Sherlock Breaux in the Creaux's nest

REMEMBERING PEARL HARBOR, DEC. 7, 1943

I was a youngster when Pearl Harbor was attacked by the Japanese. I recall sitting next to the old radio with family and neighbors listening to President Franklin D. Roosevelt address the nation about the attack. My aunt was saying her Rosary. She was praying for her son who was at Pearl Harbor. It turned out he had been severely injured when a lifeboat crashed down on him when his ship was hit. He recovered after a long hospital stay only to be killed later in a farming accident. My thoughts also turn to my old friend, Cedric Stout, a Pearl Harbor survivor, who was on the Utah. (Cedric passed away Jan. 17, 2024, at age 103.) We got to visit with him and wife Cherry often. I wonder how she is doing I love those old vets from the Greatest Generation. Too many are leaving us way too fast.*****Jim Molley, Sr., 94, died Nov. 24. 2014. Jim went into the Army Air Corps in 1942 and was stationed at Oahu, Hawaii during the Pearl Harbor attack. I had known the entire Molley family since the late 1940’s going back to Jim’s dad Joe, Sr. and his mother Victoria. I was often a guest at the old Molley home later occupied by Jim and Gloria and brother Joe “Fats” and wife Mildred. The Molleys were a colorful family. In my head I have a lot of great stories. Jim was the quiet, industrious one, Joe Sr. and Joe Jr. were the flashy ones. Jim’s passing marked the end of a special era. A pioneer Italian family who lived many stories. Looking back is like going to a movie for me.

IT WOULD HAVE BEEN WRONG NOT TO PARDON HUNTER

For over two years the Primetime gang on Fox News tried Hunter Biden over and over every night, most of their pitch hogwash and often rebuffed. President Trump even contacted the President of Ukraine and threatened to withhold money if he didn’t come up with some dirt on Hunter and his dad. The phone call is locked up in a vault. Now is a good time to make it public. In Trump’s first administration, half of his cabinet was indicted or went to prison, the other half cast him as being a buffoon, idiotic or just plain crazy. He pardoned many, including his daughter’s father-in-law, who will be Ambassador to France. He has also promised to pardon all the January 6 actors who invaded the Capital. Trump himself will not have to serve a day in jail, voters pardoned him by voting for him. Some now are blaming President Joe Biden for pardoning his only son Hunter. Why Biden might have decided to tarnish his legacy and renege on his vows not to intervene could be Trump’s repeated vows for revenge against his political enemies and his immediate moves to put political loyalists like Kash Patel in charge of federal law enforcement. People who would have few qualms about pursuing additional charges against his son for alleged crimes ranging from illegal foreign lobbying to sex trafficking plus the treatment they would have allowed while he was in prison. Former AG Eric Holder, who claimed that no federal prosecutor “would have charged this case given the underlying facts,” and former DOJ official Anthony Coley, who said, “Biden was right to do it. Trump is putting in place the pieces to weaponize the DOJ. Why would Biden leave his only surviving son exposed in that way?” If anyone who voted for Trump and claims Biden was wrong, are lying when they say they would not pardon their son under the same conditions.

TURNING BACK THE HANDS OF TIME

10 Years Ago-2014

Cosby Stock Tumbles. Regardless of what happens next in the Bill Cosby allegations his body of work over the years is tainted. The backlash due to the resurgence of public accusations by multiple women that Cosby drugged and sexually assaulted them, going back decades, will continue to grow. Cosby, through his lawyers, denied the allegations. Cosby saying “he wouldn’t answer to innuendoes” will start to ring hollow. The accusations against an American comedy icon is shocking and sad. Cosby is facing numerous cancellations. One of his last half-dozen shows was here in Orange. Bill and his wife Camille have donated millions to schools and hospitals over the years. Society’s evolving notions about sexual assault is heavy baggage for Cosby that just won’t wash away. His reputation is long gone never to return and that’s a shame. Bill Cosby and his wife Camille live near Philadelphia. The comedian, now 84, is legally blind and hopes to revamp his career, but maintains his innocence. His estimated worth is $400 million.***** The Atlanta Falcons defeated the Cardinals 29-18 Sunday. Bridge City’s Matt Bryant accounted for 17 of the points, with five field goals and two extra points. He

didn’t miss on any.***** This week, in 1927, Ford Motor Co. unveiled its Model “A” automobile that replaced its Model “T”. I learned to drive at the wheel of a Model T 20 years later so it’s always been special to me.*****Sen. Robert Nichols and his assistants spent Monday night in Orange. They attended a Lion’s Club meeting, had breakfast with Orange County mayors, attended a Rotary Club meeting and stopped by The Record office for a visit and update on new legislation and the new Lt. Governor. It has been a long time since a senator, other than Nichols, spent even one day in Orange, much less two.***** Sylvia Dickey Smith is having a book signing for her new book “Original Cyn” at Farmers Mercantile.***Kathy Mattea will be at the Lutcher Theater this week.*****I hear Commissioner Owen Burton has had some ticker problems and was in the hospital. He didn’t stay long but Nelda is not letting him kick his heels much.*****We were sorry to hear Micaela, Judge Thibodeaux’s better half, is also dealing with heart problems. The Judge’s retirement shindig that was scheduled for the 19th has been postponed until Jan. 15 to give “Mica” a chance to recover so she can join in the festivities.***** The Atlanta Falcons defeated the Cardinals 29- 18 Sunday. Bridge City’s Matt Bryant accounted for 17 of the points, with five field goals and two extra points. He didn’t miss on any.

20 Years Ago-2004

Judge Joe Parkhurst and Judge Pete Runnels are happy campers after their school, Sam Houston, came from behind with seconds to go beating Eastern Washington 35-34. PNG’s, Dustin Long, threw a pass to Jason Matthews to tie the game. The extra point won the game as time ran out. *****On Dec. 8, 72 years ago, Rene’ Hanks was born. That was also the day Prohibition ended and alcohol sales became legal.*****Kenneth Smith and Danny Brack, from K-Dan’s, caters the large Bobby Cormier Oilfield Supply and Double AA Glass annual Christmas party feed. Over 300 were fed. Bobby said, “You know it’s a good catering when Joe Burke shows up.” (Editor’s note: Joe and Mr. Paul are no longer with us.”)*****GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN: Former Bridge City resident Roy Gene Rogers, named for movie actors Roy Rogers and Gene Autry, died at age 64, in Plano, on Dec. 2. While living and working as a policeman in Bridge City Roy did a lot of youth work.*** Russell “Rusty” Buntyn, 52, of Bridge City, died Dec. 5 in an auto accident in San Augustine. He was preceded in death by his brother Jimmy. He is survived by parents Leon and Billie Sue Tiller, son Leon, Uncle Ricky Etheridge and Jamie Broussard.

45 Years Ago-1979

Larry Kennan head football coach at Lamar produces a winning season.***** Denise Guyote recently completed the Air Force’s technical training. She is a graduate of Keesler Air Force Base. She served her basic training at Lackland Air Force Base. She is assigned to Hill Air Force Base in Utah. She is a graduate of Bridge City High School.*****Doug Ardoin is recovering from two bypass heart surgery at St. Elizabeth. (Editor’s note: Doug was later killed in an auto accident.)*****The West Orange-Stark Mustangs of Coach Steve McCarty dropped a hard fought 12-7 bi-district game to Baytown Lee Saturday in the Astrodome, ending their hopes for a state championship. They ended the season 8-2-1. Nothing to be ashamed of. *****Margaret and Tony Giarratano celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. Tony took her for quite a ride over the years. *****Ed Lovelace, formerly “Mr. Orange,” with KOGT is now the owner of two radio stations, KIBLAM and KCW-FM in Beeville. (Editor’s note: Those stations were very successful and made Ed and Joan very rich but they lost everything after an employee accidentally killed a lady in a company car. Her family was awarded $6 million. They even took Ed’s ring off his finger.)

50 Years Ago-1974

Elaine Meyers is the attractive young lady in Gunn’s Studio ad. *****Lawyer Louis Dugas, our friend and former state representative, district attorney. and judge, will celebrate a birthday Dec. 12. He is now in his mid-40’s. (Editor’s note: Today that would be mid-90’s.)*****Bicentennial commissioner Roy Wingate makes announcements. The DAR Chapter has adopted a project to locate the grave of Revolutionary Army war veteran James Adams, who is reportedly buried in Orange County. The Heritage category is under the supervision of Ken Armstrong, Mrs. Fred Trimble and Jane Dorman. Marlin Shelton, Larry Gunter and Jules David will be in charge of Horizon activities.*****Elaine Hollier of Bridge City has been selected as a member of the U.S. Olympic Women’s Handball squad.*****West Orange basketball team members are John James, Alvin Anderson, Bohn Dorman, Don Sargent and Andre Robertson. The coach is Jim Weaver.

A LITTLE ABOUT THE NATIVES

Everyone’s friend, former State representative, local lawyer and rancher Wayne Peveto, has been in St. Elizabeth hospital and came home this week. I recall when Wayne passed his Tax Bill. Representative Lloyd Dogget, who is now a United States congressman brought the El Paso newspaper that had a big headline asking “What is a Peveto?” During those days Buddy Temple served in the House and also owned the Veranda where the Capital crowd gathered while in Austin. Wayne stayed with an appellate courts judge. Those were fun days. Wayne accomplished a lot. By the way, Micky Littton was his right hand in Austin. She and Karl Rove served at the same time. He became Bush’s brain. We wish Wayne the best in his recovery.*****Our buddy, the Mayor of Starks, Rene’ Hanks turned 90 on Dec. 5. He married pretty Lucy many years ago. She celebrates a week later on Dec. 12 but is much younger. Someone needs to give these fine folks a party.*****Our friends Tommy and Sue Simar, celebrate 36 years of marriage on Dec. 4. He picked her up in Yankee country for a visit and she never left. Best wishes for good health and some good years.*****Our buddy here at The Record, Margaret Toal, had eye surgery. Her daughter Kate came down from New York to help and spend time at Thanksgiving. Margaret had the blinders taken off Monday and should be back to feature writing.*****Speaking of Thanksgiving, the gathering this year was at Jim Sharon and Cassie Bearden’s place. The youngest kids Bodie and Krewe’s three year old pet Lama wanted to meet their famous granddad, so it just barged in to everyone’s surprise. By the way, Sharon’s oldest son Tyler turned 53 this week. It doesn’t seem that long ago that Sharon’s boys were on the LCM baseball field.

A FEW HAPPENINGS

The holiday season is in full swing and Lady Whistlebreaux is busy trying to keep up with all the activities. There's no way anyone could complain that nothing goes on in Orange County. Thanksgiving brought lots of travel, families, and a traditional Longhorn-Aggie game. It's for certain the retired Judge Pat Clark was celebrating the UT win. Orange City Councilor Brad Childs isn't as happy. He and wife Terri went back to his alma mater to see the big game in College Station. They also made it to the Texas Renaissance Festival.*****Paula and Randy Ragsdale gathered for the feast day at the McClelland family's place on Cow Creek.*****Debbie Hughes not only celebrated a birthday, she got a long visit from daughter Dr. Kayla Cheek, husband, Nick Cheek, and their little ones Kenzie and Ian.*****Patricia Kemp traveled to Columbia, Missouri, to be with family, Eric Ellison went up in the mountains to Gatlinburg, Tennessee, but made it back home in time for the feast.*****Dana and Tommy Mann took in the fun of the Renaissance Festival.*****Carly Thibodeaux went to Galveston for the weekend with the trip including a bike ride on the seawall.*****Tommy and Trobie Thompson vacationed in Breckinridge, Colorado. Also there were Amber and Grant Craft.*****Steve and Gail Maddox stayed in Texas for their latest long trip. All the way to the Big Bend and Fort Davis, where they partied with the stars at the famous observatory.*****Brandi Griggs and crew headed for sites in San Antonio.*****Ida Schossow went to Houston to see the classic Nutcracker ballet.

Lots of people were having Thanksgiving pie and birthday cake this past week. *****Over the weekend, our gal Penny LeLeux went to Canton’s First Monday to do a little Christmas shopping. It was a girl’s trip that has been going on for five years with mostly teachers and retired teachers from Bridge City and Orange. This was Penny’s second year to join the group. Her niece-in-law, Tara Vidrine, organizes the trip each year. They rent an air b&b that is filled with bunkbeds that will sleep 20. There were 11 ladies in attendance this year. They shopped til they dropped and snapped up lots of bargains.*****The annual Service League Toy Coffee is Thursday. Bring an unwrapped toy or cash donation to tour the home at 803 6th Street in Orange. They always do an amazing job and all the toys and cash donations benefit the Salvation Army in Orange to bring a more joyful Christmas to Orange County families in need.*****Orange Retired Teacher and school personnel to meet Dec. 9 at 10:30 a.m. at Wesley United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall located a 401 N. 37th St. for their Christmas program. Sandra Dickey will give a special reading of “Cajun Night Before Christmas.” They will also be collection canned goods for The Women’s Care Center in Vidor. Bring your favorite dish for a covered dish luncheon.*****Although Judge Pat Clark and Attorney H.D. Pate were loyal country music fans, Pate was really the expert. They used to discuss different artists, but Hank Williams was always the Judge’s favorite. H.D. is gone now and despite all our many fights, I really do miss him.*****Special thanks to Van Choate for our Thanksgiving turkey, arranged and cooked by Robert’s Meat Market and Girl Friday Tina.

BREAUX BIRTHDAYS THIS WEEK

Folks celebrating birthdays in the next few days. Dec. 4: Dana Simmons, Gwen Tallant, Stephanie Kreger.*****Dec. 5: Rene Hanks turns 90. Someone need to give the Mayor of Starks a party. Belinda Force, Rory Piccone, Shea Bolton, Steve Hightower.*****Dec. 6: Woody Carter, Cheryl Jones, Barbara Cartwright, Lois Cornwell, Richard Briggs, Emily Mangham, Michelle Potter.*****Dec. 7: Pearl Harbor Day. Celebrating are Jim Keith, Tracey Gilliam, Buddy Sheppard, Randy Philpott.*****Dec. 8: Channing Larkin, C.R. Dick Davis, Samantha Peveto.*****Dec. 9: Barry McKenzie, Bobby Couthran, Elissa Kern, Jay Fuss, Sharon Johnson.*****Dec. 10: David Claybar, Michelle Watson, Shelly Motts, Bonnie Hopperton, Sean Ureta, Monica Placette, Cindy Briggs, Karri Piccone.*****Others blowing out candles on a cake included Barry Burton, Karen Colburn, Jasmine Brown, Chay King, Mason Grizzaffi, Steve Johnson, Ricky Jacobs, Dan Perrine, Judge Courtney Burch-Arkeen, Betty Smith Vail (we're hoping she feels better), Gerald Burleigh, Billy Jones, Ben Wernig, Shonnalee Converse, Teresa Martin, Ken Sury, Linda Lee Melton, Ricky Blagburn, Carrie Woliver, and Matt Purgahn.*****Happy Anniversary to Tommy and Sue Simar who will be married 36 years on Dec. 4.***Keith and Cinda Perry celebrated another wedding anniversary passing the half century mark.***Trey and Amie Smith had their eighth anniversary.

To publish birthdays or anniversaries free of charge call 409-886-7183 or email [email protected].

CAJUN STORY OF THE WEEK

Joe Comeaux, him, he was attempting to build a patio for the first time. He buy hisself 100 of dem cement block. Den he lay dem out in a pattern. Mais, den he find out de space he fix up was too small. So Comeaux him, stack dem block by his house and clean up some more space.

Da nex’ day, Joe, him, he put da cement block back down befor’ he notice the ground was unlevel. So he buy him a load of sand and stack dem block against his house again. Fo’ tree days Comeaux move dem block.

Tee Man Breaux watch dis all dat time and he wonder, “Me, I’m gonna aks dat crazy Cajun abo’t dat.“

De nex’ day he lean over da fence and say, “Hey, Joe, you gonna put you patio away every night hanh?”

C’EST TOUT

UNDER TRUMP ACA’S FUTURE UNCERTAIN

In July 2017, Sen. John McCain, the maverick Republican from Arizona, was undergoing treatment for brain cancer. It would take his life in little more than a year. He had returned to Washington, D.C. for the Senate debate over legislation supported by President Donald Trump and congressional Republicans that would repeal the ACA. McCain’s dramatic, early morning thumbs-down sent the legislation to a 51-49 defeat and saved the Affordable Care Act, often called the ACA or Obamacare. Signed into law in 2010 by President Barack Obama, the ACA is the most consequential health reform policy in the United States since the creation of Medicare and Medicaid in 1965. People who would like to choose a real and affordable health care plan have options, thanks to the ACA. Visit Health-Care.gov or call 1-800-318-2596 for enrollment information. Were it not for the thumbs-down of an American hero, millions of Americans would not have the opportunity to sign up for health coverage next year through the Affordable Care-Act.*****Thanks for your time. Please shop our family of advertisers. Take care and God bless.