The Rev. William Jackson “Butch” Bruce who lives just past Rocks Creek in Bethany community, near Marthville, had the following remarks to open Marthaville Good Ole Days on Friday night, Sept. 29. Fuzzy Hennigan, the Mayor of Marthaville, said the remarks were so good they should be shared. We agree. Butch’s devotion follows.
The Rev. Butch Bruce
A Chosen People by Butch Bruce
1 Peter 2:9 “But you are not like that, for you are a chosen people. You are royal priests, a holy nation, God’s very own possession. As a result, you can show others the goodness of God, for he called you out of the darkness into his wonderful light.”
This scripture is often taken out of context by those who want to justify God’s blessing on our nation. Most of us believe that this nation only came into the pages of history by the divine providence of God. I want to take this scripture even further out of context this evening and bring its scope down to our community.
“You are a chosen people.”
We are chosen to live in an area where until recently road maintenance has been rare.
We are chosen to live in an area where it is about 25 miles to the nearest Walmart or grocery store.
We are chosen to live in an area where we travel anywhere from 25 to 60 miles to see a doctor.
We are chosen to live in an area where if we go out at night to a restaurant to eat, it is a 25 to 50-mile trip.
We are chosen to live in an area where many must travel a great distance daily to and from our jobs.
But…
We are chosen to live in an area with no drive-by shootings.
We are chosen to live in an area with a low crime rate.
We are chosen to live in communities near our families and friends, many of them lifelong friends.
We are chosen to live in communities where our churches are the heart of our communities.
We are chosen to live in an area where people care and are willing to help each other.
We are chosen to grow up in churches where we were taught right from wrong and what we must do to be a child of God.
We are chosen to attend a school where we were [not only] taught "Readin’, Writin’ and ‘Rithmatic," but also the Golden Rule, Matthew 7:12 - “Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.”
Many times, in the fast-paced world we live in today, we forget that God has blessed us to live in an area of good churches, good people, and a good school. We lose sight of the fact that we are a chosen people!
Tonight, and tomorrow, we will be hosting some people here for the enjoyment of “The Good Ole Days” who have no connection to our community.
We will be hosting people who grew up here and have come home for the “The Good Ole Days.” We are invariably drawn to come back home not because of where it is but because of what it represents. They are here to see and visit old friends and relatives and reminisce about “the good old days” growing up here.
We who live here will be here to enjoy the time of community and friendship with family and friends.
When “The Good Ole Days” ends tomorrow night…
When those not connected with our community leave here, let’s make sure their thoughts are that we are a community of good, decent, and friendly people.
When those who have come home for “The Good Ole Days” leave here, let’s make sure their thoughts are that it was great to be home with friends and family, and how great it was to have grown up here.
When we leave here, those of us who have lived most of our lives here, may we remember the divine providence of God in our lives and that we are “a chosen people” to live in this time in this community!
Saturday, Nov. 18, is Election Day. Do your duty and get out and vote. Polls will be open from 6 a.m. until 8 p.m.
Popular Sabine Parish Sheriff Aaron Mitchell, left, and Chief Deputy Brad Walker, right, are shown with State Senator-Elect Alan Seabaugh, who spoke to the Vultures Club in Many Tuesday, Nov. 8, at noon.
State Rep. Alan Seabaugh, who represents House Dist. 5 and has just been promoted to State Senator from Dist. 31, spoke to the Vultures Club in Many on Tuesday, Nov. 8. He will assume his new position Jan. 18.
He spoke about some of the critical needs in state government that must be addressed, including crime. He proposed a special session as soon as Governor-Elect Jeff Landry, a conservative Republican, and the new Legislature, which will be Republican-controlled in both houses, takes office to tackle the growing problem.
“The Legislature caused some of the problems we now have with crime,” Seabaugh stated. He noted a Violent Crime Task Force was approved last session and has been studying why crime is up and what can be done about it.
Another problem that must be tackled is insurance rates he said, stating, “We are less focused on this, and there are a lot of different opinions on why we have such high insurance rates.”
Continuing, Rep. Seabaugh stated, “Louisiana is at the bottom of everything. We have horrible roads. We have an out-migration problem because our tax structure is antiquated. We must bring taxes down to help businesses. Our tax structure is not conducive to bringing in people or businesses. We must start by lowering income taxes. We probably can’t eliminate it, but we can reduce it.”
Rep. Seabaugh stated, “Louisiana has been backward for 100 years, ever since the days of Gov. Huey P. Long. It is time we take the power out of Baton Rouge and place it locally in the hands of the people.”
He noted that he and the new U.S. Speaker of the House Mike Johnson of Shreveport have been friends for 20 years and were seatmates in the State Legislature. He pointed out that not only is the Speaker from Shreveport, but the Majority Leader in Congress is also from Louisiana.
Another situation he addressed was the current problem at Northwestern State University navigating the issues it has recently faced. He alluded that it’s going to take change to get the mess cleaned up, adding, “Nothing sweeps like a new broom.”
Sheriff Mitchell announces Sabine arrests in recent thefts
Sheriff Aaron Mitchell reports Christopher J. Garner, age 25, and Destiny McCrea, age 23, both of Many were arrested for Misdemeanor Theft Monday afternoon, Nov. 6.
The arrest came after Garner and McCrea were observed on video surveillance the weekend of Nov. 3 leaving a Dollar General store without paying for numerous items.
On the following Monday morning, photos of the two were shared via the Sabine Parish Sheriff App and Facebook page and within an hour, they were identified.
The couple was also suspected of taking an item without paying from BJ's Grocery on Oct. 26.
Garner and McCrea were interviewed, and both admitted to stealing items from Dollar General stores on Hwy. 191, in the Village of Florien, in the Town of Many, as well as from BJ's Grocery, west of Many.
In addition, McCrea admitted to stealing a rifle from a residence in Florien. Theft of a firearm (felony) charges are pending in that case.
More charges are expected in the thefts from the Dollar General stores in Florien and Many.
Sheriff Mitchell thanks the public from their help identifying Garner and McCrea and commends his Detectives who investigated these cases.
(Special thanks to Sabine Det. D. W. Seegers for supplying the above information.)
HAPPENING THIS WEEK: Get into the holiday spirit as the official “Grinchmas in Many” Christmas artwork for the Town of Many is unveiled at the CDC Building, next door to the Many Post Office (490 Church St.) on Thursday, Nov. 16 at 6 p.m. The 3rd Annual Christmas Poster Unveiling will feature the winning artwork that captured the essence of this year’s Christmas theme revealed for all to admire and enjoy with food, festivities and a live auction!
Watch for lots of other Christmas activities upcoming including:
Many Christmas Tree Lighting – Tuesday, Nov. 28 at 6 p.m. at City Hall, 965 San Antonio Ave.
Moonlight Madness – Thursday, Nov. 30, from 5-8 p.m in downtown Many and surrounding businesses.
Many Christmas Parade – Saturday, Dec. 9 at 3 p.m; Fairgrounds festival 4-7 p.m.; and Christmas Fireworks at 7 p.m.
Willie Stewart Family & Friends Christmas – Saturday, Dec. 16 at 7 p.m. at the Sabine Theater (Many Community Center) in downtown Many.
Shown at the Autograph Party for Nancy Jones held on Nov. 11 in Many are, from left, Yours Truly, Jake Hebert, Laurie Gentry, Tedd Dumas, Judge Verity Gentry, honoree Nancy Jones, Sheriff Aaron Mitchell, Sen. Louie Bernard, Many Mayor Robert Hable and Sabine Clerk of Court Shelly Salter. Ms. Jones is holding a poster showing a George Jones performance in Marthaville, LA back in 1979. The poster was presented to Ms. Jones at the party by Judge Gentry.
An overflowing crowd came to Many Saturday morning, Nov. 11, for an Autograph Party for Nancy Jones, widow of Country music legend George Jones. Many Mayor Robert Hable said it was the biggest crowd he’d ever seen at City Hall. At times, a long line spilled onto the sidewalk outside.
Nancy’s new book, titled “Playin’ Possum, My Memories of George Jones,” tells the ups and downs of their 30-year marriage and how fortitude and faith got them through.
People from across Louisiana attended, and one couple drove from Hot Springs, AR, specifically for the event. Another couple there who now lives in Palm Springs, CA, recalled their friendship with Ms. Jones when they all lived in Woodville, TX years ago.
Lots of Louisiana cousins, former friends and co-workers came by to buy a book, take photos and say hello.
On the short program, which began at 10 a.m. were Sen. Louie Bernard, 11th Judicial District Judge Verity Gentry, Sabine Parish Sheriff Aaron Mitchell and Mayor of Many Robert Hable.
Tedd Dumas of BDC Radio emceed the ceremony, and BDC’s Jake Hebert interviewed Ms. Jones as part of a live broadcast. My wife Laurie and I were honored to organize and host the party.
We thank all who attended and all the generous sponsors who made it happen.
During the dedication of the new Veterans Memorial at St. John's Catholic Church Cemetery in Many, the U.S. Flag was raised by members of the Patriot Guard.
A memorial honoring all veterans buried at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Many was dedicated at 5 p.m. on Veterans Day, Nov. 11.
The memorial was a project of Phil Troha Jr., whose father, Philip Sr., is a veteran who is buried in the cemetery.
The flag, which was flown over the nation’s Capital, was obtained by Pete Abington and raised by members of the Patriot Guard.
Participating on the program were Mary Beth Tarver, Pastor Timothy Hurd, Major Gen. Winn Burkett and Philip Troha Jr.
A 10 ft. by 30 ft. electronic billboard is being installed along Hwy. 171 beside McDonalds in Many. It will have a display on both sides and is being installed by Henry Schuler.
Sabine Sheriff’s Dept. Felony Narcotic, Firearm October Arrests number 15
Sabine Sheriff Aaron Mitchell recently reported felony narcotic and firearm arrests for the month of October.
Approximately 3.9 pounds of suspected marijuana, 1.6 ounces of methamphetamine, 124 Hydrocodone and Oxycodone pills, various drug paraphernalia, several firearms, and almost $2,000 cash was seized during last month’s arrests and investigations.
Arrested were:
Christopher James Knippers, age 38, of Fisher - Warrant for two counts of Distribution of schedule II (Meth).
Bond was set at $15,000, and he remains in jail.
Rufus Jasen McEvers, age 32, of Many - Possession with intent to distribute schedule I (Marijuana), Possession with intent to distribute schedule II (Meth), Possession with intent to distribute schedule II (Hydrocodone), Possession with intent to distribute schedule II (Lortab), Possession of firearm while in possession of CDS, Possession of drug paraphernalia and Warrant for 2-counts of Distribution of schedule II (Meth).
Total bond was set at $100,000, and he remains in jail.
Aaron Jermaine Brown, age 45, of Florien - Warrant for three counts of Distribution of schedule II (Meth).
Bond was set at $15,000, and he bonded.
Austin Bernard Lynch, age 51, of Zwolle - Warrant for 2-counts of Distribution of schedule II (Meth) and• Warrant for Distribution of schedule II (Meth).
Total bond was set at $30,000, and he remains in jail.
Harvey Eugene York Jr., age 48, of Zwolle - Possession of Marijuana, Possession of schedule II (Meth) and Vehicle in unsafe condition.
Bond was set at $2,500, and he bonded.
Darla Kay Lewing, age 56, of Florien - Warrant for three counts of distribution of schedule II (Meth).
Bond was set at $20,000, and she remains in jail.
Brandon James Corley, age 24, of Many - Conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine (U.S. District Court, Eastern District of Texas federal indictment), FTA for Evading arrest (Texas) and five Warrants for FTA in court for numerous charges.
No bonds have been set as of press deadline, and he remains incarcerated in Bossier Parish.
Jason Jelvonne Calhoun, age 39, of Zwolle - Warrant for Distribution of schedule II (Meth), Warrant for State probation/parole violation, three Warrants for FTA in court for several charges and Resisting an officer.
No bonds set as of press deadline.
Jessica Renee Slusser, age 40, of Robeline - Possession of schedule II (Meth), Improper lane usage, and Vehicle in unsafe condition.
Bond was set at $3,000, and she bonded.
Bryce Allan Sepulvado, age 20, of Zwolle - Illegal carrying of weapons, Warrant for Home invasion and Second-degree battery.
Total bond was set at $125,000, and he remains in jail.
James William Spikes, age 26, of Zwolle - Warrant for: Conspiracy to distribute schedule II (Meth), Principle to distribute schedule II (Meth), Possession of firearm in presence of CDS and Possession of firearm by person convicted of certain felonies.
Bond was set at $100,000, and he remains in jail.
Joshua Waylon Rivers, age 31, of Noble - Warrant for Distribution of schedule II (Meth), Possession of drug paraphernalia and Entry after being forbidden.
Total bond was set at $51,092, and he remains in jail.
Morris W. Davenport Jr., age 66, of Converse – Three counts of Distribution of Schedule II (Methamphetamine).
Bond was set at $45,000, and he remains in jail.
Demarcitana S. McNeil, age 24, of Shreveport - Possession with intent to distribute schedule I (Marijuana), Possession with Intent to distribute schedule II (Oxycodone), Possession of drug paraphernalia, Aggravated flight from an officer, Resisting an officer by flight, Speeding, Driver must be licensed and No proof of insurance.
In addition, a Caddo Parish warrant for: Possession with intent to distribute schedule I and two counts of Illegal use of weapons during crime of violence.
Bond was set at $50,000 for Sabine Parish charges, and he remains in jail.
Chelsea Caitlin Buster, age 35, of Zwolle - Possession with intent to distribute schedule II (Meth), Possession of drug paraphernalia and Improper lane usage.
Bond was set at $20,000, and she remains in jail.
(Thank you to Sabine Det. D. W. Seegers for the above report.)
WE GET LETTERS. This one came from lifelong friend and faithful Observations reader Dr. Ronald Byrd of South Boston, VA.
“Robert, I got that packet of Sabine Index papers today and was interested to think about some possibilities, one of which would be to take advantage of the name recognition that you've provided through your Observations and run for office in Sabine Parish if we could identify a position that would allow me to work from home. At my age, term limits would not be an issue; I couldn't be one of those who held office for 20 years. I don't think there would be many of the Many basketball players left who might hold it against me that we split eight games with them back in 1949-50. Maybe next year, at breakfast, we could hash out some ideas among those in attendance. LOL. Or we could just drink our coffee and shoot the bull! Pass along a ‘hello’ to Laurie. Thanks for the papers. Ronny”
Sabine Parish Schools score among Top 23% of schools statewide
Sabine Superintendent of Schools Shane Wright
The Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE) announced the release of the 2023 performance scores for all Louisiana school districts. The results highlight an increase in Sabine's overall performance score, demonstrating a positive trend over the past year. The ranking places Sabine at #16 out of 71 school districts.
The Sabine School District’s 2023 performance score was 86.9, marking a notable improvement from the pre-pandemic score of 85.1. Additionally, 90% of Sabine Parish Schools performed at or above pre-pandemic levels. The achievement is a testament to the dedication and hard work of educators, students, parents, and the community.
Highlights from the 2023 school performance scores are as follows:
• Converse High School demonstrated the most significant SPS increase (5.7.)
• Other notable SPS increases: Zwolle High School (3.5), Florien High School
(3.4), Many Junior High School (2.7), Ebarb High School (1.9) and Zwolle
Elementary School (1.7.)
• All SPSB Schools maintained their SPS Letter Grades.
• Schools receiving "A" letter grades: Many High School - 99.1, Zwolle High School - 97.5 and Negreet High School - 95.0.
In addition to increased performance scores, multiple Sabine Parish schools received accolades from the LDOE for being a Top Gains School or Opportunity Honorees. Top Gains Schools for Sabine are Florien High School, Many Elementary, Many High School, Negreet High School, and Zwolle High School.
The Opportunity Honorees for Sabine are Many High School, Negreet High School and Zwolle High School.
Supt. of Schools Shane Wright expressed his satisfaction with the results, acknowledging the collective efforts that have contributed to this success. He reports the district remains committed to providing a high-quality education for every student, and these results serve as a foundation for continued improvement and progress.
His office stated on Monday, “As we move forward, Sabine Parish Schools remain focused on pursuing academic excellence, ensuring that our students receive the education they deserve despite the challenges faced in recent years. We extend our gratitude to everyone who has played a role in achieving this milestone and look forward to our district's continued success and growth.”
Seen Along the Way
About America
So let me get this straight:
We’re a nation that accepts pornography but hates abuse.
We’re a nation that doesn’t believe in gender but fights for women’s rights.
We’re a nation that believes no child should be left behind, but we have aborted over 60 million.
We’re a nation where heroes have died so our flag could fly over a free nation, but we then give the title “heroes” to wealthy athletes who kneel in disrespect.
We’re a nation where political parties ignore the corruption of their own party while condemning the corruption of the other.
We’re a nation of laws, yet we’re a nation where the law only applies if you’re not politically powerful.
We’re a nation that has “In God We Trust” printed on its currency but we’re a nation where people get sued if they make His name known in public.
We’re the “greatest” nation on earth yet we consume more antidepressants than any other nation in the world.
We’re a nation that pledges we are “one,” yet we are split by aggressive division.
…and we wonder why there is so much confusion.
-30-
Comments