louisiana road trips september 2011 issue

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Get ready because here it comes - the Fall Festival Season! If you enjoy outdoor celebrations, you'll really enjoy this issue. While we're waiting on cooler temps to find us, peruse these pages as you plan some fall road trips. Get to know the terrain and traditions of different areas of the state as you savor authentic Louisiana music, food, and fun.

TRANSCRIPT

Page 1: Louisiana Road Trips September 2011 Issue
Page 2: Louisiana Road Trips September 2011 Issue

Louisiana Road Trips – 2 – www.laroadtrips.com

Page 3: Louisiana Road Trips September 2011 Issue

Louisiana Road Trips – 3 – www.laroadtrips.com

PUBLISHERLRT Publications

______________________

EDITORIAL DIRECTORMona L. Hayden

[email protected](318) 547-1221

OUR GUARDIAN ANGELDebbie Hamilton Pope

June 14, 1952-August 24, 2008

SALESMona L. Hayden

(318) 547-1221Sunny Meriwether

(318) 547-8126Cheryl Yates

(318) 235-6493

Websitewww.laroadtrips.com

Louisiana Road Trips magazine is publishedmonthly to promote, inform, and entertain theresidents of Louisiana. It is distributed FREE;however, home delivery is available. This magazinewill reach approximately 56,000 individuals.

Submission of articles and photos are alwayswelcome but may be limited to availability of spaceand edited for content.

Copyright 2011 with all rights reserved. Reproductionof any material appearing within this publication isprohibited without written permission of the Publishers.The opinions expressed in Louisiana Road Tripsmagazine are those of the authors or columnists anddo not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher,nor do they constitute an endorsement of products orservices herein. “Louisiana Road Trips” magazineretains the right to refuse any advertisement.

P. O. Box 2452West Monroe, LA 71294

(318) 547-1221

ROAD TRIPS

www.facebook.com/louisianaroadtripswww.twitter.com/louisianaroadtrips

Let's Go Fishing!!Grand Isle Ladies Fishing Rodeo

The 5th Annual Grand Isle LadiesFishing Rodeo will be held October 7 & 8,2011 at Bridgeside Marina at the foot of theGrand Isle bridge overlooking the CheniereCaminada Pass. Bridegside is a full servicemarina and all activities will take place atthat site. Entry fee is $20 per person andincludes a rodeo cap, fishing the event, doorprizes, and dinner and dance on Saturdaynight. Tickets are available at and the GrandIsle Port Commission located at 2757 Hwy1, between the butterfly dome and electronicoffshore weather condition sign.

Last year's rodeo produced winnersin every category with happy anglers anda donation to the American CancerSociety of $5,000. These funds are usedlocally to support cancer patients withpharmacy cards, fuel cards, and wigsthrough several local hospitals and theHouma office of the American CancerSociety. The rodeo is also dedicated toraising awareness and support for breastcancer patients. We look forward, withsupport from our fishing friends, to match

or increase our donation to the AmericanCancer Society this year.

The Grand Isle Ladies Fishing RodeoCommittee is encouraging Team Fishing, bygetting a group of friends together to “fishthe ditches” or charter a boat to “fish theback bay.” Design a team outfit and enter towin the “Fishing Fashion Award” as a team.Register your team name and members tobe eligible for the award at the Rodeo ticketbooth during the rodeo or at the TouristCenter prior to the rodeo. Contestants mustbe present and wearing the team outfit andparticipate in the fishing fashion showSaturday evening at 6pm.

Again this year, a children's divisionwill be open to girls from 6 to 15 years old.A separate Board will post the winners andall prevailing rules will apply to thechildren's division.

To celebrate our 5th year, a rodeoposter will be available Saturday andthrough advance sales. The poster wascreated by Kathy Schoor and $5 from eachposter sold will go to American Cancer.

Come ondown to theisland for goodfishing, goodfriends and goodfun!

Sponsored by theGrand IsleCommunityDevelopmentTeam, Inc. a501c3 not forprofit group ofproactivecommunitybased volunteers.All donations aretax deductible tothe extent of thelaw. TaxID#020678895.

September 11, 2001We Will Always Remember

Page 4: Louisiana Road Trips September 2011 Issue

ROAD TRIPS"Celebrating country living and city happenings!"

s e p t e m b e r c o n t e n t sARTS & CRAFTSMEN16 Life Is a Song – Jimmy Carr’s Lyrical

Review by Mona L.Hayden

BOOK REVIEW27 Cows to Christians

BUSINESS REVIEW22 Should Your Cat Reproduce?

28 A Chiropractor Can Be A Football Player’sBest Friend!

29 Northeast Louisiana Virtual Clinic

DELTA OUTDOORS15 In the Crosshairs by Sonny Harrington

Sighting in Your Rifle

24 Planning a Vacation is a Lot of Work by Johnny Wink

30 My Favorite Fishing Hole by Joe JoslinFishing in a Drought

FESTIVALS &ENTERTAINMENT12 Louisiana Art & Folk Festival, Columbia

14 Celebrating Cajun Roots by Cheré Coen

17 Northeast Louisiana Celtic Festival

18 Springhill Lumberjack Festival

28 Minden to Celebrate the Beginning of“The Fifth Season, Fasching”

HISTORICAL6 A Treasure in Our Own Backyard: ULM

Library Special Collections by Lee Estes

9 The Lamy Family in Early Ouachita ParishHistory by Lora Peppers

13 Louisiana in the Civil War – September1861: The Louisiana Tigers by Terry L. Jones

23 Beds & Beignets by Mary WhiteA City’s Civil War Past

Talkin’It Up!

Get ready because here itcomes - the Fall Festival Season! Ifyou enjoy outdoor celebrations,you'll reallyenjoy this issue.While we'rewaiting oncooler temps tofind us, perusethese pages asyou plan somefall road trips.Get to know the terrain andtraditions of different areas of thestate as you savor authenticLouisiana music, food, and fun.

Thanks for all the greatcomments about last month'sAlligator Hunting issue. Itobviously caused quite a stir basedon your response! This month we'refeaturing the Ladies Fishing Rodeoin Grand Isle, benefiting theAmerican Cancer Society. It's evenmore fun to fish when you'rehelping a great cause so you justmight want to wet a line with thisgroup of fish wranglers.

We're pleased to introduce twonew contributors - Robert Lemoineand Sonny Harrington. Robert'scolumn is inspirational andmotivational while Sonny's column,In The Crosshairs, is all about guns,hunting, and the great outdoors. Take a peep at our new website -www.laroadtrips.com. A work inprogress, this format allows us tokeep your favorite articles postedeven after that issue has beenupdated. Let us know what youthink by posting your comments onthe site. With your feedback, wecan continue bringing you the bestcontent of most any publication.

This month we recognize the10th anniversary of 9-11-01. Justknow that WE WILL ALWAYSREMEMBER.

Keep in touch.

MonaMona L. Hayden, [email protected](318) 547-1221

HUMOR5 Runnin’ the Roads by Barbara Sharik

Taking a Grammatically Correct Road TripAin’t Easy

17 All Things Southern by Shellie TomlinsonOut of Gas

20 A Life of Trial…and Error by Dennis Stewart

I Was Raised in North Louisiana But IThink I Turned Out OK

MONTHLY TIDBITS4 Talkin’ It Up!

8 Going Native by Larry BrockNature’s Time to Sow and Scatter

8 Backtalk9 Louisiana Lagniappe – Remember When

16 Louisiana Lagniappe Answers

19 Miss-Lou Celebrates America Area PaysTribute to 9/11 Victims

25 September Calendar of Events

27 Man Down! by Robert Lemoine

RECIPES26 Recipes by Stacy Thornton

ROAD TRIPS3 Let’s Go Fishing!7 Travel Adventure by Dianne Newcomer

Tulipmania!

10 Hit the Road – by Deborah BurstSacred Treasures

11-12 Branson – Where Music ResonatesThrough the Ozarks by Mona L. Hayden

19 New Orleans Plantation Country Has a Storyto Tell. So Will You! by Jay A. Tusa

20 Beauting the Heat in Shreveport by Sue Stella

21 On the Scene – by Deborah BurstNew Orleans From a Local’s Viewpoint

Louisiana Road Trips – 4 – www.laroadtrips.com

Page 5: Louisiana Road Trips September 2011 Issue

Louisiana Road Trips – 5 – www.laroadtrips.com

Takeroad trip.Of course,

I mean take a road trip, but also,take the words road and trip.Besides road, there's rode, as in,they rode down the road in theircar while taking a road trip.Pronounced the same but spelleddifferently and sort of related, butnot necessarily so.Confused yet? Aren'tthe little kiddies gladthey're back in schoolso they can sort all this out? Nowif we grownups can master it,we'll be good to go.

Trip has several meaningsalthough just one spelling. Forexample, you can trip as in fallflat, or you can take a road trip asin traveling, which is what weadvocate in this magazine bydoing our best to point out whereto go and what to do when youget there.

Still, the English languagecan be confusing. Take lay and lie.Hens lay, dogs don't. Providedyou're grammatically correct, they

lie down. I look out and see seven of them in theyard trying to endure the heat. Everyone appears tobe laying down because I've gone through most mylife saying everybody's laying down. To lay is to putsomething in place. Okay, I could argue when I laydown, I'm putting myself in place. Using thechildren's prayer, “Now I lay me down to sleep” asan example I ask if lay is wrong, how would itsound if we prayed “Now I lie myself down tosleep.” I'm thinking this is a 'Gotcha' because if to

repose is to lie, here's the most famousprayer using, “I lay me down.” However,it's not incorrect. It should be, but it's not.

Note, to lay is to put something inplace. In this case, the child praying is indeed layingitself down; putting something in place, him orherself. Lie is often used with “down”. Now here'swhere I think my English teacher lost me. To lie ispresent. To lay is past. Lying is a present participlewhile lain is a past participle. I think I was absentthe day Teach covered participles.

Most confusing is that the present tense of tolay is the same as the past tense of to lie. However, ifmisery loves company, it should be noted that firston the list of Top Ten Most Confusing Things Aboutthe English Language is the lie/lay thing.

What can I say? I'm not alone in my ignorance.That doesn't make it better except that ignoranceloves company. Wait, that's not how it goes. It'smisery. Well, ignorance makes me miserable. In myupcoming book “BooCat: Dancing Naked in the Rain,”BooCat duels with this and she decides she likes laybetter than lie even if it's notgrammatically correct. I don'tblame her. I've been laying downfor years until I realized I shouldbe lying down instead. Saying itcorrectly doesn't change myprone position. I was still down.

Whoops! Prone. There'sanother one. Did you knowprone means facedown andsupine means to lie on yourspine? My dogs pretty muchagree with BooCat. How manydogs respond to “Lie”? Nope,you want a dog down, youorder, “Lay” and Fido knows.

You suppose there are otherwords? Going to bed, napping,resting, sleeping. Omit lie and layaltogether. Instead of trying tofigure out if we're laying

something down or we're lying down, let's say I'msetting this article on the floor. Of course, if we dothat we'll have to determine if it's setting or sitting.Likely, it will be as confusing as lay and lie.

Tell you what; let's just drop it on the floor --right before we drop ourselves into bed, okay? Ithink drop is safe. Unless the antecedent pastadjectivized possessive present participle verb isdrip and then I don't know what to tell you.

Barbara Sharik makes her home at Wit's End in Jones,Louisiana with a couple old dogs, young dogs and severalstupid dogs, a cat, a talking cockatiel and a white dove. She'sactive in civic affairs, serves as a Justice of the Peace, aNotary Public, is the Clerk for the Village of Bonita and acolumnist for the Bastrop Daily Enterprise. She has authoredseveral books. You can e-mail Barbara [email protected].

Hens lay,dogs don't.

Taking a Grammatically CorrectRoad Trip Ain't Easy

RUNNIN’ THE ROADS By Barbara Sharik

Page 6: Louisiana Road Trips September 2011 Issue

A Treasure in Our Own Backyard:ULM Library Special CollectionsBy Lee Estes

On the fifth floorof the University ofLouisiana Monroe

library is an often overlooked treasurepertaining to anything and everything aboutNortheast Louisiana - ULM SpecialCollections. I am fascinated by the variety ofmaterial therein. Of course, my primaryinterest is in photography and the history thatmedium provides, but these collections gowell beyond that. In order to better acquaintyou with this priceless resource, I askedSpecial Collections Curator, Cyndy Robertson,to provide a paragraph describing the majoritems she maintains. Her response is thefollowing:

"The University of Louisiana at MonroeLibrary Special Collections Unit was establishedfor the purpose of compilation and preservation ofhistoric materials which are pertinent to thecultural development of north Louisiana. Materialspertaining to the eleven parishes in the northeastcorner are collected, preserved and made accessibleto researchers. Historic University materials arehoused in the archives section while books,manuscripts, microfilm and photographs arehoused in Special Collections. Three collectionshave been placed on the Louisiana Digital Library,available through LOUIS, the Louisiana LibraryNetwork at www.louis.org. These collections are:the Edna "Tiny" Tarbutton Collection, acollection oforiginalscorebooksand othermaterialthatdocumentthe careerof thelegendary

women's basketball coach; the Griffin FloodPhotograph Collection, a collection of images ofthe 1932 Ouachita River flood by J.E. Griffin; andthe Northeast Louisiana Historic ImagesCollection, a collection of images from the elevenparish area. The largest collections in the unit arethe political papers collections of Otto E.Passman, long-time Congressman from the 5thCongressional District, and James A. Noe,businessman, television and radio pioneer,legislator and governor. Both these collections haveindexes that may be viewed online.

Significant book collections are the ThomasGilhula Collection, relating to the Civil War andthe Ben Bateman Collection of military history.Photographic collections include the GriffinCollection, given to the library by DurwoodGriffin, photographic images within theMcMurran and Gunby Collections and theHighway 80 in Print Collection by Lee Estesmade available in part through a LouisianaEndowment for the Humanities grant."

Accompanying this article are somephotographs by J. E. Griffin made during theearly 20th century and one of mine from theHighway 80 collection. They illustrate thesophistication enjoyed by Monroe during themid 1920's and inundation by the disastrousOuachita River flood in 1932.

ULM Special Collections is usually openon weekdays but I recommend calling prior toa visit and outlining your interests to be sureMs. Robertson will be on hand to welcomeand assist you. The tel. number is 318 3421054.

Lee Estes, a Kentucky native, migrated to Louisiana in1956 with his wife, Lottie. He worked in aviation thenwith A&LM Railway. He began making photographs inEurope after WWII and ranked among the leadingmonochrome exhibition photographers in the U.S.

Restroom entry, abandoned Exxon Station, Delhi,LA (2007)

Milk distribution in Monroe, LA during 1932 flood.(Feb. 5, 1932)

Residents of Monroe and West Monroe forced fromtheir homes during 1932 flood.

Louisiana Road Trips – 6 – www.la-road-trips.com

Photos courtesy of ULM Special Collection and Griffin Studios.

Pho

to b

y Le

e E

stes

Page 7: Louisiana Road Trips September 2011 Issue

Louisiana Road Trips – 7 – www.laroadtrips.com

Tulipmania!prices. Like our housing bubble, the tulip bubblealso burst! Dealers went bankrupt. Many peoplelost their life savings as the value fell. Thesecond problem was even more devastating.Unbeknownst to the breeders, the unique vividlines and stripes of different colors turned out tobe a genetic virus. How ironic - the people incharge of creating the market had infected thebulb with the virus that led to its extinction!

Amazing how an obsession with tulipsblossomed into a financial disaster. How manytimes must history repeat itself before weunderstand? Luckily, the Dutch finally figured itout and did not throw the baby out with the

bathwater. Flower power iscurrently alive and well in theNetherlands and next spring,the world is invited to seethem during FLORIADE 2012.

Held every 10 years, theFLORIADE is a horticulture

masterpiece attended by over 30 million peoplein 2002, running from April until October inHolland. It features 100+ exhibitors from dozensof countries together creating a 165 acre parkwhere Mother Nature, at her very best, is ondisplay with the world's most exquisite flowers,plants, trees, fruits and vegetables in creativedisplays. This event will exceed your wildestimagination. As your travel advisor, I have someexceptional ideas for you to be totallyenraptured in tulip mania!

Escorted Tour: Netherlands, Belgium, andParis - 11 days from $2699. Experiencethe color and glory of spring leisurelythrough the Netherlands, Belgium andFrance. Visit blooming fields and visitcultural events and sustainablearchitectural exhibits at the FloriadeHorticultural Exposition. Float in thecanals of Amsterdam. See artisanscutting diamonds in the diamondcapital of the world. Travel back tomedieval times during a Brugessightseeing tour. Walk the boulevards ofParis, visit the home of Claude Monet,cruise the Seine River and enjoy a

farewell dinner on the Eiffel Tower.Departure dates are: April 9, 16, 23, 30, andMay 7

River Cruise: Gems of Germany,Belgium & the Netherlands- 8 days from$2599 --April 15/July 16 and Aug. 12priced from $2849. Sail through threecountries, visiting some of the mostexciting cities in Western Europe: Brussels,Antwerp, Maastricht, home of the Floriade2012, and Cologne. All meals,accommodations and sightseeing included.It's the best of old and new Europe. (Save$300/couple by booking by Nov. 30th)

River Cruise: Amsterdam to Antwerp--Tulips and Windmills - 10 days from $3299--April 10. Everything about the Netherlandsand Belgium-colorful canals, whimsicalwindmills, vibrant tulips, rich maritimehistory, the art of Rubens, Rembrandt, andVan Gogh-are yours to experience on thisperfectly paced springtime cruise, includingFloriade. (Save $400/couple when you bookby November 30)

These trips are ideal for gardengroups or flower lovers wanting to enjoy aworld class horticulture event, combiningthe history, art, and flowers of Europe! Callme at Monroe Travel Service - 323-3465 -and I'll send you a free brochure. It's goingto be special, so why not get caught up in“tulipmania” this spring? Take ahorticulture journey of a lifetime!

TRAVEL ADVENTURE By Dianne Newcomer

The stock marketis on anotherscreaming roller coastride. Investors shoutat us to buy nowwhile the prices arelow. Others suggest

it's time to move to gold or something safe.TIME magazine's front cover this month touts“The End of Europe”, reckless spending beingthe culprit. I have no idea where all this isgoing but it reminds me of a story I heard ona trip to Amsterdam.

You see, long before anyone heard ofCisco Systems, Qualcomm, Nokia,Google, or other stocks, there wasa tulip named Semper Augustus.With blood-red steaks against awhite background, this tulip wasextraordinary and known not onlyfor her beauty but her rarity. Thecreation of master breeding, this exquisiteflower became the holy grail of all tulip bulbsamong the rich in the 17th century whensomeone paid 10,000 guilders for a singlebulb - the price of a house on a canal inAmsterdam. Suddenly, tulipmania began.

A garden filled with brilliantly coloredtulips became a status symbol. The rich andfamous around the world paid dearly for thisprecious commodity. To meet demand,breeders started experimenting andproducing new varieties. Single colored tulipsneeded lines, stripes and flames to make themmore valuable. The breeders wanted to keepthe market hungry with fresh merchandise,and it worked. Tulips soon became a covetedluxury item, prices rose constantly, andgrowers increased supply. It was madness.Buying and selling bulbs became a quickfortune. Merchants and farmers mortgagedanything to raise cash to begin tulip trading.

In 1636, any tulip could be sold for a niceprofit. In 1637, everything changed. Ineveryone's haste to get rich quick, a couplemajor problems were overlooked. The firstproblem was over saturation, leading to lower

Flower power iscurrently aliveand well in the

Netherlands.

Page 8: Louisiana Road Trips September 2011 Issue

Louisiana Road Trips – 8 – www.laroadtrips.com

The cycle ofseasonalprogression isinexorable. January,February, June andJuly … and then the

dog days of August - droning cicadas, cornharvest and school bells ringing. Squirrelslittered the ground with cuttings underpecan, cypress and pine trees. Ripe drupeshung on buck vines, wild grapes andVirginia creepers. Mockingbirds feasted onpokeberries, cardinals on elderberries, androbins on white dogwooddrupes.

And now September andthe evidence of summer'smaturity abounds - Labor Day,the Fall Equinox, that brightHarvest Moon shining up in thesky. Tropical storms are brewing,doves are flocking and days are noticeablyshorter. What are those strangely eerievibratos and distant k-k-ka-ing staccatos,those barely glimpsed forest shadows? Raincrows, aka yellow-billed cuckoos!

Does it bore you to see the same plantsyear after year? Like old friends, Ianticipate their arrival as the seasonsunfold. By mid-August I had welcomedbutterfly ginger, cardinal flower, hiddenginger lily, ironweed, mistflower, surpriselily and tall coneflower. Colors ranged fromyellow to red to purple. Other plants arebudded to bloom or have green pods thatwill be maturing soon. But as they say,watched buds never open, watched podsnever ripen. Drop by next month!

In a naturalized landscapeaway from the house, squirrelsplay in the shadow of the deepwood and birds nestle in thebramble bush while a pair ofMississippi kites wheel overhead.In the waning summer, funnelweaver spiders lodge in boxwoodhedges. Around the house,blooming plants (irrigated inconjunction with my concrete slab)are an oasis in a parchedlandscape. Hummingbirds visitsalvias and sages. Gulf fritillariesfeed on lantana, their caterpillarscrawl on passion vines beyond thefence. Garden phlox host tigerswallowtails, giant swallowtails

and silver-spotted skippers, the largest skipperin North America. Green anoles run along thepatio fence, pausing to flash their pinkdewlaps, while little brown skinks wrigglethrough the leaf litter below. Green tree frogs,the state amphibian of Louisiana, croak after abrief shower. Several female garden spidershang upside down in their webs, one at mywindow cautiously courted by a much smallermale to one side.

Seasonal gardening advice is to pull upspring bedding plants and replant for a freshfall show. But my summer beds are waist high

with blooming annualsand perennials. They feeda beautiful array ofhummingbirds andbutterflies, and insectsthat support a thrivingcommunity of birds, frogs,lizards, spiders and

mantids that feed on those insects. Whydestroy such an elaborate backyard ecosystemby jerking out plants before they mature?Remember - autumn is man's time to reap andgather but nature's time to sow and scatter. Letplants complete their life cycle. Seeds sustainwinter wildlife and grow next year's crop. Andstalks provide winter shelter.

The severe drought and heat wavecontinue to oppress. Wilted, yellowing, fallingleaves - fruit sheddingprematurely - dyingplants, all testify to thebrutal outdoor climate.Adverse weatherextremes seem to bethe norm these days

and irrigation is a costly lifesaver. Next year,consider switching to hardier species. Find theplants that endure with minimal rainfall inyour neighborhood. Depending on theexposure and soil type in your yard, check outsurvivors like these for next summer's blooms:asters, black-eyed Susan, bulbs, butterfly weed,cannas, chicory, coneflowers, coralhoneysuckle, coreopsis, cosmos, daylily, falsedandelion, gaillardia, goldenrod, irises,ironweed, lantana, larkspur, liriope, mallow,mistflower, periwinkles, portulaca, sages,salvias, swamp sunflower, turk's cap, verbenaor yarrow.

As the summer of our distress doggedlydrags on, consider that design in nature is notthe result of geometry and fashion but survivaland function. Designing with nature appliesthese principles to the home landscape. Whenselecting plants for the naturalized garden, Ilook for hardiness, sustainability, extendedbloom, benefit to wildlife and then appeal tothe senses. If extreme weather patterns areforecast to continue, prepare by selectingdrought hardy plants. Going Native - it's thenatural thing to do.

A life-long resident of Lake Providence, Larry Brock wasinspired by his grandfather’s passion for gardening and hisown desire to recover the horticultural uniqueness of thisregion. Larry is drawn to the relationships between plants,birds, insects and soil and can be found puttering outdoorsin his yard most any time, weather permitting.

Nature's Time to Sow and Scatter GOING NATIVE By Larry Brock

Autumn is man'stime to reap and

gather butnature's time tosow and scatter.

I drove my wife to Broussard EyeClinic in Monroe and brought acouple of Louisiana Road Trip's toleave in the waiting room. Severalpeople picked them up and readthem with interest while I waitedfor her. LRT is a very popularpublication! Thanks for all you dofor this region.

Larry B., Lake Providence

We thank you and Johnny [Wink] for the mention in the article thismonth [July, 2011]. Nice magazine. Spectra Shot, via Facebook

I rarely read newspapers or magazines because they are usuallyfilled with trivial and negative information. Dining out, I sawLouisiana Road Trips [Alligator Hunting, July 2011], snapped one upand read it cover to cover. This is the best read I've come across inyears. Enclosed is my subscription order and if you have back issues,please tell me how to order them. Doug R., New Orleans

Thank you for recommending THE FEED LOT in Rayville. Greatplace to eat. Don S., Monroe

Your magazine is AWESOME! It's really got a lot of good informationin it. Jimmie C., Winnsboro

BACK

TALK

Page 9: Louisiana Road Trips September 2011 Issue

Louisiana Road Trips – 9 – www.laroadtrips.com

The Lamy Familyin Early Ouachita Parish HistoryBy Lora Peppers

Everyone isfamiliar with

Lamy Lane and Louisville Avenue inMonroe but very few know anythingabout the family they were named for.No descendants of that illustrious nameremain, but the family's legacy has animpact still felt today.

On May 7, 1797, Louis Michel Jean-Francois Lamy came to the OuachitaValley as a Maison Rouge colonist. Withhim were two slaves, Telemaque andSara. The young Frenchman was the sonof Louis Charles Antoineand Magdaleine LouiseMeurger Lamy, and wasborn in Normandy,France. Almost twomonths after settlinginto the area, Jean-Francois marries Felicity Roi, thedaughter of Auguste and MarianneMoron Roi. The two were married byCommandant Jean Filhiol.

Three years after their marriage onDecember 2, 1800, the first Lamy child isborn, Louis Francois Lamy. Jean-Francois and Felicity would have twomore children: Augustine and Louisa.Augustine seems to have died young,because no further record can be found

after their birth, but Louis andLouisa would become two ofthe most beloved residents inOuachita Parish.

Jean-Francois would bemade captain of the OuachitaParish militia in 1805, shortly afterthe Louisiana Purchase. He alsoserved on the board of trustees forthe first school in the area in 1811.That year, Jean-Francois passedaway from some unknown illness,leaving two young children and a

widow behind.Felicity Lamywould not remaina widow for long.It was very toughfor a singlewoman and two

young children to get by on theirown. On November 12, 1812, shemarries family friend John R.DeWitt. They would go on tohave two children, Isaac and Julia(who would marry John Ray).

The Lamy son, LouisFrancois, studied law andreceived his degree fromTransylvania College inKentucky and upon his arrival

back in Ouachita, wasmade the Parish Judge.Louis served from1832-1844 when theParish Judge positionwas abolished. He

was so well respectedthat some of the most

prominent men inOuachita would come tostudy under his tutelage.Men such as Wesley J.Q.Baker and John Raylearned their trade from

Louis. Louis married Lucinda E.Shannon February 27, 1838 butthey had no children. OnDecember 9, 1881, Judge LouisLamy died at the age of 81. It islikely he was buried in the OldCity Cemetery on DeSiardStreet but no headstone can befound. His obituary stated: “Hewas a gentleman of the old school,and a citizen of unblemished reputeand inflexible devotion to hiscountry. Peace to his ashes!”

The Lamy daughter,Louisa married a young planternamed Robert Forbes McGuireon April 24, 1820, a lawyer anddoctor by profession. He ismost well known for leavingbehind his diary. He kept verydetailed weather reports but hissocial observations were few.For instance, in an 1829 entry,he simply states, “Lost my twochildren this summer.”

Robert and Louisa Lamywould go on to have fivechildren together: Lewis, MaryLouise, Felicity, Robert Alan andAngela. All would die young,leaving no heirs. Robert andLouisa would help found theMasons and the Order of theEastern Star. Both societies havechapters in Monroethat still bear theirnames. Robert woulddie during the CivilWar in 1862. Louisawould outlive herentire family. OnFebruary 4th, 1882,almost two monthsafter her brother,Louisa Lamy McGuiredied at her home inMonroe. Her obituarystated, “It would befolly, in a short obituary,to give even a meagerpart of her eventful life-alife sparkling with acts ofkindness, full of charityfor suffering humanityand ever evincing awarm and generous

heart for orphanage.” Part of Louisa's

legacy, stipulated

in her will, was her husband'slaw office and books. They weregiven to the city of Monroe foruse as a public library.Unfortunately, nothing wasdone at the time to carry outher wishes. Around 1915, JudgeA.A. Gunby stumbled acrossLouisa's will in the courthouseand found her bequest. Afterfurther investigation, it wasfound the former law office onWood Street was being used tostore coal! It was immediatelycleaned out and a group wasformed to bring a library toMonroe. On May 8, 1916,Louisa Lamy McGurie's wishfinally came true; Monroe's firstpublic Library opened in thelittle house on Wood Street.

Lora Peppers, a Monroe native, grewup in Bastrop and graduated fromULM. Her love of history dates backto childhood when one of her favoriteactivities was visiting local cemeteriesto examine headstones. She also lovesto travel, the Great Smoky MountainsNational Park being her favorite placeon Earth. Her job as a genealogist andhistorian has given her the opportunityto lead many lectures and authorseveral books. She can be reached by e-mail at [email protected].

Very few knowanything aboutthe family they

were named for.

ouisianaRemember When . . .

1. What year did the LouisianaPurchase take place?

2. What future American presidentcommanded American troops at theBattle of New Orleans?

3. What building, located in NewOrleans, is the oldestapartment building in theU.S.?

4. What Louisianaplantation isconsidered to be themost haunted in the country?

5. What is Louisiana's state amphibian?6. Where is LA's geographic center?7. What is LA's highest point?8. What LA city is known as 'The Frog

Capital of the World'?9. When did the sugar industry start in LA?

10. What four nicknames does LA have?

Answers on next page 16

Page 10: Louisiana Road Trips September 2011 Issue

Louisiana Road Trips – 10 – www.laroadtrips.com

Hit the Road

Sacred Treasures Big Cedar Lodge and Silver Dollar City captures Ozark's beauty and craftsmanshipBy Deborah Burst

Exploring theMissouri Ozarks I

stroll along Table Rock Lake waiting for theperfect sunset shot. A pinkish glow drops lowacross the water as the marina lights shimmeron the wavy lake. In the eastern sky a silvermoon peeks above the trees while a blur ofbats dive for their evening meal. It's a Thoreaumoment, pristine forests, streams, lakes, fishand wildlife offer the same treasures onceworshipped by the Osage Indians who firstdiscovered this unspoiled beauty.

Deep inside the wooded hallows of theOzark Mountains rests Big Cedar Lodge, a 47-acre resort nestled on an 800-acre estateowned by the Bass Pro Shop properties. Theresort overlooks Table Rock Lake, a perfectcompanion for fisherman and a wideassortment of water sports withcomplimentary canoes and paddle boats. Boatrentals, fishing supplies, jet skiing,waterskiing, tubing and wakeboarding isavailable at the Bent Hook Marina. Or enjoy arelaxing champagne ride on the luxuriousGoin' Jessi, a replica of the vintage Chris Craftwooden runabouts of the 1930s.

One of my favorite activities washorseback riding led by a charming cowboyalong a wooded trail rimmed with creek bedsand towering bluffs. The stable also offerspony rides for kids ten and under, carriagerides around the grounds, campfire wagontours, and a winter holiday lights tour withbonfire, s'mores and hot chocolate.

The property boasts premium cuisinewith casual dining on the patio of TrumanCoffee & Café, refined elegance in theWorman House, southern cooking at theDevil's Pool Restaurant and barbeque withnightly entertainment at the Buzzard Bar.Chris Anderson and Clay Self share the stageon different nights and both provideentertainment at company picnics with coversongs from progressive country to classic rock.

Just 15 miles away, Dogwood CanyonPark brings guests deep inside the Ozarks.

Travel by tram, bus or horseback and witnessthe canyon floor, towering bluffs and coveredbridges. A scene so romantic many coupleschoose Dogwood Canyon to share theirwedding vows in a rustic 1800-style chapeloverlooking a waterfall. Those seeking a little

more adventure can book a group cattle drivewith or without overnight camping. Canyoncookouts are the perfect venue for companypicnics and family reunions or hop on thewildlife tram for a close look at elk, longhorncattle and American Bison. Cast a line into thespring-fed waters and reel in rainbow trout,take a guided fishing trip or enroll in a flycasting clinic.

Between Big Cedar Lodge and the city ofBranson, Silver Dollar City ignites oldfashioned American ideals for the entirefamily. The National Harvest Festival(September 10 through October 29) hosts morethan 100 visiting craftsmen with livedemonstrations. Moccasins, woodcarvings,quilting, heirloom seeds, oil paintings andcustom knives are just a few goods crafted onsite and available for sale.

The theme park provides year round funwith more than 30 high powered ridesincluding five roller coasters for multi-loopingthrills. If you prefer something more down toearth, visit many of theresident entertainment andcraft booths. Learn the art ofmaking lye soap or watchViolet Hensley, in her mid 90s,whittle a fiddle. The glass

blowing factory is an open stage creatingfreestyle glasswork and a store next doorstocked with an exquisite display of vases,plates and ornaments.

After working up an appetite, stop atMolly's Mill for an old-fashioned country

meal. Load up with double-battered friedchicken, skillet succotash and finish it offwith hot apple dumplings topped withhomemade ice cream. End the day sittingunder the stars in a natural amphitheatersurrounded by trees and watch thenation's only live stage version of Great

American Country Nights. Discover the magic of the Ozarks just as

the Osage people and make peace withnature. Throughout Big Cedar groundswaterfalls and flowing streams capture thesame rustic beauty that captivated settlers andvisitors centuries ago. Nearby Silver DollarCity presents centuries of craft making alongwith 21st century thrills and frills. No matterthe season, couples, families, company groupsor just a weekend with your pals, Big CedarLodge and Silver Dollar City has somethingfor everyone.

Deborah Burst, freelancewriter and photographer,lives and writes in thepiney woods ofMandeville. After a 30-year stint in banking, shegraduated from Tulane in2003. Her work hasappeared in regional,national, andinternational publications.A personal translatorblessed with an emotionalart form, Deb discoversthe food, culture, andpeople along the backroadseach month in LouisianaRoad Trips.

And for those who enjoy the city life, Branson, only eight miles away,hosts Las Vegas style shows with big-brand names. See Mona's articlefor more details.

Big Cedar Lodge, www.bigcedar.com, 1-800-225-6343Silver Dollar City, www.bransonsilverdollarcity.com, 1-800-475-9370

Dogwood Canyon, www.dogwoodcanyon.com, 414-779-5983

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BransonWhere Music Resonates Through the OzarksBy Mona L. Hayden

Relax and be entertained. That's exactlywhat happens in Branson. No matter whatyour age, you'll discover so much to see anddo here that you'll want to stay just a littlelonger!

Aptly named The Live Music Show Capitalof the World, Branson boasts many of the mostrecognized names in the business, playinglimited engagements. Several entertainerstaking stage in the next few months includeThe Oak Ridge Boys, The Gatlin Brothers,Louise Harrison's (Beatle George Harrison'ssister) Liverpool Legends, Andy Williams &Ann-Margaret, Tony Roi Elvis Experience,Paul Revere & The Raiders. If you likecomedy, be sure to see Tim Conway &Friends, Vicki Lawrence And Mama (a two-woman show), and 3 Redneck Tenors.

Some things never change in Bransonsuch as The Baldknobbers, the 'show thatstarted it all' back in 1959, who are stillperforming country music and comedy with2nd and 3rd generations of the Mabe family.The Presley's Country Jubilee, where fourgenerations perform nightly, is another verypopular longstanding show.

Grab tickets to see TheTwelve Irish Tenors, one ofthe hottest productionsanywhere, or the ShojiTabuchi Show -unbelievable! JEERK isanother fascinatingperformance that'll haveyou on the edge of your seatas Sweden' top rhythmartists transform everyday objects intomusical instruments. This month and next,Louise Mandrell and Lee Greenwood share astage while Johnny Mathis performs hismedley of hits. Hooray for Hollywoodfeatures 50 years of song and dance as ElvisTribute Artist Joseph Hall stars in a fullproduction with special effects. Tickets forComedian Todd Oliver even include a picniclunch! Other artists and entertainers you'llwant to see include Dolly Parton's DixieStampede Dinner Attraction, Circle B SupperShow, SIX, The Legend of Kung Fu, and ThePlatters and Bill Haley's Original Comets. Tocatch the holiday spirit, enjoy the AndyWilliams Christmas Show and also Christmaswith the Lennon Sisters.

With more than 50 live performance

theatres, Branson actually has more theatreseats than Broadway! That statistic isimpressive enough but there's even more atthis affordable and family-friendlydestination. How about three pristine lakes -Lake Taneycomo (one of the best tailwater troutfisheries in the U.S.), Table Rock Lake, and BullShoals Lake - for fishingand water sports? Orperhaps the twelvechampionship golfcourses pique yourinterest. Without adoubt, the entire familywill enjoy the award-winning theme and water parks.

Branson is centrally located in the U.S.,making it easily accessible by car for a largeportion of the country. With the new BransonAirport and the Springfield-BransonNational Airport just 50 miles away, you caneasily get away for a long weekend or anextended vacation. The recent merger ofAirTran into Southwest Airlines offer moreflights into both airports for additional

savings andconvenience. Book a5-star hotel, acondo, or stay in acabin, B&B, or gocamping. There'splenty of room tospread out and relaxhere.

The best partabout Branson is

that you can come specifically toenjoy dining and shows or have an action-filled time riding go-carts, playing miniaturegolf, touring the numerous historicalmuseums and wineries, splashing in thewater parks, and strolling the historicdowntown district. Let magicians dazzle youand the interactiveexperience of the Titanicthrill you. See theinfamous College of theOzarks, ride the BransonScenic Railway, or justshop, shop, and shopsome more. The newwaterfront BransonLanding's boutiques andstorefronts and the

outlet malls throughout the city areguaranteed to cater to your every whim.

As we move towards the Fall season,brilliant foliage and cooler days in theOzarks are worth the trip itself to Branson butthe outdoor music festivals and arts andcrafts add to the allure. Ziplines, hiking and

biking trails, and the southernMissouri temperate climatemake it ideal for those wanting toenjoy fresh mountain air andtranquil lake waters. Golfers willbe delighted with the views ofthe Ozarks and some of theMidwest's best pro shops.

Starting in mid-September, the hillybackdrop becomes illuminated with the rusticcolors of Autumn through November, makingdriving and boat tours a popular pastime.CNN Travel has recognized Lake Taneycomoas one of '8 Spectacular Foliage Cruises' inthe country. Many other agree as accoladespour in with the changing seasons.

In November, as Branson puts on itsfinest for the holidays, the city lights up with

elaboratedisplays andthemed liveshows makingit a Christmasfantasyland.The BransonLanding areawith waterfrontshopping andoutlet mallswith over 300

outlet shops allow you to easily check off yourChristmas list beneath twinkling lights andfestive music. Gift your loved ones withhomespun handmade treasures they're sure tocherish by Ozark craftsmen who have honedtheir skills to a fine art.

Breathtaking beautyaside, the Ozarks simplyoverflow withhospitality and charmand Branson alwayswelcomes you likefamily. Best of all is thevalue of your visit. As aguest, you're well fedand entertained while

With more than 50 live

performance theatres,

Branson actually has

more theatre seats

than Broadway!

continued on next page > > > 

JEERK

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making memories of a lifetime. Their genuineinterest in your comfort and enjoymentduring your stay is top priority of the theatresand entertainers, shopkeepers, restaurantstaff, and all of Branson. In fact, the bar is setso high that it's almost unsurpassed in theindustry.

One thing's forsure, you won't gohungry in Branson!The variety ofrestaurants rangefrom fine dining tofast food andeverything inbetween. Theweather is usuallyso nice that you'll want to enjoy a couplemeals outdoors, maybe even on the water.One restaurant not to miss is AndyWilliam's Moon River Grill(andywilliams.com), serving Americancuisine using his mother's recipes. Therestaurant also displays a vast collection ofworld class art including several AndyWarhol's from Mr. William's privatecollection. Another top shelf diningexperience is dinner at Hiltons of Branson

Level 2Steakhouse,serving agedcorn fedMidwest beefthat's justdelectable. Besure to try thelobster eggnoodles andcheese! Youalso have achoice of five

distinctive steak knives to enjoy your mealwith.

The Hiltons of Branson(hiltonsofbranson.com) is convenientlylocated in the heart of Historic Downtownon LakeTaneycomo,justminutesfromtheatres,outlet mallsand golfcourses.Other

nearby attractions include Silver DollarCity, White Water, and Showboat BransonBelle (email Lisa Rau [email protected] for details on allthree attractions). After a full day ofactivities, take in a show, drop by a comedy

club, or visit over drinks with friends,new and old. With the nearby lakes,enjoy a moonlit cruise or stroll.

The Branson/Lakes Area Chamber ofCommerce and Convention & VisitorsBureau can help plan your trip. Call 1-800-296-0463 for assistance. Visithttp://www.explorebranson.com/showsfor the current shows.

Branson continued

Louisiana Art & Folk Festival,Columbia

Come join us on Main Street in historic downtown Columbia on October 8, 2011 for the 56thLouisiana Art and Folk Festival. Fine artists highlight stained glass, pottery, paintings and otheroriginal artworks in our Art District.

Folklife demonstrations of days gone by include quilting, cooking on an open campfire (turnipgreens and cornbread), as well as Martin Homeplace's wood stove cooking. There will be a varietyof demonstrations throughout the day.

Adding to the excitement is an array of music. The Community Choir, Elvis, the CommunityBand, and the Mike McKenzie Band will be performing. The Briefcase Blues, a live musical show-band and revue based on the “Blues Brothers” characters, have been performing for 25 years andwill be performing at the festival.

After visitingthe various crafttables, enjoy thechildren's activitytent with a pettingzoo on the riverwalk.Treat yourself to agreat lunch at one ofthe food booths onthe festival grounds.

Admission is$3 for adults. Formore information,contact the CaldwellParish Chamber ofCommerce, (318)649-0726. Boothspace is available.

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Louisiana in the Civil War

September 1861: The Louisiana TigersBy Terry Jones

Lieutenant-Colonel Charles deChoiseul (“shwah-zool”) was not a

happy man in September 1861. A welleducated French Creole, he had been orderedto take temporary command of MajorRoberdeau Wheat's 1st Special Battalion whileWheat recovered from a serious wound. Thisbattalion was one of the most unruly units inthe Virginia army and few people wanted toassociate with it.

Wheat's men were a potpourri of highsociety lawyers, merchants and planters' sons,and low lifepickpockets, gamblers,and thieves. Onecompany, the TigerRifles, adopted thecolorful Zouaveuniform and was said to have been recruitedfrom New Orleans' jails.

Several Louisiana regiments madeheadlines for drunkenness and rioting butWheat's Battalion became the most notorious.It created so much mayhem in Virginia that itsoon became known as the Tiger Battalion,probably in reference to the Tiger Riflescompany.

Civilians and soldiers alike came to fearthe battalion. One Alabaman wrote that themen were “adventurers, wharf-rats,cutthroats, and bad characters generally.”Another soldier admitted, “I was actuallyafraid of them, afraid I would meet themsomewhere and that they would do me likethey did Tom Lane of my company; knock medown and stamp me half to death.”

Within six months after arriving inVirginia, the battalion's misdeeds included adrunken street brawl in Lynchburg, a rock-throwing fight with a Kentucky regiment, anda nasty incident in which ten members of theTiger Rifles took on an entire company ofGeorgians when the Georgians ran off withtheir whiskey bottle.

Although the vast majority of Louisiana'ssoldiers sent to Virginia were decent men,

there were enoughcriminals mixed in to giveall a bad reputation. Thegood were lumped in withthe bad and, becauseWheat's Tiger Battalionwas so infamous, all of thestate's 12,000 soldiersserving in Virginia becameknown as the LouisianaTigers.

Not long afterColonel de Choiseul assumed command of

Wheat's Battalion trouble beganwhen, as he said, “the whole setgot royally drunk.” An inebriatedsoldier tried to shoot the colonel'sorderly and another beat androbbed one of the battalion'swasherwomen. That night several

men tried to free some of the prisoners deChoiseul had placed in the guard house and awild free-for-all led to several more men beingplaced under arrest.

The next day the situation exploded.When de Choiseul ordered a sergeant to hisquarters for impudence, a comrade walked upand began defending the sergeant. DeChoiseul ordered him to the guard house, butthe man refused to go. Furious, the colonelknocked him to the ground twice but he stillrefused to leave. By then, a menacing crowdhad gathered around de Choiseul, who wasmounted on his horse. The colonel fingeredhis pistol and warned he would shoot the firstman who “raised a finger.” De Choiseul wrotethat a “big double fisted ugly looking fellowcame at me & said 'God damn you, shootme.'” De Choiseul drew his pistol and shothim point blank in the face. “He turned as Ifired & [I] hit him inthe cheek, knockingout one upper jawtooth & two lowerones on the otherside & cutting histongue.” The others

quicklyretreated fromthe obviouslydangerouscolonel, andDe Choiseulnever had anymore problemswith the men. Although oftenill-behaved in

camp, the 12,000 LouisianaTigers proved to be among thebest fighters in the Virginiaarmy. When their ammunitionran out at Second Bull Run theyrefused to retreat and beganthrowing rocks at the Yankees;they were the only Confederatesto break the Union line atGettysburg; and the Tigerspossibly saved Robert E. Lee'sarmy from destruction at

Spotsylvania by holding their position afterthe enemy overran other Confederate units.The Louisianians fought in every major battlein the Virginia theater and suffered appallingcasualties. When Lee surrendered atAppomattox after four years of war therewere only 373 Tigers still on duty.

Today, the Tigers' name lives on. In theearly 1900s, Louisiana State University's Dr.Charles E. Coates was trying to decide on aname for the football team. After being toldthat the Louisiana Tigers were the toughest setof men who ever lived, he chose them as hismascot. Contrary to popular belief, the LSUTigers are not named for a ferocious feline butfor Louisiana's most famous Civil Warsoldiers.

Dr. Terry L. Jones is a professor of history at theUniversity of Louisiana at Monroe and has published sixbooks on the American Civil War.

Some of the 126 Louisiana Tigerskilled at Antietam. Another 478 werewounded (Library of Congress).

There were enoughcriminals mixed in

to give all a badreputation.

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Celebrating Cajun RootsBy Cheré Coen

A few years before the English settled at Jamestown, a group ofFrench immigrants landed in what is now the Maritime Provinces ofCanada. They called their land “Acadie” or “Acadia” and thus becameknown as Acadians. The land switched back and forth between Franceand England over the years but the Acadians remained neutral,wishing only to farm their land.

Beginning in 1755, the English rounded up the peaceful French-speaking farmers, burned their homes and sent them into exilethroughout the 13 American Colonies, the Caribbean, England andFrance. After years in poverty, many made their way to Louisiana,which was under Spanish rule at the time and a welcominggovernment to Catholic settlers. Here in the Bayou State, theyregrouped and started anew.

Acadians in Louisiana are called “Cajuns” because when theAmericans took over Louisiana in 1803, they heard them called bytheir nickname “Cadjin” (pronounced “Cod-jen”), short for Acadian(pronounced “A-Cod-Ee-En”).

To top off the year, the Grand Réveil Acadien, or Great AcadianAwakening, will be Oct. 7-16 with events scattered throughout SouthLouisiana, sponsored by Louisiane-Acadie. The idea is to “awaken” thepride of being Cajun and help maintain this unique heritage, culture,food and language.

Grand Reveil Acadien events include an opening ceremony inNew Orleans, the port of entry for exiled Acadians finding a newhome in Louisiana; unveiling of the Acadian Deportation CrossMonument (a sister monument of the one in Nova Scotia) in Houma;Voice of the Wetlands Festival; marsh restoration; genealogy

workshops and family reunions; Cajun French Music Associationdance workshops and music; visits along the Boudin Trail in LakeCharles; la Fete de Famille; Festivals Acadiens et Creole; and FrenchMass and Closing Ceremonies of a Grand Procession featuring all theunique Cajun celebrations. For more information, contact Ray Trahanat (337) 288-2681 or visit www.gra2011.org and www.louisiane-acadie.com.

Cheré Coen is the author of “Exploring Cajun Country: A Tour Through HistoricAcadiana” and the blog “Have Book, Will Travel, Let's Eat” athttp://havebookswilltravelletseat.blogspot.com.

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The season isupon us. If youhaven't alreadysighted in your rifle,now would be a goodtime to start. Did youspend the last few

months practicing your marksmanshipskills with a .22 cal rifle? Did youglean information from all yourfriends on 'what is the perfect caliber'?That's a whole different subject soinstead, let's talk about sighting in.

Has your barrel been cleanedfrom last year's hunt? Did you clean itin the direction the bullet goes? Some semi-automatics won't allow that but it's the firstchoice. Cleaning from the chamber end alsohelps you not to rub the side of the crown offin the process. If you don't know, the crown isthe part of the barrel where the bullet leaves,the very tip. Thebarrel is going totwist this bulletand spit it out in aspiral spin like aquarterbackthrowing a pass.

Sighting inwith iron sights issimple. Move the back sight in the directionyou want the bullet to go. Do the opposite withthe front sight if it's adjustable. Case closed.

Scopes, the most accurate sight of all, costfrom forty bucks to thousands of dollars. #1:Do not use a scope as a pair of binoculars.Looking at your buddy on a deer stand 300yards away is not in his best health interest. Iffact, don't look at anything you don't mindputting a hole in. #2: Regarding pellet guns, donot put a nice expensive scope on one unlessits rated for air rifles as the piston recoil tendsto tear them up. #3: Match the gun to the

scope. If you've got a nice expensive rifle, buya nice expensive scope. Things to consider:power, size, weight, even color, but whoa…light gathering characteristics and paralex?Does the objective end at 50mm's do it foryou? I've got to have that 30mm tube, most ofwhich are made in Europe and cost lots more. I

can hunt all night with oneof those but legally, you'vegot 30 minutes before sunriseand 30 minutes after sunset.However, it's VERYimportant to be able to seehorns and size or in a worstcase scenario: “I see a large

rooting dark object a few hundred yards away.Looks like a hog (I'm not Jewish - this might begood!) or is it a bear?” Unless you feel likedonating lots of money to the State or losingyour hunting privileges and replacing a bear,remember target identification (could be a testquestion somewhere).

Paralex - GOOGLE it and you'll knowmore than I do. All I know is if you hold thescope perfectly still and move your headaround, the cross hairs should move at aminimum on your target. More movement =more paralex = bad bullet placement.

Type of cross hair is a personalpreference. Some have BDC's (bullet drop

compensators) calibrated for a particularcaliber. Good luck with that. I'm getting offtrack, back to sighting in… It is imperativethat the base and rings that hold your scope tothe gun are secured and tightened. Bigmagnums might need some Loc-Tite.

Bore sighting the scope. Ideally, removethe bolt looking down an 'empty' barrel andalign the sights with the target. Sand bag andplace the gun in a padded vice. 1/1000th of aninch off is multiplied greatly at 100 yards. Oruse one of the new bore sighter tools you slipinto the barrel, dial the scope in, and save a lot

of ammo. Another tool used is the laser boresighter. Takes all the fun out. Just remember toremove the tool before shooting. With all thisdone, good rest, good ammo, clean barrel, boresighted so at least you hit the paper at 25 yards.

Now pay attention: line of sight and bullettrajectory are two different things. One isstraight, the other is the bullet. You willnormally want the bullet strike an inch or so lowat 25 yards, the reason is your scope is mountedhigher than the barrel. Then the bullet takes anarcing path and you'll want a strike of oh, twoinches at 100 yards and it will begin to drop andbe on at 200 yards. This is typical. Remember,I'm getting youin the ballgamewith thisinformation asthere are fivedozen differentcalibers andtrajectories butthis will getyou close. Mostscopes have _” clicks at 100 yards. That's 16clicks at 25 yards, 4 clicks at 100 yards. Toocomplicated? Want to save some ammo andyour shoulder? Some big belted magnums are$5 a shot or more and I'm not plinkin with that!Try sand bagging or using the padded vice andshooting the rifle at a 25 yard target. Nowwithout moving anything while you hold thecross hairs, have your buddy gently move theadjustment til the cross hairs are on the bulletstrike. Two shots and you're sighted in.Remember you want to be low at 25, 2” high at100, and dead on at 200. As I write this, it's 104degrees outside and your barrel heats up if youshoot too fast. More factors to consider. HopeI've helped.

Sonny Harrington is a Hunter Safety Instructor. He isalso an NRA (National Rifle Association) Rifle & PistolInstructor and has hunted from Alaska to Mexico.

Sighting in Your Rifle

Don't look atanything you

don't mindputting a

hole in.

IN THE CR SSHAIRS By Sonny Harrington

Page 16: Louisiana Road Trips September 2011 Issue

Life is a SongJimmy Carr's Lyrical ReviewBy Mona L. Hayden

A nationally acclaimed blues, country,and gospel songwriter and producer, JimmyCarr, has come a longway from setting thehigh jump record in1966 in FranklinParish, and living hisNashvilleSongwriters Dreamfor the better part oftwo decades. He hassince semi-retired andreturned to Louisianato spend time withhis aging mom. With his business associatesand most of his friends in Nashville, Jimmystill writes songs and enjoys producing otherartists from around the country.

Recognizing his talent in twisting wordsto form lyrics, Jimmy began studying theprofessionals in Songwriter Magazine to learnthe profession. Then he started writing aboutwhat he knew best - Louisiana.After all, his grandmother wasGov. Jimmie Davis' babysitter sohis roots run deep in the state.One of his first songs, CatahoulaCur Dog, based on the LouisianaState Catahoula Leopard Dog, hasbecome a classic country hit onseveral albums released worldwide and hasbecome a legacy to some degree. “As a co-writer and producer of that song, I am verypleased to see it still out there selling afterbeing released 27 years ago,” says Carr.

Jimmy talks about the competitiveness ofsongwriters in Nashville. “When you hear

something thatsounds likegreat songtitles, youcut youreyesaround the

table to see if anybody else heard the hook.”He further explains, “The hook is usuallywhere a song takes root before it is written, butdown here in Louisiana, it's about catching afish.” One time Jimmy was sitting at a tablewith an unknown country artist at the timenamed Tim McGraw, when a comment wasmade about a beautiful woman singing onstage. At the time Jimmy made the remark,“She don't do nothing for me soshe must be doing it forsomebody else,” because his wifehad just filed for divorce. “I waskinda into woman hating thatnight,” Jimmy says. Later, a songwas written and then cut bynone other than Country MusicLegend Hank Williams Jr. on his“Wham Bam Sam” album.

Many of Jimmy's songhave been recorded by the likesof Hank Williams Jr., Ken

Mellons, GeneSimmons, and SonnyShroyer, who played thedipstick deputy “Enos” inThe Dukes of Hazzardtelevision series on CBS andnow on CMT. Jimmy andSonny became instant

friends and collaborated on a record project asadvocates for abused children. One of Jimmy'ssongs, Mary Jane Doe, was cut and releasedby Sonny and was very effective in bringingattention to child abuse throughout thecountry. Sonny played a child abusing fatherin “I'll Fly Away” and it bothered him somuch he decided to help fight the problem.Still the closest of friends, Sonny refers toJimmy as “Just a Great American”.

Jimmy Carr has also performed as asinger/songwriter on K-TEL RecordsInternational. His tribute to Elvis, “Birth To aLegend; Goodbye to a Friend,” was acclaimedby “Hoss” Logan (who originally signed Elvisin the Louisiana Hayride) as the 'best ElvisTribute ever written, bar none'. The tributewas released in 1978 and also appears on theElvis Mania Collection with stars such asMerle Haggard, Leon Russell, Conway Twitty,

Jerry Lee Lewis, Ricky Nelson, Faron Young,Patti Page, and a host of others. Carr hasalso co-written songs with friends likeGene Simmons who penned such hit songs

as Indian Outlaw, and Jerry Cupit, writer

of Jukebox Junkie, and Mac “The Fireman”Vickery. One of Jimmy's latest songs, Bodan'sHome, is about an old spook house out nearthe Four Forks Community in Richland Parishand is performed by Billy Ray and MileyCyrus' cousin, Bobby Cyrus, who Jimmy saysis like family to him. In fact, Jimmy usuallymakes the Cyrus Family Reunion each yearand September Fest in Bobby's hometown.

Also featuredon Bobby'salbum aresongs andvocalperformancesby Billy RayCyrus andCountryMusicLegend, TomT. Hall as wellas other hitwriters.

In the past, Jimmy has appeared as aregular at the infamous Gilley's Nightcluband the 16 Track Lounge at The Hall of FameHotel on Music Row, plus a host of othernotable nightclubs in Printer's Alley. He hasperformed for the Reunion of ProfessionalEntertainers (ROPE) whose membershipincludes well known Grand Ole Opry greats,and is also recognized for his video and adcreations in LA and TN markets.

Throughout both good and bad times,Jimmy has found that God has been by his sideand never gave up on him in spite of his manyshortcomings. Jimmy now gives credit to theone he feels deserves all the credit, Jesus Christ,in a self-published pamphlet called God'sSecret to Being Loved and Accepted. He isquick to point out, “This book comes fromexperiences taught me by the school of hardknocks, and I paid dearly for every lesson Ilearned.”

Jimmy Carr's company, Carrtunes, LLC,is positioned to become a major resource forLouisiana songwriters and singers. “Our goalis to produce top quality professional musicfor talented people without the majorexpenses charged in Nashville.” Investmentopportunities are available. If interested,please contact Carrtunes, LLC at (318) 581-9028, or at P.O. Box 235, Baskin, Louisiana71219.

“The hook isusually where asong takes root

before it iswritten.”

Sonny Shroyer & Jimmy Carr

ouisianaAnswers …

1. 18032. Andrew Jackson

3. Pontabla4. The Myrtles5. The green tree

frog6. Avoyelles7. Driskell

Mountain, 535 feet8. Rayne9. 1795

10. Sugar State, Creole State,Pelican State, Bayou State

Louisiana Road Trips – 16 – www.laroadtrips.com

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Hello folks, it'salways nice to visit withLA Road Trip readers.Have a seat and let'schat...~smile~ I found it while reading

an article online, but itwasn't the first time I'd seen it. Once again,someone had used the spelling d-a-w-g to refer toa southerner's pronunciation of the three letterword for canine. My immediate reaction was totake offense. I don't talk like that and no one I

my sisters and my eternal consternation,these kids always thought joining us in thefields was part of the fun. Go figure.

Papa was fueling up a piece ofequipment when one of our old dogs beganlicking up some of the gasoline that hadaccidentally spilled on the ground. Papahollered and shooed him out of it and thatdog took off running like he'd been shot outof a canon. Then, just like that he stopped ona dime and lay down right there in the field.Little Stan was quick to point this out.

“Look, Uncle Ed! He's just laying there.What 'cha reckon is wrong with him?” Towhich Papa replied. “Well, isn't it obvious,son? The poor thing has run slap out of gas.”

The moral of my story (for those whoneed one) is that the obvious answer is notalways the best one.

~Hugs, Shellie

Out of GasALL THINGS SOUTHERN By Shellie Tomlinson

know talks like that. However, when I triedto pronounce d-o-g with a short “o” sound,I laughed out loud. Okay, maybe I do say itthat way but if I may use the childish buteffective argument that once served me sowell when debating my sisters, “So?”

(I've personally refrained from sayingd-o-g to run a little test. If you can make itrhyme with cog, chances are you aren'tfrom around here.)

The truth is the four-legged friends Ihave now are dawgs and the ones I hadgrowing up were dawgs, which justhappens to offer me a perfectly legitimatesegue into the story I wanted to tell 'ya…

The day I have in mind we kids wereworking in the field next to our house withPapa. One of our city cousins, known tofamily as Little Stan, was spending a weekof his summer vacation at our house. To

All Things Southern“Bringing you the charm and heritage of the South…”ph 318-559-0319 • cell [email protected]

Northeast LouisianaCeltic Festival

The 7th annual Northeast Louisiana CelticFestival will be held Saturday, October 15th at theAmerican Legion Hall and surrounding areas ofForsythe Park on the banks of the beautifulOuachita River and in the historic Garden Districtof Monroe.

The festival is free to the public and once againco-hosted by The Humane Society Adoption Centerof Monroe and “Festival Headquarters” - Enoch'sIrish Pub & Cafe.

Enjoy performances and workshops by world-renowned Celtic musicians, scholars and storytellersas well as many regional artists and performers,demonstrations of traditional and contemporaryIrish dance, a children's stage and activities, Celticwares, visiting Scottish clans, athletic exhibitions,

authentic food and beverage, and much more. AsLouisiana's cultural heritage is vast, festivalattendees will see creative elements such as CelticMeets Bluegrass and Delta Blues music sessions,soccer and cricket matches between internationalcommunity groups, and folkways exhibitions such asblacksmithing, boatbuilding, and instrument making.

Many volunteers, civic organizations andsponsors also participate by hosting at the festivaland presenting satellite events at regional libraries,schools and universities, senior centers, concertvenues, museums, etc. Visit www.nelacelticfest.orgor www.enochsirishpub.com for details on eventsand information on this year's lineup, travelresources, and how to get involved. Sláinte! (Toyour health!)

SIGNIFICANTINCOME

POTENTIALFull Time / Part Time

Memphis company addingteam members

to promote ship-to-doorfood business.

Must have computer.Email:

[email protected]

Page 18: Louisiana Road Trips September 2011 Issue

Louisiana Road Trips – 18 – www.laroadtrips.com

This year's festival promises two days of great family fun!Kicking off on Friday, October 7 at noon and continuing throughSaturday at the Frank Anthony Park, 301 Church Street in Springhill.

Entertainment for opening ceremonies on Friday will be theNorth Webster high School 'Marching Band of Armour'. Localentertainers will perform outside throughout the day. Headlining at7pm is country artist J.J. Johns, a European chart-busting star fromSilves, Portugal.

On Saturday at 10am, don't miss the Lumberjack Festival Paradeas it rolls down Historic Main Street. Registrations for the antique car,truck, motorcycle, and tractor shows begin at 9am with the showending at 3pm. Trophies and plaques will be awarded in variouscategories. For parade or car show details, call Jan Corrales at 318-539-5699. For tractor show, call James Burns at (870) 859-5750.

Other activities include Volunteer Firefighters Competition atnoon when 'the other men with axes' compete to showcase skills tosave lives and property. Kids Korner will be loads of fun with artprojects, jumpy castles, rock wall, and carnival rides. Enjoy the festivalinclude wood carvers, photo contest, pet show, arts & crafts, and greatfood booths!

Saturday's live entertainment beginning at 11am is Springhill'sown 'Radio Tower'. Throughout the day, groups like 'The RescueMission' from Fayetteville, AR and 'Irene and the Sleepers' willperform. Headlining Saturday is 'Reaux Chambeaux', talentedmusicians returning again this year. Welcome back!

Don't miss music great MARK CHESNUTT at 8pm at ThePineywoods Palace. A Beaumont, TX native, Chesnutt has served up

14 No. 1 hits, 23 Top 10 singles, 4 platinum albums, and 5 gold records.Hear 'Bubba Shot the Jukebox', 'Blame it on Texas', 'Old Country', 'ItSure is Monday', 'Going Through the Big D', and so many more.Tickets are $35 for reserved seating and $25 for general admission.Tickets go on sale Friday, August 26 and can be purchased by callingJill at (318) 465-3989.

Springhill Lumberjack Festival

Page 19: Louisiana Road Trips September 2011 Issue

Louisiana Road Trips – 19 – www.laroadtrips.com

New Orleans Plantation CountryHas a Story to Tell. So Will You!By Jay A. Tusa, Executive Director, River Parishes Tourist Commission

New Orleans Plantation Country is hometo some of the most beautiful and famousplantation homes in the country, but it is their

unique stories and fascinating differences thattruly make them each worthy of a visit. Whenyou visit any of our nine magnificent

plantations, you'll hear real storiesabout the people who lived here -English sugar barons, Creole women,slaves and soldiers - each with theirown perspective. You'll see artifacts,read stories and touch history - fromthe grand ballrooms to theimpoverished slave cabins. Swamptours, mouth-watering cuisine and afeast of festivals weave their magicinto your adventure as well.

Along the winding River Roadbetween New Orleans and BatonRouge, this unforgettable journeyoffers a unique look into the past. Visitslave cabins at Evergreen Plantation orLaura: A Creole Plantation where the“Tales of Br'er Rabbit” originated. Seethe alley of 300-year old oaks and talkto “the Colonel” about the WarBetween the States at Oak AlleyPlantation. Houmas House Plantationand Gardensfeaturesbreathtakinggardens andLatil's LandingRestaurant.DestrehanPlantation andSan FranciscoPlantationprovide excellenteducational tours.OrmondPlantationfeatures uniqueWest Indies

architecture, Poché Plantation is the state's onlyRV resort, and St. Joseph Plantation is still aworking sugar plantation.

Go from grandeur to the great outdoorswith an exhilarating tour into our mysteriousswamps. Knowledgeable, fearless guides willtake you into the swamps for an up-closeexperience with Louisiana wildlife andwetlands. A variety of styles from coveredpontoons to racing airboats are available forswamp-seeing.

Once you've worked up an appetite,you'll savor world renowned Louisiana cuisine.From mom-and-pop local eateries to five-starfine dining, a delicious culinary adventure is asmuch of the experience as our attractions.

Festivals throughout the year offeradditional entertainment and even dining options!Please visit our website for our events calendarand additional details to plan your trip today.

Wherever your journey in New OrleansPlantation Country takes you, storytellers willcaptivate you - and you'll leave with yourown stories to tell!NewOrleansPlantationCountry.com

Miss-Lou Celebrates America AreaPays Tribute to 9/11 Victims

There's nothing more American than sitting outside a scenic venuelistening to patriotic music performed by a full orchestra and talentedsingers. People in the Miss-Lou region will have that opportunity from 6-8pm on September 11, 2011. The performance, Miss-Lou CelebratesAmerica, will pay tribute to those who lost their lives on that fateful dayand marks the tenth anniversary of terror attacks on American soil. Theevent is free to attend and is co-sponsored by the cities of Natchez, MS,Vidalia and Ferriday LA, and The Natchez Festival of Music. Mayors fromeach of the sponsoring cities will speak at this event.

A military color guard will be present for the Pledge of Allegianceand the National Anthem, while a patriotic hot air balloon tethers near thevenue. The event will be emceed by Sam Haskell with over 100 churchchoir members from both sides of the river performing with the St. JosephOrchestra and St. Joseph Jazzers. Also performing will be well-knownrecording artists, Mary Donnelly Haskell, and two other local soloists.

Soft drinks, water, and small American flags will be available forpurchase at the Amphitheatre, with proceeds going toward the 2012music festival season. Take the family out to enjoy this wonderful event,bring folding chairs or blankets, and arrive early to get a good spot.Show your support for the families who suffered the loss of loved onesduring this tragic time in American life.

HANDICAPPED PARKING AVAILABLE • SHUTTLE SERVICE by the VIDALIA CONVENTION CENTER from all areas on the RIverfront available

Page 20: Louisiana Road Trips September 2011 Issue

I Was Raised In North LouisianaBut I Think I Turned Out OK

One recent night Iwas sitting in myunderwear in myrecliner, considering

whether to sue the brewer of a certainMexican beer for basing its ad campaign “themost interesting man in theworld” on me without payingme any compensation (youknow the ads, “when he's inRome, they do as he does”, “ifhe pats you on the back, youlist it on your resume”) whentwo shows appeared back to back on theDocumentary Channel, both of which I feltwere somewhat derogatory toward northLouisiana.

The first show was about New Orleansand Acadiana but when they asked someCajun how he would describe northLouisiana, he replied, “North Louisiana isArkansas but without the charm.” Ouch. Thevery next show was called “The InvisibleGirlfriend”, about some fellow from Monroewho believes that Joan of Arc is histransparent girlfriend. The show followed aguy's bicycle journey from Monroe to NewOrleans. The images along the part of hisjourney through north Louisiana weresomewhat grim and reminiscent of EasyRider. They included a cow dying while

giving birth, road kill, and not-real-positivedepictions of the rural people/hunters he metalong the way. Where do they get these shots??

As I was watching these “educational”programs, I began to wonder how come it seemslike the rest of the world has a negative attitude

toward north Louisiana. Then ithit me. It's all because there hasnever been a hit song writtenabout north Louisiana.

New Orleans has had amillion songs written about it,and Cajun land has had

thousands, i.e. “Jambalaya”, “Amos Moses”, etal. But can you name one song about northLouisiana? John Denver wrote two great songsabout two great states, Rocky Mountain High(Colorado) and Take Me Home, Country Roads(West Virginia). But as of yet, no one has steppedforward to pen a song about north Louisiana.Until now.

I admit I'm not much of a songwriter, butsomeone needs to do it. I don't even know forsure whether you are supposed to write thelyrics first, or the words. To save time, I decidedto use the tune from John Denver's “Take MeHome, Country Roads”. Here it is…

Almost Arkansas, but lots flatter,Macon Ridge, Ouachita RiverLife is Tough There, tougher than deer meat,

Softer than the boll weevils, blowing in the heat [chorus]

Interstate 20, Take Me Home,To the Place I was Baptized(Twice, Just to be on the Safe Side)North Louisiana, Tattooed Mama,Take me home, Interstate 20

All my memories, gathered 'round themWives and girl friends, strangers toemploymentMe, broke and lusty, looking on the slyFlat taste of yesterday's beer, redness in my eyes

[Repeat chorus]I hear their voice, in the noon hour they call me,The Bar Association reminds me a suspensionmay not be far awayAnd driving down Interstate 20 I get thefeelingThat I should have been Baptized one moretime, one more time.

[Chorus x 2 (modulates)]

Well, that's the best I can do rightnow. By the way, if the brewer of a certainMexican beer reads this column, don'tthink you can steal my song, too.Dennis Stewart grew up in northeast Louisiana,graduated from La Tech and LSU Law School. Afterhaving taught law at ULM and working as anAssistant District Attorney, Dennis is now aHearing Officer in Rayville. He loves to hunt, fish,read, write, and shop on eBay.

A LIFE OF TRIAL…AND ERROR By Dennis Stewart

There has neverbeen a hit song

written aboutnorth Louisiana.

Beating the Heat in ShreveportBy Su Stella

These triple digitsummer temps have mefeeling like I'm stuck in a'house cave'. With the fallseason coming up, it's

time to get out and see something other thanmy four walls. Let's go to…

The Barnwell Garden and Art Center onClyde Fant Parkway along the Red River hastwo ongoing shows: one in the Main Gallery -Cory Carlson - "Natural Impressions" and inthe Corridor Gallery - Hoover WatercolorMembership Show. Starting September 1through October 31 in the Wafer Gallery -"National Anthems/Patriots Dreams". Checktheir website for details on the openingreception for this 9/11 inspired show atwww.barnwellcenter.com.

Louisiana is chock full of people of theworld. The Multi Cultural Center of the Southis home to artifacts from 26 of the statescultures. Each room is artfully arranged to

highlight people from Greece, Japan, Scotlandand more… See if your ancestors arerepresented. For details, visitwww.mccsouth.org.

ArtSpace is currently featuring adynamic show with artists Dorothy KristinHanna, Dee Dee Hall, and Jonathon Moore.You can enjoy lunch upstairs in the Café andpick up a souvenir in the gift shop. Find outmore at www.artspaceshreveport.com.

Be sure to visit the Karpeles ManuscriptLibrary at 3201 Centenary that housesmanuscripts and letter throughout history.Imagine seeing actual handwritten letters,copies of speeches and notes from some ofhistories most influential people. Check theirwebsite www.karpeles.org for times.

The Meadows Museum along with theirpermanent collection has temporary shows.Currently running is Bethany Krull, SelectedCeramic Works from the Series Dominanceand Affection, Signal and In Servitude. This

features unique sculptures that speak of manand animals place in the world. Forinformation visitwww.centenary.edu/meadows.

If you prefer sitting in a cool dark place,then see a movie. Robinson Film Center atwww.robinsonfilmcenter.org hostsindependent, classic and local films. Enjoy acocktail and snack in their in-house bistro,Abby Singers, before or after the show.

We've recently seen Tornado Alley,Hurricane on the Bayou and Hubble at theIMAX theater at SciPort. You can make a fullday by touring the science center, too. Visitwww.sciport.org for times and prices.

If the newest and latest movie is yourthing, the Regal Theater has all the hits. Youcan grab a bite, shop or even play mini-golfwhile you are there. Hopefully these dog daysof summer will cool into a perfect autumn.Enjoy whatever life brings. Peace, Health andProsperity- S*

Louisiana Road Trips – 20 – www.laroadtrips.com

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Louisiana Road Trips – 21 – www.laroadtrips.com

On the Scene

New Orleans From a Local's ViewpointSame Character-Half the Price By Deborah Burst

True, times are tough, but no need to stayhome because our politicians can't get theiract together. Just need a little creative thinkingfrom a local's point of view. Here's a fun list offreebies and my favorite restaurantsdowntown, uptown, off the beaten path, anddown the streetcar line.

French Quarter/Downtown - WalkJackson Square and admire the artwork orthe Quarter's European architecture. Sit at theWoldenberg Riverfront Park and watch theships float down the Mississippi. Visit theHistoric New Orleans Collection forhistorical exhibits, and vintage photography.Take a tour of St. Louis Cathedral or ArnaudsGermaine Cazenave Wells Mardi GrasMuseum. Window shop along Royal Street'sart galleries and listen to the street musicians.On Decatur Street Southern Candymakersoffers free samples of homemade pralines.View the New Orleans skyline from the Rivervia a roundtrip ferry ride. Watch looming atLouisiana Loom Works on Chartres and sayhello to the owners and their feline mascots.

Some of my favorite haunts averaging$10-20 entrees. Café Beignet brings threelocations serving beignets, breakfast, andsandwiches all day. With a great view ofJackson Square, Stanley's offers premiumburgers, sliders, omelettes and old fashionedsoda fountain desserts. Popular among localsand tourists, the Gumbo Shop serves Creolecuisine in a historic 18th century buildingwith garden patio. Everyone loves the largepo-boys at Johnny's Po-Boys and the CentralGrocery world famous muffalettas. Rotollo'son Charters has great prices on pizza,calzones and pitchers of beer. Perfect forcouples or families on a budget, Mona Lisa onthe lower end of Royal Street serves from ahuge Italian menu. Another great familyrestaurant with Mexican food is Felipe's in theQuarter and Uptown with tasty chips and thesuper sized burrito.

Faubourg Marigny (across the FrenchQuarter bordering Esplanade Avenue)Frenchman Street hosts a dozen music clubsfeaturing rock, jazz, blues, reggae with nocovers and decent drink prices. For late nightmunchies hit restaurants 13 Monaghan andLa Peniche. Cake Café bakes incrediblepastries along with a savory breakfast/lunchmenu.

Uptown (Along the Streetcar line) -Romantics and bargain hunters will love theSt. Charles street car line ($1.25 ride) past thepalatial homes. Stop and sip a mint julep onthe Columns Hotel porch. Hop off in front of

Tulane University and have a picnic lunch atAudubon Park. Further down at St. Charlesand Carrollton there's world famousCamellia's Grill, and nearby Cooter Brown'sTavern & Oyster Bar keeps patronsentertained with wall-to-wall television andmore than 40 beers on tap. Take the red streetcar down Canal Blvd. to City Park and theNew Orleans Museum of Art (veryreasonable) with awesome (free) sculpturegarden. My all time favorite restaurant isBoucherie on Jeannette St. right off theCarrollton streetcar line featuring ChefNathanial Zimet's contemporary southerncuisine. A couple blocks over, Tru Burger onOak St. is a traditional diner that grinds itsown beef served on house-made buns withloads of toppings for burgers and hot dogs.

Uptown (Magazine Street) - MagazineStreet is five blocks off of St. Charles for thosewho don't mind a little walk from thestreetcar line. Get your chocolate fix alongwith coffee and pastries at the Sucre SweetShop, Tracey's (owners of Parasols movedthere) is the bestneighborhoodrestaurant/bar onMagazine Street.Tattooed servers addto the Bohemian décorof Juan's FlyingBurrito with pork 'n'slaw taco or my

favorite the shrimp juaha roll. A popularwatering hole, The Bulldog has over 50 beerson tap along with tasty pub-grub.Casamento's is famous for their oyster loafbut check out their hours before you go. A

classic neighborhood restaurant,Frankie and Johnny's, servesvintage New Orleans seafood andItalian fare. Hungry for a littlemore swagger, Joey K's has entriesstarting at $12. MV servesgourmet burgers but only open onSundays serving from the popularSlim Goodies Diner with anawesome breakfast and NewOrleans cuisine (cash only).

Freret Street is experiencing afoodie renaissance and Dat Dogsis top dog with Polish kielbasa,German bratwurst, Louisiana

sausage and beef wieners served on steamedsourdough buns. If you prefer somethinglighter and different, Tartine Uptown onPerrier St. serves sumptuous pastries, quiche,tartine (open-face sandwich), salads andsandwiches with fresh baked bread. This is just a sample of my favorites. Thewebsites offer much more by location andprice range. Use common sense when touringthe city, daytime walking and biking is fine, atnight calling a cab is your best bet for longdistances. And take the time to observe themagnificent architecture with self-guided tourbrochures at the Preservation Resource Centeror on their website.

Deborah Burst, freelance writer and photographer,lives and writes in the piney woods of Mandeville.After a 30-year stint in banking, she graduated fromTulane in 2003. Her work has appeared in regional,national, and international publications. A personaltranslator blessed with an emotional art form, Debdiscovers the food, culture, and people along thebackroads each month in Louisiana Road Trips.

New Orleans list of fifty free activities:http://www.neworleansonline.com/neworleans/attractions/fiftyfree

things.htmlNew Orleans Convention & Visitors Bureau,

www.neworleanscvb.comTom Fitzmorris, New Orleans food writer website,

www.nomenu.comPreservation Resource Center, www.prcno.org

Page 22: Louisiana Road Trips September 2011 Issue

Louisiana Road Trips – 22 – www.laroadtrips.com

Should YourCat Reproduce?

Before you breed your cat, do some research andtalk with experienced breeders because it's not assimple as it sounds. You need to be prepared for anysituation you encounter. Do you have time to dedicateto breeding? Time spent with new kittens willincrease dramatically. Can you afford vaccinating anddeworming kittens? If you can't find new homes forthe new babies, are you willing to keep them? Thismeans more feeding and more cleaning.

Don't breed your cat for the wrong reasons. Eachyear about 17 million dogs and cats are turned over toanimal shelters and only one out of ten find a home.Of the rest, some 13.5 million will be destroyed.

Some wrong reasons are breeding becausekittens are soooo cute. They grow up quickly andmay not be as cute. You want your kids to experiencethe miracle of birth. You want to sell the kittens. Theright reason to breed your cat is to promote aparticular breed. Only top quality members of a breedshould be used. Make sure kittens have a home evenbefore breeding. After much consideration, youshould make the best decision for your family and foryour cat.

Page 23: Louisiana Road Trips September 2011 Issue

Louisiana Road Trips – 23 – www.laroadtrips.com

Stretching overjust 2.5 square mileswith a population ofonly 7,605 (accordingto the 2000 census)

the city of Donaldsonville owns afascinating history that belies its smallsize. The area was named after WilliamDonaldson, a wealthy English landowner,and served briefly (1830-1831) as thecapital of Louisiana. It was also the site ofone of the most significant conflicts tooccur during the Civil War: The Battle ofFort Butler.

Donaldsonville is located about 30miles south of Baton Rouge and sits alongthe west bank of the mighty MississippiRiver. This location by the waterway madethe city a valuable target for both theUnion and Confederate armies during theCivil War. The river and its tributaries werethe fastest and most efficient means oftransporting troops and supplies at the time.

It was also the method by which theConfederate armies could by-pass NewOrleans, a Union stronghold at the time, andreach the Gulf of Mexico.

In 1862, Union forces capturedDonaldsonville after U.S. warships underthe order of Admiral David Farragutbombarded the city, allowing the army to

take over this vitallocation. PresidentAbraham Lincolnordered theconstruction of FortButler, a star-shaped structurelocated at theconvergence ofBayou Lafourcheand the MississippiRiver designed tomaintain controlover this area. TheConfederate army,though, was notdeterred and in1863 launched anight attack on thefort that wouldlater be known atThe Battle of FortButler. It was abloody battle thatsaw theConfederacydefeated, allowingDonaldsonville andthe waterway toremain underUnion control.

The Battle of Fort Butler was significantfor another reason: It is believed to be one ofthe first Civil War battles involving freed andfugitive slaves. After the takeover of

Donaldsonville by the Union army in 1862,many slaves who fled plantations madetheir way to the city seeking refuge. TheNorthern army gave them the task ofbuilding the large fort and, when it cametime to defend it from the Confederatearmy, many gave their lives in battle. Thisdistinction adds another layer to the city'slong legacy.

Today, Donaldsonville is a growing,bustling community with strong ties toits past. The Donaldsonville HistoricDistrict, an area of about 50 blocks onthe west bank of the Mississippi River, ishome to about 640 buildings dating back

to the period between 1865 and 1933.Donna Schexnaydre, a long-time resident ofDonaldsonville, has a deep appreciation forthe city's history. She is a proprietor of TheVictorian on the Avenue(www.BnBFinder.com/VictorianAvenue),an inn located on Railroad Avenue in theHistoric District. Built in the 1890's, theQueen Anne-style home was a private,family residence and a photography studiobefore she and her husband, Kent,transformed it into a bed and breakfast.

According to Donna, the city's richheritage draws travelers from far and wide.“We host guests who come specifically tolearn about our history,” she said. “ManyEuropeans visit with us as part of their tour.”While she is always interested in sharingDonaldsonville's past, she is excited about itsfuture as well including the city's designationthis past August as a Cultural District inLouisiana which will provide tax credits toproperty owners for renovations and taxexemptions for original works of art in thedistrict. “Now artists can come into thecommunity and help change it for the better,”said Donna. And she would know. “I'm anartist, too!”Mary White is the author of “Running a Bed &Breakfast For Dummies” and an avid B&B goer. She hasstayed at bed and breakfasts all over the world andparticularly loves the inns of Louisiana. In 1998, Maryfounded BnBFinder.com, a top on-line bed and breakfastdirectory that lists thousands of B&Bs, inns, andboutique hotels worldwide.

A City's Civil War PastBEDS & BEIGNETS By Mary White

Fort Butler Commemorative Site, courtesy of AscensionParish Tourism Commission

Page 24: Louisiana Road Trips September 2011 Issue

Planning a Vacation is a Lot of Work! By Johnny Wink

I'm already wornslap out. I booked myvacation to a resort inNergil, Jamaica beforehunting seasons start. I

usually go on vacation right after huntingseason but things came up and I didn'tmake it. I started looking online for a funplace to go. I talked to a travel agent andfound this resort on the beach and it has adisco. August is almost too close to huntingseason but I've got to have some goodstories to tell in theduck blind this year.This ought to do it.

Now let me tellyou what I've gonethrough already. First,I'm a 52-year-old, overweight, single mangoing to a place to meet other people andmaybe even a Trophy Wife. (I've told youabout Trophy Wives and how I've beensearching all over the country. Now I'mgoing to broaden my search out of thecountry.) Of course, all my friends have hadso much advice. Like clothes. I have all thelatest camo hunting clothes but none toimpress women on an island. I learned thatevery night there will be a costume party.That's right. One night is a Toga night, thenJamaican night, PJ night, and well, Monasaid I couldn't tell anymore here. I figuredI'd look like a nerd (doesn't take too much)so I bought some of these costumes, plussome more goodies.

It's going to be fun dancing in the discotill the wee hours. That meant I had to getsome disco clothes. Two young women tookme shopping for clothes that would make allTrophy Wives want to dance with me allnight long. Every time I'd pick somethingout, they'd say “not no, but heck no!” Since Idon't know the coolest and latest style, I letthem pick 'em all out for me. I have to saythey did a good job.

I needed shoes to impress thewomen so I got a pair of SperryBoat Shoes in case I get on a boat. Ialso got me a new pair of Crocs butnot the camo ones I like but theones with a little leather on them.You know, the kind women go wildover. I got these shoes for walkingup and down the beach while I'mstrutting for them.

Next came sunglasses. I havean old pair of camo sunglasses thatwork well while I'm on a tractor or

4-wheeler but not for strutting. So I got helpand ended up with a pair of Costas. What Ihad to pay for them, the women better getin line for me. And I had to get a newsuitcase which cost a bunch but makes melook like a seasoned traveler. Also, I had toget lots of sunscreen. I did find out that Ican go fishing so that's a good thing. Nowthat I'm trophy hunting I might not want togo fishing but it's there if I do.

To top it off, I got some nice clothes togo out at night in. I also had to get some

yoga clothes because I signed up foryoga classes. I don't know what I'lldo there but the teacher sure lookedgood in the brochure. Thensomebody told me Trophy Wiveslike real white teeth so I had to

get my teeth real white. Now I'm a hairy guy. I have a lot of

hair all over my body - chest, arms andlegs - everywhere except on my head. Itkeeps me warm during the winter and Ilike it. It's so manly. But I just found outTrophy Wives want it all cut off orshaved. Anything for her. I tried to getwaxed or shaved but couldn't find aplace that did that for men so I set out todo it myself. Well, I found out I neededa body trimmer. I tried it but this thinggot stuck a few times. Eventually I got itbeat down pretty good. It looked likemowed grass with one blade notworking. When I told my lady friendabout this, she said to get some stuff in abottle call NEET. You put it on, wipe itoff in six minutes and you'll be slick as ababy's behind. I wiped it all over,waited, then jumped in the bathtub towipe it off and all of a sudden my hairstarted to float everywhere. That's whenI got scared but in theend, I'm slick as awhistle.

Every nightthere will be a

costume party.

All this just to go on vacation and I haven'tleft yet. Then the weekend before I leave, me andsome friends decided to put up a deer stand in thewoods for bow season. Well, I sat down too longand got red bugs all over my legs, tummy, andbutt, and boy did they itch! Don't forget I'm nowhairless so you can really see the bites. I didn'tknow women didn't like hair. I even have some inmy ears. Guess I have to cut them, too.

If I get down there and don't find a TrophyWife, I can always find me some worms and get apole and a line and sit on the beach and look coolwith all the clothes and stuff I bought for this trip. Ibet I'll be the best looking hairless fisherman on thebeach. But just wait till dark comes and the discoopens. I will be the Disco King. Look out TrophyWives, here I come.

Louisiana Road Trips – 24 – www.laroadtrips.com

Charming efficient home (1993) on 4+/- VERY SECLUDEDacres off Forty Oaks Farm Road in West Monroe. GeorgeWelch/Good Hope school district, great neighborhood.Lots of extras including barn with concrete floor, aboveground pool, 600sf of decks, greenhouse, beautiful maturelandscaping with water feature. Backs up to finger ofNorthwood Lake with abundant wildlife. Large living room,den (could be 3rd bedroom), office, whirlpool tub,plantation shutters throughout, F/P,A wood, laminate &ceramic flooring, security system, built-in bookshelves,great condition. Perfect move-in ready home in the woods!Room to expand or build additional homes. Best value foryour money! $239,000

Contact:[email protected] or (318) 547-1221

Page 25: Louisiana Road Trips September 2011 Issue

Louisiana Road Trips – 25 – www.laroadtrips.com

SeptemberCalendar of Events

Sept 20-25____________

Sabine Fair & Festival Expo

Many – 800-358-7802

Sept 22-24____________

Great Southern RV Park Bluegrass

Festival

Angie – 985-516-4680

Alligator Festival

Luling – 985-785-4545

Sept 22-25____________

LA Sugar Cane Festival

New Iberia – 888-9-IBERIA

Sept 22-30____________

Ark-La-Miss Fair

Monroe – 318-329-2225

Sept 23-24____________

Jim Bowie Festival

Vidalia – 318-336-8223

Oktoberfest - Deutsches Haus

New Orleans – 504-522-8014

LA Chicken Festival

Dubach – 318-777-1964

Jim Bowie BBQ Duel

Vidalia – 318-336-8223

3rd Annual BPCC 100 Mini NASCAR

Race

Bossier Parish Community CollegeCampus, Bossier City318-678-6010

Sept 24_______________

La Fete d'Ecologie

Thibodaux – 800-259-0869

Germantown Bluegrass Festival

Minden – 318-426-4691

Sept 25_______________

Cal-Ca-Chew Festival

Lake Charles – 337-439-4585

Calca-Chew Food Festival

St. Margaret Family Center,1103 17th St., Lake Charles(337) 439-4585

Sept 26-30____________

Natchitoches Parish Fair

800-259-1714

Winn Parish Fair

Winnfield – 318-628-2781

Sept 28-30____________

Bluegrass Festival

Oak Grove – 318-428-5282

Tangipahoa Parish Fair

Amite – 800-542-7520

Sept 30_______________

Gallery Promenade

Downtown Lake Charles(337) 439-2787

Sept 2-3______________

Cane River Zydeco Festival & Poker

Run

Natchitoches – 800-259-1714

Sept 2-5______________

Shrimp & Petro Festival

Morgan City – 985-385-0703

Sept 3________________

Drake Salt Works Festival

Goldonna – 800-259-1714

Original SW LA Zydeco Festival

Plaisance – 337-942-2392

2011 Port City Classic

College football: Grambling State

Tigers vs. Alcorn State Braves

Independence Stadium, Shreveport(318) 274-2468

Sept 3-5______________

KC Council 3425 Labor Day Fishing

Rodeo

Cypremort Point

Sept 4________________

Creole Zydeco Festival

St. Martinville – 888-565-5939

Sept 7-18_____________

Smokin' Oldies BBQ Cook Off

Port Allen – 225-334-2910

Sept 8________________

Springhill Lumberjack Festival

Springhill – 318-539-5699

Sept 8-10_____________

Pecan Ridge Bluegrass Festival

Jackson – 225-629-5852

Sept 9-10_____________

Meat Pie Festival

Natchitoches – 800-259-1714

Cajun Food Fest

Lydia – 337-365-5577

St. Jude Fall Festival

Zwolle – 318-315-0104

Sept 9-11_____________

Bayou Lafourche Antique Show

Thibodaux – 985-413-1147

St. Theresa Bon Ton Festival

Sulphur – 337-583-4800

St. Theresa's Carlyss Cajun Bons-

Temps Festival

St. Theresa's Catholic ChurchGrounds, Carlyss – (337) -583-4800

Sept 10_______________

Delta Music Festival

Vidalia – 318-336-8223

Celebration of Butterflies

Haynesville – 870-234-4910

2011 Red River Dragon Boat Festival

RiverView Park, Downtown Shreveport318-221-3053

Sept 10-11____________

Roasting with Rosie BBQ Festival,

Jennings – 337-821-5521

Fleur-de-lis Fest

Mandeville – 985-796-5853

Sept 15-17____________

Hickory Grove Bluegrass Weekend

Deville – 318-466-5495

Sept 16-17____________

Good Ol Days Festival

Marthaville – 318-472-1654

Pioneer Days

Greenwood – 318-938-7261

Sept 17_______________

CFMA Cajun Music Festival

New Iberia – 870-234-4910

Sept 17-18____________

Fall Fest Slidell

Slidell – 985-796-5853

Louisiana Gator Festival

Mandeville – 985-867-9490

Sept 20_______________

Taylor Swift “Speak Now” World Tour

2011

CenturyLink Center, Bossier City, LA318-747-2501

2011

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Page 26: Louisiana Road Trips September 2011 Issue

September is like starting a new year. Thismonth kicks off a new school year, a new footballseason, and hopefully some much needed coolertemperatures. Tailgating is a big part of highschool, college, and NFL football so this month I'msharing some classic tailgating sandwich recipes.Enjoy the recipes and I hope your team wins big.Geaux Saints!

by Stacy ThorntonRECIPES

Tailgating Muffaletta'sYou can't have a muffaletta without the perfect olive mix. Place all

ingredients in food processor and pulse until chopped coarsely.Olive Salad Mix

3/4 cup pimento-stuffed olives 1/4 cup pitted Kalamata olive2 lg. pepperoncini 2 Tbsp. olive oil3 - 4 pickled onions 2 Tbsp. capers1 medium clove garlic, chopped 1 tsp. dried oreganoA couple grinds of black pepper 2 tsp. fresh lemon juice1/4 cup giardiniera (Italian pickled vegetables)

Sandwich ingredients:1 loaf of Italian bread (I love Ciabatta!)1/4 lb each of thinly sliced ham, salami, and

bologna from the deli (mortadella)1/4 lb each of thinly sliced provolone and mozzarella cheeses

Halve bread. Layer with olive mix, meat, and cheeses. Yummy!

Pulled Pork Sandwiches1 large onion 6 cloves of garlic peeled1 pickled jalapeno pepper, seeded and chopped2 tsp chipotle chili powder 1 tbsp tomato paste 2 tbsp Dijon mustard1 tsp paprika 1/3 cup ketchup2 tsp Worcestershire sauce 1/4 cup brown sugar1 bay leaf 3 lb pork butt shoulder roast1 quart of water buns

Trim excess fat off of meat. In food processor combine the first 10ingredients and puree for sauce. Marinate pork in sauce overnight orat least several hours before cooking. Place meat, sauce, bay leaf in alarge pot with water. Bring mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and simmercovered. Turn meat frequently for about 2 hours until it pulls aparteasily with a fork. Cool pork in sauce. Remove meat from sauce.Reduce sauce by two thirds. Add pork back to sauce. Season with saltto taste. Remove bay leaf. Serve on buns.

Beef Brisket Sandwiches3 1/2 to 4 lb beef brisket 1/2 cup bottled chili sauce2 tbsp liquid smoke 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce1 tbsp steak seasoning 1 tsp garlic salt1 1/2 cups barbecue sauce 2 large onions, chopped2 - 1/2 oz pkg dried morel mushrooms (optional)12 oz bottle of beer or 1 1/2 cups apple juice or ciderCiabatta bread, rolls, or buns

Trim fat from brisket. Place in a large resealable plastic bag. In a bowl,combine chili sauce, liquid smoke, Worcestershire sauce, steakseasoning, and garlic salt. Coat meat evenly with sauce on all sides.Refrigerate 8-24 hours. In a small bowl, cover dried mushrooms withhot water. Let stand 20 minutes. Drain water and rinse. Place on papertowels to drain off as much of the water as possible. Place brisket inroasting pan. Pour marinade over brisket. Top with mushrooms andonions. Pour beer over brisket. Cover with foil. Bake in a 325 degreeoven for at least 4 hours. Uncover. Pour barbecue sauce over brisket.Bake uncovered an additional 30 to 40 minutes, adding water if desired.Pull meat apart using two forks to separate into long thin strands.Return meat to sauce. Spoon meat into desired bread and enjoy!

Apple Peanut Butter SandwichesThis one is for the kids or young at heart. When I was growing up, mymom would have sliced apples and peanut butter for us to snack onafter school. Still love the combination.

Apple Peanut butter bread

Peel, core, and thinly slice apple. Spread peanut butter over 2 slices ofbread. Top one slice of bread with sliced apples. Top apples withremaining slice of bread.

Louisiana Road Trips – 26 – www.laroadtrips.com

Page 27: Louisiana Road Trips September 2011 Issue

Louisiana Road Trips – 27 – www.laroadtrips.com

Man Down! By Robert Lemoine

You've heard it onplenty of TV showsand movies. If you'veever served in themilitary, law

enforcement, fire and rescue, or any other suchprofession, you may have even heard it or saidit first hand. “Man Down! Man Down!”

It is a signal that help is neededimmediately. It's time somebody comes to theaid of our great nation. She's on her knees, butshe's not there to pray. The enemy has trippedher up. She's bowed down, fully exposed justwaiting for the executioner to make a finalblow to behead her. She's beaten and bruisedand is bleeding out. “Man Down!”

Only this time, the medics are not whatshe needs. Increased lines of credit can't helpeither. Politicians can't save her. Even ourmighty armed forces can't rescue her.

I use the line, “the fastest way up is tokneel down” when closing most every articleI've written. It is also our company motto. It'sa simple truth that is too often overlooked.

America is on her knees right now and shecan easily adjust to a kneeling position. TheLord saved Daniel in the lion's den when heprayed. America can receive the sameprotection from that fatal blow that is on its wayif only we become humble enough to realizethat a mere mortal man is not the answer.

GodAlmightyis the only

answer. Right now, call out to God onbehalf of this great land. Ask Hisforgiveness for what we've allowedthis country to become, for ignoringHim and casting Him off when weneed him most. Put Him back incontrol. Admit our sins and ask forsalvation. Show Him we do believe.

Lady Liberty was founded on theprinciples and ideals of great men who putGod first in their lives. I do not believe in anyform or fashion that our forefathers gave usfreedom of speech and religion to ignore God,blaspheme His name, or desecrate our flag.Stand up for your beliefs. We have allowedprayer to be taken from high schoolgraduations. We're fighting over the right ofsoldiers to have a Cross on their graves. We'vemade it mandatory to have a prayer approvedbefore it can be said at a military funeral.

Put Jesus and prayer back into yourdaily lives. It's fine to talk about Him in thegrocery store and not be confinedto the Church building on Sundaymornings. Tell your neighbors, co-workers, family, friends, and evencomplete strangers just how greatthat God is. It's up to you to cometo the rescue. Will you answer thecall? The message has been heard.“Nation Down! Nation Down!”How long do you have to thinkabout it? What if it were your childdown? Because it is. If we don't act

now, our children will bear the curse we leavethem. Save your child. Save America. BlessGod. Give Him the honor and the glory Hedeserves. May God bless you and keep yousafe in all that you do. Remember, the fastestway up is to kneel down. Get there!!

A lifelong resident of Union Parish, Robert Lemoine isa Christian small business owner. He and his wife,Summer, oversee www.foreverandalwaysonline.comand also sell Christian merchandise at flea markets andfesitvals in north Louisiana and surrounding states.Robert's writings are most inspirational, Christian,and patriotic with occasional reflections on lessonslearned. He can be reached [email protected].

Visit our website: www.laroadtrips.com

Cows To ChristiansWalking God's Narrow Path

The day a northeast Louisiana rancher decided to sell his ranch to Godand work for Him turned out to be a very good day indeed. Author MikePrine has penned an inspirational book to help us all become more aware ofour communications with God as we make our way through each day.

For instance, last Sunday I woke up and told God I really didn't feel like goingto church today, and He said, “Well, I really didn't feel like having my Son strungup on a cross for you either, but…” Point taken!

Mike's sincerity is prevalent on every page as he relates his thoughts,conversations, and lessons learned while working his cows. This book is notonly meant to be read but also shared! Pick up your copy at BLESSINGSBOOKSTORE at 2934 Cypress Street in West Monroe (318) 323-7440 or bysending $10 ($8 for book + $2 shipping) to Mike Prine, 1582 Old Delhi Road,Pioneer, LA 71266.

Guess Who's

Reading LRT?

Caleb Fleming, age 8,West Monroe, LA

Page 28: Louisiana Road Trips September 2011 Issue

Louisiana Road Trips – 28 – www.laroadtrips.com

Minden to Celebrate the Beginning of“The Fifth Season, Fasching”

Celebrate all that is German in Minden on November 11th and12th at the “Fasching, Fifth Season Festival!” The party will begin onFriday, 11/11/11 at 11:11 am at Orleans on Main when, with state andlocal dignitaries on hand, the Mayor of Minden will present the keys tothe city to the Queen and King of Fasching. The Royalty will reignover the festivities through Christmas and Epiphany until AshWednesday and the beginning of lent. Visitors are invited to join in thefestivities at dusk on Friday evening, November 11th, as the switch isflipped to illuminate thousands of Christmas lights throughout the cityof Minden. Children are sure to enjoy a holiday fairy tale landincluding Cinderella and her handsome Prince Charming. Over 100nutcrackers in all shapes and sizes will be on display honoring Minden's GermanHeritage.

The Fasching festival will continue in Downtown Minden onSaturday from 10am until dusk, featuring German food and diverse

entertainment including the renowned Texas band, “Brave Combo.”Artisans and crafters will be set up along the sidewalks in the historicMinden Main Street for any shopper's delight and local beerenthusiasts will host a beer exhibition. Visitors may catch a shuttlefrom downtown to the Old Minden Cemetery where “ghosts” ofGerman-Americans from Minden come to life to tell their stories.Shuttles to the Germantown Colony Museum circa 1832, just north ofMinden, will also depart from downtown Minden. Children, youngand old, will enjoy ice skating at Fasching. The finale' will be fireworksat dusk. Join the folks in Minden on November 11 and 12th as we kickoff our holiday season with Fasching, Fifth Season. The lights willremain on until January 2, 2012. Minden is located just 28 miles east ofShreveport just off I-20 at exit 47. For more information go towww.holidaytrailoflights.com, www.mindenusa.com,www.mindenfasching.com, or call 318-371-4258.

A Chiropractor Can Be aFootball Player's Best Friend!

Football is right around the corner, which means rooting for our favorite team week after week inhopes of them making it to the championship and hoisting that trophy. What most fans aren't aware of iswhat happens off the field in preparation for the games. Hall of Fame wide receiver for the San Francisco49ers, Jerry Rice, placed a high value on keeping his body game ready each week. One such strategy was tohave regular check-ups and adjustments with his chiropractor to perform at his best. Professional athletesare seeking out the services of chiropractors to help keep them moving and feeling their best. If it was goodenough for the greatest wide receiver to ever play in the NFL, isn't it a good idea to have your athlete(s)checked regularly by a chiropractor? Doctors of Chiropractic search out and correct any misalignments inthe spine that can not only alter joint motion, but also negatively affect the communication between thebrain and the rest of the body. These misalignments are called “subluxations” and can often go unnoticeduntil it's too late and joint breakdown has taken a toll on the body, compromising quality of life. You mayknow a former football player that feels twice his age. What would he feel like had he seen a chiropractorsooner? You don't have to play football or any sport to see a chiropractor, you just have place a high valueon keeping you and your family's body “game ready” for each and every day!

Drs Joey & Taryn LoweryPeace of Life Chiropractic

998 HWY 80ECalhoun, LA 71225

2106 N 7th St. Ste 132West Monroe, LA 71291

318.376.3015www.peaceoflifechiropractic.com

HOME SUBSCRIPTION Enjoy LOUISIANA ROAD TRIPS for only $20/year

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Work your own schedule

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Page 29: Louisiana Road Trips September 2011 Issue

Louisiana Road Trips – 29 – www.laroadtrips.com

Northeast Louisiana Virtual ClinicAre you a physician or dentist interested

in volunteering to help people trying to helpthemselves? If so, then we are the means tohelp you do just that.

The Northeast Louisiana Virtual Clinic,Inc., (NLVC) is anonprofitorganization formedwith the purpose ofprovidingcomprehensivehealthcare services tothe low income,working uninsuredpopulation of aneight parish area innortheast Louisiana.

Prospective patients will be interviewedand screened for eligibility, and those eligiblewill be assigned to an appropriate physician toreceive medical care for one year and/ordental care for six months.

As a nurse practitioner, you can help ifyou agree to see at least one patient per month.

Currently we have more than 150 patientsenrolled.

At the beginning of each month, apatient will be linked to you toschedule an appointment at yourconvenience. NLVC has labs,radiologists, hospitals and specialists

participating in ourprogram. If thepatient needs to bereferred, you simplyfax our office and wewill do the rest. Afterthe appointment, faxus a copy of the billand we will provide you witha quarterly report of servicesdonated for your records. As

a volunteering physician, you provide as muchor as little care as you like.

We have foundthat most NLVCPatients continueseeing their physicianas a “paying” patientupon completion ofthe program. Yourparticipation is

crucial to the survival of our program. Byagreeing to see just one patient, you areimpacting the life of someone working tobetter themselves. Please visit our website atnlvconline.org and consider volunteering!

Patient Quotes“Thank God for these people, they were trulya blessing and so is the Virtual Clinic forproviding these services for working people.”“Thanks for all your help and God bless theDoctors that participate and give back to thecommunity.”“Now I can smile with confidence. You are aGod send!”

Page 30: Louisiana Road Trips September 2011 Issue

Fishing in a DroughtHello Anglers

and outdoor sportslovers. We continue togo fishing even withair temps through theroof and water levels

through the floor. My favorite fishing hole issmaller but there is still approximately150,000 acres of water on Toledo compared tothe normal 185,000 acres and that's enoughwater to catch a fish. You know things aretough when a tropical storm moves throughthe Gulf and comes ashore and dumps lessthan an inch of rain. Unbelievable!

Anglers, tournament planners,guides, lake area businesses andlake officials are all trying to dealwith the situation and praying forrain. If we got a broad coverage of10 inches today, I think the lake may rise byonly 2-3 feet with the first few inches soakedup with virtually no run-off. But a 2-3 footrise would be a huge relief and get us near165' msl which is where we were October2010.

Current Boat Ramps Open: We arecompiling a list on our website of boat rampsthat boaters and anglers are using on a dailybasis. South Toledo: Cypress Bend, Six Mile,Big Bass, Buck Eye, Toledo Bend Resort andSRA # 7 at the dam. Mid lake: Holly Park(Patroon), Driftwood, Tranquility Bay,Pendleton Bridge (TX side). North Toledo:Huxley Bay, Haley's Ferry(Bayou Seipe) andEast Hamilton. If you are aware of other openramps please e-mail us so we will add to thelist. Most of these open ramps require cautionwhen launching. Also, unless you know thearea, I suggest to idle out until you get inmain boat run or Sabine River channel.

Lake Conditions: As the lake drops to"never before seen levels", I find myself in newterritory. I felt confident navigating the southern1/3 of the lake with levels down to 162.2 wherethe levels dropped in 2006 and we had noproblems running the lake. However, the lakelevel currentlyis 161.80' andfalling. If youarefishing/boatingfrom PendletonBridge to thenorth, the safest

run is in the oldSabine Riverbed which iseasy to followwith electronics/mapping to locate the river.Once you find it, it's easy to navigate as theopening through the timber is easy to see.Generating at the dam continued at the samepace for months with one unit running 2.5 hrsabout 4 times per week. Water clarity all overthe lake is clear to very clear.

Fishing Report / Bass: We continue to havesuccess on several patterns and the shallowgrass bite continues to work well, especiallyuntil mid-morning. We are working the shallowgrass early using topwater poppers and the bestbait this week is a Pro Pop by Bill Norman. ThePro Pop is a 3/8oz. bait that throws like a rock. Iam using it on 15 lb test Berkley Big Game withtop colors being Tennessee Ghost andblack/chrome. Later in the mornings we have

been finding some schooling bass and thePro Pop also worked well on schoolies.This lure has super hooks as well as a veryenticing and highly visible fabric tail thatgives a great profile in the water. Bass willkill it.

From daylight until latemorning we continue to catchbass on a Light weighted Texasrig as well as a light-weightedCarolina rig. On our Texas rigswe are using Berkley's newHavoc Series Bottom Hopperin watermelon red,watermelon smoke candy andwatermelon. On our lightCarolina rigs (1/8 to 1/4 oz)we are using Stanley's Itza Bugand Wedge Hog as well asBerkley's Bottom Hopper. Onour deeper TX rigs andCarolina rigs we are using 1/2and 3/4 oz weights with

Berkley Power Worms in red bug, plumand w.m. candy.

On all of our TX and C. rigs we areusing Berkley 100% Fluorocarbon (clear)line in 15 and 17 lb test with 3/0, 4/0 and5/0 Daiichi and XPoint off-set wormhooks. We continue to throw Norman'sDLN and DD22 crankbaits with successtargeting 8-14 ft with DLNs and 12-25 withDD22s. Shad patterns are our bestproducers on crankbaits. Schooling basshave been good this week and seemwilling to hit your lure.

Joe Joslin is a syndicated outdoor columnist,tournament angler and pro guide on Toledo and SamRayburn. Contact him at 337-463-3848 [email protected] orwww.joejoslinoutdoors.com.

MY FAVORITE FISHING HOLE By Pro Angler, Joe Joslin

One of many closed boat ramps on Toledo Lake.

Louisiana Road Trips – 30 – www.laroadtrips.com

That's enoughwater to catch

a fish.

Page 31: Louisiana Road Trips September 2011 Issue

Louisiana Road Trips – 31 – www.laroadtrips.com

Page 32: Louisiana Road Trips September 2011 Issue

Louisiana Road Trips – 32 – www.laroadtrips.com