Sabine Parish School Board schools and offices will remain closed on Wednesday, Jan. 22.
After consulting with the Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office and the NWS, with temperatures dropping below freezing overnight, any melted ice or snow will refreeze, creating the potential for icy roads during the morning commute. Due to the possibility of these hazardous driving conditions, we will remain closed.
Classes will resume on Thursday, Jan. 23. Stay safe and warm.
The Town of Many has officially unveiled its updated district map, following the decennial census. As required by the U.S. Constitution, the town has reapportioned its voting districts to ensure fair and balanced representation for all residents.
The updated map reflects changes that may affect which district or council member residents are now represented by. The new district boundaries are as follows:
District A: Mary Perry
District B: Anita Darwin
District C: Bobbie Jackson
District D: Cherry Williams
At Large: Mary Brocato
Residents are encouraged to consult the new map to determine if their district or council representative has changed.
The Town of Many invites residents to stay informed and reach out with any questions regarding the changes.
The Toledo Cruisers are gearing up for the 10th Annual May Daze Car Show, set to roll into town on Saturday, May 10 from 9 AM – 1 PM at Many High School.
Celebrating a decade of showcasing incredible vehicles, the event promises something for everyone, from car enthusiasts to families looking for a fun day out. Attendees can look forward to over 25 awards, live music, exciting door prizes, and a variety of food vendors.
This milestone year offers a unique opportunity to relive the best moments of the past nine years while enjoying a day filled with fantastic cars, great company, and community spirit.
Mark your calendars now and join in on this exciting celebration! Whether you’re there for the cars, the food, or just to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, the Toledo Cruisers’ May Daze Car Show promises to be an unforgettable event. Don’t miss out!
A missing dog in the Ebarb/Blue Lake area has been safely returned home after a wave of community support and shared efforts. The search began when the family’s house dog went missing following an incident on Jan. 13.
According to the pet’s owner, They noticed the dog in the yard as he left for the day but believes the dog may have tried to follow him. After noticing the dog was gone, The family immediately began searching the area but were unable to locate their pet.
“We seriously have the worst luck with dogs!” the family wrote in a social media post, appealing to the community for help.
The dog, who was not wearing a collar at the time, was last seen near the family’s driveway. They offered a $200 reward for the safe return of their beloved pet.
In response to the family’s plea, locals quickly mobilized to help, sharing the post across social media and canvassing the area in search of the missing dog.
The dog has now been safely reunited with the family, and the community’s efforts proved to be a heartwarming reminder of the power of collective action.
By Steve Graf
Last week we talked about the early journey of my life and the difficulties I faced before the age of 9. Today we’ll continue this journey of perseverance and determination, along with two people who changed the course of my life forever.
At the ripe old age of seven, and with my Little League baseball career on hold due to an age issue, I truly struggled in school the entire first half of the school year. Then that Christmas in 1968 my aunt and uncle (Laverne and Loyd Graf Jr.) came to Rosenberg, Texas, and brought me to their home in Northeast Texas…Mt. Pleasant.
My aunt enrolled me in school there and I spent Christmas break and the entire spring and early summer trying to get caught up so I could finish out the first grade. I was also blessed to have a 1st grade teacher by the name of Mickey Sinclair who played a huge roll in me passing and moving on to the 2nd grade.
This was when my life began to change for the good. I passed the first grade and spent the entire summer of ’68 there with my aunt and uncle working and playing on their ranch. It was an awesome summer as I made new friends and met my best bud…. Kevin Owsley. We took swimming lessons and played on the same Pee Wee League team, the Yankees!
We had some great sleep overs and camping trips while becoming as close as brothers. I also learned how to fish and what it meant to do chores on our ranch. It really was the best summer of my life! It was also the beginning of my baseball playing career and it didn’t take me long to realize, this sport was going take me places. God had blessed me with athletic ability and a good throwing arm. Turns out, sports gave me a purpose in life and a sense of belonging.
At the end of the summer of ’68, my bio mom came and picked me up and took me back to Houston where I started the 2nd grade. I really missed my aunt and uncle, along with all my friends back in Mt. Pleasant. Once again, there I was at the age of 8 and back into the same bad environment, struggling in school, but this time my mom had moved us to Houston.
I was staying out till all hours of the night and running the streets of Houston while living in an apartment complex that did not have the best people living there. With so much freedom and mingling with thieves and drug dealers on a regular basis, bad temptations were a constant. I was actually smoking cigarettes and if you’re wondering, Marlboro was my choice of sticks. Now instead of just looking for food in the neighborhood, I’m also looking for smokes.
During my time in Houston, I always knew that the people I was hanging with were not held in high esteem. For some reason, (only God knows) I separated myself from them and tried to keep my distance. One thing that came out of this, was the fact that I became street wise at a very early age and learned how to read people pretty quick. No doubt that the Lord above was looking out for me at this time of my life as I was headed down the wrong road.
Failing the 2nd grade at Christmas…again… Aunt Laverne and Uncle Jr. drove to Houston and picked me up and took me back to Mt. Pleasant for good. Once again, I found myself doing extra schoolwork during the holidays and the following spring of ’69 to get caught up and pass the 2nd grade. But for me, my biggest joy was the fact that I was back with my friends and playing baseball once again for the Pee Wee League Yankees. By the way, the Yankees in two seasons under Coach James Stansell, were 24-0!!!
Then a day that’s burned in my memory occurred. At the end of the summer of ’69, my bio mom showed up and was planning on taking me back to Houston. But my aunt and uncle stepped in and said “no” and felt it was better for me to stay with them permanently. So, I remember quite vividly the day my mom gave me a hug and a kiss on the cheek and told me how much she loved me as I watched her with sadness in my heart, drive away for the last time. Even though I talked with her maybe a handful of times, I never saw her again until the day of her funeral.
To this day, I can’t imagine how hard this must have been for her, but looking back, she knew it was the best thing she could ever do for me. As a parent myself with three awesome kids, I cannot even fathom giving up any one of them for any reason! Sadly, my bio mom was just not capable of raising two boys on her own since she had already divorced for the second time. But for me, I finally had some consistency and direction in my life and all was good!
Next week I’ll wrap up this incredible journey and give credit to the two people who made a commitment to a young boy and put him on the path to success.Till next time, good luck, good fishing and don’t forget your sunscreen.
For over 90 years, City Bank & Trust Company has been an integral part of the Natchitoches community, with additional branches located in Campti, Many, Shreveport, Bossier, and a Loan Production Office in McKinney, Texas. As technology increasingly influences how both consumers and businesses manage their banking needs, it is crucial for us to stay at the forefront by offering innovative services. Since April 2024, City Bank has made significant progress by implementing key services designed to help our customers bank more efficiently. These services are provided at no cost to City Bank customers.
Direct Connect (Quicken and QuickBooks) – This service allows you to manage your finances more effectively by linking your City Bank account directly to your Quicken and QuickBooks software.
Positive Pay – Our Positive Pay service is a robust anti-fraud tool that helps protect your business account from unauthorized transactions. It enables you to manage payment risks related to fraudulent checks and electronic ACH items, allowing you to take proactive measures against fraud.
Digital Wallets (Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay) – Digital wallets offer a secure method for storing your VISA debit card information on a mobile device, such as a smartphone, smartwatch, or tablet. With a digital wallet, you can easily make purchases without needing a physical card at various locations, including retail stores, online, and within apps.
Zelle through Online Banking – In addition to being available on our mobile app, Zelle can also be accessed through Online Banking. By providing multiple access points, we allow customers to use this service in the most convenient way for them.
We are also excited to announce the upcoming launch of the ScoreCard Rewards program for consumer and business VISA debit cards. This rewards program will allow our customers to earn points on qualifying debit card transactions, which can be redeemed for merchandise, travel, gift cards, and much more. Stay tuned for more details soon!
“We are thrilled to announce a range of new services designed to enhance our customers’ banking experience and meet their evolving needs. These improvements provide a convenient, secure, and simple way for customers to manage their finances anytime and anywhere. Our dedication to continuous innovation and the integration of technology ensures that our customers benefit from the latest features in modern banking. We eagerly anticipate the upcoming launch of ScoreCard Rewards for all City Bank VISA debit cardholders.” – John Ackel, President/CEO
“City Bank has made significant progress over the past year to increase our suite of services. We will continue to conduct research that addresses the needs of our customers, not only for today but also for the future. As our slogan suggests, “WHERE TRADITION MEETS TOMORROW,” we recognize the importance of our strong heritage while striving to remain competitive in a challenging environment by anticipating future demands. Our employees provide exceptional service, and it is vital that our offerings reflect that high level of service. We invite you to follow us on Facebook to stay updated on the exciting new services being introduced at City Bank.” – Brandon McKee, Chief Financial Officer
Thank you for allowing us to serve your banking needs for so many decades. At City Bank, we are dedicated to enhancing our customers’ banking experiences by providing the services and products necessary for effective and secure financial management. If you have any questions about the services mentioned, please do not hesitate to contact our Senior Deposit Operation Specialist, Joanna Washington, at 318-357-3754 or visit our website at www.mycitybank.com.
It was one of those days.
The schedule for the day had me on I-20 headed west toward Shreveport. It was raining felines and canines.
Rain is not bothersome to me. I have been driving since telephones were attached to the wall. I became proficient by spending a summer driving on I-95 between Fort Lauderdale and Miami, Florida. I grew up in North Alabama, so I know about driving on ice and snow. While in Louisiana, I drove in tropical rainstorms and fog so dense the hood of your own vehicle disappeared. My adage is to slow down and be deliberate.
In all my years of driving, I have not one time used my emergency flashers while driving. When did the snowflakes take over our roads? Buck up, Paco! Even the truckers were using their flashers while driving on the Interstate. Where did you people learn about this abomination? Did you know it is illegal in Louisiana? Did you know it doesn’t help me see you better? Do you know it just affirms what most of us behind you already know, you can’t drive! So next time it is raining felines and canines, pull completely over to the shoulder of the road and turn on those emergency flashers to your heart’s content. I feel like Andy Rooney now! But I do feel better. Quit it!
I suppose those drivers are looking for a way to feel safe and in control in an environment in which they have little control. I have unwelcome news. There are only two things you can control. You can control your actions. You can control your attitude. That is about it.
Jesus said this, “So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore, do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”
The Greek word for worry can be translated as “anxiety or care.” I think Jesus just told me not to “care” so much about the emergency flashers during rainstorms. Yes, I can control my attitude. You too?
Most of my life, I wasn’t a fan of Mardi Gras king cakes. Even during the decades when I consumed bucketsful of sugar—cereal straight out of the box, candy by the case—I still thought king cakes were over the top. Too sweet, too dry, too artificial. The filled ones I came across were like oversized jelly donuts with what seemed like overly sweet and gelatinous, pre-made canned filling, a thick, crackly layer of icing finished with so much colored granulated sugar it looked like someone emptied out the craft cabinet.
But it wasn’t just the sweetness that left me cold—it was the disappointment. King cake was supposed to be special, fun, and festive, but it rarely lived up to the celebration. And I’ve always believed that disappointment in food is disappointment in the experience it represents. I didn’t want something that only looked festive; I wanted something that tasted like joy itself.
For those who’ve never had one, a Mardi Gras king cake isn’t exactly what you’d think of as a traditional cake. It’s more like a cross between a coffee cake and a sweet roll, shaped into an oval or circle to symbolize unity and tradition. The dough is soft, slightly sweet, and often swirled with cinnamon, though some versions include rich fillings like cream cheese or praline. After baking, it’s topped with a glossy layer of icing and sprinkled with purple, green, and gold sugar—each color representing justice, faith, and power. And somewhere inside that cake, a tiny plastic baby is tucked away (those these days they’re mostly found on top). Tradition says that whoever finds the baby in their slice is responsible for bringing the next king cake to the party—a sweet burden, if you ask me.
Back then, on the rare occasion when I’d try another slice, I always found the same issues: dry cake and fillings that tasted like they came from a can. And dry cake was a deal-breaker for me. There’s that age-old debate—cake or pie? Younger me was Team Cake all day…unless it was dry. A dry cake would send me straight to the nearest pie without hesitation. Pie is never dry.
So when I opened Loblolly Bakery in Hattiesburg—a town just 90 miles from Mobile, where Mardi Gras began, and a little over an hour from New Orleans, where it became legendary—I knew a king cake was non-negotiable. But it had to be different. It had to be stellar.
Two years ago, as part of my research and development, I went all-in on king cakes. When I open a new concept, I don’t cut corners. I travel, taste, and learn everything I can in search of inspiration. Sometimes that process takes years. When it came to king cakes, I headed straight to New Orleans and came home with 32 different king cakes from some of the most respected bakeries in the city. Seriously, thirty-two king cakes. That’s a lot of sugar, even for younger me.
I’d heard for years that Dong Phuong Bakery—a James Beard Award winner with a devoted following—had the best king cake around. I went into the king-cake tasting project determined to see if someone else could top them. Truthfully, I was on a mission to disprove the hype. But after taste-testing my way through New Orleans, I had to admit the excitement was real. Their king cake was exceptional. Soft, moist dough. Smooth, balanced icing—not too sweet, not too thick. No mountains of colored sugar on top. It was everything a king cake should be.
That’s when I knew our task: through reverse engineering, create a king cake that hit all the right notes but stayed true to what makes Loblolly Bakery special. I didn’t want to straight copy anyone else, but I did want to use Dong Phuong as my inspiration and capture the same excellence that made them a household name.
Maybe your first memory of king cake was your grandmother slicing it after Sunday dinner, or maybe you’ve only ever tried one from a grocery store display with a plastic baby sliding around in the icing. No matter how you came to know it, there’s something universal about wanting food that feels worth celebrating. That’s what we set out to create.
It took some time, and we didn’t nail it on the first try. Actually, we didn’t nail it in the first year. But we kept at it. During the off-season, our team met, made adjustments, and set goals. By mid-December, we finally got there.
Our king cake is soft, moist, and filled with real ingredients—not canned donut filling. The blueberries in our blueberry king cake come from my friend Tim Goggans’ farm, frozen at the peak of the season so they’re just as vibrant months later. We make a classic cinnamon and cream cheese version and a pecan praline because, in this part of the world, you can’t talk Mardi Gras without praline. My personal favorite is lemon curd, and even though it’s not in the daily rotation, I’m excited to roll it out as a special feature sometime this season.
We offer king cake versions of our food at most of our concepts— king cake French toast at The Midtowner and a king cake milkshake at Ed’s Burger Joint. Two nights ago, a family drove three hours from Orange Beach, Alabama, to Crescent City Grill after seeing a video about our king cake bread pudding. They were on a mission (one that I can appreciate because I’ve done it before)—three hours on the road, an hour and a half for dinner, then three hours back home, in the rain, at night. That’s commitment.
When I heard their story, I walked over to their table to thank them. The dad smiled like someone who’d just won the lottery. They apparently follow me on TikTok and had seen the king cake bread pudding reel and decided to make a road trip. While they were dining, I ran down to the bakery, grabbed a fresh king cake, and dropped it off at their table. I’d like to think they made it home with the cake intact…but if they didn’t, I understand. I’ve been that excited before, too.
Many think that king cakes are only coveted in the Mardi Gras nerve centers of New Orleans, Coastal Mississippi, and Mobile. But they are valued, appreciated, and enjoyed all over South Mississippi. This year, we’re taking our king cakes on the road with Loblolly pop-ups. Every morning, we load up 100 cakes and head to different towns across the Pine Belt—Wiggins, Purvis, Columbia, Petal, Bellevue, Laurel, and beyond. People were driving 40 miles or more to the bakery, only to find out we’d sold out for the day. So, we decided to bring the cakes to them. It’s more work, but it’s worth it to see the excitement on people’s faces.
When I handed that king cake to the dad from Orange Beach the other night, it struck me: food isn’t just sustenance—it’s memory. It’s the stories you tell years later about the drive you took, the dinner you shared, the joy of a small indulgence that felt like an event. We’re proud of what we’ve created, but what makes me happiest is knowing our king cake might become a part of someone’s story.
Somewhere along the way, I went from king cake skeptic to king cake believer. It’s funny how time changes our tastes. The foods we once avoided can become the ones we savor. I didn’t touch turnip greens until I was 40. Now they’re a staple at my table. King cake might just top that list for me.
So, what’s the food you swore you’d never love that became a part of your story? Mardi Gras reminds us to keep an open mind and celebrate the surprises along the way. Life is sweeter when we make room for something new.
Laissez les bons temps rouler!
Onward.
KING CAKE BREAD PUDDING
2 cups milk
2 cups heavy whipping cream
3/4 cup sugar, divided
4 egg yolks
8 eggs
2 tsp vanilla
1/8 tsp salt
1 tsp cinnamon
1 8-10” round cream cheese filled King Cake
Place the milk, cream and half of the sugar in a small sauce pot and place over medium heat. Bring this mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent the sugar from burning. While the milk mixture is heating, place the remaining sugar, egg yolks, whole eggs, vanilla and salt into a stainless-steel mixing bowl. Using a wire whisk, beat the egg mixture until it become light yellow in color. Slowly begin adding the hot milk to the beaten eggs, whisking constantly to prevent the eggs from cooking.
Cut the King Cake into two-inch thick slices.
Pour half of the custard into a two-quart round Pyrex baking dish (nine-inch diameter).
Submerge the King cake slices into the custard. Pour the remaining custard over the top and cover the baking dish. Cover and refrigerate over night.
Preheat oven to 325 degrees.
Remove the covering from the refrigerated bread pudding and gently press down the King Cake so that the custard completely covers the surface. Cover the bread pudding with a piece of parchment paper, and then cover the paper with a piece of aluminum foil.
In a roasting pan large enough to hold the Pyrex dish, place two inches of hot water. Place the Pyrex dish in the water and bake for 40 minutes. Remove the foil and parchment paper and bake for 10 additional minutes.
Remove from the oven and allow the pudding to rest for one hour before serving.
Serve with Brandy Crème Anglaise
Yields 8-10 servings
Brandy Crème Anglaise
1cup cream
1/2 cup half and half
1/4 cup brandy
3/4 cup sugar, divided
4 egg yolks
1 tsp vanilla extract
In a stainless steel pot bring the cream, half and half, brandy, half of the sugar and to vanilla a simmer. While it is heating, combine the yolks and remaining sugar in a mixing bowl and whip until pale yellow in color.
Slowly begin adding the cream mixture into to yolks, stirring constantly until all the milk has cream mixture has been added. Pour the mixture back into the sauce pot and cook over a low-medium flame stirring constantly. Cook until the mixture becomes thick enough to coat a spoon or spatula.
Remove from the heat and cool down in an ice bath.
This sauce may be made two-three days in advance.
Yields : 8-10 servings
By Brad Dison
Beginning a career as a physician in the 1880s was difficult. For Dr. Arthur, it was more difficult than for many other of his former classmates because Dr. Arthur was from a poor family. By the time he entered medical school in Edinburgh, Scotland, Arthur’s father had died and left behind a widow and ten children. The only way Arthur was able to enroll in medical school in the first place was from the generosity of one of his uncles. While in school, Arthur apprenticed for a couple of different doctors who made so little money in their profession that rather than earning a salary, Arthur received room and board. At that time, doctors made and sold a lot of their own medicines. One of the doctors under whom Arthur apprenticed charged no consultation fee. His only source of income came from the sale of his medicines.
In the spring of 1882, Dr. Arthur was invited to join the practice of one of his classmates in Plymouth, England. Dr. Arthur readily agreed and began seeing patients in the little room his former classmate had set up for him. Mostly, he dealt with cases that his former classmate did not want to handle. Within a couple of months, Dr. Arthur’s former classmate’s attitude inexplicably changed toward him. Finally, Dr. Arthur decided to leave the practice and to open his own practice in the town of Portsmouth with the little money he had saved up.
By the time he rented an apartment that doubled as a doctor’s office, which he furnished with what he referred to as not second-hand but tenth-hand furniture, Dr. Arthur was nearly broke. His only reserve consisted of the 10 gold pieces withheld for his upcoming rent. His doctor’s office was furnished with only a table for surgery and two stools. His trunk served as his dining table and his pantry. For months, he survived on bread, bacon, and tea, and on the rare occasion, a piece of sausage. From the beginning, he received only a few stray patients of the poorest class, most of whom owed money to other doctors. Like one of the doctors he apprenticed for, Dr. Arthur charged no fee for consultations, only for his medicines. At times, Dr. Arthur had to wait to mail a letter because he could not afford a stamp. After several months, Dr. Arthur had built up his practice, but money was still somewhat scarce. Some of his patients were tradespeople who, rather than paying in cash, paid with their trade. For example, Dr. Arthur treated one grocer who suffered from epileptic fits who paid him in butter and tea. Dr. Arthur’s practice was far from being financially successful.
Dr. Arthur was a voracious reader, mainly out of necessity. At the expense of a couple of meals, Dr. Arthur became a member of the local circulating library. While waiting for the occasional poor stray patient to come in need of his services, Dr. Arthur read a plethora of books. Beginning in medical school, Dr. Arthur wrote short stories for extra pocket money. Eventually, the work he did for extra pocket money outshone his work as a medical doctor. It is to our benefit that Dr. Arthur’s practice was not more successful. Had Dr. Arthur been content with his wages as a physician, we may never have heard of his most famous creation, Sherlock Holmes. Dr. Arthur was Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.
Source: Memories and Adventures by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, (Boston: Little, Brown, and Company, 1924), p.57-69, gutenberg.org/cache/epub/66991/pg66991-images.html.
Crowning Glory: The Timeless Appeal of Hats in Fashion
National Hat Day, celebrated every January 15, shines a spotlight on one of the most versatile and enduring accessories in fashion history. From functional headgear to bold fashion statements, hats have played a significant role across cultures and centuries.
“Hats are more than just protection from the elements; they’re an expression of personality and style,” says fashion historian Dr. Elena Rivera. Iconic styles such as fedoras, berets, and baseball caps each carry their own legacy. Notably, the classic Stetson cowboy hat remains a symbol of rugged American individuality.
Modern trends show a resurgence of hats as fashion-forward pieces. Social media influencers have embraced bucket hats and wide-brim fedoras, proving that headwear can be both functional and chic.
Celebrate National Hat Day by trying a new style or researching the fascinating history of this timeless accessory. From the streets of Paris to the ranches of Texas, hats continue to crown our heads with style and substance.
BOM was a sponsor of the Negreet High School Cross Country program. Pictured left to right: BOM’s Twyla Lovelady and Braylee Jo Veuleman.
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The Louisiana Department of Education announced the 2025 Students of the Year Regional Honorees, which included Sabine Parish 8th Grader Taylee Brooke Williamson.
In conjunction with the Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE), the Department recognizes outstanding fifth, eighth, and twelfth-grade students who have demonstrated excellence in leadership, academic performance, achievements, citizenship, and service to the school and community through the Students of the Year program. Regional honorees were selected through public, charter, and nonpublic zone reviews per each BESE region.
From this outstanding group of students, one honoree per BESE region will be named a finalist. Finalists will be announced later in the school year and celebrated at an awards ceremony where the overall honorees, one per grade level, will be named.
The Town of Many is dedicated to ensuring that the community not only thrives today, but also flourishes for generations to come. With this vision in mind, the City of Many has tirelessly tackled challenges to enhance the community and protect its most vital resource: water.
“We want to share an important update that reflects our commitment to the health and sustainability of our beloved town,” said Many Mayor Robert Hable.
Check out the Facebook page “Robert Hable Mayor of Many” for a video about the future of Many Water and the city’s commitment to excellence. Tune in now and stay informed about the positive changes that lie ahead!
The Red River Parish Sheriff’s office recently shared the following press release on its Facebook page.
January 7, 2025 (3.55 p.m.)
*UPDATE: Road Closures & Evacuation near Lake End*
We have just been informed that LA Hwy 174 from Lake End to I-49 will remain closed to thru traffic. All other roads, including LA Hwy 1, have been reopened.
Expand Energy has not released any additional information at this time regarding the incident.
As we receive additional information from Expand Energy and/or the Louisiana State Police HAZMAT unit, we will share it.
January 6, 2025
*Road Closures & Evacuation near Lake End*
Highway 174 from Lake End to I-49 remains closed to through traffic as authorities and Expand Energy respond to an incident involving unexpected pressure at a well site in Red River Parish. Other roads, including LA Hwy 1, have been reopened.
In a statement, Expand Energy explained that the pressure was identified on wells offsetting a company well site. As a precaution, the company has been working with local officials to evacuate residents near the impacted wells and close portions of Highway 174 and Highway 1.
“We are working with local authorities, offset operators, and landowners to address the issue,” the company stated. “We will provide additional information as it becomes available.”
Contact has been made with all residents in the affected area, and accommodations have been provided for those choosing to evacuate.
The Louisiana State Police HAZMAT unit is also involved in assessing the situation.
Current Road Closures:
Highway 1 and 371 Intersection
Highway 174 at I-49
Highway 1 South at Hwy 485
Motorists are advised to use alternate routes while closures remain in effect. Authorities will share updates as more information becomes available.
Dale Skinner was born on the Fourth of July in 1939, and he was a firecracker – or at least a never-ending sparkler — as a coach and principal and any other job he held in the field of education for 51 years.
“Man, he was the best principal Menard ever had,” Menard grad Al Mathews said of a man whose flame finally extinguished on December 15th. During one stretch in his time at Menard, Skinner was not only the principal but the athletics director and the head coach for boys and girls basketball.
Bishop Sam Jacobs hired him to take over as Menard’s principal in June of 1999. He was nearly 60 when he took the job. He had retired as principal at Pleasant Hill in 1996 and the longtime successful basketball coach had been working at the time as a juvenile officer for the Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office.
Even though Skinner wasn’t a Catholic, Bishop Jacobs lured him back into the field of education, and it was like putting a fish back into the water. Jacobs knew enough about Skinner, too, to know he could probably help revive the school, which had morale and discipline problems, and enrollment had shrunk to 385.
Along with hiring Skinner as principal, Menard added the position of president and filled the position with its beloved longtime chemistry teacher, Sister C.C. Vanderlick. The Skinner-Vanderlick leadership team helped Menard increase its enrollment to 550 in the six years Skinner was principal.
In February of ’05, the Diocese did not renew Skinner’s contract as principal, citing a policy of having only Catholics as principals of schools in the Diocese. Recently installed Bishop Ronald Herzog wanted to return to that old policy that Jacobs broke from to hire Skinner, a Baptist.
The man was controversial. But then again, a lot of successful people are “controversial.” Who among America’s Founding Fathers wasn’t controversial? Or the giants of biblical history such as Moses, King David, John the Baptist and even Jesus?
Skinner reminded me some of Norman Dale, the fictional coach from the movie “Hoosiers.” Or the real legendary Hoosiers coach Boby Knight. Both were undeterred by pressure from players’ parents or the press or alumni or wealthy fans.
But they achieved extraordinary success. Skinner coached Florien to a state basketball title in 1969 in only his second season as the head coach, and it was the school’s first state title since 1954.
Rapides hired him in 1970, and he coached the Mustangs, or the “Shetland Ponies,” as they were nicknamed, to the Class A finals in his first year at the school. That team went 29-5 without a starter over 6-foot-2. A Northwestern State grad, Skinner coached the team to within one point of Franklinton in the finals.
His calling card could’ve been “Have Basketball, Will Travel,” as he never settled down for any length of time at one school. He coached at St. Mary’s, Merryville, Athens, Many and DeRidder.
Ah, yes, DeRidder. That’s where he won three straight District 4-4AAAA Coach of the Year honors in 1976, ’77 and ’78, with the help of a fellow named Mike Sanders, a Vidalia native who would go on to stardom at UCLA and in the NBA for 11 seasons with four different teams. In 1977, Skinner’s DeRidder team became the first AAAA school to get 40 victories in a season, finishing 41-1 with a loss in the finals to Archbishop Rummel. In that three-year period, the Dragons went 110-17.
Among other highlights of his administrative career in three different parishes, Skinner was principal at Natchitoches Central for four years and for his professional swan song, he served six years as superintendent of Natchitoches Parish Schools.
The late Rick Huckabay, who credited Skinner with molding him as a successful coach at the high school and college level, and who served as Skinner’s assistant principal at Menard, captured Skinner’s essence in a 1977 interview.
“He expects perfection,” Huckabay said. “He teaches that defense is equally important with offense. Dale makes his players fear him. They are terrified of making a mistake, but at the same time he’s a companion to them and treats everyone the same.”
The road to Skinner’s idea of “perfection” at whatever job he held might have been uncomfortable at times, but he had a knack for making that ride memorable at each turn
I was reviewing stuff. I found this newspaper article written by Paul Harvey in 1964. I wondered if something over sixty years old would hold water today.
“If I were the prince of darkness, I would want to engulf the whole world in darkness.
I’d have a third of its real estate and four-fifths of its population, but I would not be happy until I had seized the ripest apple on the tree — thee.
So, I would set about however necessary to take over the United States.
I’d subvert the churches first, and I would begin with a campaign of whispers.
With the wisdom of a serpent, I would whisper to you as I whispered to Eve: “Do as you please.”
To the young, I would whisper that the Bible is a myth. I would convince the children that man created God instead of the other way around. I’d confide that what’s bad is good and what’s good is square.
And the old, I would teach to pray after me, “Our Father, which art in Washington…”
Then, I’d get organized; I’d educate authors in how to make lurid literature exciting so that anything else would appear dull and uninteresting.
I’d peddle narcotics to whom I could. I’d sell alcohol to ladies and gentlemen of distinction. I’d tranquilize the rest with pills.
If I were the devil, I’d soon have families at war with themselves, churches at war with themselves and nations at war with themselves until each, in its turn, was consumed.
And with promises of higher ratings, I’d have mesmerizing media fanning the flames.
If I were the devil, I would encourage schools to refine young intellect but neglect to discipline emotions. I’d tell teachers to let those students run wild. And before you knew it, you’d have drug-sniffing dogs and metal detectors at every schoolhouse door.
Within a decade, I’d have prisons overflowing and judges promoting pornography. Soon, I would evict God from the courthouse and the schoolhouse and them from the houses of Congress.
In his own churches, I would substitute psychology for religion and deify science. I’d lure priests and pastors into misusing boys and girls and church money.
If I were the devil, I’d take from those who have and give to those who wanted until I had killed the incentive of the ambitious.
What’ll you bet I couldn’t get whole states to promote gambling as the way to get rich?
I’d convince the young that marriage is old-fashioned, that swinging is more fun and that what you see on television is the way to be.
And thus, I could undress you in public and lure you into bed with diseases for which there are no cures.
In other words, if I were the devil, I’d just keep right on doing what he’s doing.”
We are living the results of Paul Harvey’s prophecy, if you will allow the use of that word. I wonder what he would say to us today. Perhaps, I should wonder what Jesus would say.
Exciting developments are underway in Many the Sabine Parish Chamber of Commerce recently announced the opening of its new office location at 825 San Antonio Ave., Suite B. The office also unveiled fresh branding, with newly installed logos adorning the windows.
While the official ribbon-cutting ceremony is scheduled for Wednesday, Jan. 30 at 10 a.m., the Sabine Parish Chamber of Commerce invites the local business community to stop by for coffee ahead of the event. Meet the team, explore the new space, and network with fellow business owners in the Parish.
The Chamber looks forward to welcoming friends, partners, and community members to celebrate this exciting milestone.
Downtown Many will come alive with excitement on Saturday, Feb. 1 as Many Gras 2025 kicks off with a vibrant parade at 6 p.m.
The annual celebration promises an evening of Louisiana culture, food, and music. After the parade, the festivities will continue in the town square with live performances, a variety of food trucks serving local favorites, and a lively atmosphere that captures the spirit of a true “Louisiana Saturday Night.”
Residents and visitors alike are invited to mark their calendars for this unforgettable evening. Don’t miss the chance to experience the energy and charm of Many Gras 2025!
By Steve Graf
Over the last two years, I’ve tried to write articles that I thought would be interesting to read. Most have been stories about my fishing experiences, and a few have been about whatever is on my mind. But for the next three weeks, I’m going to introduce you to the writer who was born in Richmond, Texas, on March 7,1961.
As a child between the ages of 5 to 8 years old, I grew up in the Houston area. We lived in the small town of Rosenberg, Texas, until the age of 8. As you will see, this is a story about a young boy who overcame a lot to get to where he is today. So, pay close attention because this road was filled with a lot of potholes and obstacles that had to be overcome.
To understand my life’s journey, you must understand how it all began. My biological mom and dad divorced in 1960 while she was pregnant with me. My dad was in the military stationed in Germany when they decided to part ways for whatever reason.
While I never got to meet my dad, I’ve heard stories about him from other family members over the years. He had great athletic talent and enjoyed a beer or two while chasing the ladies on Friday and Saturday nights. Ah ha…. Probably the reason they got divorced!
My biological mother was not the mother who raised me. The lady I would eventually call mom was actually my aunt (biological mother’s sister). My bio mother was a beautiful lady who also had an extravert personality and was the life of the party wherever she went.
She lit up a room when she walked in with her smile, charm and beauty. She had a career as a model and traveled frequently while trying to raise two boys: Kenny (my younger stepbrother) and myself. Sadly, she was not a responsible parent as we spent a lot of time with babysitters including families that did not speak much English.
My brother and I were often split up during her trips out of town for days at a time. Sometimes she would leave us two to three days longer than she was supposed to. There were several occasions where the sitters would call the police scared to death that we had been abandoned!
Before my delivery date of March 7th of 1961, my bio mom had another son (Mike) five years before me who she walked away from after the divorce. Mike was raised by our grandparents on our dad’s side. He (who I eventually reunited with in 2016) was a great athlete and was a product of Sam Houston High School and went on to have a successful college football career in the mid 1970’s as a running back for East Texas State (now Texas A&M Commerce).
During my early childhood in Rosenberg, I started the first grade and really struggled due to the lack of guidance from home. My mother, who was never home, remarried to a wife beating cop who I despise to this day. My stepdad could have cared less about his only son Kenny (my stepbrother) or myself.
Several times I witnessed my mother’s beatings…. something a 7-year-old should never have to witness. Kenny and I were pretty much on our own and raising ourselves. Being the big bother and part time caretaker, I literally hid food under my bed to make sure we had something to eat! I made sure we never went without food. According to my aunt (eventual adopted mom), I continued this practice for the first year I lived with her and my uncle as well.
Always looking for our next meal, one thing I became very good at during this time of survival was sneaking into people’s houses and helping myself to whatever food was within reach. That’s right, I was the neighborhood brat who nobody liked. But one thing was clear, there was no one better at sneaking around a house than me.
At no point was I ever seen or caught while navigating through our neighborhood houses on Rosenburg’s Walger street. I never stole anything of value, only food. But had I stayed in this environment, I’m sure I would have ended up in juvenile detention before the age of 10.
Friends were never a part of my early days in Rosenberg, except for maybe one or two, but their parents didn’t like their kids hanging around with me. I never understood why people didn’t like me knocking on their door at 6:00 in the morning wanting little Johnny to come out and play.
Even with all the challenges I faced on a daily basis, there was a day that changed my life forever. It was the day I realized God had blessed me as an athlete and the ability to play baseball. One early spring day I heard they were having baseball tryouts for Little League. With my baseball glove on my handlebars and so excited, I jumped on my bike and rode to the local park where the tryouts were taking place.
After arriving, I jumped off the bike and got in line to take ground balls like everyone else was doing. But there was one thing that got my attention; these guys were a lot bigger than me! But for some odd reason, this did not seem to faze me.
As the coach hit a ground ball my way, I scooped it up and made an impressive hard throw to the coach. Seeing the shock on his face he called me over for a talk. I knew I had made an impression as he asked how old I was. I told him seven going on eight, thinking this would not be a problem. He smiled and said, “Son, you’re going to be a great player one day, but your too young to play Little League at this time.” He told me to come back when I was old enough.
Crushed, disappointed, angry and crying, I got back on my bike and road home upset over how they wouldn’t let me play. I mean I was almost eight years old and just couldn’t understand! Obviously, a seven-year-old child does not have the ability to reason. After all, I knew I was one of the best players on that field that day and couldn’t wait to show all of them what the future held for me!
Unfortunately, none of them ever knew the success that would eventually come my way later in life since I moved from Rosenberg to Mt. Pleasant, Texas, before I could play Little League.
Next week I’ll continue my life’s incredible journey so make sure to follow-up with next week’s article and see just how blessed I have been and how two people would change my life forever.
January Is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month. Cervical cancer is highly preventable and curable if detected and treated early. It is most commonly diagnosed in women between the ages of 35 and 50; however, older women are still at risk. According to the American Cancer Society, more than 20% of cervical cancers are found in women over 65. However, these cancers rarely occur in women who have been getting regular screenings. You can lower your risk for cervical cancer by getting screened regularly, starting at age 21.
Symptoms
Cervical cancer usually develops slowly over time. It its early stages, it usually does not present any symptoms. Rather, symptoms usually begin to appear once the cancer has progressed. It is important to listen to your body and consult your health care professional if you notice a change in your menstrual cycle or experience pelvic pain.
Prevention
One of the best forms of prevention is regular screenings. NRMC OB/GYN Associates encourages women aged 21 and above to get screened. Regular screening tests and pelvic exams are important because many times cervical cancer does not present any symptoms.
Treatment
Different types of treatment options are available for cervical cancer. Before a treatment plan is established, many factors will be considered, such as the cancer stage, family history and patient’s overall health.
NRMC has created a comprehensive cancer care network that includes NRMC OB/GYN Associates board certified physicians and NRMC Cancer Center specialists, along with other cancer care team members, who all work together to provide a precise treatment plan.
For more information on cervical cancer screenings or to schedule an appointment, please call NRMC OB/GYN Associates at 318.214.5773.
For more information on NRMC Cancer Center, please visit our website https://www.nrmchospital.org/clinic/cancer-center/
By Brad Dison
As a teenager, James dreamed of attending the United States Naval Academy. Following high school, James enrolled at Georgia Southwestern College where he studied engineering. The following year, he transferred to the Georgia Institute of Technology and continued working on his engineering degree.
While at Georgia Tech, James enrolled in the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps and was appointed to the Naval Academy. In 1946, he graduated from Georgia Tech. In the following year, James graduated from the Naval Academy and was assigned to the USS Wyoming as an ensign. After two years working on a surface ship, he applied and was accepted for submarine duty. He served as the executive officer, engineering officer, and electronics repair officer on a submarine called SSK-1. When the Navy began the program to create nuclear-powered submarines, James was selected to assist in the design and development of nuclear propulsion plants.
On December 12, 1952, a series of missteps and mechanical failures at the NRX (National Research Experimental) reactor at the Chalk River Laboratories led to Canada’s distinction of hosting the world’s first nuclear meltdown. On that day, the reactor was powered down for an inspection of its cooling system. A worker mistakenly raised three of the control rods out of the water which kept the reactor cool.
He quickly pushed the buttons to lower the rods back down. Lights on the reactor’s control panel showed that the rods had been lowered back down into the water, but the rods had only been partially lowered. In the confusion, another worker raised four more rods from the cooling water. With seven rods out or partially out of the cooling water for one minute and eight seconds, the nuclear reactor surged out of control. In that short time, some of the rods had melted or exploded before operators got the reactor back under control. Over a million gallons of highly radioactive water and debris had spilled into the basement of the building.
About 150 members of the U.S. military helped with the cleanup of the nuclear disaster. 28-year-old James led a group of 12 Navy men who worked on the “header’ which fed the cooling water from the Ottawa River into the reactor. Before entering the contaminated area, James and his men practiced on a mock-up of the nuclear reactor where they tried different dismantling techniques. Based on James’s calculations, the area in which they would be working was so contaminated with radiation that they could only spend 90 seconds on the repair job which they expected to take at least 15 minutes. To solve this dilemma, James decided that each man would go in alone for up to 90 seconds to complete a single specific task. James went in first and completed his task, then the next man completed his task, and the process repeated until the twelve men had finished the job. Although James had a seemingly small job, the removal of a single screw, he and his men helped in the aftermath of the world’s first nuclear reactor accident.
James had no lasting effects from his exposure to radiation and lived to the age of 100. He died this past December 29th. You may not have known of James’s part in the nuclear reactor cleanup, but surely you remember that he was once a peanut farmer from Georgia who became the longest-lived president in the history of the United States. His name was James Earl “Jimmy” Carter.
Sources:
1. “Lieutenant James Earl Carter Jr., USN,” Naval History and Heritage Command, Accessed January 5, 2025, history.navy.mil/browse-by-topic/people/presidents/carter.html.
2. Ian Austen, “Jimmy Carter and Canada’s Worst Nuclear Reactor Accident,” New York Times, January 4, 2025. Accessed January 5, 2025, nytimes.com/2025/01/04/world/canada/jimmy-carter-nuclear-canada-chalk-river.html.
3. “Restoration of the NRX Reactor: The First Meltdown (1959),” What Is Nuclear?, YouTube.com, accessed January 5, 2025, youtu.be/9wLJUZ3Vhao.
4. Nick Touran, “Restoration of the NRX Reactor: The World’s First Nuclear Meltdown,” What Is Nuclear?, whatisnuclear.com/news/2024-11-13-restoration-of-nrx.html.
With temperatures dipping near or below freezing in parts of the state this week, Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry (LDAF) Commissioner Mike Strain, D.V.M., urges livestock and pet owners to take necessary precautions to protect their animals. This is also the time to protect plants, pipes, and, of course, people.
“When we see temperatures start to dip below freezing, it is important to take precautionary measures and to do so safely and correctly. For example, while antifreeze is commonly used, not many people realize the risk it can pose to our pets. Dogs and cats will drink it if it is left out as it tastes sweet; however, it is highly toxic to them. If you drain any of the fluid from your tractor in preparation for the weather, be sure to dispose of it properly. We know how to do these things, but let’s make sure we are doing them the right way,” said Strain.
Here are some cold weather tips for livestock, pet, and plant owners:
Livestock
Owners should check their livestock and look for signs of stress, illness, or injury.
Pay close attention to the young and older animals as they are more susceptible to problems during frigid conditions.
Provide plenty of hay, feed, energy supplements, and water.
Be sure to check water troughs as they can ice over.
If possible, make adequate shelter available. Even a windbreak will minimize exposure to cold winds.
Companion animals
If possible, keep all companion animals indoors. If this is not an option, make sure a dry shelter is available and have warm blankets for your pet.
Provide adequate food and water. Monitor water bowls as they can freeze during cold weather.
Consider a sweater for your short-haired dog.
Outdoor cats searching for warmth will sometimes crawl underneath the hood of a vehicle. Bang on or open the hood of your car so any animal in there trying to stay warm can get out before you crank up that engine. Cats can be injured or even killed when the car is started.
Plants
Move all plants in containers and hanging baskets inside. If this is not possible, group them in a protected area and cover them with plastic.
Larger plants can be covered with fabric or plastic.
Thoroughly water plants if the soil is dry.
Plants growing in the ground should be mulched with dry material such as pine straw and leaves.
“Remember, your mulch should be two to four inches thick. Spreading mulch too thick can cause roots to grow shallow and make them more susceptible to death during extended dry periods. You should also avoid mounding the mulch around the base of the plant. The mulch should extend a couple of inches from the base of the plant and be higher on the outside edges to help insulate the plant as well as hold and distribute water,” said Strain.
