Questions surrounding transparency and procedural fairness in the Sabine Parish EMS Request for Proposals (RFP) process have prompted heightened public concern and renewed calls for community involvement.

According to information brought forward in recent days, the Attorney General’s Office has reviewed allegations related to the Police Jury and EMS Advisory Board’s handling of the EMS provider selection process. One issue under scrutiny involves changes made to scoring and criteria during evaluation.

Documents indicate that Pafford Ambulance would have led the scoring had adjustments not been made to scoring sheets — specifically, the alteration of multiple scores from 10 to 20 by a board member. The tally was reportedly taken in a session later deemed improper, raising further concerns about the legitimacy of the evaluation.

Another concern centers on an alleged change to Acadian Ambulance’s required response time, which was modified from 19 minutes to 25 minutes during the RFP process. Because response times are considered a material component of an EMS contract, any change of that significance typically requires a formal addendum, notification to all vendors, and an opportunity for revised submissions. Without that, the process risks being invalidated or challenged.

Community members advocating for accountability argue that the EMS RFP should be restarted to ensure a legal, transparent, and fair process for all providers. They emphasize that the issue is not which vendor wins, but that the decision is made properly and in accordance with state procurement rules.

A special call meeting of the Sabine Parish EMS Advisory Board has been scheduled for Monday, Dec. 1 at 5 p.m. in the Police Jury Meeting Room in Many. The posted agenda includes an executive session to discuss the professional competence of Acadian Ambulance, Med Express, and Pafford, followed by the tallying of proposal scores.

Residents are being urged to attend to ensure community oversight and support a transparent process before any final EMS contract decision is made.

---

Journal Services Staff

Thanksgiving has always been more than a holiday. It is a pause button placed firmly near the end of the year—a reminder that despite the speed, noise, and pressure of modern life, there are some things too important to neglect. Chief among them is family.

In a world that constantly pushes us toward the next deadline, the next notification, the next obligation, Thanksgiving invites us to slow down long enough to truly see the people in front of us. It reminds us that our connections with one another are not distractions from life—they are life. The table we gather around, the conversations we share, and the traditions we pass from one generation to the next form the foundation of who we are and who we hope to be.

For many families, this year has not been easy. Economic uncertainty, rising costs, health challenges, and the lingering strain of national division have all taken their toll. Yet Thanksgiving teaches us that even in difficult seasons, gratitude can anchor us. It helps us focus not on what is missing, but on what remains: love, loyalty, shared memories, and the people who continue to stand by us even when the world feels unsteady.

Putting family first does not require grand gestures. It can be as simple as setting our phones aside for a few hours, listening without distraction, or offering a sincere thank-you to someone who quietly keeps everything running. It means showing up—with patience, with kindness, and with a willingness to forgive the small imperfections that every family carries. It means recognizing that time is precious, that moments are fleeting, and that the relationships around us deserve our best attention, not just our leftover energy.

This Thanksgiving, let us choose to be fully present. Let us remember that family is not defined solely by blood, but by commitment, compassion, and the people who walk beside us through every season. Let us honor the elders who shaped us, encourage the children who are watching us, and embrace those who may be feeling the weight of the holidays more than they want to admit.

Above all, let us make the conscious choice to put family first—not just on Thanksgiving Day, but throughout the year ahead. Because long after the dishes are washed and the leftovers are gone, it is our bonds with one another that will sustain us, steady us, and shape the stories we pass down.

May this Thanksgiving bring warmth to your home, peace to your heart, and a renewed appreciation for the people who make your life meaningful.

---

Oh, what fun it is to be in Toledo Bend Lake Country this time of year! Sabine Parish is officially kicking off the Christmas season with a festive lineup of parades, markets, lights, and community celebrations taking place throughout the month of December. Families from across the region are invited to join in the holiday magic as towns around Toledo Bend host a variety of events designed to bring joy, tradition, and togetherness to the parish.

The festivities begin November 28–29 in Converse, where the town will host its annual tree lighting,

From November 29 through December 28, visitors can experience the Winter Wonderland of Lights at Cypress Bend Park, open Thursday through Sunday (closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day).

Many Town Square will welcome the season on December 2 with its Tree Lighting Celebration, followed by Moonlight Madness shopping in Many on December 4, where local stores will offer special after-hours sales.

The holiday excitement continues December 5–6 in Zwolle, hosting the Zwolle Christmas Festival, including the annual parade on Saturday. That same weekend, Wildwood Resort will present the 2nd

Annual Toledo Bend Bigfoot Symposium, adding a unique twist to the season.

On December 6, celebrations expand to Ft. Jesup State Historic Site for Tea & Textiles: Christmas Ornaments, as well as The Bend Café, which will host a Christmas Market and photos with Santa.

Festivities wrap up on December 13 in Many, where the Town of Many Christmas Parade & Festival will bring together families, floats, music, and holiday spirit.

Residents and visitors can find the full schedule of jolly events and plan their holiday celebrations by visiting: toledobendlakecountry.com/calendar

With twinkling lights, community gatherings, and festive fun for all ages, there’s no better place to celebrate the magic of the season than right here in Toledo Bend Lake Country.

---

Zwolle High School is celebrating the accomplishments of four FFA students who competed in the District 5 Speaking Competition on November 20.

Among the standout performers, Isabella Q. earned 3rd place in Extemporaneous Public Speaking, showcasing strong critical thinking and communication skills. Lillianna Q. placed 4th in Employment Skills, demonstrating excellence in resume building, interviewing, and professional readiness.

School officials and FFA advisors expressed pride in all four students who represented Zwolle High School and the Zwolle FFA chapter at the event, praising their dedication, preparation, and leadership.

The school extends congratulations to each participant for their hard work and for continuing to uphold a tradition of excellence in agricultural education and student leadership.

---

The Louisiana Department of Education has released the 2025 District and School Performance Scores, and Sabine Parish Schools is once again celebrating sustained academic progress. For the fourth consecutive year, the district’s overall performance has improved, with the 2025 District Performance Score rising by 1.3 points to 88.6.

District officials say the continued upward trend reflects the daily dedication of students, teachers, and staff who work to deliver meaningful instruction, build strong relationships, and create supportive environments across all campuses.

Four schools maintained their A ratings: Ebarb, Many High, Negreet, and Zwolle High.

Sixty percent of district schools increased their School Performance Scores, including Converse, Ebarb, Many Elementary, Many High, Many Junior High, and Pleasant Hill.

Converse and Many High posted the largest gains, with SPS increases of 4.6 and 4.7 points, respectively.

Zwolle Elementary continued its strong trajectory, maintaining momentum from last year’s notable 6.5-point growth.

Five schools earned Top Gains status for exceptional LEAP progress: Converse, Florien, Many High, Negreet, and Zwolle High.

Two schools earned the Opportunity Honoree designation for strong support of at-risk student populations, including English learners, economically disadvantaged students, and students with disabilities: Many High and Negreet.

District leaders attribute Sabine Parish’s consistent progress to ongoing efforts to strengthen instruction, elevate student engagement, and prioritize the whole child. Educators across the parish continue to focus on creating safe, encouraging, and academically rigorous learning environments.

Teachers, counselors, and school leaders have also emphasized building students’ confidence, fostering high expectations, and sustaining positive school cultures that contribute to long-term success.

“These results reflect the hard work happening in every classroom, every day,” said Superintendent Shane Wright. “Our teachers and staff continue to step forward with purpose, ensuring that students are challenged academically and supported socially and emotionally. I am proud of the progress our schools have made, and I’m confident that our best days are still ahead. Together, we are building a stronger Sabine Parish, one student at a time.”

Sabine Parish Schools remains committed to its mission of Building a Stronger Sabine Parish, One Student at a Time. District leaders say this year’s results demonstrate what is possible when schools, families, and community partners unite with a shared vision of ensuring success for every child.

With momentum on their side, Sabine Parish Schools aim to continue this pattern of growth in the years ahead.

---

Sports has been a huge part of my life, especially when it comes to baseball and football. I’ve always taken pride in the fact that I never used any form of performance-enhancing drugs to play at a high level. In my mind, this would be a form of cheating, and I made a conscious choice to never be a part of that culture of athletes.

I saw first-hand how some athletes abused and became victims of decisions and choices they made. It was a huge eye-opening experience my first spring training with the Montreal Expos organization as I saw how many players were using enhancers to perform at a high level.

I saw the organization basically turn a blind eye to what players were doing to become better. Oh, it was no secret, and most players did not try and hide what they were using as it was on full display in their lockers. It was just another form of cheating!

Cheating has now become rampant in the tournament bass fishing world. It seems that in every tournament, someone breaks a rule, fails a polygraph test and gets disqualified.

In the past three years, it has gotten worse — from professional anglers getting caught to amateur anglers trying to win specialty events like big bass tournaments. What happened to the days of anglers going out and fishing with honesty and following the rules?

Why has there been such a surge in anglers’ cheating? The first answer is probably the amount of money tournaments are putting up. Even the lower levels of MLF (Major League Fishing) and the B.A.S.S. organizations have anglers fishing for hundreds of thousands of dollars and opportunities to advance up the ladder of professional bass fishing.

Even big bass events have anglers fishing for over $100,000 for catching one fish! Like anything else, when there’s a lot of money on the line, it seems to bring out the worst in people. Just like in any form of criminal activity, just follow the money.

Some anglers will say that there are just too many rules. We all know that the more rules you have in any sport, the more that must be enforced. This makes a bass tournament director’s job even more difficult.

So how do we hit the reset button and get anglers to find their moral compass and follow the rules? I’m not sure we can put the genie back into the bottle, as our society in general has so many people with no morals who will do whatever they can in order to win or get ahead in life.

I think the first course of action must be making the punishment fit the crime. Organizations must come down harder on these individuals who think it’s OK to cheat! Guidelines need to be established for the severity of the rule or rules that have been violated.

We aren’t looking for anyone to go before the firing squad, but suspending anglers for the entire season would be a great start. The harder you come down on these anglers, the more they will think twice about cheating.

Maybe we need to go the legal route, as cheating in a bass tournament is considered fraud. By making a few examples with prosecution, it will probably make others think twice about bending the rules.

These are sad times we live in and it’s a shame we have so many anglers that think it’s OK to cheat. This is one of many reasons why tournament participation is down nationwide. But with more severe punishment, maybe we can reset the course of tournament bass fishing.

Contact Steve at sgraf26@yahoo.com.

---

The Joint Transportation, Highways, & Public Works Committee will conduct a legislative public hearing on Tuesday, Dec. 2 at 2:30 p.m. The purpose of the hearing – commonly referred to as the annual DOTD Road Show – is to review the highway construction priorities for the fiscal year 2026-2027.

Location:

Pineville City Hall
Council Meeting Room
910 Main Street
Pineville, LA 71360

District 08 (Avoyelles, Grant, Natchitoches, Rapides, Sabine, Vernon, & Winn Parishes)

Each DOTD District will be hosting its own Road Show to allow legislators, other elected officials, DOTD representatives and the general public to discuss and obtain information about construction projects in the preliminary FY 2026-2027 Highway Priority Program and how those projects will affect each area of the state.

All those interested are invited to attend the Road Show and will be afforded an opportunity to express their views.

Oral testimony may be supplemented by presenting important facts and documentation in writing. Written statements and comments should be handed to the committee conducting the hearing, or mailed to the following address, postmarked within 45 calendar days following the hearing:

Joint Transportation, Highways, & Public Works Committee
C/O LA DOTD (Section 45)
P.O. Box 94245
Baton Rouge, LA 70804-9245

To read more information about planned construction projects for District 08 in the preliminary FY 26-27 Highway Priority Program, go online to bit.ly/4ohVkUj.

---

My friend bought her daughter a car. Not a fancy one—no heated seats, no moonroof, no button that launches it into orbit. Just a good ol’ reliable vehicle to get her from dorm room to dining room and back again for those sacred college holidays like Thanksgiving, when students return home to eat, sleep, and pretend they still remember how to do laundry.

One day, the daughter had a flat tire. No big deal—she had AAA on speed dial, right next to “Mom” and “Pizza.” She called the flat tire hotline and waited for the cavalry. The AAA guy showed up, popped the trunk, checked under the mat, looked in the glove box, maybe even peeked under the seats. No spare tire. No jack. No tools. Just a lot of empty space and one very confused roadside technician.

Cue the anguished phone call to Mom: “Mom! There’s no spare tire! I’m stranded! The car is broken! The dealership sold us a lemon! I’m going to die here next to the Chick-fil-A!”

Now, I know this mom. She’s articulate. She’s passionate. She’s fluent in “colorful metaphors.” I’ve heard her use her big girl words before, and let’s just say she doesn’t need a thesaurus when she’s fired up.

She called the dealership and unleashed a verbal tsunami. Somewhere in the background, I imagine the receptionist ducking under the desk and whispering, “It’s her. The metaphor lady.”

Just as Mom was winding up for Round Two, the dealership guy calmly asked, “Ma’am, is your daughter’s car a 2023 model?”

“Yes,” she snapped.

“Well,” he said, “that car comes with run-flat tires. You can drive up to 50 miles on a flat. There’s no spare because you don’t need one.”

Silence.

Then a dial tone.

I don’t think Mom apologized. I think she just hung up and prayed the Holy Spirit would interpret her sighs.

Now, I’m grateful this wasn’t my story. But let’s be honest—I drive cars with spare tires. I think. I mean, I assume they’re in there somewhere. Probably under the mysterious carpet flap in the trunk next to the ancient granola bar and the rogue umbrella. Maybe I should check.

But this story made me laugh. It reminded me that sometimes we panic before we understand. We yell before we read the manual. We assume the worst before we remember that God might’ve already built in a solution.

And that brings me to Thanksgiving. It’s almost here. Can you believe how fast this year flew by? I blinked and it was Advent again. I’m thankful for so much—especially for you, dear reader. You’ve prayed for us, encouraged us, and shared stories that have become sermons, devotionals, and the occasional punchline.

I’m thankful for my church family, my neighbors, and the beautiful traffic chaos of life in Ruston, Louisiana. I’m thankful for the characters in my life—especially the ones who call me with flat tire emergencies and teach me new vocabulary.

So, this Thanksgiving, take a moment. Look at life through grateful eyes. Even the flat tires. Even the missing spares. Even the run-flat moments when you realize God’s grace lets you keep going, even when you feel deflated.

Thank you for being part of the ride. And if you’re wondering whether your car has a spare… maybe check before you call Mom.

---

BOM Bank had such a great time at the Sabine Chamber of Commerce Banquet! It’s always wonderful connecting with our community and celebrating local businesses. 

---

Hospice of Natchitoches and Many hosted its Seventh Annual “Lighting of Hospice” Candle Lighting and Memorial Service on Nov. 13, bringing families, staff, and community members together to honor the memory of loved ones who passed away within the last year.

The evening program included prayers, scripture readings, musical reflections, and a four-candle lighting ceremony symbolizing grief, courage, memory, and love. The service is held each year to provide comfort, reflection, and communal support for families navigating loss.

Administrator Dominick Metoyer welcomed attendees and reflected on the history and purpose of hospice care. He noted that hospice traces its origins to the 11th century, when it served as a place of rest for travelers, later evolving into a refuge for the sick and dying. He thanked families for allowing the hospice staff into their homes and emphasized the team-based, holistic approach used to support patients through the end of life.

“During the past 12 months, we’ve encountered many special patients and families,” Metoyer said. “You taught us a lot and made us better healthcare providers.”

Chaplain Mary Keele delivered the memorial message and scripture reading from 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18. She spoke about the natural process of mourning and the comfort scripture offers to those grieving. Keele emphasized that grief is both a human experience and an expression of love, while the hope of reunion offers spiritual reassurance.

Keele introduced the symbolic lighting of four candles, each representing a different aspect of grief and remembrance: the pain of loss, the courage to continue, cherished memories, and the enduring love left behind. She reminded families that their loved ones’ legacies live on through the light they left in the hearts of those who remain.

Social worker Kasey Sparish offered additional reflections, expressing gratitude for the trust families extend during some of life’s most difficult moments. She described the privilege of witnessing families’ stories, silence, and sorrow, calling it “one of the greatest acts of compassion.”

The program featured musical selections, a memorial video, and an introduction of the hospice staff by Director of Nursing Melissa Britten. Pastor Matthew Pagels led the invocation, and Chaplain Keele concluded the evening with closing remarks and a benediction.

This year marked the 25th anniversary of Hospice of Natchitoches and Many’s service to communities across Natchitoches, Sabine, Red River, Bienville, Rapides, DeSoto, Grant, and Winn parishes. Metoyer credited the organization’s longevity to the dedication of founders Sylvia and Ricky LaCour and the continued support of families throughout the region.

Families in attendance lit individual candles during the ceremony, honoring the lives and legacies of their loved ones. The event provided a peaceful space for remembrance, reflection, and shared hope.

---

In the summer of 2021, a new neighbor moved into what had been a peaceful mobile home park in Coon Rapids, Minnesota, a suburb just north of Minneapolis. Until then, the residents of the mobile home park held regular barbecues and other outdoor gatherings when the cold Minnesota weather allowed. Their kids played outside and walked to and from the bus stop without the slightest hint of hesitation. The trailer park residents got along well with each other. That all changed when the new neighbor moved in.

The new neighbor was a bully who victimized the residents of the mobile home park. The bully chased them, taunted them, and sometimes attacked them. The residents were unable to relax even when they were inside their own homes because the bully peaked through their windows and made sounds that they said became terrifying to them. One day, 41-year-old Rachael Gross was carrying her groceries from her car to her home when the bully dropped down from her roof and knocked her to the ground. During the struggle that followed, the bully ripped her jacket before Rachael was able to escape into her house. Her groceries lay scattered on her front lawn. The bully even followed Rachael to the nearby nursing home where she worked and to her favorite local restaurant. Each time, Rachael rushed inside to safety. The bully always stopped just shy of following her in. During another attack, Rachael slung water from her water bottle onto the bully. The shock from the water gave her just enough time to get inside before the bully ran back toward her. After numerous attacks, Rachael and her neighbors began to carry sticks, brooms, golf clubs, and baseball bats anytime they went outside. Rachael and her neighbors called the authorities on several occasions, but the bully continued to terrorize the neighborhood. Because Rachael was most often the target of the bully, her neighbors began to suspect that she was somehow helping him despite her emphatic denials.

Rachael felt trapped. She said, “I’m pretty stressed out and pretty anxious all the time. I can’t even have peace. I’m so exhausted. I hope this gets a solution and somebody comes to help so I don’t have to deal with this anymore, and so that we can all have a peaceful summer with our kids and our grandkids and actually have a barbecue and just relax.” Summer turned into fall and there was no relief from the bully. Parents had to walk their kids to and from the bust stop armed with a variety of weapons. The kids used their backpacks as shields. The neighborhood cancelled all of their usual outside activities including trick-or-treating at Halloween. For two years, the residents of the trailer park lived in fear of the bully. In the fall of 2023, reports of the bullying ended. Rumors persist that someone in the mobile home park murdered the bully. Perhaps they were all involved in the murder conspiracy. Some of the rumors go as far as to say that there is no evidence to be found because the residents ate the bully during a Thanksgiving celebration. The new neighbor which plagued that mobile home park was a wild turkey. Happy Thanksgiving!

 

Sources:

1. Kirsten Mitchell, “‘This turkey has literally taken over our life’: Wild turkey terrorizing neighbors in Coon Rapids,” CBS News, January 21, 2023, accessed November 16, 2025, https://www.cbsnews.com/minnesota/news/wild-turkey-terrorizing-neighbors-in-coon-rapids/.

2. The Gazette (Cedar Rapids, Iowa), March 5, 2023, p.5M.

---

British archaeologist Howard Carter knelt before a newly uncovered doorway deep in the Valley of the Kings on November 26, 1922. With trembling hands, he peered through a small hole, held up a candle, and saw what he would later describe as “wonderful things.”

Moments earlier, Carter and his team had broken the seal to the tomb of Pharaoh Tutankhamun — a 3,000-year-old resting place untouched by grave robbers. Inside were chariots, gilded shrines, jewelry, and the solid gold coffin of the boy king.

Carter’s discovery, funded by British nobleman Lord Carnarvon, became an international sensation. Newspapers worldwide splashed photographs of glittering treasures and mysterious hieroglyphs, sparking “Egyptomania” across the West.

Beyond the headlines, the find transformed archaeology. Tutankhamun’s tomb offered an unprecedented glimpse into Egypt’s 18th Dynasty, revealing burial rituals, art, and craftsmanship of extraordinary sophistication.

The work of cataloging and preserving the artifacts took a decade. Even today, much of Carter’s meticulous documentation guides modern Egyptologists.

November 26, 1922, remains a defining date in archaeological history — the day the modern world reconnected with one of antiquity’s most famous rulers, and when “wonderful things” reignited humanity’s fascination with ancient Egypt.

---

none

Sabine Parish Journal publishes paid obituaries – unlimited words and a photo, as well as unlimited access – $95. Contact your funeral provider or npjnatla@gmail.com . Must be paid in advance of publication. (Notice of Deaths shown above are FREE of charge.)

You may email them to SPJContent@sabineparishjournal.com

---

Three outstanding students have been recognized as the 2025 Sabine Parish Students of the Year, representing excellence at the elementary, middle, and high school levels.

The Sabine Parish School District announced the honorees this week, celebrating their academic achievement, leadership, and involvement in school and community activities.

This year’s Students of the Year are:

Allie T., 12th Grade – Florien High School
Vivian C., 8th Grade – Many Junior High School
Audrey F., 5th Grade – Many Junior High School

The district congratulated the students for their hard work and dedication, noting that each recipient exemplifies the qualities the Student of the Year program aims to recognize.

The Students of the Year Program is a statewide initiative that honors top-performing students across Louisiana, with winners advancing to regional and potentially state-level consideration.

Sabine Parish officials offered their congratulations to the honorees and wished them success as they move forward in the competition.

---

The Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office has announced that 2025 property tax statements are now available online, with mailed statements expected to reach residents within the next week. Property owners have until December 31, 2025, to submit payments.

The sheriff’s office outlined several convenient ways for residents to pay their taxes:

Through the Sheriff’s Office website under Payments → View and Pay Taxes

Using the Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office mobile app

By phone at 318-256-9241 (option 1)

In person at the Civil Office, located at 400 S. Capitol St., Room 105 in Many

By returning the payment through the mail once the paper statement arrives

Accepted payment methods include cash, money orders, personal checks, and debit/credit cards.

Officials note that a service charge applies to debit and credit card transactions.

Residents choosing to mail their payments are reminded not to send cash and to include the payment remittance slip located at the bottom of the mailed tax statement.

Anyone with questions regarding their property taxes may contact the Civil Office Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. at 318-256-9241, option 1.

---

Dr. Virginia Burkett of Many was awarded the 2025 John Maddox Prize, an annual award established by Sense about Science, an international organization that promotes the public interest and sound science evidence, and the scientific journal “Nature.” The prize honors those who have shown courage in defending science and evidence-based policy, especially in the face of public hostility.

The award validates Burkett’s long career as a research scientist and recognizes “her significant body of work to improve understanding of the impact of climate change on ecosystems, and for her insistence that these impacts were appropriately and honestly represented,” according to journal “Nature.”

Burkett is former chief scientist for Climate and Land Use Change at the U.S. Geological Survey and former chair of the U.S. Global Change Research Program. She has authored roughly 100 scientific publications on wetlands, climate change and coastal systems. The Maddox Prize recognizes her defense of science focused on the impacts of climate change on ecosystems. She traveled to London to receive the award.

“Early in my career as a natural resource manager, I learned the value of science to support decision making,” Burkett said in her acceptance remarks. “I relied on science to manage threatened fish and wildlife populations and to guide coastal management decisions. Form those experiences I learned pretty quickly that when scientific findings collided with the financial interests of powerful corporations and politicians, scientific integrity could be threatened.”

Burkett earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Northwestern State University and a doctoral degree in forestry from Stephen F. Austin University. In addition to serving as chief of the Forest Ecology Branch of the U.S.G.S. National Wetlands Research Center in Lafayette, she was the first female in the United States to be appointed director of a state fish and wildlife department when she was appointed secretary of the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries in 1988.

Burkett has published extensively on the topics of global change and low-lying coastal zones. She was nominated by the U.S. government to be lead author on the United Nations’ Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Third and Fourth Assessment Reports (2001, 2007) and the IPCC Technical Paper on Water (2008). She was lead author of the 2001 and 2009 National Assessments of climate change impacts produced by the United States Global Change Research Program. She also served on over 70 committees, commissions, science panels and boards during her career. She was among the several hundred authors who coitributed to the IPCC reports that garnered the Nobel Peace Prize in 2007. She is a Scientist Emerita for the U.S.G.S.

Although she retired in in January 2025, she continues to work on research publications that she had already started. She also devotes time to her church and to her alma mater, Northwestern State.

“I spend a lot of time lecturing early career scientists and college students interested in ecology and natural resource management,” she said. “The most lasting impacts of my efforts are probably on young people. I hope that my work has inspired public awareness and understanding of the influence of human activities on coastal systems and the earth’s climate.”

Burkett donated the Maddox Prize monetary award to the Climate Science Legal Defense Fund and the IPCC Scholarship Fund to benefit young scientists.

Burkett and her husband Don Burkett, also a graduate of Northwestern State, were inducted in the NSU’s Long Purple Line, the alumni hall of distinction, in 2011.

Dr. Virginia Burkett:

Dr. Virginia Burkett traveled to London to accept the John Maddox Prize, which honors those who have shown courage in defending science and evidence-based policy

---

NATCHITOCHES – Shae’Aunna Johnson of Many has been selected as state president of the Louisiana Association of Future Educators (LAFE) and Educators Rising Louisiana for the 2025-26 academic year.

Johnson is a freshman at Northwestern State University majoring in early childhood education grades PreK-3. She is also involved with TRIO and the Archery Club.

“When I was four, I said I wanted to be a teacher and that dream never changed,” Johnson said. “Working as a Pre-K paraprofessional has strengthened my passion for early childhood education and shown me the power of small victories in the classroom. Having my own educational hardships has taught me resilience and empathy, reminding me that every challenge can become a source of strength.”

Dr. Kristen Authement, coordinator for NSU’s School of Education Educators Rising organization, said that although Johnson is a recent active member, she has already made a positive impact through thoughtful contributions at chapter meetings.

“I am thrilled about the leadership role she will take on as the new president of the Louisiana Association of Future Educators and Educators Rising Louisiana. I have no doubt that she will excel in this position, and we are proud to have her representing our NSU chapter,” Authement said.

Aimee Barber, state coordinator of LAFE and Educators Rising, said Johnson’s “leadership, passion for education and commitment to making a difference” stood out in her application and that Johnson “will help lead Louisiana’s student movement to elevate the teaching profession and inspire future educators across our state.”

“As President of LAFE and Louisiana Educators Rising, my goal is to inspire future educators to lead with compassion, create safe spaces for students, and believe in the lasting impact of their work.” Johnson said.

Information on LAFE is available at https://www.lae.org. You can follow NSU’s chapter of Educators Rising on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/nsula.edrising/. Information on NSU’s School of Education is available at http://www.nsu.la/SoE.

---

BOM Bank proudly made a donation to the Sabine Parish School Board Universal Preschool Program! This early childhood education program helps children and families in the community gain access to the high-quality childcare and education they deserve. 

---

There’s no place quite like Ruston, LA for the holidays. With beautifully decorated downtown shops, streets lined with twinkling lights, and holiday cheer in the air, Ruston produces all those cozy feelings of being home for the holidays.

Ruston and Lincoln Parish offer a holiday season full of festive fun, making it the perfect time to make the drive and celebrate the holidays with your friends and family. From parades and performances to light displays and shopping events, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this holiday season.

Thursday, November 20, kick start the holiday season in the heart of Ruston. Holiday Open House & Kickoff to Christmas invites you to shop and stroll downtown’s special promotions, get your pictures with Santa, and see the downtown tree lighting.
While you’re around for Kickoff to Christmas, stroll Ruston’s quarterly Art Ramble happening 5:30pm-8:30pm. Local artists will be displaying and selling artwork and curated creations, perfect for finding your loved ones that one-of-a kind gift.

Thursday, December 4, Ruston’s Annual Christmas Parade will hit the streets. This parade fills Ruston with festive floats and plenty of Christmas cheer. Bring your blanket, grab a warm drink from a local coffee shop, and enjoy one of the merriest events of the season.

December 4-7, experience the timeless story of A Christmas Carol brought to life at the Dixie Center for the Arts. Ruston Community Theatre brings you Ebnezer Scrooge, the three Spirits of Christmas, and musical adaptations by Alan Menken and lyrics by Lynee Ahres.

Lincoln Lights Up the Pines is a Ruston holiday staple and a can’t miss event. Pack up the whole family and come experience Ruston’s only drive-thru Christmas light display at the beautiful Lincoln Parish Park happening December 4-6 and 11-13. Enjoy twinkling lights, holiday scenes, and festive decor all from the warmth of your vehicle as you take in the glow of the season.

December 5-7 is a big weekend in Ruston, LA and full of holiday adventures. You can shop Big Creek Trade Days on December 5-7, where you’ll find handmade jewelry, accessories, furniture, antiques, outdoor items, and more to help you knock out your holiday shopping list. December 6, visit the OWL Center for their Christmas on the Farm. This holiday event brings you pony rides, a petting zoo, a bouncy house, crafts, pictures with Santa, rock wall, zip line, games, and so much more. Also on December 6, you can visit downtown Choudrant for Christmas in the Village featuring a parade, bounce houses, cookies with Santa, a movie in the park, and more.

On December 12, the Dixie Center for the Arts presents A Christmas Blues. This benefit concert is full of holiday spirit and down-home blues bringing together some of the area’s most gifted musicians for an unforgettable night of music.

Downtown Ruston hosts the Christmas Cookie Crawl on December 14. Satisfy your sweet tooth this holiday season and sign up to get a delicious holiday cookie at each participating local business all while you shop the local, holiday deals and specials. While you’re in town, step into the holiday spirit with Holiday Tour of Homes, sponsored by Pine Hills Children’s Advocacy Center happening December 14. Tour beautifully decorated homes and gather festive inspiration for your own holiday decor.

Ruston has it all – late night shopping, downtown deals, cookie crawls, parades, live music, light displays, and of course, the annual holiday5K race. On December 18 the Ruston Rudolph 5k Race will take place at the Ruston Sports Complex. Grab your holiday running gear, strap on your Santa Claus hat, and get ready for the most festive race of the year.

End the holiday season on a high note. The Ruston Sports Complex brings you Christmas at the Complex on December 20. Spend a festive day with friends and family and enjoy cookies, hot chocolate, take your picture with Santa, watch a Christmas movie, and go ice skating.

This is just a quick look at the holiday adventures you can go on this year in Ruston, LA. Recurring events throughout December include artificial ice skating at the Ruston Sports Complex and the Ruston Farmers Market happening every Saturday – perfect for finding your holiday gifts and festive flavors all while enjoying some live music.

Come experience the holidays in Ruston, LA, where small town charm and big holiday spirit bring you back to those nostalgic feelings of Christmas when you were a kid.

To learn more about the holidays in Ruston, visit rustonlincoln.com/events/holidays/.

---

A Mass of Christian burial to celebrate the life of Maudie Lee (Procell) Sepulvado Woodruff, 94, was held at 10:00 a.m., Friday, November 14, 2025 at St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Ebarb with Father Joseph Madalla officiating. A burial followed the service in the church cemetery. A visitation was held on Thursday, November 13, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. with a rosary which began at 6:00 p.m. at Kilpatrick’s Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 9891 Texas Highway, Many, LA.

Maudie was born on March 30, 1931 to Sam Procell and Pollie (Leone) Procell, the ninth of eleven children. She passed away on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, at Sabine Retirement and Rehabilitation Center in Many, Louisiana surrounded by her family. Maudie was a devout Catholic and a lifelong member of St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Ebarb, Louisiana where she served as a member of the Altar Society and was devoted to the choir. In 1999, she was awarded the Diocesan Medal of Honor in recognition of her faithful service and many contributions to her Church. At the time of her death, she was the oldest member of St. Ann’s Church and the Ebarb Community.

In 1968, when Toledo Bend Lake “came in,” Maudie and her husband, Bert, built the first fishing camp on the north end of the lake- Sepulvado’s Landing. She continued to manage the business until she retired in 2018 at the age of 87.

Maudie is preceded in death by her parents, her ten brothers and sisters, her first husband, Bert Sepulvado (d.1972), her second husband, William E. Woodruff (d.1995), her daughter Anna Maudine (Dena) Fletcher (d.2012), and her son-in-law, Harold L. Stewart (d.2025).

Left to cherish her memory are her children, Mary Yvonne Busby (Ronald), Margaret Joy Stewart, Bert Raphael Sepulvado (Mona), Victor Lee Sepulvado (Lee), Reba Rose Jones (Randy), Monica Lynn Ebarb (Dale), Pollie Ann Brandon (Ronnie) and Violet Maria “Mia” Curtis (Chris); her twenty-two grandchildren, thirty-four great-grandchildren, six great-great-grandchildren, a host of nieces and nephews, as well as Joy Patrick Sepulvado (her other Joy) who was her friend, housekeeper and caretaker for the last twelve years.

Honoring her as pallbearers were her grandsons, Gabriel Stewart, Nathan Stewart, Matthew Stewart, John Stewart, Seth Busby, Russell Busby, David Sepuivado, Richard Sepulvado, Aaron Sepulvado, Cody Ebarb, Heath Brandon, Jarred Brandon, Sam Brandon, Hunter Curtis and Bert Fletcher.

A very special thank you to Superior Hospice, Shanna and Bailey, her caregivers, Claire, Katherine and Shanika for their professional and compassionate care shown to our mother as well as the staff at Sabine Retirement and Rehabilitation Center.

Services and care were provided to the family by Kilpatrick’s Rose-Neath Funeral Home in Many, Louisiana.

---

Funeral services for Albert “Dingy” Sepulvado, Sr., 79, will be held on Thursday, December 4, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Ann Catholic Church, 5272 Hwy 482, Noble, Louisiana. A burial will follow the service at St. Ann Catholic Cemetery. Officiating the service will be Father Joseph Madalla. A visitation will be held on Wednesday, December 3, 2025 from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 9891 Texas Hwy, Many, Louisiana.

Albert was born on June 22, 1946 to Tefilo Sepulvado and Selina Santos Sepulvado in Sabine Parish, Louisiana and passed away on Saturday, November 29, 2025 in Shreveport, Louisiana.

Albert could be found hunting or fishing when he wasn’t watching a basketball game or a good western. He was faithful to attend Mass on Sundays. He could also be found playing with his favorite dog, Bobo. But the true treasure in his life was time spent with family.

Albert is preceded in death by his parents, Tefilo and Selina Sepulvado; sisters, Henrietta Watson and Hazel Gore; brothers, Curtis Sepulvado, Clayton Sepulvado, T. Jr. Sepulvado, Tony Sepulvado, and Clyde Sepulvado, Sr. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Janis Sepulvado of Noble, Louisiana; sons, Albert “Butch” Sepulvado of Noble, Louisiana, Anthony “Thorns” Sepulvado and wife, Cheryl, of Bossier City, Louisiana, Brett “Short Dog” Sepulvado of Zwolle, Louisiana, and Kenneth “Nuna” Sepulvado and wife, April, of Kentwood, Louisiana; daughters, Rachael Sepulvado and husband, James, of Mansfield, Louisiana, Ann Marie Sepulvado and husband, Cliff, of Huntington, Texas, and Ella Laroux and husband, Mike, of Zwolle, Louisiana; brother, Manuel “Buster” Sepulvado of Greenwood, Louisiana; 16 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.

Honoring Albert as pallbearers will be James Paddie, Cliff Faires, Brandon Sepulvado, Wayne Sepulvado, Clint Sepulvado, and Chester “Goob” Sepulvado. Serving as honorary pallbearers will be Dasan Vines, Landen Vines, Hunter Vines, and Selina Vines.

The family would like to thank everyone for their thoughts, prayers, and support; as well as, Christus Highland Hospital in Shreveport, Louisiana and their staff.

Services and care were provided to the family by Kilpatrick’s Rose-Neath Funeral Home in Many, Louisiana.

---

Martin Dale Lingle, known simply as “Marty” to everyone that had the pleasure of knowing him, passed away at the age of 92 peacefully on Tuesday, November 11, 2025 in Alexandria, LA.

Marty was a man whose heart was renewed through faith, which gave him a source of deep peace. He was a natural conversationalist – someone who could talk with anyone, anywhere, about anything. One of Marty’s greatest joys was fishing. In earlier years, he never missed an opportunity to cast a line. He’d go with anyone, anytime. If you had a rod and a free afternoon, Marty was ready to go.

Marty was born on April 10, 1933 to Emory Lingle and Minnie Martin Lingle in Poolville, Texas. He was proceeded in death by his wife, Bennie Sue Lingle; parents, Emory and Minnie Lingle. He is survived by his sons, Dwayne Lingle and wife, Janice, of Grand Cane, Louisiana and Micheal Lingle and wife, Melissa, of Denham Springs, Louisiana; daughter, Linda Lingle of Odessa, Texas; step sons, Ronald Dillard and wife, Phyllis, of Tennessee and Kenneth Dillard and wife, Terry, of Stonewall, Louisiana; step daughter, Deborah Grabener and husband, Bruce, of Hemphill, Texas; 10 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren; and a host of step grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and friends.

Funeral services for Marty were held on Saturday, November 15, 2025 at 1:00 pm at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 9891 Texas Hwy, Many, Louisiana. A burial followed at Fort Jesup Cemetery in Many, Louisiana. A visitation was held on Saturday, November 15, 2025 from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm at Rose-Neath Funeral Home. Officiated by Brother Jimmy Speight.

Honoring Marty as pallbearers will be Kurt Sepulvado, James Grizzle, Randy Byrd, Matthew Lingle, Efrain Melendez, and John Taylor.

Services and care were provided to the family by Kilpatrick’s Rose-Neath Funeral Home.

---

Preachers read. I read because I’m not very smart—and because I’m terrified of being boring. Let’s be honest: some sermons are so dull they could be used as sleep aids. I’ve heard paint dry with more enthusiasm. Sorry, colleagues, but we might be the reason folks choose brunch over the Body of Christ. Jesus told stories that made people lean in, not nod off. So, I read, hunt, and scavenge for stories that make the Gospel feel like a live wire, not a library whisper.

The other day, I went trolling for a story in one of my Bible commentaries. I glanced at my shelf and noticed something odd. One of the volumes looked… moist. Not “anointed” moist. Just suspiciously soggy. The one next to it looked like it had been baptized by a leaky roof. I thought, “Well, that’s interesting. Maybe the Holy Spirit is hydrating my theology.”

I pulled the books down and—surprise!—termites. Not just a few. A full-blown theological buffet. These bugs had eaten the entire guts out of two volumes. I mean, they didn’t just nibble—they feasted. Paper to termites is what McDonald’s fries are to me: irresistible, regrettable, and always followed by a need for repentance.

My preacher friends had a field day. One said, “Well, at least they were feasting on the Word.” Another asked, “Were they Old Testament termites? Maybe they skipped the New Testament because they couldn’t handle grace.” Someone else suggested I start a new ministry: Exegesis for Insects.

The exterminator came out, gave me a price, and looked at me like I was the weirdest theologian he’d ever met. I’ve got carpentry repairs to make, commentaries to replace, and a new sermon illustration that’s practically begging for a pulpit.

But here’s the real question: Do you have termites? Not cellulose kind. I mean the soul-chewers. Anger, bitterness, jealousy, revenge, those little varmints that sneak in through the cracks of your spirit and start munching on your joy. They don’t knock. They just move in, set up a recliner in the lobby of your heart, and start gnawing away like it’s a buffet.

So, what’s the treatment? Grace. Not the kind you say before meals. The kind that fumigates your soul. The kind that kicks out the termites and replaces them with peace, purpose, and maybe a little laughter.

Go to church on Sunday. Your preacher’s been reading all week, dodging termites, and praying for a story that’ll wake you up, shake you up, and maybe even make you laugh while Jesus does His deep work.

---