastor Staten, Deacon James “Spike” Harris, and the Pleasant Grove Baptist Church congregation, for their donation, and Catfish Inn for accommodating us. The luncheon was a great start to a great year! A friendly reminder that school resumes Monday, August 17, for Grades 1-6. Please check the website regarding Pre-K and Kindergarten start dates.”- Ms. Copeland, Principal

As a fundraiser for the athletic program, Cornerstone Christian Academy (CCA) held its first annual “Co-Ed Clash” softball tournament on July 25th at the Jackson Parish Recreation Department Sports Complex, with the Sandlot Legends winning first place and Bat Intentions coming in second place.

“What an incredible day at the Co-Ed Clash! We want to say thank you to everyone who played a part in making this tournament such a success.” – CCA Athletics

Team members of the Sandlots Legends were Hailey Chatham, Keegan Goodwin, Hunter Leblanc, Aiden Leblanc, Aubry Townsend, Milley Toney, Dennis McClung, Ava Guillot, Jamey Fisher, and Jacob Jester.

There’s a special group of ladies who have discovered the perfect recipe for friendship: good food, lots of laughter, plenty of visiting and absolutely no business meeting!

The group, affectionately known as the Birthday Babes, is made up of retired ladies, with the exception of one, who meet once a quarter to celebrate the birthdays of those who have birthdays during that quarter. There is no call to order, no minutes to read, no treasurer’s report and, best of all, no reports at all! Just good food, good conversation and good old-fashioned fellowship.

This month, the Birthday Babes gathered at The Green House to celebrate Mary Cryer, Dean Rushing and Carla Smith. The ladies enjoyed their time together, sharing plenty of laughter and stories while celebrating another year of friendship and birthdays.

It’s safe to say the Birthday Babes have their priorities just right-praying and thanking God before they eat, laugh, visit, and celebrate!

As Louisiana businesses transition from summer schedules into one of the busiest times of year, workplace routines shift, new employees come on board, and operations ramp up. For LWCC, Louisiana’s largest workers’ compensation provider, August is an ideal time to encourage employers to refresh safety practices before small risks become costly injuries.

Employers should use this seasonal transition to evaluate their workplace safety programs, reinforce safe work habits, and strengthen a culture where safety remains a daily priority.

The need for ongoing safety awareness is clear. According to the latest U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data, private industry employers report approximately 2.5 million nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses each year. While many organizations provide safety training during onboarding or after an incident, periodic refreshers throughout the year help reinforce expectations, reduce injuries and demonstrate an ongoing commitment to employee wellbeing.

Conduct a Safety Checkup

Regular inspections and preventive maintenance help identify hazards before they become incidents. Employers should consider:

(1) Inspecting emergency equipment. Verify that fire extinguishers, emergency exits, alarms, and other life safety equipment are properly maintained, inspected, and accessible.

(2) Reducing fire hazards. Review workplace policies for small appliances, extension cords, and portable heaters, and remove unnecessary ignition risks.

(3) Improving visibility. Ensure hallways, stairwells, ramps, and work areas are well lit for safe navigation.

(4) Reviewing recent near misses. Evaluating incidents that almost resulted in an injury can reveal opportunities to eliminate hazards before they cause harm.

Reinforce Safe Practices

Even experienced employees benefit from periodic reminders. Reinforcing everyday safety habits can help prevent injuries before they happen.

Focus on reminders such as:

1. Keep floors clean and dry. Slips, trips, and falls remain among the leading causes of workplace injuries, regardless of the environment. Promptly clean spills and use warning signs when surfaces are wet.
2. Keep walkways clear. Boxes, tools, cords and clutter can quickly become tripping hazards. Encourage employees to keep walkways clear and free of clutter.
3. Wear the right gear. Appropriate footwear, clothing and required personal protective equipment (PPE) help reduce injury risks while keeping employees safe and comfortable.

Review and Update Your Safety Plan

A written safety plan is one of the most effective tools for preventing injuries, but only if it reflects current operations and employees understand it. As business activity increases heading into the fall, employers should review safety policies, emergency action plans, and evacuation procedures to ensure they remain accurate and accessible. Employees should know where these resources are located and what is expected of them during an emergency.

Building a Strong Safety Culture

A strong safety culture goes beyond written policies. It requires consistent leadership, employee engagement, and ongoing communication. When leadership consistently reinforces safe behaviors and provides employees with the tools they need to succeed, everyone benefits. Fewer injuries mean fewer disruptions, lower costs, stronger employee morale, and a healthier, more productive workforce.

Investing a few minutes in workplace safety today can help prevent injuries tomorrow and strengthen your organization’s safety culture throughout the year.

LWCC is committed to helping Louisiana businesses build safer workplaces through expert consultation, training, and practical safety resources designed to prevent injuries.

For more information and free workplace safety resources, including sample safety plans, training materials, and expert-authored guidance, visit: https://www.lwcc.com/safety

The Jackson Parish Tigers Little League football team will soon start their season, and to help purchase a new van for travel, a unique fundraiser is underway: you can show your support by entering a drawing for a chance to win a custom team hat.

For just $25.00 per ticket, two lucky winners will receive a custom hat designed by Chapeaux Trends LLC, valued at $200.00, featuring your favorite team or personal logo. The deadline to enter is August 28th.

Payment for tickets can be made via Cash App at $JPTigers25 (put “hat drawing” in the notes) or via Zelle at chapeaux2021@gmail.com. Once done, send Coach Wot Walton a direct message on his Facebook page indicating your team preference or personal logo.

Show Your Support!