Reverend Dr. Reginald L. Staten, Pastor of Pleasant Grove Missionary Baptist Church, located at 908 Evergreen Road in Jonesboro, LA, cordially invites all area boys and girls to the church’s annual “STAND” Youth Conference on March 7-8. 

The inspirational and educational two-day event that is free to attend is themed “Playing True and Never Deviate,” will take place at 908 Evergreen Road in Jonesboro, LA, beginning with discussion time from 9:00 am – 1:00 pm on Saturday. 

At 10:00 am on Sunday, Special Guest Speaker Minister Nicholas Douzart of Bethel Missionary Baptist Church in Monroe, LA, will deliver a message, followed by Reverend Zackery Thomas, Youth Pastor of Zion Traveler Baptist Church in Ruston, LA, who will close the session.

“STAND” YOUTH CONFERENCE SCHEDULE

Saturday, March 7th
9:00 am – 1:00 pm

Topics For Discussion:
*Artificial Intelligence: A Threat or a Benefit
* Resolving Conflicts
* Healthy Eating and Exercise
* Social Media: Unplug and Rewire
* Testing/Study Habits

Sunday, March 8th
10:00 am

Opening Session Speaker: Minister Nicholas Douzart
Closing Session Speaker: Reverend Zackery Thomas

(Continental Breakfast and Lunch Included)

 

 

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Spots are still available for Southern A’Chord Chorus’s free women’s vocal workshop on Saturday, March 7, and the community is invited to attend a 2:30 p.m. closing presentation showcasing what participants have learned.

The workshop, “Find Your Voice: Empowering Women Through Song,” will take place from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the fellowship hall of the Presbyterian Church of Ruston, located at 212 N. Bonner Street. It is open to women ages 16 and older.

Participants will spend the day focusing on healthy vocal technique, ensemble skills, and musical expression in an encouraging setting. Nationally recognized vocal clinician Robin Curtis will lead the workshop.

The afternoon program will feature all workshop participants singing together, followed by two selections from Southern A’Chord’s repertoire. Family, friends, and community members are welcome to attend the brief performance.

Pre-registration has been extended through Thursday, March 5. Walk-ins will be accepted as space allows. To pre-register, visit bit.ly/women-sing.

The workshop is supported by a grant from the Louisiana Division of the Arts, the Office of Cultural Development, and the Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism in cooperation with the Louisiana State Arts Council, as administered by the Northeast Louisiana Arts Council. Funding has also been provided by the National Endowment for the Arts and community sponsors.

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On Tuesday, February 24th, Jonesboro-Hodge Elementary School (J-HES) hosted Weston for their 5th Grade/ “Senior” Night, concluding their 25-26 regular season. Both the boys and girls teams had successful season-ending contests, with the Tigers winning the girls game 9-7, followed by the boys team winning 23-20.

Scorers for the J-HES girls were Morgan Osborne with 5 points and Hope Drayton and D’Allyua Boston with 2 points each. The boys were led by Noah Martin with 8 points, followed by Bryce Martin and Carson Knox with 5 points each. Khaza Cottonham and Ayden Chatman also scored two points apiece. 

Senior Night Recognition

The evening was climaxed by the 5th-grade “Seniors” being honored, which included five cheerleaders, six Lady Tigers, and one from the boys basketball team. 

5th Grade “Senior” Cheerleaders
Za’Mier Jacobs
Draya Kelly
Aulani Williams
LaDarria Thompson
Baylee Wilson

5th Grade “Senior” Lady Tigers
Addison Evans
D’Allyua Boston
Madison Johnson
Jonn’ailah Anderson
Hope Drayton
Morgan Osborne

5th Grade “Senior” Tiger
Noah Martin

J-HES Recognizes Jonesboro State Bank Pledge 10

The administration and athletic program of Jonesboro-Hodge Elementary School extend special thanks to Jonesboro State Bank’s Pledge 10 Grant, which helped fund summer practices with Ten-10 Training. Thank you for your support of our teams.

Quitman Elementary Boys Runner-Up in Ruston League Championships

The boys and girls basketball teams from Quitman Elementary School concluded a very successful season with the boys finishing as runner-up and the girls reaching the semi-finals in the Ruston League Championship Tournament held on February 28th at the Ruston Sports Complex.

First Round: By virtue of receiving a top seed, the QES boys team had a first-round bye, while the QES girls beat Jonesboro-Hodge Elementary by a 14-8 score. Lily Tolar led the way with 10 points, with both Dally McCurdy and Hillary Foster scoring 2 points each. No scoring totals were available for J-HES. 

Second Round: The QES boys beat Crawford Elementary (Arcadia) 33-14 with Bentley Ponder and Ja’Mikal Hall scoring 10 points each and Koplen Taylor adding 7 points. Clay Burton and Mason Tolar added 4 and 2 points, respectively. 

Semifinals: Ja’Mikal Hall scored a game-high 15 points to pace QES to a 25-19 victory over Cypress Springs Elementary of Ruston. Andrew Seymore, Mason Tolar, Koplen Taylor, Clay Burton, and Sutton Vail all chipped in with 2 points each. The QES girls fell to eventual league champion Ruston Elementary by a 12-6 score, ending their season with a fine 9-4 record. No individual scoring statistics were available. 

Finals: In the championship game, QES held a lead late but fell to Lincoln Prep 24-21 for their first loss of the season after winning 14 straight games coming in. Koplen Taylor and Ja’Mikal Hall had 6 points each, while Bentley Ponder and Clay Burton scored4 points apiece. Mason Tolar also made 2 points. 

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In 1965, Washoe was born in West Africa. Ten months later, she and four other youngsters, Dar, Pili, Tatu, and Moja, were brought to the United States to be raised by foster parents Allen and Beatrix Gardner.

Allen and Beatrix played with them, talked to them, fed them, chased them, ran from them, gave them a comfortable and intellectually stimulating home, and all the other things most parents do to bond with and raise their children.

Washoe and the others acted very much like children of their age with one exception, they could not speak. Fostering Washoe and the others was difficult because they were unable to communicate vocally, but Allen and Beatrix both worked as scientists at the University of Nevado in Reno and understood that getting the desired result usually took a long time to achieve.

One of the most important tools in their arsenal as scientists was patience. Most doctors concluded that they would never be able to communicate because they all lacked a specific gene, the FOXP2 gene, which is essential for the normal development of speech. They would never be able to speak. They accepted the prognosis that the youngsters would never be able to communicate verbally, but Allen and Beatrix were determined that they would be able to communicate.

Rather than trying to get Washoe and the others to speak verbally, the Gardners stopped using verbal communication around them altogether. When in their presence, Allen and Beatrix communicated with each other using American Sign Language (ASL).

The Gardners feared that trying to communicate with them verbally and with sign language simultaneously would be confusing. The Gardners hoped the youngsters would learn by watching them communicate with each other. Washoe was especially interested.

They used the proper sign language to each other when Washoe was eating, bathing, and while she was being dressed. They invented exciting games; introduced new toys, books, and magazines; all of which were designed to stimulate sign language.

They made scrapbooks of Washoe’s favorite pictures and used the proper sign language for whatever was shown in the photos. Dinner time began with Allen and Beatrix shaping their dominant hands into a flattened “O” with the fingertips touching the thumb then tapping the fingertips to their lips once or twice. In American Sign Language, this is the sign for “food” or “to eat.”

Then one day at dinner time, long after doctors and other experts had given up hope that she would ever be able to communicate, Washoe told Allen and Beatrix that she was hungry by signing the word “food.” The Gardners were overjoyed. Within a short time, Washoe could tell the Gardners that she was thirsty and that she wanted to play with her toys by using sign language. She quickly learned the sign for “more” to let the Gardners know she was still hungry, still thirsty, or that she wanted more toys. Her vocabulary continued to grow. Then she began to learn to answer questions such as “Who is that?” and “What do you want?”

As her vocabulary grew, the Gardners noticed something extraordinary. Washoe began teaching the other youngsters the sign language she knew, and they were signing back correctly. With the help of the Gardners, Washoe and the others learned a sign language vocabulary of hundreds of words and expressions.

Washoe became the first of her kind to learn a human language and teach it to another primate. Washoe and the others were all chimpanzees.

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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.

Reese L Spivey (Jonesboro, LA) – Winn Parish Warrant – Failure to Appear on Violation of Protective Order, Winn Parish Warrant – Simple Assault
Marcus Walker (Jonesboro, LA) – Criminal Conspiracy, Aggravated Assault with a Firearm
Samantha Artigue (Chatham, LA) – Negligent Injury
Claude Matthis II (Quitman, LA) – Criminal Trespassing
Shirley L. Dill (Jonesboro, LA) – Distribution of Methamphetamine
Joe T. Miles (Quitman, LA) – Distribution of Methamphetamine
Wesley K. Robertson (Chatham, LA) – Terrorizing and Menacing
Jeremy Davis (Jonesboro, LA) – Simple Battery
David Toney (Choudrant, LA) – Warrant on Battery of a Dating Partner and Failure to Appear
Angela McCleland (North Hodge, LA) – Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Whitley S. Leonard (North Hodge, LA) – Window Tine, Possession of Synthetic Marijuana, Warrant on Traffic Charge
Richard C. Stover (Monroe, LA) – Bench Warrant for Possession of Schedule II, Failure to Appear, Bench Warrant for Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Illegal Window Tint, Operating a Vehicle with a Suspended License, Prohibitied Acts Schedule I, Prohibited Acts Schedule II, Failure to Appear
Melissa R. Tarver (Jonesboro, LA) – Possession of Schedule I, Introduction of Contraband
April Brooks (Jonesboro, LA) – Warrant on Possession of Schedule I, Possession of Synthetic Marijuana, Theft
Kerric Jackson (Jonesboro, LA) – Possession of Schedule II
Stephen L. Burks III (Jonesboro, LA) – 2nd Degree Battery

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

PUBLIC NOTICE

Jackson Parish School Board Meeting Minutes
March 2, 2026

The Jackson Parish School Board met in a regular scheduled meeting at 11:00 a.m. on
March 2, 2026 at Jackson Parish School Board, 315 Pershing Highway, Jonesboro,
Louisiana.
The following were present for roll call: Mary Saulters, Rick Barlow, Paulette Belton,
Wade McBride and Dennis Clary.
Absent: Calvin Waggoner and Gerry Mims
Wade McBride gave the Invocation.
Dennis Clary led in the Pledge of Allegiance.
The meeting was called to order by Mary Saulters.
A motion was made by Paulette Belton, seconded by Dennis Clary and carried to
approve the minutes from the Regular Scheduled meetings held on February 2, 2026.
A motion was made by Dennis Clary, seconded by Wade McBride and carried to approve
the 2026-2027 School Calendar.
A motion was made by Rick Barlow, seconded by Paulette Belton and carried to grant
Superintendent Carter permission to sign agreement with The Rosemary Ewing
Foundation for the purpose of a 2026 Summer Reading Program.
The Board recognized Instructional Coaches: Brandie Watson, Anna Long and Katie Seymore
Rick Barlow reported to the Board on the meeting of the Executive Finance Committee
held prior to the Board meeting.
A motion was made by Dennis Clary, seconded by Wade McBride and carried to
approve for payment the following bills: General Fund, Federal Program, School Food
Service, Sales Tax, Special Education and District Maintenance bills.
A motion was made by Wade McBride, seconded by Paulette Belton and carried to
approve approving to pay Employer’s Share of Office of Group Benefits insurance
premiums from General Fund for the March 2026 sales tax distribution.
A motion was made by Dennis Clary, seconded by Rick Barlow and
carried approving to grant Superintendent Carter authorization to purchase
Textbooks/Curriculum teaching resources and consumables for the 2026-2027 school
year. Not to exceed $350,000.00

A motion was made by Paulette Belton, seconded by Dennis Clary and carried
approving payment approving payment of $17,979.35 to SHI for the renewal of the
Microsoft Software for all schools and Central Office, to be paid from General Fund.
A motion was made by Rick Barlow, seconded by Paulette Belton and carried approving
payment of $24,885.00 to White Rock Cybersecurity for the three (3) year renewal of
ESET Antivirus software for all schools and Central Office, to be paid from General
Fund.
Kristi Bass, Business Manager presented the Financial Report.
A motion was made by Wade McBride, seconded by Rick Barlow and carried to adjourn
at 11:30 a.m.

James (Jim) Prentice Gimber, Jr
May 15, 1939 – February 27, 2026

James (Jim) Prentice Gimber, Jr. was born on May 15, 1939, and left his earthly body on February 27, 2026, in Monroe, LA. He was 86 years old.

Jim was born in Winnfield, LA, but grew up in Hodge and Jonesboro, LA (he loved Jonesboro). He was a graduate of Jonesboro Hodge High School, LA Tech (industrial engineering), and Centenary College (MBA). He was married to Judith (Judy) Robertson Gimber (42 years) and was married to Carolyn Gimber from 2008 until 2020.

He was a member of the Louisiana National Guard and was a Past Master of Jonesboro Lodge 280 Free & Accepted Masons. He was a true giver – and in death gave his body (excitedly) to LSU Medical School – so now he will be in med school for a little while as well. Jim knew Jesus and that he was going Heaven when he died – and for that, we celebrate!

Some of his career highlights include serving as a district supervisor at LP&L (Entergy), a plant manager at Baker Brush Company in Farmerville, a project and safety supervisor at Shumpert Hospital, and a plant engineer at Ruskin Manufacturing.

Jim was a forever tinkerer – could build anything, shops, cars, projects, and whatever else would pass his evenings and weekends. He also loved cooking, flying airplanes, playing music, fishing, and spending time with friends and family, and unfortunately, outlived most of the ones he grew up with. Above this, and through his faults, he loved his family wholeheartedly until the day he died. Anyone who was ever close to him surely has a funny story of how he showed that love, along with some cynical, crass comments along the way in Jim’s style.

Daddy, Pappaw, Uncle Jim, or just Jim knew and was known by many. He leaves behind his daughter Amy Hough (Johnnie) of Vivian, LA, and his son Jon Gimber (Megan) of Monroe, LA. He leaves Grandchildren Katie Barr (Butch), Garrett Gimber, Hollis Anne Gimber, and Mary Kathryn Gimber, as well as great-grandchildren Beckham Barr, Braxton Barr, and Lola Barr.

He was preceded in death by his wife Judy in 2006, parents – James (Jimmy) Prentice Gimber, Sr. and Katie Harper Gimber, his son James (Trey) P. Gimber, III, his sister Dewanna Gimber Pipes, nephew Rone Evans, and in-laws James Harold Roberston and Merrit Robertson, James (Jimmy) Frank Robertson, Harold and Mary Robertson, Tommy Robertson, Phil Robertson, and Jan Dasher.

Left also to cherish his memory are in-laws Billy Pipes, Kay Robertson, Si & Christine Robertson, Gordon and Anne Dasher, Nancy Robertson and Connie Robertson as well as numerous nephews, nieces, and friends.

We will celebrate his life at North Monroe Baptist Church on Saturday, March 7, at 2 PM. After he is finished with Med School, he will receive graveside Masonic rights and will be placed in rest with Judy and Trey.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to North Monroe Baptist Church in Jim’s memory.

Donald Marvin Pepper
February 26, 1961 – February 27, 2026

Donald Marvin Pepper, age 65, was born and raised in Jonesboro, Louisiana. He passed away peacefully in Shreveport, Louisiana after a brief illness, surrounded by his loving family. Donald was known for his hardworking spirit and many talents. A true jack-of-all-trades, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, and rebuilding just about anything he could get his hands on. Above all, he was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather whose love and steady presence will be deeply missed.

Donald is survived by his mother, Evylon Pepper; brother, Greg Pepper; sisters, Willie Curry, Lena Smith, Betty James (Bobby); sons, Joshua Pepper (Stephanie), Joseph Pepper (Chelsea); grandchildren, Elainea, Joshlyn and Mordechai Pepper; many nieces, nephews, greats and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Rhonda (James) Pepper; father, Willie Pepper; sisters, Louise Williams (Grady), June Carpenter, Lillian Volentine (Dale), Margie Williams (Jerry), and brother, Ricky Pepper.

The funeral service will begin at 10:00 am on Wednesday, March 4, in the Southern-Edmonds Chapel in Jonesboro, LA. Bro. Jeremy Fontenot will officiate the service. Burial will be in the Walnut Ridge Cemetery near Hodge, Louisiana, under the direction of Southern-Edmonds Funeral Home.

Serving as pallbearers will be Joshua Pepper, Joseph Pepper, Greg Pepper, DeWayne Morris, Brayden Carmichael, and Larry Smith.

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A temporary Burn Ban has been put into effect for Jackson Parish. Phiip Brown, President of the Jackson Parish Fire Chief Association and Fire Chief of Quitman Fire District #1, made the declaration on February 26th. 

Burn Ban Statement

Per Jackson Parish Police Jury Ordinance 05-0825-2011, I, Fire Chief Philip Brown, President of the Jackson Parish Fire Chiefs Association, hereby declare a BURN BAN for the Parish of Jackson.

Any temporary burn ban so imposed by the President of the Jackson Parish Fire Chiefs’ Association shall prohibit ALL outdoor burning until such time as the Fire Chief determines that the weather conditions are safe enough to cancel the burn ban.

This burn ban becomes effective February 27, 2026, at 7:00 AM. It SHALL remain in effect until cancelled.

This Ordinance SHALL NOT apply to prescribed burns by the La. Department of Agriculture and Forestry, by those trained and certified by the Department of Agriculture and Forestry, or by those who conduct prescribed burning as a “generally accepted agriculture practice” as defined by the Louisiana Right to Farm Law (R.S. 3:3601 et seq.).

Violation of this burn ban may result in a $500.00 fine and/or 6 months in jail.

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The Jackson Parish School District (JPSD) announces that school transfer requests are now being taken until March 27th. Forms to submit a request can be found by clicking here or on the JPSD website at http://www.jpsd.us. All forms should be turned in at the Central Office, located at 335 Pershing Hwy. in Jonesboro, LA, no later than 4:00 pm on March 27th. 

If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact the Jackson Parish School District at (318) 259 – 4456.

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The boys basketball teams from Quitman and Saline High Schools will host LHSAA Regional Round playoff games this Monday and Tuesday. Weston High School was eliminated from the playoffs in the first round this past Thursday.

The second round of the playoffs for the two local schools begins on Monday, March 2nd, when #4 Saline plays host to #3 St. Joseph – Plaucheville in Class C action, followed by #3 Quitman High hosting #14 Glenmora in the Class B bracket.

#4 Saline vs #13 St. Joseph – Plaucheville
Monday, March 2nd
Tip Off: 6:00 pm
Admission: $10.00 per person

After receiving a first-round bye, #4 seed Saline High School will put its 21-13 record on the line when they play host to #13 St. Joseph – Plaucheville (13-20), who advanced to the Regional Round contest after beating #20 Jehovah-Jireh 60-41 in the opening round. A Saline victory will set up another home game in the Class C Quarterfinals against the winner of #5 Georgetown and #12 Ebarb.

#3 Quitman vs #14 Glenmora
Tuesday, March 3rd
Tip Off: 6:00 pm
Admission: $10.00 per person

Head coach Michael Black and staff look to continue the season that has resulted in the #3 seed Wolverines (24-5) holding their highest ranking since 2006-07, when they host #14 Glenmora. The Woverines, who won their first District 1B championship in three years, advanced to the Regional Round for a second season in a row. Glenmora (14-18), which finished second in District 5B, advanced by beating Episcopal of Acadiana 72-41 in the first round. 

Weston’s season ends at Simsboro

Simsboro 88 Weston 59: A disparity of 46% to 11% from the three-point line spelled doom for the Wolves, who saw their season end in the first round of the Class B playoffs. In the rematch of the February 9th matchup between the two District 1B schools, Simsboro, which set a new season mark for most points scored, connected on 13 of 28 shots from behind the arc compared to Weston, which gave up the most points this season, making only 2 of 18 from the three-point line. The loss that ended the Wolves’ season with an 11-21 record overshadowed a strong performance by Brody Tidwell, who led Weston in scoring with 19 points. Cole Otwell ended with 8 points, with Leyton Younse being next with 7. Malachi Harris made 6 points, followed by  Abram Toms and Aiden Faulkner, who both finished with five each. Gunner Younse and Ty Henderson totalled 3 points apiece, Jacolby Lowe tallied two, and AJ Woodard sank a free throw to round out Weston’s scoring. 

“My guys showed a lot of growth this season. We pushed through tough losses, celebrated hard-earned wins, and never stopped believing in the process,” reflected WHS head coach Jacob Otwell. “This season proved that success isn’t measured by the scoreboard, but by resilience, teamwork, and heart. I am incredibly proud of how far this team has come and excited to see what the future holds.”

 

 

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(Reprint from Lincoln Parish Journal)

A Chatham woman and a male passenger were arrested on a Lincoln Parish traffic stop after drugs were found in the vehicle.

Sanquetta Craft, 35, of Chatham, and Donald Jenkins, 41, of Ruston, were both arrested after a Lincoln Parish deputy stopped a vehicle on La. Highway 149 on Feb. 21 for crossing the center line into the opposing travel lane.

During the stop, a deputy detected the odor of green marijuana coming from inside the vehicle. A passenger who did not have identification gave his name as Jakelab Modest. However, the deputy was unable to locate a person by that name with the date of birth given by the man.

The man was removed from the vehicle and questioned again about his name, and he identified himself as Donald Jenkins. A records check showed Jenkins was wanted for failure to appear in Third District Court on child support cases.

When Jenkins was arrested, a bag containing suspected marijuana was found in his right jacket pocket. A search of the vehicle located a glass smoking pipe containing suspected methamphetamine, a jar of suspected marijuana, and a plastic bag containing about 22 grams of marijuana, where Jenkins had been seated. Jenkins claimed ownership of these items, according to a deputy’s report.

A bottle of gabapentin prescribed to a person not in the vehicle was located. Craft, the driver, admitted that it belonged to her. She said she got the prescription from someone and was taking them as painkillers.

After both were warned about taking any contraband into the detention center, both Jenkins and Craft denied having any drugs on them. As the patrol vehicle transporting them moved through the front gate of the Lincoln Parish Detention Center, Jenkins said he had a bag of synthetic marijuana on him. About 15.2 grams of suspected synthetic marijuana were recovered from Jenkins by detention center staff.

Jacob was booked on two bench warrants for child support violations, second offense possession of marijuana, possession of synthetic marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, introduction of contraband into a penal facility, and resisting an officer by giving false information.

Craft was booked for possession of a legend drug (gabapentin) and improper lane usage.

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.

 

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The Jackson Parish School Board will hold its regularly scheduled monthly meeting on Monday, March 2nd. The session will take place at 11:00 am in the Conference Room of the Jackson Parish School District Central Office located at 315 Pershing Hwy. in Jonesboro, LA.

School Board Meeting Agenda

1. Invocation– Gerry Mims
2. Pledge of Allegiance – Dennis Clary
3. Call to Order
4. Consider approving the minutes as presented from the Regular Scheduled meeting held on February 2, 2026.
5. Consider approving the 2026-2027 School Calendar.
6. Consider granting Superintendent Carter permission to sign an agreement with The Rosemary Ewing Foundation for the purpose of a 2026 Summer Reading Program.
7. Recognize Instructional Coaches: Brandie Watson, Anna Long, and Katie Seymore
8. Consider adopting items per the Committee Reports attached hereto.
9. Superintendent’s Comments
10. Adjourn

In accordance with the Americans Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance, please contact William Carter at 318-259-4456, describing the assistance that is necessary.

 

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And then there were none! That is the effect of local schools left in the LHSAA girls basketball playoffs after Quitman and Saline High Schools were both defeated in the Quarterfinal Round of their respective divisions. Quitman, seeded #6 in the Class B bracket fell to #3 seed Fairview while #7 Saline lost to #2 Calvin in Class C.

Fairview 86 Quitman 48:  Anyone who has followed the Class B girls basketball playoffs for the past two decades knows that the “Road to Hammond” goes through Fairview High School. After compiling a 22-8 record and an undefeated District 1B championship, that is where the Lady Wolverines’ tremendous year ended after compling a . After a fourth straight 20-plus win season and second straight Quarterfinal appearance under the guidance of head coach Kyle Leach, the Lady Wolverines played the perennial girls basketball power close till midway through the second quarter.

With Quitman trailing only 21-18, Fairview took control by outscoring Quitman 23-5 to end the first half and winning the third quarter by a 25-12 margin. In the contest Fairview shot an incredible 88 field goals, including 49 from the three point line compared to Quitman taking just 44 shots total which led to Fairview also holding a 46 to 29 rebounding advantage.

According to Leach, it was that rebounding advantage that was the difference in the game and the fact that it is hard to keep up with the fast pace that Fariview plays.

“Rebounding is a key anytime you play Fairview and they are so good at attacking the offensive glass,” said Leach. “They got 3-4 offensive boards in a possession as many of their shots were three point attempts and they got long rebounds.”

“They also make it hard by hitting the court running from end to end and keeping up that fast pace the entire game,” continued Leach. “Our girls were in good shape but by the middle of the third quarter they were gassed.”

Anna Claire Leach led Quitman in scoring with 17 points and once again, Hallie Kate Pullig turned in a tremendous playoff performance, equaling a career high in points with 15 and pulling down a game high 9 rebounds. Allie Robertson and Emma Walker scored 6 and 5 points respectively, while Taylor Borland made three points and Kalisa Hall added a basket. 

Despite falling in the Quarterfinals for the second year in a row, Leach was upbeat following the contest and excited about what the future holds. 

“After losing our leading scorer and rebounder last year, I am very proud of the way the girls played this year, especially in the latter part where we won 12 of our last 13 games to end the regular season,” reflected Leach. “I am really looking forward to next season as we have no seniors and everyone coming back.”

Calvin 47 Saline 46: Trailing late in the game, Saline head coach Chris Toms was forced to have his Lady Bobcats resort to putting #2 seed Calvin on the line. It almost worked. The 7th seeded Lady Bobcats had several opportunities in the final minute to take the lead after Calvin missed six straight free throws but couldn’t grab the lead after failing to get shots in their last few possessions.

Saline, which ended the season at 19-13 and claimed the District 1C championship in undefeated fashion, gave Calvin all they could handle, trailing the 28-2 Lady Cougars by just two at 17-15 at the end of the first quarter, taking a 24-21 lead into the half and leading 35-33 heading into the fourth quarter.

Kasidy Sims led the Lady Bobcats in scoring with 14 with twins Morgan and Lanee Cheawood scoring 9 points each. Ally Kate Hillman finished with 5 while JaLynn Jiles scored four points and Tyla Malone sank a first quarter three pointer.

The loss was the fifth this year to Calvin, which Toms reflected on after the game.

“We started and ended our season against a very tough Calvin team. You have to give them credit, as even though we played them tough every game, we just couldn’t get over the hump and pull out a win,” said Toms. “We left everything we had physically and emotionally on the court and I am very proud of their effort. While I hate our season has ended, we wish Calvin the best of luck moving forward.”

Toms also reflected on the growth of his team and made a point of talking about several of his players who were instrumental on the success earned.

“This year we made an incredible leap forward going from a 7 win team to nearly 20 wins this season. We went from a team that complained about the physical play of our opponents to being a team others didn’t want to play because of our physicality on defense,” beamed Toms. “I give a lot of credit for that to our seniors Rayaunnah Pearson and Tyla Malone, who set the tone during pre-season practice and in the early part of the season. There were also several other girls like Kasidy Sims, Lanee Cheatwood, Allly Kate Hillman and JaLynn Jiles who made good leaps forward but another that really stood out was Morgan Cheatwood and her ability to more consistently handle point guard duties even though she was really playing out of position.

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At a recent awards ceremony, Smufit Westrock recently honored 30 employees who have extended service ranging from 25 to 50 years at the Hodge Mill. Receiving recognition were:

50 Years of Service

Gary Brown
Kenny McBride

40 Years of Service

Regina Rowe

35 Years of Service

Scotty Blackstock
James Brown
David Everett
Steve Fox
Cedric Garner
Burt Guin
Daryl Hollis
Richie Schimmel

30 Years of Service

Wendell Bryant
Claude Delaney
Phyliis Kohler

25 Years of Service

Timothy Buckelew
Michael Chatham
Mitch Cockerham
James Ferguson
Kenneth Frost
Michael Hall
Barbara Harriman
Wes Harvey
Michael Heard
Kent Hightower
Barry Brymer
Russell Kelley
Randy Leonard
Kenneth Price
Charles Walker
Allen Washington

 

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The Student/Athletes of the Week for January 18-24 from Jackson Parish School District institutions, Jonesboro-Hodge, Quitman, and Weston High Schools have been selected. Sponsored by the Jackson Parish Hospital, the award recognizes an outstanding student/athlete from each school for their academic achievements and athletic accomplishments. Each award winner was chosen by a select group of faculty and staff from the representative institutions and will receive a special Jackson Parish Hospital Athlete of the Week t-shirt.  

Earning accolades this week are:

Jalenya Jackson – Senior on the Jonesboro-Hodge High School girls basketball team
Allie Robertson – Sophomore on the Quitman High School girls basketball team
Allie Middleton – Freshman on the Weston High School Cheerleading team

Join the Jackson Parish Hospital and the Jackson Parish Journal as we congratulate and applaud these athletes for their commitment, dedication, and achievements in the classroom and their outstanding athletic endeavors!

Student-Athlete of the Week

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You are cordially invited to enjoy the outdoors with the entire family and come to “Movie in the Park” on Sunday, March 1st. The FREE event that is being sponsored by Van Osborne and Jonesboro Assistant Chief of Police, Warren Johnson, will take place at 5:00 pm at Perry Park, located at 340 Cedar Street in Jonesboro.

It is recommended to bring lawnchairs and/or blankets to sit on, as no chairs will be provided for seating. Nachos and drinks will be served, but you can also bring Coolers with drinks and snacks. No alcoholic beverages are allowed. 

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Even though Jonesboro-Hodge, Quitman, and Weston had a combined 3-3 record over this past Thursday through Saturday, the month of February ends with all three Jackson Parish High School baseball teams holding a winning record. 

Weston, ranked #4 in Class B, has the highest ranking and most wins on the early part of the season with an 8-4 record, while JHHS, the 9th-ranked team in Division IV among “non-select” schools, has a 4-2 mark, and Quitman is at 7-5 overall and sits with a #12 ranking in Class B. 

In prep softball, all three Jackson Parish Schools enter week three of the season with one win each. After getting a late start to the season, Weston won their first game, while Jonesboro-Hodge split a pair of games, and Quitman dropped two of the three games against highly ranked schools from higher classifications. 

Prep Baseball Recap

Prairieville 10 Weston 0 (Thursday, Feb. 26): In the opening round of the East Ascencion Tournament played in Gonzales, LA, the Wolves were blown away by the Division I Hurricanes, who rode a perfect game pitching performance to the five-inning victory that snapped a three-game winning streak.  

Rayville 3 JHHS 1 (Friday, Feb. 27): Despite getting 10 hits to just 3 by Rayville, the Tigers fell in the rematch to the Division III Hornets that dropped JHHS to 4-2 on the year. Trey Trosclair scored the Tigers’ only run in the bottom of the seventh inning after opening with a double, the only extra base hit of the day for J-H. Jeramiah Turnage and John LeBlanc both had two hits to lead the offense, which left 9 runners on base, including leaving the bases loaded in the 6th inning. Trosclair was the tough luck loser after allowing only 2 hits and striking out 12 in 5.2 innings of work. 

Weston 5 East Ascension 3 (Friday, Feb. 27): Drew Browning, who led the Wolves with 3 hits and 3 RBI, while also striking out 8 in 7 innings of work on the mound, smashed a double to left field that scored Eric Borders to give the Wolves the lead in the top of the 8th inning.  Kypton Caskey, who had singled, followed with another run on a Jase Borders sacrifice grounder for the final run against the tournament host. 

Quitman 3 Evangel 2 (Saturday, Feb 28): Conner Moak stroked a single that scored Tucker Newton in the bottom of the seventh to give the Wolverines a “walk off” victory over the Division I Eagles in the first game of two played in the Red River Classic. After spotting Evangel a two-run lead in the top of the first inning, Quitman tied the score when Maddox Duck scored on a Kace West double, who later scored on an error with two outs on a ball hit by Newton. 

Quitman 17 North Caddo 6 (Saturday, Feb. 28) Tucker Newton got three hits, scored three times, and had 4 RBI to lead the Wolverines offensive attack that posted the most runs of the season to date. Maddox Duck (3 RS), Kace West (3 RS, RBI), Hudson Pullig (2 RS, 2 RBI), Conner Moak (RS, RBI), and Asher Rhodes (3B, RS, 2 RBI) all hit two hits for the Wolverines, who rapped out 13 hits in the five-inning “mercy rule” victory. 

St. Amant 12 Weston 2 (Saturday, Feb. 28): The 4th ranked team in Division I among “non-select” schools was simply too strong as Weston was held to three hits, two of which were doubles by Liam Weaver and Drew Browning, who scored a run along with Jase Borders. Dawson Griffin got the final Wolves hit.

Prep Softball Recap

JHHS 32 Bastrop 19 (Wednesday, Feb. 25): The Lady Tigers exploded for the most runs scored in over two decades. The 51 runs scored by the two teams were also the most total runs scored since JHHS and Dodson combined for 77 runs in the 2018-19 season. The victory was a first of the year for head coach Geneice Livingston’s squad after losing its first two games of the year. No individual stats were available. 

Lakeview 13 JHHS 3 (Thursday, Feb. 26): A 10-run second inning proved to be the killing blow to the Lady Tigers, who were no-hit by Lakeview pitching in the three-inning contest. Haigen Fenn, Trinity Davis, and Rylie Stephens scored the JHHS runs in the bottom of the second inning after the Lady Tigers had five get hit by a pitch and drew a walk. 

Weston 11 PCA 2 (Friday, Feb. 27): Rachel Bandy smacked a home run and hit a double that accounted for 3 RBI, and Davynee Bearden scored 3 and stole 2 bases to lead the Lady Wolves to their season-opening victory over Providence Classical Academy. Gracie Gray (3B, SB, 2 RS, 2 RBI), Carlynn Waters (RS, RBI, SB), Carly Jo Griffin (2B, RS), all got two hits apiece while Molly Beaubouef (2 RBI, RS) and Hailey Chatham (2 RS, RBI) both smacked a double as Weston had 7 of thier 10 hits go for extra bases. Bandy and Gray combined for 15 strikeouts in 7 innings of work 

Quitman 15 Neville 7 (Friday, Feb. 27): Kinsley Ponder, who had three hits, including a double, knocked in an area-best 6 runs while Brenna Lamkin scored twice and added 4 more RBI on a home run and a single in the Lady Wolverines first game of the year, played at the prestigious Polar Bear Classic in Monroe. Quitman stroked a season best 18 hits with Anna Claire Leach (2 RS, RBI) leading the way with four. Maggie Guyotte (3 RS, RBI), Hallie Kate Pullig (3 RS) added three hits apiece, while Briley Bowers (2 RS, RBI, 2 BB, HBP), Zoie Williamson (RBI) and Keeley Davis (3 SB, 2 RS) all got a hit apiece. 

Hamburg, AR 9 Weston 6 (Saturday, Feb 28): The Lady Wolves outhit their out of state opponent 15 -14 but Hamburg won the most important category to give Weston their first loss of the year in their first game of the Polar Bear Classic. Carlynn Waters (2 SB, RS, RBI) and Carley Jo Griffin (3B, RS, RBI) got three hits each, while Davynee Bearden (2B, 3 SB, 2 RS), Molly Beaubouef (RBI) and Brylee Cuthrell (2B) had two hits apiece. Gracie Gray (3B, RS), Teegan Hall and Rachel Bandy also got a hit. 

Calvary Baptist 9 Quitman 2 (Saturday, Feb. 28): In the battle of two-time defending state champions, Hallie Kate Pullig stroked a double for the Lady Wolverines only hit. Maggie Guyotte and Keeley Davis scored the runs in the contest that saw Quitman make 5 errors. 

OCS 11 Weston 1 (Saturday, Feb 28): Ouachita Christian scored runs in each of the five innings played while Tessa Reeves scored Weston’s only run in the final of three games played at the Polar Bear Classic. Rachel Bandy, Carly Jo Griffin, Hannah Aldy and Davynee Bearden all hit singles. 

West Monroe 7 Quitman 0 (Saturday, Feb. 28): West Monroe pitching scattered 5 singles and shut out Quitman over 7 innings to give the Lady Wolverines their second loss of the day in their final Polar Bear Classic contest. Kinsley Ponder had two hits, while Hallie Kate Pullig, Avery Watson and Amelia Staggs all got a hit apiece. 

Upcoming Games

Monday, March 2nd

JHHS at Haynesville (Baseball) 5:00 pm
Quitman at Glenbrook (Baseball) 6:00 pm
JHHS at Carroll (Softball) 5:00 pm
Quitmanat Choudrant (Softball) 5:30 pm

Tuesday, March 3rd

Weston vs Downsville Charter (Baseball) 5:00 pm
JHHS vs Gibsland-Coleman (Softball) 4:30 pm
Quitman vs Haughton (Softball) 5:30 pm
Weston at Saline (Softball) 4:30 pm

 

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Throughout February, Jonesboro-Hodge Elementary School (J-HES) recognized and celebrated the history and tremendous contributions of Blacks to our state and country.

On Tuesday, February 24, an Annual Black History Program was held at 10:00 a.m. in the Gym featuring Guest Speaker and Math Interventionist, Mrs. Jackye Belton.

“Roughly 40% of students in Louisiana classrooms are Black, and 70% make up J-HES. It is crucial that our students know the struggles and triumphs that have occurred AND that history is still being made. In addition to what students have experienced this month, we’re committed to highlighting this in daily instruction, ensuring students see themselves in their learning and feel a sense of belonging in our buildings. Special thanks to esteemed guardians, faculty, and staff, for their support.” – Ms. Copeland, Principal

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PLEASE VOTE
#52 RACHEL SHIVELY – CLERK OF COURT
ON MAY 16

Dear Jackson Parish Voters,

I am writing this letter of support to personally endorse the current Clerk of Court Rachel Shively. She will be on the ballot for a special election on May 16 to fill the unexpired term for Clerk of Court of Jackson Parish.

Rachel began her employment in the Clerk of Court office on June 1, 2016, before I became Clerk on July 1, 2016. It was very apparent to me from the beginning of her employment that the office had hit the “jackpot” with hiring her as a deputy clerk. With her immediate knowledge of and expertise in the legal field, Rachel became an extremely valuable asset to the office very quickly.

With my employment of over 40 years in the Clerk of Court office, I want to provide you with a little inside knowledge of this elected office. The Clerk of Court must wear many different hats at any given time. That is the most important reason why this elected office is not just about being a public servant or having leadership qualities, both of which are good attributes to possess. However, they are definitely not the only attributes
required to be an efficient and capable Clerk of Court.

Remember—this office receives no tax monies and operates solely with the funds derived from services provided. With only three to five deputy clerks on staff routinely, the Clerk of Court must be a “working Clerk”. In other words, the Clerk must be able to fill in at any time in any department of the office—whether it is going to court, selecting a jury, recording a mortgage, processing a lawsuit, issuing a marriage license, or
teaching a pre-election school—the Clerk must be able to step in and perform any and all of the daily work required of the Clerk’s office.

As you can see, cross-training in all departments of a small rural
Clerk of Court office is very vital to the everyday operations of the office. Being a good leader or having a passion for public service are good traits to have and Rachel exemplifies these traits, also. But the Clerk of Court position requires SO MUCH MORE!!

I can personally assure you that Rachel has received cross-training in all departments of the Clerk’s office and is very efficient in all areas. She became Chief Deputy Clerk of Court during my tenure and is now very capably serving as your current Clerk of Court.

Rachel is, without a doubt, the only candidate qualified and
immensely equipped to continue as your Clerk of Court. With Rachel as your Clerk of Court, Jackson Parish will be provided with the same professional service, expertise, knowledge, and dedication that you, the citizens, have come to expect from this office.

Please join me on May 16 by casting your vote for Rachel Shively #52 – Clerk of Court for Jackson Parish.

Sincerely,
Laura Humble Culpepper
Former Jackson Parish Clerk of Court

Early voting for the May 16 election is May 2 – May 9 (excluding Sunday) from 8:30 am to 6:00 pm in the Registrar of Voters’ office, Jackson Parish Courthouse, Jonesboro, LA

(Paid for by Laura Humble Culpepper)

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The Jackson Parish Alumni Chapter of the Grambling University National Alumni Association, Inc cordially invites all existing and prospective members to a meeting that will be held at 5:30 pm on Tuesday, March 3, 2026. The meeting will take place at the Travelers Rest Baptist Church, located at 409 Congo Street in Jonesboro, LA.

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The JH Tigers youth football team announces that the 2026 Punt, Pass, and Kick event will take place at 11:00 am on Saturday, March 7th at Caldwell – Peacock Stadium on the campus of Jonesboro-Hodge High School, located at 225 Pershing Hwy. in Jonesboro, LA.

Trophies for 1st and 2nd place will be given for age groups 8 and under, 10 and under and 12 and under. Free food and drinks will also be available. 

For more information or to register, contact Coach Van at (318) 243-8711 or Coach Wot at (318) 245-1153 or scan the QR code shown below. 

 

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The Greater North Louisiana Community Development Corporation (GNLCDC) will host its 14th Annual “First Things First: Making a Difference” Breakfast on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at the Charles H. Garrett Community Center, located at 182 Industrial Drive, Jonesboro, Louisiana.

Breakfast service will begin at 8:30 a.m., followed by the program at 9:00 a.m. The theme for this year’s event is “Back with New Beginnings.”

This annual breakfast is the premier fundraising event for GNLCDC and has, for more than fourteen years, featured nationally and regionally respected inspirational speakers serving communities across the organization’s six-parish service area.

The 2026 keynote speaker will be Reverend Dr. Aill R. Harris, Jr., Organizer and Senior Pastor of Abundant Life Church in Natchitoches, Louisiana. Dr. Harris holds a Ph.D. in Biblical Studies from Louisiana Baptist University in Shreveport.

In addition to his pastoral ministry, he is an accomplished songwriter, musician, and vocalist, with two solo projects and the author of two books. He has more than 37 years of preaching experience and is married to Lisa Ann Harris.
Together they have four children.

In addition to the keynote address, the event will include a silent auction to support GNLCDC scholarship initiatives. The 2026 event chairperson is Minister Janice Gray.

Founded in 2000, GNLCDC experienced program interruptions during the COVID-19 pandemic but is actively restoring and expanding its services. These include scholarships, back-to-school initiatives, summer arts programs, business training, and other community-focused services. The organization’s housing program continued uninterrupted throughout the pandemic.

The public is invited to attend the First Things First: Making a Difference Breakfast. For ticket information or details about this and other GNLCDC programs, please call 318-533-7811 or
504-460-6804

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Purple Martins Add Joy To Springtime

When I was a kid growing up in the country, this was the time of year when our family kept our eyes on the skies listening and watching for the arrival of our annual visitors, that being purple martins.

We always had a bird box set up on a pole in the yard, and without fail, there was an air of excitement when we heard the first lilting twitter high in the air, excitement that escalated when a martin landed on our box. It was a pleasure to keep tabs on the pair of martins that found our little box a good place to raise their young and to watch them feed the little ones amid all the flutter and twitter.

That all ended for me after I grew up and left home because in spite of my best efforts to install boxes for martins, I could never attract any, so I had to jealously enjoy those my neighbors had that settled into their living quarters.

Choudrant’s Dick and Trish Albritton are blessed every year with bird houses full of nesting purple martins. I got a message this week from Trish letting me know that they got a Valentine’s Day surprise when the first purple martin scout showed up on their boxes on February 14.

I visited with the Albrittons last year after martins had moved into their houses, and Dick shared some information about how he and Trish attract martins.

“I have 50-60 boxes plus gourds up in our yard, and we have over 50 martins here now,” he said. “My boxes formerly had round entrance holes that martins used, but starlings did too, and that was a problem. My boxes now have smaller rectangle holes, martins have no trouble entering; yet they’re too small for starlings.”

An online site about these birds described them this way…

“Renowned for their chattering songs, aerial acrobatics, insect-eating habits, and tolerance of humans, they stand as one of America’s most cherished songbirds.”

There are other characteristics of purple martins that Albritton has observed.

“Fledglings will return to the spot, often to the same cubicle this spring, where they were hatched last year. Also,” he added, “purple martins like to be close to humans, so it’s important that their houses are 60-100 feet from where people live. There needs to be a water source, such as a pond, and power lines nearby for perching. They start arriving by late February and begin leaving around mid-July.”

Part of the Albrittons’ success with attracting purple martins involves quite a bit of work.

“I will lower the boxes before birds begin arriving to clean them out, and place a handful of straw in each cubicle before raising the boxes.”

I have been seeing reports through Facebook of homeowners reporting the arrival of these birds. They started showing up in places earlier, like Florida, and later along the Gulf coast, but are now starting to move north to give folks in our part of the country the pleasure of watching them for the spring and summer.

Although my success at attracting them has been zero, I can enjoy getting to hear their music high above and seeing them on neighbor’s boxes. I might find excuses to visit Dick and Trish, as I can assure you, their boxes and the surrounding skies will be filled with plenty of flutter and twitter.

FISHING REPORT

CANEY LAKE – Bass are starting to move up to spawning areas and lipless crank baits starting to produce. Crappie have moved up in response to warmer temps anticipating the spawn.
For information contact Caney Lake Landing at 259-6649, Hooks Marina at 249-2347, Terzia Tackle at 278-4498 or the Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707.
BUSSEY BRAKE –Crappie are getting positioned to spawn and are hanging out around the brush. Bass are also moving up in the timber and flipping jigs is picking up some fish. For latest information, contact the Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707.
OUACHITA RIVER – The water is still quite low because of lock and dam problems down stream. Fishing overall is slow for bass and crappie. For latest information, contact the Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707.
LAKE D’ARBONNE – Bass are starting to move up to more shallow areas preparing for the spawn. Jigs and crank baits are picking up some. Crappie are moving up around brush and timber and some are being caught on shiners and jigs. For latest information, call Anderson Sport Center at 368-9669 or Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707.
LAKE CLAIBORNE – Crappie are moving up the back of the creeks to prepare for the spring spawn which with warmer temperatures is right around the corner. Jigs and shiners are picking up some. Bass are hitting crank baits, spinners and soft plastics around shallow brush. Lots of males in the shallows. For latest information, call Kel’s Cove at 927-2264 or Terzia Tackle at 278-4498.
LAKE POVERTY POINT – Catfish are good while crappie are just now beginning to bite around the boat slips on shiners and jigs. No report on bass. For information, call the marina at 318/878-0101.
LAKE YUCATAN – The lake level is on a rise bringing in river water which will bring new fish into the lake. Water temp too cold just yet for crappie and bass. Buffalo and catfish are being caught in nets. For info call Surplus City Landing at 318/467-2259.

 

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