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.
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.
Winners of the 2026 Gumbo Cook-off held at Northwestern State University as part of the 46th Annual Natchitoches-NSU Folk Festival have been announced. Elvin Shields of Natchitoches took first place in the poultry plus category for his chicken and sausage gumbo, while the team Big Dog Cookers, comprised of Joey Sylvie and Jimmy Lawrence of Natchez, took first place in the seafood and people’s choice categories and second place in the poultry plus category.
Kristie Brown, Felicia Lawson and Shirley Winslow managed the Cookoff. Judges were NSU Instructor of English Heather Salter-Dromm, NSU alumnus Eli Dyjack, NSU photographer Chris Reich and Sally Halm.
Festival patrons were able to sample the competing gumbos for a dollar a cup. Despite the heat of the day, the gumbo sold quickly.
“We sold 91 cups in 30 minutes. It was 100 degrees out there and people were eating that gumbo like it was the middle of winter,” said Sylvie.
Director of the Festival Dr. Shane Rasmussen observed “All of the entries made for the cook-off highlighted the level of skilled craftsmanship and art there is in making great gumbo. Each of the entrants made amazing food, and we thank them for sharing with us their culinary talents.”
When the Festival returns next July, it will host a Chili Cook-off. Updates will be posted on the Louisiana Folklife Center website in spring 2027.
Support for the Festival was provided by grants from the Cane River National Heritage Area, Inc., the Louisiana Division of the Arts Decentralized Arts Fund Program, the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities, the Natchitoches Historic District Development Commission, the Natchitoches Convention and Visitors Bureau, the National Endowment for the Arts, the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Foundation, the Shreveport Regional Arts Council and the State of Louisiana.
Support also came from generous sponsorships from Alliance Compressors, Atmos Energy, C&H Precision Machining, City Bank, the City of Natchitoches, Cleco, Evans Family, LLC, the Family Doctors of Natchitoches, the Harrington Law Firm, Ronnie’s Auto Glass and Collision Center, Natchitoches Wood Preserving Company and Young Estate, LLC.
The views, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in the program did not necessarily represent those of the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities.
Natchitoches Central graduate Camryn Davis catches a pass behind Troy Santa Marina during the NSU Demons’ first practice of preseason camp Tuesday night in Turpin Stadium. (NSU photo by CHRIS REICH)
Through two seasons of his tenure as Northwestern State’s head football coach, Blaine McCorkle has asked for and received constant, continual improvement.
That mantra again was on display Tuesday night as the 2026 Demons opened fall camp with a little more than two hours of work under the lights at Turpin Stadium.
“This is definitely the best one by far,” McCorkle said of the three opening days of camp he has overseen in Natchitoches. “I was talking to (Northwestern supporter) Mike Wilburn earlier today – everybody knows Mike Wilburn – and we talked about how far our program’s come since we’ve been here. There hasn’t been a single day we’ve been here that our program hasn’t gotten better. I can say that with all sincerity. This is by far our best first day of fall camp, and tomorrow better be our best second day. We talk about constant, continual improvement, and we had a big focus on that in our team meeting last night. That’s part of it.
“The program’s growing. We’re getting better, and it’s exciting.”
There were the expected mishaps on Day 1, but the Demons limited those in the team periods while fighting still sultry weather even after the sun set.
Those mistakes, however, came with the effort McCorkle and his staff sought, and they provided teachable moments for a team that practiced fully together for the first time as it prepares for its Aug. 27 season opener against Louisiana Christian in Natchitoches.
“That was the best Day 1that we’ve had,” quarterback Abram Johnston said. “In terms of effort wise, all the juices are flowing. We know we’ve got to get in shape. The (athletic) trainers talked about our hydration and nutrition and sleep has to be big during fall camp. We had guys puking and cramping, so we’ll get that together as it goes. We still gave a lot of effort, which you could see by how everyone was working.”
With less than a month until the season opener, the Demons have time to work out those kinks.
The first step comes with making sure the effort in today’s 7 p.m. second practice of camp equals that of the first day.
“Going into Day 2, we have to have that chip on our shoulder,” said safety Christian Williams, who like Johnston and McCorkle is in his third season as a Demon. “Think back to everything we’ve seen in the media about us. We’re just locked in and just ready to go.”
Tuesday’s opening practice ended with a rookie period, which allowed McCorkle and his staff to get a first look at their freshman class in a full team practice setting.
The staple of each fall camp practice is one that McCorkle said helps keep him energized. With recent changes in the NCAA’s eligibility calendar, first-year players could see themselves angling for larger roles upon their arrival on campus.
“We got a good look at some of the freshmen in the rookie period,” he said. “That’s one thing I like about training camp, we have a rookie period every day to see what some guys can do. That’s the film I get excited to watch – get in there and see what those guys look like.
“Where (the changes are) going to show up is the home games. When you travel, you’ll still travel your 60 to 65, and that’s going to be what it is. You get in a home game, and you get in a bind, you need to know that you can grab a kid and throw him in there at the drop of a hat and not be worried about it. There’s a lot of value in that. These guys have to realize, even right now, they’re not playing to redshirt. They’re playing to be the guy you trust to throw in there.”
Now into Week 4 of recovery from quadruple bypass surgery and I’m slowly getting some energy back. My appetite is also returning after losing close to 20 pounds. Quality, deep rem sleep is hard to come by, but the anxiety issues are getting better.
Enough about all that, let’s talk about things to do during the dog days of summer. While health wise, I’m still a few weeks away from dropping my boat in the water and getting back to serious fishing, now is a great time to head into my fishing man cave and reorganize, clean and respool a few reels for some good fall use.
After a busy spring tournament schedule my fishing man cave is a disaster. Bags of baits that should be on pegs are laying everywhere. I’ve got tackle boxes scattered all over the room that also need to be placed on a shelf.
Some of my crankbait boxes need to be gone through to consider certain baits that might need to be replaced. It’s also a great time to check the hooks and replace those old treble hooks with new ones. This is one area anglers can sometimes overlook until they lose a few fish, and it costs them a high finish.
Outside the fishing man cave, another thing anglers have to be conscious of this time of year, with temperatures reaching the mid to upper 90’s, is leaving soft plastic baits in your boat. Point being, high temperatures will melt soft plastic lures making not only a mess but costing you money.
Hopefully you’re fortunate enough to park your boat under a carport or inside your garage. But even in the garage, temperatures can reach extreme highs. I have a large fan that I run daily in my garage to help keep the temperature down.
If I know that I won’t be fishing for quite a while during those hot summer days, I’ll remove the soft plastic baits from my boat and store them in my air-conditioned fishing man cave.
After reorganizing the man cave, next I’ll take a look at the fishing reels that I have used most of the spring; clean each one as well as drop a little oil on the gears and moving parts. High dollar fishing reels only act like high dollar reels if you take good care of them.
Once your fishing man cave is in order, now is the time to get into your boat and clean it out. I take everything out of my boat so I can clean all the lockers. It’s also the time to take my spring tackle out and put my fall tackle in.
And while you’re at it, why not clean any major carpet stains? The best thing I have found to bring your boat carpet back to looking new is shaving crème. Take a small section at a time and apply the shaving crème then scrub with a soft brush or rag.
Let it sit for about 10 minutes, then rise with water and you’ll be amazed at how good your carpet will look. It’s also great for the new marine deck foam flooring that has become so popular.
These are just a few things to add to your summer to-do list in order to make sure you’re ready for some great fall fishing. ‘Til next time, stay cool and avoid the summer heat.
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.
July 29 marks the anniversary of the death of Dutch artist Vincent van Gogh, whose life and work have become among the most recognized in art history.
Van Gogh died on July 29, 1890, at the age of 37, two days after suffering a gunshot wound in Auvers-sur-Oise, France. Although he created more than 2,000 works of art, including around 900 paintings, he sold very few during his lifetime and struggled financially while pursuing his passion for painting.
One of his most famous final works, Wheatfield with Crows, is often associated with the final weeks of his life. The painting’s dramatic sky and winding paths have led generations of art historians and viewers to interpret it as reflecting his emotional state, though scholars continue to debate its exact significance.
Van Gogh’s distinctive style, characterized by bold colors and expressive brushstrokes, later helped shape modern art. Today, masterpieces such as The Starry Night, Sunflowers and Irises attract millions of visitors to museums around the world and rank among the most recognizable paintings ever created.
Ironically, the artist who struggled to gain recognition during his lifetime is now considered one of history’s greatest painters, with some of his works selling for tens of millions of dollars at auction.
More than 135 years after his death, Vincent van Gogh’s legacy continues to inspire artists, historians and art lovers worldwide, making July 29 a day to remember one of history’s most influential creative figures.
Walking through our preschool the other day, a little fellow proudly showed me his bandaid. He stuck out his arm like he was unveiling a medal of honor. I asked what happened. With the solemnity only a fouryearold can muster, he said, “I got a bobo.”
Case closed. Diagnosis made. Treatment applied. Healing underway.
Children are refreshingly honest about pain. If something hurts, they point to it. If they fall, they cry. If they get a scratch, they want a bandaid — preferably one with dinosaurs or superheroes, because everyone knows those heal faster.
Adults, on the other hand, become experts at hiding our wounds. We carry heart bobo’s — hurts no one can see. Disappointments we never voice. Grief we tuck behind a busy schedule. Regrets we bury so deeply we forget where we put them. Pain that we pretend isn’t there because we think grown-ups are supposed to “handle it.”
But the truth is, some of the deepest wounds don’t show up on the skin.
Isaiah wrote, “By his wounds we are healed.” That’s not poetic exaggeration — it’s the heart of the Gospel. Jesus didn’t just die for our sins in some abstract theological sense. He took on our pain, our brokenness, our hidden hurts, our heart bobo’s. The Son of God carried what we try so hard to conceal.
There’s pathos in that exchange — Christ taking our sin and sorrow, offering us freedom, and yet we humans often cling to the very things He died to release us from. It’s like walking around with a perfectly good bandaid in hand but refusing to peel off the backing.
King David prayed, “Put a new and right spirit within me.” That’s the grown-up version of holding out your wound and saying, “Lord, this is where it hurts.” It’s the courage to admit we need healing. It’s the humility to let God do what we cannot.
And here’s the soft humor of it all: If a preschooler can trust a bandaid to make a scraped elbow better, surely we can trust the Savior of the world to tend to our hearts.
So maybe today is a good day to stop pretending we’re fine. A good day to let go of what Christ has already carried. A good day to let the Healer do His healing.
After all, Jesus didn’t come to make bad people good. He came to make broken people whole. And that includes every one of us — heart bobo’s and all.
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.
All Americans learned in school that we fought two wars against the British, namely the American Revolution and the War of 1812, but there was a third war that began in 1859 which has been largely forgotten. Following the War of 1812, the United Kingdom and the United States agreed in the Treaty of Oregon that the boundary between the countries was along the 49th parallel from the Rocky Mountains to the middle of the channel which separates the continent from Vancouver’s Island then south through the channel to the Strait of Juan de Fuca and west to the Pacific Ocean (see map). This agreement was made by using crude maps by people who had little knowledge of the area. Both parties were unaware that there were two distinct channels or straits, the Haro Strait and the Rosario Strait, which were divided by San Juan Island. Because of the way the treaty was written, both countries claimed right to the island and people from both countries began settling on the island. For years, tension rose as each side argued that settlers from the other side were nothing more than squatters or trespassers.
The first shot of the war happened on June 15, 1859, when Lyman Cutlar, an American, shot and killed a British subject whom Lyman had found destroying crops in his field. British authorities threatened to arrest Lyman and to evict all Americans from the island. In response, American Brigadier General William Harney ordered a company of 64 infantry soldiers to the island. When the soldiers arrived, the British Governor at Vancouver ordered Royal Navy Captain Geoffrey Phipps Hornby to take his 31-gun steam frigate HMS Tribune to remove the American soldiers. More British warships joined the Tribune shortly thereafter, and more American soldiers were sent to the island. For months, the British and Americans stockpiled weapons and built up their forces for the upcoming battle. Each side drilled and fired their cannons, but they were careful not to aim at the opposing soldiers just yet. As both sides were making their final preparations for battle, General Winfield Scott, U.S. Army commander and War of 1812 veteran, arrived and began negotiations. General Scott proposed and both sides agreed on a joint military occupation until a final border could be agreed upon. For twelve long, tense years, San Juan Island remained under joint military occupation. In 1871, when Great Britain and the United States were still unable to agree on ownership of San Juan Island, they turned to Kaiser Wilhelm I of Germany who set up a three-man arbitration commission to settle the dispute. Both sides agreed that the commission’s decision would be final. Finally in October 1872, after nearly a year of discussions by the commission, Kaiser Wilhelm I ruled in favor of the United States. San Juan Island belonged to the United States. The Royal Marines withdrew the following month, and the war ended 14 years after the first shot was fired. The war over San Juan Island was named after that British subject who was the only fatality of this war between the United Kingdom and the United States. It is known as the Pig War. That’s right. This conflict between the United Kingdom and United States was set off by a squabble over a pig.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Summer is the perfect time to enjoy light, refreshing meals that require little time in the kitchen. Cucumber spread sandwiches are an easy, no-cook option that makes a delicious lunch, snack, or appetizer for family gatherings and tea parties.
Cucumbers are an excellent way to stay hydrated during the hot Louisiana summer because they are made up of about 95% water. They also provide vitamin K and add a crisp, refreshing crunch to meals. Pairing cucumbers with protein-rich cream cheese creates a satisfying snack that can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. For extra fiber and nutrients, choose whole-grain bread.
Cucumber Spread Sandwiches
Ingredients
1 large cucumber, peeled, seeded, and finely chopped
Pat the chopped cucumber dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
In a medium bowl, combine the cream cheese, mayonnaise, dill, garlic powder, and black pepper until smooth.
Fold in the cucumber until evenly mixed.
Spread the mixture onto four slices of bread and top with the remaining slices.
Trim crusts if desired and cut into halves, triangles, or bite-sized squares.
Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Nutrition Tip: Add thin slices of tomatoes or fresh herbs like chives or parsley for extra flavor and nutrients. Serve with fresh fruit and water or unsweetened tea for a refreshing summer meal.
Erin Stockton is a Nutrition Agent with the LSU AgCenter in DeSoto, Sabine, and Natchitoches Parishes. A certified educator for over 20 years, she provides research-based programs to help families make healthy food choices and stay active. For program requests or questions, contact her at 318-872-0533, estockton@agcenter.lsu.edu, or on Facebook at LSU AgCenter DeSoto, Sabine, & Natchitoches Nutrition & Community Health. The LSU AgCenter provides equal opportunities in programs and employment. Additional information: www.lsuagcenter.com/eeo
July 22 marks one of the most famous days in American crime history.
On July 22, 1934, notorious bank robber John Dillinger was shot and killed by federal agents outside the Biograph Theater in Chicago after leaving a movie. His death ended one of the nation’s most highly publicized manhunts during the Great Depression.
Dillinger became one of America’s most infamous outlaws after a string of bank robberies, jail escapes and confrontations with law enforcement across the Midwest. Newspapers closely followed his crimes, turning him into a household name at a time when many Americans were struggling through economic hardship.
Federal authorities tracked Dillinger to the theater after receiving information from an informant. As he exited the building, agents attempted to arrest him. When he tried to flee, he was shot and killed.
The event marked a significant moment in the history of federal law enforcement. The pursuit of Dillinger helped elevate the public profile of what would become the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) under Director J. Edgar Hoover and led to increased attention on interstate crime-fighting efforts.
More than 90 years later, Dillinger’s story continues to be the subject of books, documentaries and films, making July 22 a notable date in American history.
Louisiana’s youth employment certificate process has changed and is now managed by Louisiana Works.
Under the updated process, employers are responsible for issuing work permits and verifying a minor’s age. Schools will no longer issue work permits or employment certificates.
Employers must use the new Louisiana Works Employment Certificate.
Louisiana Works also reminded schools that access to the Louisiana Works Employment Certificate System will end July 24, 2026.
The update is intended to provide important information for parents, students, employers and school partners preparing for youth employment.
Beef cattle producers, veterinarians, and agricultural professionals are invited to participate in a new educational webinar series hosted by the LSU AgCenter focusing on emerging threats facing the beef cattle industry.
The “Emerging Threats to the Beef Cattle Industry” Webinar Series will feature expert speakers from across the South discussing disease preparedness, invasive pests, and other challenges impacting cattle operations.
The free webinar series includes the following sessions:
July 21 at 6 p.m.
Role of Cattle Management in Emerging Disease Readiness
Presented by Dr. Chris Womack, Texas veterinarian and rancher.
This session will examine how sound cattle management practices can help producers prepare for and respond to emerging livestock diseases.
Aug. 3 at 6 p.m.
Asian Longhorned Tick and Theileria
Presented by Dr. John Currin, Production Animal Veterinarian at Virginia Tech, and Dr. Dan Cummings, Tennessee veterinarian.
The webinar will focus on the growing concern surrounding the invasive Asian longhorned tick and Theileria, a parasite capable of causing significant health and economic impacts in cattle herds.
Date To Be Announced
Pasture Mealybug
Presented by Dr. Stephen Biles, Extension Specialist with Texas A&M AgriLife.
This presentation will discuss the pasture mealybug, an emerging pest that has become a concern for forage production and pasture management.
The LSU AgCenter encourages cattle producers and others involved in the beef industry to participate in the series to stay informed about the latest research, management practices, and potential threats affecting Louisiana’s cattle industry.
Those interested in attending can register through the webinar links provided by the LSU AgCenter.
If I have learned nothing else over my many years of tournament bass fishing, it’s the fact that it’s a young man’s sport. Being young has its privileges, especially when it comes to energy levels and mobility. At the age of 65, I no longer hop around the boat like a rat on crack.
Now I’m a little more cautious in making sure I don’t hang a toe getting up on the front deck of my Caymas boat. I’m just trying to maintain my balance and make sure that I don’t fall in the lake!
I’ve also noticed that the older I have gotten, the further it seems to be from the driver’s seat console to the front of my boat. Just putting the trolling motor in the water also requires a little more energy now, even with high-tech lift-assist-systems that trolling motors have today.
Even tying on a new lure can be a challenge as I need my reading glasses just to see what I’m doing. Threading fishing line through the eye of a hook requires skill that used to be automatic; now it’s an adventure and a test of my patience!
One aspect that today’s young anglers seem to do a better job of is covering water and fishing as many places as they can in a day’s time. Older guys tend to stay in one area longer and fish it thoroughly just because we don’t want to take the time or exert the energy to move.
I have also noticed the younger generation of today are not very likely to offer much help for the older guys who might be launching their boats by themselves.
This was something I was always conscious of during my younger days. If I saw an older gentleman trying to launch his boat by himself, I always offered a helping hand. I think it’s just the way my generation was raised, to always be looking out for the elderly.
Even today, and now that I’m the older guy at the ramp, I’ll still offer ANY angler assistance. It’s just good manners.
In today’s tournament world, I find myself trying to stay in better shape just so I can compete with these young guns. To compete on any tournament trail, you must spend time on the water.
A good angler will practice 8-10 hours a day in the boat trying to locate as many schools of bass as he can. It’s not uncommon for the really good anglers to practice from sunup to sundown. Again, nothing will make you a better angler than time on the water!
These are the anglers who will not only cash more checks but will also be holding up the trophy at the end of the tournament. You cannot compete in today’s bass fishing world by taking shortcuts or only fishing for a few hours a day, no matter how good you think you are.
Another issue at my age is that some days, fishing is literally a grind and a test of your patience. The bass don’t always bite all day long and there are only a few small windows of opportunity where the bass will feed. If you’re not on the water, you will miss those opportunities.
There will be some days that you will ask yourself, “Why am I out here?” But these are the days that will separate the good anglers from the average ones. The good anglers will stay on the lake and make every attempt to figure out how to make the fish bite.
This is called persistence and determination, which can go a long way in having tournament success. It’s also called focus, which I find is a lot harder to maintain as I’ve gotten older. Focus ensures that you don’t miss those windows of opportunity when you get that unexpected bite.
One thing that has not changed, even at the age of 65, is my desire to compete. I’m still that same competitive soul who gets so much joy in a high finish and beating the younger generation. We’ve all heard, age is just a number. That’s true until you reach what you think is that age …then reality sets in.
Roy Allen Cook, M.D., 96, went home to be with His Lord and Savior, dying peacefully in his sleep the morning of July 18, 2026.
He was born in Fisher, Louisiana on November 1, 1929 to Eddie Houston Cook and Exie Varah Westbrook Cook. He was their oldest son.
Roy attended Florien High School and graduated at age 16 as the valedictorian. He then went to Northwestern State College in Natchitoches, Louisiana, where he also finished as valedictorian. While there, he met the love of his life, Mary Alice Barber. Roy went on to attend LSU Medical School in New Orleans. During his time there, on July 27, 1952, he and Mary Alice married. After finishing medical school, Roy, now Dr. Cook, completed a rotating internship at Charity Hospital in New Orleans. He went on to begin a surgery residency at Confederate Memorial Hospital in Shreveport, Louisiana. He stopped his residency to volunteer for the United States Air Force. He served two years as a flight surgeon, based in El Paso, Texas. He deployed to South Dakota, London, Greenland, and Germany at various times during his service. Dr. Cook then returned to Shreveport and completed 2 more years of his surgery residency.
In 1959, Dr. Cook and his family moved to Natchitoches, Louisiana, where he joined the general medical practice of Dr. Ira L. Campbell. He practiced general medicine and surgery for 45 years before retiring. After a short time, Dr. Cook went back to work, this time as an Emergency Room doctor. He retired from this in 2000.
Dr. Cook professed faith in the Lord Jesus Christ at a young age and memorized copious amounts of scripture. As a young lad, the pastor of his church had him stand on a bench in front of the church and recite the book of John. Always a faithful student of God’s word, in 1966, Dr. Cook became an elder of New Testament Baptist Church in Natchitoches, serving with Elder Ira Campbell and Elder Ralph Fell. He served and taught the word of God faithfully for many years. Even when macular degeneration took most of his sight, he continued to teach with enlarged notes and used his son-in-law, Matthew Axsom, to read the specific verses for him. Having a large number of scriptures memorized aided him in his sermon preparation and was a blessing to him in later life. Just 3 1/2 weeks ago, he quoted a large part of a chapter in the book of John to some of his family. Once he couldn’t think as clearly as he’d like, he stepped down from teaching, but continued to attend the church services and continued to be a blessing to all in the congregation.
Dr. Cook learned to make furniture from a friend when he was in medical school. It became a lifelong hobby. Each of his children and many of his grandchildren have pieces of furniture in their homes that he made. He always kept a big garden, and helped Mary Alice “put up” all of the produce. He could shell purple hull peas faster than anyone!
Dr. and Mrs. Cook were avid bird-watchers. From taking their children to the meetings of the National Audubon Society to taking grandchildren on “birding trips” to far away places, they enjoyed seeing and identifying new birds and sharing the hobby with each other and their friends.
Dr. Cook was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Alice Barber Cook and all of his siblings: Reba, Mary, Grady, Mildred, Van Houston, Martha, and Elouise, and his grandson, Boaz Barber Squyres. Dr. Cook is survived by his four children: Mary Squyres and her husband, Merlin Squyres, Eunice Smith and her husband, Calvin Smith, Sarah Axsom and her husband, Matthew Axsom, and Edward Cook and his wife, Jeannie Cook. He is also survived by 22 grandchildren and 27 great-grandchildren.
Dr. Cook’s family is deeply grateful for all of the prayers, calls, messages, and food shared over the last few weeks. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Dr. Cook’s memory may make donations to the Mexican Indian Training Center. P. O. Box 19422, Shreveport, LA 71149-9422.
A service to honor his life will be held at 10 am on Saturday, July 25, 2026 at Blanchard-St. Denis Funeral Home with Johnie Carter and Edward Houston Cook officiating. Burial will follow at Russell Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 4 pm until 7 pm on Friday, July 24th at Blanchard-St. Denis Funeral Home.
His grandsons are honored to serve as his pallbearers.
While our hearts mourn her passing, we rejoice in knowing that Betty Cryer is now at home with her Lord and Savior. She entered heaven on July 9, 2026, at the age of 84. Born on October 13, 1941, in Shreveport, Louisiana, Betty was the daughter of B. W. and Edna Mae Dollar.
Betty lived her life as an example of Christs love, extending kindness, generosity, and compassion to everyone she met. She had a remarkable ability to make people feel seen, welcomed, and appreciated. Her gentle warmth touched countless lives, and the love she shared will be remembered by all who knew her.
On August 19, 1960, Betty married the love of her life, R. B. Cryer, and together they embarked on a lifelong journey of music ministry, serving in every church they attended. Betty had a profound love for music, playing the piano and singing alongside her husband, which brought her immense joy. Her passion for music was only rivaled by her dedication to her family, particularly her grandsons, who were her whole world.
Betty was preceded in death by her parents, her devoted husband, her brother, B.J. Dollar and sister, Fay Dollar. Those remaining to cherish her memory include her children: Scott Cryer and his wife, LeAnn, of Manvel, Texas, and Christi Ebarb and her husband, Ricky, of Converse, Louisiana; her grandchildren: Nathan Anderson and his fiancée, Trinnity of Doyline, Dakota Cryer and his wife, Abbi, of Everett, Washington, and Austin Ebarb of Converse, Louisiana; and her youngest brother, Mike Dollar and his wife, Helen, of West Monroe, Louisiana as well as a host of extended family and friends.
The family extends their deepest gratitude to the staff of Many Healthcare North for the exceptional care and support they provided to Betty and her family over the past two years. They also wish to thank Superior Hospice for ensuring Bettys comfort during her final months.
Bettys life was a testament to the power of love and kindness, and it is in this spirit that her family invites you to celebrate her memory. Visitation was held at Rose-Neath Funeral Home in Many, Louisiana on Hwy 6 on Saturday, July 11, 2026 from 5:00pm – 9:00pm. Funeral service honoring her life were held at Pendleton Assembly of God, located on Texas Highway 6 in Many, Louisiana on Sunday, July 12, 2026 at 2:00pm. It is fitting that the service took place in a community she cherished, surrounded by those who meant so much to her.
Betty Cryer will be dearly missed, but the love and kindness she shared will continue to touch lives for generations to come. May her faith-filled spirit continue to inspire us, reminding us of the Lords enduring grace and the privilege we had in knowing her.
