The Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office is urging teenagers and their families to understand Louisiana’s sexting laws and the potentially serious consequences of creating, possessing or sharing indecent images involving minors.

Sheriff Aaron Mitchell and Chief Deputy Brad Walker shared the warning as part of an effort to educate young people about online safety and Louisiana Revised Statute 14:81.1.1.

According to information provided by the Sheriff’s Office, the law applies to certain conduct involving people under 17. Officials emphasized that a person under 17 can commit an offense by knowingly and voluntarily transmitting an indecent visual depiction of himself or herself.

The law also addresses knowingly possessing or transmitting an indecent image that was sent by another person under 17. The Sheriff’s Office cautioned teens that receiving an image and then keeping, sending or sharing it can have legal consequences.

Authorities also highlighted concerns surrounding AI-generated images. The law addresses certain AI-created images or videos depicting another person as nude or undergoing sexual undress when the material is knowingly possessed, sold or maliciously distributed with the intent to coerce, harass or intimidate that person.

According to the Sheriff’s Office, violations of the statute can be misdemeanors in certain circumstances. A first offense can carry up to six months in jail and/or a fine of up to $500, with greater penalties possible for subsequent offenses as provided by law.

Beyond potential criminal penalties, officials warned that once an intimate image is shared, controlling where it goes can become extremely difficult. Images can be saved, screenshot, forwarded, altered or posted online, and deleting the original does not necessarily eliminate other copies.

The Sheriff’s Office is encouraging parents, guardians and educators to continue having open conversations with young people about online safety, responsible behavior and the consequences associated with sexting.

Teens who are being pressured to send an image, threatened with an existing image, targeted by unauthorized sharing or victimized through AI-generated sexual imagery are encouraged to immediately contact a trusted adult, school official or law enforcement.

Officials said reporting an incident quickly can give investigators a better opportunity to intervene before the material spreads further.

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Florien High School juniors and seniors recently had an opportunity to explore options for life after graduation while attending the District College Fair.

During the event, students met with college recruiters, asked questions and learned more about educational and career opportunities available following high school.

The college fair provided students with an opportunity to gather information as they begin making decisions about their futures, including potential colleges, programs of study and career paths.

Florien High School thanked the Sabine Parish School Board and Shelly Rivers for organizing and providing the event for students.

School officials said the time and effort invested in the college fair gave students an important opportunity to explore their options and begin planning for their futures.

“The future is bright for our Blackcats,” the school shared while recognizing its junior and senior students.

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SABINE PARISH, La. — Two people were safely rescued Saturday afternoon after their tritoon boat began sinking on Toledo Bend Lake, according to the Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office.

Sheriff Aaron Mitchell said the sinking vessel was reported at approximately 3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19, near the mouth of San Miguel on Toledo Bend.

The Sabine Parish Sheriff Marine Unit responded to the scene and rescued both occupants from the boat. Deputies then towed the vessel safely back to shore.

No injuries were reported in the incident.

Following the rescue, Mitchell reminded residents and visitors using Toledo Bend Lake to make sure their boats are equipped with all necessary and legally required safety equipment before heading onto the water.

The Sheriff’s Office did not report what caused the tritoon to begin sinking.

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The Zwolle Tamale Fiesta will celebrate its 50th anniversary with four days of festivities beginning Thursday, Oct. 8, and continuing through Sunday, Oct. 11, with live music, carnival rides, contests, a parade, fireworks and other activities planned.

The celebration begins Thursday, Oct. 8, with Senior Citizen Day from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Vendors will open at 10 a.m., followed by bingo at 10:15 a.m., lunch at 11:30 a.m., special recognition at noon and door prizes at 12:30 p.m.

Festival gates will open at 4 p.m. Thursday with $2 admission. The Kick-Off Supper will be held from 6 to 9 p.m., with opening ceremonies beginning at 6 p.m. The program will include the presentation of Fiesta Royalty, recognition of dignitaries, special guest entertainment and an in memoriam recognition of past board members.

Studio B Dance Company will present a 50th anniversary special at 6:30 p.m., followed by special entertainment at 7 p.m. Next of Kin Band will perform at 7:30 p.m., and the evening will conclude with 50th anniversary fireworks at 8:45 p.m.

Activities continue Friday, Oct. 9, with Third Grade Educational Day from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Festival gates will open at 4 p.m. with $5 admission.

Friday’s entertainment includes Dillion Etheridge and band from 4 to 5:15 p.m., followed by Henry Reggans & the Louisiana Side Men from 5:30 to 6:45 p.m. A 50th Anniversary Dance Contest will be held from 6:50 to 8 p.m., followed by Horace Trahan and the Ossun Express from 8 to 11 p.m.

The celebration continues early Saturday, Oct. 10, with registration for the one-mile run and 5K beginning at 7 a.m. The 5K starts at 8 a.m., when festival gates will also open. Saturday admission is $10.

The annual parade begins at 10 a.m. A Treasure Hunt offering a $500 savings bond prize will also be held, with contest registration opening at the main stage.

Midwest Rides and concessions open at 11 a.m. The Toledo Cruisers Car Club Car Show is scheduled from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Main stage activities around midday will include the Tamale Eating Contest, Spanish Costume Contest, arm wrestling competition and tamale judging.

The Mud Bog begins at 2 p.m. Coolers will be allowed in the Mud Bog grounds only for a $25 fee, while Mud Bog tent spaces will be available for $40.

Saturday’s live music lineup includes Mark Reeves and Twisted X Band from 2 to 3:15 p.m., Kyle Richardson and The Sabine Sound from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m., Bad Moon Rising from 5 to 6:30 p.m., One Trick Pony from 6:45 to 8 p.m. and Nik-L Beer from 8:30 to 11:30 p.m.

The 50th anniversary Zwolle Tamale Fiesta will feature tamales, carnival rides, concessions, vendors, souvenirs and entertainment throughout the celebration. Additional festival information is available through the official Zwolle Tamale Fiesta website.

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SABINE PARISH, La. — Sabine Parish can expect several more days of hot and mostly dry weather before a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms returns early next week, according to the National Weather Service.

Wednesday will be sunny and hot with a high near 95 degrees. Northeast winds will range from 5 to 10 mph. Wednesday night will be mostly clear with a low around 67. Northeast winds around 5 mph will become calm during the evening.

Thursday will be mostly sunny with a high near 91. Winds will be calm before becoming northeast around 5 mph during the afternoon. Thursday night will be partly cloudy with a low around 64.

Cloud cover will increase somewhat heading into Friday, with partly sunny skies and a high near 92. Friday night will be mostly cloudy with a low around 65.

Saturday will be partly sunny with a high near 94, followed by mostly cloudy skies Saturday night and a low around 67.

Mostly sunny skies return Sunday, with a high near 94. Sunday night will be partly cloudy with a low around 68.

The first rain chances in the forecast arrive Monday, when there will be a 20% chance of showers and thunderstorms. Otherwise, conditions will remain mostly sunny with a high near 94 degrees.

Overall, the National Weather Service forecast calls for hot and dry conditions through the weekend, with only a slight chance of rain returning Monday.

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Cleco is warning residential and business customers to remain vigilant against utility scams involving callers, emails or text messages designed to obtain money or sensitive personal information.

Utility scammers often pose as representatives of legitimate utility companies and attempt to pressure customers into making an immediate payment. Other scams may involve phishing emails or text messages containing fraudulent requests for account or personal information.

Cleco emphasized that the company will never call a customer demanding immediate payment or threaten to immediately disconnect electric service.

Customers who receive a suspicious call or request are advised to end the conversation immediately rather than provide payment, account information or other sensitive information.

Suspected scams should be reported to local law enforcement and to Cleco by calling 1-800-622-6537.

Customers are encouraged to remain cautious of unexpected communications involving their utility accounts, particularly those that use threats or demands for immediate payment to create a sense of urgency.

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MANY – After the Many football got itself on the right track with a Week 3 homecoming win against East Beauregard, the Tigers will attempt to capture their first road victory of the season.

Many (1-2) heads to Catholic Point Coupee (2-1), a Class 1A squad that’s developed a reputation for making deep playoff runs in Division IV Select.

Head coach Tyler Hassell has some familiarity with the Hornets as he squared off with Catholic as an assistant coach on Red River’s staff two years ago.

Catholic-Pointe Coupee won both games against Red River the past two seasons, a 26-24 nailbiter in 2025 and a more comfortable 26-6 outing in 2024.

Many fans shouldn’t have much trouble finding the New Roads school – just take the familiar Highway 190 like you’re going to the Superdome and stop for Billy’s or Kartchner’s on the way. While perhaps not the most direct route, we know the boudin balls and links are worth it.

The Superdome won’t be the foremost thing on Many’s minds this season as the Tigers look to bring a younger team along.
But a road win like this could certainly bring back the warm and fuzzy feeling before the Tigers welcome a Class 4A Leesville bunch that has a lot of juice.

The Hornets are certainly not to be overlooked, though. They slugged it out with Class 3A Marksville in a 34-14 loss before recording wins over accomplished programs Vermilion Catholic (34-8) and Episcopal (25-17).

While Vermilion is down this season, they did win the 2024 state title in Division IV Non-Select while Episcopal is a perennial playoff team with a history of deep runs.

Many’s rushing attack came to life this past week as the Tigers leaned on stud Daniel Thomas, who rushed for 238 yards on 25 carries and three touchdowns.

All three of those scores came in the first half to overwhelm East Beauregard, but Thomas will surely have 2-3 defenders locked solely on him presnap by a Pointe Coupee unit that’s one of the better units in its class.

The Tigers will need JJ Stills and others to be productive in the run game behind an offensive line that can create room while freshman quarterback Luke McCarty continues to progress in his maiden voyage.

Many’s defense forced four East Beauregard turnovers, and points scored or set up by the defense or special teams will come in handy.

The Tigers also have to avoid the costly turnover (five interceptions including multiple pick sixes this season).

If Many can avoid falling in an early hole and settle itself on the road, evening its record at 2-2 will be a big step in its positioning as district play inches closer.

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Sabine Parish Journal publishes paid obituaries – unlimited words and a photo, as well as unlimited access.

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The Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office was among several law enforcement agencies involved in a federal investigation that resulted in a Leesville man receiving more than 14 years in federal prison for his role in a large-scale methamphetamine distribution conspiracy.

According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana, Earl Thompson, also known as “Nook,” 45, of Leesville, was sentenced Sept. 1 by U.S. District Judge Robert R. Summerhays to 174 months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release. Thompson previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.

Federal prosecutors said the case stemmed from an investigation launched in 2024 by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies into a multi-parish drug trafficking organization operating throughout Vernon Parish and Central Louisiana.

Eleven defendants were indicted Jan. 21, 2026, in connection with a network authorities said was responsible for distributing large quantities of methamphetamine, fentanyl and cocaine.

Court documents showed Thompson conspired with 12 others between July 11 and Nov. 2, 2025, to obtain distribution-level quantities of methamphetamine for resale in and around Vernon Parish. Investigators determined that one of Thompson’s co-conspirators delivered 10 pounds of methamphetamine to him on July 25, 2025. Thompson later admitted the methamphetamine involved in the conspiracy was intended for distribution, according to federal prosecutors.

“Traffickers of methamphetamine and fentanyl have no place in our society, and justice demands punishment that reflects their total disregard of the lives, the families, and the communities that they devastate,” U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller said.

The Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office participated in the investigation along with the Vernon, Rapides and Grant parish sheriff’s offices, Louisiana State Police, FBI, Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Forest Service and U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Division.

The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney LaDonte A. Murphy with assistance from Legal Assistant Christy Angelle.
Federal officials announced the sentencing Friday, Sept. 11. The prosecution was conducted as part of the Homeland Security Task Force initiative, an interagency effort targeting criminal organizations and trafficking networks.

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The parish-wide burn ban in Sabine Parish has been extended as officials say recent rainfall has not been sufficient to eliminate dangerous fire conditions.

The Sabine Parish Police Jury issued an extension Sunday, Sept. 14, continuing the burn ban for 30 days or until conditions improve. The order also continues the parish’s State of Emergency related to the ongoing fire danger.

Under the extended ban, all outdoor burning is prohibited, including the burning of garbage, grass, leaves and brush.

Central Sabine Fire Department said that while recent rainfall has provided some relief from the dry conditions, the parish has not received enough precipitation to safely lift the restrictions.

Low relative humidity and windy conditions continue to increase the potential for fires to ignite and spread rapidly, according to the department.

“We understand the recent rain may make conditions appear safer, but the fire danger remains a serious concern,” Central Sabine Fire Department stated.

Officials are asking residents to refrain from all outdoor burning while the ban remains in effect. Residents who observe smoke or a fire are also encouraged to report it promptly.

The burn ban extension was issued by Sabine Parish Police Jury President Ronny Bison and Sabine Parish Office of Emergency Preparedness Director Scott Gowen.

Officials said cooperation from the public can help prevent fires and protect residents, property and firefighters throughout Sabine Parish.

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SABINE PARISH, La. — Hot and mostly dry conditions will continue across Sabine Parish through the weekend, with temperatures reaching the mid-90s each afternoon before rain chances increase early next week, according to the National Weather Service.

Wednesday will begin with patchy fog before 9 a.m. before skies become mostly sunny. Temperatures are expected to climb to around 96 degrees, with heat index values reaching as high as 103 degrees. Winds will be calm before becoming easterly at around 5 mph. Wednesday night will be partly cloudy with a low near 72, with patchy fog possible after 5 a.m.

Patchy fog could linger into early Thursday morning before 7 a.m. Otherwise, the day will be sunny and hot with a high near 96 degrees. Thursday night will be mostly clear with a low around 69.

Friday will remain sunny and hot with a high near 96 degrees, followed by mostly clear skies Friday night and a low around 70.

Similar conditions are expected Saturday, with sunny skies and another high near 96 degrees. Saturday night will be mostly clear with a low around 71.

A slight chance of rain returns Sunday, when there will be a 20% chance of showers and thunderstorms. Otherwise, skies will be mostly sunny with a high near 95. Sunday night will be partly cloudy with a low around 71.

By Monday, the chance of showers and thunderstorms increases to 40%. Temperatures will be slightly cooler, with a high near 92 under mostly sunny skies.

Residents should continue taking precautions during the prolonged stretch of hot weather, particularly during the afternoon hours.

Staying hydrated, limiting strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day and checking on those especially vulnerable to heat are encouraged.

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BOM Bank was proud to donate backpacks to the Pendleton Assembly of God Back to School Bash! We’re excited to help local students start the new school year feeling prepared, confident, and ready to learn. A big thank-you to everyone helping make this event a special one for local families. BOM is proud to support our communities and the students who make them stronger!

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Steel Magnolias will return to the big screen at the Many Community Center later this month as part of a special tribute to Dolly Parton.

The film will be shown Saturday, Sept. 26, at 6 p.m., marking seven years since the community previously gathered for the movie.

Admission to the screening will be free, but those attending are encouraged to make a donation at the theater to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, a program that provides free books to young children.

The Imagination Library has distributed more than 300 million free books to children around the world, helping promote early childhood literacy and a love of reading.

The 1989 film Steel Magnolias, set in Louisiana, features an ensemble cast that includes Parton and has remained a favorite among audiences for decades.

Community members are encouraged to mark their calendars and attend the Sept. 26 screening while supporting a program that continues Parton’s commitment to childhood literacy.

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MANY – While Many did replace a slew of veteran players this season, it’s safe to say nobody expected the Tigers to be 0-2 heading into this week’s Homecoming matchup against East Beauregard.

Maybe the 0-2 record isn’t the most shocking part – the Tigers lost a late lead at Class 1A power Logansport before a trip down to a Class 3A DeRidder squad that had one of its best performances in a couple years.

Many has always leaned on the run, but the Tigers are making costly mistakes in the passing game that’s changing the tenor of those games.

Freshman Lucas McCarty will undoubtedly get better as he gets more varsity snaps under his belt, learning which throws are advisable and which ones are not.

DeRidder used two interceptions returned for touchdowns in its building of a 35-0 lead before Many steadied in the 49-20 loss.

Which sets up a Week 3 matchup with an East Beauregard team that, based on recent seasons, should be a cake walk.

But not so fast.

The Trojans are 2-0 after blasting Merryville (30-9) and Northwood-Lena (48-8). Those opponents aren’t knocking anyone’s socks off, but for a program that entered the season with just three combined wins over the past two seasons, it’s a huge step back to the five and six wins East Beauregard collected in 2022 and 2023.

Many running back Daniel Thomas can still shoulder the load with 310 rushing yards and three touchdowns through the first two games.

But the Tigers learned something else valuable against DeRidder – they have backs capable of breaking big runs when defenses key on Thomas.

Keelan Maxie and Jayrious Stills combined for 171 yards on just 13 carries, each scoring a touchdown.

Thomas rushed for a yeoman’s 90 yards on 20 touches also with a score.

Many’s offensive line proved it can still create running room when defenses know the Tigers are going to run given the lack of a passing game to date.

Now Many must balance complementary football into the equation to help its defense, which has allowed more than 40 points in each of its first two games (albeit with two touchdowns from opposing defenses).

The Tigers defense intercepted Logansport quarterback Kollin Magee three times and are capable of forcing turnovers themselves to set up short fields for Many’s offense.

Many has fallen behind by two touchdowns in the first half of its first two games, climbing out of that hole against Logansport while DeRidder was never seriously threatened with a Many comeback.

A better start will be key if Many is to avoid an 0-3 start with difficult contests at Catholic-Pointe Coupee and against Leesville coming up.

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The Sabine Parish Fair & Rodeo will return this month with several days of livestock shows, carnival rides, rodeo action, youth competitions, entertainment and family activities planned in Many.

The 2026 fair is scheduled for Sept. 23-26 with the theme, “Red, White, Blue Ribbons: Celebrating America’s Best.” This year’s message encourages residents to support local youth, the community and longstanding fair traditions with the slogan, “Fair Days & Rodeo Nights Make The Best Memories.”

Activities will actually begin ahead of the official fair dates. Arts and crafts and 4-H club entries will be accepted at the Exhibit Building from 3:30 to 5:45 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18, and again from 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 19. Exhibit judging will take place Sunday and Monday, Sept. 20-21, with the building closed to the public during judging.

The Open and Youth 5D Barrel Racing competition is scheduled from 6 to 10 p.m. Monday, Sept. 21, at the Benton Johnson Rodeo Arena, located at 115 Fairgrounds Road in Many.

The fair officially gets underway Wednesday, Sept. 23, with Community, Family & Friends Day. The Midwest Rides Carnival will operate from 6 to 10 p.m., while DNA-Audio DJ will provide live nightly entertainment at the pavilion. There will be no gate admission Wednesday evening.

Activities continue Thursday, Sept. 24, beginning with Pre-K Day and the opening of exhibits at 9 a.m. Poultry will arrive at 2 p.m., followed by the Rabbit Show at 6 p.m. The carnival opens at 6 p.m., and the Hometown Youth Rodeo begins at 7 p.m. at the

Benton Johnson Rodeo Arena. Gate admission will be $5 from 6 to 10 p.m.

Friday, Sept. 25, will be designated as the 4-H and FFA Educational Fair Day, with no school. The carnival opens at 10 a.m., followed by the Dog & Pet Show at 9 a.m., Song & Yell and Talent Show at 12:30 p.m., and poultry judging at 3 p.m. There will be no gate admission from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Friday night activities begin at 6 p.m. with the carnival and live DJ entertainment. The LRCA J2 Rodeo begins at 7:30 p.m. at the Benton Johnson Rodeo Arena. Gate admission will be $5 from 6 to 10 p.m.

The festivities culminate Saturday, Sept. 26, with the Sabine Fair & Rodeo Parade at 1 p.m. Participants will line up at noon at St. Joseph Church in Many. A Visiting Queens Social will follow the parade at the fairgrounds pavilion.

Livestock events Saturday include the Cattle Show at 4 p.m. and the Sheep, Pigs & Goats Show at 5:30 p.m. The carnival and nightly entertainment will run from 6 to 10 p.m. The Parade of Champions is scheduled for 7:15 p.m., followed by the LRCA J2 Rodeo at 7:30 p.m. Gate admission Saturday evening will be $5.

Organizers are encouraging families throughout Sabine Parish and the surrounding area to attend and support the young people participating in this year’s livestock shows, competitions and other fair activities.

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Deborah Migues Reavis
June 14, 1952 — September 8, 2026
Visitation: Saturday September 19 at 11:00 am at Calvary Baptist Church
Service: Saturday September 19 at 12:00 pm at Calvary Baptist Church

Sabine Parish Journal publishes paid obituaries – unlimited words and a photo, as well as unlimited access.

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NATCHITOCHES – Northwestern State University and the Many Police Department will present a two-day course that will address two different investigations: child endangerment and asset forfeiture. The course would be of interest to anyone in law enforcement invested in protecting children, building stronger communities and taking criminals off the streets.

The course will take place in Alost Hall on the NSU campus beginning at 8 a.m. Monday, Sept. 28 and Tuesday, Sept. 29, a total of 15 hours of training. The cost is $349.

The course will be led by an associate of Yellowstone Narcotics, founded by Cameron Pavlicek who is a former Eastern Montana Drug Task Force Commander and former president of the Montana Narcotics Officers Association. All instructors are POST accredited and currently working in their area of expertise.

Register at yellowstonenarcotics.com.

This course is facilitated by NSU’s Criminal Justice program and supported by NSU’s Office of Economic Development and University Advancement and Many Police Department.

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The Town of Many recently celebrated two longtime employees whose careers represent a combined 50 years of service to the community.

An awards luncheon was held to recognize Many Police Department Shift Commander Stanley Cook, who marked 20 years of service, and Jeremy Koss, who celebrated 30 years of service with the Town of Many.

During the luncheon, both men were presented with awards recognizing their years of dedication and commitment to serving the citizens of Many.

Cook’s 20-year career with the Many Police Department represents two decades of service in local law enforcement, while Koss reached the significant milestone of 30 years working for the Town of Many.

Town officials praised both employees, noting that reaching 20 and 30 years of service reflects years of hard work, loyalty and commitment to the community.

“Thank you for your many years of faithful service to the Town of Many,” town officials shared. “We are truly grateful for all that you have contributed over the years.”

The luncheon also included a meal provided by Shannon’s Butcher Block, cookies prepared by Alesha Callais Westfall and ice cream provided by Suzanne Berry.

Together, Cook and Koss have devoted half a century to serving Many and its residents, giving the community an opportunity to celebrate two significant career milestones and recognize the contributions both have made over the years.

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The Sabine Animal Shelter is continuing its effort to reduce pet overpopulation by offering a limited number of free spay and neuter vouchers to Sabine Parish residents each month.

The program opens on the first day of every month at 8 a.m., with assistance available to the first 25 qualifying callers.

Residents seeking a voucher should call 318-315-2874 beginning at 8 a.m. on the first of the month. The shelter asks residents not to call before the designated time.

Callers should continue trying until they reach the answering service and then leave their name, telephone number and a brief message explaining what type of pet needs to be spayed or neutered. The first 25 callers will receive a return call to provide additional information.

For those selected, the Sabine Animal Shelter will cover 100% of the cost of the spay or neuter procedure, a rabies vaccination and a microchip.

The program is available only to Sabine Parish residents.

Shelter officials emphasized that spaying and neutering pets is an important part of controlling animal overpopulation and reducing the number of unwanted animals entering shelters.

Because only 25 vouchers are available each month, residents interested in participating are encouraged to mark their calendars and be prepared to call promptly when the program opens.

Voucher Program Details: The program opens at 8 a.m. on the first day of every month. Call 318-315-2874. The first 25 callers selected receive the spay/neuter procedure, rabies vaccination and microchip at no cost.

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SABINE PARISH, La. — Warm September weather will continue across Sabine Parish through the weekend, with afternoon highs reaching the low to mid-90s and scattered chances for showers and thunderstorms, according to the National Weather Service.

Wednesday will be mostly sunny with a high near 94 degrees. A 20% chance of showers and thunderstorms will develop after 1 p.m. Winds will remain calm. Wednesday night will be partly cloudy with a low around 72.

Thursday will remain mostly sunny with a high near 93 degrees. The chance for afternoon showers and thunderstorms increases slightly to 30% after 1 p.m. Thursday night will be partly cloudy with a low near 72.

Friday will bring another chance for showers, with thunderstorms also possible after 1 p.m. The chance of precipitation is 30%. Otherwise, skies will be mostly sunny with a high around 93 degrees. Friday night will be partly cloudy with a low near 73.

Conditions turn somewhat drier Saturday, with sunny skies and a high near 94 degrees. A 20% chance of showers and thunderstorms remains possible after 1 p.m. Saturday night will be mostly clear with a low around 73.

Sunday will be mostly sunny with a high near 94 degrees and a 30% chance of showers and thunderstorms. Sunday night will be partly cloudy as temperatures fall to around 72.

Overall, Sabine Parish can expect plenty of sunshine through the weekend, but residents with outdoor plans should remain prepared for the possibility of brief afternoon showers or thunderstorms each day.

With highs consistently reaching the 90s, those spending extended periods outdoors should continue to stay hydrated and take breaks from the heat when needed.

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Sabine Parish Schools is calling on local businesses to help encourage students to make school attendance a priority by supporting a program that rewards students for showing up and improving their attendance.

The school district is placing an increased emphasis on daily student attendance and is seeking community partners willing to provide incentives for students designated as “Attendance Champions,” as well as those who demonstrate improved attendance.

Businesses can participate by donating items such as treats, gift cards, snacks, lunches, toys or other special rewards that can be used to recognize students for their attendance efforts.

The initiative gives local businesses an opportunity to partner directly with Sabine Parish Schools while providing students with an extra incentive to attend school consistently.

District officials are encouraging businesses of all sizes to consider participating and helping recognize students who are making attendance a priority.

Businesses or individuals interested in becoming a sponsor can contact Kristy Brumley, Director of Student Services, by text at 318-554-8618 or by email at brumleyk@spsb.la.

Sponsors may also contact Jodi Cole, Attendance Improvement Specialist, by phone at 318-300-3445 or by email at colej@spsb.la.

Through the partnership, Sabine Parish Schools hopes to bring schools and the local business community together to celebrate students while reinforcing the importance of being in class each day.

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Many coach Tyler Hassell pointed out defense on third- and fourth-downs as an area of opportunity coming out of the jamboree.

That facet of the game surfaced in a big way in a 44-38 loss to Logansport to open the season.

It will certainly be a focus this week as Many (0-1) prepares to travel to Class 3A DeRidder (0-1) on a short week for a Thursday game.

Many has to bounce back emotionally just as much as physically after Many held multiple leads throughout the second half of the Logansport loss.

Logansport quarterback Kollin Magee tossed five touchdowns, including a fourth-down strike for the final score of the game with just a few minutes left.

Many workhorse Daniel Thomas was equally impressive with his 220 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 37 carries. Jayarious Stills added another two rushing touchdowns in his 30 yards.

DeRidder had trouble stopping Leesville’s stud back Grant Braxton (221 yards and four touchdowns on 35 carries), and Many’s Thomas is an even bigger back.

The Tigers’ offensive line will need to similarly create running room like Leesville’s front did to have the same amount of success.

One of Leesville’s advantages is the threat of an explosive aerial attack. Trel Broom threw for 236 yards and three touchdowns against the Dragons.

DeRidder did have two interceptions, and for Many quarterback Lucas McCarty and a still-evolving passing game, the Tigers will want to protect the ball at all costs.

Logansport intercepted McCarty for the third time of the game on Many’s final drive. McCarty finished 2-9 with 43 yards and a touchdown.

A key to protecting the freshman signal caller is not falling behind the sticks or on the scoreboard – which requires the Many defense to get off the field on third and fourth downs.

Many did beat DeRidder this past season 49-21 as part of its statement-making 2-0 start in Hassell’s first season, a campaign that followed a winless 2025.

Now the Tigers don’t want to fall behind 0-2 in a rather challenging non-district slate that includes that Leesville team in Week 5.

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It was a championship week for Florien basketball as two Blackcat boys teams brought home titles following a hard-fought week on the court.

The Florien 5th and 6th Grade Boys captured their championship in dramatic fashion, defeating Many, 22-21, on a last-second shot to secure the title.

The excitement continued for the 7th and 8th Grade Boys, who defeated Hornbeck in the championship game to give Florien its second title of the week.

The victories capped off a successful stretch of basketball for the Blackcats, with both teams battling their way through competition to finish as champions.

Florien celebrated the players for their hard work and the way they represented their school throughout the tournament.

School supporters also recognized the coaches, parents, fans, administrators, faculty and staff who supported the teams throughout their championship runs.

With both squads finishing on top, Florien ended the week with two teams and two championships, giving Blackcat fans plenty to celebrate.

Florien is bringing home the hardware — times two.

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