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Following four playoff appearances and three Southland championships, Nicholls State University football head coach Tim Rebowe has announced his retirement after 10 years at the helm of the Colonels.

Defensive coordinator Tommy Rybacki, who served on Rebowe's staff for all 10 seasons, will be named the 11th head coach in program history, Nicholls Vice President for Athletics Jonathan Terrell announced.

"I cannot begin to tell you how thankful I am to have been the head coach at Nicholls State University," Rebowe said. "My family and I are so very grateful to have served this school, community, and surrounding area for the past 10 years. It truly has been an honor and privilege to have been in this position of leadership. To all the players, past and present, coaches, staff and administration — THANK YOU. Dr. Clune and JT, your support has been incredible. The journey could not have been a success without you. It is time to turn the page and see what the next chapter of life will be."

Rebowe leaves Nicholls as the all-time leader in victories with 57. In conference play, the Colonels posted a 48-30 mark in the Southland, highlighted by championships in 2018, '19, and '23. In addition to an FBS win over Kansas in 2018, Rebowe wrapped up his career with a 55-39 record against FCS competition.

Rebowe led the Colonels to one of the most impressive turnarounds in the FCS in the 2010s. From 2011-14, Nicholls won a total of six games, with four being non-Division I, and a 0-12 season in '14 capped the tenure. Rebowe was introduced as head coach a day after the '14 finale, which was the program's largest margin of defeat in Southland play in team history. The loss also extended the Colonels' losing streak to 18 games, but Rebowe led his squad to a win over HCU in Year 1 to end the streak at 23.

After guiding the Colonels to a winning conference record in 2016 at 5-4, the first since 2005, Nicholls earned an at-large berth in the 2017 FCS playoffs with an 8-3 campaign. The Colonels then finished the regular season in '18 with another 8-3 record, which included a win over Power 5 Kansas and the program's second SLC title. The next season ended with back-to-back Southland championships and a third straight playoff appearance.

In his ninth season in 2023, Rebowe led Nicholls to the program's first outright Southland Conference title and third overall during his tenure. The Colonels won all but one league game by double figures, outscoring opponents 33.2 points per game to 16.0 ppg. Rebowe was named Southland Coach of the Year and was also recognized as a finalist for the Eddie Robinson Award, given to the top coach in the FCS.

"I am incredibly proud of my best friend, mentor, and brother, Tim Rebowe, as he steps away from the game after 38 remarkable years," Jonathan Terrell said. "Tim earned the opportunity to retire on his own terms, and while it was a shock when he told me he thought it was time, I deeply respect his decision. I encouraged him to take a couple of weeks to reflect, but he was resolute—his mind was made up."

"Tim has been more than just the head coach of Colonel Football for the past 10 years; he's been a true leader and a cornerstone of this program. His impact extends far beyond the field, touching every corner of our university community. While we'll miss seeing him on the sidelines, I know he'll continue to be an incredible ambassador for Nicholls State University, staying right here in Thibodaux as one of our biggest fans. We wish Tim nothing but the best as he transitions into this next chapter, and we are deeply grateful for all he's done to elevate our football program and our University. Thank you, Coach Rebowe—you've left a legacy that will inspire generations to come."

"People often comment to me how great of a football coach Tim Rebowe is," said Dr. Jay Clue, Nicholls State University President. "My reply is, 'he's a great football coach, but he's an even better human being.' He recognizes that his job is not just about winning football games—although he's won a lot of football games—but in developing young men who will become husbands, fathers, business and community leaders one day. And his impact in the university, local community and region is immeasurable."

"Rare is the situation in which the head football coach has to convince the Athletic Director and President that now is the right time for him to retire. It's difficult for me to envision Colonel Football without Tim and Kim Rebowe. The saving grace in all this is that they're staying in the community and staying connected to Nicholls."

Rybacki takes over the program after leading the defense to a record-breaking campaign. Nicholls finished the regular season ranked 12th in total defense while setting a new school single-season record in rushing yards allowed with 83.9, which ranked fourth in the nation. The defense also had 29 turnovers gained, third best in the FCS, helped by 19 interceptions which ranked third as well.

"Nicholls State University and the Thibodaux community is a special place," Rybacki said. "I am humbled and extremely grateful to Dr. Clune and Jonathan Terrell for their trust in me to lead this program. Under the direction of Coach Rebowe, Nicholls Football has established a proud tradition of success and I look forward to leading this program to its next championship."

"I cannot think of a person who is more prepared and qualified to lead Nicholls Football into the future. Tommy is so knowledgeable in all facets of the game," Rebowe said. "His dedication and workmanship will be unmatched as he leads young men into the next phase of the program."

"Two years ago, Coach Tim Rebowe and I had a candid conversation about his plans for the future," Jonathan Terrell said. "At that time, he shared his intention to retire within the next five years. During those discussions, we talked about finding someone who not only understands but embodies the culture, values, and identity that have made Nicholls a special place. We both agreed there was one clear choice: Tommy Rybacki. Though this decision was never made public, Coach Rybacki turned down multiple opportunities over the years to remain committed to this program, knowing he was positioned to lead Nicholls when Coach Rebowe decided to retire. That time has come, and today, we are thrilled to announce Tommy Rybacki as the new head coach of Nicholls Football."

"Coach Rybacki has spent the past 10 years as our defensive coordinator, where his energy, intelligence, and dedication to the game have been instrumental in our success. He is a student of the game, a leader of men, and a perfect fit to continue and elevate the winning culture here at Nicholls. Tommy, along with his wife Meredith and their two daughters, Celia and Corinne, are elated to continue their journey with the Nicholls family. Please join me in welcoming Coach Rybacki as the next head coach of the Nicholls Colonels!"

"We are blessed to have Coach Tommy Rybacki waiting in the wings," added Dr. Clune. "I credit Coach Tim Rebowe for his development and Athletic Director Jonathan Terrell for recognizing his potential. We could search the country and not find a better fit for Colonel football and Nicholls State University than Coach Rybacki. I am confident that he will build on the culture of excellence that Coach Tim Rebowe started here."

(Editor’s note: William Gant submitted this reflection on his discoveries at a historic Morgan City site.)
The allure of American history, especially that of the Civil War, draws countless seekers to dig through layers of soil and time to uncover artifacts, clues and memories of the past.
My recent expedition to the Albert Cotten Manor in Morgan City — a site that predates the house’s construction and brims with stories yet untold — proved to be a breakthrough in more ways than one. This journey not only uncovered rare Civil War relics but also rekindled a deeply personal connection to history, offering a therapeutic path for a disabled peacetime veteran like myself.
Armed with metal-detecting equipment, I ventured onto the manor grounds, prepared for the possibility of finding small mementos of the past. However, what I discovered was far beyond my expectations and hinted at the mystery of the Ghost of Morgan City, a spectral figure known in local legend but never truly explained.
The first significant find was a Confederate States of America belt plate — a rare, ornate piece worth nearly $5,000. As my metal detector buzzed over the area, I uncovered this beautifully crafted piece, likely belonging to a Confederate soldier.
Holding it in my hand, I felt the energy of its previous owner, a man caught up in one of the most divisive periods of American history. The discovery was surreal; it was like bridging two centuries in a single moment.
Nearby, I also unearthed an eerie, time-worn padlock attached to a rusted chain, a tie-down stake, and, to my astonishment, scattered human bones, which I believe could belong to the very figure haunting Morgan City. Each piece added to the macabre mystery, weaving a story of confinement and unrest, an unsettling hint that the soul behind the ghost may have been shackled, held against their will, and possibly left to an unknown fate on these very grounds.
As an investigator, this was a moment of triumph, but as a disabled veteran using metal detecting as a form of therapy, it was so much more — a testament to resilience, patience, and the healing power of meaningful discovery.
The search at Albert Cotten Manor was not my first expedition, yet it felt like a culmination of years spent honing my skills and building trust with local property owners. Each piece of permission I’ve gained has been a gift, an opportunity to delve deeper into Louisiana’s rich heritage.
The patience and trust of these landowners have opened doors not just to historical treasures but to personal growth, helping me process experiences of my own. As I continue on this journey, I thank them wholeheartedly for their generosity and hope more owners will consider opening their land for research and exploration.
The discoveries made at the manor ground, especially the Confederate artifacts, are reminders of a complicated past that still reverberates through American society today.
The Civil War was a time of fierce division, born out of conflicting ideologies on race, governance and freedom. These issues left deep scars and influenced political attitudes that continue to shape America. The racism underpinning the Confederacy has evolved, but remnants of it persist in discussions on civil rights, economic policies and social justice issues that remain unresolved. By unearthing these relics, we remember that these historical struggles aren’t just relics of the past; they are threads in the fabric of current political discourse.
As I reflect on these profound discoveries and the joy of a successful search, I find myself inspired to continue. Morgan City and St. Mary Parish are treasure troves of history and mystery, welcoming curious explorers to uncover stories of old. I encourage everyone, whether veterans, historians or hobbyists, to come and immerse themselves in these historically rich lands.
However, the journey requires support. As a self-funded enthusiast, my work is often limited by resources. Additional funding would allow for further research, equipment maintenance, and the possibility of securing new permissions for exploration. There’s potential to establish a network of private property owners willing to grant access, allowing us to locate and catalog more historical items. If anyone is interested in supporting these efforts or owns property with possible historical significance, I would love to collaborate and continue uncovering pieces of America’s past.
The mystery of the Ghost of Morgan City, brought to life by the remains I uncovered, is but one chapter in the rich tapestry of this region. With continued support, I hope to solve more mysteries, foster understanding, and deepen the connection between the present and the past. Let us honor those who came before, not only by preserving their artifacts but by learning from the lessons they left us and moving forward in unity.

PATTERSON — The Patterson City Council is closing in on passage of a 2024-25 budget after a year of belt-tightening and work to put city accounts in order.
At a special meeting Tuesday, Mayor Rodney Grogan said he will call another special meeting for Dec. 17, giving council members most of a month to examine a draft budget and develop suggestions before the budget is formally introduced.
If the process goes according to plan, the new budget could come up for a passage vote in early January.
City finances have been a struggle since then-City Accountant Reggie Weary said the city government had been hit with unexpected expenses related to capital projects. Weary took a private sector job. Former city employee Pam Washington was called back to work on the budget, and Monica Mabile was hired.
Both received the thanks of council members Tuesday for their work over the last year.
Grogan had a couple of suggestions of his own: passing on to city residents costs related to street lights and increased tipping fees at the parish landfill. Together, the moves could save the city government $166,000.
Eliminating the city’s senior feeding program is also being considered.
Councilman R. DeMale Bowden made an impassioned call for tighter oversight of overtime and an improved organizational chart.
The city’s Community Center is also being looked at as a source of both revenue and cost-cutting.
The 2023-24 budget ended in June, and the law gives the city a six-month grace period that it will exceed if the new budget is enacted in early January.
“If they want to write us up for three days,” Washington told the council, “so be it.”

Terrebonne General Health System had three nurses named to the 2024 “Great 100 Nurses.”
Jacque Blanchard, RN, Nicole LeCompte, RN, and Nichol Ledet, RN, were honored at the Annual Great 100 Nurses Celebration of Louisiana held at The Pontchartrain Center.
The Great 100 Nurses Foundation was founded in New Orleans and since then has honored thousands of nurses across Louisiana. Founded in 1986, the Great 100 Nurses of Louisiana Foundation recognizes outstanding nursing accomplishments and successes. The honorees are selected based on their concern for humanity, their contributions to the profession of Nursing, and their mentoring of others.
Jacque Blanchard, RN, is the Cath Lab Director and has been with Terrebonne General for 33 years. Nicole LeCompte, RN, is the Director of Anesthesia Services and has been with Terrebonne General for 25 years. Nichol Ledet, RN, is an Epic Specialist in the Information Technology Applications department and has been with Terrebonne General for 29 years.
“Terrebonne General is incredibly proud to have three nurses being recognized again as part of this year’s Great 100 Nurses,” said Phyllis Peoples, president and CEO.
“We are delighted that their hard work has been recognized with this esteemed nursing honor.”