Local History: Headlines From the Sabine Index - 1999, Sabine Parish Source: Sabine Index, Many, La., Jan 5, 2000 Submitted by: Carl Dilbeck carlrad@earthlink.net ********************************************************** ********************************************** Copyright. All rights reserved. http://usgwarchives.net/copyright.htm http://usgwarchives.net/la/lafiles.htm ********************************************** ************ by DONNA SMITH AMMONS Special Assignments At the close of each year, the INDEX takes a look back over the issues and recalls events that have had an impact on living in Sabine Parish. There are happy and sad stories that have come across our desks in 1999 and we offer them to you as we print "A Year at a Glance" to close out the last year of the decade. Jan. 6, 1999 * Former Zwolle Mayor Raymond Walraven died suddenly on Jan. 4. He served for two terms from 1974-1982. * Front page headlines detailed the impending execution of convicted killer Dobie Gillis Williams of Many. He was convicted of brutally slaying Sonya Knippers in July 1984. * Loree W. Maxey was accepted a the 321st member into the second sustaining membership of the International Institute of Municipal Clerks Academy for Advanced Education. * The New Year's Day shooting of 34-year-old James M. Rowe of Many was ruled accidental. * 1998 Zwolle Fiesta Queen Julie Ann Stewart visited the Pecan Festival in Colfax. * R. T. Graham was honored by the Mitchell Masonic Lodge No. 252 for 50-year membership. * Kellie Renee Speight was featured in a photo lay-out of the Negreet Miss Merry Christmas Pageant. She was this year's winner. * The family of the late Dr. V. M. John sponsored a Sharing Our Blessings Christmas Dinner for the needy. * Amanda West of Negreet won first place in the 8th grade Conservation Essay Contest, sponsored by the Sabine Soil and Water Conservation District. * Mary Cryer, a member of the Board of Directors of the Tamale Fiesta, was honored for her service. She and her husband relocated to Ruston. Jan. 13, 1999 * "Dobie Williams executed" screamed the headlines in the second edition of 1999. An eyewitness account from Angola, a story detailing the crime and Williams' endless dates with death, plus a statement from District Attorney Don Burkett were among the lead stories. * Jerry McDonald was named president of the Sabine Parish Police Jury for a fifth term. * Plans for condominium housing and the interior scheme of the Cypress Bend Hotel were revealed by the developers, American Liberties Hospitality Inc. * The Village of Florien reached a settlement with state agencies on its lawsuit over being labeled a "speed trap" in the 1998 Louisiana Tour Guide. * The first of a series of articles concerning school uniforms was presented. * Harold Stewart of Ebarb was elected president of the Sabine Parish School Board. Many boardsman Roderick Davis was elected vice president. * Roger Lopez was sworn in as Zwolle Mayor on Dec. 31, 1998. He assumed office Jan. 1. * The first baby of 1999 in Sabine Parish was Jewel Moss, who was born in Natchitoches at 3:27 a.m. on Jan. 1. Jan. 20, 1999 * An early morning blaze on Jan. 13 claimed the life of 68-year-old Earl Lewing of Many. * Sabine Parish Sheriff's Department personnel were investigating the shooting death of Edward L. Carnline, 52, at his Sid Faust Road home. Carnline's body was discovered Jan. 19. * Customers of the Ebarb Water District getting service from Cypress Bend water treatment plant were advised to boil their water. * The Second Annual Candlelight Vigil hosted to benefit Taylor House was being planned. * The new Many water tower on Highway 6 East was dedicated. The construction was through a Louisiana Community Block Grant. * Dave Conejo was named interim CEO at Sabine Medical Center. * Registrar of Voters Kristi McCormick announced that 281 citizens who had not voted in the last two federal elections were removed from the rolls. * The Sabine Parish Library was teaching a class on the Internet. * Dr. Frederick S. Cramer, a surgeon who practiced in Many for two years, closed his office. * Citizens in Many participated in the Martin Luther King Jr. Day March on Jan. 18. A program followed at Many Junior High. * Vivian Herrington of Florien, longtime contributor to the INDEX, died on Jan. 17. * Ben Larry Isgitt announced his candidacy for sheriff. * Many Attorney Bill Boone plead guilty Jan. 25 to charges of unauthorized use of a moveable. * Eric Dean Oxley, 19, of Robeline was charged with second degree murder in the shooting death of Eddie Carnline. * An inmate who walked off a litter detail in Vernon Parish on Jan. 21 was recaptured after several hours of freedom. The inmate was returned to the Detention Center. * A total of 47,500 make-up one cent stamps were sold at the Many Postoffice. * Jimmie Collier was named Employee of the Year at Sabine Medical Center. * The Florien Blackcats and the Anacoco Lady Indians won the Negreet Tournament. * Sandra Lee Edwards, executive direction of the Family Resource Center, has established an office at Project Celebration. * MedExpress Ambulance Service Inc. began operation in Sabine Parish on Feb. 1. * Danny Warmack, president of the Toledo Bend Christian Anglers, extended an invitation for new members. Feb. 3, 1999 * Rain saturated Sabine Parish on Jan. 28-29 and one fatality in Florien was attributed to flash flooding. * Andrew Chachere Pousson was named the 1999 Ambassador for the March of Dimes WalkAmerica campaign. * Local actress Mary Bozeman was preparing to entertain local audiences with her one-woman show, "Sim" at the Sabine Theater. * The candlelight vigil to benefit Taylor House was deemed a success. Families of Paul Prins and Shreveport's Miranda Salley were honored. * Kevin Williams was named Most Valuable Player of the 1998 Tiger football team at the annual banquet, Jan. 25. Williams scored a record 23 touchdowns and rushed for over 1,100 yards, leading the team to a 9-1 season. * A car driven by Faye M. Forshee, plowed into the Quality Stamp Store on Jan. 20, causing extensive damage to merchandise, the building and her vehicle. Feb. 10, 1999 * The Sabine Parish Police Jury voted to ask District Attorney Don Burkett to prepare a statement relating to the EWD water payments. The request came after a two-year struggle between the district's governing board and its paid manager. * James Carson Rivers, 65, of Zwolle died unexpectedly Feb. 4. A former Fiesta King, Rivers was involved with the Dixie Youth Baseball program. A veteran of Vietnam, he founded J. C. & E Enterprise Inc. Logging. * Zwolle native Harold Leone published Chanchis, a historical book on the early settlers of Sabine Parish. * Authorities continued the search for Scottie Rivers Ferguson of Zwolle. She and her estranged husband, Ruel, had been missing since Nov. 2. * Crissy Sepulvado reigned over the ZHS homecoming festivities. Feb. 17, 1999 * A Valentines Day blaze destroyed the Miller Bay Point home of INDEX Editor Harold LeBoeuf and wife Pam. * 1999 WalkAmerica Honorary Chairman Dollie Knippers was honored at the kick-off breakfast on Feb. 18. * Jeff Austin of the Many Lions Club announced that the Kelly Miller Circus will be coming to Many on April 9. * Pete Abington was featured on the cover of ADs Parish Yellow Pages. * ARC of Sabine now has a new line of wood products for sale. Picnic tables, flower boxes, wooden chests, picture frames and bird houses are a few items available. * The Sabine Council on Aging four-year plan was rejected. The board now has a month to submit a new plan. * Verda Mains, president-elect of the Many Pilot Club, presented a $1,200 check to Taylor House on Feb. 12. * A 14-year-old Negreet teen, Brogan Edwards, received second and third-degree burns over more than half his body and suffered internal injuries in a freak accident at his home Feb. 6. Feb. 24, 1999 * The School Board voted 5-3 against creating a Sales Tax District, which would help finance the construction of a new junior high. * A $10 million bond issue will enable Cypress Bend Resort to be completed says the SRA. The 66 room hotel is 90 percent complete. * Brenda Bray shared her story of a gambling addiction with readers. * Project Celebration received a $5,000 grant from the March of Dimes. * Zwolle's Candis Rivers became a published poet with "The Song of the Flute." * Groundhog Job Shadow Day was hosted in Sabine Parish on Feb. 3. Eighth-graders from five schools worked in businesses in the community. * Boy Scout Sunday was celebrated at the First United Methodist Church of Many on Feb. 14. * Kellie Ezernack and Natalie Sepulvado were selected as Students of the Month at Ebarb. * Harley Norman of Converse won second place in the LACD state conservation poster contest. * Negreet's golf team will host the Boys' State Golf Tournament at Emerald Hills. March 3, 1999 * Mary Both Tarver was elected president of the Police Jury Association of Louisiana. She became the second woman to serve in that position in the PJA's 75-year history. * The Police Jury is seeking ways to prevent illegal dumping at solid waste disposal sites. * The Many City Police received a grant for a new patrol car. Officer Polly Dappen penned the grant which was approved by the U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs. * J.B. Meyers of Pendleton Harbor rescued two Leesville men from the chilly waters of Toledo Bend on Feb. 22. Waves had swamped their boat. * A Zwolle family escaped serious injury followed a tainted food order from a Many fast food restaurant on Feb. 26. * An immigrant from a small village in Mexico died at the Many Courts. * Louis Cain Pest Control merged with Terminex. * Twelve students at LTS-Sabine Valley Campus received pins for completing the nursing assistants program. March 10, 1999 * Andy and Tallie Sherfield of Zwolle and their attorney, C. Rodney Harrington, of Natchitoches hosted a press conference concerning the tainted food they received at McDonald's in Many. * Pat Gandy, a Many native, was named CEO at Sabine Medical Center. He has over 30 years of experience in the healthcare field. * Retired 11th Judicial District Judge John Pickett Jr, was named the 1999 inductee into the Sabine Parish Hall of Fame. * A state appeals court rejected a request for a rehearing on a battery conviction of Sabine coroner, Dr. Garland Miller of Zwolle. * Questions about the SRA's spending procedures were raised following a state legislative audit. * Rep. Joe Salter planned a fundraiser for March 11. Sheriff Guffey Lynn Pattison donated a pig barn to the Sabine Parish Fairgrounds. * Dr. Samih Jarjour announced the opening of his office in internal medicine and family practice. His office is located in Zwolle. * Shirley Rivers of Many and Amanda Salter of Florien were inducted into NSU's chapter of Phi Delta Kappa. * Ed's Sheet Metal won the President's Club award from Duro-Last Roofing, Inc. * Headlining the first show of Music on Main Street were Staci Stewart, Robin Barnhill and Mike Morris. * Recognized as Sabine Parish Students of the Year were Lee Laurence, a Converse fifth-grader; Megan Bell, a Many High eighth grader; and Elizabeth Dowden, a Negreet senior. * Romance novelist Jennifer Blake was slated to host a forum at the Library on March 12. March 7, 1999 * Tom Fore Phillips, a Baton Rouge attorney was selected to receive the Sabine Parish Hall of Fame Achievement Award. * Many hair stylist Peter Morvan died March 14 following a sudden illness. * Frankie McBryde was named interim director at Sabine Council on Aging. * Inmate labor from the Sabim Parish Sheriff's Department helped build a press box/concession stand for the Many Tiger baseball team. * Travis Ebarb was selected as Willamette's Safe Employee for February. * The Berry Patch, a new gift shop on the Texas Highway, celebrated its grand opening. * The Academy of Dance won sweepstakes at Louisiana Spectacular. * 796 teams fished the Louisiana Oilmen's Invitational on Toledo Bend during the first weekend in March. * Lt. Debbie Adair and Margaret Basco began plans for an April 15 Violence Prevention workshop. * Cypress Bend Hotel, a luxury hotel on the shores of Toledo Bend, began welcoming guests. * MJHS sponsored the annual Science Fair. Mary Jo Wright coordinated the event. * The Sew Crafty Quilters were busy stitching quilts for Project Linus. * The Zwolle Logging and Forestry made presentations to Ebarb and Zwolle schools and Zwolle Dixie Youth. Albert Ezernack made the presentations. * The Pleasant Hill Science Fair had numerous winners. March 24, 1999 * The Hall of Fame Banquet was set for March 25. Leslie Rivers was the Hall of Fame Accomplishment winner. * A three-vehicle accident near Toledo Town claimed the life of Paul Sparish. * The Sabine Parish School System introduced the idea of "Books for Newborns." All new babies will receive a book, signed by Superintendent Dan Leslie and distributed by the Health Unit. * The Hitchin' Post celebrated 35 years in business during a two day celebration on March 19-20. Jan Varnado is the owner. * Sabine Property Shoppe, an affiliate of Century 21 and owned by Ronnie and Polly Brandon, officially opened in downtown Many. * Doctors in Sabine Parish were pictured on a full-page ad in celebration of Doctors' Week, March 28-April 2. * Kyle Hornsby of Anacoco was featured in an article about Indiana basketball. March 31, 1999 * The Cypress Bend Hotel officially opened following ribbon-cutting ceremonies and a by-invitation only reception March 27. * Former SARC administrator Nellie Leone was slated to go before the state Board of Pardons April 20. She was seeking early release from a three-year sentence for bilking the government out of more than $200,000. * Acadian Ambulance withdrew services from the parish on April 1. * Gail Stewart, a newly-licensed cosmetologist, joined Rita's Nail Boutique/Hair Gallery. * April Seegers was presented the Wall Street Journal Student Achievement Award at NSU. * The MHS Band won Sweepstakes honors at the SMEA District II contest on March 17. The Cinch Up Riding Club hosted their first rodeo. * Mayor Ken Freeman reminded citizens to "Get Off Your Fanny and Clean Up Many." April 7, 1999 * The Grace Avenue railroad crossing in Florien faces closure according to the DOTD. * Former Louisiana Tech stand-out Clay Hopkins and former NSU star kicker Shane Barbaro were both playing a pre-season game for the Regional Football League. Hopkins was with the Shreveport Knights and Barbaro was with the New Orleans Thunder. * MHS English teacher Melanie LaFleur was named 1999 High School Teacher of the Year by the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities. * The cast for "See How They Run" was announced by Mary Bozeman, director. * "Live Your Dream in Sabine" was the theme of the 53rd installation banquet of the Chamber of Commerce. * Gary Merten was honored for his many years of service as chief of the Aimwell Fire Station. * The MHS Science Olympiad team, coached by Carolyn Martin Kayla Hopkins, placed second in regional competition and earned the right to compete at state. * Jake Morris of MHS won a national Beta Club scholarship. * Troop 80 Boy Scouts won the Natchitoches Top Gun Shoot-Out on March 27. * Four Tiger seniors - Seth Freeman, Patrick French, Terrace White and Casey Sanders - lead the way as top lifters in the Tiger Lift-athon fundraiser on March 17. April 14, 1999 * The Kelly Miller Circus was in town for two performances, sponsored by the Many Lions Club. Lions President Les Crowson rode an elephant in the Circus on Parade portion of the show. * The recreation of the Village of Pleasant Hill was just one of the unique attractions at the 135th celebration ot the Civil War Battle on April 17-18. * Charles Soileau was named assistant district attorney of the 11th Judicial District. * Rep. Joe Salter was named to the Rural Caucus. * Three MJHS coeds participated in the regional science fair at NSU. Laney Martin, Wendy DeLatin and Sandra Ward entered their projects in the competitions. * Character Counts and a two-page spread in the INDEX let readers know all about the six pillars and what the schools are doing to promote the program. * A living Last Supper was presented at the First United Methodist Church of Many. * James Wyatt, assistant boys basketball coach at Many High, was named to NSU's All Century Team. * Anne S. Thompson of Many was nominated as an ageless hero, a state program that recognizes active seniors. * The INDEX won six La. Press Association awards. April 21, 1999 * The bodies of Ruel and Scottie Ferguson were discovered on a secluded logging road, two miles south of Zwolle on April 15. The couple had been sought since their Nov. 2 disappearance. * This issue of the INDEX had a price since it was the historical publication. * VFW Post 4858 released 100 red, white and blue balloons in celebration of the organization's 100th birthday on April 17. * Rep. Joe Salter was appointed chairman of the Legislative Bureau of the Legislature. * Florien was awarded a $225,000 demonstrated needs grant from the Louisiana Community Development Block Grant program. * Fred Wagley was the top ticket-seller for the Lions Club-sponsored circus. * Jim Cole, past president of the Many Lions Club, presented a check to the La. Lions Crippled Children's Camp during a pre-circus performance on April 9. * Historical stories about Many, Pleasant Hill, Negreet, Toledo Bend and the lumber industry were featured. April 28, 1999 * Former SARC director may be released early. The state Board of Pardons showed leniency for Nellie Leone, 66, who is serving the third year of a 10-year sentence for tax evasion and felony theft. * The La. Supreme Court recently refused to reduce the murder conviction of Benny S. Penegar of Zwolle, who killed his wife in front of their children in 1997, * Sabine Manufactured Homes, owned by Randy and Mona Sandel, celebrated its grand opening on March 19. * Waters Edge Nursery is the parish's newest business. Owner Gloria Loetscher snipped the ribbons on April 16. * Keith and Cindy Clay opened Clay's Oil Shop on the Texas Highway. * The Rotary Club hosted visitors from Brazil on April 15. A gathering was held in the home of Don and Virginia Burkett. * Carson Baptist Church welcomed their new pastor and family, the Rev. and Mrs. Bill Craft. * The Peoples Law School, coordinated by Many attorney Casey Simpson, was slated to begin April 29. * The Zwolle High Quiz Bowl team, captained by Sarah Russell, won the parish competition. * Madison Jones, a second grader at Many Elementary, collected $250 for St. Jude's. * "See How They Run" was another hit for the Sabine Parish Players. Teamed up for more laughs were Dean Crittenden and Jim Quayhagen. The talents of newcomer Vickie Weaver were discovered and everyone agreed Dr. Chuck Boudreaux is a gutsy guy. * Rennie's Hair Design opened for business on the Negreet Road. * Coverage of an awards ceremony hosted in the Governor's Mansion by the La. Endowment for the Humanities honored Melanie LaFleur. * Converse School District was gearing up for a bond issue for new construction. May 5, 1999 * Sabine State Bank's Toledo Bend branch was robbed at gun point. A detailed description of the gunman, who left a makeshift bomb, was provided. He escaped with an undisclosed amount of cash. * The Third Circuit Court of Appeals, which includes Judge Elizabeth Pickett, sat in Many, May 5-6. * Over $27,000 was raised by the Sabine Parish WalkAmerica for the March of Dimes on May 1. * School Superintendent Dan Leslie issued statements on school safety following the Colorado school tragedy. * Miranda, a toddler who was killed by her father in Shreveport, was remembered at the Violence Prevention Workshop. Her grandmother was the keynote speaker. * Sabine Medical Center introduced a new certified mammography system. * The Converse School District approved a 20-year $2.2 million bond issue. * Sheriff Guffy Pattison was honored at a fundraiser. * Flashy Frank Warfield of Many High won the High Jump event at the Tiger Track Meet. He cleared 6 feet. * Lanie Lites was crowned Miss Battle of Pleasant Hill. * Kowonno Greene, a senior at MHS, was named Regional Christian Athlete of the Year. * Senior English students at Many High welcomed Queen Victoria to a tea on April 16. The students dressed as authors. May 12, 1999 * Librarian Rebecca Morris was preparing for the summer reading program, "Let The Good Books Roll." * Chief Investigator Ted DeLacerda of the DA's Office was presented with a commendation plaque by the U.S. Dept. of Justice, United States Marshal's Service of the Western District of Louisiana. DeLacerda was instrumental in apprehending a fugitive. * A $600.000 state grant to help with the renovation of the municipal water system was granted to the Town of Many. * The Southern Plainsmen Quartet was planning their 21st Annual Homecoming Concert, June 4-5. * Negreet High hosted the La. State Championship Gold Tournament for Classes A, B, and C, May 3-5 at Emerald Hills. * A disaster drill, which illustrated the horrors of drinking and driving, was staged at Many High for hundreds of juniors and seniors from across the parish. * Bernita Kennedy was crowned Miss YWCC at the Greater Wayside Temple C. O. G. I. C. on April 24. * Mark Edmondson and Elizabeth Dowden were named Mr. and Miss Negreet High. * The Many High Band scored superior at the State LMEA Concert Bank Festival. Senior members were Andy Gilcreast, Stacie Kirkland and Marc Gewin. May 19, 1999 * The unveiling of "Quinton Brandon, The Marshal Who Tamed Zwolle" by Robert Gentry and Patricia Martinez was released. Catherine Vines Davis served as editor. * Many Police Chief Dean Lambert announced that his patrolman will discontinue directing traffic at the Middle Creek Road and Marthaville Highway entrances onto San Antonio Ave. * Pete Abington announced he will not seek a state Senate seat. * Buddy Veuleman announced his candidacy for a seat on the Valley Electric Membership Corporation Board of Directors. * The Florien Floriculture team Jim Corley, Nathan Corley, Robin White and Jatie Gabler won the state championship. * Another honor for Teacher of the Year Melanie LaFleur. She was named Wal-Mart Teacher of the Year on May 7. * The Village of Fisher celebrated its 101st birthday with a homecoming celebration on May 22. * Elder Michael Brandon Burch returned home May 20 after a two-year mission with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He hails from Zwolle. * All of the parish's graduating seniors were honored in a special supplement. * Pleasant Hill Pre-K students visited the Bayou Pierre Alligator Farm. * The parlor of First United Methodist Church was dedicated in memory of Mr. and Mrs. C. D. Hancock. * Junior Quiz Bowl competition was won by Florien. May 26, 1999 * Lawrence J. Ebarb, 83, of Zwolle was named Zwolle's Oldest Living Logger. * Robert Gentry has been named chairman of the Jimmie Davis Centennial Committee. Rep. Joe Salter is a committee member. Davis' 100th birthday party will be hosted Sept. 10 in Baton Rouge, * The family of Quinton Brandon gathered for the unveiling of the new book honoring him at a special ceremony May 22. * Twelve teachers and employees retired from the Sabine Parish School System. * Kelli Conn of Many was chosen as a member of the 1999-2000 Purple Pizazz Pom Pon Line at Northwestern State University. * FCE members enjoyed Area Day at Fort Jesup State Park. * Benny Epps, a Zwolle fourth-grader, won first place in the state for his non-fiction story, according to Young Author's Contest officials. * Peoples State Bank hosted a luncheon to honor the class valedictorians and salutatorians. Pete Abington, chairman of the board, and President J. J. Blake III were on hand to distribute awards. * Girl Scout Troop 61 in Many, led by Rosemary Palmer, conducted a food drive. * With the assistance of Golf Pro Wade Strahan, Emerald Hills and Boy Scout Troop 80 of Many hosted a youth gold tournament on May 16. * Teens Encouraging Christ from St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Zwolle have been busy traveling to various points of interest. June 2, 1999 * Barbara Tabor, former educator and past president of the Sabine Parish School Board, died on May 27. * Ground was broken for the construction of Crossroads Fire Department in northwest Sabine Parish. J. P. Bilyeau will be fire chief. * Mrs. W. G. Lilly of Florien, a loved and respected teacher in Sabine Parish, died on May 29. * A walking trail will be constructed at the Many City Park through a grant from the Governor's Office of Rural Development. * A bill to have limited routine power generation on Toledo Bend under dry conditions died in the state legislature. * A historical exhibit was unveiled at City Hall on June 14. A collection of old photos were featured. * A Community Policing Workshop was hosted by the DA's Office and Project Celebration and the Many City Police. * Clint Walker won the 25-meter race at the Red River Special Olympics on April 20. * Polly Dappen and April Seegers, both of Many, graduated with a perfect 4.0 grade point average from NSU in the spring commencement. * The Patrick Fisher Memorial Award at Many High was awarded to Many Band members Andy Gilcreast and Marc Gewin. * SPARK hosted an open house on May 25 for members of the School Board and community. Director James Wagley and students provided a tour. * The Tiger cheerleeaders launched their pink flamingo fundraiser. * Mimi Stoker, LSU Cooperative Extension home economist, along with FCE hosted a program on the Y2K bug at the Sabine Theater on May 26. * Sarah Russell, daughter of Stan and Mary Anne Russell of Zwolle, was named to the Times All-Academic Team. * Brenda Lyddy began a new feature "Jewel of the Month," which honors special people in the community. * Scott Debose was the guest speaker at Sabine Chapter, Louisiana Society, Daughters of the American Revolution. * Kaitlin Lambert, daughter of Nancy and Phillip Lambert of Many was honored as the MJHS Student of the Year. * Sabine Parish 4-H'ers were honored on Awards Night. June 9, 1999 * A flag tree to honor verterans was decorated by the Many Pilot Club. * Community Appreciation Day was hosted at Los Adaes. * Sabine Parish Penny King and Queen in the senior division were Renay Remedies and Jesse DeLatin. * Marie Webb of Zwolle won the Kawaski jet ski in a Big Star promotional. * The investigation into the robbery of Sabine State Bank's Toledo Branch continues. June 16, 1999 * The will of T. D. Nichols was declared invalid and two malpriactice suits were filed against the attorney. * A symposium "Reflections of Our Town" was hosted. * Negreet parents addressed the issue of a teacher transfer at the School Board meeting. * The Sheriff's Office established an Internet site. * Bailey Bluff Villas were officially opened in a June 24 ceremony. * The Loggers and Forestry Festival in Zwolle drew a large crowd on June 12. Candace Lee Sepulvado reigned as queen. * The Rev. Wayne Stotz was welcomed as the new pastor at Alford Heights Baptist Church. * The Tiger Club hosted a crawfish boil for their wives and Tiger football coaches and spouses on April 28. * Jewel Sailer Hilderbrand was named the first "Jewel of the Month." * Fay Painter was installed as commander of DAV Auxiliary Unit No 21. June 23, 1999 * A new feature on "Our Unsung Heroes," Sabine Parish's volunteer fireman, was slated for the INDEX. Donald Gervais, NSU summer intern, was the writer. * Ebarb Water District Board President Lee Swindoll resigned. * LEAP test scores for Sabine were announced. Sabine fell within the normal range. * The chapel at the Sabine Parish Detention Center was dedicated. * Harmon Drew Super Group, which features Mike Morris, cut a new CD, "Still Kickin". * An agreement between the SRA and South Toledo and Ebarb Water District is near. * Travis and Ruby Alford of Florien celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary. June 30, 1999 * At 12:01 a.m. July 1 video poker machines in 33 parishes fell silent. Locally, 52 machines at 10 establishments were closed by the Louisiana State Police. * Lee Raymond Isgitt announced his candidacy for sheriff. He has over 30 years in law enforcment and is a retired state trooper. * The Cypress Bend Convention Center showed progress. The completion date is set for Jan. 2000. * Alicia Boudreaux, daughter of Dr. Chuck and Linda Boudreaux, became an exchange student and traveled to Australia during July. * Three parish residents were recipients of the Diocesan Medal of Honor. Recognized were Floyd Lopez, Delores Weber and Roy Beasley. * Sheriff's candidate Ben Isgitt hosted a public forum on June 17. * Holloway Sportswear celebrated its 10th anniversary. * Converse's Sarah Touchton was named as a member of the 1999-2000 La. Youth Advisory Council. * IHS-North and South sponsored their first annual Care Fest. July 7, 1999 * Four-laning is closer to reality in Sabine -- the only parish in the state without a four-lane highway. Sections of U.S. 171 north and south of Many will be completed before the actual five-mile section in Many is completed in Feb. 2002. * Plant-eating weevils will wage a war on aquatic fern, which is rapidly multiplying in the middle of Toledo Bend. * Amy Giblin, daughter of Floyd and Susan Giblin, is starring in summer stock at Granbury, Texas. * Free women's acting and writing classes are being offered by Mary Bozeman. * Ron and Brenda Thomas of Converse opened Village Laundromat on June 26. * Mother and Me, a maternity shop owned by Marty and Michelle Colston and Jeff and Cherie Leach, opened. * Scott Gandy, son of Carolyn and Bruce Gandy, won an honorable mention slot on the state High School Athletic Association's Academic All-State Boys' Basketball team for Class 2A. * Eight high school students participated in the A-HEC program at Sabine Medical Center. * Les Crowson was installed a president of the Many Lions Club. July 14, 1999 * It was pea pickin' time at the Detention Center. A total of 30 acres were planted. * The Town of Many received a $558,508 Louisiana Community Development Block Grant. The money will be used to drill three deep water wells. * Jewel Corley of Florien was named elementary supervisor and Betsy Godfrey of Many was named supervisor of pre-school programs in the July 8 meet of the School Board. * Dr. Oscar Chan, general surgeon, is now seeing patients at 395 S. Capitol Street. * Triplets Matthew, Michael and Michaela Escott were featured in an article. Born on April 9, they are the children of Debra and Joseph G. Escott. * Boy Scout Troop 157 of Zwolle and Troop 80 of Many attended summer camp at Garland Scout Ranch, June 20-26. * The Rev. Charlie Crews and his family were welcomed as the new pastoral family at Many's First United Methodist Church. * Josh Quayhagen, a young black belt, has won a host of state, regional, national and world championships. * J. V. Lafitte of Converse and 0'Brian Garner of Negreet were selected as the recipients of the Carson Rivers Memorial Sportsmanship Award, according to Dixie Youth Baseball President Ricky McConnell. * Fallen Funderburk was the recipient of the Dr. V. M. John Memorial Scholarship. Fallen plans to enter NSU and major in nursing. * Dr. Jack Corley participated in the Rural Preceptorship Program during June. * Book signings of "Quinton Brandon: The Marshal Who Tamed Zwolle" were held by Robert Gentry and Patricia Martinez, authors, in Shreveport and Bossier's Books-A-Million. July 21, 1999 * CLECO employees will now be reading water meters in Many and Zwolle. * New CEO Pat Gandy of Sabine Medical Center predicts a bright future for the local facility. * Bass Haven Grill opened on July 13. It is located at Bass Haven Resort on La. 191. * A posthumous award honoring the tireless contribution as fire chief of North Sabine Fire Protection District was presented to Mrs. Jeff Himel for her husband who died unexpectedly. * Joe Debose, Sabine Farm Bureau president, was honored for outstanding service at the annual convention. Jake Morris was presented with a $1,500 scholarship, too. * The Main Street Workshop Band, composed of Blake Clinkscales, Nathan Wagley, Davy Ammons and Chris Wagley, entertained at Music on Main Street's final show. * Bessie Moward was named Jewel of the Month. * Attending Girls' State were Andrea Payne, Janice Potter, Stephanie Ebarb, Natalie Sepulvado and Allyson Ault. * Verda Mains was installed as president of the Many Pilot Club. * The Many Rotary Club established four pre-K libraries in Sabine Parish. They were dedicated as the Bob Tucker memorial libraries. * Cypress Bend sponsored "Hook-A-Kid on Golf" July 12-15. Pro Eric Kaspar coordinated the event. July 28, 1999 * The pigeons of 1998 have returned. Last year the Town of Many tried numerous measures to ride the town of birds before turning to poison. This year Freeman is posing the question: To poison or not to poison? * Marvin "Bear" Powell has announced his candidacy for sheriff. * Peoples State Bank was cited for friendliness and performance. * After being presented with a petition to call a special election in the Many Sales Tax District and authorizing the Many School District to incur debt and issue bonds, the School Board agreed to move ahead. Hopefully a new junior high will be built. * Zwolle poet Candis Rivers presented a copy of "Celebration of Poets" to the library. * The ZIS yearbook was dedicated to the DARE program. * State Attorney General Richard Ieyoub made a campaign swing through the area. * Kenneth J. Funderburk announced his candidacy for Wards 2 and 3 Police Juror. * ZES Principal Judy Rials is seeking parental involvement by scheduling parental orientation meetings. Aug. 4, 1999 * Suspected bank robbers Ricky L. Wedgeworth, 24, of Tenn. and William Michael Isgitt-Hinton, 20, of Robeline were arrested after a bumbled roberry. Isgitt left his wallet on the counter and the get-away car was easy to spot -- a yellow Ford Mustang. * Jack Adair challenged Rep. Joe Salter for the District 24 seat. * Weather volunteer Pat Boudreaux was honored by the National Weather Service for 10 years of service. * Mormons practiced preparedness in an overnight drill in Fisher. * Dustin Wright is attending Centenary College on a baseball scholarship. * Samaritan Home Health officially opened. They are selling medical equipment. Aug. 11, 1999 * Barbara Lopez, manager of Many Pawn Shop, announced her candidacy for tax assessor. * John Manasco, former Mayor of Florien, succumbed to cancer on Aug. 6. * The annual back-to-school section was printed. * Big Star celerbated 25 years in Many. * Construction delays have pushed the opening of the Cypress Bend Resort Conference Center back to December. * Florien has tied on to a new water system. It was paid for by a $750,000 state grant. Aug. 18, 1999 * Carl Chance of Plainview announced his candidacy for tax assessor. * Sheriff Guffey Lynn Pattison is seeking re-election. * In a teachers' meeting, Superintendent Dan Leslie announced a 5 percent pay hike for school employees. * Carroll Ellzey is seeking reelection as tax assessor. * Kasey Crittenden was named honorary chairman of the Relay for Life 1999. * Sewer rates were hiked in the Town of Many. A 10 percent increase will be passed on to customers in October. A similar hike is being studied by Zwolle. * The cast was chosen for "The Women." A total of 35 ladies are in a variety of roles. * Enchanted Years Early Learning Center, owned and operated by Lilda Langton and Kay Westfall, opened in Florien. * "A Night at the Oscars" was the theme of Sugar 'N Spice's recital. * Troop 80 Boy Scouts cleaned up the Stoker Hills Hiking Trail. * Zwolle officials are studying annexation requests. Aug. 25, 1999 * Clerk of Court Dollie Knippers qualified for another term. * Jack Adair withdrew his candidacy for state representative, citing lack of funds. * Gary Krize, who boasted 33 years as a real estate appraiser, offered himself as a candidate for tax assessor. * Editor Vickie Welborn rode the KCS train from Leesville to Mansfield for a feature on the Louisiana State Police's effort to crack down on motorists who try to beat the train. * Five marijuana plants were seized in Many by the Sabine Sheriff's Office. * The Lighthouse, a Christian book store owned by J. W. Johnston, opened on San Antonio Avenue. * The School Board received a $10,000 Bell South grant. * Congressman Jim McCrery presented a flag to Pleasant Hill High and visited the parish on Aug. 19. * The 1999 Relay for Life kicked off with a gathering at the theater. Honorary Chairman Kasey Crittenden arrived in a limo. * An emergency disaster drill was hosted by Sabine Medical Center. Emergency Preparedness Coordinator B. G. Hillman and MedExpress coordinated the mock tornado with A-HEC students serving as victims. * Troop 68, Boy Scouts of America traveled to Camp Arrowhead in Missouri. James Wagley is scoutmaster. * Sabine Soil and Water Conservation District won two national awards. * Zwolle High FHA'ers Marcy Sepulvado, Yasheeka Carter and Melanie Wood earned national gold medals at the national convention in Boston. * Sweet Dreams publishing Company announced their newest product: "The Sullivan Family." Sept. 1, 1999 * James David Cain announced his intention to seek re-election to his state Senate seat in Dist. 30. * Rep. Joe Salter, first elected in 1986, is seeking re-election, * The DA's Office subpoenaed the Zwolle Police Dept. for evidence in a six-year-old unsolved rape case. * Ebarb water customers experienced a rate hike, which will add $17,000 per month to keep the district afloat. * Ed and Pat Baldridge, former Many residents, were named Philanthropists of the Year by CARE. * Fort Jesup offered alternative classrooms for interactive learning to area teachers. Donna Spears is park manager. * There's no band director at Many High so English teacher Melanie LaFleur stepped in as interim director and along with an active group of parents, has kept the program alive. Sept. 8, 1999 * Candidates for state, parish and local offices qualified this week. * An animal shelter idea is being revewed by the town, according to Mayar Ken Freeman." * Alfice Brumley, former sheriff of Sabine (for 17 years), is seeking election to his former post. * The long-awaited book, "Many, Louisiana: Reflections of Our Town" was set to be unveiled. * The 15th Annual Tamale Fiesta poster artist, Frank Brown, was announced by Chairman Phyllis Murdock. * "The Women" was set to open. Mary Bozeman is directing the cast of 35 women. * The Rev. and Mrs. C. J. Walea celebrated 17 years in the pastorate at the United Pentecostal Church of Many. * Emory Selz, a deaf mortician at Warren Meadows Funeral Home, was featured in a story. He is one of five deaf morticians in the nation. * Bobby Hershberger is on the waiting list for a new heart. Sept. 15, 1999 * INDEX staffer Tina Williams gave birth to a baby boy -- 7 pounds, 7 ounces Dimitri Jamal. * A bike path is under construction at Toledo Bend Lake by the Sabine River Authority. * Rep. and Mrs. Joe Salter were sponsors of the Tamale Fiesta Poster. * Negreet students have resorted to water coolers because the Ebarb Water District is under a boil advisory. * Collected Treasures opened on Toledo Bend Lake. * The Many Tigers were winning. They rolled over North Desoto, 47-20. * The School Board is looking into drug testing for all athletes. Sept. 22, 1999 * A city property dispute arose between the town and Harvey Crittenden, who says he owns the triangle of land at the intersection of La. 6 and Elizabeth Street. * Melyssa Snelling of Converse, Johanna Faust of Many Junior High and Carolyn Martin of Many High were named Sabine Parish Teachers of the year. * Los Gallos announced a fundraiser for the Relay for Life. Steering commmittee members waited on tables and collected donations and tips. * Property assessment was up, according to the tax assessor. * Monty Reynolds is cooking up a storm at Cypress Bend Resort as the new executive chef. * Zwolle students were encouraged to "Think First." Leslie Rivers was a guest speaker. * The Town of Many has restricted truck traffic on several streets. * Fred Wagley celebrated his 90th birthday. * 1998 Tamale Queen Julie Stewart was anxious to crown her successor. * Boise Cascade was enthusiastically supporting the Relay for Life. Sept. 29, 1999 * Herbicides on Toledo Bend were sprayed by the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries to help control the spread of aquatic fern. * The contractor at Cypress Bend Resort Conference Center is behind schedule and the project will not be complete by Dec. 15. * Rep. Joe Salter won the No. 1 Fiesta poster with his top bid. * Salter was also named grand marshal of the Fiesta Parade. * Cade Brumley of Converse was awarded the Pauline Allen Walden scholarship. * Tiger football players continued the tradition of playing dominoes at the nursing home. * Youth Day was held at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Zwolle. Over 70 attended. Oct. 6, 1999 * The Police Jury offered to settle a three-year-old lawsuit filed by Dr. Garland Miller. * Zwolle approved a hike in monthly water, sewer and garbage rates, according to Mayor Roger Lopez. * A Coushatta man was found guilty of attempted armed robbery by a 12-person jury. William R. Hamburg, 34, was chased down by the sheriff after he attempted to rob the Pleasant Hill branch of Sabine State Bank. * School scores released showed five academically above and five academically below schools. * The Many Tigers won their fifth game of the season by beating Pickering 48-24. * The Sabine Reading Council awarded grants to Lee Sepulvado and Natalie Welch. * Heath Brandon and Landon Kade Martinez were named as Pages of the Fiesta. Oct. 13, 1999 * Lagniappe Trade Days on Toledo Bend was slated Oct. 22-24. This is the first step in the construction of a theme park planned by TPO, Inc., a group of local investors. * Leah Carnline was crowned MHS homecoming queen. She reigned over the 33-14 Tiger victory over DeQuincy. * Sabine Parish leaders were involved in strategic planning hosted by the Sabine Parish Office of LSU Agricultural Center. * The overlay of La. 482 on Ebarb has been popstponed. * CHS hosted a candidate's forum with 15 state and local candidates attending. * New playground equipment was dedicated at St. John's Catholic Church in Many. * Hodges Gardens announced their first Herb Fesitval. * A ceremony was held at the old Kisatchie School to honor five Dowden men, who defended the South during the Civil War. Oct. 29, 1999 * Police are investigating the alleged shooting of sheriff's candidate Ben Isgitt's truck. State Police are in charge of the investigation. * A misdemeanor conviction tied to a domestic dispute involving Dr. Garland Miller was reinstated by the Third Circuit Court of Appeals. * Sue Lyn Strange, known in judicial and law enforcement circles, died Oct. 11. * Death also claimed Many businessman, John R. Skinner, a 40-year employee of Nichols Dept. Store. * Many Mayor Ken Freeman and the Council suspended the plans of poisoning the pigeons after an appeal by Debra Niswanger, who represented a group of concerned citizens. * The INDEX won three advertising war ads in the Better Newspaper Advertising competition. * Dedication of the newly-constructed Crossroads Fire Station was hosted. John Bilyear is the station chief. * Renovations to the Pleasant Hill town hall will become a reality. A $10,000 grant from the State Rural Development Program was received, according to Mayor Truman Durr. * The Tigers posted a seventh victory by beating South Beauregard, 43-16. * The Jail 'N Bail fund-raiser for Relay for Life saw Sheriff Guffey Pattison and Tax Assessor candidate Barbara Lopez behind bars. * Robert Gentry's newest book, "Ole Roy, Mother and Me" was released. Oct. 27, 1999 * Sheriff Guffey Pattison and Tax Assessor Carroll Ellzey won re-election in the Oct. 22 primary. * The new Health Unit is set to open in January. * The Town of Zwolle received a grant from the state Endowment for the Humanities to write their own history book. Many's book has been held up in production. * George Elliott, a native son, retired as Commander of Troop E after a 31-year career. * Over 3,000 attended the first Lagniappe Days. * The Tigers keep on winning. They whipped Minden's Crimson Tide, 54-34. * A total of $24,000 was raised for the American Cancer Society in the all-night Relay for Life event at the stadium. Karen Sepulvado was chairman. Nov. 3, 1999 * Sabine Medical Center honored new physicians: Dr. Pushpa Pathak and wife, Dr. Wei Gong; Dr. Samih Jarjour and Dr. Oscar Chan at a reception hosted by Pat Gandy, the administration and staff. * A huge turkey, fashioned from a rolled bale of hay, appeared on La. 6 East thanks to C. D. Worsham. * Area residents marched as part of a candlelight vigil to remember victims of domestic violence. * Head Start in Many, under the direction of Betsy Godfrey, hosted an open house. * Sabine State Bank hosted their annual Customer Appreciation Day with a live remote, prizes and hot dogs for all. * Katie Sandel of Florien was named to the La. Tech Homecoming Court * The MHS Tigers confined their perfect season by defeating Vinton's Lions, 41-6. * Senior Many Band members Chad Linsley, Benford Slay, Samamtha Prewitt and Syble Jacobs were honored. * Red Ribbon Week was in full swing in all parish schools. Nov. 10, 1999 * Many business owner Debra Bison, 39, of Negreet was tragically killed in an automobile accient near San Augustine, Texas on Nov. 6. * Sabine Medical Center received accreditation with commendation from the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations. * The Tigers ended their season with a perfect 10-0 record. They will advance to the play-offs. * Two propositions will be presented to voters in the Many School District for the construction of a new junior high and the reparing of Many Elementary and Many High. The $9.5 million project will be funded through a 20-year ad valorem tax and a 20-year 1/2 cent sales tax. * Detective Ben DuBose of the Sheriff's Office retired after a 20 year law enforcement career. * VFW Post 4858 remembered the veterans on Veteran's Day. * The Town of Many will start a litter campaign. * Basketball is underway. The Florien Blackcats and Lady Blackcats won the Pleasant Hill Torunament. * Ashlee Smith was crowned Miss Florien Freestate. Nov. 17, 1999 * Christmas on Toledo Bend, which featured open house at businesses, was hosted. * Annette Farris was feted with a retirement party on Nov. 12. She has been Don Burkett's legal secretary for 22 years. * Veterans were honored in Patriotic programs across the parish. * Ebarb FFA'ers Cassie Bison, Wade Britt and Samantha Bell attended the national convention in Louisville, Kentucky. * At the same convention, Florien's Floriculture team won third place in the nation. John Sandel is their advisor. * Julian Foy was elected president of the Louisiana Automobile Dealers Association. * Universal Cable Holdings Inc. purchased Star Cable of Many. * The Town of Many is studying animal control. Nov. 24, 1999 * Voters said yes to two tax propositions that will fund construction of a new junior high and major improvements at the elementary and high schools. * Disney's Tarzan was shown at Moonlight Madness on Dec. 3. * Rod Hopkins bested longtime Police Jury incumbent Mary Both Tarver in the election, 447 to 410 votes. Hopkins will now continue a record of service established by his father, the late Howard Hopkins, who was a juror for a number of years. * Kusum John was named grand marshal of Many's Christmas Parade. * A Community Policing seminar on diverse populations was hosted. * Randow's opened a gift shop on Nov. 19 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony by the Chamber of Commerce. * The Many Tigers beat Ferriday 45-25 and earned the right to continue in play-offs. Dec. 1, 1999 * Williams Bros. hosted a grand opening after renovations. Roderick and Malcom Williams are the owners. * The Converse School District is eyeing improvements. * The Sheriff's Department warned the citizens of a telephone scam. * "A Christmas Carol" is slated at the Sabine Theater with Jim Quayhagen recreating his role as Scrooge. The John family sponsored the event. * Cypress Bend Park is sponsoring Christmas on Toledo. Crafts, a boat and barge flotilla and fireworks were planned. * Fisher's lights were turned on for Christmas. New additions were painted windows and wooden cutouts, according to Mayor Susan Slay. * "The Thrill of Hope," by the community choir was presented four times in the area. Carole Troha directed. * Mary Both Tarver was elected president of the East/West Corridor Commission. Bobby Williams was elected secretary-treasurer. * The Tigers were knocked out of the play-offs by West St. John, 46-35. * Eddetra Holden of Many High, signed a letter of intent with the University of Louisiana at Monroe. She is a senior Lady Tiger basketball player. * The Florien Blackcats and Lady Blackcats won their own tournament. * The Pilot Clubs Memorial Tree was lit. * Andrea Payne was named DAR Good Citizens at Many High. * Casey Ryals was homecoming queen at Florien. * Jennifer Adams was class president of her Negreet Senior Class. Dec. 8, 1999 * Faye Kennedy flipped the switch to illuminate Many, which she and city crews decorated with thousands of lights. * The Sabine Parish School Sytem received a $144,924 grant from Bell South Foundation for "Power to Teach." * A chemical spill occured at the Sabine Parish/Natchitoches Parish line. Hazardous waste was spilled and the highway was closed for clean-up. * Robert Gentry received the Holm Award for 33 years of dedicated service by the National Weather Service. Dec. 15, 1999 * Dr. Harold Lewing of Monroe hosted an autograph party at Peoples State Bank on Dec. 9. The title was "When God Changes His Mind." * Sabine Parish students raised $4,000 for Shriners by selling links to spirit chains. * Sixteen Tigers were named to All District 4-2A team. Most Valuable Players were Frank Warfield on defense and Isom Scott on offense. David Feaster was named Coach of the Year. * Walter Mains was named Sabine Farmer of the Year by the Soil and Water Conservation District. * Brandi Thibodeaux was named NHS homecoming queen. * Jarrad Rivers and Melanie Woods were named Mr. and Miss Zwolle High. Dec. 22, 1999 * Hundreds of Sabine Parish children asked Santa for Pokeman, Play Stations, Barbies, and horses were on the top of lists. * A solution for the troubled Ebarb water system may be on the way. * The first phase of the water line construction to lay the line from South Toledo Bend Water District to Ebarb's transmission line in Negreet should begin immediatley. * The Sabine Parish Police Jury approved a $4.8 million budget for the year 2000. * The Many City Council is studying the franchise agreement with the cable company. * The Many Christmas Parade rolled through town. And "A Christmas Carol" featuring young Andrew Collins as Tiny Tim was presented again onstage at the Sabine Theater. * A Zwolle firefighter was killed on the way to a grass fire, when the tanker he was driving flipped. Services for Paul Ezernack were held on Dec. 18. * Aarin Campbell was crowned Miss Merry Christmas at Many High. Dec. 29, 1999 * Many's first murder of the year mars the end of 1999. Roderick "Bill" Lewis, 23, died Dec. 23 after being shot at least twice by unknown assailants. Police continue to investigate. No arrest has been made. * Former sheriff's candidate Ben Isgitt was arrested on three charges, stemming from an alleged/staged shooting incident prior to the election. Clyde Gallons, who served as Isgitt's campaign manager, was arrested Dec. 26 on charges related to the same incident. * Sen. James David Cain submitted a plan to fund teacher salaries.