Each year, Smurfit-Westrock helps sponsor the Capitol Cookout, held at the beginning of the legislative session. Representatives from Smurfit join several lobbies for a cookout on the grounds of the Barracks at the Capitol, where steaks, chicken, and sausage are grilled with all the trimmings for members of the Senate and House and their staff.  

Being one of the sponsors of the cookout gives representatives from Smurfit-Westrock an opportunity to visit with legislative members and express their appreciation for the support they have given. 

Representing Smurfit-Westrock were Vilma J. Sneed, Senior Manager, Government Relations, Atlanta, GA, and James Bradford, consultant for Smurfit-Westrock. While the pair alternated in serving, Sneed also spoke and shared photos with Representatives Jack McFarland, Adrian Fisher, and other members of the northeast Louisiana delegation. 

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It was a tough four days (March 25-28) for local schools Jonesboro-Hodge, Quitman and Weston on the diamond as local baseball teams won three of seven games played with all three Jackson Parish schools winning one game each and the three local softball teams winning only three of eight games played, with Quitman winning two of four games played, Weston winning one of three and JHHS losing their only game.  

Quitman High School Softball

The Lady Wolverines opened play by beating Doyline 16-1 in a District 1B battle on Wednesday, followed by beating Ponchatoula 13-3 in their opening game of the Quitman Invitational on Friday before dropping their final two games 4-1 to St. Frederick of Monroe and 4-3 to Archbishop Chappelle from New Orleans on Saturday to end the week with a 13-8 record. 

Quitman 17 Doyline 1: Hallie Kate Pullig set a new career high by knocking in 6 runs, and Kinsley Ponder hit a pair of doubles and drove in four. Maggie Guyotte reached base in all four plate appearances with a double and three walks while scoring 3 runs. Avery Watson also had a big game with two hits, two runs scored, and two RBI, and Zoee Williams had two hits, including a triple, and scored two runs. Anna Claire Leach scored three runs as well. 

Quitman 13 Ponchatoula 3: Maggie Guyotte earned Player of the Game honors by 446 Sports after having a monster game of two home runs and a triple while scoring three runs and knocking in three, giving her four straight extra base hits over two games. Anna Claire Leach (2 RS) and Brenna Lamkin (3 RBI) both hit doubles, while Hallie Kate Pullig had two hits, scored twice, and had an RBI. Keeley Davis scored three times and both Zoee Wiliams and Avery Watson had a hit and two RBI. Anna Pardue also scored a run. 

St. Frederick 4, Quitman 1: Anna Claire Leach (RS)and Kinsley Ponder had two hits apiece for the Lady Wolverines, who never could make up the difference of a two-out, three-run home run in the first inning by St. Frederick’s of Monroe.  Brenna Lamkin was the hard-luck loser despite only giving up four hits and one earned run in seven innings of work, where she struck out 12. 

Archbishop Chapelle 4, Quitman 3: After Brenna Lamkin opened the bottom of the 7th inning with a double, singles by Zoee Williams, Avery Watson, and Anna Claire Leach tied the score at 3-3 before Archbishop Chapelle hit a home run in the top of the 9th to give Quitman the hard-fought extra-inning loss. With Quitman down 3-0, Lamkin hit the first of her two doubles on the day and scored after Briley Bowers singled and Zoee Williams hit a sacrifice grounder to narrow the deficit to 3-1.

Weston High School Softball

The Lady Wolves won one of three games played in the Quitman Invitational, opening with a 15-5 loss to Florien on Friday before coming back to beat Calvin 13-3 in the first of two games on Saturday where Weston lost 13-2 to Hicks in the nightcap to end the week with a 6-12 overall record. 

Florien 15 Weston 5: Kate Keiffer doubled, and Carlynn Waters reached on an error to stake Weston to a 2-0 lead, but nine errors and nine walks were too much to overcome. Teegan Hall had a triple, scored a run, and knocked one in, and Brooklyn Keiffer had two RBI.

Weston 13, Calvin 3: Kate Keiffer scored four runs and had 2 RBI, and both Carlynn Waters and Tessa Reeves crossed home plate twice each as Weston capitalized on three hits into 3 runs thanks to six errors and six walks by Calvin. Carly Jo Griffin, Brooklyn Keiffer and Molly Beaubouef all scored a run. Gracie Gray picked up the win by allowing only four hits in five innings of work. 

Hicks 13 Weston 2: Another sloppy day in the field, where Weston made 8 errors, which led to 12 unearned runs, including 9 in the fourth inning of the five-inning “mercy rule” contest. Rachel Bandy hit a triple and, along with Teegan Hall and Carly Jo Griffin, had two hits apiece.  

Jonesboro-Hodge High School Softball 

Simsboro 17 JHHS 0: The Lady Tigers lost their only game played to drop to 3-12 on the season. No individual stats were available. 

Weston High School Baseball

Ranked #6 in the Class B power ratings with a 15-10 record at the end of the week, the Wolves beat Union Parish 15-3 on Thursday before falling 10-3 to St. Frederick’s of Monroe on Friday.

Weston 15 Union Parish 3: The “Border Brothers” of Jase and Easton drove in 4 and 3 runs each while Ty Henderson and Liam Weaver scored three runs apiece. Drew Browning added a double, 2 RBI, and two runs scored, while Beaux Oliver had two hits and scored two runs. Dawson Griffin, Bryce Tolar, and Kyptin Caskey all had a hit each. 

St. Frederick’s 10 Weston 3: Six runs by St. Frederick’s in the top of the fifth inning broke open a 2-2 game and sent Weston to the loss. Drew Browning, Liam Weaver, and Bryce Tolar all had two hits each, while Dawson Griffin and Remy Kennard both hit a single.   

Quitman High School Baseball

The Wolverines won one of three straight road games against schools from higher classifications by sandwiching a 10-7 victory over Class 2A Red River on Friday with losses on Thursday and Saturday to Class 5A Airline by a 10-0 score and a 8-1 loss to Class 4A Minden on Saturday that left Quitman with a 13-11 record. 

Airline 10 Quitman 0: Kace West managed the only hit allowed by Airline, who scored 10 runs in four innings to win the game called early due to the “10 run rule”. Hudson Pullig, Asher Rhodes, Tucker Barnett, and Hayden Seymore all got on base via walks. 

Quitman 10, Red River 7: Zach Smudrick had a career game at the plate with two doubles and a triple that led to two runs scored and 5 RBI. Maddox Duck hit a double and scored three runs, while Kace West scored twice, and both Hudson Pullig and Conner Moak added a run. 

Minden 8 Quitman 1: Seven runs by the Crimson Tide in their last at bat broke up a pitchers’ duel that saw Minden holding a slim 1-0 lead after 6 1/2 innings of play.  Tucker Barnett scored Quitman’s run in the top of the seventh inning when Cannon Harper drove him in with a double in his only at-bat. 

Jonesboro-Hodge High School Baseball

Jonesboro-Hodge split a pair of District 1-1A contests falling to Cedar Creek, ranked #2 among “select” schools in Division IV, on Wednesday, by a 26-0 score, before coming back to beat Lincoln Prep 17-12 on Thursday. With the split the Tigers, ranked #15 in Division IV improved to 11-4 overall and 3-3 in District 1-1A play. No game statistics were available. 

PREP BASEBALL / SOFTBALL STANDINGS

District 1-1A Baseball

School	District Record	Overall Record
Cedar Creek	3-0	18-3
Glenbrook	3-0	13-12
Plain Dealing	3-1	8-10
Haynesville	2-1	8-6
JHHS	3-3	11-4
Ringgold	2-4	9-11
Lincoln Prep	0-2	2-9
Arcadia	0-3	0-7

District 1B Baseball

School	District Record	Overall Record
Weston	3-0	15-10
Quitman	2-1	14-10
Simsboro	2-1	17-6
Doyline	1-2	6-11
PCA	1-2	7-11
Castor	0-3	6-7

District 1-1A Softball

School	District Record	Overall Record
Glenbrook	3-0	18-3
Cedar Creek	3-0	14-10
JHHS	2-1	3-11
Plain Dealing	2-1	11-3
Haynesville	1-2	2-7
Arcadia	0-2	1-2
Lincoln Prep	0-2	0-7
Ringgold	0-3	3-9

District 1B Softball 

School	District Record	Overall Record
Quitman	3-0	13-8
Weston	2-1	6-13
Castor	1-2	12-6
Doyline	1-3	7-4
Simsboro	0-1	8-13
PCA	0-0 (not eligible)	6-4

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The new home for Sharonda Leonard, being built by Habitat for Humanity in Jonesboro, North Louisiana, at 265 Bond Street, is starting to take shape. 

As part of the construction process, a beautiful tradition has taken place in which members of the Habitat for Humanity home building team and local supporters surrounded the home with God’s Word and celebrated the journey ahead by writing Bible verses on the studs of the walls.  

 

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The Student/Athletes of the Week for March 22-28 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 and athletic achievements. 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:

Levi Southern – 8th grader on the Weston High School track team
Kace West – Senior on the Quitman High School baseball team
Mexia Walker – Junior on the Jonesboro-Hodge High School softball 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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The Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office took part in the annual Jackson Parish Special Education Field Day held at the Jackson Parish Recreation Department Sports Complex. 

Made possible through the collaboration of local schools and community members, JPSO’s support marks the third year of participation in the tremendous event for the youth of the parish. 

Through the “Friends of Jackson Parish” program, the JPSO remains committed to the support of events that make a meaningful difference in the lives of students and families. 

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In an effort to honor the outstanding educators who toil tirelessly to give students in the Jackson Parish school system the best education possible, the Jackson Parish School District (JPSD) is pleased to continue the weekly educator recognition program, “Who We Are Wednesday.”

Each Wednesday, one of the JPSD faculty members is recognized for their tremendous commitment, dedication, and excellence in the classroom, which helps our local youth prepare for their future endeavors. This week, Karen Wimberly, a passionate 6th and 7th Grade Social Studies Teacher at Jonesboro-Hodge Middle School, is honored as “Staff Standout.”

With 10 years in education, including 3 years in the classroom and 4 years serving Jackson Parish Schools, Karen brings heart and determination to her students every day and believes that teaching is all about making a difference.

She values the opportunity to guide and encourage her students to believe in themselves and reach their full potential. She also embraces the challenge of growing as an educator, knowing that every day brings new opportunities to learn right alongside her students. For her, seeing student growth is the most rewarding part of the job.

One of the most memorable moments in her career came when she was selected by her colleagues as Jackson Parish New Teacher of the Year, and later honored as the District New Teacher of the Year. These recognitions served as a powerful reminder that her dedication and passion were making an impact.

Karen credits two educators as major influences in her journey: Gromika Palmer, who inspired her to pursue teaching while working as a para, and Joia Crowe, who continues to challenge and encourage her to grow and reach her highest potential.

If she weren’t in education, Karen would be working in social work, continuing her passion for helping children. Outside of school, she is the Owner and Founder of Karen’s Kreations LLC, where she enjoys crafting and making specialty popcorn balls and rice krispy treats.

She also serves as the J-HHS Cheer Coach, where she loves building team unity and creating meaningful experiences for her students. When she’s not at work or practice, she treasures time at home with her four children—Tkeiriyah, Madasyn, Andrew, and Ayden—and her family.

Join us in celebrating Karen Wimberly as the Jackson Parish School District “Staff Standout.”

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A total of 37 girls and boys track teams descended on Quitman High School on Thursday, March 26th, for the annual Wolverine Invitational Relays, with JHHS, Weston, and Saline High Schools competing along with host Quitman. 

In team competition, JHHS, Quitman, and Saline took second, third, and fourth place in the girls division, while QHS came in third and JHHS 7th in boys action, rounding out the top ten team finishes. Saline High came in a tie for 17th place on the boys’ side while Weston did the same in girls competition, with both earning two points on the day. 

 

Quitman Invitational Team and Individual Results

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The Jonesboro Study Guild held its monthly meeting on March 24th. The program was presented by Marilyn Walker, who introduced her son, Jason, who spent four years in ROTC followed by four years in the Air Force, as the Special Guest Speaker. 

In attendance were May Saulters, Lisa McConthy, Rosemary Ewing, Paula Jimmerson, Stacy Albritton, Kathy Allen, Christie Weeks, Jolene Carson, Wilda Smith, Marilyn Walker, and Joann Teat.

After President May Saulters called the meeting to order, Jason delivered an engaging presentation on military patches, noting that he has collected approximately 3,000 patches over the years, explaining that their origins date back to the 1800s and that each era has had its own distinct designs. He further demonstrated how each patch has its own meaning and purpose, even those representing groups such as the Flying Tigers.

Following the presentation, the group moved to the discussion of new business, which included President May Saulters appointing a nominating committee consisting of Paula Jimmerson, Marilyn Walker, and Lisa McConthy, and asking that their report be ready for presentation at the April meeting.

At the end of the session, refreshments were served by meeting hosts Jolene Carson and Lisa McConthy.

 

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Sophia Kliebert came in third place individually, and Ella Simonelli was just one behind in fourth place as the pair lifted Quitman High School to the championship of girls varsity competition at the Front 9 Tour Event held at the Jackson Parish Golf Course on March 25th. 

Top twenty finishes by Mason Thomas (7th Place), Tucker Barnett (13th Place), and Kace Westin (20th Place) led the Wolverines to a 3rd place finish in varsity boys team competition. Austin Durbin was the top Weston High School finisher at #21.

Cedar Creek in Ruston won first place in varsity boys team action, followed by Choudrant High. In individual play, George Pullin of Cedar Creek, who has Jackson Parish roots, shot 2 over par to take titelist honors. 

Additional Jackson Parish competitors were:
#23 – Cooper Lancaster – QHS
#30 – Aiden Rhodes – QHS
#36 – James Odenbaugh – WHS

In junior varsity competition, Jase Warran, Andrew Brown and Aiden Vo all from Quitman High School finished in sixth, seventh and eighth place overall. 

For complete tournament scoring, go to: https://www.front9tour.com

 

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The administration and staff of Forest Haven Nursing Home and Rehabilitation Center in Jonesboro know that achieving another birthday is something to celebrate. This month, 13 residents “made another trip around the sun,” and their special day was recognized by specialty cakes being presented. 

Please join in wishing a Happy Birthday to:
Barbara Arnold, 89
Rhonda Blewer, 64 
Lattamore Buckner, 76
Laura Caldwell, 66
Lila Cartwright, 92
Dichlora Gray, 96 
Michael Hawkins, 58
Alma Jones, 72
Marilyn Knighten, 78
Thomas Rowell, 64
Don Travis, 78
Bobbie Williams, 70 
Patricia Wiltcher, 86 

Happy Birthday!

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Make plans to come to the Fred’s Parking Lot on the corner of Hwy 4 and Hwy 167 in Jonesboro on April 4th to support the “Coach Tate” memorial scholarship fundraiser through the purchase BBQ plates.

Enjoy a delicious meal of BBQ ribs, dirty rice, baked beans, desert and a drink all for $15.00 per plate. All proceeds go toward funding the first annual scholarship in memory of former JHHS graduate and JHMS Middle School coach Tay’Vionne Tate.

Donations can also be made at Jackson Parish Bank in Jonesboro, where an account has been opened. Donation deadline is April 6th, 2026. 

Thank you for your generosity, love and continued support for honoring Tay’Vionne’s legacy by assisting in helping provide funding for a local graduate to continue their education. 

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Under the guidance of Derek Shields, the tradition of hanging “Blue Felt” from the rafters of the Weston High School Ag building continues as WHS brought home another banner from the Louisiana State Career Development Event (CDE) held in Baton Rouge, LA, on Friday, March 27th. 

Representing the Weston High School FFA and earning a 4th-place finish in the Floriculture CDE were Emily Taylor, Ashlynn Higgins, Madelyn Ramsey, and Allison Ramsey. 

“These kids have absolutely no idea just how happy this makes me,” beamed Shields. “They don’t realize how far these things like hard work, dedication, and determination can take them in the game of life just yet.”

WHS FFA offering picnic tables for sale

The Weston High School FFA announces that several wooden picnic tables are still available for purchase. Cost is $250.00 per table, complete with bench seating. Tables are available for viewing in front of the Ag Building at WHS. 

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Bad Decision Averted at Last Minute

It almost didn’t happen. A real close call if ever there was one.

It was mid-April in 1992. My plans had been carefully laid out and the level of excitement was starting to build as I contemplated what was about to take place.

The weather was warm, purple martins were twittering overhead and the woods had already turned a bright green. For me, that meant only one thing; the bluegills were moving to the beds to spawn and I already had my ultra-light spin-cast rigs loaded with tasty looking little jigs on some and hooks, sinkers and floats on others. All I needed was to load up, grab a bucket of crickets and head for the pond where I knew the fun was about to begin.

Then, the phone rang. It was my outdoor writer friend from Alabama, John Phillips, offering me a turkey hunting trip to Alabama. I had begun to plan how to thank him for thinking of me but declining his invitation because the bluegills were calling me.

What he said next gave me pause. “I have a guide ready for you, I’ll send you a pre-paid plane ticket, a nice place to stay. Oh by the way, I have a shotgun, turkey calls and plenty of camo pants and shirts waiting for you.”

It didn’t take long for me to realize that the bluegills could wait a little longer and a trip like this should trump for a few days what the bluegills could offer. Plus, I could be back on the bream beds in a couple of weeks anyhow. So, I said let’s do it.

After receiving my plane ticket, I headed for the airport and my mind started working on the thought of doing something I had never ever done, and that was to hunt wild turkeys. I didn’t have a clue about how to hunt turkeys but all the nice stuff Phillips had dangled out before me gave me reason to decide I’d give it my best shot.

Arriving at the airport, I stepped off the plane and was met by a jovial fellow and when he introduced himself, I had to stifle a grin. He said, “Hi; I’m Skinny”. He was anything but skinny as he had to weigh 300 pounds. He was my guide, Dennis “Skinny” Hallmark.

We drove to his camp far back in the woods near the hamlet of Rockford, Alabama, got our gear stowed as he talked about turkey hunting and giving me information about something I knew nothing about.

The next morning, we were up early, I got dressed in my new camo, fingered my new shotgun and turkey calls and Skinny led us down a dim road long before daylight where we stopped and waited for dawn.

As soon as it was light enough to see, Skinny shocked me when he cupped his hand around his mouth, leaned his head back and hooted like an owl. I thought we were hunting turkeys; not owls. Immediately, I heard the first gobble I had ever heard as I realized the hoot of the owl caused a gobbler to sound off.

Skinny pointed to a big tree, whispered for me to sit down, put my shotgun on my knee as he settled in behind me and began yelping like a turkey hen. The gobbler in the tree out front responded and within minutes, I saw something confusing. I looked like a softball sitting atop a dark lump coming through the woods and the form of a strutting gobbler took shape.

The bird stopped 25 yards from us, Skinny whispered “shoot”. Although I was shaking like a leaf, I did and my first wild turkey gobbler hit the ground.

That date, April 13, 1992, is affixed to the plaque hanging on my office wall that holds the fan, beard and spurs of the first of 40-plus gobblers I have taken. It was that first one, though, that created a lifetime of passion for chasing and messing with these majestic birds that not even a bed of bluegills could match.

 

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FISHING REPORT

CANEY LAKE – Bass have moved up to spawning areas with some good fish caught on creature baits, spinners and jigs. Crappie have moved in around shallow brush to spawn and jigs and shiners are taking some good ones. 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 being caught shallow for the spawners and a bit deeper for those not quite ready to spawn Bass are on shallow structure and are hitting a variety of lures. 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 latest information, contact the Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707.
LAKE D’ARBONNE – Bass are in the shallows as well as around the secondary points and are hitting jigs, spinners, Rat-L-Traps and soft plastics. Crappie are doing well in the shallows as the spawn is going on. No bream reports yet. For latest information, call Anderson Sport Center at 368-9669 or Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707.
LAKE CLAIBORNE – Crappie have moved up the creeks and have started spawning in the back of the creeks with jigs and shiners picking up some nice ones. Bass are moving shallow and are hitting crank baits, spinners and soft plastics around brush. For latest information, call Kel’s Cove at 927-2264 or Terzia Tackle at 278-4498.
LAKE POVERTY POINT – Fishing has improved with crappie starting to spawn in the shallows hitting jigs and shiners. No report on bass or bream. Catfishing is good. For information, call the marina at 318/878-0101.
LAKE YUCATAN – The water is on a slow fall but water temperature is too cold for bass and crappie. However, lots of buffalo and catfish are being caught in nets. For info call Surplus City Landing at 318/467-2259.

The Jackson Parish Golf Course announces the winners of the second “Tuesday Scramble” of the season, which was held on March 24th. Coming in first place with a score of 9-under par were David Broadway, Chris Williams, Grant Williams, Gary Nunn, and Cody Donaldson.

Finishing in second place, just one stroke behind at 8-under par was Zack Pickett, Daniel Rollinson, Brandon Joyner, Jacob Lauderman,  and Jeff Conville. Taking third place were Ian Tilley, Blake Smith, Gary Willis, Landon Lutrick, and Brandon Busch at 7-under par. 

The Tuesday Scramble is a nine-hole tournament in which teams are paired and compete in a scramble format: each player on a team hits a ball, then each player hits again from the spot of the best shot. To take part, players must sign up in the clubhouse at least one hour prior to the tournament. 

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When I was a little boy, keys were my thing. Not toys. Not marbles. Not baseball cards. Keys. Real, metal, grown-up keys—the kind that clinked in your pocket and made you feel like you had access to the universe.

And I had a source.

My grandfather—Pop—was a policeman. And apparently in the 1960s, Americans were losing keys at a rate that can only be described as “biblical.” Pop would bring me bags of keys. Now, I’m sure it was only three or four at a time, but to my young eyes it looked like Fort Knox had sprung a leak.

I had a ritual. A system. A liturgy of keys.

• House keys over here
• Car keys over there
• Mystery keys (the ones that looked like they opened secret government bunkers) in a special pile

Back then, every car company had its own key design. Ford keys looked like Ford keys. GM keys looked like GM keys. Chrysler keys looked like they were designed on a Friday afternoon. And because Ford also made Mercury, their keys were cousins—interchangeable in shape, though not in function. You could slip a Mercury key into a Ford ignition, but it wasn’t supposed to turn.

Supposed to.

One Friday night, Pop dropped off a fresh batch of keys. I sorted them with the precision of a jeweler. Then I grabbed a couple of Mercury keys and headed outside for what I can only describe as unauthorized field research.

I climbed into our 1961 Ford Galaxie—bench seat, steering wheel the size of a hula hoop, and an ignition switch that sat right on the dashboard like it was daring you to try something foolish.

I inserted a Mercury key.
It fit.
But it didn’t turn.

I inserted another Mercury key.
It fit.
It didn’t turn.

Then came key number three.

I slid it in, gave it a twist, and—VROOOOM—the Ford Galaxie roared to life like it had been waiting all day for a small child to hot wire it. Naturally, I followed the adult pattern I had observed:

I pulled the column shifter down into “D.”

“D” meant go.

And go it did.

The car lurched forward and traveled a majestic, triumphant five feet straight into the side of the house. The dent remained for forty years, a permanent historical marker commemorating the beginning of my illustrious driving career.

The adults poured out of the house like a fire drill—Mom, Dad, and Pop the policeman.

“How did you start the car?” they asked.

I explained my key-based methodology. Pop immediately cut off my Ford key supply.

I still had a large collection of GM keys, though, and Pop owned a Chevrolet. I had a whole testing plan ready for that vehicle. Sadly, my research program was shut down before Phase Two.

Jesus has given us the keys to the Kingdom—and unlike my Mercury Ford experiment, these keys actually belong to us, they always fit, and they never cause property damage.

You’re not locked out.
You’re not stuck in “Park.”
You don’t have to hotwire your way into grace.

The astonishing truth is this:

In Christ, you already hold the keys.

Keys to freedom.
Keys to forgiveness.
Keys to hope.
Keys to a life that actually goes somewhere.

And unlike that 1961 Ford Galaxie, you won’t crash into the side of the house when you use them.

Jesus hands you the keys and says, “Go ahead. Turn the ignition. Live. Move. Be free.”

That’s a Kingdom worth driving toward.

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

SHERIFF’S SALE

PARISH OF JACKSON
STATE OF LOUISIANA

CARRINGTON MORTGAGE SERVICES, LLC.
vs. # 38044
STACY 0. SPENCER, WILLIAM C. SPENCER, JR.

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 principal front door of the JACKSON PARISH SHERIFF’S OFFICE, Jonesboro, Louisiana, on Wednesday, the 29th day of APRIL, 2026. Between the hours governing judicial sales, the following property to wit:

LOT 27, UNIT 2, OF GOODWOOD SUBDIVISION, A SUBDIVISION OF JONESBORO, JACKSON PARISH, LOUISIANA, SITUATED IN THE EAST 1/2 OF THE SW 1/4, SECTION 6, TOWNSHIP 14 NORTH, RANGE 3 WEST, PER THE REVISED PLAT OF SAID SUBDIVISION DATED NOVEMBER 1967, PREPARED BY JC. WAGNON, REGISTERED CIVIL ENGINEER, ON FILE AND OF RECORD IN PLAT BOOK A, PAGE 20, RECORDS OF THE CLERK OF COURT OF JACKSON PARISH, LOUISIANA, TOGETHER WITH ALL BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS SITUATED THEREON. ADDRESS OF 2102 SOUTH POLK AVENUE, 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 WITH the benefit of appraisal.

BRENT BARNETT, SHERIFF
EX-OFFICIO, AUCTIONEER
3/18/26
4/22/26

SHERIFF’S SALE

PARISH OF JACKSON
STATE OF LOUISIANA

Century Next Bank
#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 principal front door of the JACKSON PARISH SHERIFF’S OFFICE, Jonesboro, Louisiana, on Wednesday, the 1st day of APRIL, 2026 Between the hours governing judicial sales, the following property to wit:

(A) 2016 TfGERCAT LOADER MODEL 234B, SERIAL NO. 2342263
(8) 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. IDW948LBTMF712104

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
3/18/26

SHERIFF’S SALE

PARISH OF JACKSON
STATE OF LOUISIANA

GUARANTY BANK & TRUST CO. OF DELHI
VS #37995
GRACE-LYNN, 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 principal front door of the JACKSON PARISH SHERIFF’S OFFICE, Jonesboro, Louisiana, on Wednesday, the 6th day of MAY, 2026. Between the hours governing judicial sales, the following property to wit:

LOT NO. TWO (2) OF THE RE-SUBDIVISION OF LOT NUMBERS 10 THROUGH 24 OF THE RE-SUBDIVISION OF A PORTION OF BLOCKS 1 AND 4 AND A PORTION OF BLOCKS 7 AND 8 OF THE CHATHAM ADDITION OF THE TOWN OF CHATHAMVILLE AND IS LOCATED IN THE SOUTHWEST QUARTER (SW 1/4) OF SECTION 2, TOWNSHIP 15 NORTH, RANGE 1 WEST, CHATHAM, JACKSON PARISH, LOUISIANA.

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
3/25/26
4/29/26

CAREER OPPORTUNITY

HELP WANTED

BUSINESS SERVICES

BUSINESS SERVICES

Davis Ray Duck Sr.
October 1, 1947 – March 26, 2026

David Ray Duck, 78, of Jonesboro, Louisiana, passed away peacefully at his home on March 26, 2026, following a lengthy illness.

David Ray was born on October 1, 1947, in Hodge, Louisiana to Dave and Atsie Duck. He spent his life rooted in the values of family, friendship, and a deep love for the outdoors. An avid
sportsman, he found great joy in hunting, fishing and listening to a good hound race. He worked as a millwright at the paper mill in Hodge for 28 years.

When not working, David Ray would often be found in his garden with his dog Lou Lou by his side or relaxing at his camp at Black Lake. He was a life-long member of McDonald Memorial Baptist Church and in his later years attended Weston Baptist Church.

David Ray was preceded in death by his father and mother,
Dave and Atsie Duck, his sister, Ann Stringer and his faithful dog, Big Red.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Pamela K. Duck; children: Roxanne Duck, David Ray Duck, Jr. and wife Lesley; step-children: Glenda Jackson and husband Bruce, Lynette
Pennington and husband Chris, Jason Haas and wife Anna; grandchildren Spencer Duck (Caitlin), Sarah Beth Bates (Mason), Riley, Maddox and Lily Duck; and step-grandchildren
Aubrey, Madelyn, Ethan, Noah, Haley and Jake; 3 great grandchildren Camdon, Machaela and Brooks; and his nieces, nephews and other family and friends. He was deeply loved and
cherished by all.

The family also wishes to recognize his former wife, Karen, for the special care, friendship and support she so generously gave during his illness; close friends, Michael Dark and Brenda
Simmons; Ochsner LSU Health Medical Center, ACG Hospice and numerous others who provided care throughout his illness.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Paradise Funeral Home, with services to be held at McDonald Memorial Baptist Church on Sunday, March 29, 2026 at 2 pm.

Robert “Hobo” Williams
December 12, 1940 – March 24, 2026

Robert Lamar “Hobo” Williams, 85, of Quitman, Louisiana, passed away peacefully in Shreveport on Tuesday, March 24, 2026. He was a proud veteran of the Louisiana Army National Guard. Robert found great joy in the outdoors and was an avid fisherman and hunter, as well as a dedicated member of the Lowes Pasture Hunting Club. He also enjoyed the freedom of the open road on his motorcycle.

Robert had a deep love for his family and friends and cherished the time he spent with them. Later in life, he embraced his faith in the Lord and faithfully served as a deacon at Union Baptist Church.

He is survived by his son, Scott Williams (Patricia); grandchildren, Brittani Griffin (Rich), Benjamin Filkins and Brianna Williams; 6 great-grandchildren; brother, Joe Williams (Karen); nieces, Mary Allen (Jeff), Elizabeth Williams, Kristi Williams and Michelle Taylor; nephews, Michael Williams (Amber), and Mark Williams; and many other relatives and friends.

Robert was preceded in death by his father, Clyde Melton Williams; mother, Addie Lillian (Faulk) Williams; son, Shannon Williams; grandchild, Cameron Williams; and brother, Marshall Williams.

Friends may visit with the family at Union Baptist Church (123 Union Church Rd. Quitman, LA 71268) on Monday, March 30, 2026, from 9:00 AM until 11:00 AM. Bro. Gerald Nelson will conduct the funeral service which will begin at 11:00 AM. Burial will follow in the Union Cemetery under the direction of Southern-Edmonds Funeral Home of Jonesboro, Louisiana.

Serving as pallbearers will be Michael Williams, Mark Williams, Mike Brown, Jeff Allen, Scott Williams and Joe Williams.

Tammy Louise Collinsworth Watts
June 6, 1960 – March 22, 2026

Tammy Louise Collinsworth Watts of Saline, Louisiana, was born on June 6, 1960, in Jonesboro, Louisiana and passed away on March 22, 2026, in Shreveport, Louisiana, at the age of 65. She was a proud graduate of Bienville Academy, class of 1978, and later earned her Bachelor’s Degree from Louisiana Tech University in 1983.

Tammy was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She found her greatest joy in raising her children and spending time with her family. She had a passion for sewing, canning, reading, and she loved serving her community as a substitute teacher at the local school. Tammy will be remembered for her caring heart, strong spirit, and the love she poured into everyone around her.

She is survived by her loving husband of 43 years, Reggie Watts; her sons, Quent (Pam) and Cade; her daughters, Shannon (Chris), Lacey, and Tessa; and her cherished grandchildren, Rance, Caroline, Preston, Gunner, Grayson, Peyton, and Harper. She is also survived by her sisters, Jane (Eddy), Vicki (Wesley), and Paula (David); her brother, Danny; and a host of nieces and nephews.

Tammy is preceded in death by her parents, J.D. and Faye Collinsworth, and her son-in-law, Colby Hunt.

The family would like to thank everyone for the prayers, love, and support shown during this difficult time. Your kind messages, calls, and prayers have meant more than words can express.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, March 26, 2026 at 2 PM at Old Saline Baptist Church in Saline, Louisiana. Visitation will be held Wednesday, March 25, 2026 from 5-8 PM at Old Saline Baptist Church. The service will be officiated by Bro. Michael Sanders.

Serving as pallbearers; Quent Watts, Cade Watts, Gunner Fontenot, Rance Watts, Austin Pike, and J.D. Collinsworth.

Luegenia C. Booker
December 24, 1941 – March 19, 2026

Lugenia C. Booker, born on December 24, 1941, passed away on March 28, 2026, at the age of 74 years old. After a public viewing on Friday, March 27th, in the Paradise Funeral Home Chapel in Jonesboro, LA, the Celebration of Life services were held on Saturday, March 28th at Pleasant Hill Baptist Church in Jonesboro under the direction of Paradise Funeral Home in Jonesboro, LA. 

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The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (LA DOTD)  announces that a section of LA Hwy 811, located approximately 2.3 miles east of US 167 near North Hodge in Jackson Parish, will be closed to through traffic beginning Saturday, March 28. 

The road closure is anticipated to last 1 day, and the highway should be reopened for through traffic on Sunday, March 29th, 2026, weather permitting.  

This closure is located approximately 2.3 miles east of its intersection with US 167 and is necessary to replace a cross-drain pipe that is compromising the roadway’s integrity.

DOTD reminds motorists to NEVER drive around ‘road closed’ barricades at any time for any reason.

Restrictions/Permits:

Total road closure at the specified location. All vehicles will need to utilize an alternate route.

Alternate Route:

Detour signage will be in place.

Safety reminder:

DOTD appreciates your patience and reminds you to please drive with caution through the construction site and be on the lookout for work crews and their equipment.

Area residents should exercise caution when driving, walking, or biking near an active construction zone.

Additional information:

Call 511, visit www.511la.org, or download the Louisiana 511 mobile app for additional information. Out-of-state travelers may call 1-888-ROAD-511 (1-888-762-3511). Motorists may also monitor the LA DOTD website at www.dotd.la.gov, by selecting MyDOTD, or by visiting the DOTD Facebook and Twitter pages.

 

 

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Can a young person’s athletic ability help save a life? It can when that ability belongs to a person whose character and commitment are combined with love for others who are disadvantaged and often in life-threatening medical situations. 

And because of a wonderful idea by Quitman High School student/athlete Maggie Guyotte for a senior class project, you can also take part through donating to the “Homeruns for Hope” fundraiser, where all money raised goes to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. 

Beginning this Thursday with the Quitman Invitational Softball Tournament, you are asked to donate an amount of money of your choice for every home run hit. It can be for a homerun by any player, or home runs hit by a team(s) during the tournament, or for the rest of the year by a player or any team, anywhere. Your donation isn’t restricted to just softball teams in the state but baseball teams can get involved as well. 

The fundraising idea has quickly become popular in the sports community and has even caught the eye of the producers of 446 Sports, who not only did a feature interview with Guyotte but also will be streaming the tournament games on their website and have pledged $10.00 for every home run hit during the tournament to the project. 

“I’ve always wanted to do something for St. Jude’s,” said Guyotte on how her fundraising idea came to fruition during her 446 Sports interview. “It is heartbreaking to see young people go through such tragedy, and we have had a family member suffer from childhood cancer, so we know what it feels like to see them deal with things like this.”

To donate money to the Homeruns For Hope Fundraiser, click on the QR code shown below and follow the instructions on the link. 

Quitman Invitational to feature top softball teams across the state

Other than the annual state tournament, it is not often that fans of high school softball can watch the top teams from across the state in one place. That is the case this Thursday and Friday, March 27-28, when 24 of the top teams in the state from all classifications, including Quitman and Weston High Schools from Jackson Parish, descend on the Jackson Parish Recreation Department Sports Complex for the 7th annual Quitman Invitational. The game schedule is shown below.

Schedule of Games for Jackson Parish Schools

The Quitman Invitational isn’t the only softball and baseball games scheduled for Jackson Parish schools. For a complete schedule of games this Wednesday – Saturday see below. 

Wednesday, March 25th

JHHS vs Cedar Creek (Baseball) 5:00 pm

Thursday, March 26th

JHHS vs Union (Softball) 5:30 pm
Quitman at Airline (Baseball) 4:30 pm
Weston at Union Parish (Baseball) 5:30 pm

Friday, March 27th

JHHS vs Simsboro (Softball) 5:00 pm
JHHS vs Lincoln Prep (Baseball) 5:00 pm
Quitman at Red River (Baseball) 5:30 pm
Weston vs St. Frederick (Baseball) 6:00 pm

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Jonesboro, Louisiana — Mayor J. Spike Harris proudly announces the launch of the Jonesboro Municipal Leadership Academy, an innovative leadership development initiative designed to prepare and empower current and future leaders within the Town of Jonesboro.

The Academy will offer a unique in-person and online training experience, providing participants with direct access to practical knowledge, real-world municipal operations, and leadership principles essential for effective governance.

This program is designed to ensure that all participants—whether current staff, emerging leaders, or engaged citizens—gain a clear, unified understanding of how the town operates and how leadership decisions affect the community.

The Jonesboro Municipal Leadership Academy will focus on key areas, including municipal structure, financial accountability, infrastructure planning, public safety operations, and strategic leadership.

By aligning participants around a shared vision and a consistent framework, the program aims to strengthen organizational effectiveness and build a pipeline of informed, capable leaders prepared to serve the town at the highest level.

“This Academy is about building the future of Jonesboro from within,” said Mayor Harris. “We are creating an opportunity for individuals to learn, grow, and lead with clarity, purpose, and a unified vision for how our town should operate.”

The initiative reflects the Town’s ongoing commitment to transparency, education, and long-term sustainability by investing in people and leadership development. Through this program, Jonesboro continues to position itself as a forward-thinking municipality focused on progress, accountability, and community engagement.

Additional details regarding enrollment, program schedules, and participation opportunities will be announced soon.

For more information, please visit jonesborola.net or contact Town Hall at (318) 259-5025.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Contact:

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

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

Paid for by Friends of Colby L. Bowman

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The Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office announces that multiple local citizens have reported being targeted with a Notice of Default scam document that looks like it is generated by the State of Louisiana and the Municipal Courts of New Orleans. (shown below)

Sheriff Brent Barnett provides red flags for you to look out for if you receive a similar document such as:

• Aggressive urgency language
Phrases like “final and urgent warning,” “immediate action required,” and threats of severe consequences are classic scam tactics to pressure you.
• QR code for payment/action
Courts do NOT require you to scan a QR code to resolve a legal matter. That’s a major red flag.
• Generic formatting / unofficial style
Real court notices typically:
Come via mail with official envelopes
Include clear clerk contact info and case verification instructions
Do not look like promotional flyers
• Missing key verification details
No official docket lookup instructions
No clear way to verify the case online through a known government site
Case number format looks suspicious/unverified
• Overly broad violations
“Parking violation / toll violation” lumped together is vague and unusual for a formal court notice.
• Signature looks printed/fake
“Paul López” appears stylized and not like a real signed court document.
• Date coincidence
Issued March 2 with a hearing March 23 — very short timeline for a formal court notice, especially without certified delivery.
• Phone number is incorrect.
(504) 656-8500 is not the real phone number to Municipal Court of New Orleans
(504) 658-8500 is the actual phone number to the Municipal Court of New Orleans; one number was changed.

 What you should do/don’t do

• Do NOT scan the QR code
• Do NOT send any money
• Do not click links or call numbers listed on that document

How to verify safely:
• Go directly to the official New Orleans Municipal Court website (type it yourself, don’t use links)
• Call the court using a trusted number from their official site
• Look up your case using your name or real citation number

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Quitman High School celebrated “Senior Night” by whipping Weston 9-2 in a District 1B matchup. With the victory, the Lady Wolverines surged to a 2-0 record in 1B play and improved to 11-6 overall. Weston fell to 2-1 and 6-11.

The festive evening began with Maggie Guyotte being honored as the only Quitman senior, it was “young guns” Hallie Kate Pullig (2B, 2 RS, RBI), Kinsley Ponder (3B, RS), Brenna Lamkin (HR, 3 RBI, 2 RS) and Zoee Williams (RBI) that did the most damage with two hits apiece. Anna Claire Leach ( 2 RS, RBI) got a hit and walked twice, while Briley Bowers got a hit and scored a run. Avery Watson also crossed home plate and coaxed a walk and Amelia Staggs hit a single.

Carlynn Waters (RS), Carly Jo Griffin (RS), Davynee Bearden, and Tessa Reeves (RBI) managed just four hits off the combination of Guyotte, Staggs, and Lamkin, who was particularly impressive by allowing no hits and no runs while striking out 7 in her three innings of work.to pick up the win. 

Jena 7 Quitman 1 (Monday): Maggie Guyotte gave Quitman a quick 1-0 lead with a one-out home run, one of only two Lady Wolverine hits in the contest, in the top of the first, but a five-run uprising by the home-standing Lady Giants was the difference in the contest. Hallie Kate Perry got the other Wolverines hit. Jena managed only five hits on the night but fur wett

JHHS Girls fall to Gibsland-Coleman

Jonesboro-Hodge allowed Gibsland -Coleman to score 6 in the first inning and 7 more in the second to take a 15-4 win on Tuesday. Sa’Tavia Qualls led the Lady Tigers with 2 of the 4 hits given up by GC while Brooklyn Thomas and Haigen Fenn got a hit and scored a run each. Mexis Waller 

Weston 9, Quitman 5: A five-run sixth inning broke open a close game that was tied at 4-4 and improved the Wolves to 3-0 in District 1B play and 14-9 overall. Quitman fell to 2-1 and 13-8. Drew Browning knocked in three runs, and Easton Borders scored two as each hit a double. Jase Borders (RS RBI) smashed a triple and drew a pair of walks. Ty Henderson (2 RS, RBI) got on base in each of his 4 at bats that included a pair of hits. Kyptin Caskey and Remy Kennard also pitched in with a single each. Kace West and Zach Smudricks each hit a double as part of their two hits on the day to lead Quitman, and Cail King went 3/4 with 2 RBI and a run scored. Maddox Duck and Hudson Pullig got a hit as well.

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