There are many words that come to mind when I recall events and circumstances in my life, but the one word that always rises to the surface is ‘fortunate.’ I am fortunate to have grown up in a very special community in South Louisiana, fortunate to be born into the Achord family having Arthur and Edna Achord as my parents, and Sheila and Sally as my sisters. I am fortunate to have lived in an age of innocence, discovery, challenges, old fashioned fun–surrounded by family and friends who made my life special. I was fortunate to grow up in a Christian community where encouragement was spoken, discipline was shown, laughter encouraged, and of course, love freely given.
My name is Steve and as of May 3, 2024, I’m writing a new chapter in my life. After 48 consecutive years of having a paid position in a variety of fields and careers, retirement will be my full-time gig. The process of downsizing, putting my house on the market and searching for a new place to call home in Louisiana has begun. I’m excited about meeting new friends and having new adventures. More updates to come as my wife, Nancy, and I embark on this journey and create a new life in Louisiana.
Pinball & Preachers is an eclectic work that stems from the events of growing up in Patterson, LA during the late 1960’s, 70’s, and early 80’s. As this work in progress evolves, I look forward to sharing not only colorful stories of my time in bayou country but also works of fiction, poetry, and of course simple stories from a simple man who loves to share stories, laughter, and fun with friends and family.
Pinball & Preachers 
Hi Steve, I remember your Dad well as I was also brought up in Patterson, La. He was such a wonderful person. I will never forget him as long as I live. I lost a brother in Vietnam in 1969, and your father was THE ONLY member of the clergy in Patterson that came to my home to offer condolences and any help that his congregation could give. I still think about that from time to time.
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Gloria, Thank you so much for writing and telling me this story. I’m not at all surprised to hear about Daddy as that was the kind of wonderful person he was his whole life. It also encourages when my stories put a smile on another person’s face. I’m so happy you wrote.
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Hi Steve! Text me. We have to talk before we k ave the island tomorrow.
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913-222-9794
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Hello Steve.
I love your stories! I lived in several different Louisiana and Texas towns; however, Patterson always comes to mind as a place of simple/laid back times. Daddy taking me/brother to fish/crab off the levee, shopping at Jennings Grocery Store, attending Patterson High School, riding my bicycle to various friends homes… knowing I was okay since everyone in Patterson knew each other back then, attending St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, the snow ball stand… Good times in Patterson. I attended PHS in ’66-’67 and ’70, 71, and the beginning of 10th grade ’72. My Daddy worked for Shell Oil Company and transferred a lot obviously. I ended up graduating high school in East Texas. Long story short, in 2002, I reconnected with a PHS classmate Terry Cope. Keep the stories churning Steve! Gwen Cope
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Tell Terry I said hello. I saw him last near Bunkie Louisiana a while back. A long while.
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Very impressive!
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Originally raised in Berwick I married a Patterson man and have lived in Patterson for 40 years. It’s a lovely quaint little town with a beautiful history. I love reading your stories and can relate to so much. All your stories bring fond memories and smiles follow. Thank you! Keep writing!
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I was just reviewing some old web pages and saw this. I never tire of reading stories of Patterson. Even if I have read them before.
I pray all is well with you Steve.
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Dear Steve, I was born and raised in Moran City , LA and just stumbled on your writings by happy accident. Your descriptions of the area bring back such happy memories for me. I’m living in Columbus OH now but reading your stories made me feel like I’d gone home. My Dad is 88yo and still living in Morgan City, where he was also born and raised, and ran a beer distributorship, Streva Distributing. He’s an avid reader but doesn’t do so on-line. Are any of your writings in print for purchase? Your stories would be such a meaningful gift for him! Thanks so much for sharing your talents! Devita Streva
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