The Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office has released information on several arrests made during the month of July involving narcotics, firearms, and other offenses.

According to the Sheriff’s Office, the following individuals were arrested:

Kimberly A. Scott, 36, of Many was arrested on a warrant charging her with Distribution of Schedule II (Methamphetamine), Illegal Use of a Controlled Dangerous Substance in the Presence of a Minor, and Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor.

Christopher Shane Lewing, 46, of Florien was arrested for Possession of Schedule II (Methamphetamine), Driver Must Be Licensed, Improper Display of License Plate, and No Proof of Vehicle Insurance.

Jeriod Brock Abels, 41, of Florien was arrested for Possession of Schedule II (Methamphetamine), Possession of Schedule IV (Xanax), Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Second or Subsequent Offense, No Seatbelt, and No Proof of Vehicle Insurance.

John Diez Testa, 46, of Shreveport was arrested for Driving While Intoxicated (First Offense), Possession of Schedule I (Marijuana), Possession of Schedule II (Methamphetamine), Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Second or Subsequent Offense.

Wanda Thompson Mallette, 73, of Zwolle was arrested for Possession of Schedule II (Methamphetamine) and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Tarquerious Chavez Seastrunk, 31, of Many was arrested on a federal indictment for Possession with Intent to Distribute Schedule II and was transferred to federal custody in Shreveport.

Deborah Martinez Sepulvado, 44, of Zwolle was arrested for Possession with Intent to Distribute Schedule II (Methamphetamine), Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended, Driving on a Roadway Laned for Traffic, and on a warrant charging her with two counts of Distribution of Schedule II (Methamphetamine).

Harvey Eugene York, 51, of Zwolle was arrested on a warrant charging him with Possession of a Firearm by a Person Convicted of Certain Felonies.

The Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office reminds the public that all persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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The Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office is recognizing the impact of the Adam Walsh Act while reminding residents about sex offender registration requirements and available public resources.

According to the Sheriff’s Office, Adam Walsh disappeared and was murdered in the summer of 1981. Following his death, his parents, John and Revé Walsh, turned their grief into action by advocating for stronger protections for children. Their efforts helped inspire the creation of the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) in 1984.

Today, NCMEC serves as the nation’s leading nonprofit organization dedicated to helping find missing children, combating child sexual exploitation, and providing educational resources to help keep children safe. The organization reports that 90% of missing children reported to NCMEC last year were safely recovered.

The Sheriff’s Office also noted that 20 years ago, the Adam Walsh Act of 2006 was enacted.

Title I of the Adam Walsh Act established the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA), creating national standards for sex offender registration and notification. The law applies to all 50 states, the District of Columbia, U.S. territories, and participating tribes.

Under SORNA, registered sex offenders are required to maintain current registration information. Failure to comply with the law may result in felony charges.

SORNA classifies offenders into three registration tiers:

Tier 1: Registration required for 15 years with annual updates.

Tier 2: Registration required for 25 years with updates every six months.

Tier 3: Lifetime registration with updates every three months.

The Sheriff’s Office noted that information for Tier 2 and Tier 3 offenders is made publicly available to promote community awareness and safety.

Residents can view the list of registered sex offenders living in Sabine Parish through the Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office website or the Sabine Parish Sheriff App.

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SABINE PARISH — Hot and mostly sunny weather will continue across Sabine Parish through the weekend, with temperatures holding in the lower 90s and scattered afternoon showers and thunderstorms possible each day, according to the National Weather Service.

While rain chances remain relatively low, residents should be prepared for isolated thunderstorms during the afternoon and evening hours.Extended Forecast

Wednesday: A 20% chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. Otherwise, sunny with a high near 94°. Calm winds. Mostly clear Wednesday night with a low around 74°.

Thursday: Sunny with a high near 93°. Mostly clear Thursday night with a low around 73°.

Friday: A 30% chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. Sunny with a high near 93°. Mostly clear Friday night with a low around 73°.

Saturday: A 20% chance of showers and thunderstorms. Sunny with a high near 93°. Mostly clear Saturday night with a low around 73°.

Sunday: A 20% chance of showers and thunderstorms. Sunny with a high near 93°.

The National Weather Service encourages residents to stay hydrated, limit strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day, and take frequent breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas.

Although rain chances remain relatively low, isolated thunderstorms are possible each afternoon. Residents should remain weather-aware and be prepared for brief periods of heavy rain, lightning, and gusty winds if storms develop.

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HEADQUARTERS NEWS RELEASE

August 3, 2026

Baton Rouge – Louisiana State Police is gearing up to launch the 110th Cadet Class, continuing the legacy of excellence and intensity that defines our training. This 24-week academy will immerse Cadets in a rigorous curriculum, preparing them with the skills and knowledge needed to become Louisiana State Troopers. Cadets will receive advanced training that exceeds POST standards, covering firearms proficiency, tactical driving, defensive tactics, de-escalation techniques, advanced crash investigation, lawful use of force, implicit bias recognition, and the core values that make LSP a proud tradition.

Cadet Class 110 is expected to start on January 3, 2027, with an application deadline of August 11, 2026. Applications are available for download at http://laspc.dps.louisiana.gov and should be submitted electronically to the Louisiana State Police Commission. Applicants for Cadet Class 110 must be at least twenty-one (21) years old and meet one of the following criteria:

Two (2) years of experience as a Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) Level 1 (or out-of-state equivalent) certified peace officer in a full-time position (whose job duties include armed duty with the power of arrest); or

A minimum of sixty (60) semester hours from an accredited college or university (must provide transcript or degree); or

Any two (2) year combination of Options 1 and 2 above, whereby thirty (30) semester hours will be equivalent to one (1) year of experience; or

Three (3) years of continuous active military duty in the United States Military (must provide a DD-214 or letter from current commanding officer verifying service), effective October 1, 2001.

LSP offers competitive pay and benefits, a take-home state vehicle, opportunities for overtime, and an incredible retirement package. Visit JoinLSP.org for more information on the hiring process, qualifications, physical fitness standards, and frequently asked questions. For additional questions and information, please contact LSP Recruiters at LSPRecruiting@LA.gov or Text “JoinLSP” to 225-777-8162. Applicants can also visit facebook.com/LouisianaStatePoliceRecruiting.

For those applicants not meeting LSP minimum qualifications, immediate positions are available within the Louisiana Department of Public Safety Police through the Louisiana State Civil Service System. Visit https://www.lsp.org/…/leadershipsec…/support/dps-police/ and http://www.civilservice.louisiana.gov for more information.

Contact Information:

Trooper Shelby Mayfield
Louisiana State Police Louisiana State Police
Public Affairs Section
or
Recruiting Section
Office: (225) 925-6202 Office: (225)925-6202
Shelby.mayfield@la.gov LSPRecruiting@la.gov

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Expecting mothers are invited to attend a Community Baby Shower hosted by the Louisiana Department of Health’s Community HealthWays team on Thursday, Aug. 13, at the Sabine Medical Center Conference Center in Many.

The free event will be held from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at 240 Highland Drive and will provide helpful resources and information for expectant mothers.

According to the flyer, attendees can expect:

Baby care resources

Brief educational sessions on infant care

Door prizes

No-cost diaper bags

Vendors focused on baby-related products and services

There is no cost to attend, but seating is limited and registration is required.

To register, email Tennille.Jenkins@la.gov.

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One of Sabine Parish’s most cherished traditions will reach a major milestone next year as organizers prepare to celebrate the 50th Annual Zwolle Tamale Fiesta Queen’s Ball.

Event organizers recently announced plans for the golden anniversary celebration, which is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 19, 2026, at the Zwolle Festival Grounds.

As part of the milestone event, all former Zwolle Tamale Fiesta Queens are being invited to attend and participate in a special presentation honoring the rich history and legacy of the Queen’s Ball over the past five decades.

The Queen’s Ball has long been one of the signature events associated with the annual Zwolle Tamale Fiesta, a festival that has become synonymous with the town’s unique cultural heritage and its reputation as Louisiana’s tamale capital.

For generations, the Queen’s Ball has served as a showcase for local young women and a celebration of community pride, family traditions, and the enduring spirit of Zwolle. Over the years, dozens of young women have represented the festival as queen ambassadors, becoming part of a tradition that spans multiple generations.

Organizers say the 50th anniversary celebration will provide an opportunity to recognize those former queens while reflecting on the history and growth of one of Sabine Parish’s most recognizable cultural events.

The Zwolle Tamale Fiesta has drawn visitors from across Louisiana and neighboring states for decades, featuring food, music, entertainment, and community activities that highlight the area’s diverse heritage.

With preparations already underway, organizers are encouraging former queens and community members to save the date and make plans to attend the historic anniversary celebration.

Additional details regarding the Queen’s Ball, special presentations, and anniversary activities are expected to be announced as the event approaches.

The 50th Annual Zwolle Tamale Fiesta Queen’s Ball promises to be both a celebration of tradition and a tribute to the many individuals who have helped shape one of Sabine Parish’s most beloved community events.

For longtime residents and festival supporters, the golden anniversary will offer a chance to honor the past while looking ahead to the future of a tradition that has become an important part of Sabine Parish history.

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SABINE PARISH, La. — Enrollment is now open for the upcoming Sabine Parish 4-H program year, and students across the parish are invited to join for another year of learning, leadership, and hands-on experiences.

According to the Sabine Parish AgCenter, enrollment is available for:

Cloverbuds: Pre-K through 3rd grade

4-H: Grades 4-12

To enroll in Sabine Parish 4-H, students must either attend school in Sabine Parish or reside within the parish. Homeschooled students and those who do not wish to join a school club may register as members-at-large.

Families have several enrollment options:

Enroll online at V2.4HONLINE.COM

Complete a paper enrollment form and return it to a school club leader or the 4-H Office.

Returning 2025-26 members were emailed a PDF enrollment form, which can be completed and emailed to jcampbell@agcenter.lsu.edu.

Members are encouraged to update the following information during enrollment:

Grade level

School

Email address

Phone number

Annual dues are $10 and may be paid to a school’s club leader, through 4-H Online (processing fees apply), or at the 4-H Office.
The Sabine Parish AgCenter encourages students to enroll now and prepare for another year of 4-H activities and opportunities.

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Betty Jean Rogers

Funeral services for Betty Jean Rogers, 71, will be held on Wednesday, August 5, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Ann Catholic Church, 5272 Hwy 482, Ebarb, Louisiana. A visitation took place on Tuesday, August 4, 2026 from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. with a Rosary at 6:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 9891 Texas Hwy, Many, Louisiana. A burial will follow the service at St. Ann Catholic Church Cemetery. Officiating the service will be Father Keith Garvin.

Betty was born on October 29, 1954 in Sabine Parish, Louisiana to Manuel Ebarb and Pauline Sepulvado Ebarb and passed away on Thursday, July 30, 2026 in Alexandria, Louisiana.

Betty was preceded in death by her parents, Manuel and Pauline Ebarb; daughter, Stacy Sepulvado; brother, John Ebarb; and grandchild, Kouper Belanger.

She is survived by her husband, Nathan Rogers of Many, Louisiana; sons, Scott Corley and wife, Lucia, of DeRidder, Louisiana and Brady Corley of Shreveport, Louisiana; sister, Helen Laroux and husband, Wilbert, of Zwolle, Louisiana; brother, Curtis Ebarb of Shreveport, Louisiana; grandchildren, Kendal Torres and husband, Gianni, of Bossier, Louisiana, Mikayla Sepulvado of Shreveport, Louisiana, and Danalyn Belanger of DeRidder, Louisiana; and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends.

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

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Charles Clayton Self

Funeral services for Charles Clayton Self, 51, were held on Monday, August 3, 2026 at 11:30 a.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 9891 Texas Hwy, Many, Louisiana. A visitation was held at 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. Officiated by Brother Casey Sanders.

Charles was born on October 19, 1974 to Charles Eugene Self and Marion Lynn Self in Shreveport, Louisiana and passed away on Saturday, August 1, 2026 in Shreveport, Louisiana.

Charles is preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Marion Self.

He is survived by his daughter, Kami Self, of Shreveport, Louisiana.

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

Billy Dewayne Alford
DEC 14, 1966 — AUG 3, 2026
Services: Sunday August 9 at 3:00 pm at Gandy Baptist Church

Mary Bernice Hauser
APR 23, 1942 — AUG 2, 2026
Service: Tuesday August 11 at 10:00 am at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church

David Paul Randow
JUN 11, 1945 — AUG 1, 2026
Visitation: Saturday August 8 from 11:00 am – 12:00 pm at Living Word Church
Services: Saturday August 8 at 12:00 pm at Living Word Church

Betty Jean Rogers
October 29, 1954 — July 30, 2026
Services: Wednesday, August 5 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Ann Catholic Church

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

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The Many Police Department is reminding motorists to understand Louisiana’s window tint laws before installing darker tint, emphasizing that a doctor’s note alone does not allow a fully tinted front windshield.

According to the department, Louisiana law generally prohibits window tint below the top six inches of the front windshield.

The only exception allowing tint below the top six inches is when a licensed physician specifically authorizes it for a patient diagnosed with light-sensitive porphyria, in accordance with Louisiana law.

Medical Exemption Process

For individuals with a qualifying medical condition involving sensitivity to sunlight, the exemption process includes:

Obtaining the official Louisiana State Police medical exemption affidavit.

Having the affidavit completed by a Louisiana-licensed physician or optometrist, including ophthalmologists and dermatologists.

Signing the required notarized medical records release.

Submitting the application to the Louisiana State Police for review. Walk-in applications are not accepted.

If approved, applicants will receive:

An official exemption decal for the vehicle.

An affidavit or certificate that must be kept in the vehicle at all times.

Additional Information

The Many Police Department noted the following about Louisiana’s medical window tint exemptions:

The exemption is tied to the specific vehicle.

Most medical exemptions are reviewed every three years.

Exemptions for diagnosed light-sensitive porphyria remain valid while the qualifying owner retains the vehicle.

A security exemption may allow darker side-window tint for qualifying applicants, but it does not authorize tint below the top six inches of the windshield.

The department encourages vehicle owners to understand Louisiana’s tint laws before installing darker window tint, noting that while professional tint shops should be familiar with legal requirements, the vehicle owner is ultimately responsible for ensuring the vehicle complies with state law.

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SABINE PARISH — The Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office is encouraging parents to stay informed about the apps and online platforms their children use, sharing information from the Alliance to Fight Human Trafficking in Southwest Louisiana about online safety and child protection.
According to the organization, human traffickers and online predators often use popular apps, games, and social media platforms to contact and groom children. They may pose as another child and offer gifts, friendship, or support before attempting to exploit or manipulate them.
Parents are encouraged to help protect their children by:
Knowing what apps are installed on their devices.
Reviewing privacy and location-sharing settings on those apps.
Talking regularly with children about online safety and the dangers of communicating with strangers.
Monitoring friend requests and online interactions.
Teaching children never to share personal information, photos, or their location with someone they only know online.
Reminding children they can always talk to a trusted adult if something online makes them feel uncomfortable or unsafe.
The information shared by the Sheriff’s Office also highlights several apps and platforms that parents should be familiar with, including:
Roblox
TikTok
Calculator% (vault app)
Snapchat
MocoSpace
Monkey
WhatsApp
HOLLA
Discord
Wizz
Bumble
Hily
Kik
LiveMe
Skout
Yubo
DOWN
MeetMe
Zoosk
Badoo
Grindr
Whisper
Best Secret Folder (vault app)
The Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office said awareness, open communication, and staying involved are among the best ways parents can help keep their children safe online.
Officials also encouraged residents to share the information with other parents to help educate families and promote online safety for children.

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SABINE PARISH — Hot and humid conditions will continue across Sabine Parish through early next week, with heat index values climbing above 100 degrees before scattered showers and thunderstorms return later in the week, according to the National Weather Service.

Wednesday is expected to bring the hottest conditions, with a high near 96 degrees and heat index values as high as 105 degrees. While isolated rain chances return Thursday and continue through the weekend, no widespread rainfall is expected.
Extended Forecast

Wednesday: Sunny and hot with a high near 96°. Heat index values as high as 105°. West wind around 5 mph, becoming calm in the morning. Partly cloudy Wednesday night with a low around 78°.

Thursday: A 20% chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. Otherwise, mostly sunny and hot with a high near 95°. Mostly cloudy Thursday night with a low around 77°.

Friday: Partly sunny and hot with a high near 95°. A 20% chance of showers after 1 a.m. Friday night with a low around 77°.

Saturday: A 20% chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 1 p.m. Otherwise, mostly sunny with a high near 94°. Partly cloudy Saturday night with a low around 75°.

Sunday: A 20% chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny with a high near 93°. Partly cloudy Sunday night with a low around 74°.

Monday: A 20% chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny with a high near 93°.

The National Weather Service encourages residents to take precautions during the prolonged heat by drinking plenty of water, limiting strenuous outdoor activities during the afternoon hours, and taking frequent breaks in air-conditioned or shaded areas.

Residents are also reminded to check on elderly neighbors and other vulnerable individuals and to never leave children or pets unattended inside a parked vehicle, where temperatures can quickly reach dangerous levels.

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The Sabine Parish AgCenter is exploring the possibility of launching a homeschool club and is asking local homeschooling families to share their interest.

According to the AgCenter, families have periodically expressed interest in a homeschool club. Although one was offered last year, no participants attended.

Now, with a volunteer interested in serving as the club’s leader, the AgCenter is once again gauging community interest before moving forward.

Organizers are asking homeschool families who would like to participate to comment on the AgCenter’s social media post or send a direct message. They are also requesting feedback on preferred meeting days and times to help determine a schedule that best meets the needs of participating families.

The Sabine Parish AgCenter said input from local homeschool families will help determine whether there is enough interest to establish the club and identify the most convenient meeting times.

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SABINE PARISH — The Sabine Parish School Board has introduced its “Portrait of a Graduate,” a framework designed to define the skills, knowledge, and characteristics every student should develop before graduating from Sabine Parish Schools.

According to the district, the Portrait of a Graduate transforms its mission and vision into a clear roadmap for student success, helping ensure graduates are prepared not only for college and careers but also for life beyond the classroom.

School officials said the framework will serve as the district’s guiding “north star” as educators work toward developing well-rounded students equipped for future success.

The Portrait of a Sabine Graduate focuses on six key areas:

College & Career Ready Academic Skills – Preparing students with the academic and career skills needed for success after graduation.

Real World Readiness – Developing the ability to adapt, solve problems, persevere, and use real-world skills to succeed in an ever-changing world.

Self-Awareness – Helping students understand their strengths, manage their emotions, demonstrate personal integrity, and make responsible decisions that consider their current and future impact on themselves and others.

Self-Motivation & Perseverance – Encouraging students to set goals, take initiative, persevere through obstacles, demonstrate a positive attitude and work ethic, and remain accountable for following through on their commitments.

Effective Communication & Collaboration – Preparing students to communicate clearly, listen to others, and work effectively with people from different backgrounds and experiences to make their school and community a better place.

Leadership – Inspiring students to lead by example, take responsibility for their actions, and strive to make positive contributions to their community and society.

The Sabine Parish School Board said the Portrait of a Graduate will guide the district’s efforts as it continues preparing students for success in college, careers, and life after graduation.

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BOM Bank was proud to support the community and the ministries making a difference in the lives of children. We were honored to donate five bicycles to Macedonia Baptist Church in Zwolle for their Vacation Bible School, that took place June 16-18. The VBS program was open to all ages and featured fun and games, arts and crafts, music, Bible stories, and opportunities to make new friends. Pictured left to right are BOM Bank’s Jett Bullock, Bridget Hicks, Shon Payton, Jermaine Thomas, and BOM Bank’s Kristi Lee. Thank you to Macedonia Baptist Church for investing in our youth and creating a place where faith and fellowship come together. We are grateful to partner with organizations that strengthen our communities and share God’s love.

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Derryl Lane Lee of Florien Louisiana, age 65, passed away peacefully on July 25, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on January 19, 1961, in Flagstaff, Arizona, to David Lee and the late Pearl Lee of Florien, Louisiana. Derryl lived a life defined by love, laughter, family, and perseverance.

Despite facing numerous challenges throughout his life, Derryl never wavered in his love for his family or his commitment to living life to the fullest. His infectious laughter, practical jokes, and wonderful sense of humor brought joy to everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Derryl graduated from Florien High School in 1979 and spent his career as a heavy equipment operator. He helped build the International Paper mill in Mansfield, Louisiana, and worked on the early construction of Interstate 49 as well as the four-lane expansion of U.S. Highway 171.

Above all else, Derryl was a devoted father to his three children, a proud grandfather to ten grandchildren, and was eagerly awaiting the arrival of his first great-granddaughter. With his trademark humor, he often joked that she would be named “Derrylina.”

Derryl enjoyed spending time at auctions, rummage sales, and thrift stores, always searching for hidden treasures. Over the years, he built an impressive collection and found great joy in sharing those treasures with family and friends.

He is survived by his father, David Lee; brother, Steve Lee (Debbie), all of Florien, Louisiana; daughter, Tasha Lee of Idabel, Oklahoma; sons, Chipper Lee (Jerrika) of Florien, Louisiana, and Dustin Lee of Many, Louisiana; and ten grandchildren: Brayln Lee (Mallory), Stori Lee, Jason Lee, Jake Lee, Josey Lee, Arrow Lee, Everly Lee, all of Florien, Louisiana, Terell Walls, Taleaha Mims (Marchel), and Trey Sanders. He also leaves behind his faithful dog, Cooper, along with many other family members and friends who will forever cherish his memory.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Pearl Lee of Florien, Louisiana.

Pallbearers will be Aaron Lee, Eric Lee, Jacob Lee, Jared Lee, Terell Walls, Brayln Lee, Jason Lee, Jake Lee, Trey Sanders, and Arrow Lee.

Honorary Pallbearers will be Steve Lee, Wendell Wright, Danny McNeely, Imon Jones, Wade Cook, Robert Brooks, Belinda Arthur, Donnie Ray Laurence, Joe Don Cook, Delane Johnson, Joe Harris, Doug Thaxton, Joe Pat Sepulvado, Justin Sepulvado, and Charles Lee.

Funeral services will be held at Mount Carmel Baptist Church in Florien, Louisiana, at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, officiated by Brother Matt Warren and Brother Wayne Chance. Burial will follow at Florien Cemetery in Florien, Louisiana.

Friends may visit with the family from 11:00 a.m. until the time of the funeral service. The family will have a private viewing at 10:00 a.m.

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

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Derryl Lane Lee
January 19, 1961 — July 25, 2026
Visitation: 11:00 a.m. until the time of the funeral service
Services: Wednesday, July 29 at 2:00 p.m. at Mount Carmel Baptist Church

William Ruffin Jr.
02/22/1943 – 07/18/2026
Visitation: Friday, July 31 from 3:00 p.m. – 7:00 at Bethel Baptist Church Services: Saturday, August 1 at 12:00 P.M. Zwolle High School Auditorium

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

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Several members of the Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office recently strengthened their leadership skills by participating in the FBI-LEEDA Supervisor Leadership Institute (SLI) held last week in Shreveport.

Sheriff Aaron Mitchell and several deputies attended the advanced leadership program, which is designed to enhance the leadership abilities of supervisors and middle managers within law enforcement. The institute follows FBI-LEEDA’s interactive

“Cops Teaching Cops” model, providing practical instruction from experienced law enforcement professionals.

The course focused on developing leadership competencies that participants can apply in their daily supervisory roles. Deputies explored key concepts including credibility, accountability, motivation, liability, and discipline—skills considered essential for effective leadership at every level of policing.

Training topics included:

Supervisory Leadership

Supervisory Credibility and Authenticity

Law Enforcement Liability

Police Discipline

DISC Behavior and Leadership

Leading Generations

According to the Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office, the training equips participants with valuable tools to better lead personnel, strengthen organizational effectiveness, and meet the evolving challenges facing today’s law enforcement agencies.

Sheriff Mitchell also expressed appreciation to Chief Wayne Smith and the Shreveport Police Department for hosting the training and extending their hospitality throughout the week.

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Families across Sabine Parish are invited to kick off the new school year at the annual Sabine Parish Back to School Rally, where students will receive free school supplies while enjoying a morning of encouragement and community fellowship.

The event will be held on Saturday, Aug. 1, at Many Elementary School.

Registration will take place from 8 to 9 a.m., with the program beginning at 9 a.m. School supplies will be distributed immediately following the program.

Organizers say the event is designed to help students start the 2026-27 school year prepared and confident by providing essential classroom supplies at no cost to families.

To receive school supplies, students must be present and accompanied by an adult.

The annual Back to School Rally brings together community members, volunteers, and local organizations to support Sabine Parish students as they prepare to return to the classroom.

Organizers encourage families to mark their calendars and attend the free event, saying they hope to send students into the new school year with “joy and confidence.”

Event Details:

What: Sabine Parish Back to School Rally

When: Saturday, Aug. 1

Where: Many Elementary School

Registration: 8–9 a.m.

Program Begins: 9 a.m.

School Supplies: Distributed following the program

Reminder: Students must be present and accompanied by an adult to receive school supplies.

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Long-awaited road improvements are set to begin on C.B. Byrd Road and Horseshoe Drive, according to the Sabine Parish Road Department.

The project will include milling, re-oiling, and resurfacing both roads, with work scheduled to be completed before the start of the upcoming school year.Motorists traveling through the area should expect temporary delays during construction and are encouraged to slow down, as crews will be working on the roadway and fresh oil will be applied as part of the resurfacing process. Drivers are also asked to give workers plenty of space to safely complete the project.

Parish officials noted that the repairs are being funded through revenue collected from pipeline-related road damage, meaning no additional local taxpayer funds are being used for the improvements.

The project is expected to improve driving conditions for residents while restoring roadways that have experienced significant wear and damage.

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ZWOLLE, La. — The Zwolle Museum on the Bend is hosting a temporary exhibit exploring the history of the Pine Flat, Louisiana, and Robertson Bend, Texas, communities.

Noted Sabine County historian Weldon McDaniel created 20 large display panels highlighting the farms, homes, churches and families that helped shape the communities along the Sabine River. Each panel measures 3 feet by 6 feet.

The exhibit will remain on display for three weeks, giving visitors a limited opportunity to learn about the area and the generations who called it home.

The Zwolle Museum on the Bend is open Thursday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission is free, and the exhibit is open to the public.

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Residents should prepare for another stretch of dangerously hot weather as temperatures remain in the mid to upper 90s through early next week, according to the National Weather Service.

The hottest day of the forecast is expected to be Wednesday, when temperatures will climb to around 99 degrees, with heat index values reaching as high as 110 degrees. The combination of high temperatures and humidity will create hazardous conditions for anyone spending extended time outdoors.

The extended forecast includes:

Wednesday: Sunny and hot with a high near 99°. Heat index values up to 110°. Overnight low around 77°.

Thursday: Sunny and hot with a high near 95°. Overnight low around 74° under mostly clear skies.

Friday: Sunny and hot with a high near 95°. Partly cloudy overnight with a low around 76°.

Saturday: Mostly sunny and hot with a high near 95°. Overnight low around 77°.

Sunday: Mostly sunny with a 20% chance of showers and a high near 95°. Overnight low around 76°.

Monday: Sunny and hot with a high near 96°.

With the prolonged period of extreme heat, the National Weather Service encourages residents to take precautions by:

Drinking plenty of water throughout the day.

Limiting strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest afternoon hours.

Taking frequent breaks in air-conditioned or shaded areas.

Checking on elderly neighbors, young children, and those without adequate cooling.

Never leaving children or pets unattended inside a vehicle, where temperatures can become life-threatening within minutes.

While a slight chance of showers returns on Sunday, little relief from the heat is expected, making heat safety a priority throughout the remainder of the week and into early next week.

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