How many of you prayed that the New Orleans Saints would win theSuper Bowl. I did too, but I imagine there were just as many Coltfans praying.

I heard the best explanation about this from Coach Dale Watts,whose Brookhaven Academy boys had just won their unprecedentedsixth State Basketball tournament. He was being interviewed andasked about the victory.

He said, “Well, God does not bestow a victory on any one team. Youhave talent and you put that talent to good use, you don’t wasteit. I did not shoot a single basket, steal a ball or shoot a freethrow. This victory belongs to these boys and their hard work andcarrying out the plan and using their leadership skills.”

He then commented about the parable of the talents. Nothing comeseasy without hard work and these young men are examples of this.Congratulations to the BA boys and girls on their outstanding yearin basketball. Ole Brook is proud of you! That is two statechampionships for Brookhaven Academy in one school year!

Congratulations to David and Teena Morgan. They will becomegrandparents in October when their daughter, Daila, is expectingher first child. Congratulations to former residents, David andLynda Derrick, who are excited about their second grandchild.

The benefit for Mimi Stegall last weekend was a success andStephanie Reynaud wanted to thank everyone who participated in anyway.

My son, Tate just returned from his first trip to New York City. Hejoined his wife Kelly who was in the Big Apple for job training.Tate remarked that he didn’t realize that Central Park would bethat large in such a metropolitan area. He was also able to visitGround Zero while in New York.

Birthday and anniversary greetings go out to Stella Lins, KathySmith, Chad Walker, C. J. Bridwell, Roberto Lins, Lane Easley,Brock Wells, Stephanie Lincoln, Stephanie Reynaud, Bonnie Turner,Renee ‘ Reed, Brenda Webber, Misty Morrison, Frances Querns,Lavelle White, Bro. Mack Massey, Keesha Hall, Guy Buford, KatelynMorrison, Alan Melancon, Scotty White, Letha Presley and EdMontgomery.

Those celebrating anniversaries include Neil and Smythe Haley,Kendal and Stephanie Reynaud and Scotty and Brandy White