Local History:  Headlines From the Sabine Index - 2001, Sabine Parish
Source:  Sabine Index, Many, La., Jan 2, 2001
Submitted by: Carl Dilbeck
              carlrad@earthlink.net

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by DONNA SMITH AMMONS, Special Assignments

  Fifty two weeks have passed, and 2001 is almost a memory. Over
the past year the INDEX has covered stories from births, to
honors, to fatality accidents. The Sabine Parish School Board,
Police Jury, Ebarb Water District, Sabine River Authority, and
town councils have provided interesting topics, and there's
always something happening in the District Attorney's Office, the
Sheriff's Office, or in the police departments across the parish.
The schools, sports, and 4-H have interested our readers, along
with feature stories, and plenty of pictures.

  Looking back, the year has given us a lot to write about, and
we're pleased to share some of those highlights.


  January 3, 2001

  Sharon Hyde of Wisconsin was named the new director of the
Sabine Parish Chamber of Commerce.

  A bank fraud scam was uncovered, and two Fort Polk soldiers were
arrested in Natchitoches. A hold was placed on the suspects by
the Many City Police.

  SNOW!! Everyone loved New Year's Eve, when huge snowflakes fell,
and the land was covered with a white blanket of snow. Snowmen
cropped up everywhere, even on top of Benford's firecracker
stand!!

  The Sabine River Authority received a grant of $27,600 to
enhance the intersection of Highway 191 and Highway 475.

  Deputy Jimmy Campbell graduated from Bossier Parish Community
College Criminal Justice Institute, as the top student in his
class of 82.

  Sabine Parish students from Many High, Florien High, and
Converse, toured the crippled Children's Hospital in Shreveport.

  A controversial ad for 24 Hour Fitness warned everyone that
"When they come, they'll eat the fat ones first." An alien was
pictured on the ad.


  January 10, 2001

  Sarah Ashlynn Lewing was the first baby of the new year. She was
born on Jan. 2, at Willis Knighton in Shreveport. (Happy first
birthday!!).

  The death penalty is being sought against Melvin Dewayne Joseph
of Georgia, in the Dec. 23, 1999 shooting death of Roderick
"Bill" Lewis of Many.

  Construction is underway for the new Many Junior High. The
groundbreaking ceremony was held on Dec. 13, 2000.

  The Old Pizza Hut, built in the 1970's, became a thing of the
past, as it was torn down to make way for the new facility.

  "Sharing Our Blessings" Christmas dinner, hosted by Kusum John
and her children, Saira, and Mark, in memory of Dr. V. M. John,
fed 435 parish residents.

  Fisher Mayor Susan Slay, and Pleasant Hill Mayor George Shannon
took their oaths of office.

  Fort Jesup received a grant from the Dept. or Rural Development.


  January 17, 2001

  The ARC of Sabine purchased property from RCM Properties LLC,
represented by Vernice Wright. The 38,000 square feet of
property, which had 10,000 square feet of buildings, sold for
$160,000.

  Martin Luther King Day was celebrated on Jan. 15, with a parade.

  The paddling case involving a Zwolle principal and a student was
turned over to legal counsel by the parents.

  Eleven male students at Many High were expelled for possession
of, and intent to distribute, a controlled dangerous substance on
Dec. 15.

  Pete Abington of Peoples State Bank donated land behind Many
Ford Mercury to the Humane Society.

  The first ophthalmology surgery was performed at Sabine Medical
Center, on Jan. 12, by Dr. Kirk Labor.

  Florien and Negreet received grants for the Dept. of Rural
Development.


  January 24, 2001

  The Ponder Street home of Robert and Connie Ammons was destroyed
by fire on Jan. 19. The couple escaped.

  Joseph Lee Sepulvado, 28, of Zwolle, pled guilty to a reduced
charge of manslaughter in the shooting death of Sgt. Todd Touchet
of Vermillion Parish.

  Susan Dean of Peoples State Bank won a Caribbean cruise from
Brookshires, and got engaged, all in the same week! Dean and her
fiancé, Chris Hills are now Mr. and Mrs.

  Luke Pearson was in training for participation in the National
Bike Ride for Family fund raiser, sponsored by Focus on the
Family. He was going to pedal over 200 miles in the state.

  VIP Night was celebrated at Pizza Hut, and Mayor Ken Freeman,
and district Attorney Don Burkett were among those in attendance.

  G. J. "Pie" Martinez was elected president of the Sabine Parish
School Board. Nadine Wooley of Negreet was elected vice
president.

  Donnie Wooley joined Peoples State Bank, as Assistant Vice
President of Ag Lending.

  David Hubley of Many Ford was named Salesman of the year by Gene
Smith, owner.


  January 31, 2001

  Construction of the new junior high in Many was put on hold, due
to excessive rains.

  Clint Miller was named 2001 Ambassador for WalkAmerica.

  Sabine Medical Center, and the La. Cooperative Extension Service
began a Diabetes Awareness Program.

  Stephon Joseph, a material witness in a capital murder case, is
missing. DA Don Burkett said the case couldn't go to court
without him.

  The Taylor House fund raiser at Cypress Bend had everyone
tapping their toes to the tunes of Harmon Drew Super Group.

  Centenary Student, Robert Brocato of Many, won the NIAF South
Central Regional Scholarship.

  Jared Martinez, and Roxie Meshell were elected Mr. and Miss
Ebarb High.

  The INDEX won the American Cancer Society's Best Print Single
Story in regional competition.

  Sabine State Bank donated $1,000 to Florien Development Co., for
the depot.


  February 7, 2001

  The City of Many received a grant for landscaping.

  Don Burkett was named Honorary Chairman of the 2001 WalkAmerica
campaign.

  The city received a $556,200 grant to overlay the runway at Hart
Airport.

  The Chamber of Commerce, under the leadership of President J. J.
Blake, slated an Opportunity and Career Expo on March 22.

  Mayor Ken Freeman announced his candidacy for his fourth term at
the head of city government.

  Florien High students Michael Leach, Justin Westfall, Bradley
Thaxton participated in the LHSRA rodeos.

  The Legislature recognized Teachers of the Year Janne Crews of
Many Elementary, Rebecca Loupe of Zwolle Intermediate, and Nancy
Lambert of Many High.

  The Many High Quiz Bowl teams competed in the Grant High
tourney.

  Many Elementary first graders celebrated 100 days of school.

  February 14

  Two fatalities were the result of a head-on collision on Highway
6, east of Many on Feb. 6. A truck driven by Steven W. Ebarb, 28,
of Noble, crashed into a truck driven by Patsy C. Rainer, 62,
also of Noble. Both died.

  A Many woman was charged after her first grade son inadvertently
brought a plastic bag of crack cocaine to school in his book bag.

  Ethel Rhodes of Many celebrated her 101st birthday on Valentines
Day.

  Karen Williams of the District Attorney's Office celebrated 10
years cancer-free on Feb. 8. Co-workers joined in a lunch,
marking the day.

  I. D. Bostian announced that he is seeking his fourth term on
the Many City Council.

  Boy Scouts from Troop 80 in Many, rebuilt a picnic table, and
added a hand railing on the back steps of Taylor House, as a
service project.

  The use of child safety seats was encouraged by District
Attorney Don Burkett.

  Many Police Chief Dean Lambert announced that he would not seek
re-election.

  Bond for Melvin Dewayne Joseph was set at $150,000. He has been
incarcerated since April 11, when he turned himself in.

  Groundhog Day saw parish students "shadowing" area businessmen
and women.

  The Many Rotary Club sponsored their annual pancake breakfast to
fund three $1,000 scholarships.

  At the Tiger Football Banquet, Darnell Williams was named
All-District, and All-State running back, and was Offensive Most
Valuable Player in District 4-2A.


  February 21, 2001

  Taylor House was purchased on Feb. 8, by the Sabine Foundation
for Save Families. Polly Dappen is president. The women's shelter
opened in 1996.

  Chief Lambert qualified in the last minute at the Clerk's
Office. He will be running against his son, Ron Lambert, a former
sheriff's deputy, Jerry Singletary, a former deputy, and the city
policeman, Roger Freeman.

  Arrested on federal drug warrants were Anthony Perry, 38, Dagel
Ebarb, 44, and Timothy Bass, 39, all of Zwolle. They are accused
of trafficking drugs from Houston.

  Shelly Bridges was crowned Miss Robeline Heritage Queen.

  Medical Center Pharmacy is participating in a heart failure
awareness program.

  Faye Gail Kennedy was unopposed in seeking her second term on
the Many City Council.

  Nick Garrett, and Latasha Johnson were invited to participate as
Sports Ambassadors during the summer.

  A frontier church service was hosted at Fort Jesup State
Historic Site. The Rev. Charlie Crews of the First United
Methodist Church, preached.

  La. Technical College, and the Sheriff's Dept. combined for
educational opportunities for inmates.


  February 28, 2001

  Claude D. Holbert Jr., 20, of Negreet, entered a guilty plea in
the Eleventh Judicial District Court, in connection with the
death of his three year old daughter, Julissa, in July 2000.

  Cypress Bend welcomed B.A.S.S. Top 150 fishermen to the lake.

  Mark Ussery announced his intention of seeking the
Councilman-At-Large position of the City Council.

  Students of the Year for Sabine Parish included Nathan Corley,
Florien High, Victoria Williams, Florien Intermediate, and Emily
Snelling, Converse Elementary.

  Benji Gullet and Bridget Rutherford were named Mr. and Miss
Converse High.

  Despite deaths of loved ones, the Many Tigers, coached by Clay
Corley, overcame trials and tribulations to be state runners-up
in Class 2A basketball.


  March 7, 2001

  The cast was chosen for "The Corn is Green", to be presented by
the Sabine Parish Players. Mary Bozeman directed.

  Mrs. Doris Cook, widow of former Sheriff George R. Cook, died on
March 4. She was 79.

  Sabine Parish joined DeSoto and Red River Parishes in forming
the Tri-Parish Drug Task Force. The are headquartered in Pleasant
Hill.

  Barbara Peterson is seeking the Alderman-At-Large spot on the
Many City Council.

  The Charles Enterkin family was nominated for the FCE Great
American Family award.

  Members of the First United Methodist Church of Many broke
ground for the new Family Life Center on Feb. 4.

  Megan Cook of Negreet received the Wal-Mart/Sam's Club
scholarship.

  VFW Post 4858 celebrated the burning of their mortgage note on
March 4.


  March 14, 2001

  Jeffery Lynn Williams, 28, of Ebarb, was killed in a storm on
March 12. A tree fell across his truck as he traveled on La. 482.

  Hart Airport's new terminal was dedicated.

  The Many Tigers, and the Florien Blackcats were headed to the
Top 28.

  City Bank and Trust Co. announced plans to establish a branch
bank in Many. Many Courts will be leveled to make way for the new
facility.

  Earline Williams was named Executive Director of the Sabine
Council on Aging, following the retirement of Frankie McBryde.

  Basketball stars Josh Crow and Nina Brandon were elected Mr. and
Miss Zwolle Hawk.

  Chief of Police candidate Ron Lambert was honored at a gathering
at the fairgrounds.


  March 21, 2001

  The surgical suite at Sabine Medical Center was unveiled, and
dedicated to the late Dr. N. U. Booker on March 23. His family
was in attendance.

  Bill Lewis was presented a conservation award at the 37th
Conservation Achievement recognition Banquet of the La. Wildlife
Federation.

  Repairs continues at Many Elementary, and Many High.

  Both the Tigers, and the Blackcats stumbled, and lost at the
Cajun Dome.


  March 28, 2001

  A group of ladies, who named their organization "Sew
Comforting", are stitching infant preemie, and burial gowns for
hospitals in the state.

  Scotty Carroll, and Kirstin Benevage were crowned the 4-H Penny
King and Queen.

  Samuel Cross, a retired educator was inducted into the Sabine
Parish Hall of Fame.

  The Achievement Award was presented to Dr. Dianna Ammons
Johnson, a lady scientist, professor, and Director of Research in
the Dept. of Ophthalmology at the University of Tennessee Health
Science Center in Memphis.

  Tyler Wilkerson and Terry Chris Cook Jr. were recognized with
the Accomplishment Award for rescuing a family on Toledo Bend.

  The Hall of Fame honored five posthumously. The were Cliff
Ammons, the father of Toledo Bend Lake, Dr. S. F. Fraser, who
founded Fraser Hospital in 1938 and practiced medicine for over
40 years in Many, Earthy Hightower, a local barber for over a
half century, T. M. "Pappy" Phillips, a 24 year sheriff who was
held in high esteem, and Melton Wright, who owned and operated
Piggly Wiggly and built a 30 year career in the grocery business.

  Young Authors were honored by the School Board.


  April 4, 2001

  Fifty five street dealers were arrested in a raid by the
Sheriff's Dept., as deputies upheld Sheriff Guffey Lynn
Pattison's "No-Tolerance" stance on drugs.

  Bruce Gandy was installed as the President of the Chamber of
Commerce.

  The City of Many honored the Many Tiger basketball team and
coaches at a rally downtown.

  Local businessman, Brue Alford, died on March 30, following a
lengthy illness.

  Candidates for City of Many offices addressed the local Rotary
Club.

  Courtney Pilcher was crowned Miss Battle of Pleasant Hill.


  April 11, 2001

  Many Mayor Ken Freeman was returned to office. Janet Spears, and
Barbara Peterson were elected aldermen, and Fay Kennedy, I. D.
Bostian, and John Hoagland went in unopposed.

  Victor Culbertson of Many was fatally injured in an accident at
Boise Cascade in Florien.

  Ron Lambert and Roger Freeman were thrown into a run-off for
Police Chief.

  Handicapped parking is aggressively being enforced by the Many
City Police, at the request of James Lee.

  Pleasant Hill recalls the 137th anniversary of the Red River
Campaign, with their annual celebration.

  Sarah House was honored with a plaque, following her retirement
as director of the Chamber of Commerce.

  Former Negreet basketball star, Ryan Vines, was making a name
for himself at Louisiana College.

  Cady Gregory was crowned Junior Miss Battle of Pleasant Hill.

  Dr. William Boyd of Many wrote an original Easter oratorio,
which was performed in Jackson.

  Wal-Mart's fund raiser for WalkAmerica was a "pie in the face".
Manager Phil Medine was a popular candidate.

  Week of the Child was celebrated by Head Start, with a carnival
for the children.


  April 18, 2001

  The City of Many and Harvey Crittenden clashed over the fountain
area on San Antonio Ave. Crittenden fell, and required medical
attention.

  Wanda Heflin, former INDEX bookkeeper accused of embezzlement,
was ordered to pay restitution in the sum of $196,000 to
Publisher Robert Gentry.

  A train-car wreck on the Texas Highway sent a woman and her baby
to a Shreveport hospital by helicopter.

  Birth certificates are now attainable at the Clerk's Office,
according to Clerk Dollie Knippers.

  Sugar and Spice, and Calvary Baptist Church presented their
second annual "Visions of His Glory".

  The Choctaw-Apache Indian Tribe hosted a Pow Wow near Ebarb.

  Lindsay Lockridge was named Sabine's Junior Miss.

  Josh McCormic of Many High was the top lifter in the lift-a-thon
fund raiser for the football team.

  Floyd Giblin was presented the Outstanding Community Service
Recognition Award by the Modern Woodman of the World.

  The Friends of Fort Jesup was organized.

  Victoria Williams was a finalist in the state Student of the
Year competition.

  Zwolle High won the district academic sweepstakes rating at
Literary Rally.


  April 25, 2001

  Rep. Joe Salter was honored at a fund raiser at Cypress Bend. He
has served Dist. 24, since 1986.

  WalkAmerica raised $28,000.

  Florien High received a $10,000 Learn and Serve for Proud About
Working for Success (PAWS) program.

  Fifth graders from across the parish participated in the Fourth
Annual Let's Go Fishing Day at Cypress Bend. The outing was
sponsored by the Sabine Parish School Board, and the La. Dept. of
Wildlife and Fisheries.

  In baseball, the Florien Blackcats beat Converse for the
District title with a 7-2 score.

  The Many Church of the Nazarene sponsored the Living Last
Supper.

  The Escott triplets, Michael, Michaela, and Matthew, turned two
years old.

  The second annual Good Friday Walk was hosted with walkers
carrying a wooden cross for six miles.


  May 2, 2001

  Dr. L. O. Tackett was honored by the Many Masonic Lodge, with
his 50 year membership pin.

  Viola Carruth, former Fisher Mayor, was named parade marshal for
the 26th Annual Sawmill Days festival on May 19.

  The death of infant Jacolbi Casey of Pleasant Hill was ruled
accidental. The baby was found under a sleeping man.

  The Florien Quiz Bowl team won the parish tournament, and
Blackcat captain Nathan Corley won All Tourney team honors, as
the high scorer.

  Willamette's District Forester Jimmy Sheffield was featured in
the 2001 annual report.

  Paul Morris, Country Agent, presented at the Rosepine Research
Station.


  May 9, 2001

  The groundbreaking for Highway 171 from Zwolle to Noble was
hosted on April 27.

  The Special Olympics was held at Many High.

  Queen Victoria met Robert Louis Stevenson (Kenny Rushing) at a
tea during Senior English at Many High. Melanie LaFleur is the
teacher.

  Kirsten Weirholt sang at Carnegie Hall, with the NSU Concert and
Chamber Choir.

  The SARC hosted an open house.

  Effective May 5, Mimi Stoker assumed new duties as the Area
Environmental Agent for Upper Red and Sabine River Basin. She was
home economist for 18 years.

  Ron Lambert was elected Chief of Police, with 56.75 percent of
the vote.

  Rosie Ebarb was recognized for over 1,000 volunteer hours by
Overton Brooks Veteran's Administration Medical Center. She
drives the shuttle van.

  Captain Cody Faust led the Many 8th Grade Quiz Bowl team to
victory in the parish competition.

  The Sullivan Family Anniversary Show was held May 19, at Rebel
Park.

  The Zwolle paddling case got national attention on the morning
talk shows.

  Jodie Williams and Chase Bossier were presented with the Honesty
and Integrity award from Mitchell Lodge No. 252.


  May 16, 2001

  The graduation supplement featured all of the parish grads.

  Melvin D. Joseph was released from jail, after being released
from monetary bond obligations, according to the District
Attorney.

  Geraniums were planted in the planters on San Antonio Ave.,
through an anti-litter grant.

  The Sabine River Authority listened to proposals concerning
artificial reefs.

  National Hospital week was celebrated by Sabine Medical Center,
with a fish fry.

  Jeremy Dillard of Robeline left on a two year mission with the
LDS Church.

  Zwolle Elementary students learned gourd art.


  May 23, 2001

  LEAP results were termed a nightmare due to wrong coding, which
resulted in confusing reports.

  Senior Circle Director Jenny Clifton hosted National Senior
Health and Fitness Day at the fairgrounds on May 30.

  The proposed sewer bill was the main topic of a Police Jury
meeting.

  Zwolle received $231,523 for street improvements from the La.
Community Development Block Grant program. Florien received
$270,813.

  Peoples State Bank honored the valedictorians and salutatorians
at a luncheon on May 17, at Griffin Lodge.

  The Southern Plainsmen celebrated their 23rd annual homecoming.

  The MJHS yearbook was dedicated to Coach Pete Gray, who was
killed in a tragic accident on April 8, 2000.

  Anna Cate Williams was named Central Louisiana FCA Athlete of
the Year. She is the 13 year old daughter of Malcom and Cherry
Williams.

  Jeff Austin was installed as the new president of the Many Lions
Club.

  Six Sabine students were state winners in the Young Authors
Contest. They were Marilyn Touchet and Justin Glover of Ebarb,
Justin Cooper of Converse, Lyla Cole of Negreet, and Chris
Carnline and Tim Thompson, both of Many High.

  A Japanese Exchange Team was welcomed by the Many Rotary Club.

  Nine teachers, and one Central Office employee retired. They
were Shelly Wiggins, Business Manager, and teachers Bill Thomas
and Ernestine Hamilton, both of Pleasant Hill, Shirley Salley and
Merilyn Booker, both of Many Elementary, Katherine Miller of
Negreet, Gloria Jones and Virginia Gatti, both of Zwolle, Imogene
Hagar of Zwolle Intermediate, and Carolyn Cook of Florien.


  May 30, 2001

  Many Postmaster, Randy Price, was named the Louisiana winner in
the Ben Franklin Community Newspaper and Postal Partnership Award
of Excellence. He was nominated by Robert Gentry, INDEX
publisher.

  Many High graduates presented John Curtis of Big Star with a
plaque. Curtis employs numerous high school students.

  The Sabine Parish Library kicked off the summer reading program,
"Zip Into the Future".

  Walter Meshell Sr. was named the Oldest Logger by the Loggers
and Forestry Festival.

  House Bill 1994 was pulled from the Legislature by the Sabine
River Authority. Sen. James David Cain says the bill is dead.

  Soap Making 101, Susan Dahlem of Many makes soap, and has
transformed her hobby into a thriving business. (My favorite is
Celestial Nights).

  The Little Flock Masonic Lodge No. 236 named Jodi Ramsey, and
Emmett Carais as the Honesty and Integrity Award winners.

  Shawn Moore of Many High won the Wal-Mart/Sam's Club
scholarship.

  The class of 2002 at Many High received their class rings in a
special ceremony.

  Rep. Joe Salter continues to provide informative Legislative
updates for his constituents in Sabineland.


  June 6, 2001

  Sabine State Bank kicked off their 100-year birthday celebration
with a reception, and lots of prizes.

  Darcia M. Skinner, 29, of Zwolle, died in a one vehicle accident
on the Belmont Road on June 2.

  A phone-a-thon was hosted by KWLA-KWLV to benefit Amy Malmay
Parrie, who was injured in an accident on Sept. 2, 2000.

  A 24 year old Mansfield man drowned on Toledo Bend Lake during a
Memorial Day outing.

  Cypress Bend hosted a Hawaiian luau for the Chamber's Business
After Hours.

  A new digital imaging system was installed at the Clerk's
Office.

  A 12' alligator was destroyed, with the owner's permission,
after petitions circulated in Zwolle. The alligators in Murdock
Pond had been crawling to town.

  Donya Durr became a certified Deputy Assessor, with the Tax
Assessor's Office.

  La. Technical College offered internet classes.

  Mikey Garcie of Ebarb High attended the HOBY Leadership Seminar.

  The Sabine FCE hosted the 70th Annual Convention at Cypress
Bend.

  The Many Police, and the Many Rotary Club teamed up to sponsor
the Bike Safety Workshop.


  June 13, 2001

  House Bill 1994, which would have established the Sabine Water
and Sewer Commission remained a hot topic.

  Toledo Bend claimed its second victim within six days. Rodney
Fletcher, 37, of DeRidder was checking his trot lines, and
apparently fell in the water and drowned. His body was found
three days after his wife reported him missing on June 3.

  Tori Tarver Flynn was named Director of Sales, Electronic
Banking, and Marketing.

  Garland Anthony joined Foy Motor Co.

  Infant Cameron Ebarb, 27 days, was found dead in bed with his
parents on June 10, in Zwolle. No charges were filed in the
death.

  Ryan W. Neel was killed on June 6, in a wreck on the Belmont
Highway. Speed was a contributing factor in the young man's
death.

  The Amy Malmay Parrie fund raiser brought in $7,968.

  Warrants for the arrests of B. G. Hillman, Cory Clifton, Roger
Lopez, Buddy Wood, and others were issued by Cardiac Arrest
Chairman Marcelle Slaughter, for the June 14 fund raiser.

  Elva Ezernack was crowned Miss Zwolle Loggers & Forestry
Festival Queen.

  Five Florien rodeo stars advanced to the state finals.

  Amanda Leach, a Many Elementary second grader, won a bike from
Shop Rite, for making straight A's.


  June 20, 2001

  Sabine Parish Sheriff Guffey Pattison was arrested - by the
Cardiac Arrest team.

  Frank Thomasee was appointed Florien Chief of Police.

  Mimi Stoker was honored at a reception, as she retired from her
Home Economist position with the LSU Extension Office.

  The Sales and Use Tax Commission Board encourages personal
contact, and aggressive collections with vendors.

  Plans remain on course for the development of a theme park on
the lake by TPO Investors. The 67 acre plot is located near
Toledo Bend, according to James Murphy, president.

  Pleasant Hill residents are battling snakes in the city limits.


  June 27, 2001

  Many City Clerk Loree Maxey, and Many Chief of Police Dean
Lambert, were honored at a retirement reception. Maxey had 30
years of service, and Lambert retired with 29 years.

  City Bank opened a branch office in Many, with John Godfrey as
the branch manager.

  A groundbreaking was hosted at Hart Airport. The National Guard
is doing dirtwork.

  Burger King had a new sign.

  Tax Assessor Carroll Ellzey purchased the No. 1 Forestry poster.

  Judge J. S. Pickett Jr. celebrated his 81st birthday.

  Local VFW posts planted trees in honor of veterans, as they
participated in Operation Silent Witness.

  A tennis clinic was hosted at the fairgrounds.


  July 4, 2001

  Chief Ron Lambert took the oath of office, with his wife Tanya,
and his newborn son Chandler by his side. Proud parents Dean and
Amanda Lambert looked on.

  Dean Crittenden, a talented actor with the Sabine Parish
Players, jetted to the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts for
training.

  The City of Many received an animal shelter grant for $51,000 to
build a facility.

  LTC Chancellor Bill Roden visited the Sabine Valley Campus, and
shared ideas and new directions for the school with Asst.
Director Barry Goss, and community leaders.


  July 11, 2001

  Rena L. Alford, 17, of Florien, was killed in a two vehicle
wreck on July 7, on Highway 171, near Hodges Gardens.

  Sommer Taylor was killed in a one vehicle accident on the
Negreet Road on July 2. She was a 16 year old student at Many
High.

  Edward Jones Investments opened a new office in the Beasley
Building on San Antonio Ave.

  Stephon Joseph continues to elude law enforcement officers.

  Attorney Bo Chevallier opened a new office in downtown Many.

  The summer reading program kids from the library hosted a Fourth
of July parade down the sidewalks of Many.


  July 18, 2001

  Lindsay Lockridge competed in the Junior Miss Pageant.

  Cypress Bend was named to La.'s Audubon Golf Trail.

  Tourism is increasing, says Don Bell, Director of the Chamber of
Commerce.

  The new Pilot Club president is Dorothy Alford.

  The Town of Zwolle hosted business After Hours, and served their
famous tamales.

  Randy and Stacey Walsworth are the new partners at Phares,
Lites, and Walsworth Insurance Agency.

  Merrill Cummings was honored on his retirement from LTC.


  July 25, 2001

  The death of Betty Loucious, 34, was under investigation in
Zwolle.

  A fish consumption advisory was issued for Toledo Bend.
Unacceptable levels of mercury have been detected in largemouth
bass.

  City Bank held their ribbon cutting.

  Curtis Bush died on July 18. He was a former Many City Council
member.

  Jonathan Neal attended the FBLA-PBL State Leadership Conference
national competition in Florida.

  This was the leg-breaking week for INDEX staffer Donna Ammons.
What a way to spend a vacation!!


  August 1, 2001

  Nathen Callens, 10, of Pleasant Hill, was injured in a four
wheeler accident.

  Sabine State Bank hosted Business After Hours.

  Dawn Glass performed at the Ark-La-Tex Music Show.

  The Sabine South All Stars placed second in the 11-12 year old
division at the Tri-District Tourney in Natchitoches. Joe Rivers,
Buddy Wood, and Jess Curtis were the coaches.

  T. J. Phillips of Florien, and Kimberly Acklin of Many, attended
Camp Discovery at Northwestern State University.


  August 8, 2001

  Harold Shane Baker, and Lee Garrett Brandon, both of Zwolle,
were arrested in connection with the death of Betty Loucious.

  A new route for Highway 171 through Many? The City Council
suggested an easterly route, and some residents became upset.

  Chris Rodrigues and Davy Ammons, seniors at Many High, attended
La. Boys State in Baton Rouge. They represented American Legion
Post 172.

  John Migliore of Allstate Insurance was named a personal
financial representative.

  Mrs. Josephine Dees turned 105 on August 2. She resides in IHS
of Many.

  Taryn Wright, 15, of Florien, attended Model Search of America
in Alexandria.


  August 15, 2001

  The Back-To-School issue, filled with all kinds of stories, was
published.

  Kasey Crittenden, chairman of Relay for Life, kicked off this
year's campaign.


  August 22, 2001

  Johnnie Belle Vandegaer died on August 16, at the age of 100.
She was the widow of J. B. Vandegaer, a son of one of Many's
original settlers. Mrs. J. B. Entertained General Patton during
the La. maneuvers.

  Willamette in Zwolle won two national safety awards, according
to Bobby Rivers, plant manager.

  Big Star continued donating one percent of their sales receipts
collected to non-profit organizations.


  August 29, 2001

  The Chamber of Commerce was awarded a $10,000 capital outlay
grant to build a new office.

  The Village of Pleasant Hill received a forestry grant in the
amount of $5,000.

  A new elementary school was unveiled at Converse.

  Blake Isgitt got the nod as starting quarterback for the Many
Tigers.


  September 5, 2001

  A double tragedy struck the Chance family of Florien. Killed in
a one vehicle accident on the Plainview Road on August 31, were
first cousins, Kody Chance, 16, and Quisto Chance, 15. Both were
students at Hornbeck High.

  Dr. L. O. Tackett, 81, died on August 31. His chiropractic
career spanned 40 years.

  Lake Charles artist Felix Falgoust designed the 17th annual
Tamale Fiesta poster.

  Ken Freeman was honored by the SARC Board for serving six years.

  Sabine Medical Center conducted a disaster drill.


  September 12, 2001

  Greg Everett was starring as Falstaff in "The Merry Wives of
Windsor", which was presented in the Rose Garden at Hodges
Gardens.

  Following the Sept. 11 national tragedy, employees of Sabine
Medical Center gathered for an 11:30 a.m. prayer service.
Thousands throughout the parish gathered at the television sets
to watch the replay of airplanes crashing into the Twin Towers in
New York City.

  Henry Anthony Ebarb and wife Liisa of Prescott, Ariz., are
sponsoring the Tamale Fiesta poster.

  Moore Cash, owned by Linda Moore, opened on Sept. 10.

  The Many VFW donated an automated external defibrillator to Peg
Leg Volunteer Fire Dept.


  September 19, 2001

  This issue of the INDEX was in tri-color, with red, white, and
blue gracing the front page. A story about how the parish
responded to the Sept. 11 tragedy was on page one.

  The Women in Action for Christ of Trinity Baptist Church,
donated 50 stuffed animals to the Many City Police in memory of
Sommer Taylor.

  A petition to remove Linda Curtis-Sparks as Executive Director
of the Sabine River Authority began circulating on the lake. The
petition alleged mismanagement, misinformation, and selfish
interest.


  September 26, 2001

  Larry Cryer was named the Tamale Fiesta King of this year's
Zwolle celebration, His wife Mary was named First Lady. The
couple, who lived in Zwolle, now reside in Ruston.

  Dustin Bell, 17, of Florien, and a friend smelled smoke at his
aunt's trailer, and discovered the clothes dryer was smoldering.
Young Bell and his buddy prevented a tragedy.

  Old Parish Publishing reprinted a book on local history about
the wars.

  Robert Gentry, INDEX Publisher, was recognized for 35 years of
service to the National Weather Service. A citation rewarded his
volunteer work.

  The Many Tigers beat Leesville, 26-18.


  October 3, 2001

  October was Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

  Creativity and good casting highlighted "The Merry Wives of
Windsor".

  At the Senior Citizens' Fair Day, Catherine Chambers was crowned
Golden Lady, and Gene Elkins was crowned Silver Gent.

  Sheriff Guffey Pattison was the Grand Marshal of the Oct. 13,
Fiesta Parade.

  The ground was broken on Sept. 25, for the Sabine Retirement and
Rehabilitation Center, south of Williams Bros.

  Rebecca Dzeikan was named Honorary Chairman for the Oct. 19
Relay for Life, which benefits the American Society.

  C & S Oil Shop officially opened on Sept. 28. Cullen and Steve
Parker are the owners.

  The Many Tigers beat Winnfield, and continued a string of wins.

  Wade Seegers graduated from Bossier Parish Community College's
Criminal Justice Institute. He was vice president of his class,
and received the academic award. Seegers also scored expert in
firearms.

  Twins Justin and Joshua Farmer were chosen Fiesta pages.


  October 10, 2001

  Jimmy Carnline was named a Top Listing and Top Sales Agent with
Century 21 Sabine Property Shoppe for January through June.

  Wild Horse Ministries, with Paul Dailey, who ministers through
wild horses, was slated to appear at the Fiesta.

  Dredging on Toledo Bend was underway. The machines are removing
the soil from the lake so boats can be launched.

  Teachers of the Year were named as follows: Rebecca Paul Cooper,
Ebarb Elementary Teacher of the Year, Johanna Tannehill Faust,
Many Junior High Teacher of the Year, and Lisa D. Rougeo,
Pleasant Hill High School Teacher of the Year.

  Herman Love, and Frank Tomasee were seeking the office of Chief
of Police in Florien.

  Jackie Cooper, a MHS senior, was crowned Homecoming Queen.


  October 17, 2001

  It's been almost a year, and the Roy Millers of Pleasant Hill
were still sighting crosses in their bathroom window. The marvel
has drawn hundreds.

  District Attorney Don Burkett offered a reward for information
on the culprits who started an arson fire at the home of Aline
and Oliver Sibley.

  Rep. Joe Salter was inducted into the Hall of Distinguished
Educators at Northwestern State University.

  The INDEX was full of Tamale Fiesta coverage.

  Many Junior High fifth graders collected for the New York City
Disaster Relief Fund.

  Donald Brett Paddie of Noble, and Jennifer Faith Meshell-Lowe of
Zwolle, were recipients of the Ellis and Melva Juanita Martinez
Coutee Scholarship at NSU.


  October 24, 2001

  Anthrax is all over the news, and even Sabine Parish had a scare
on Oct. 13, when a suspicious substance was found in a roll of
quarters at Nichols Discount.

  Herman Love was elected Florien Chief.

  The members of the First United Methodist Church of Many
dedicated their new 9,000 square foot Family Life Center on Oct.
27.

  Wal-Mart Manager Phil Medine and associates honored all local
law enforcement officers and firefighters.

  Sabine Raceway honored drivers on Oct. 20.

  Sabine State Bank presented $1,000 to Supt. Of Schools Dan
Leslie, for use in advertising and sports, etc.

  Dennis Hubbard was named Vice President of Information Systems
at Sabine Bank.

  Sabine Parish rallied around three year old Donnie Meshell, who
is suffering from cancer. A love fund was established at Peoples
State Bank.

  Head Start Awareness Month was observed.

  Class Presidents at Many High were elected as follows: Anna Cate
Williams, 8th, Adam Founds, 9th, Paul Ammons, 10th, Verity
Gentry, 11th, and Amanda Bray 12th. Student Council President is
Denelle Walker.


  October 31, 2001

  The first Parent-Teacher Conference of the year was well
attended throughout the schools.

  The Sabine Freestate poster was unveiled on Oct. 26, at Cypress
Bend.

  Century-Tel offered phones to Sabine Parish School Board for the
buses.

  The Community Advisory Council heard updates from the School
Board supervisor on Oct. 23.

  Johnson Sandel was named Grand Marshal of the Freesatate parade.

  Nichols Dept. Stores are closing in Many, Natchitoches, Zwolle,
and Oakdale.

  Cub Scout Pack 331 was reactivated with Bridget Hicks as Pack
Committee Chairman, and Kim Eaves a Cubmaster.

  The Town of Zwolle, and representatives of the forestry and
Loggers' Festival, and the Tamale Fiesta broke ground on their
new property on Oct. 27.

  A vigil for victims of domestic violence was hosted on Oct. 25,
on the Courthouse lawn.

  Fred's re-opened after a remodeling project.


  November 7, 2001

  Dr. Warren Founds was honored as the Rural Practitioners of the
Year, by the La. Rural Health Association on Oct. 22. He is the
longest practicing physician in Sabine Parish, who still
maintains a private practice. Dr. Founds is 81.

  The Florien Floriculture team placed fourth in the nation. Team
members, Brooke Jeffres, Cody Goodman, Josh Dahlem, and Erin
McLendon, are coached by John Sandel.

  Bob Clark, and Floyd Lopez were honored as grand marshals of
Many's Veteran's Day Parade.

  The Tiger Band seniors, Christina Rutherford, Ginger O'Briant,
Davy Ammons, and Jonathan Grantham, were honored.

  The MHS Tigers are 4-2A champs!!!

  The Many Rotary Club sponsored a blanket drive. Sarah House is
president.

  This issue of the INDEX was filled with pictures of veterans and
their stories.


  November 14, 2001

  La. State Trooper Jeff Evans was named Public Safety Official of
the Year by the Sabine Parish Chamber of Commerce. He was honored
at the Nov. 9, banquet.

  Death claimed Viola Carruth, former Mayor of Fisher. A
well-known journalist, Mrs. Carruth was author of "Caddo: 1,000".

  Arthur Killian was charged in the shooting death of Donovan West
in an ongoing dispute over a hunting lease.

  Sabine Medical Center hosted a ceremony to honor American war
veterans.

  Former NSU Coach Tynes Hildebrand was the guest speaker at the
Chamber of Commerce.

  The Sabine Parish Sales and Use Tax Commission heard a
management study.

  Zwolle students planted a red, white, and blue garden.

  Basketball season was underway across Sabineland.

  The Florien City Council faced a dilemma, whether to force the
new chief to adhere to a village ordinance: no fulltime
employment when serving as chief.

  C. B. Funderburk, former owner of the Starlite Motel, died on
Nov. 8.

  La. Technical College, Sabine Valley Campus, won the city's
Scarecrow Contest.

  "Traditions of Christmas" was the theme announced for the annual
Christmas parade.


  November 21, 2001

  Gloria Loetscher of Water's Edge Nursery accepted the engraved
plaque for Small Business of the Year from the Chamber of
Commerce.

  On Nov. 14, a one vehicle wreck killed Joseph Boyens, 25, of
Many. He was owner of Audio Alley.

  Within 24 hours, Sabine Parish had another fatality. Esther Ruth
Miller, 55, was killed on Highway 6 East, in the city limits.

  Fisher honored the late Viola Carruth with the lighting of the
water tank on Nov. 23.

  "The Wonder of Christmas" was presented by the Community Choir.
Carole Troha directed.

  Area schools supported the Crippled Children's Hospital in
Shreveport, by selling spirit chains and collecting donations.

  A host of coeds were competing for the title of Miss Merry
Christmas at Many High. Wendy DeLatin was crowned.

  The American Legion Banquet was hosted on Nov. 10. Post
Commander Bob Smith introduced Boys and Girls State
Representatives Davy Ammons, and Amanda Bray. Titus Pruitt was
named post chaplain.

  A terrorism seminar, featuring a panel of experts, was hosted on
Nov. 13. The idea was Kusum John's, and the city sponsored the
event at the new Family Life Center. Mayor Ken Freeman offered
the welcome.


  November 28, 2001

  Christmas on the Bend was celebrated on the lake.

  Retired Judge and Mrs. John S. Pickett Jr. were parade marshals
of the Many Christmas Parade.

  Negreet students led the way in the parish with a 19.8 average
on the ACT.

  An industrial park was discussed at Many City Council.

  The Tigers staged an impressive comeback over Springhill, but
lost in OT, 41-40.

  The Big Bass award was presented to Wes Fredieu by the Many Bass
Club.

  From the colorful costumes to tamale making, the INDEX had
extensive Fiesta coverage.

  A fund raiser for the Humane Society was hosted.

  Pack 331 Cub Scouts donated food to Taylor House.

  Converse SADD students recognized community leaders.


  December 5, 2001

  Ben Festervand was honored at his Eagle Scout Court of Honor at
Clara Springs. He is a member of Troop 80 Boy Scouts of Many.

  A portion of the Courthouse basement flooded, but Clerk of Court
Dollie Knippers said the records were safe.

  A Garrison Ball was hosted at Fort Jesup on Dec. 8.

  Jim Hyde and Jim Quayhagen were double-cast as Scrooge in "A
Christmas Carol".

  The lights in Many were illuminated, and Moonlight Madness was
held, as the townspeople welcomed Christmas with a parade and
festivities at the fairgrounds.

  Chief Ron Lambert aided with the USMC Toys for Tots.

  The results of a survey about Sabine Parish was released by the
Chamber.

  Video Land in Many opened its doors.

  Shrine Tournament was hosted at Many High.

  Zwolle juniors Valerie Remedies and Kirt Rivers were awarded the
Honesty and Integrity Award by the Zwolle Lodge.


  December 12, 2001

  Joe Salter was named Representative of the year by the La.
Federation of Teachers.

  Glenwood Bullard was elected chairman of the Sales and Use Tax
Commission. Bruce Gandy was elected vice chairman.

  Michael Garner was charged with aggravated arson in the Oct. 3
Sibley case in Many.

  Aeropres hosted a training for fire chiefs.

  Trelia Sepulvado of Belmont had her wish come true by the Make A
Wish Foundation.


  December 19, 2001

  Fisher policeman Terry Pantalion was shot in a traffic stop on
Dec. 17. The suspect fled, and was later stopped after a 15 mile
chase. Before he could be arrested, Lee Allen Hiers, 24, of South
Carolina killed himself.

  The INDEX had color on the front page of the 62 page Christmas
edition.

  The Florien Council was still deciding what to do about their
police chief issue.

  The 14th annual Memorial Tree of Remembrance program was hosted
at Warren Meadows Funeral Home.

  Plenty of Christmas Parade coverage was found inside the pages
of the huge issue.

  Darnell Williams was Offensive Most Valuable Player of District
4-2A. Several others were named to the All District teams.

  Page after page of Santa Letters were sent to the North Pole,
via the pages of the INDEX.


  December 26, 2001

  The New Baby of the Year contest was announced.

  The investigation over the shooting was tied up, but a motive
for the shooting of Officer Pantalion and then the suicide of the
suspect, remains a mystery.

  Tara Davis of Florien graduated from NSU with a perfect 4.0. Law
school is in her future.

  Rep. Joe Salter was named chairman of the Rural Legislative Task
Force.

  "A Christmas Carol" was presented at the Sabine Theater.

  The Ark-La-Tex Music Show, produced by Rod Hopkins, featured
Christmas music.

  The Florien City Council filed a writ of mandamus, which will
force a judge to rule the ordinance valid or invalid, and settle
the chief dispute about fulltime work.

  The staff of the INDEX wished all a Happy New Year.
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