The Jackson Parish Chapter of the Grambling University National Alumni Association will meet on Tuesday, July 7th, at 5:30 pm at Travelers’ Rest Baptist Church, located at 409 Congo Street in Jonesboro, LA. Local chapter President James E. Bradford encourages all existing and prospective members to attend.
Four Jackson Parish School District high school students have earned their AWS Level 2 Advanced Welding Certification through the Fast Forward Summer Program at Jonesboro-Hodge High School. Congratulations go to Alivia Anderson, Taraje’ Wiley, Santiago Zuniga, and Anthony Paggett, Jr.
“Their dedication, perseverance, and commitment to building valuable workforce skills have led to this outstanding accomplishment. Congratulations to each of these students on this well-deserved achievement! We are excited to see where their skills and determination take them as they continue to build bright futures.” – Jackson Parish School District
The 2026-27 varsity cheer team from Weston High School recently participated in the Universal Cheerleaders Association (UCA) at Louisiana Tech University, which was held June 22-25, bringing home several top awards, including the coveted Leadership Award. WHS also won 2nd place in Cheer and 3rd place in Camp Routine.
“These girls represented our school with heart, character, and leadership all week long, and I couldn’t be prouder, said WHS Cheer Coaches Alyssa Hogue and Shayla Heard. “The awards are exciting, but the way this team encouraged others, worked together, and represented Weston is what means the most!”
Ten residents of Forest Haven Nursing Home and Rehabilitation Center in Jonesboro, LA celebrated birthdays in June. The administration and staff wish helped make the special day memorable by presenting each an honorary birthday cake. Happy Birthday wishes go to the following:
Wanda Antley, 69
Michael Bradford, 66
Stamelia Cobbs, 57
Polly Griffith, 86
Delores Hill, 82
Marilyn Knauf, 71
Alice Morris, 83
Mary Roden, 86
Joel Smith, 62
Marilyn Treadway, 90
Happy Birthday
Slideshow of those celebrating birthdays in June
To view, click on the arrows to the left and right
With Magical Entertainment, Willy T’s Sno-Cones, and other activities in store, the Summer Reading Program at the Jackson Parish Library will come to an end on Thursday, July 9th, after five very entertaining and educational weeks at both the Jonesboro and Chatham branches.
The week will begin with the Jonesboro Police Department making a guest appearance on Monday, July 6th, first at the Jonesboro Branch at 10:00 am and then at the Chatham Branch at 2:00 pm. On Tuesday, July 7th, it is “Build Your Own Bouquet” time as Alway’s Eva’s Flowers owner Terri Jones will be at the Chatham Branch at 2:00 pm to show participants how to make beautiful flower arrangements. On Wednesday, July 8th, Shannan Chevalier of LSU AgCenter will be at the Jonesboro Branch at 10:00 am and in Chatham at 2:00 pm, followed by the climactic ending on Thursday.
Monday, July 6
Tuesday, July 7
One of the most enjoyable times of the year for members of the various 4-H clubs across Jackson Parish came to an end on Thursday, July 2nd, when the group of 36 campers and counselors returned home from a very entertaining and educational three days at summer camp held at the Grant Walker 4-H Educational Center in Pollock, LA.
During their visit to the camp located deep in the heart of Kisatchie National Forest, participants enjoyed a tremendous amount of recreation time, experienced the beauty of nature, received educational opportunities, made new friends from across the state, and even took part in a talent show.
“Hot days and memories made. Days at Camp Grant Walker are always worth it,” said Jackson Parish 4-H Director Kristi Bourgeois. “The campers gained knowledge, became independent, and loved camp life!
About Grant Walker 4-H Educational Center
Since 1922, Grant Walker 4-H Educational Center has been a place where Louisiana youth discover new interests, build lifelong friendships, and gain the confidence to lead. What began with a group of young campers gathering beneath the towering pines of Kisatchie National Forest has grown into a treasured tradition that has impacted generations across our state.
The camp’s story started on land owned by local businessman Rufus Walker, who later donated the property to the state in 1936. His generosity paved the way for permanent improvements, and by 1938, the Works Progress Administration began constructing many of the iconic buildings that still stand today, including the arts and crafts building, educational building, Greek theatre, main office, and dance pavilion.
Over the decades, Grant Walker evolved to meet the needs of Louisiana’s youth. New bunkhouses, recreational facilities, and expanded programming helped strengthen the camp experience while maintaining the values that have always been at its heart. Through hands-on learning, outdoor adventure, teamwork, and leadership opportunities, campers have developed skills that extend far beyond their time at camp.
Former campers often share stories of independence, personal growth, and friendships formed during their summers at Grant Walker. Those experiences continue today, as more than 3,500 youth attend camp each summer, creating memories and discovering their potential through the Louisiana 4-H program.
For more than 100 years, Grant Walker has been more than just a summer camp—it has been a place where confidence is built, leaders are developed, and traditions are passed from one generation to the next. As we reflect on this remarkable history, we celebrate the countless campers, counselors, volunteers, and staff who have helped shape the legacy of Grant Walker 4-H Educational Center.
(Last week, a nearby lightning bolt fried the modem on my computer. I had it replaced, but it brought to mind an article I had written years ago about my introduction to computers. It seems fitting today to share that story.)
HORROR TALES OF MODEMS, MOUSES AND DOWNLOADS
As much as I depend on my computer, the thing sometimes nearly scares me to death. Recently, it put the hoo-doo on me.
When I was preparing to retire from my 30-year career as a social worker, I already knew how I’d be spending my time after retirement. I’d update my status as an outdoor writer from part-time to full-time.
I was faced with a big decision. Should I continue to write articles in long hand, scratching out and editing before typing the final product on my typewriter, or would I take the plunge into the computer world?
My journalist friend, the late Wiley Hilburn, occasionally wrote about his mortal fear of computers. If Wiley could, week after week, crank out those incredible columns of his on an old standard clunker, maybe I should stick with what had worked to this point for me.
I’d attend a writer’s conference, and they’d talk about desktop publishing and Windows and Page Makers and Mac, and somebody would ask me which I used. I’d shuffle my feet, cough nervously, and mumble something about not having made up my mind just yet. I felt like I was in the Indy 500 driving a Studebaker. I was behind the times, and I knew it, but didn’t want to admit I didn’t know diddly squat about computers.
I’d stand in front of the computer store, watching until all the salesmen were busy before going in. Cautiously circling a model on display, I would survey the square eye as if it were a caged tiger at the zoo and I didn’t want to venture too close. I wouldn’t see the salesman walking up behind me, and I’d jump as if nudged with a cattle prod when he, all preppy and computer-savvy, would ask if I needed help.
“Just looking”, I’d say.
I had already learned to get out of there quickly before he started pointing out the features on the slick model before me and making me feel like the ultimate doofus as he described the serial ports, the mouse, and the modem.
I wouldn’t see the salesman walking up behind me, and I’d jump as if nudged with a cattle prod when he, all preppy and computer-savvy, would ask if I needed help. One day, feeling particularly bold, I stayed for the whole sales pitch although I didn’t have a clue as to what he was talking about. He finished and looked at me, anticipating a question about what server I should select.
I left him slack-jawed when I asked, “How do you turn it on?”
He flipped a switch, and there were beeps and chirps, and the glass eye magically came to life. The salesman began his pitch again and once more, I stopped him in his tracks with “How do you type on it?”
He was finally getting the picture, I surmised, that he was dealing with a real goober. I sat down tentatively in front of the screen and typed out, “Now is the tome for ale doog men….”
He showed me how to correct my mistakes and edit what I had written, how to store it, how to bring it back to the screen, and how to print what I had written. Finally, the thing began making sense, and I gradually lost my fear of damaging the machine by simply typing on it or it nuking me. I bought it, took it home, and a whole new world opened for me. Then why do computers still give me the willies sometimes?
I had almost completed my article for the week, a warm whimsical piece on the approach of fall and hunting seasons. Without warning, we lost power, and my story was dumped into a black hole, I assumed gone forever. When the power came back on, try as I might, I couldn’t come up with those poignant phrases that had so easily rolled off my finger tips moments before.
So there I sat, pen and yellow tablet in hand, writing with the same tools I used twenty years ago about how modern technology had done a number on me.
I’m thinking that maybe Wiley could have been on to something here.
FISHING REPORT
CANEY LAKE – Bass are around the grass early and hitting topwaters. Later they’re around deep drops and channels. Soft plastics and cranks baits are working best. Crappie are around the deeper tops and are hitting jigs and shiners. Bream are slow to fair. For information contact Caney Lake Landing at 259-6649, Hooks Marina at 249-2347, Terzia Tackle at 278-4498 or the Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707.
BUSSEY BRAKE – Crappie are on the flats and are fair on shiners or jigs. Some big bass are being caught early on topwaters and later by flipping the trees and lily pads with oversized soft plastics. The bream bite has slowed with fair catches made. For latest information, contact the Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707.
OUACHITA RIVER – Bass fishing is best up the river where there is more clear water. Crank baits and soft plastics are picking up some. Crappie are fair in the river lakes. For latest information, contact the Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707.
LAKE D’ARBONNE – Bass are best on topwaters early and crank baits and soft plastics later on secondary points. Crappie are in their summer patterns in deep water in the channel and channel edges and hitting jigs and shiners. The bream have slowed now that the water and air temperature has warmed. Lots of catfish are being caught on red wigglers and night crawlers just off the banks. For latest information, call Anderson Sport Center at 368-9669 or Honey Hole Tackle Shop at 323-8707.
LAKE CLAIBORNE – Crappie are around deep brush with jigs and shiners working best. Bass are in the shallows early hitting topwaters and in deeper water around around the channel edges later. Soft plastics and crank baits are picking up some. Night fishing is best now that the weather is turning hot. Bream are slow. For latest information, call Kel’s Cove at 927-2264 or Terzia Tackle at 278-4498.
LAKE YUCATAN – The water level is rising and should start falling around July 5. Catfish are being caught on trotlines and buffalo caught in nets. Crappie and bass have not started to hit but barfish are starting to bite. For info call Surplus City Landing at 318/467-2259.
Descartes said, “I think, therefore I am.”
Doug said, “I drive, therefore I am,” and honestly, I’m starting to trust my version more.
I spend so many hours with my body attached to a car that I’m basically a mobile Methodist. I know I 20 like the back of my hand—every bump, every dip, every spot where my cell signal disappears as if it’s entering the Witness Protection Program. I know where law enforcement hides, waiting to catch those who treat the speed limit as a suggestion from a friend rather than a command from the state. I know exactly how far I can push the fuel light before I’m praying in tongues at the next exit. If you see me on the Interstate, give me a wave. I’ll wave back. I’m friendly like that.
Driving entertains me. I read bumper stickers like they’re sacred texts. If you see me tailgating, don’t worry—I’m not being aggressive; I’m just trying to discern whether your “Coexist” sticker is faded or ironic. And I’ve developed a spiritual gift: I can tell when someone is talking on the phone while driving. They always slow down. Always. It’s like the car senses the conversation and decides to meditate.
I was headed to Bossier City when the nice truck in front of me decided it was time for a mid-journey spa treatment. He hit his windshield washer at 70 mph. At my following distance, his washer fluid became my washer fluid. A surprise baptism by Rain X. I just smiled and thanked God for the improvisational rain shower. Louisiana weather is unpredictable, but apparently so are Louisiana drivers.
Now here’s where the sermon sneaks in.
My actions can change your attitude, and your attitude interprets my actions. That’s the whole ballgame.
I could’ve gotten mad. I could’ve imagined he did it on purpose. I could’ve turned on my wipers and smeared my windshield into a Monet painting. Or I could interpret it factually: I was following too closely behind a man with a dirty windshield who needed to see better. Or I could interpret it spiritually: God’s grace falls on the just, the unjust, and the guy behind the truck who wasn’t expecting a windshield blessing.
We don’t live in a vacuum. Our actions splash onto the people behind us—sometimes literally. That’s why Scripture tells us to be careful how we walk. We don’t want to trip someone else up. But the other side is just as important: I’m not responsible for what you do to me, but I am responsible for what I let your actions do inside me.
The world is small. The road is shared. And whether we like it or not, we’re all windshield washers for somebody.
So drive kindly. Live kindly. And if you must baptize the car behind you, at least use the good fluid.
Vacation Bible School is scheduled to begin at many churches in Jackson Parish. A schedule and themes of Vacation Bible Schools at area churches are shown below.
Weston Baptist Church
112 Weston Church Road
Jonesboro, LA
Date: July 7-10
Time: 5:30 – 8:30 pm
Theme: Illumination Station – Sharing a light on who Jesus really is
Jonesboro Assembly of God
1490 South Hudson Avenue
Jonesboro, LA
Date: July 13-17
Time: 5:30 – 8:00 pm
Theme: Illumination Station
McDonald Memorial Baptist Church
1676 Hwy 4
Jonesboro, LA
Date: July 13-17
Time: 5:30 – 8:00 pm
Theme: Magnified
Beech Springs Baptist Church
3942 Beech Springs Rd
Quitman, LA
Date: July 13-17
Time: 6:00 – 8:30 pm
Theme: Illumination Station
First Baptist Chatham
12118 Hwy 4
Chatham, LA
Date: July 13-17
Time: 5:30 – 8:30 pm
Theme: Illumination Station
Hodge Baptist Church
1100 South Holly Street
Hodge, LA
Date: July 20-24
Time: 8:00 am – 12:00 pm
Theme: Illumination Station
Grace Community Church
814 Pershing Hwy
Jonesboro, LA
Date: July 24-25
Time: 6:00 – 8:30 pm
Theme: Radical Kids VBS: God’s Masterpiece
To have Public / Legal Notices, Business Services, Job Opportunities, Items for sale, and Wanted to Buy, Items published – send an email to: jpjjacksonla@gmail.com or call 318-480-1206. Possible costs are dependent on the content.
PUBLIC NOTICE
SOBRIETY & HIGHWAY SAFETY CHECKPOINT
SHERIFF’S SALE
PARISH OF JACKSON
STATE OF LOUISIANA
21ST MORTGAGE CORPORATION
#38067
JESSE RAY JONES AND DOROTHY T. CROUSE
By virtue of a Writ of Seizure and Sale issued out of the Honorable Second Judicial District Court, Parish of Jackson, State of Louisiana, and to me directed, I have seized and taken into my possession and will offer for sale for cash at JACKSON PARISH SHERIFF’S OFFICE, Jonesboro, Louisiana, on Wednesday, the 8th day of July, 2026, between the hours governing judicial sales, the following property to wit:
2021 JESSUP 16 X 76 MOBILE HOME BEARING SERIAL NUMBER JHW03355TX21
Seized as the property of the above-named defendant and will be sold to satisfy said Writ and all cost, sale to be made for cash WITHOUT benefit of appraisal.
BRENT BARNETT, SHERIFFEX-OFFICIO, AUCTIONEER
July 1, 2026
SHERIFF’S SALE
PARISH OF JACKSON
STATE OF LOUISIANA
VANDERBILT MORTGAGE AND FINANCE, INC
#38157
MARLON M. JARRELL, JR., MARLON JARRELL, JR., MARLON JARRELL
By virtue of a Writ of Seizure and Sale issued out of the Honorable Second Judicial District Court, Parish of Jackson, State of Louisiana, and to me directed, I have seized and taken into my possession and will offer for sale for cash at JACKSON PARISH SHERIFF’S OFFICE, Jonesboro, Louisiana, on Wednesday, the 5th day of August, 2026, between the hours governing judicial sales, the following property to wit:
2006 CMH LOCEL MOBILE HOME BEARING SEARING NUMBER CS2008343TNAB, IMMOBILIZED ONTO AND INCLUDING THE FOLLOWING DESCRIBED PROPERTY: LOT 2, 3, 4, & 5 OF BLOCK 1 OF EROS, LOUISIANA, AS SHOWN BY ORIGINAL PLAT AND SURVEY OF SAID TOWN OF EROS, NOW ON FILE AND OF RECORD IN THE RECORDER’S OFFICE OF JACKSON PARISH, LOUISIANA, TOGETHER WITH ALL IMPROVEMENTS THEREON AND APPURTENANCES THEREUNTO BELONGING, SITUATED IN EROS, JACKSON PARISH, LOUISIANA.
Seized as the property of the above-named defendant and will be sold to satisfy said Writ and all cost, sale to be made for cash WITH benefit of appraisal.
BRENT BARNETT, SHERIFF
EX-OFFICIO, AUCTIONEER
June 24, 2026
July 29, 2026
SHERIFF’S SALE
PARISH OF JACKSON
STATE OF LOUISIANA
SELENE FINANCE, LP
#38172
SKYLOR HOUSE, SKYLOR STEPHEN HOUSE, WHITNEY HOUSE, WHITNEY MORGAN HOUSE
By virtue of a Writ of Seizure and Sale issued out of the Honorable Second Judicial District Court, Parish of Jackson, State of Louisiana, and to me directed, I have seized and taken into my possession and will offer for sale for cash at JACKSON PARISH SHERIFF’S OFFICE, Jonesboro, Louisiana, on Wednesday, the 12th day of August, 2026, between the hours governing judicial sales, the following property to wit:
A certain tract of land being situated in the Southeast quarter of the Southeast quarter of Section 19, and in the Southwest quarter of the Southwest quarter of Section 20, Township 15 North, Range 1 West, Land District North of Red River, Jackson Parish, Louisiana, and being more particularly described as follows:
Commence at a 1 1/2” pipe found marking the Southeast corner of Section 19, township 15 North, Range 1 West, Land District North of Red River, Jackson Parish, Louisiana, for the POINT OF BEGINNING; thence proceed North 89 degrees 46 minutes 10 seconds West along the South line of the Southeast quarter of the Southeast quarter of said section 19, a distance of 1,336.51 feet to a P.K. Nail set in Sandy Ridge Road and marking the Southwest corner of the Southeast quarter of the Southeast quarter of said Section 19; thence proceed North 00 degrees 22 minutes 13 seconds West along the West line of the Southeast quarter of the Southeast quarter of said Section 19, a distance of 4.97 feet to the center of said Sandy Ridge Road; thence proceed the following courses along the center of Sandy Ridge Road: North 42 degrees 47 minutes 41 seconds East, a distance of 16.08 feet; North 53 degrees 03 minutes 48 seconds East, a distance of 56.17 feet; North 55 degrees 00 minutes 24 seconds East, a distance of 60.56 feet; North 55 degrees 26 minutes 45 seconds East, a distance of 119.18 feet; North 54 degrees 13 minutes 51 seconds East, a distance of 118.63 feet; North 51 degrees 35 minutes 36 seconds East, a distance of 55.43 feet; North 48 degrees 58 minutes 10 seconds East, a distance of 56.57 feet; North 45 degrees 07 minutes 08 seconds East, a distance of 56.26 feet; North 39 degrees 36 minutes 52 seconds East, a distance of 56.25 feet; North 34 degrees 38 minutes 27 seconds East, a distance of 54.39 feet; North 32 degrees 36 minutes 33 seconds East, a distance of 56.44 feet; North 30 degrees 36 minutes 51 seconds East, a distance of 49.18 feet; North 26 degrees 31 minutes 42 seconds East, a distance of 49.91 feet; North 20 degrees 13 minutes 21 seconds East, a distance of 52.69 feet; North 12 degrees 10 minutes 41 seconds East, a distance of 51.47 feet; North 07 degrees 54 minutes 35 seconds East, a distance of 49.51 feet; thence leaving said Sandy Ridge Road, proceed South 81 degrees 40 minutes 31 seconds East, a distance of 731.75 feet to a 3/4 inch iron pipe found on the East line of the Southeast quarter of the southeast quarter of said Section 19; thence proceed South 89 degrees 51 minutes 40 seconds East, distance of 398.20 feet to a set 5/8 inch rebar; thence proceed South 00 degrees 15 minutes 02 seconds East, a distance of 604.29 feet to a 5/8 inch rebar set on the South line of the Southwest quarter of the Southwest quarter of Section 20, Township 15 North, Range 1 West, Land District North of Red River, Jackson Parish, Louisiana; thence proceed North 89 degrees 51 minutes 40 seconds West along the South line of the Southwest quarter of the Southwest quarter of said Section 20, a distance of 394.59 feet to the POINT OF BEGINNING, containing 20.000 Acres, more or less, and being subject to the right-of-way of Sandy Ridge Road and being further subject to all other rights of way, easements and servitudes of record and/or use. Together with all buildings and improvements located thereon (“Property”).
Seized as the property of the above-named defendant and will be sold to satisfy said Writ and all cost, sale to be made for cash WITHOUT benefit of appraisal.
BRENT BARNETT, SHERIFFEX-OFFICIO, AUCTIONEER
July 1, 2026
August 5, 2026
Jackson Parish Ambulance Service District – This is more than a job, it is a Calling! From the developing Pre-Hospital Blood administration program to Dialysis transports, from Community Paramedicine to the East Coast of the United States for Disaster Response. We are forward-thinking and seek to hire the best Paramedics to accomplish our mission of serving Jackson Parish and being a blessing to our neighbors.
Part-Time and Full-Time positions available for all levels of experience (Tuition Reimbursement available with an Employment agreement for Full-Time status) Part-Time EMT and AEMT positions are also available.
For more information, call the JPASD Office at 318-259-2877 or by Fax: 318-259-2099 or go to: www.jpasd.com
Mail/Email applications to:
Attn: Aaron Johnson
115 Watts St.
Jonesboro, LA, 71251
jacksonparishambulance@gmail.com
BUSINESS SERVICES
FOR RENT
Inflatable Slide available for rent. Cost is $150.00 for 24 hours. Free delivery. To learn more or to make a reservation, call (318) 265-0027.
Frederick Ellis
August 6, 1972 – June 24, 2026
Mr. Frederick Ellis gained his heavenly wings on June 24th, 2026 at the age of 53 years old. After friends and family visited in the Paradise Funeral Home Chapel in Jonesboro, LA on Monday, June 29th, a graveside service was held at St. Paul Cemetery in Bienville, LA.
(Jonesboro Police Department Report) – On June 20, 2026, at approximately 8:30 a.m., the Jonesboro Police Department responded to Sabine Bank on Highway 167 in Jonesboro in reference to a reported burglary.
Upon arrival, officers observed multiple signs of forced entry, including a broken window and the bank’s interior in disarray. Officers immediately secured the scene and launched a thorough investigation.
As a result of the investigation, detectives were able to identify a suspect.
Several days later, the same suspect was located at another local bank where they were allegedly attempting to break into that facility as well. Officers responded immediately and took the suspect into custody without incident.
This case highlights the importance of a thorough investigation, cooperation between this agency and concerned citizens. The Jonesboro Police Department remains committed to holding those who commit crimes accountable while ensuring the safety of our residents and local businesses.
Because this case is now part of the judicial process, no further details will be released at this time.
The Jackson Parish Police Jury announces that, beginning on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, St. Peters Road will be closed for a culvert repair. Located approximately 0.4 miles from Longstraw Road, the repair is required because the culvert under the road has washed out, creating a safety hazard. This area will remain closed until further notice.
St. Peters Road (or Saint Peters Road) in Jackson Parish is located in the northeastern rural sector of the parish, near the Choudrant and Quitman areas. It runs near the intersection of Longstraw Road and extends through a rural corridor that connects to the neighboring Lincoln Parish area.
The Jackson Parish Police Jury will update the public when the road is reopened and express thanks to residents for their patience and understanding during the repair process.
The Greater North Louisiana Community Development Corporation (GNLCDC) announces that its annual fan giveaway will take place from 9:00 – 11:00 am on Wednesday, July 1st at 100 Jimmie Davis Blvd. in Jonesboro, LA. Targeting Seniors and those with health challenges, come pick up a free fan on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last to help you get through this super hot summer weather.
Local businesses and individuals supporting community needs are: Barksdale Federal Credit Union, Hodge Bank, Jackson Parish Clerk of Court Rachel Shively, Protective Insurance Company, Jackson Parish Sheriff Brent Barnett, Jonesboro Mayor J. “Spike” Harris, Jackson Parish Tax Assessor Glen Kirkland, Joe Moore Lawn Service LLC, P-Deezy Fresh Cuts, Mitchell’s Pharmacy, Leslie Thompson, Jonesboro Assistant Police Chief Warren Johnson, Pastor Austin Ballott, and Larry Hicks
GNLCDC “Making a Difference”
To the Citizens of Jackson Parish,
Thank you!
I am truly humbled and honored by the confidence you have placed in me by electing me to serve as your Sheriff. This victory is not mine alone. It belongs to every volunteer who gave their time, every supporter who offered encouragement, every family member who sacrificed alongside us, and every citizen who participated in this election.
I want to sincerely thank everyone who supported our campaign, as well as those who supported another candidate. Campaigns come to an end, but our responsibility to Jackson Parish continues. I will be the Sheriff for every citizen of this parish, and I am committed to earning and keeping your trust each and every day.
Throughout this campaign, I spoke often about dependable leadership, professionalism, transparency, and service. Those were not simply campaign promises; they are the principles that will guide every decision I make as your Sheriff. I remain committed to leading with integrity, treating every person with fairness, dignity, and respect, supporting the dedicated men and women of the Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office, and being a faithful steward of the trust you have placed in me.
I want to express my sincere appreciation to the deputies and employees of the Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office. Your dedication, professionalism, and commitment to serving others are what make this office strong. I look forward to serving alongside you as we continue building an organization that reflects the highest standards of public service.
To my family, thank you for your love, encouragement, and sacrifice throughout this journey. I could not have done this without you. I am also grateful to my church family, my friends, and the many people who lifted us up with their prayers, support, and encouragement along the way.
Above all, I thank God for His grace, His guidance, and His many blessings. I pray for the wisdom to lead with humility, the courage to make difficult decisions with integrity, and the strength to faithfully serve the people of Jackson Parish.
Now the work begins. Together, we will continue to strengthen public safety, support those who serve, build trust with our communities, and work to ensure that the Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office remains an organization our citizens can be proud of.
Thank you again for your confidence, your support, and the opportunity to serve as your Sheriff. I will never take that responsibility for granted, and I will work every day to earn the trust you have placed in me.
Brent D. Barnett
Sheriff, Jackson Parish
One Parish. One Team.
Super Bee Speedway, located at 14325 Hwy 4 in Chatham, LA, invites you to make plans to celebrate Independence Day by attending their 4th of July Spectacular. Included will be a HUGE FIREWORK SHOW during Opening Ceremonies, a KIDS BIKE RACE where the Top 10 finishers will receive a prize and the opportunity to take part in the Best Dressed 4th of July Contest, with the winner receiving 5 FREE General Admission Tickets!
Featured will be a Limited Modifieds race with the winner receiving a $2,500.00 first prize, compliments of sponsor Versatile Land Service, LLC, and payouts all the way through 24th place. ALL Active Military and Veterans get in FREE as our way of saying thank you for your service.
The Jonesboro Police Department was proud to participate in a multi-agency traffic safety enforcement operation alongside the Louisiana State Police and the West Monroe Police Department. This operation reflects the value of law enforcement agencies working together toward one common purpose: protecting the traveling public and improving roadway safety.
During the operation:
The Jonesboro Police Department was represented by our Patrol Supervisor, Lieutenant Davis. We extend our sincere appreciation to Lt. Davis for his leadership, professionalism, and dedication to serving both our department and the citizens of Jonesboro.
We also thank the Louisiana State Police and the West Monroe Police Department for their partnership and commitment to public safety. When agencies work together, share resources, and support one another, our communities benefit. Cooperation across jurisdictions strengthens enforcement efforts, enhances officer safety, and helps ensure that everyone arrives home safely.
Registration is now being taken to participate in the 9th annual Caney Lake Flotilla. Join Grand Marshals Benson and Cherie Bagwell in the always enjoyable boat parade in celebration of the 4th of July holiday. A map of the proposed course the flotilla will take is shown below. To register, click here, or go to Caney Lake Community Foundation Facebook page.
The annual Flotilla is part of the two day Fourth of July celebration on Caney Lake with a fireworks display taking place at 9:00 pm on Friday, July 3rd followed by the Flotilla beginning at 10:00 am on Saturday, July 4th.
Caney Lake Flotilla Map
The quality of coaching and the talent of the young girls and boys on the Diamond Youth Baseball and Softball All-Star teams from Jackson Parish were on full display this past week. Despite fielding teams with the smallest population bases in every age category, the local youth made a remarkable showing in the District 4 competition with three of the four teams (6U, 10U, 12U) competing in softball and three of the six (9U, 10U, 11U) baseball teams qualifying for the upcoming state tournaments that will be played July 2-5 at various locations, including the 10U Northern Regional State Tournament hosted by the Jackson Parish Recreation Department Sports Complex.
Highlighting the great success of the local teams was the Jackson Parish 10U Softball All-Star team, which took first place in the District 4 tournament by winning all four of their games. Also to be commended is the Jackson Parish 9U Baseball All-Star team, which won three straight games of round-robin play after losing the tournament opener to finish as District 4 runner-up, and the Jackson Parish 12U Softball All-Star team, which won two and lost two in double-elimination play to come in 3rd place in the District tournament and earn qualification to state.
2026 State Tournament Qualifiers
Jackson Parish 12U Softball All-Stars
Manager: Kirsten Savage
Coaches: Ronny Savage and Dustin Siddon
Team Members: Ava Cutright, Emma Gray, Brelaina Hall, Delilah Hudson, Autumn Kohler, Charley Linton, Breezy Marker, Aubrie Maxwell, Ryleigh McCormick, Elliot Savage, Ella Siddon, and Lizzie Sullivan.|
District Tournament Summary: Finished with a 2-2 record in the District 4 Tournament. Beat Benton 10-6, lost to Sabine 14-7, beat Benton again 9-8, lost to Sabine again11-8 to finish in third place in the double-elimination competition.
State Tournament Information: Qualified for the Diamond Youth Softball state tournament to be played in Jefferson Parish, July 2-5. Jackson Parish begins with Pool Two play at 5:00 pm on Thursday, July 2nd, which consists of Jackson Parish, Jefferson Parish Recreation Department (JPRD) East, and West Monroe. Plays West Monroe at 10:00 am on Friday, July 3rd. All three teams will continue to play in the state tournament double-elimination bracket beginning on Friday, July 3rd, seeded by their pool-play finishes.
Jackson Parish 10U Softball All-Stars
Manager: Cheyenne Allen
Coaches: Kristen Allen and Bethany Greer
Team Members: Kylee-Ayn Allen, Malia Gunter, Lyla Hall, Kaylee Hammons, Caylee Mauthe, Ryleigh Puffer, Kadence Sampey, Natalie Sullivan, Mercedes Taylor, River Waggoner, Mez’Meri Walker, and Benleigh Whitman.
District Tournament Summary: Finished District 4 Tournament with an undefeated 4-0 record. Beat Sabine 5-1, Beat Minden 7-0, Beat West Monroe 1-0, Beat West Monroe again 4-3 to win the district title. State Tournament Information: One of ten teams to qualify for the double-elimination state tournament to be played in Buckeye, LA, on July 2-5. First game is against Tioga at 4:30 pm on field 3 on Thursday, July 2nd.
Jackson Parish 6U Softball All-Stars
Manager: Allison Johnson
Coaches: Odie Bradley, Jacob Johnson, and Zach Roberson
Team Members: Landry Atkins, Peyton Barnett, Skye Bradley, Avery Dodson, Lylah Johnston, Lucy Reed, Mellie Roberson, Josie Thrower, Emerysn Walker, StellaRae Whitman, Cienna Williams, and Amara Wilson
Team Summary: Finished with an 0-3 record in the District 4 Tournament. Lost 16-6 to Sabine, Lost 21-0 to West Monroe, Lost 15-0 to Minden.
State Tournament Information: All four teams from District 4 qualified for the ten-team state tournament play in Buckeye, LA, on July 2-5. Jackson Parish begins play against Tioga at 4:30 pm on Thursday, July 2nd in Pool C play. Continues to play in the state tournament double-elimination bracket, seeded by the pool-play finish.
Jackson Parish 11U Baseball All-Stars
Manager: Lance Seymore
Coaches: Railey Garrett, Dusty Burton
Team Members: Clay Burton, Charles Cooper, Oliver Garrett, Michael Gray, William Greer-Kelley, Sawyer Kelley, James Lewis, Cruz Nomey, Asher Norred, Andrew Seymore, Koplen Taylor, Grant Williams
District Tournament Summary: Did not participate in a District Tourney after receiving an automatic qualification bid to the State Tourney
State Tournament Information: One of eight teams to qualify for the double-elimination state tournament to be played July 2-5 in Bossier City, LA. Jackson Parish begins play at 6:30 pm on Field 9 against Sabine Parish.
Jackson Parish 10U Baseball All-Stars
Manager: Josh Jones
Coaches: Trevor Hall, Adam Pardue
Team Members: Taten Hall, Reece Johnson, Jeremiah Jones, Carson Knox, Cameron Pardue, Jess Potts, Isaac Sessions, Abram Thrower, Sutton Vail, Lyndon Walsworth, Austin West, Joedy Wiggins Jr.
District Tournament Summary: Did not participate in a District Tourney after receiving an automatic qualification bid to the State Tourney as host to the North Regional State Tournament.
State Tournament Information: One of eight teams to qualify for the double-elimination Northern Region State Tournament to be played at the Jackson Parish Recreation Department Sports Complex July 2-5. Jackson Parish begins Pool Play against Mamou at 7:00 pm Thursday, July 2nd on Field 4. The winner plays a second pool game at 11:00 am Friday, July 3rd on Field 4 while the loser plays a second pool game at 11:00 am Friday, July 3rd on Field 2. Tournament double-elimination bracket play begins on Friday evening, with seeding based on pool play results.
Jackson Parish 9U Baseball All-Stars
Manager: NIck Sampey
Coaches: Brent Carpenter, Darion Hudson
Team Members: Kaden Blewer, Cole Burton, Calop Carpenter, Davis Hudson, Rafe Lewter, Kase Mathews, Reed McMillan, Levi Norred, Brennon Otwell, Rowan Sampey, Anderson Smiley, Lucas Womack
District Tournament Summary: Finished District 4 Tournament with a 3-1 record to finish as Runner-Up in the round-robin-style tournament. Lost to Minden 22-2, Beat Ruston 14-0, Beat Union 13-9, Beat Shreveport 15-14.
State Tournament Information: One of 12 teams to qualify for the double-elimination state tournament to be played in Bossier City, LA on July 2-5. Begins play against Winnsboro at 2:30 pm on Thursday, July 2nd on Field 6.
A special invitation is being extended to all First Responders from Jackson Parish to take part AT NO CHARGE in the Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) course at Jackson Parish Ambulance Service District (JPASD) Training Center, located at 115 Watts Street in Jonesboro, that is scheduled for Monday, July 13th.
Anyone is welcome to register for this in-person, comprehensive EMT course, which will be held from 6:00 – 10:00 pm every Monday and Thursday for 15 weeks, providing the knowledge, skills, and hands-on training needed to begin a career in Emergency Medical Services.
Cost to attend is as follows:
FREE – Jackson Parish First Responders (With an approved letter from your Administration)
$400.00 – Outside Jackson Parish First Responders (With an approved letter from your Administration)
$400.00 – Jackson Parish Residents (Made possible through grant funding obtained by the JPASD)
$1400.00 – Residents from outside Jackson Parish
Space is limited, so to reserve a spot, please register now. For more information or to enroll, call (318) 259-2877. Approved letters by administrative officials should be emailed to jacksonparishambulance@gmail.com
The First Baptist Church in Jonesboro announces that, after preaching his last sermon on June 28th, Pastor Brian McAllister has stepped down from the pulpit following nine years of service to the local congregation. Pastor McAllister, his wife Melanie, and their four children are leaving after the beloved leader of the church accepted a similar position at First Baptist Church in Winnfield.
Pastor McAllister, who displayed a passion for carefully unpacking the truths of Scripture, came to First Baptist Church in Jonesboro after earning a Bachelor of Religious Education from Louisiana College in Pineville, LA, and a Master of Biblical Studies from Liberty University.
Jake Vail and Jaxon Cheatwood tremendously represented Quitman High School at the Student Angler Federation High School Bass Fishing World Championship on Cumberland Lake in Kentucky by finishing in 29th place out of 411 teams. The placement was the highest of any team from the state of Louisiana.
The pair, guided by boat captain Richie Vail, qualified by winning a Northeast Louisiana High School (NELAHS) Angler Tour event and finishing in the top ten year-end ranking. Making the remarkable achievement even more incredible was that the pair of QHS Freshmen were sitting in 129th place after a slow two days of fishing before making a huge rally on the third day, where they finished in a tie for third place out of 332 contestants in the second chance round that qualified them for a fourth day of fishing and propelled them to the eventual top 30 finish.
I am honored and humbled to announce my candidacy for District Judge, Division B, which represents Bienville, Claiborne, and Jackson parishes.
For more than 32 years, I have dedicated my career to the practice of law, public service, and the people of Jackson Parish and the Second Judicial District. Throughout that time, I have had the privilege of serving our community from multiple perspectives within the justice system, gaining valuable experience and a deep respect for the rule of law.
My professional experience includes:
Beyond my legal career, I am blessed to share my life with my wife, Teresa Culpepper Carroll, a lifelong resident of Jackson Parish. Together, we are proud parents of three children and grandparents of one grandchild. I am also honored to serve as a Deacon at First Baptist Church of Jonesboro and to have been involved in numerous civic and community organizations throughout the years.
If elected, I will bring to the bench a commitment to:
✅ Applying the law fairly and impartially as written
✅ Upholding the Constitution and the rule of law
✅ Protecting the rights of victims while ensuring due process for all
✅ Making decisions based on facts, evidence, and the law—not politics or outside influence
✅ Preserving the integrity, independence, and public trust of our courts
The people of our district deserve a judge who is experienced, fair, impartial, and committed to equal justice under the law.
I respectfully ask for your prayers, your support, and your vote as we work together to keep our courts strong, fair, and faithful to the principles of justice.
Christian. Conservative. Republican. Tough on Crime. Fair and Impartial.
Learn more at ClayCarrollForJudge.com