Harold Keller / L’Observateur / May 9, 2000

In the late 1950s, 1960s and early 1970s, the town of Garyville was the envy of many river parish communities because of their commitment and hard work to provide recreation for the young people. However, after thatperiod, something happened to a once-proud people who worked together and gathered at the ballpark as a family to enjoy the national pastime – baseball.

Many people contributed to the success that Garyville enjoyed at that time.

Just to name a few (realizing that some people whose names are not mentioned will be offended) are Mr. Ned Duhe, the late “Sugar Boy” Monicaand the late Pete Falgoust. They gave of themselves unselfishly to maketheir community a good place to raise kids.

As exciting as those times were, the past 20 years have seen a generation of young people who benefited from those successful years, refusing to give back to their community what others gave to them. Call it what you want. Icall it selfishness. It was a mentality of not what I can do for you, but ratherwhat can you do for me? Because of that selfish spirit over the years, Garyville died, and many young people suffered.

This past weekend, I attended a youth baseball tournament in Garyville. Itwas refreshing to see, perhaps, a return of the unselfish spirit that many people had years ago. The ballpark was in great shape and the weather wasperfect. The people working in the concession stands, and those in charge ofthe tournament, worked together in unity and enthusiasm, giving to the community in order to provide recreation for their children. I was not onlyimpressed but also refreshed to see the rekindling of a giving spirit in a once-proud community.

Being curious, I asked what group was responsible for putting this successful tournament together and was told it was an organization called GYO (Garyville Youth Organization), with Bret Acosta as president. Amy Plaisance, one ofthe many forces behind the group, is vice-president, Kim Louque is the secretary, and the treasurer is Lori Schexnayder. I complimented them onthe upkeep of the grounds. They told me that the credit goes to R.J. “Snake”Tregre. “He takes personal pride in making these parks look good,” they said.They all agreed that he is a committee of one.

I understand that GYO has about 30-plus members. Evidently, they worktogether, realizing that in unity there is strength.

The happiest people at the park were the people working, proving that the secret of living is giving.

Another thing I noticed – my buddy, Ned Duhe, was there. He had hisgrandson, Taylor, playing on a team and his son, Petrer, was coaching. Myfriends, “Sugar Boy” Monica and Pete Falgoust are deceased, but “Sugar Boy’s” son, Matt, who inherited the same quiet, compassionate spirit that his dad had in dealing with kids, was coaching the Garyville team that won the 11-12 championship and Pete’s grandson, Jade, one of my special people, played on the team.

I was glad to be there, because any time there is a rebirth of something good, it’s an exciting time.

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