On June 29th, Jonesboro and Jackson Parish residents said goodbye to The Tattered Rose and hello to The Green House. The transition took place when Kelliann Blalock of Quitman purchased the gift shop, event room and light dining location featuring ice cream and sandwiches from former owner Janet Anderson.

“I’m so honored to be the new owner of the beloved Tattered Rose! This cozy, well-loved spot has already made its mark in the community, and I couldn’t be more excited to carry it forward into its next chapter. For now, everything you love — the food, the friendly atmosphere, and the hours — will stay just the same. My heart is to honor what’s already been built while slowly stepping in with care and gratitude.
Whether you’ve been coming here for years or you’re just now discovering us, I’m so excited to welcome you in and begin this journey.” – Kelliann Blalock 

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While the Jonesboro and Chatham branches of the Jackson Parish Library will be closed on Friday in celebration of the 4th of July holiday, prior to the break, patrons will be in for a special treat at both locations as Mitch the Magician will make an appearance. 

The entertainer will hold his first show at 2:00 pm on Wednesday, July 2nd at the Chatham Branch, followed by a pair of follow-up shows at the Jonesboro Branch on Thursday, July 3rd that will take place at 10:00 am and again at 2:00 pm. 

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As the sun set on a hot summer day on the 28th of June the Quitman High School baseball field was a cool place to be. With fans packing the stands and lined up along the fence on both baselines, the sounds of baseballs coming in contact with aluminum bats, leather mitts popping, and a good bit of smack talk echoed throughout as over 30 former players took part in the first annual QHS Alumni baseball game.

Three teams (Blue, Gold, White) of Quitman baseball alumni, with graduation years ranging from 2002 up to 2025, played a spirited 7-inning game that was formatted so that 2 teams played each inning with the third team sitting out on a rotational basis until the 7th, when all 3 teams had a chance to bat as well as play defense.

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The contest that was designed to raise money to help offset costs of the upcoming 2026 baseball season began with the Blue and Gold team taking the field. Bradley Koonce immediately brought back memories of his dominance as a QHS hurler back in 2019 by striking out the side for his “Gold” team. That set the stage for Cason Womack (2019) doing what he did so many times as a leadoff hitter for the Wolverines by reaching 1st on an error, advancing to 3rd base on a pair of gound ball outs and then scoring on a passed ball to give the Gold team an early advantage. 

The White team then took the field against the Blue with Joshua Smith (2021) striking out all three batters he faced. Dennis Robertson, from the class of 2002 and one of the elder statesmen in the contest, reached the hard way by taking a pitch from Logan Willis in the back but was gunned down by catcher Jake Potts (2025) attempting to steal.

Pitching stayed in the forefront as the contest moved to the third inning as Smith struck out two more and Koonce, who finished with 7 strikeouts in two innings K’d four in the frame, after Dakota Johnson (2012) reached first on a dropped third strike call. 

The fourth inning featured recently named Junior College All-American, Ty Simonelli (2022), taking the mound for the Blue team. Brandon Joyner (2011) of the Gold team opened by coaxing a walk but was thrown out attempting to advance on a passed ball by Logan Willis (2014). Noah Vail (2021) and Womack walked to load the bases, but Simonelli escaped the jam with a strikeout of Wade Shoemaker (2004). Pete Simonelli (2024) then took the hill to get the Blue team out in order, including getting big brother Ty on a soft liner to shortstop that evened the score for the brothers with each getting the other out.

That set the stage for the fifth inning that produced the first earned runs of the day. After Zach Duck (2012) retired the White team, John Raegan Hasley (2024) stroke a single and scored on a single by Potts. Zach Duck (2012) followed by knocking in Potts giving the Blue team their first two runs of the game. The 2024 LHSAA State Tourney Most Outstanding Player, Ian Tilley, then came on in relief to end the inning with the score being Blue 2, Gold 1, White 0.

The Gold team took a 3-2-0 lead in the sixth inning as Koonce tripled and scored and both Mason Miller (2020) and Logan Ponder (2024) had RBI’s. The Blue team threatened to tie when Riley Hayes (2018) and Ty Simonelli singled but Pete Simonelli, who finished with 6 K’s, struck out the side to end the threat. 

The White team made a late charge in the 7th inning when Dakota Johnson (2012) and Wade Williams (2014) opened with a walk and single before both scored on an errant pickoff throw. Smith and Tilley doubled and singled respectively then  gave the White team a 4-3-2 lead when they scored after Robertson reached base for he third time in the contest on an error. Luke Morgan, who currently plays for Louisiana Christian University, followed with a double off the wall in center field but Robertson was deemed out for missing third base to bring the at bat to a close. 

With the tiebreaker established as run differential, the Gold team would bat in the bottom third of the inning, needing only to score one run to win. Walks to Joyner, Pete Simonelli and Womack loaded the bases. After Hunter Alexander (2020), who had come on as a pinch runner for Joyner was thrown out at the plate attempting to steal home, Simonelli scored on a wild pitch to give the Gold team the victory. 

To view the contest in its entirety, click here or go to https://youtu.be/w4nllZGIEHw

On June 26th, many homes of the congregation at Sweetwater Baptist Church in Quitman were displaying beautiful fresh floral bouquets. That is because of the generosity of Sarah Beth Bates and owner Terry Liles Jones of Always Eva’s Flowers, located at 214 Jimmie Davis Blvd. in Jonesboro, who the day before, met with the ladies at the church, passed on their knowledge and expertise in floral design, and helped each make their bouquet. The result was an evening full of good fellowship and a room full of beautiful designs that all enjoyed making. 

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During what has become known as the Battle of France in World War II, German troops had surrounded more than 338,000 allied troops on the beaches and harbor of Dunkirk in northern France. The soldiers had retreated to the sea and could retreat no further. The Germans were preparing to slaughter them. British Prime Minister Winston Churchill considered this the greatest military defeat in centuries and struggled to find a solution. Time was of the essence. With each passing hour, the outcome looked more grim. At Churchill’s request, the British Navy requisitioned more than 850 “little ships” which consisted of family yachts, lifeboats, fishing vessels, sailing barges, fire boats, paddle steamers, river launches, and just about anything else that could float to help in the evacuation codenamed Operation Dynamo. Some of the boats were taken under protest. Others were taken without permission. In some cases, the boat owners were unaware that their boats were taken until the operation was over.
One boat owner, 66-year-old chicken farmer Charles Lightoller, refused to allow the Navy to take his 52-foot converted Admiralty steam pinnace called Sundowner. Charles, a retired sea captain himself who was twice awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for his bravery, declared that he would captain Sundowner himself. He insisted that his ship would be crewed by his oldest son, 33-year-old Robert Lightoller, and 18-year-old sea scout Gerald Ashcroft. Charles was no stranger to danger. He had survived the sinking of two ships during World War I, and rammed and sank a German U-boat, UB-110, with his destroyer HMS Garry. Charles’s ship was so badly damaged during the ramming that he had to steer it 160 miles to safety in reverse. The Royal Navy knew of his seamanship and agreed to his request. Captain Charles and his crew left the harbor at Ramsgate, England for Dunkirk.

Although Sundowner was licensed to carry just 21 passengers, Captain Charles loaded his ship with sailors. One survivor wrote a letter to Charles’s widow, Sylvia, after his death in 1952. He told her that he “looked over the stern while your husband stowed the soldiers below in every corner it was possible to stow one. Only your late husband’s knowledge of the Channel and his seamanship brought the boat right back into Ramsgate harbour.” For nine days in May and June 1940, hundreds of “little ships” including Charle’s Sundowner, evacuated more than 338,000 stranded allied soldiers from the beaches and harbor of Dunkirk, France.

Charles, the captain of the little ship who saved 139 lives during the evacuation of Dunkirk, is mostly remembered as the second officer of what was once the largest ship afloat. Charles Lightoller was the last person off of and the most senior surviving officer of the Titanic.

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What better way to learn the correct way to play softball than from the coaches and players of a two-time defending state champion? That is what is being offered on July 2nd and 3rd when the Quitman High School softball team hosts a Softball Youth Camp at the Jackson Parish Recreation Department Sports Complex located at 5254 Hwy 4 East in Jonesboro. 

Hours of the camp will be from 8:00 am – 12:00 pm where participants will receive instruction on fundamental training, pitching and catching, strategy and positioning, and take part in fun skills competition. 

For more information or questions, contact QHS head softball coach Justin Dodson at (318) 243-7251

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Turn Purpose Into Action—Join the United Way Team!

Are you passionate about making a difference in your community? United Way of Northeast Louisiana is now hiring dedicated, community-minded professionals to help drive meaningful change across our region.

Current Open Positions:

Development Officer – Lincoln, Union, Jackson Market
Financial Health Associate
Education & Social Impact Associate
Community Resource Navigator
211 Information & Referral Specialis

If you’re ready to be part of something bigger and create a lasting impact, we invite you to click here or apply today at unitedwaynela.org/careers.

Together, we can make a difference.

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Energy Levels Wane

Beware of the summertime slump…

You won’t be to blame; energy levels wane during hot weather. In no way do we feel in step with the Ever Ready Bunny.

Pay attention to signals of weakness. Our ebb in energy might not be caused by high temperature readings alone. Sometimes sin can be a root cause. King David discovered the reason for his lack of vitality.

“Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven,
Whose sin is covered.
Blessed is the man to whom the Lord does not impute iniquity,
And in whose spirit there is no deceit.

When I kept silent, my bones grew old
Through my groaning all the day long.
For day and night Your hand was heavy upon me;
My vitality was turned into the drought of summer. Selah (Psalms 32:1-4 NKJV).”

In humility, David confessed his sin to the LORD…

“I acknowledged my sin to You,
And my iniquity I have not hidden.
I said, ‘I will confess my transgressions to the Lord,’
And You forgave the iniquity of my sin. Selah (Psalms 32:5 NKJV).”

To God be the glory, His strength is made perfect through my weakness.

“And He said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me (2 Corinthians 12:9 NKJV).”

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

Amy Henderson (Quitman, LA) – Conspiracy to Distribute Schedule II Drug, Possession of Schedule II Drug
Shelby D. Kelly (Jonesboro, LA) – Conspiracy to Distribute Schedule II Drug
Jeremy Murphy (Jonesboro, LA) – Domestic Abuse Battery
Jeremy Watson (Jonesboro, LA) – Non Support Violation
Ashley Renee Harvey (Quitman, LA) – Lincoln Parish Warrants on Possession of Schedule II, Possession of Schedule I, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of Schedule II, Possession of Schedule I, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia 
Jeanne P. Ray (Jonesboro, LA) – Unauthorized Entry of Inhabited Dwelling, Burglary of Inhabited Dwelling
Daivyan Holland (Jonesboro, LA) – Possesion of a Firearm by a Felon
John H. Shaw (Arlington, TX) – DWI 2nd Offense, Stop Sign Violation, Caddo Parish Warrants x2

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

CAREER OPPORTUNITY

The Jackson Parish Police Jury is hiring for the following open position. Please submit all applications to: Jackson Parish Police Jury Administrative Building, 160 Industrial Drive, Jonesboro, LA 71251. Applications will be received until 4:30 pm on Friday, July 11, 2025. To request a detailed job description, please contact our office at (318) 259-2361 or by email: nevans@jppj.org.

POSITION: General Laborer
DEPARTMENT: Jackson Parish Road Department

Description:
Under close supervision, the Road Department General Laborer performs unskilled manual labor, operation of light equipment requiring no special training or experience, and performs related work as required by the supervisor. Laborers in this position class are also responsible for the operation of a variety of construction and maintenance equipment and for performing manual labor activities as needed and/or required by the Road Department.

Minimum Qualifications:
• Must be 18 years of age.
• High school diploma, or equivalent, required.
• Class E Driver’s License; progression towards a CDL license a plus.
• Three (3) months of experience in the operation of equipment listed above preferred but not required.
• Must be able to lift up to 100 pounds frequently.
• Ability to work safely in all weather conditions, including adverse conditions.
• Can understand and follow oral and written instructions.
• Able to work in elevated areas, confined spaces, and on and off ladders.
• Must be able to sit and stand for extended periods of time.

Basic Responsibilities:
• The General Laborer is responsible for performing industrial and safety housekeeping of assigned areas following the instructions from their supervisor.
• Operates Police Jury-owned vehicles, such as pick-up trucks, backhoe, street sweeper, dump trucks, farm–type tractors, bush hog cutters, boom mowers, etc. as required.
• Operates hand and power tools and equipment, such as mowers, chain saws, air compressor, small compaction equipment, etc. as required.
• Mows grass and rights of ways with hand power equipment.
• Uses hand tools to load and unload sand, dirt, gravel, and hot and cold mix asphalt.
• Repairs potholes.
• Required to inspect and repair equipment as directed by department procedures, as well as be able to make repairs to parish roads, curbs and sidewalks.
• Performs road and ditch maintenance and associated work.
• Cleans culverts and other drainage structures including placing rip rap and filter cloth.
• Sweep streets, shop, and sidewalks; clean up debris and materials from roads, bridges, and culverts.
• Flags traffic when needed.
• Manually moves and transports equipment, materials, etc.
• Loads and unloads materials from trucks including debris, sand, dirt, gravel, etc.
• Cleans trucks, replace blades, and other maintenance of equipment as needed.
• Performs building maintenance, cleaning offices, restrooms, and shop as needed.
• Assists operators, truck drivers, mechanics etc. with specific projects as requested.
• Performs a variety of other heavy manual work in connection with the maintenance of streets, bridges, and drainage of parish roads.
• Ready to learn from on-the-job training when necessary.
• Follows safety procedures and practices as required, as well as wearing required safety equipment.
• Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

Detailed Job Description available upon request.

CAREER OPPORTUNITY

Jackson Parish Hospital, located at 165 Beech Springs Road in Jonesboro, is seeking a full-time housekeeper. To apply or learn more about the position, you are asked to contact JPH Housekeeping Manager, Kelly, at the Jackson Parish Hospital or call (318) 259-4435.

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF LOUISIANA, PARISH OF JACKSON,
SECOND JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT
PROBATE DOCKET NUMBER 5086
VERDIE CHRISTINE JOHNSON

FIRST NOTICE

NOTICE IS GIVEN, that the Administratrix of this succession has filed a petition for authority to sell immovable property belonging to the deceased at private sale in accordance with the provisions of Article 3281 of the Louisiana Code of Civil Procedure for $133,500.00 Dollars cash. The immovable property proposed to be sold at private sale is described as follows:

A 0.834 acre tract of land situated in the NW¼ of SE¼, Section 23, Township 15 North, Range 2 West, Jackson Parish, Louisiana and being more particularly described as follows, to-wit:

Commencing at a 2½” aluminum post (found) marking the Southeast corner of Section 23, T15N, R2W, Jackson Parish, Louisiana, as per plat of survey by Virgil T. Collins, P.L.S., and run West 2110.50 feet to a point; thence proceed North 1778.31 feet to a P.K. nail (found) marking an intersection with the centerline of Haven Loop Road and the East Right-of-Way line of Hancock Haven Road; thence leaving said centerline proceed the following two courses along the aforementioned East Right-of-Way; N08°01’34″E 56.19 feet to a 3/4″ iron rod (found) and N04°20’32″W 180.00 feet to a 3/4″ iron rod (found) marking the Southwest corner and POINT-OF-BEGINNING of the 0.834 tract of land hereinafter described; thence continue N04°20’32″W along said East Right-of-Way 125.00 feet to a 3/4″ iron rod (set); thence leaving said right-of-way proceed N88°35’27″E 291.00 feet to a 3/4″ iron rod (set); thence proceed S04°20’32” E 125.00 feet to a 3/4″ iron rod (found); thence proceed S88°35’27″W 291.00 feet to the POINT-OF-BEGINNING containing 0.834 acres and being subject to all servitudes of record or of use. All as is shown on that certain plat of survey dated May 27, 2003 by Walter Glen Kirkland, Professional Land Surveyor, Louisiana Reg. No. 4759 together with a Cavalier Model A5010 Mobile Home Serial No. BC03AL0132820A/B.

Municipal Address: 407 Hancock Haven Rd., Jonesboro, LA 71226

Any heir or creditor who opposes the proposed sale must file their opposition within seven (7) days from the day on which the last publication of this notice appears.

Sylvia Dianne Walters, Administratrix

PUBLIC NOTICE

Utilities, Inc. of Louisiana Paradise Point Water Supply is currently in violation of the maximum contaminant level (MCL) for total trihalomethanes as set forth by the State [Part XII of the Louisiana State Sanitary Code (LAC 51:Xll)] and the Federal Primary Drinking Water Regulations (40 CFR Part 141).

The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals (LDHH) set drinking water standards and requires the disinfection of drinking water. Where disinfection is used in the treatment of drinking water, disinfectants combine with naturally occurring organic and inorganic matter present in water to form chemicals called disinfection byproducts (DBPs). EPA and LDHH set standards for controlling the levels of disinfectants and DBPs in drinking water, including trihalomethanes (THMs) and haloacetic acid (HAAs). Some people who drink water containing THMs in excess of the MCL over many years may experience problems with their liver, kidneys, or central nervous system, and may have an increased risk of getting cancer. Some people who drink water containing HAA5s in excess of the MCL over many years may have an increased risk of getting cancer.

In December 1998, EPA set enforceable drinking water standards for TTHMs at 80 parts per billion (ppb) and for HAA5 at 60 parts per billion (ppb) to reduce the risk of cancer or other adverse health effects. Compliance with the TTHMs and HAA5 standards for public water systems servicing less than 10,000 individuals initially became effective and enforceable on January 1, 2004. Compliance with the TTHMs standard is determine by calculating a locational running annual average (LRRA) of quarterly TTHMs and HAA5 sample results. Compliance calculations performed for the second quarter of 2025 show that the system’s current TTHMs LRAAs is 88 ppb at sample location DBP01 – 119 Eden Drive. Thus, the system is currently in violation of TTHMs standards.

The granulated activated carbon (GAC) filter is now online. The samples were collected when the interconnect with Spillway was closed. Spillway’s TTHM level for the 2Q2025 was non-detect, demonstrating the GAC filter was successful in lowering TTHM levels. The interconnect with Spillway is open, and UIL anticipates the TTHM LRAA will continue to decrease.

Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail. If you have any questions, contact the UIL Compliance Administrator, Vicki Spence at 985-893-6646.

This is not an emergency. If it had been, you would have been notified immediately. EPA and LDH do not consider this violation to have any serious adverse health effects on human health as a result of short-term exposure; however, continued long-term exposure to TTHMs and HAA5 levels above the standard (e.g., 20 years of exposure) has the potential to have serious adverse effects on human health.

PUBLIC NOTICE

Utilities, Inc. of Louisiana Spillway Water Supply is currently in violation of the maximum contaminant level (MCL) for total trihalomethanes as set forth by the State [Part XII of the Louisiana State Sanitary Code (LAC 51:Xll)] and the Federal Primary Drinking Water Regulations (40 CFR Part 141).

The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals (LDHH) set drinking water standards and requires the disinfection of drinking water. Where disinfection is used in the treatment of drinking water, disinfectants combine with naturally occurring organic and inorganic matter present in water to form chemicals called disinfection byproducts (DBPs). EPA and LDHH set standards for controlling the levels of disinfectants and DBPs in drinking water, including trihalomethanes (THMs) and haloacetic acid (HAAs). Some people who drink water containing THMs in excess of the MCL over many years may experience problems with their liver, kidneys, or central nervous system, and may have an increased risk of getting cancer. Some people who drink water containing HAA5s in excess of the MCL over many years may have an increased risk of getting cancer.

In December 1998, EPA set enforceable drinking water standards for TTHMs at 80 parts per billion (ppb) and for HAA5 at 60 parts per billion (ppb) to reduce the risk of cancer or other adverse health effects. Compliance with the TTHMs and HAA5 standards for public water systems servicing less than 10,000 individuals initially became effective and enforceable on January 1, 2004. Compliance with the TTHMs and HAA5 standard is determine by calculating a locational running annual average (LRRA) of quarterly TTHMs and HAA5 sample results. Compliance calculations performed for the second quarter of 2025 are 82 ppb at sample location DBP03- 211 Spruce Drive. Thus, the system is currently in violation of TTHMs standards.

The granulated activated carbon (GAC) filter is now online. The TTHM level for the 2Q2025 was non-detect, demonstrating the GAC filter was successful in lowering TTHM levels. UIL anticipates the TTHM LRAA will continue to decrease.

Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail. If you have any questions, contact the UIL Compliance Administrator, Vicki Spence at 985-893-6646.

This is not an emergency. If it had been, you would have been notified immediately. EPA and LDH do not consider this violation to have any serious adverse health effects on human health as a result of short-term exposure; however, continued long-term exposure to TTHMs and HAA5 levels above the standard (e.g., 20 years of exposure) has the potential to have serious adverse effects on human health.

 

 

Reese Walker 
November 25, 1972 – June 29, 2025

Reese Walker, age 52, passed away at his home in Saline, Louisiana, on Sunday, June 29, 2025.

Friends may visit with the family at Southern-Edmonds Funeral Home Chapel in Jonesboro on Monday, July 7, 2025 from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM. The funeral service will be held at Friendship Baptist Church on Tuesday, July 8, 2025 at 10:00 AM with Bro. Kelly Leach officiating. Burial will follow at Taylor Cemetery in Liberty Hill, Louisiana under the direction of Southern-Edmonds Funeral Home.

Bonnie Jean Walker
July 29, 1950 – June 24, 2024

Bonnie Jean Walker of Jonesboro passed away on June 24th at the age of 73 years old. Public Visitation will take place from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm on Saturday, July 5th at the Greater Jonesboro Church of God in Christ in Jonesboro, LA followed by her Life Celebration. Interment will then take place in the Belton Cemetery in Jonesboro under the direction of Paradise Funeral Home. 

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Matt Herring has been announced as head coach for the Weston High School girls basketball team for the upcoming 2025-26 season. Herring replaces Stacy Tucker, who served Weston High School as a coach for 21 years, with 17 of those being the Lady Wolves head coach. 

Herring, a University of Louisiana-Monroe (UOM) alum and who resides in Ouachita Parish with his wife and 3 sons, brings to Weston 20 years of coaching experience, including 11 years as head coach of Kilbourne High School, where he was named District Coach of the Year four times. 

“My philosophy as a coach is to focus on building lasting programs and healthy, successful athletes. I aim to win by pushing my team to give it their all through training and discipline. I intend to see Weston’s girls basketball program succeed in more ways than one. It’s about legacy. Legacy for the athletes, legacy for Weston High School and for the community.” – Coach Herring

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Dakota Knox (Quarterback / Defensive Back) and Landon Boston (Running Back / Linebacker) are expected to play important roles for Jonesboro-Hodge High School this fall.

Apparently, the coaching staff of Central Methodist University in Fayette, Missouri believes the two Tiger seniors-to-be will have outstanding seasons as both have received football scholarship offers from the NAIA member school. Both were extremely grateful of the early offer.

“Blessed to receive my first ever offer from Central Methodist,” said Knox whose sentiment was echoed by Boston who stated “After a great conversation with Coach Garcia, I am extremely blessed to receive this offer.”

Central Methodist University is one of 14 schools that compete in the Heart of America Conference and already have two former JHHS gridders on the roster in Cartavious Waters and Joshua Tatum.

When it comes to 4-H Shooting Sports competition, Jackson Parish has well earned tradition of having some of the best marksmen in the nation. This past week at the 2025 Shooting Sports National Competition in Grand Island, Nebraska, Remington Gregory continued this outstanding legacy by winning the Air Pistol Silhouette National Championship. 

Bouyed by Gregory’s victory and fellow Jackson Parish representative, Easton Hall, coming in 13th overall in the event, the Louisiana Air Pistol team, coached by Bob Davis, placed first in the silhouette competition as well.  

Team Louisiana also won the Overall National Championship for the second year in a row and the fifth time in the past six years. Gregory and Hall were instrumental in the effort for not only their placings in the Silhouettes competition but in Slow Fire and Rapid Fire as well.

National Air Pistol Placings

Silhouettes
Remington Gregory – 1st Place
Easton Hall – 13th Place
Team Louisiana – 1st Place
Slow Fire
Remington Gregory – 9th Place
Easton Hall – 27th Place
Team Louisiana – 9th Place
Rapid Fire
Remington Gregory – 19th Place
Easton Hall – 22nd Place
TeamLouisiana – 7th Place

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The year was 1989. It was the first year that Joey Pender had become a head football coach, having taken over from two-time state championship-winning coach Walter Causey after spending several seasons as an assistant at Jonesboro-Hodge High School. 

By season’s end, JHHS had won its third straight LHSAA state championship, launching Pender to an illustrious two-decade-plus career as a high school football coach at JHHS and Winnfield, where he is still the all-time winningest coach at both schools as well as West Ouachita, and Ruston High School.

On Saturday, eight senior members from the “three-peat” team gathered together to recognize the great achievement that took place 35 years ago and honor Pender with a commemorative autographed football.

“It isn’t often that I am at a loss for words,” laughed Pender, who now is the Compliance Coordinator for the Louisiana High School Athletic Association (LHSAA) and a renowned member of the K104 Friday Night Scoreboard Show. “but I don’t know how to express how much this means to me that these guys would come together from all over 35 years later to do this.”

Gathering at the home of Matt Causey in Shreveport were a “who’s who” in Tiger lore, including current JHHS head football coach Terrance Blankenship, Casey Blake, Jay Watson, D’Edward Kary, Norman Bradford, Tyuan Hayes, and Shawn Blundell. 

“To see these guys again and get to relive those days is really something special,” continued Pender. “For them to remember me in this way is one of the biggest honors I could ever ask for.” 

Former JHHS standout Carlos Hicks, who has been on Blankenship’s staff as the Tigers Defensive Coordinator for the past 13 years gave another meaningful perspective on the gathering. 

“This shows you that competing in athletics has such a huge impact on your life because of the number of people you bond with that turn into lasting friendships,” reflected Hicks. “Thirty-five years later these guys still think about one another and their coach. If only the world knew how powerful being a member of a team is.”

 

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Registration is ongoing to be in the 8th annual Caney Lake Flotilla, that will take place at 10:00 am on Saturday, July 5th. Come celebrate the 4th of July holidays and join 2025 Grand Marshal, Tammy Gunter, and large cast of boaters who will tour the Caney Lake circuit. 

To sign up click here or go to https://forms.gle/MoN3GDoA8Z7J1dgz6

For more flotilla information you can also go to www.caneylakecommunityfoundation.org

2025 Caney Lake Flotilla Route

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The Jackson Parish 10U All-Star team beat Jena 9-4 this past Wednesday to earn the title of 2025 Dixie Youth District 8 tournament champions. And it couldn’t have come any harder.  

By tourney’s end, JP10U played a whopping six games over five days to win the 10-team tournament that was held in Natchitoches, including facing the same team three times and playing twice on two days. 

Jackson Parish opened the tourney by “walking off” Alexandria in an 11-10 thriller by scoring a run in the bottom of the sixth inning to rally from an early 9-2 deficit. That set up a contest against Pineville, which the locals fell by a 14-5 score that dropped them into the losers’ bracket.

With their backs against the wall, JP10U knuckled down to blast Buckeye 10-0, setting up a rematch with Pineville that saw the locals gain revenge of the early defeat by scoring in every inning for a statement-making 11-3 victory. 

That left Jackson Parish, Pineville, and Jena all with one loss each, forcing tournament officials to go to tie-breaking rules that found Jena earning the bye into the championship game by virtue of having scored the most runs of the three and JP10U and Pineville having to play each other for the third time. 

“I’ve never been in a situation where we had to play the same team three times and not be in the championship game, but that is the way the bracket was drawn up,” said Jackson Parish head coach Dusty Nomey. “I really liked our chances, though, as after the second Pineville game, we were full of confidence and the guys had shown that they simply were not going to be denied.” 

Pineville had other ideas, though….

In the “rubber game,” Pineville quickly jumped out to a 4-0 lead, scoring two runs in each of the second and third innings. Then as they had done all tournament, the “Cardiac Kids” as Nomey dubbed his squad started battling back. 

“It all started in the finals of the pre-district tournament we played in the week before,” reflected Nomey. “We established a team identity of never giving up and playing to the end.”

In symbolism of that, before every at bat, the team would gather around coaches Nomey, Railey Garrett, and Lance Seymore and as a unit utter the word GRIND, bringing to mind to stay focused and keep playing hard no matter what the situation.

That mentality was never more evident than in the final three innings of game three against Pineville. With time starting to run out, Jackson Parish started pecking away at the deficit in the bottom of the fourth inning. Maddox Graham opened the frame by stroking a single, followed by Cruz Nomey coaxing a base on balls. That brought up Andrew Seymor,e whose single put Jackson Parish on the board. 

In the bottom of the fifth, Jackson Parish shaved another run off the Pineville lead as Landry Garrett singled and scored following a heady coaching decision. After Garrett took second on a passed ball, Nomey called on Ryder Gray to lay down a bunt, which he did expertly, as the sacrifice moved Garrett to third, leading to him scoring two pitches later on a fly out by Nash Moak to close the gap to 4-2. Gray, who was the complete game winner, then shut down the explosive Pineville lineup for a third straight inning to put Jackson Parish in position to come away with their second “walk-off” victory of the tourney.

Jackson Parish wasted no time in completing the dramatic rally as Graham opened the climactic bottom of the sixth inning with a single and went to third following a Nomey blast to centerfield that ended up as a double. Seymore then singled in a run that sent Nomey to third base. From there, he scampered home on a passed ball that also saw Seymore go all the way to third.  After Sutton Vail drew a walk, Grant Williams slammed a 2-0 pitch past the Pineville third baseman to score Seymore and send the Jackson Parish team and fans into delirium after having completed the improbable three-run rally to secure a spot in the championship game.

“I’ve been around a lot of young guys, but this group is something special,” beamed Nomey. “Pineville has a really good team but our guys simply just don’t quit, no matter what the situation is. It is an honor to be associated with them.”

It was almost as if the championship game was decided before it ever began. With Jackson Parish full to the brim with confidence, Jena never had a chance, even though they probably felt pretty good after scoring a run in the top of the first inning.

All that did was open the floodgates as Jackson Parish quickly established dominance by scoring three runs following Clay Burton opening with a walk, Maddox Graham singling, and Cruz Nomey hitting a second straight double in two games before scoring on an Andrew Seymore groundout. 

The goal of winning the district title became a virtual reality in the bottom of the third, when Jackson Parish took advantage of erratic Jena pitching to plate five more to go up by what turned out to be an insurmountable 8-1 lead. Asher Cooper got the biggest run-scoring inning of the tournament since the Buckeye game started by coaxing a walk on four pitches, followed by Nomey getting plunked and Graham hitting a single to load the bases with no outs. That set up a Seymore single that was followed by both Nomey and Graham scoring on passed balls. After Sutton Vail grounded out to score Seymore with the fourth run of the inning, Hunter Williams drew yet another free pass and then stole his way around the bases for the final run of the frame. Jackson Parish would add another run in their next at bat when Clay Burton smashed a line drive to left field for a triple and Graham singled him home in the next at bat. 

Regional Bound! By virtue of their winning the district title, Jackson Parish qualified for the South Regional Tournament that will be played in Metarie, LA, July 10-13 for the right to earn as spot in the Dixie Youth 10U State Tournament on July 18-19. 

 

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As Ms. Angela Shows, Director of the JHHS Agriscience Department was strolling in Walmart a few weeks ago, it was divine intervention as Town of Jonesboro Mayor J. “Spike” Harris happened to be shopping in the same department.

Conversation began and the Mayor inquired about what would be the possibility of the JHHS Agriscience Department constructing some heavy picnic tables for Jonesboro’s Deacon of Defense walking trail and McDonald’s Recreation Park.

With that news and eager to build, JHHS Summer Agriscience Interns, Ms. Trinity Davis and Vanessa Clifton, under the direction of Ms. Shows, began the construction of the tables.

Being a win-win situation, the JHHS Agriscience Department earned funds for the upcoming school year and the residents of Jonesboro get brand new picnic tables to sit on and enjoy fellowshipping.

“On behalf of the JHHS Agriscience Department, we say thank you to Mayor Harris for supporting our school,” – Angela Shows 

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The Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce that Stassen’s Catfish Inn and Smith’s Body & Collision have become new members. These locally owned businesses represent the values of hard work, quality service, and community spirit that make Jackson Parish a great place to live and work.

Stassen’s Catfish Inn is already making waves with its mouthwatering Southern cooking, especially its signature crispy catfish and home-style sides that keep customers coming back for more. Whether you’re craving a hearty lunch or a family dinner, Stassen’s offers a welcoming atmosphere and a taste of Louisiana tradition that feels like home.

Smith’s Body & Collision brings years of professional experience in auto repair and collision restoration. Known for their honesty, quality craftsmanship, and fast turnaround, they’re the go-to shop for anyone needing reliable vehicle repairs. From minor fender-benders to major restorations, Smith’s treats every car like it’s their own.

The Jackson Parish Chamber of Commerce encourages everyone to stop by and support these fantastic local businesses and looks forward to partnering with them as we continue to strengthen our local economy.

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 Jonesboro-Hodge Middle School has named Cannon Tatum, Kenneth Vaughn, and Levi Martin as Tigers of the Week. Given in honor of former JHHS and JHMS football player Tayvionne Tate who tragically lost his life earlier this year, the three junior Tigers were selected for their outstanding leadership during strength and conditioning exercises this week during summer football practice. 

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The Weston High School Beta Club members kept in tune with the theme of the National Convention in Orlando, FL this past week by “Radiating” their way to several top placements in their respective competitions. 

2025 BETA National Convention Award Winners

Brianna Moffitt: 3rd  Place in Division 1 Mixed Media
Abram Toms: 4th Place in Division 1 Quilling
Molly Beaubouef: 5th Place in Division 2 Mixed Media
Alley Hines: 4th Place in Division 2 Quilling
Molly Beaubouef, Michell Cruz, Kari Beth Gates, Livi Otwell, Anna Shows, & Abram Toms – 4th Place in Service Learning Showcase Team Competition

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Jonesboro-Hodge Elementary School (J-HES) proudly hosted Urban Cheer Experience (Varsity Brands) for their home-based summer cheer camp on Monday, June 23- Wednesday, June 25.

The individualized instruction allowed the team to hone in on skill fundamentals, crowd leading, and team bonding with exclusive UCE materials and dances. The squad is under the direction of Ms. Lauren Bennett, who looks forward to the girls serving as school ambassadors and showing off their skills at this coming year’s pep rallies and elementary basketball games.

The team would like to thank Jonesboro State Bank for selecting the J-HES Cheerleaders to be a Pledge 10 Grant recipient. The grant was greatly beneficial as it helped offset the costs of camp and uniforms.

The camp concluded with a Showcase Performance/Awards. The awards are as follows:

Team Overall “Superior” Rating
Team Overall UCE Banner
Team Overall “On Point” Award
Team Spirit Stick

Mini “On Point” Award: Baylee Wilson
Most Energized: D’Riya Hayes
Most Improved: Skylynne Hurst and Khalee Martin
“Pin It Forward” Award: Demi Qualls and Draya Kelly
TikTok Mash Up Award: Mary-Kathryn Malone, Brooklyn Carpenter, Nylasia Davis, and Baylee Wilson
Musical Chairs Award: Aulani Williams and Nylasia Davis
Groups Game Award: Mary-Kathryn Malone, Za’Mier Jacobs, and Justice Watkins
Ships & Sailors Game Award: LaDarria Thompson

2025-26 J-HES Cheerleading Squad members: 

Baylee Wilson, Captain
LaDarria Thompson, Co-Captain
Brooklyn Carpenter
Nylasia Davis
D’Riya Hayes
Skylynne Hurst
Za’Mier Jacobs
Draya Kelly
Mary-Kathryn Malone
Khalee Martin
Demi Qualls
Justice Watkins
Aulani Williams

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It was a festive day full of cake, ice cream and fun games on Friday, June 28th at the Chatham Senior Center as five patrons were recognized as having birthdays in June. Being recognized were Carl Tippen, Billie Robinson, Ronald Austin, Helen Austin and Ronald Kirkland.

Helping make the festivities the best they could be were two special guests who treated those in attendance to games of Bingo, complete with prizes for the winners. Congratulations to Cliff Rogers and Elsworth Hatten who were the winners of the Bingo Blackout game sponsored by Mitchell’s Pharmacy and Luther Lott, Mary Kirkland, Mary Tippen, David Lockett, Ronald Austin, and Eddie Ruth Wyatt who were Bingo game winners that was sponsored by the Reed family. 

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