Sabine Parish Basketball Scores

Zwolle High School Tournament
December 9, 10, 11

GIRLS

Zwolle 53 (12-4)
Ebarb 47 (6-10)

Ebarb 52 (7-10)
St Mary’s 30 (1-3)

Florien 61 (18-1)
Pleasant Hill 39 (5-9)

Florien 55 (19-1)
Zwolle 48 (12-5)

Negreet 46 (10-9)
St. Mary’s 23 (1-2)

Zwolle 81 (11-4)
C E Byrd 59 (8-2)

C E Byrd 51 (9-2)
Pleasant Hill 46 (5-10)

Harrisonburg High School Tournament
December 9, 10, 11

LaSalle 38 (6-3)
Converse 34 (3-10)

BOYS

Zwolle High School Tournament
December 9, 10, 11

Florien 61 (9-8)
Ebarb 49 (4-9)

Zwolle 75 (9-4)
Ebarb (48 (4-10)

Negreet 59 (6-11)
Ebarb 45 (4-11)

Zwolle 71 (10-4)
Florien 56 (9-9)

Zwolle 61 (11-4)
Negreet 44 (6-12)

Harrisonburg High School Tournament
December 9, 10, 11

Converse 69 (5-6)
Forest 60 (4-8)

Monterey 60 (11-3)
Converse 55 (5-7)

Parkway High School Tournament
December 9, 10, 11

Pleasant Hill 51 (10-4)
Northwood-Shreve 48 (2-4)

Pleasant Hill 47 (11-4)
Parkway 45 (5-2)

Pleasant Hill 50 (12-4)
Haughton 41 (10-2)

June 26, 1957 – December 14, 2021

Robert M. “Robbie” Baker, 64 of Natchitoches, passed away December 14, 2021 at his residence after a long illness. He was born in Winnfield on June 26, 1957.

He was a member of the Coast Guard Auxiliary as Flotilla Commander and served as admissions coordinator for the U.S. Coast Guard Academy for Louisiana and Mississippi. Mr. Baker was a 32 Degree Free and Accepted Mason and was a member of several lodges including Calvin Lodge No. 431 F&AM of Calvin, Louisiana, Phoenix Lodge No. 38 F&AM of Natchitoches, and Galilee Lodge No. 31, of Nazareth. (Israel).

He was also a member of numerous masonic appendant bodies which include the York Rite Bodies of Winnfield, Louisiana (Bethlehem Commandery Knights Templar No. 20, Royal and Select Masters Council No. 43, and Royal Arch Mason Chapter No. 59), Scottish Rite Bodies of Monroe, Louisiana, Past Patron of Palestine Chapter No. 55, Order of the Eastern Star, Winnfield, La., Natchitoches Chapter No. 13 O.E.S., and Goldonna Chapter No. 244.

Mr. Baker was a member of West Side Baptist Church in Natchitoches, Retired Captain with the Louisiana State Fire Marshal’s Office. He was a graduate of Northwestern State University and also completed studies in the National Fire Academy as well as the U.S. Coast Guard Academy. He was a former police officer and firefighter for the CIty of Winnfield.

Mr. Baker is the son of the late Robert E. Baker and the late Gay R. Worhsam Baker. He was also preceded in death by his former wife Tammy Busby Baker.

Those left to cherish his memory are his wife of 12 years Donna Nelken-Baker, his children Robert Chris Baker, Jason Baker, step-children Casey Franklin (Rachel) and Sean Franklin (Andrea), six grandchildren Barrett Baker, Kennedy Baker, Jaden Green, Koby Green, Sean Aguilar, Conner Franklin and Fitz Levine-Franklin, and sister Judy Jordan (Ronnie). He is also survived by his sidekick “Chevy,” his beloved cat.

Memorial services will be held on Thursday, December 16, 2021 at Westside Baptist Church in Natchitoches with Reverends Steve McCalister and Russell Jones officiating. Interment will follow at 3:30 p.m. at the Garden of Memories Cemetery in Winnfield with Masonic Rites.

Friends may visit with the family Wednesday at Southern Funeral Home in Winnfield from 5-7 p.m.

Memorial donations may be made to the Grand Chapter of Louisiana O.E.S. Disaster Relief Fund P.O. Box 99, Mt. Herman, LA 70450 or the charity of the donor’s choice.

An ordinance was introduced at the City Council meeting on Dec. 13 to rezone property at the corner of East Fifth and Keyser Avenue (vacant lot across East Fifth from City Bank) from B-1 Commercial to B-2 Special Exception to operate from 5 am – 12 am for retail development for a full sized Chick-fil-a restaurant. The goal would be to open in a year, so fourth quarter of 2022.

This ordinance will come back before the Council at its next meeting on Jan. 10.

Table scraps …

November 30 marked the 50-year anniversary of one of the most tear-filled nights in American history — at least for those who owned a television set.

That night in 1971 was the premier of Brian’s Song, a 90-minute TV movie about the real-life relationship between Gayle Sayers, a Chicago Bears football halfback draftee from Kansas and future NFL Hall of Famer, who was black, and fullback Brian Piccolo, a free agent who made Chicago’s team as a fullback free agent, who was white. The story is taken from Sayers’ 1970 book, I Am Third, one of my boyhood favorites.

The shy Sayers and the bubbling-over Piccolo ended up being roommates on the road in 1967, the first time Chicago players of different races had ever roomed together. The bromance grew in the four years they were teammates. Opposites attracted. The two young men and their wives became besties.

But then what happened would make a glass eye cry.

Piccolo took himself out of a game in Atlanta in 1969 and later learned he had cancer. It would kill him in 1970. The relationship between the two young men and their wives is the heart of the movie. A month before Piccolo died, Sayers received the George S. Halas Courage Award and gave the speech, recreated in the film, that made an 11-year-old boy in South Carolina (me and most others of all ages watching) cry:

“He has the mental attitude that makes me proud to have a friend who spells out the word ‘courage’ 24 hours a day, every day of his life. You flatter me by giving me this award, but I tell you that I accept it for Brian Piccolo. It is mine tonight; it is Brian Piccolo’s tomorrow. I love Brian Piccolo, and I’d like all of you to love him too.”

The casting was perfect timing for viewers. Billie Dee Williams as Sayers had not yet become a star. And James Caan as Piccolo was a year removed from his breakout role in The Godfather. So, they both were believable as football players.

As a football player, Sayers was almost unbelievable. There have been few more fun to watch than Sayers, who was poetry in motion. To see someone else run like a deer, watch him or Ruston’s Dub Jones, the 1950s Cleveland Browns star and Louisiana Sports Hall of Famer from Ruston. Those guys are two of only four players to ever score six touchdowns in an NFL game. Mercy.

If you can find Brian’s Song, watch it over the holidays. And count your blessings …

It’s the 75^th anniversary of It’s a Wonderful Life, a semi-flop in post-war 1946 but a classic now. If you’ve never seen it, this Christmas is the perfect time to change that. You might just help an angel get his (or her) wings …

He coached in five different decades — multiple sports at multiple schools, including Woodlawn, Southwood, and Captain Shreve. Retired since 2009, Ken Ivy got a lot of what happened in that half century down on paper, and now those memories can be yours in an $11.99 paperback available online. That’s All Life Is, Is Stories, by Coach Ken Ivy (With Help From Some Old Friends) is 274 pages from Ivy, 83, and many of the players he coached during his winning, colorful career. It was published this month so it’s hot off the press, as they say …

Thank goodness that ball with full parks (mostly) came back last spring and that stadiums and gymnasiums with fans came back this fall. But more than that, community theater returned. Didn’t get to see many productions but was grateful for All Together Now from Ruston Community Theatre and Clue at East Bank in Bossier City. Also, at Shreveport Little Theatre, Boeing, Boeing in September and, last weekend, White Christmas, a huge production, what they in the biz call a ‘big show,’ lots and lots of scene changes and costumes and a huge cast. Thank you for all these shows to everyone because making it look easy ain’t easy. Best wishes in your artistic pursuits in 2022. Looking forward to it. Break a leg!, (but not literally) …

Oh, about White Christmas, and since it’s the season, here are some lyrics I wrote 25ish years ago, updated. Maybe it’s the Baptist version of the classic:

I’m dreaming of a white cornbread,

Just like the ones I used to know.

One that melts the butter,

Makes taste buds flutter,

And makes you weep from head to toe.

I’m dreaming of a white cornbread,

In every skillet that’s in sight,

May the sides be crispy, to bite,

And may all your cornbreads be just right…

Gratefully, the Dad Jokes Calendar that was a 2020 Christmas present (that’s so 2020, right?) is almost no more. This is great news to those around me who’ve had to suffer these almost daily jabs for nearly 12 months; I’ve managed to get on my own nerves. Our final Dad Joke has a Christmas theme: What do elves post on Social Media? They post Elf-ies! (See? Instead of Selfies they pos … Well, never mind. But it’s almost like a joke. Almost.) …

Sincere Merry Christmas wishes to you. Hope this is your best one yet. If it’s Dad Joke-free, it’s got a chance.

Contact Teddy at teddy@latech.edu

LEH announces full list of 2022 Humanities Awards recipients

December 13, 2021 / New Orleans, Louisiana —Author, activist and civil rights icon Ruby Bridges has been named the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities’ 2022 Humanist of the Year. In addition to the Humanist of the Year award, the LEH has announced 10 Humanities Awards recipients, recognizing documentary filmmakers and photographers, folklorists, literacy and language advocates, historians and more.

Now in their 37th year, the LEH Humanities Awards offer a collective opportunity to celebrate all the humanities have to offer and honor those who have made significant contributions to the understanding of Louisiana’s history and culture. “Humanist of the Year Ruby Bridges and the entire slate of 2022 awardees remind us why the humanities are an essential ingredient in our daily lives. Their work speaks volumes about our past, our present and can indeed point the way to our future. Our job at the LEH is to lift up and celebrate their work and contributions,” said LEH President and Executive Director Miranda Restovic.

The awardees will be highlighted in the spring issue of 64 Parishes magazine, published by the LEH, and they will be recognized during the organization’s annual Bright Lights Awards ceremony in 2022. Full ticket and program details will be available online at www.leh.org/our-work/humanities-awards once available.

Humanist of the Year: Ruby Bridges

The LEH’s Humanist of the Year award recognizes someone who has made invaluable and lasting contributions to Louisiana’s cultural landscape. The 2022 Humanist of the Year is Ruby Bridges, one of four students who desegregated New Orleans public schools in November 1960. Bridges has educated people around the world about the American civil rights movement by speaking at schools, conferences and public gatherings. She established the Ruby Bridges Foundation in 1999 to promote “the values of tolerance, respect and appreciation of all differences.”

Bridges is the author of three nonfiction books for children, including “Through My Eyes” (Scholastic Press, 1999), which won the Carter G. Woodson Book Award from the National Council for the Social Studies in 2000; “Ruby Bridges Goes to School” (Scholastic Press, 2009) and “This Is Your Time” (Delacorte Press, 2020), a New York Times Bestseller.

In 2001, President Bill Clinton awarded Bridges the Presidential Citizens Medal, which recognizes “U.S. citizens who have performed exemplary deeds of service for our nation.”

Chair’s Award for Institutional Support: Union Pacific Foundation

Recipients of the Chair’s Award for Institutional Support have contributed significant financial or programmatic support to the LEH’s mission and programs. The Union Pacific Foundation (UPF) is a valued LEH donor with contributions of $128,500 in the last five years. Projects supported through UPF grants include Prime Time Family Reading; publication of the tricentennial anthology “New Orleans and the World;” the LEH’s Keep It 300! Grants for tricentennial-related programming and the Louisiana Culture Care Fund for Rebirth PL grants.

Champion of Culture: John Barbry

Individuals or organizations that receive the Champion of Culture award have made a lasting mark through their support and promotion of Louisiana’s cultural resources. John Barbry, a member of the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana, has dedicated his life to the promotion and preservation of Native folkways. Among his many contributions, Barbry helped catalogue the “Tunica Treasure,” one of the most important archaeological discoveries of the 20th century and a key factor in the passage of the federal Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act in 1990.

Barbry is the director of development and programming for the Tunica-Biloxi tribe’s Language and Culture Revitalization Program, a position he has held since 2014. He has also championed inter-tribal cultural activities by serving as chairman of the Tunica-Biloxi Pow Wow since 1995.

Documentary Photographer of the Year:  L. Kasimu Harris

The Documentary Photographer of the Year award honors photographers whose work captures Louisiana’s history, culture or people. L. Kasimu Harris got his start as a documentary photographer in 2005. Since then, he has been included in seven solo exhibitions, 33 group exhibitions and numerous online and print publications. His photo series have covered topics like the 10 years following Hurricane Katrina, Black-owned bars, the failures of the public school system and the human cost of the COVID-19 pandemic in New Orleans.

Humanities Book of the Year: “Economy Hall: The Hidden History of a Free Black Brotherhood” by Fatima Shaik

The Humanities Book of the Year award honors a book published between Oct. 1, 2020, and Sept. 30, 2021, that best exemplifies scholarship on Louisiana topics or by Louisiana writers. Published by The Historic New Orleans Collection, Fatima Shaik’s “Economy Hall: The Hidden History of a Free Black Brotherhood” documents the history of the Société d’Economie et d’Assistance Mutuelle. This multi-ethnic community, which consisted of educators, artists, merchants, soldiers and tradesmen, stuck together from its founding in 1836 through the Jim Crow era to fight for suffrage and education for all.

Humanities Documentary Film of the Year: “The Neutral Ground” directed by C. J. Hunt and produced by Darcy McKinnon

The Humanities Documentary Film of the Year award honors a documentary film from the previous calendar year that best exemplifies scholarship on Louisiana topics or by Louisiana documentary filmmakers. Directed by C. J. Hunt and produced by Darcy McKinnon, “The Neutral Ground” documents New Orleans’s fight over monuments honoring the Confederacy and white supremacy. The film also tries to understand why America continues to be preoccupied with an army that lost a war over 150 years ago.

Lifetime Contributions to the Humanities: Joyce Jackson and Kalamu ya Salaam

The Lifetime Contributions to the Humanities awards recognize those who have supported and been involved in public appreciation of issues central to the humanities.

Dr. Joyce Marie Jackson is the chair and James J. Parsons Endowed Professor of the department of geography and anthropology at Louisiana State University. From 2010 to 2016, she served as the university’s director of African and African American studies. Over the course of her career as a folklorist and ethnomusicologist, she has contributed numerous articles, essays, chapters and other forms of media that further the understanding of African American culture and music, sacred and secular rituals in Africa and the diaspora and more. She is the author of “Life in the Village: A Cultural Memory of the Fazendeville Community” (US Department of the Interior, 2003).

Kalamu ya Salaam is a poet, author, teacher and activist from New Orleans. He was a founding member of BLKARTSOUTH, a community writing and acting workshop that helped Black poets and playwrights develop and showcase their work. He has produced numerous publications, including books of poetry, essays and articles. He also introduced and edited “New Orleans Griot: The Tom Dent Reader” (UNO Press, 2018) and “I Am New Orleans: Thirty-Six Poets Revisit Marcus Christian’s Definitive Poem” (UNO Press, 2020).

Museum Exhibition of the Year: Museum of the Southern Jewish Experience’s Permanent Exhibition

Awarded biannually in even-numbered years, the Museum Exhibition of the Year award goes to the Museum of the Southern Jewish Experience (MSJE) for its permanent exhibition, which explores Jewish life in the South from the colonial era through the present day. The MSJE opened at its current location on Howard Avenue in New Orleans on May 27, 2021. The permanent exhibition covers topics like waves of Jewish immigration, Jewish experiences during the Civil War and the reactions of Southern Jews during the Holocaust.

Light Up for Literacy: Jeannine Pasini Beekman and Tracy Cunningham

Presented in partnership with the State Library of Louisiana’s Center for the Book, the Light Up for Literacy award recognizes those who have made significant and lasting contributions to literacy efforts in the state.

Jeannine Pasini Beekman is a world-renowned storyteller who encourages audience members to engage with topics through her oral performance of folklore and literature. Her 45 years of professional storytelling experience includes work as a Prime Time Family Reading storyteller, facilitator and consultant, as well as an LEH RELIC Scholar.

Tracy Cunningham is recognized for her efforts to develop writers across Louisiana and the country. In addition to her current position as managing director of the Tennessee Williams & New Orleans Literary Festival and co-director of the New Orleans Writing Marathon, she served Walker High School in Livingston Parish as an English and creative writing teacher for 22 years.

Awards Selection and Presentation

Annually the LEH seeks public nominations for seven Humanities Awards—Humanities Book of the Year, Humanities Documentary Film of the Year, Museum Exhibition of the Year (biannual award), Best in Digital Humanities (biannual award), Light Up for Literacy, Documentary Photographer of the Year and Lifetime Contributions to the Humanities.

Each awardee is selected by committees of experts in their fields and LEH staff and board members. The Humanist of the Year, Champion of Culture and Chair’s Award for Institutional Support are nominated and chosen in-house by members of the LEH board of directors.

Information on programs and events honoring the 2022 Humanities Awards recipients will be announced at a later date. For more information about the awards, visit www.leh.org/our-work/humanities-awards.

In 1939, author Philip Van Doren Stern awoke from a dream and immediately began jotting down notes.  He wanted to write down what he could while it was still fresh in his mind.  At first, the dream reminded him of A Christmas Carol, the Charles Dickens novella from 1843.  The more he wrote, however, the less it resembled the Dickens tale.

6.  Ashcraft, Jenny. “Classic Holiday Film Celebrates Its 75th Anniversary.” FishWrap. December 2, 2021. https://blog.newspapers.com/classic-holiday-film-celebrates-its-75th-anniversary/?utm_source=Headline&utm_medium=Email&utm_campaign=Headline-Dec-21.

SABINE:
Linda Gore Sterling
February 28, 1946 – December 12, 2021
Service: Thursday, December 16 at 2 pm at Pleasant Hill Baptist Church

NATCHITOCHES:
Richard (Rick) Charles Nunnery
June 18, 1962 – December 10, 2021
Service: Friday, December 17 at 10 am at The Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Natchitoches

Leonard Earl Thomasee
October 10, 1941 – December 11, 2021
The family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Johnny Antoon Scholarship Fund at Northwestern State University.

WINN:
Robert M. “Robbie” Baker
June 26, 1957 – December 14, 2021
Service: Thursday, December 16 at 1:30 pm at Westside Baptist Church in Natchitoches

A great football game is played by the team, but a great football game experience to remember is created by the bands, spirit groups, and fans that make the stadium loud and proud on a Friday night. The Many High School Band puts in the work daily to make every game, home and away, a truly amazing experience for the fans while hyping up the team to help them achieve their win. 

This season was one for the books for Many High School as they plowed through win after win to get to the dome. Each game was accompanied by the heart and soul of the Many High School Tigers, the boys and girls of the Many Tiger Band. 

The Sabine Parish Journal is honored to have the chance to shine a spotlight on another aspect of the Friday Night Lights we all know and love. We had the chance to interview each and every member of the band to show the soul behind the season. 

Every interview has been sponsored by the parents, families, friends, and fans of the Many Tiger Band along with the generous local businesses in Sabine Parish! 

We are proud to introduce you to the 2021 Tiger Band! 

Jayme French – 2nd Year Drum Major – Clarinet

                      “My time in band has definitely helped me develop my leadership skills because working with the underclassmen you have to step-up and be a leader”

-J. French

Jayme is a senior serving her second year as the Drum Major for the Many Tiger Band. She dedicates time and effort to make sure the band performs at its best every time. She loves the unity created by one band of so many different people with unique skills. Jayme has been in band for seven years. 

1. What do you love about band? 

“I love the unity and love that is given and received” 

2. What does being in the band mean to you?

“Being in the band means everything to me, I don’t know where I’d be without band”

3. Do you think your time in the band has helped you develop teamwork skills? How?

“My time in band has definitely helped me develop my leadership skills because working with the underclassmen you have to step-up and be a leader”

4. What is your favorite band memory?

“My favorite band memory is any time our scores have reflected our hard work. There was also this one time when we were on a trip to Dallas, TX and a friend in the band accidentally broke a toilet seat and had to call the hotel housekeeping. It was hilarious and I’ll never forget it!”

5. What do you love about the other members of the band as a whole? What do you love about the band director?

“I love the way everyone comes together despite our differences and work together for the band. I love how Mr. Debose help’s us grow into not only better musicians, but better people as well”

6. What is the biggest thing being in band has taught you?

“The biggest thing the band has taught me is how to be 15 minutes early to EVERYTHING!”

7. What is your advice to any younger kids who are scared to try being in the band?

“My advice to anyone scared or nervous to do anything is to go for it. You get nothing out of sitting around being scared.”

8. What is your favorite quote about music or inspirational quote?

“Music is life itself” -Louis Armstrong

Emma Campbell – Clarinet/ Color Guard

“The band is like a family to me and we can all have fun together.”

-E. Campbell

Emma is a senior on the Tiger Band and loves the time she gets to spend with her friends while creating music. Her favorite memories have been created during away games with her friends. She loves the teamwork and discipline the band has taught her and believes that everyone who wants to try the band should do so despite the fears that may be holding them back. This is Emma’s sixth year on The Many Tiger Band. 

1. What do you love about band? 

“I love performing with my friends”

2. What does being in the band mean to you?

“It’s a special time where we can all come together and make music”

3. Do you think your time in the band has helped you develop teamwork skills? How?

“Yes, by helping me work with others without feeling judged”

4. What is your favorite band memory?

“Every away game with my best friends”

5. What do you love about the other members of the band as a whole? What do you love about the band director?

“They are like a family to me and we can all have fun together. Our director is a great teacher and I appreciate his dedication”

6. What is the biggest thing being in band has taught you?

“Teamwork and discipline”

7. What is your advice to any younger kids who are scared to try being in the band?

“Don’t be scared, it’s really fun and it’s worth it.”

8. What is your favorite quote about music or inspirational quote?

“Music is the universal language of mankind”

Shawn Williams – Trombone

“Teamwork makes the band and without it, the band would fall apart”

-S. Williams

Shawn is a senior on the Many Tiger Band and loves the trombone. He enjoys the time with his best friends that comes from the band. He believes in the teamwork that creates the sound of a great band, and knows that it takes patience to reach that level of greatness. This is Shawn’s sixth year in the Tiger Band. 

1. What do you love about band? 

“Spending time with my friends”

2. What does being in the band mean to you?

“Everyone knows everyone in the band”

3. Do you think your time in the band has helped you develop teamwork skills? How?

“Yes, because without teamwork the band would fall apart”

4. What is your favorite band memory?

“Spending everyday with my best friend”

5. What do you love about the other members of the band as a whole? What do you love about the band director?

“They are kind and the band director is thorough in teaching us”

6. What is the biggest thing being in band has taught you?

“Patience”

7. What is your advice to any younger kids who are scared to try being in the band?

“Do it! You won’t regret it”

8. What is your favorite quote about music or inspirational quote?

“The best way to predict your future is to create it”

Juan Plasencia- Clarinet

“Being in band means being the soul of what you represent”

– J. Plasencia

Juan is a sophomore in the Many Tiger Band and plays the clarinet. He knows that to be in the band means to create the soul of Many High School. He loves that no matter the differences in the background of the band members, they all comes together to create one amazing sound. Juan is currently in his third year of band at Many High School.

1. What do you love about band? 

“I love that everyone has a different background but everyone comes together for music”

2. What does being in the band mean to you?

“Being in band means being the soul of what you represent”

3. Do you think your time in the band has helped you develop teamwork skills? How?

“Yes it has. Both working with my seniors and my lower seat people shows me no matter what age you are, we all have talent for music”

4. What is your favorite band memory?

“It would be going to NSU my 8th grade year and playing fiddler on the roof”

5. What do you love about the other members of the band as a whole? What do you love about the band director?

“I love that even though we sometimes disagree, we come together for the sake of making music. I love that our director can be serious at times but still has a sense of humor”

6. What is the biggest thing being in band has taught you?

“The biggest thing band has taught me is to give everyone a chance”

7. What is your advice to any younger kids who are scared to try being in the band?

“Just try band if you love music no matter what genre you listen to”

8. What is your favorite quote about music or inspirational quote?

“The show must go on” quoted from Freddie Mercury

Jackson Coplin – Trumpet

                           “I was scared to try band at first. This was a new experience, but I met it head           on  and I am glad to be rewarded with friends and loads of fun”

-J. Coplin

Jacks is a seventh grader currently in his first year on the Tiger Band. He loves that he gets to play music while developing skills he will need in life such as listening to others and learning from those who have played before him. He enjoys the competitive side of the band and has learned through his time in band that to be the best you have to come prepared. 

1. What do you love about band? 

“Band is fun because I can be with friends and play music for lots of people; two of my favorite things to do”

2. What does being in the band mean to you?

“Being in the band means lots of late night trips on the bus with friends for away games”

3. Do you think your time in the band has helped you develop teamwork skills? How?

“My time in band has helped me listen to others’ constructive criticism without taking offense”

4. What is your favorite band memory?

“My favorite band memory is when we won against the colts again this year by two points”

5. What do you love about the other members of the band as a whole? What do you love about the band director?

“The other members of the band are all older and more experienced than me. This is great because I have been the oldest my whole life”

6. What is the biggest thing being in band has taught you?

“Be prepared – if you forget your music you can’t do band that day. I learned this through trial and error. I also learned that kind supportive people are the best people to have around”

7. What is your advice to any younger kids who are scared to try being in the band?

“I was scared at first too. This was a new experience, but I met it head on and I am glad to be rewarded with friends and loads of fun”

8. What is your favorite quote about music or inspirational quote?

“If you fell down yesterday, stand up today” – H.G. Wells

Our Many High School Tigers made it to the dome! Though they aren’t coming home with a win, they played their hearts out in an incredible game to match an incredible season. The Sabine Parish Journal is honored to continue to put the spotlight on the players that made the season possible. Help us congratulate Sabine Parish’s own Boys of Fall as we introduce you to the next round of Tiger Players! 

Without further ado, The Sabine Parish Journal brings you the Tiger Football Player Spotlight: Round 3!

James Hickman #50: Sponsored by Bass Heating and Cooling

“I get excited to come down the hill with my Brothers on Friday Nights.”

-J. Hickman

James enjoys the game of football and the bond it creates between the players on the team, much like brothers. A true team player, James loves to work together to get to the goal and “gives it 100 every time”. 

1. What aspects of Football do you get most excited about?

“Come down the hill with my Brothers on Friday Nights.”

2. What, in your opinion, makes an excellent football player?

“When you play together like Brothers.”

3. What is your favorite part of the game?

“Being able to help make touchdowns.”

4. Who was or is your most favorite Many High Player

“My Brother Leonard Hickmans”

5. How does being an athlete inspire you to do good?

“Cause’ I give it 100 every time.”

6. How does being an athlete make you a better student?

“Makes me enjoy going to school.”

David LaGrange #45: Sponsored by Daniel and Katie Jones and Bubba and Amanda Jones of Sabine Speedway

“Being an athlete makes me realize that in everything you do, you have to work hard for it, it will never come easy.”

– D. LaGrange

David loves that he can come to the field as a versatile player and add to the Many High School Football Team. He is driven and strives to be an excellent player. David loves that being an athlete can help him see where he needs to work harder, both on the field and in the classroom. 

1. What aspects of Football do you get most excited about?

“The energy and atmosphere of going out onto the field on Friday Nights.”

2. What, in your opinion, makes an excellent football player?

“Being able to be a versatile player, instinct, being able to play and be good at one position. Someone who is able to do multiple things is an excellent player.”

3. What player do you or did you look up too?

“I look up to Lavonte David.”

4. What is your favorite part of the game?

“The feeling that comes when you’ve worked and reached your goal and it finally pays off.”

5. Who was or is your most favorite Many High Player

“Tacket, he has a great work ethic and he is always humble.”

6. How does being an athlete inspire you to do good?

“It makes you realize that in everything you do you have to work hard for it, it will never come easy.”

7. How does being an athlete make you a better student?

“It helps me to understand where hard work can go, even in the classroom.”

Jaxon Foster #33: Sponsored by Nichol’s in Many

“Being an athlete inspires me to be a good person on and off the field.”

– J. Foster

Jaxon comes to the games ready to add strength, skill, and knowledge to the already amazing team of brothers that make up Many High School’s Football Team. With an impressive stat record of being able to bench 185, deadlift 315, and squat 355, Jaxon knows what it means to work hard for a goal and push yourself beyond your limits to achieve a great goal. 

1. What aspects of Football do you get most excited about?

“Getting Play time.”

2. What, in your opinion, makes an excellent football player?

“Skill, strength and knowledge of the game.”

3. What player do you or did you look up too?

“Ray Lewis”

4. What is your favorite part of the game?

“Offense”

5. Who was or is your most favorite Many High Player

“Jesse Curtis”

6. What are three reasons you like being part of a team sport?

“Brotherhood, One goal, Fun time”

7. How does being an athlete inspire you to do good?

“It makes me want to be a good person on and off the field.”

8. How does being an athlete make you a better student?

“To play football I need good grades.”

Jhevion Garner #55: Sponsored by Karmeena Garner and Tomiko’s Financial Services 

                                  “I look up to everyone on my team and I get most excited to be there with              them on game nights.”

-J. Garner

Jhevion represents a true team player in every aspect. He loves the camaraderie of the team and the atmosphere created by this band of brothers that is the Many High School Football Team. He looks up to each and every player for the unique skill-set they bring to the table and loves the competition of it all. 

1. What aspects of Football do you get most excited about?

“Being there with them, (my team).”

2. What, in your opinion, makes an excellent football player?
“Learning and loving what you do.”

3. What player do you or did you look up too?
“All of them!”

4. What is your favorite part of the game?
“Competition”

5. Who was or is your most favorite Many High Player
“No specific person, I love everyone the same!”

6. What are three reasons you like being part of a team sport?
“Leadership, Brotherhood, Respect”

7. How does being an athlete inspire you to do good?
“Physical, Passion & Pride”

8. How does being an athlete make you a better student?
“Interaction with other students and motivation.”

Deacon LaFollette #21: Sponsored by Grandma Jane Lovell, Mom Patrice Gossett, and his Family 

“An excellent football player is a great teammate with a great work ethic.”

-D. LoFollette

Deacon is a passionate football player with a love for the game as big as his respect and admiration for his teammates. He has been part of the Many High School Football Team for two years now and he looks up to his brothers on the team and strives to be a great player. He loves how hyped up the fans get on Friday nights and loves the win. 

1. What aspects of Football do you get most excited about?

“On game day when the fans are hyped up.”

2. What, in your opinion, makes an excellent football player?

“A great teammate with a great work ethic.”

3. What player do you or did you look up too?

“Fisher and Trotter LaFollette, My older brothers.”

4. What is your favorite part of the game?

“Winning is my favorite part!”

5. Who was or is your most favorite Many High Player

“Landon, Brock, Jack, Sean and Garrett because they are great teammates and good friends of mine.”

6. What are three reasons you like being part of a team sport?

“Making friends, Being apart of a team, and Winning with my friends”

7. How does being an athlete inspire you to do good?

“It makes me do better in school because I know I get to play when I get good grades.”

8. How does being an athlete make you a better student?

“I have friends on the team that keep me in check.”

Check out this week’s basketball scores in Sabine Parish along with the Power Rankings! 

Monday December 6

GIRLS

Florien 50 (16-1)
Pleasant Hill 35 (5-7)

Negreet 40 (9-8)
Castor 36 (5-8)

Many 42 (4-2)
North Desoto 31 (1-5)

BOYS

Florien 56 (7-8)
Pleasant Hill 49 (8-4)

Negreet 60 (6-10)
Castor 49 (2-11)

Tuesday December 7

GIRLS

Fairview 74 (16-4)
Ebarb 26 (6-9)

Singer 57 (9-7)
Pleasant Hill 36 (5-8)

Converse 51 (3-9)
Simpson 41 (2-12)

Florien 69 (17-1)
Pitkin 35 (5-9)

Hornbeck 34 (8-4)
Negreet 30 (9-9)

Zwolle 96 (9-3)
Logansport 41 (0-3)

BOYS

Fairview 90 (10-5)
Ebarb 64 (4-8)

Pleasant Hill 56 (9-4)
Singer 42 (7-9)

Simpson 54 (11-3)
Converse 40 (4-6)

Florien 70 (8-8)
Pitkin 49 (9-9)

Hornbeck 54 (11-0)
Negreet 53 (5-11)

Let’s go Many Tigers!!! The football team headed to the Superdome to play in the Class 2A State Championship game against Amite. BOM helped to sponsor a bus to the game Friday, pictured left to right: BOM Sabine Parish Market President Daniel Bennett, MHS Head Football Coach Jess Curtis, and BOM’s Tiffany Miller. 

A first responder is a real-life hero that responds first to an emergency or accident. Our Town is blessed to have people who care enough about others to risk their own lives in an effort to save someone else’s.  

The Town of Many is proud to have Police Officers, Sheriff’s Deputies, Fire Fighters, EMTs and Medical Personnel including doctors and nurses, that live and work all around the Parish to save the lives of others. We have asked them to serve as our Grand Marshals for the Merry Many Christmas Parade on December 18, at 2 pm. 

To say that this past year has been stressful for everyone with COVID-19 raging through our towns, our state, our country, and our world is an understatement of the highest order. “Front Line Workers” include every First Responder that answers the call to help those in need. We have all lost loved ones due to the pandemic but they will always live on in our hearts and memories. Many others have been saved from the tireless, unselfish efforts of our First Responders and we thank them all from the bottom of our hearts. 

When you see a First Responder, stop and thank them for their service. Shake their hand. Buy them a cup of coffee. Keep them in your prayers for safety and strength to carry on their mission in life. 

Life in Many and Sabine Parish is better with the dedicated men and women who serve as our First Responders.

St. Mary’s Catholic School will have a Live Nativity on Monday, December 13th from 6:00-8:00pm on the school campus. Junior high and high school students will depict scenes from the Christmas Story. Visitors may drive or walk through the nativity scenes. The school will also be collecting coats for CASA and Toys for Tots, which visitors may leave at a designated area. There is no admission cost for this event. We welcome the public to attend this special evening!

BOM is continuing our membership of the Northwestern State Sixth Man Club. Pictured from left are BOM’s Blaise LaCour, Jordan Luna (NSU Director of Basketball Operations), Scott Maggio (NSU Director of Ticket Operations and Special Events), Jeff Moore (NSU Associate Head Coach), BOM’s Claire Mayeaux, Mike McConathy (NSU Head Men’s Basketball Coach), and Johnny Cox (NSU Special Assistant to the Head Coach).

The 13th Annual Natchitoches-NSU Multicultural Christmas Concert was held at Treen Auditorium at the Louisiana School for Math, Science, and the Arts. The event was a benefit concert for the local nonprofit organization Cane River Children’s Services and was sponsored by the Louisiana Folklife Center, the NSU Center for Inclusion and Diversity and the Louisiana School for Math, Science, and the Arts.

The concert featured an array of both sacred and secular Christmas performances. Performances included seasonal songs performed by NSU student Allyson Adams, Cedrick Braxten, Callie Dupont, NSU Demon alumna Jill Dupont, Julia Dupont, and the LSMSA Chorale, directed by Lisa Benner; seasonal readings by the new Director of University Libraries for NSU Megan Lowe and Mary Linn Wernet of NSU’s Cammie G. Henry Research Center. Performances also included dancing by Jesse Foshee, the current Miss Natchitoches City of Lights Outstanding Teen, as well as the Anointed to Praise Dancers, choreographed by Shereka Jefferson; a cello performance by Sienna Henderson; a piano performance by Pearl Merry, the 2022 Miss City of Lights; and a performance on steel pan by Dr. Oliver Molina, Assistant Professor of Music and Assistant Director of Bands at NSU. The evening’s festivities concluded with a group singing of “Silent Night,” accompanied by Merry on piano and Molina on steel pan.

Many people contributed to making the event a success. The Louisiana Folklife Center staff, comprised of NSU students Armani Heckard, LeT’Anna Ledet, Aaron Malone and Olivia Sipes, graduate assistants Zoe Hebert and Chris Jay, as well as administrative coordinator Bessie Jones, planned and promoted the event. The Louisiana School for Math, Science, and the Arts hosted the event, with two NSU students, AV technician Derek Dupre and volunteer Caleb Helms running technical support.

“This year’s concert was magnificent,” said Dr. Shane Rasmussen, Professor of English and Director of the Louisiana Folklife Center. “The joy of the performers perfectly captured the spirit of the season in all of its cheer and wonder. That these artists volunteer to perform, freely donating their time and talents for the benefit of others, is what the season is all about. And we are so honored to be able to support such a worthy cause as Cane River Children’s Services. We’re already looking forward to next year’s event.”

Those wishing to make a donation to Cane River Children’s Services may do so by contacting CEO Jennifer Karle at (318) 352-9349, or by mailing a check to P.O. Box 2453, Natchitoches, LA 71457.

Looking for something to do with the family during winter break? Make time to get outside, unwind, and spend time with family and friends while fishing one of the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries’ (LDWF) 17 sites participating in the Get Out and Fish! community fishing program. LDWF stocks Get Out and Fish! ponds with adult-size channel catfish in the spring and fall, and rainbow trout in the winter, to increase your chances of bringing home a few keepers for a fish fry!

To add a little extra excitement to your fishing experience, LDWF will be hosting a tagged catfish derby at all of our Get Out and Fish! ponds between Saturday, December 18th, and Saturday, December 25th. Anglers who catch and report a tagged channel catfish caught at a Get Out and Fish! pond during the December 18-25 derby, will receive a fishing prize pack from LDWF. Each pond will have ten tagged channel catfish released with the other stocked catfish.

Anglers 16 and older must possess a Louisiana fishing license when fishing in any Louisiana public waters. Licenses are available for purchase online at https://www.wlf.louisiana.gov/page/recreational-fishing-licenses-and-permits. By purchasing a fishing license, Louisiana receives matching funds from the Sport Fish Restoration Program for public fishing and boating access, fishing programs and education and fisheries management.

Get Out and Fish! Community Fishing sites to be stocked with tagged catfish include:

Turner’s Pond – Minden
Grambling City Park Pond – Grambling
Elmore D. Mayfield Park – Ruston
Parc Natchitoches – Natchitoches
Pearson Lake, Forts Randolph & Buhlow State Historic Site – Pineville

This event is hosted in conjunction with the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Foundation (LAWFF). The LAWFF was formed to help expand and support LDWF education and research programs with additional resources developed through its own facilities. Encouraging support for LDWF programs is the major focus of the Foundation, accomplished by connecting people and businesses with Louisiana’s natural resources. 

NATCHITOCHES:

Edna Sue Prudhomme
May 22, 1929 – December 9, 2021
Service: Tuesday, December 14 at 1:30 pm at Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church in Campti

The Amite Warriors put an end to the Many Tigers’ dream of winning back to back Class 2A state football titles on Friday afternoon in the Ceasars Superdome in New Orleans.

In a defensive slugfest, Amite edged the Tigers 17-6 to win the title in the Warriors’ last year in 2A before moving up to 3A next year.

Many, playing in the state championship game for a third straight season, finished with a 13-2 record. Amite wrapped up with an 11-2 record, but it included two forfeits attributed to administrative errors leading to an ineligible player taking part in the first two games.

The teams had met last season in the quarterfinal round at Amite, when Many prevailed in a 34-30 shootout. This was just as competitive, but without much offensive production.

Amite took a 3-0 halftime lead, and scored twice more before Many got on the board midway through the final quarter. The Tigers had averaged nearly 50 points per game, but were never able to break big plays on the Warriors as they had in every other game this year.

Many’s defense was actually the stingiest of the two, but Amite did manage to break loose on a handful on plays and had a big advantage in field position after halftime.

The Tigers had a chance to score first. After a long, methodical opening drive, Many reached the end zone from the 7-yard-line but a Jeremiah James touchdown run was brought back by a holding penalty. The Tigers had to settle for a field goal attempt that failed. The missed scoring opportunity proved to be huge for the Tigers and gave Amite the ball with no score in the contest.

The first half was a war in the trenches as expected. The Amite defensive line proved to be a superior unit. The physicality of the group matched or superseded the Tigers’ offensive line unit.

After some great defensive plays on both sides, the half ended with Amite on top 3-0 on a 34-yard Llam Adamson field goal with 1:32 to go. The score at half marked the first game in two seasons that the Tigers trailed at half, the last time being in the Dome against Ferriday in the 2019 finals.

Amite scored again midway through the third quarter on quarterback Jalen Robinson’s 17-yard run to go ahead 10-0 after Adamson’s kick. Another Amite touchdown, this one in the fourth quarter on an Earl Jackson run from 9 yards out, built the Warriors’ advantage to 17-0 with 9:27 to play.

The Tigers roared to life by taking the kickoff and driving the length of the field, scoring with 6:30 to play on a 16-yard London Williams touchdown run. That was Many’s longest run of the afternoon. The conversion failed, leaving the deficit at 17-6.

Many got a spark when Garet Culverson recovered the ensuing onside kick, but the Tigers couldn’t get a first down and Amite ground out most of the remaining time left to win its sixth state championship, and the Warriors’ first title since 2018.

The Tigers outgained the Warriors in yardage 211-153 and also led in first downs 13-12. Williams, who picked up his first Division I college scholarship offer last week from nearby Northwestern State, led the Tigers in rushing with 101 yards and scored his 47^th touchdown of the season. But the only statistic that really matters is the final score and that’s where the Tigers came up short.

The Tigers and head coach Jess Curtis had a tremendous season. With 17 starters coming back, they look for next year to be another run toward the Dome.

“Such a tremendous football team I have. I’m blessed to coach them every day,” said Curtis. “Tonight wasn’t our night. Our timing was off. You have to credit Amite, they played extremely well, especially defensively.

“Our team has been so good this year, answered so many challenges. Our offense has been one of the best in the state. One night of bad football isn’t the end of the world. This group will be in the mix next fall, with 17 starters back.

“I just want to tip my hat to my seniors. They’re a special group of guys. They’ve been to three straight state championship games, and that’s hard to do, hard to be that consistently good. That’s my message. There’s a lot to be proud about,” said Curtis. 

Scoring Summary

2^nd Quarter

1:32 A – Llam Adamson 34 yard FG, Amite 3-0

3^rd Quarter

6:12 A – Jalen Robinson 17 yard run, Adamson kick, Amite 10-0

4^th Quarter

9:27 A – Earl Jackson 9 yard run, Adamson kick, Amite 17-0

6:30 M- London Williams 16 yard run, conversion failed, Amite 17-6

Individual Stats

Rushing

M – London Williams 22-101, 1 TD, Jeremiah James 16-46, Tackett Curtis 8-32,

Trevor McLendon 2-9

A – Jalen Robinson 8-59, 1 TD, Earl Jackson 7-25, 1 TD, Brennan Harrell 5-11, Zhamere Ard 2-0

Passing

M – Curtis 2-9-1, 27 yards

Our Many High School Tigers made it to the dome! Though they aren’t coming home with a win, they played their hearts out in an incredible game to match an incredible season. The Sabine Parish Journal is honored to continue to put the spotlight on the players that made the season possible. Help us congratulate Sabine Parish’s own Boys of Fall as we introduce you to the next round of Tiger Players! 

Without further ado, The Sabine Parish Journal brings you the Tiger Football Player Spotlight: Round 2!

Hunter Goodman #80: Sponsored by parents Chris and Aimee Goodman.

                   “Being an athlete inspires me to do good because I know that even when I am not thinking                    about it someone is watching. Younger kids are looking up to me and I have to be a positive role model.”

-H. Goodman

Hunter played six years of youth league football, once year of Many Jr. High football and two years of football at Many High School. He says that he has played since he was just six years old. Hunter Loves the team aspect of the game and the brotherhood that it inspires. 

1. What aspects of Football do you get most excited about?

“The aspects of football I get most excited about are the brotherhood that is formed and the teamwork. As a team we lookout for each other and are always there to build each other up.”

2. What, in your opinion, makes an excellent football player?

“An excellent football player is one who understands that this is a team sport. Each player on the tea plays a necessary part. Each part has to work together in order to make the team a success.”

3. What player do you or did you look up to?

“There isn’t just one player I look up to. There are many players at all levels. I have watched the NFL, college, high school and youth leagues. If I am honest, I would say that I look up to the players who play with heart and a love of the sport and their teammates.”

4. What is your favorite part of the game? 

“My favorite part of the game is the pregame. One of the best parts is taking the field and hearing all of our fans cheering for us and showing their love and support for our team. It is a great feeling knowing our fans believe in us!”

5. Who was or is your most favorite Many High Player?

“Ethan Knippers because he was a player who took the time to talk to us as freshman and give us encouragement.”

6. What are three reasons you like being part of a team sport?

“Friendships, the brotherhood, being surrounded by people who love the sport as much as I do.”

7.How does being an athlete inspire you to do good?

“Being an athlete inspires me to do good because I know that even when I am not thinking about it someone is watching. Younger kids are looking up to me and I have to be a positive role model.”

8. How does being an athlete make you a better student?

“I am inspired to be a good student because I love to play football. If my grades aren’t good, I can’t play.”

Ky’Xavier Warren #17: Sponsored by mom, Kay Warren, Granny, Brenda, and Aunt Missy

                   “Hard work, dedication, attitude and skill makes an excellent football player.”

-K. Warren

Ky’Xavier has always loved the game of Football. He has played on a city league for two years and dedicated two yeas to playing for Many Junior High. He is currently a freshman on the Many High School team and believes that being an athlete helps him strive to do better, be better, and get better grades.

1. What aspects of football do you get most excited about?
“Defensive excitement, the tackles, defensive touchdowns, physical toughness, and most of all teamwork”

2. What in your opinion, makes an excellent football player?
“Hard work, dedication, attitude and skill makes an excellent football player”

3. What player do you or did you look up too?
“My cousin Defensive End Myron Warren who plays for Texas Longhorns”

4. What is your favorite part of the game?
“My favorite part of the game is making a big play”

5. Who was your most favorite Many High Player?
“Myron Warren ℅ 2019”

6. What are three reasons you like being part of a team sport?
“Bonding, Learning, Relationships with peers, they turn into family”

7. How does being an athlete inspire you to do good?
“Being a athlete makes me strive to do better”

8. How does being an athlete make you a better student?
“Being an athlete keeps me motivated to get good grades”

John Harris #81: Sponsored by Jodi Harris

                   “The moment you know all of your hard work has prepared you for the game and win!“

-J. Harris

John has been a Many Tiger for two years now. This year was his first year to play football! Prior to being a player, he was the team’s videographer. He looks up to his older brother and says that seeing others do well is contagious to him and sets the tone for what he needs to do as well! 

1. What aspects of Football do you get most excited about?
“The moment you know all of your hard work has prepared you for the game and win!”

2. What, in your opinion, makes an excellent football player?
“Drive, focus and commitment”

3. What player do you or did you look up too?
“My brother, Bradley Harris #68”

4. What is your favorite part of the game?
“When what you need to do is clear and you can do it well.”

5. Who was or is your most favorite Many High Player
“My Brother, Bradley Harris #68”

6. What are three reasons you like being part of a team sport?
“Being a part of a team, encourages you, prepares you and makes you accountable.”

7. How does being an athlete inspire you to do good?
“Seeing others do well is contagious and sets a tone for me.”

8. How does being an athlete make you a better student?
“Being an athlete gives me confidence and measures me.”

Tre French #85: Sponsored by Anthony and Crystal Bass

                   “One aspect of football I get most excited about is getting to run out of the tunnel on                                 Friday Nights and hearing all the fans cheering and the band playing. It makes all           the hard work during the week worth it.“

-T. French

Tre has played for the Tigers for one year. Before joining the football team he was part of the Many Tiger Band for four years and an active member of FCA. Tre loves the drive that football requires and loves when the crowd shows up to get excited for the team following the lead of the band. 

1. What aspects of Football do you get most excited about?
“One aspect of football I get most excited about is getting to run out of the tunnel on Friday Nights and hearing all the fans cheering and the band playing. It makes all the hard work during the week worth it.”

2. What, in your opinion, makes an excellent football player?
“In my opinion, something that makes a good football player is drive. The main to be successful is repetition and to be able to repeat requires drive.”

3. What player do you or did you look up too?
“One player I look up to is Sean Mitcham. Being a brother to a person is one thing but having someone looking out for you and making sure that you are getting better and doing things right is another and Sean makes sure I get better.”

4. What is your favorite part of the game?
“My favorite part of the game is halftime. Not for the reason many people think but because its a time where we decide to come back stronger than before and it really shows in the game.”

5. Who was or is your most favorite Many High Player
“My favorite Many Tiger ever is probably most peoples favorite and that’s AJ Carter.”

6. What are three reasons you like being part of a team sport?
“There is a brotherhood that comes with playing football. Its an escape for some people to just play a game that makes them happy. The coaching staff are some of the nicest people you will ever meet and they are like second dads to a lot of people.”

7. How does being an athlete inspire you to do good?
“Being an athlete inspires me to do good because people at a younger age watch the things we do and especially being a MHS football player those younger kids are watching us. So if we do good these younger kids will do good in the later years.”

8. How does being an athlete make you a better student?
“Playing football makes me a better student because to be able to play football you need good grades so it pushes me to do better.”

Layton Pleasant #70: Sponsored by parents Eric and Kristi Pleasant and sister Presley

“In my opinion what makes an excellent football player is being coachable. Being told what you did wrong and going to fix it.”

-L. Pleasant

Layton has played football since he was five years old and has loved it since day one. He did youth football league in Natchitoches and then Many. He played for the Many Junior High Football Team for two years prior to becoming a Many Tiger on the High School Team! Layton loves the excitement of the pre-game warm up and the hype of the speeches. 

1. What aspects of Football do you get most excited about?
“Pre-game warmups and speeches.”

2. What, in your opinion, makes an excellent football player?
“In my opinion what makes an excellent football player is being coachable. Being told what you did wrong and going to fix it.”

3. What player do you or did you look up too?
“Garrett Thomas”

4. What is your favorite part of the game?

“My favorite part of the game is the long after school practices.”

5. Who was or is your most favorite Many High Player?

“Jack Deville”

6. What are three reasons you like being part of a team sport?
“Brotherhood, Responsibilities, Communication”

7. How does being an athlete inspire you to do good?
“It inspires you to act right in class.”

8. How does being an athlete make you a better student?
“You have to act right because your sport can be taken in seconds.”

Today is the day the Many Tigers football team has had in its hearts and minds since collecting last year’s Class 2A state championship.

That game, thanks to the pandemic, took place nearby in Natchitoches at NSU’s Turpin Stadium. More Tiger fans got to watch in person as Many held off Kinder, than would’ve likely made the trip to New Orleans to play for the state crown in the Caesars Superdome.

Today, the Tigers may not have quite as big a hometown crowd, but they will get an even bigger thrill when they take center stage in the state’s premium sports venue, in the bright lights and the big city, kicking off at 3:30 against Amite with the 2A state title at stake.

The Many radio crew of Randy Bostian and Brad Ford will have their broadcast on 99.9 KTEZ FM, beginning at 2:55. A pay-per-view telecast is available at the https://www.nfhsnetwork.com/events/lhsaa/gamd0250e4199 link on the internet.

After edging Avoyelles 40-38 in the semifinals, the Tigers will make their third straight appearance in the state championship game. They lost to Ferriday in 2019 in the Superdome, won last year at NSU, and in 2014 they beat Kinder for the state crown in the ‘Dome after losing the previous season

Amite beat Jonesboro-Hodge 35-26 in the other semifinal game, overcoming a 13-0 first-half deficit at home. The Warriors won the 2018 2A championship in their last finals appearance, after losing twice earlier last decade. They are aiming for their sixth state title, their third this century.

The Tigers come into the contest with a record of 13-1 while Amite’s record is 10-2. The Warriors did not lose a game on the field this season; they were forced to forfeit two early games due to an ineligible player. They also had their first two games cancelled due to hurricane damage.

Many edged Amite 34-30 last season in a quarterfinal matchup at Amite. That game has not been forgotten by either side; it went right down to the last play with Amite throwing into the end zone, and was a very physical contest.

“That was such a great game,” said Many coach Jess Curtis. “To go in and win at Amite, a place with such great tradition, really was an achievement. I expect it to be the same kind of game this year.”

The Tigers headed south early Thursday morning, making a stop in Baton Rouge for lunch before their afternoon photo session and practice time in the Superdome.

The Tigers will be led by a ground game that has produced yards and points all season. Running backs London Williams and Jeremiah James have toted the rock all season long and don’t look for much to change in the finals. Williams leads the state, in all classes, in rushing yards (2,545), touchdowns (46), and total points (308). James has really come on this season and runs the ball extremely hard.

Many’s big offensive line will have their hands full with a host of returning defensive linemen from Amite. Joe Cryer, Ja’Korey Jones, Cole Pickett, James Hickman, and Garrett Foster will be up front opening holes for the running game.

The Tiger defense has been making big hits and big plays despite the loss of starting linebacker Marquis Maxie to a knee injury. Keaton Montgomery had a great semifinal game from the middle linebacker position and will be backed up by Tackett Curtis, Tylen Singleton, and Javyvion Smart in a talent-laden secondary.

The defensive line will play a huge role in keeping the offensive linemen off the backers and secondary so they can make tackles. Swayze Carheel, Nick Tatum, and Demario Glover to name a few will need to have strong games for the Tiger defense.

Award winners from last week’s semifinal game were London Williams with the Foy’s Game Ball and the Hard Hat Awards, while Tackett Curtis was recipient of the Sledge Hammer award.

Amite is led by a group of seniors. Mississippi State commit Javae Gilmore is a 6’4” wide receiver/linebacker who will play defense in the Southeastern Conference next fall. Senior backs Brennan Harrell, Earl Jackson, and Korrill Mearridy lead the Warriors offense along with junior quarterback Jalen Robinson.

All Many fans traveling to New Orleans should check the LHSAA.org website for admission information, particularly about the requirements related to vaccinations mandated by the city government.

Natchitoches Louisiana, our heart, home of one off the top ten Christmas Festivals in our great nation. How many happy memories we are blessed with. But some of our own right here in Natchitoches may only have tragedy to remember this year and this is where I ask you to join me in preforming a Christmas miracle for this family, these devastated children. Here is their story:

Tameka Helaire gave birth to a beautiful baby boy Karson 6 weeks ago in Natchitoches. Tameka was already a single mother of Robyn Burr (12 yrs. old) and Connor Burr (2yrs. old). Shortly after giving birth Tameka developed spinal meningitis. Her children were left in the care of their grandmother Martha Adkins who is almost 70 and her sister Karen Helaire who is a single mother of two teenaged daughters.

The Natchitoches hospital was heroic in Tamekas care and she was on the mend. She suddenly developed secondary symptoms and was transferred to a New Orleans hospital. We now know from the autopsy that Tameka unfortunately developed a blood clot that took her life.

Martha Adkins still works almost every day and Karen (my massage therapist from Hair Bar in Natchitoches) and dear friend works three jobs. She is also a sitter with the elderly and a clerk at local all in one gas station.

How can you help preform a Christmas miracle with me for this family? I’m praying for two things from you. First, if you can, send a $15 donation to Love fund #43614484 set up at Bank of Montgomery (BOM) in Natchitoches. The code for phone number/email is 3185276279. Or drop off girls clothing size 16 for Robyn age 12, boys clothing size 3 T for Connor and size 0/3 or larger for baby Karson (toys for Christmas are also welcome) to the Hair Bar owned by my daughter Lesha and son-in-law Carey Etheredge. The address for clothing or toy drop offs is Hair Bar 234 Keyser Ave. Natchitoches, LA 71457

In addition, PLEASE share this story on any social media site you can. Even if you have no means to financially help, your sharing this story may get it in the hands of someone who can. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Many blessings to you and yours this Christmas.
Debbie Waskom