Counters & Cats There are many good reasons why your cat should stay off the counter. Cats spend a fair amount of time each day in their litter box, scratching around and covering up their waste. Although they frequently "wash" their paws with their tongues, traces of urine and feces may remain on their paws to be deposited on your countertops in molecular concentrations. Not a great thought if you are about to prepare food. To keep kitty where he belongs, make sure they have other places such as a climbing frame position by a window to divert some attention from counters. Keep the counters clean and no food items lying around. Cats don't like certain smells so use a countertop cleaner with a citrus odor. Other ideas include training your cat to jump down to the cue word "off". Various booby traps help deter cats from counter surfing. Some include putting cling film over the countertop, making a shallow tray out of aluminum foil and filling it with water, or various springing devices (upside-down mousetraps or proprietary plastic jumping frogs). Sounding an air horn at exactly the moment the cat's feet touch the countertop. You should hide when doing this, making the cat think the counter made the noise, not you. It's worth the trouble to keep your cat off the counter.
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Talkin’ It Up! August is a transitional time of year as we take a well-earned break before the busy seasons ahead. Let's see...there's the fall festival season, the festive holiday season, and of course, hunting season. With this in mind, we're featuring a sport rich in Louisiana culture alligator hunting. Noel Kinler, Alligator Program Manager with LA Wildlife & Fisheries, was kind enough to share some great information for this article. After reading it, you'll know enough alligator trivia to impress just about anybody! As you sit in the shade this month perusing this issue, preferably indoors with cold air and a tall glass of iced tea, we're going to take you on a few out-ofstate road trips to places like Chattanooga, Tennessee and then for a drive along the East Coast before we cross the ocean to read about the best of the Mediterranean. As expected, we always look forward to returning home to Louisiana for the best entertainment, food, and stories. From the Gulf Coast to the Louisiana state lines and every stop between, there's just no better place to pass a good time. Enjoy these last sultry days and let's stay in touch.
Mona Mona L. Hayden, Editor monalh@bellsouth.net (318) 547-1221
ROAD TRIPS "Celebrating country living and city happenings!"
august ARTS & CRAFTSMEN 18
Darrell Chitty, Artist by Carolyn Files
BOOK REVIEW 8
Dancing on Glass by Deborah Burst
BUSINESS REVIEW 2 24
Scott’s Seafood
Alligator Hunting Season by Mona L. Hayden
13
My Favorite Fishing Hole by Joe Joslin Toledo Near Record Low Water Levels A Little of This & That by Johnny Wink Hunter Education Safety Course by Sonny Harrington
A Life of Trial…and Error by Dennis Stewart Coyotes and Conway All Things Southern by Shellie Tomlinson Always Be Prepared For An Accident Runnin’ the Roads by Barbara Sharik The Majority Doesn’t Always Rule
10 11 13 16 17 19 26
Talkin’ It Up! Going Native by Larry Brock Opportunity Through Adversity Backtalk Louisiana Lagniappe – Remember When August Calendar of Events Museum Fundraiser Earning A Dollar by Robert Lemoine Louisiana Lagniappe Answers Starr Homeplace by Beau Johnston
RECIPES
FESTIVALS & ENTERTAINMENT 27 27
23
3 6
7-8
9
4
MONTHLY TIDBITS
Counters & Cats
DELTA OUTDOORS
18 19
HUMOR 12
Very New Orleans by Diana Hollingsworth Gessler
10
contents
16
Recipes by Stacy Thornton
ROAD TRIPS 5
On the Scene – by Deborah Burst Hottest NOLA Events in August
12 14
Show & Shine Car & Bike Show Living Garden Fountain
Insta-Gator Ranch and Hatchery by John Price Nothing Like NOLA by Su Stella Travel Adventure by Dianne Newcomer La Dolce Vita!
17
HISTORICAL 11
The Accidental Deaths of Deputy Sheriffs Willis and Edwards by Lora Peppers
15
Louisiana in the Civil War by Terry L. Jones
Beds & Beignets by Mary White A Donaldsonville Revival 20-21 The Charm of Chattanooga by Mona L. Hayden
25
Explore the New England Coast! by Lee Estes
The cover photographs of alligators were provided by Sonny Harrington and taken in Tensas Parish. Louisiana Road Trips
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A LIFE OF TRIAL…AND ERROR
Coyotes and Conway By Dennis Stewart One of the major things I have always hated about my life is spending July and August in Louisiana where it is hot, hot, hot and sweaty. When I got out of law school 34 years ago, I figured by now I would be rich, rich, rich, and would instead be vacationing in Alaska or Wyoming. Sadly, things didn't turn out like I planned. Four ex-wives may have had something to do with that. It was just recently, 17 years after my last divorce, that my net worth finally rose above zero for the first time. Being a glass-half-full kind of guy, I try to look on the bright side and find something good about spending dog days in Louisiana. The best thing I've found so far is all the hunting shows on satellite TV start showing new episodes the first week of July so I can watch Michael Waddell and Jim Shockey and Angie and Scott Denny of Life at Table Mountain hunt antelope and mule deer and black bears out West, while the air conditioner shoots cold air up my underwear as I lay back in my recliner and sip Canada Dry Ginger Ale on ice. One of my favorite shows is Predator Quest with Les Johnson as he sits on the hillsides out West and blows a predator call that sounds like a dying rabbit and the coyotes come running and Les takes them down. On my little 20 acre place near Holly Ridge I have a bunch of coyotes that start howling around 4:30 every afternoon when the train rumbles by, blowing its whistle. The whistle drives the coyotes crazy so back in March with deer and duck season over, I took my dying rabbit predator call, sat in one of my deer stands, and imitated a dying rabbit (not physically but with the call). Sure enough, about ten minutes later this big coyote came running toward me, and then stopped broadside about 30 yards away, its eyes searching the thicket for the dying rabbit. I popped him behind the shoulder with my little Savage rifle and he dropped without even a yelp. He wasn't the first coyote I have ever killed, but he was the first predator I have ever called up, so I took him to my taxidermist for mounting.
I killed my first coyote several years ago while I was dove hunting in Franklin Parish. I had been sitting by an old corn field and had not seen a dove all afternoon. Then I heard something coming toward me and a few seconds later a small coyote popped out about 20 yards away. Since I hadn't pulled the trigger yet that day, that ole coyote was extremely unlucky. I shot it with my 12 gauge, using number 7 1/2s. I had it mounted, too. Switching gears, my oldest grandson had a birthday in mid July but this year his Dad, a youth minister, was going to Czechoslovakia in mid-July so his birthday party was moved up to July 4th weekend. I drove up to Conway, Arkansas where they live, for the birthday party, but I got there a little early and visited some of the flea markets in Conway first. If you like flea markets, you will love Conway, Arkansas. They have many great flea markets there and some of them carry merchandise that appeals to hunters and fishermen. On this trip, I found the best flea market ever Arkansas Peddlers. It's on the four-lane highway that goes from Conway toward Clinton, the Buffalo River, and Mountain View. When I walked in the front door, I saw mounted coyotes and a full body mounted black bear. The bear was $2,000, but I wouldn't have bought it anyway because I have plenty of mounted animals that I personally took, including two bear skin rugs from bears I took in Idaho and Wyoming. They also had a great looking moose head, but it wasn't for sale. I did buy an old mounted fish which I think is a pike, mainly because it was so big and it would look way cool in my recreation room, and because I don't presently have someone telling me how stupid I am for paying $20 for an old mounted fish. Women just don't understand the potential income possibilities when you buy stuff like that. For instance, if the economy gets any tougher, I can always charge women who want a Polaroid photo of themselves posing on one of my bear skin rugs. I'm convinced it could happen.
I took my dying rabbit predator call, sat in one of my deer stands, and imitated a dying rabbit.
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PUBLISHER LRT Publications
______________________
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Mona L. Hayden
monalh@bellsouth.net (318) 547-1221
OUR GUARDIAN ANGEL Debbie Hamilton Pope June 14, 1952-August 24, 2008
SALES Mona L. Hayden (318) 547-1221 Sunny Meriwether (318) 547-8126
Website www.la-road-trips.com
www.twitter.com/louisianaroadtrips www.facebook.com/louisianaroadtrips
Louisiana Road Trips magazine is published monthly to promote, inform, and entertain the residents of Louisiana. It is distributed FREE; however, home delivery is available. This magazine will reach approximately 56,000 individuals. Submission of articles and photos are always welcome but may be limited to availability of space and edited for content. Copyright 2011 with all rights reserved. Reproduction of any material appearing within this publication is prohibited without written permission of the Publishers. The opinions expressed in Louisiana Road Trips magazine are those of the authors or columnists and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products or services herein. “Louisiana Road Trips” magazine retains the right to refuse any advertisement.
ROAD TRIPS P. O. Box 2452 West Monroe, LA 71294 (318) 547-1221
Dennis Stewart grew up in northeast Louisiana, graduated from La Tech and LSU Law School. After having taught law at ULM and working as an Assistant District Attorney, Dennis is now a Hearing Officer in Rayville. He loves to hunt, fish, read, write, and shop on eBay.
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Insta-Gator Ranch and Hatchery An Exciting Adventure (Rain or Shine) By John Price Touch'em, hold'em, feed'em. You can even catch'em in our touch pool. Yes, we are talking about real live alligators! At InstaGator Ranch & Hatchery in Covington, you can do all this even hold an egg while it hatches in your hand. You can take an all day safari trip out into the marsh to release gators or go on a hunt for the big Bull Gators in September. InstaGator Ranch is the only licensed alligator ranch in Louisiana that is open to the public with guided tours and it's right here on the Northshore in Covington. During the 1960's and 70's, the LA Wildlife & Fisheries through extensive studies, determined that alligators were prey to many animals. Raccoons, snakes, birds, fish and even bull frogs eat alligator eggs or babies. These findings supported the development of the Alligator Ranching Program which is designed to help conserve the American Alligator and preserve our Louisiana wetlands. Today there are over fifty ranchers in Louisiana and they have been known to house over 500,000 alligators on their ranches. That's more alligators than could be found in the entire state in the late 1960's. In the wild an alligator lays 30 to 40 eggs at a time, but only 6 to 8 percent of hatchlings survive to a length of 4 feet. An alligator grows about a foot a year in its natural habitat, so it takes approximately 4 years to reach 4 feet. At Insta-Gator Ranch, alligator eggs harvested from nests in the marshes of Louisiana are incubated, hatched, and raised to 4 feet in just 1 year. Once they reach 4 feet, 12% (nearly twice as many as would have survived if left alone) are released back into the marsh. Needless to say,
nothing eats a 4 foot alligator other than larger alligators or man. This program has been so successful that the release program has been reduced from 17% to 14% in 1999 and reduced again to 12% in 2007. An alligator population growth from 300,000
in 1963 to nearly 3,000,000 in 2011, makes this possibly the most successful program of protection for any animal on earth. When Insta-Gator Ranch and Hatchery began business in 1989 our primary interest was in raising alligators for return and skin sales. In the summer of 2001, Insta-Gator Ranch opened its doors to visitors looking for an exciting adventure. To date, tens of thousands of customers have enjoyed that adventure, even in rain. Upon visiting the Ranch, you'll be immediately impressed with the ultra-light airplane and air boat used in harvesting eggs from the marsh. During the 1 1/2 hour tour, your guide will take you to stations presenting
Louisiana Road Trips
mesmerizing information and intriguing facts about Louisiana's prehistoric beast. Year round, you'll see an alligator's nest full of eggs. A video presentation showing the rancher harvesting the alligator eggs, while the momma gator tries to defend her nest, is even more impressive. In August, you can even hatch a baby alligator in your hand! Sure they may bite, but those cute little babies can't hurt you‌ much. Walking on protected walkways through the InstaGator barns, you'll see alligators of varying ages swimming above and below the surface of crystal clear water, ranging from 12 inches to 7 feet, and growing. Here is your opportunity to feed the alligators and even witness the capture of a 4 foot alligator and taping of its mouth so you can touch, hold and even take a picture with this incredible creature. Your guide will show you the alligator's clear 3rd eyelid and even let you whisper in its ear. Last but not least, you'll have the opportunity to snap up alligators while they swim by at our catch pool. This option will add 10 - 15
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minutes to your tour and Memories of a Lifetime. Insta-Gator Ranch & Hatchery is located at 23440 Lowe Davis Road in Covington, LA. All tours are guided and reservations are recommended. Basic tour prices are $16 for adults, $10 for children 12 and under, and $14 for seniors over 62. There are group rates for school, summer camp and church groups. For more information, InstaGatorRanch.com offers you the opportunity to learn more about the ranch by viewing a virtual tour movie. You can also purchase belts, wallets and other fine leather products on site or at www.Insta-GatorRanch.com. For tour availability, call Insta-Gator at (985) 892-3669 or toll free (888) 448-1560.
GOING NATIVE
By Larry Brock
Opportunity Through Adversity Sun! Wind! Heat! Drought! Trapped in a stagnant weather pattern. Cloudless days under a relentless sun. Wilted plants. Weeks between significant rainfalls. Soils sucked dry by severe drought. Stressed crops and landscapes. It's easy to get discouraged…but this too shall pass. [Note: As I write this in mid-July, we are getting some much needed rain.] Adversity brings opportunity. An often repeated alternative is to incorporate native plants in the home landscape as they have a proven ability to survive weather extremes. They're adapted to local soils, local climate, and they require less irrigation. For example, July roadsides continued to blossom in spite of the drought - false dandelions, black-eyed Susan, rose-mallows, sensitive plants. Fencerows still bloomed with elderberry, honeysuckle and trumpet creeper…meadows with wildflowers like chicory, clover, cut-leaf coneflower, Mexican petunia, purple coneflower and spiderwort. All without human intervention.
A common landscape design is one that features shrubs around the foundation of a home, a few trees scattered across the yard, and everywhere else mowed lawn. It's neat, open and easy to maintain. My “naturalized” landscape has mowed lawns too but it gets woollier after that. My lawns are surrounded by walls of tall trees, banks of dense shrubs, thickets of climbing vines, and weedy strips loosely dubbed meadows. They are punctuated with beds of blooming annuals, perennials and seasonal bulbs. Every year my few acres get taller and thicker, more colorful and more abundant. Granted, this approach wouldn't fit every landscaping taste but in stressful times like these it's an oasis of blooming plants, a haven for wildlife. For example, July's woody plants still in bloom included althea, buddleia, crepe myrtle, lantana and magnolias. Flowering herbaceous plants included cannas, cleome, crinum lily, crocosmia, cypress vine, daylily, dianthus, four o'clock, impatiens, lion's ear, marigold, Mexican honeysuckle, milkweed, oriental lily, periwinkle, sages, salvias, summer phlox, Turk's cap, yarrow and zinnia. From A to Z, an alphabet of color in the summerscape.
More plants draw more insects that draw more wildlife.
Blooms are more than just a pretty design element. They feed hummingbirds and insects that in turn pollinate plants that recycle the air we all breathe. Those same insects are sources of food for other insects, arthropods, reptiles, birds and small mammals. So, more plants draw more insects that draw more wildlife. That's a thriving ecosystem! During this drought, my patio bird-bath has been a magnet for backyard birds - colorful orioles, cardinals and mockers to bathe; sparrows, doves and jays to drink. Saucy wrens too, with their songs and antics. Meanwhile, mockers stripped pokeweed of every ripe berry. Did you notice the poke? First their long drooping stems were white with blooms then green with new berries then deep purple with ripe berries. After the berries were gone, bright red stems were exposed. Just one brief stroke of Nature's paint brush on summer's broad canvas! Did you know that dirt-daubers sting spiders and fill their mud nests with the paralyzed beasties to feed their young? Black pipe-organ daubers build long parallel tubes in which to put spiders and lay their eggs. Black and yellow daubers construct fist-sized globular nests containing several cells. Iridescent blue daubers with the nervous wings specialize in black widow spiders and usurp the nests of black and yellow daubers. Adult daubers feed on flower nectar and are not aggressive toward humans. Talk about beneficial insects! To paraphrase an old standard - Buffalo gnats, they've gone home at last, gone home at last, gone home at last; Buffalo gnats won't come out tonight, to bite any more this year. Over the meadow, scores of dragonflies dance in the afternoon sun - round and round they flit and fly, back and forth up in the sky. Spicebush swallowtails are more frequent - blacks, giants and tigers too. Fluttering, flying, reminding me of Cat Steven's Oh Very Young lyrics: only dancing on this earth for a short while… you won't last forever… you will vanish away. “To cherish what remains of the Earth and to foster its renewal is our only legitimate hope of survival” ~ Wendell Berry. Consider Going Native to improve our prospects. A life-long resident of Lake Providence, Larry Brock was inspired by his grandfather’s passion for gardening and his own desire to recover the horticultural uniqueness of this region. Larry is drawn to the relationships between plants, birds, insects and soil and can be found puttering outdoors in his yard most any time, weather permitting.
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LEAD ARTICLE
Photo by Sonny Harrington
By Mona L. Hayden with assistance from Louisiana Department Wildlife & Fisheries alligator egg harvest program, harvested. However, the severe For everything there is a economic recession saw a severely represents a level of population season - including alligators! utilization currently unparalleled repressed price for skins.” Hunters in Louisiana are gearing in the world of crocodilian Explaining how the commercial up for 30 days of alligator management. harvest is driven by the value of hunting beginning August 31, The sustained use the gators to be harvested, Noel 2011 for the East zone continues, “During 2007-2008, the management program was (southeastern section of the state) implemented to manage and harvest included about 35,000 and September 7, 2011 for the conserve alligators as part of the wild alligators each year but with West Zone (all of north, central, state's wetland ecosystem, the recession in 2009, demand and southwestern LA). This hunt dropped precipitously. 24,427 tags provide benefits to the species, its will target the adult male and habitat and other species of fish were issued but only 9,141 gators immature segments of the and wildlife associated with alligator population. alligators, and to provide a Louisiana is home to significant economic boost almost 2million alligators to landowners found in ponds, lakes, (approximately 81% of canals, bayous, rivers, coastal habitats are swamps, and especially privately owned), and coastal marshes. Alligator gator hunters and farmers farms throughout the state who lease land. with 57 licensed farmers A resident alligator account for an additional hunting licenses cost $25 376,493 alligators, according that includes tags. Lottery were harvested. In 2010, 31,881 to farm inventory as of December alligator hunters may be required tags were issued and 26,478 2010. to pay a set fee per alligator tag gators harvested. We envision a Noel Kinler, Alligator issued in lieu of payments continued and gradual recovery Program Manager for Louisiana normally made to the Department Wildlife & Fisheries, states, “From for price, quantity, and demand for the value of alligators for our alligators.” 1962-1971, alligators were totally harvested. Hunters not possessing Louisiana Department of protected but the season reopened or having permission to harvest Wildlife & Fisheries assesses the in 1972, reflecting an expanding alligators on private lands or habitat quantity and quality each alligator population throughout public lands/lakes can harvest year to ensure the number of all wetland habitats in the state. alligators as an alligator sport gators harvested so as not to The harvest has continued to hunter while accompanied by a grow over time and we have seen negatively impact any particular guide. location. This quota system significant recovery of the coastal Alligator hunters apply for represents an allowable wild habitats from the devastating tags prior to the season. The hurricanes in 2005 and 2008. Since alligator harvest that, combined license application form contains with the state authorized wild 1972, 810,000 alligators have been
Photo by Sonny Harrington
Alligator Hunting Season hunter information, a legal description and map of the property to be hunted, and a landowner's signature granting permission for the hunter to harvest alligators on the property. LWF personnel then enter each applied property into a GIS computer system which assesses property acreage by habitat type and makes appropriate tag allocations to determine the maximum number of gators to be harvested. Tags can only be used on the property indicated on the hunter's license. Louisiana Wildlife & Fisheries reports that hunters currently harvest over 28,000 wild alligators and farmers harvest over 280,000 farm-raised alligators annually. Raw meat and hide values are estimated at over $11 million for the wild harvest and over $46 million for the farm harvest. (These values consist of raw meat and hides only and are not reflective of hide values after tanning and product manufacturing, values associated with jobs, tourism, economy, etc. or egg values.) The majority of the wild alligators are harvested by the continued on next page > > >
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BOOK REVIEW
Very New Orleans Written and Illustrated by Diana Hollingsworth Gessler
In Very New Orleans, this versatile artist has beautifully translated the charm and authenticity of one of the most unique and exciting cities in the world into sketches, watercolors, and fascinating trivia. As a Louisiana native and book aficionado, I found myself lingering over each page - several times. Tidbits of history, culture, cuisine and more information that you'll ever know about New Orleans are gracefully depicted in a most alluring style. For instance, did you know that the term 'The Big Easy' came from a 1900s dance hall and that Vieux Carre means 'Old Square', as in The French Quarter? From plantations and recipes to folktales and voodoo, nothing is amiss here. The publisher donates a portion of the proceeds to Hurricane Katrina relief organizations so if you live in or just love New Orleans, there's no better place to learn so much than between the covers of this captivating book. You'll want one for yourself and several to pass along. Ask for this regional book at your favorite bookstore or find it at all major online stores.
Charming efficient home (1993) on 4+/- VERY SECLUDED acres off Forty Oaks Farm Road in West Monroe. George Welch/Good Hope school district, great neighborhood. Lots of extras including barn with concrete floor, above ground pool, 600sf of decks, greenhouse, beautiful mature landscaping with water feature. Backs up to finger of Northwood 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 for your money! $239,000
Contact: monalh@bellsouth.net or (318) 547-1221
Alligator Hunting Season continued fishing method with baited hooks suspended above the water. Primarily night feeders, alligators take the bait according to size. The larger mature gators can reach higher baits while the smaller gators feed off the baits placed lower to the water surface. They should be immediately tagged and transported to licensed facilities which process alligators for their meat, hides and other commercially valuable parts. Many raw Louisiana skins eventually go to Italy, France and Singapore for tanning and product manufacturing. The largest reptile in America, male gators can reach 13' in length and weigh in at 500+ pounds while females reach 9' and can weigh 200+ pounds. They mate during the spring with females laying an average of 35 eggs at a time. Hatching begins after about 65 days with the baby gators measuring 8-12 inches long at birth. Young alligators feed off insects, crawfish, small fish, and frogs, gradually including larger animals such as rats, crabs, larger fish and frogs, and small birds. Once they've reached full maturity, their diet includes even larger animals such as muskrats, nutria, beaver, raccoons, large birds and fish, snakes, turtles, deer, etc. Alligators and hunting are an important part of Louisiana culture and when pursued responsibly, can be a great adventure for everyone involved. Be sure to share your alligator hunting experiences and photographs on Facebook/LouisianaRoadTrips or email monalh@bellsouth.net. The best ones will be featured on our website.
Visit our website: http://www.la-road-trips.com/ Louisiana Road Trips
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On the Scene
Hottest NOLA Events in August By Deborah Burst
Photo by Tyler Cummings
Red Dress Run, August 13, 12:30 till… Only New Orleans can pull off a red hot party in the middle of steamy August. The Red Dress Run (RDR), held this year on August 13, is a wild costume party, said to be the largest in the world and last year raised $200,000 for 50 nonprofits in the New Orleans area. It's a sea of red: men and women, gay and straight, blinding pale skin with crimson colored sunburns and some really bad accessorizing. Sponsored by the New Orleans Hash House Harriers, a passionate running group who likes to drink beer in what they say is “a drinking club with a running problem,” runners/drinkers come from across the gulf coast, east coast and even stretching to Canada. Besides the drinking and eating, enjoy hot babes in scantily clad red dresses, and well, some hot dudes in scantily clad red dresses too, if that's your thing. It's basically a drunken block-party with registration at 9am and the race starting at 12:30 with red-dressers jogging, walking and crawling from the staging area (to be announced) throughout the French Quarter. Barbeque and more than 250 kegs of beer along with pit stops at sponsored bars keep the crew hydrated. The party ends where it all began with live music, food, and of course more beer. You don't need to be a Hasher member to join the run. And if you don't have a dress, check in with the Hash House guys and they'll suit you up. Last year the number climbed to 8,000 runners. Refer to the New Orleans Hash House Harrier website for registration details. Registration includes RDR Swag, beer, barbeque, beer, live music, and more beer. www.nolareddress.tumblr.com, www.neworleanshash.com Dirty Linen Night, August 13, 69pm... A spoof on the more traditional White Linen Night held the weekend before; Dirty Linen Night welcomes the public to Royal Street for an open air art show. Stroll through one of the most picturesque and romantic streets in New Orleans draped with iron-lace balconies and blocks of vintage art, antique and photography galleries. Enjoy live music and the usual vivacious street performers on the sidewalks with live entertainment in nearby Dutch Alley. In keeping with the theme, some of the galleries will be serving complimentary dirty martinis and dirty rice. The Royal House Oyster Bar, a Creole cuisine restaurant, and exclusive sponsor of the 2011 Dirty Linen Night will host the official after-party featuring complimentary dirty martinis and hors d'oeuvres, a cash, bar, door prizes and live entertainment. Royal House Oyster Bar, 441 Royal Street, New Orleans, LA (at the corner of Royal and St. Louis Streets) 504-528-2601, www.royalhouserestaurant.com Deborah Burst, freelance writer and photographer, lives and writes in the piney woods of Mandeville. After a 30-year stint in banking, she graduated from Tulane in 2003. Her work has appeared in regional, national, and international publications. A personal translator blessed with an emotional art form, Deb discovers the food, culture, and people along the backroads each month in Louisiana Road Trips.
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BOOK REVIEW
Dancing on Glass By Deborah Burst
You never know when the moment will strike: watching the blur of yellow windows on a long stretch of highway, the mind wanders playing out the people, town and families…then the drama and suddenly you have a story. Fill in the blanks with familiar names and places, and it all becomes hauntingly real. Pamela Binnings Ewen has crafted another masterpiece that explores real-life dilemmas deep inside historical fiction. The seed of Dancing on Glass was sown from an evening ritual with husband Jimmy sitting on their back deck overlooking a golf course and cypress swamp. During the twilight hour just as the birds began to roost, every evening a white egret would welcome Pam and Jimmy to her home. They named her Iris and soon she introduced her beau and offspring. Infatuated with Iris and the secrets of the cypress forest, a story was born. Set in New Orleans from 1974-1977 women were entering a new frontier previously dominated by men. Many learned the hard way that success had its consequences. Amalise Catoir left the comforts of her small town home to the big city of New Orleans. Finishing up her law degree at Tulane University, she worked and lived in the French Quarter enamored with its sultry and whimsical flair. A kind-hearted and trusting person on the brink of a major career, she was perfect prey for a charming and magnetic artist, Phillip Sharp.
Dancing on Glass will be released August 1st, with Pam and Jimmy doing a book tour in bookstores along the East Coast and throughout Louisiana and East Texas. Refer to www.pamelaewen.com for a full schedule. And don't miss the sequel of Dancing on Glass. Set in New Orleans, Chasing the Wind will feature the continuing saga of Amalise and Jude, her childhood friend and confident. Pre-press headliners: A mysterious child with a forgotten past. Love, yearning and envy. A razzle-dazzle financial wizard building a resort hotel in the city of New Orleans. When they collideanything can happen!
He was a conniving man, a chameleon sucking the life out of Amalise weaving his cocoon of lies separating her from friends and family. The scenes are so real you hear the street side musicians, crave the coffee and beignets and smell the sweet olive in Jackson Square. Like a mini guidebook, follow the life of Amalise inside Café Pontalba (corner of St. Peter and Chartres) where she waited tables or step inside St. Louis Cathedral where she prayed for redemption. Ewen took care in describing New Orleans in the mid 70s with proper names and vivid descriptions such as Baileys, a popular restaurant for business lunches in the Roosevelt hotel. Many of the bars and restaurants are at the same location but now with different names. Ewen's poetic prose fits perfectly with the vintage backdrop: Amalise loved life here…she loved the pink rumbling old brick of the low buildings, and the boxy
Creole cottages right on the street with their cool, shaded courtyards secreted inside, and she loved the cafes, like the Napoleon House, where the decrepit phonograph played whatever record one played---the changer slamming them down on the turn-table one at a time with a clunk and a bang. Said Amalise, “It's the music of the Quarter that gets inside you…the wind chimes, foghorns, soul music, blues, jazz, the honky-tonk that fills the air and when you breath it in, it becomes a part of you, like oxygen.” Pressured by Phillip, Amalise makes a rash decision to marry him. The more her law career blossoms, the more Phillip stalks his prey. A real page turner, Dancing on Glass brings to life a dilemma that still haunts women today, but how will Amalise survive this fatal choice? What would you do when all seems hopeless and you find yourself forever dancing on shattered glass?
K C BA K L A T
I love this newspaper!!! I enjoyed looking at it online and was wondering where can I pickup an actual copy of the printed edition. Please let me know where I can pick one up. Thank you and keep the road trip ideas coming! ~Jimmy N., Metairie, LA
We were coming home from Dad's Father's Day meal at Jim Bowie's Relay Station with several family members piled in the SUV (for some reason, we were a little more cramped coming home than going… must have been all that delicious food we had indulged in). Anyway, Dad had picked up the May edition and... I read some articles out loud for travel entertainment and we all laughed until we cried when reading What Happened to Disco? by Johnny Wink....Hilarious! Anyway, just wanted you to know wonderful memories were made on our "road trip" home thanks to you!! ~Melinda E., Jena, LA I'm so glad you reported on the Cypress Bend Resort in Many. Me and my husband sneak off for a long weekend every couple months and always end up there. The hotel is just beautiful, the food is really good, and for us there's no better place to relax and spend some quality time together. Neither of us play golf but it's fun to just drive a cart around and take in the view. ~Belinda R., Caldwell Parish Louisiana Road Trips
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Officer Down Part Two:
The Accidental Deaths of Deputy Sheriffs Willis and Edwards By Lora Peppers and split up into two groups. become a close student of medicine, the remaining members of the Deputy Willis went with one which profession he would have posse and taken to his father's group and Deputy J.W. Edwards residence in Monroe. Drs. adorned had he lived longer.” went with the other. Gladden and Forsythe (later Neither man has a The men had been Mayor Forsythe) were summoned headstone that I have found. searching all day for Abrahams to Willis' bedside. Their names are not on the with no luck. Both parties Unsuccessfulefforts were made to Officer Down Memorial and up decided to head back to the try and remove the bullets from until now, no mentions of their section house. By this time, dusk his side and chest. After lingering deaths have ever been found. had fallen and it was hard to in agony for two weeks, on June Not even the Ouachita Parish see. Edwards and his posse 13, 1895, Deputy Samuel Baxter Sheriff's Department knows of stumbled across Willis and his Willis died of peritonitis that had their existence. Their deaths, men and, thinking Willis was set into his wounds. He was added to those of Officer Searcy Abrahams, cried “Hold up your thirty-four years old. and Sheriff Wisner, now bring to hands!” He then fired on Willis No information on Deputy a total of four men lost in the twice with a 38 Smith and J.W. Edwards remains, other line of duty in that department's Wesson. One shot hit Willis in than he was originally from history. Let's hope they and the right chest and another in Mississippi. More information their service in the line of duty the left hip. Willis then thought was found however, on his will never be forgotten again. Edwards was Abrahams. He colleague, Deputy Willis. When Lora Peppers, a Monroe native, raised his weapon and fired at he died, the Richland Beacongrew up in Bastrop and graduated Edwards, killing him instantly. News posted an article about from ULM. Her love of history Deputy J.W. him that had appeared in the dates back to childhood when one of Edwards left Monroe Bulletin. They stated that her favorite activities was visiting behind a he was the son of Judge A. local cemeteries to examine wife and Willis, born in Claiborne Parish headstones. She also loves to travel, child. in 1860 to two of the finest the Great Smoky Mountains Upon families in that area. After 1. Hunting and fishing in Louisiana are National Park being her favorite hearing moving to Ouachita, Willis was longstanding traditions for what? place on Earth. Her job as a that he very politically active. He served 2. What rodent is considered a nuisance because it genealogist and historian has given had killed as Deputy under Sheriffs destroys coastal wetlands? her the opportunity to lead many Edwards, McGuire, Theobalds and Garrett 3. How many crawfish are caught during the lectures and author several books. Deputy Willis and had their implicit crawfishing season which lasts throughout She can be reached by e-mail at exclaimed, “My confidence. About his character, the year? loradpeppers@hotmail.com. 4. Alligator hunting season lasts how God, Edwards, the Bulletin had this to say: “He long? was resolute, plucky, intelligent and I am sorry it 5. Why are snakes an important considerate in the was you I component of the ecosystem? discharge of his duty. shot!” Willis 6. What are the chief enemies of But he had tired of was loaded on snakes? official life and had a handcar by 7. What are shooting hours during deer season? 8. Trapped animals should be released how far from the trap site to prevent their return? 9. In 1970, the LA Legislature created what system to preserve, protect, develop, reclaim, and enhance the wilderness qualities, scenic beauties, and ecological regimes of Memphis company adding certain free-flowing Louisiana streams? team members 10. How many miles of water are included in the LA Natural and Scenic Rivers System? to promote ship-to-door BONUS QUESTION: What famous author briefly lived in food business. Delhi as a child and later had a character in his book, “The Testament”, commit suicide by Must have computer. jumping off a bridge in Delhi?
In the March issue, I brought you the story of the shooting death of Officer Haynie, Monroe's first policeman killed in the line of duty. It turns out that a little over a year after Haynie's death, two more would fall in the line of duty and this time, it was a tragic accident. On May 29, 1895, around 9pm, a reporter with the Monroe Herald newspaper received a telephone call to come quickly to the Houston Central Depot downtown. Two men had been shot. When he got to the depot, he found Deputy Sheriff Baxter Willis lying on a handcar. The story that unknown reporter would write sent shockwaves in the Parish. It seems Mr. Willis and a posse was searching for a man named Abrahams who had fired into a freight train near Swartz several nights before. The group arrived at the Spring Hill section, eleven miles north of Monroe
ouisiana Remember When . . .
SIGNIFICANT INCOME POTENTIAL Full Time / Part Time
Email:
Answers on next page 19
great.income@yahoo.com Louisiana Road Trips
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ALL THINGS SOUTHERN
By Shellie Tomlinson
Always Be Prepared For An Accident Hello folks, and welcome back to the porch! There's nothing I'd enjoy more than a little down time with some friends. Let's chat...~smile~ I can no longer ignore the obvious. Mama's lectures, I mean gentle teachings have finally taken. I know this because I've begun to concern myself with some of her more legendary apprehensions. Lately, y'all, it's become important to me to have my personal items organized so that if, heaven forbid, I'm in an accident in my clean undergarments a friend or
All Things Southern “Bringing you the charm and heritage of the South…” ph 318-559-0319 • cell 319-282-2508 tomtom@allthingssouthern.com
relative can come into my home and get additional garments without bringing shame on the entire family. Mama raised us girls to understand that leaving the house with so much as a dish in the sink was to invite a potential embarrassment we'd never live down. There was a time when my sisters and I laughed this off; noting we'd never once heard anyone in our community reveal finding an accident victim's home in such disarray. To this, Mama would always insist that people around here are just too polite to discuss things like that. We knew better than to question Mama but the truth is, we'd heard polite people discuss a whole lot worse, out of concern, of course. I remember once when Rhonda and I were teenagers and our friends were going out on the lake. We had been invited to come along and we had our parents' permission to join them after we completed our Saturday chores. Papa and Mama left
to go out of town for the day, warning us not to go to town until the clothes were done. In our defense, even former President William Jefferson "Bubba" Clinton would say, "There are different interpretations of the word done.” Our version meant sending all the clothes through the washer on the shortest possible cycle and then draping and hanging them all over the house to dry. A clothes dryer does take time and there was only so much daylight and our friends were waiting, after all. Unfortunately for us, Mama and Papa came home much earlier than anticipated. We paid dearly for that one. And to this day, Mama is likely to take a sick headache just thinking about the indignity the family could've suffered had there been an emergency. Uh, oh! And now, I've gone and told it. I really should go check on Mama. Y'all have a good one and drop me a note on the porch. I'll be watching for you. ~Hugs, Shellie
Nothing like NOLA
By Su Stella Sometimes we just have to go visit New Orleans - one of the most incredible places on this planet! When we lived in Biloxi before Katrina hit and we could just take a quick daytrip there. Now we have to plan for such. I'll share with you some things we did on our trip last month. If you want to stay at a really elegant hotel, I suggest Hotel Monteleone. It is situated in the middle of the French Quarter, making it convenient to park in their secure parking area and not have to deal with your car until you leave. The hotel has a rooftop pool with beverages and a carousel bar that slowly spins next to the lobby. Fresh fruit make their continental breakfast refreshing before you head out into the heat. Whenever you visit this fine city, always be sure to bring your most comfortable walking shoes as the sidewalks can be pitted. We started our visit at the Louisiana State Museum, located next to the beautiful and iconic St. Louis Cathedral, to see Living with Hurricanes Katrina and Beyond. They did an incredible job making the recent past come alive. The second floor is filled with Mardi Gras memorabilia and
is packed with the artistry, glamour and history of this celebration. Just outside the museum is the world famous Jackson Square with the statue of Andrew Jackson atop his horse in the park. If you want to really absorb the local culture, all around the square are artists, musicians, fortune tellers and a host of characters. For those seeking local produce, international gifts, or a snack for lunch, the French Market will fill the bill and is just a short walk. You can easily spend hours in the French Quarter wandering odd stores, galleries, antique shops, and restaurants. Stroll the Quarter in the morning if you prefer a calmer atmosphere because as daylight casts long shadows, the streets come alive with locals and tourists and that oh-sowonderful New Orleans music! Since NOLA is a 24/7 kind of place, our trip usually entails arriving, swimming, eating, and napping at the hotel so later in the evening we are wide awake and ready to go out and see what's happening. Wandering the neon-flooded noisy streets is like stepping into another era, or at the very least a costume party. You'll see everything from future brides in mock veils with bridesmaids to folks dressed in feathers, cowboy clothes, Goths, and a few wide-eyed Mom and Pops visiting for the first time.
Wandering the neonflooded noisy streets is like stepping into another era.
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The world famous Café Du Monde is open around the clock so we often enjoy our café au lait and beignets in the early hours after seeing the night sites. As in any city of this size, always avoid deserted streets and be cautious of the usual scam artists. A good idea is to carry just one credit card and a small amount of cash. The blocks around the French Quarter are generally safe and you'll see a strong police presence on foot, bikes, and even horseback for added safety. It helps to be street smart when traveling anywhere these days. If you have never visited New Orleans, put this on your bucket list! If you're a huge fan of the grand city like me, you won't be able to stay away for too long. You can be anyone you want to be here or just be yourself so wrap that feather boa around your neck and click your red glitter heels together three time because there is no place like NOLA!
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MY FAVORITE FISHING HOLE
By Pro Angler, Joe Joslin
Toledo Near Record Low Water Levels Guide Service Questions: As to be expected, with ramp closings and articles about Toledo and Rayburn's low water levels in numerous publications, everyone's wondering if our guide service is operational. YES, business as usual. In 2006, Toledo's levels were even lower and we continued fishing with no major problems. Obviously, we're very cautious when navigating the lake but the fish are biting! Fishing Reports/Bass: The current lake level is 162.4' with full pool being 172 feet, 9.6 feet below full pool. There were very few boats on the lake in late July and with school resuming Toledo angler, and low lake levels, that will Brently Cooper, with a big not change except for the largemouth caught week of Labor Day. Patterns on a DD22 crankbait, caught in have not changed very much other than we've been the Six Mile area located on the fishing deeper on days with southwest part of lots of bright sunshine. Our the lake. patterns have been fairly basic with Texas and Carolina rigs making up much of our fishing day in depths of 15 to 30'. We have also been getting a few good
topwater bites early morning and late afternoon and when we're fortunate enough to get some clouds and light rain conditions. Our recent producing topwater lures have been Berkley's Frenzy Walker (similar to a Zara Spook), Chug Bug and Yellow Magic. In addition, on grassy points we have also been fishing Stanley's Ribbit frog and a buzz bait(Bill Norman's Triple wing). Crankbaits continue to be productive and we are using a couple of middivers(Norman's DLN and Bomber's Model A) plus our favorite deep diver which continues to be Norman's DD22. We are running our crankbaits on 10,12 and 15 lb test Berkley 100% Fluorocarbon depending the depth we want to cover. The lighter line allows crankbaits to run deeper than the heavier line. Sometimes you want to use a DD22 but you don't want it to run as deep so using larger line will help keep the bait from digging. Colors we're having success with are firetiger, bumble bee, sexy shad and blue/chartreuse. Schooling bass should be more active the dark side of the moon in August as they tend to be active for a couple of weeks then back off for a while, impacted by the moon phase. In summer months, my years of fishing journals exposes the fact that the dark phase of the moon(moon under foot) is generally much better during daylight hours for schooling bass on the surface. When fish will school on the surface,
they are usually active at other depths as well. Before becoming a professional angler 13 years ago, I'd plan my summer vacation around the dark phase of the moon which I felt would improve daylight fishing conditions, especially the morning fishing. On other fish-catching patterns the drop shot and jigging spoons have been, at times, productive near the river and especially along main creeks where there are huge amounts of baitfish (shad). Crappie/Yellow and White Bass: "The crappie are still biting" says crappie guide, Noe Garcia with the most consistent pattern being baited brush holes with green brush in 18 to 28 feet. Many of the crappie/white perch are running over a pound. Yellow and white bass action has been excellent on the south end using tailspinners (Little George and Knock-off by Bill Norman Lures) plus jigging spoons by Klassic Lures and a custom spoon a friend makes for me. Some days we are catching almost any number we wish to catch. Joe Joslin is a syndicated outdoor columnist, tournament angler and pro guide on Toledo and Sam Rayburn. Contact him at 337-463-3848 or joejoslinoutdoors@yahoo.com or www.joejoslinoutdoors.com.
Calendar of Events
August 2011
August 4 - 7 ___________
August 26-28 __________
August 27-28 __________
Satchmo Fest, ew Orleans
Gueydan Duck Festival 888-536-6456
Sik Nic Car Show, Gonzales 225-621-1700
August 18-21 __________ National Pro Fastpitch Tournament SPAR Frasch Softball Facility www.profastpitch.com
August 20 _____________ The Arts and Crabs Experience Lake Charles Civic Center & Lakefront Promenade 337-439-2787
August 27 _____________ White Linen Night St. Francisville 225-635-3873 Dry Creek Ranch Men's Skeet Shoot, Reeves, LA 337-666-2657 515 3666 Louisiana Road Trips
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TRAVEL ADVENTURE
By Dianne Newcomer
La Dolce Vita! “My bucket list is now much shorter!“ said Columbia resident Bob Meredith. “Our Mediterranean cruise was magnificent. Belinda and I had a great time. We saw a lot of places in a very short period, and we were very tired but very rewarded every day!” To hear such a glowing report is music to a travel agent's ears, but I have to admit I was not really surprised. After all, the Meredith's were on one of Royal Caribbean's newer ships and sailing their “Best of the Med” itinerary from Barcelona, Spain to ports of call like Provence and Nice, France, and Florence, Rome, and Naples, Italy. How could they not have a great time? “Barcelona was way more than I expected,” admitted Mr. Meredith. Located so close to Spain's border with France, it is a perfect jumping off point for a Med cruise. The Greeks, Romans, Moors, and French all left their mark on the city's culture. Even with over 2000 years of history under her belt, Barcelona is neither dull nor stuffy. In fact, I think she was one of the most fun and refreshing of the old European cities I have visited, and, thanks to the touches of Gaudi, the city is definitely one of the most whimsical. Gaudi's most famous work, his unfinished Church of the Holy Family or Sagrada Familia, is mind-boggling. This architectural genius, who never met a straight line he liked, worked on this structure for over 40 years until his death in 1926. Work is still on-going even today and is not expected to be completed for another 50 years. If you don't think you will ever make it to Barcelona, then Google and read about it. The Sagrada Familia is truly extraordinary. Like NYC, it can be said that Barcelona is a city that never sleeps. I would suggest that is because dinner/supper commonly starts at 10pm. The city's waterfront walking promenade, known as Las Ramblas, is busy
into the wee hours of the morning! Outdoor cafes, shops, mimes, street entertainers, and arcades line the streets in this area; it is the perfect place to see and be seen or just sample the Spanish way of life like the Meredith's did before heading off into the beautiful blue waters of the Med where a little taste of France and Italy awaited! When Bob told me his favorite port stop in France was not the flashy celebrity rich beach area of Saint Tropez but the little town of Aix en Provence (pronounced "X on Pro Vonce" according to him), I was truly surprised. Whereas some places in the French Riviera scream glitz and glamour, the Meredith's opted for this charming little town, affectionately called a suburb of Marseille, where they enjoyed "a great glimpse of everyday French life, history and culture away from the coast - and the best restaurant of the trip!" The history of Aix dates back to the 17th century when the Romans made the town a "spa stop," but today, in addition to enjoying its beautiful fountains, pedestrian malls, famous spas, and boulevards lined with architecturally stunning townhouses, Aix is recognized as the culinary center of the Provence region. Until Mr. Meredith mentioned his great meal, I had forgotten that I had once dined on hamburgers made from quail in Aix! “After our day in Aix and the port of Toulon, we were off to Florence and Rome where the days were long, hot, and busy with so much sightseeing. June is high season so the lines were sometimes challenging, especially at the Coliseum and the Vatican, which were both nothing less than awesome. Unfortunately, we had to just hit the highlights of this great city. When there is so much to see and do, we decided to just throw some coins into the Trevi Fountain in hopes of assuring a return visit."
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“My favorite port turned out to be Naples," said Meredith. "Pompeii must have been an absolutely amazing place before that day in 79 AD when Mount Vesuvius blew its top. Thousands died as the city was completely buried in up to 50' of volcanic ash in 18 hours. It was surreal walking through an area that was buried nearly 2000 years ago. Seeing ruts in the limestone streets from the chariots, the remains of homes and government buildings, the life-like plaster molds made from the cavities left from human bodies with their facial expressions, and the well-designed layout of the town makes you very aware of how advanced Roman society was. It is also a reminder just how everything can change in an instant." In addition to Pompeii, the couple also toured Sorrento, a beautiful city wedged into a cliff overlooking the twinkling Mediterranean Sea and well known for its lemons. They also spent time in Positano, one of the crown jewels of the Amalfi Coast and another great place to sightsee, stroll, spend money, grab a pizza, and savor the sweet life. When you think about it, the world grew up along the shores of the Med. It is still the perfect place to see, smell, touch, hear, and taste the “la dolce vita," so why not call me at Monroe Travel Service and let's see how you can make a little history of your own? Right now, we have some great deals on fall cruises to the Med (7, 10, and 14 days) so call 323-3465 for a free brochure. We need to be making plans. After all, Mount Vesuvius moments happen all the time. Who knows…the next one just might rock your world. The time to travel is now!
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Louisiana in the Civil War
August 1861: In for the Long Haul By Terry Jones By August 1861, it was apparent the short war that everyone had predicted was not to be. The Confederates had followed up their July victory at First Bull Run with another triumph at Wilson's Creek, Missouri, on August 10, but the Yankees showed no hint of recognizing Southern independence. The war would be a long one. Five days after the Battle of Wilson's Creek, Capt. David Pierson wrote his father. Pierson had served as Winn Parish's delegate to the Louisiana Secession Convention, where he opposed leaving the Union (North Louisiana's Winn, Ouachita, Catahoula, and Caldwell parishes voted against secession). Nonetheless, Pierson went on to organize the Winn Rifles for the 3rd Louisiana and marched off to war. Pierson told his father, “Whilst we were in the bushes forming our line, they sent their bullets among us thick as hail and would have killed half of our Reg't but we lay on our faces close to the ground and the balls passed just over us. Already every bush & tree was riddled above our heads. The first fire of the enemy brought down three of my Company in a few feet of where I was standing, one shot through the heart, the other two seriously wounded. . . .My Company fought bravely to the last and kept together & in line better than any other Company in the regt.” As men like Pierson left for the front, women and Kate Stone's diary children often found has been themselves alone on isolated published under farms having to take over the the title chores normally left to Brokenburn (LSU Press). husbands. Patriotic zeal still burned brightly, but life became increasingly difficult in this time before food stamps and the social welfare net.
Sarah Lois Wadley, a seventeen-year-old girl in Northeast Louisiana, wrote in her diary how hard it had become for some of the local families whose men had joined the army. “Mrs. Brantley has fifteen children, she has three sons, two sons-in law and one grandson in our army, she came down to try to get a little money from Father, she said one of her sons had returned home on account of sickness and was now going back again and she wanted to give him some money and send some to his brothers. . . .We were very sorry that Father was not at home, if he had been he would have strained every nerve to have paid her under such circumstances. . . .Mrs. Brantley says that around in her neighborhood every one has given almost their last cent of ready money to the war cause.” Not far away from Miss Wadley lived Kate Stone, a vivacious twenty-year-old who tried to make ends meet with her widowed mother and two younger siblings on their Madison Parish plantation. Throughout August 1861, Kate noted in her diary how everything seemed to revolve around the war. August 24: “Nothing but war news talked of and sewing societies being organized to sew and knit [for the soldiers].” August 25: “After dinner Kate, Ashburn, and I went in the carriage to the levee to see the Swamp Rangers, Capt. Kup and Capt. Sweet's artillery company, embark on their way to the front. All the military companies in [Vicksburg] escorted them down to the river and there was a great crowd.” “Kate and I went to the Episcopal church to see the last sad honors paid to Mr. William Cowan. He was buried with military and Masonic honors, one of the victims of the war. Death claimed him in the prime of life before he could fire one shot for his country.” August 28: “Mr. Abe Curry is home on furlough.
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He was in the battle at Springfield, Mo., and he was twice knocked down but unwounded.” August 30: “Mamma and I, after knitting awhile, went to work on the boys' uniform shirts. . . Mr. Abe Curry gave an interesting account of his campaign in Missouri and the battle of Springfield but says fully half of the people are opposed to us. He thinks the army there will suffer for clothes and shoes when the winter sets in.” Four of Kate's five brothers served in the Confederate army. Only one escaped harm. William was wounded twice, Coleman died after his horse fell on him, and Walter, who volunteered when he was sixteen, died of disease. Sadly, the Stone family's losses were not unique in Civil War Louisiana. Few families, black or white, would escape the death and destruction that was inexorably headed their way. Dr. Terry L. Jones is a professor of history at the University of Louisiana at Monroe and has published six books on the American Civil War.
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RECIPES
by Stacy Thornton
August brings us much - we kick off football season, start back to school, attend practices and after school activities, and get busy! I do love summertime and not having a school schedule, staying up late and sleeping late. Summer is taste tantalizing with fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, watermelons, peaches, peppers, okra, peas, and corn. But I have to admit, this summer has been one to make me rethink my love of the summer months. It has been HOT but our taste buds have burned out. You gotta love all the tastes of summer!
Sweet Corn Chowder 3 slices bacon, chopped 2 c. peeled diced fresh potatoes 1/2 tsp. salt 2 c. milk
1 medium onion, diced 3 c. sweet corn kernels 1/4 tsp. pepper
In a heavy pot cook and stir bacon until crisp. Add onion and cook over low heat until soft. Add potatoes, salt, pepper and enough cold water to cover. Bring to a boil and simmer for 10-15 minutes until potatoes are just tender. Add corn with a bit more water if needed. Return to a boil and simmer for about 10 minutes. Stir in milk and heat through.
Fried Chicken 30 saltine crackers 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 2 tablespoons dry potato flakes 1 egg 1 teaspoon seasoned salt 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper 1/4 cup vegetable oil Buttermilk 6 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves or thighs Soak chicken in buttermilk. Place crackers in a large resealable plastic bag and crush until coarse crumbs. Add flour, potato flakes, seasoned salt, and pepper to bag and mix well. Beat egg in a shallow bowl; heat oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Remove chicken from buttermilk and discard buttermilk. One by one, dredge chicken pieces in egg then place in bag with crumb mixture, seal bag and shake to coat. Reduce heat to medium and cook coated chicken in skillet for 15 to 20 minutes, turning frequently, until golden brown and juices run clear.
Fresh Tomato Salsa 2-3 medium tomatoes (finely diced) 1⁄2 red onion (finely diced 1 jalapeño pepper (ribs, seeds removed, finely diced) 1 serano pepper (ribs, seeds removed, finely diced) juice of one lime 1⁄2 cup cilantro (chopped) optional: oregano and/or cumin to taste salt/pepper to taste Chop tomatoes and prepare peppers. Be very careful while handling these hot peppers. If possible, avoid touching with your hands by using a paper towel. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and hot water after handling and avoid touching your eyes for several hours. Set aside some of the seeds from the peppers. If the salsa isn't hot enough, you can add a few for heat. Combine all ingredients in a medium sized bowl. Taste. If too hot, add more chopped tomatoes. If not hot enough, carefully add a few of the seeds from the chilies, or add some ground cumin. Let sit for an hour for flavors to combine. Makes 3-4 cups. Serve with chips, tortillas, tacos, burritos, tostadas, quesadillas, pinto or black beans.
Summer Fruit Salad 2/3 c. fresh orange juice 1/3 c. packed brown sugar 1/2 teaspoon grated orange zest 2 c. cubed fresh pineapple 3 bananas, sliced 2 oranges, peeled and sectioned 2 c. strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/3 c. fresh lemon juice 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/2 teaspoon grated lemon zest 2 cups blueberries 3 kiwi fruit, peeled and sliced 1 c. seedless grapes
Bring orange juice, lemon juice, brown sugar, orange zest, and lemon zest to boil in saucepan over medium-high heat. Reduce to mediumlow and simmer until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract, let cool. Place fruit in a large, clear glass bowl in this order: pineapple, strawberries, kiwi fruit, bananas, oranges, grapes, and blueberries. Pour the cooled sauce over the fruit. Cover and refrigerate for 3 to 4 hours before serving.
Museum Fundraiser Link and Huawei Technologies are sponsoring a FUND RAISING EVENT at ULM for Chennault Aviation and Military Museum in Monroe on August 19. The affair will take place in the ULM Library banquet facilities on the 7th floor. Limited seating so early reservations are encouraged. The program will feature music by Ellis Marsalis Jazz Quartet, an address by Admiral William Owens, former Vice Chair of Joint Chiefs of Staff, and others. An all expense trip to China for two will be awarded to some lucky couple. Call 362 5540 for tickets and information. Louisiana Road Trips
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BEDS & BEIGNETS
By Mary White
A Donaldsonville Revival After the balloons leave Baton Rouge for the Balloon Festival, they fly right over the nearby home of Donna Schexnaydre, innkeeper at The Victorian on the Avenue (www.BnBFinder.com/VictorianAvenue). Located in Donaldsonville, The Victorian on the Avenue has had quite an exciting existence. Built in the 1890s, it has been used as five different shops and a private home. In October of 2002, the house moved! Donaldsonville used to be a thriving metropolis. One of the oldest cities in Louisiana, it served briefly as a state capital. During the 40s, 50s, 60s, and 70s, the city was a major port on the Mississippi, using ferries to get across the river. With the construction of the interstate, that all changed. All the commerce moved to the east of the river and Donaldsonville fell into disrepair. Enter the Donaldsonville Downtown Development District, an organization devoted to rebuilding and restoring the Donaldsonville downtown area. The Victorian on the Avenue was donated to them, as was a plot of land on Railroad Avenue. Schexnaydre Restoration and Construction was brought in to
move the house and six months later, the Schexnaydre's bought and restored it, renovating The Victorian for use as a bed and breakfast. It turns out the original house on Railroad Avenue looked a lot like The Victorian so Donna always says: “The Lady has come home.” The restored house has five rooms and five bathrooms and, like the Schexnaydre's, has hosted quite a few characters. People from all over the world have stayed at the inn but the biggest impact was made by people who stayed after Hurricane Katrina. Donaldsonville is only 30 miles from Baton Rouge and 60 miles from New Orleans so the city played host to quite a few Katrina refugees. They only lost power for one day. Donna remembers some guests calling after trying to go back home, in tears because they had no where to go; their home was still under water. Donna ended up housing multiple families as well as finding room for others at nearby properties that were empty.
At her own home, they hosted a Japanese film crew for thirty days! The most emotional story comes from a woman who had been stuck in a house with 12 others in Mississippi, all sharing one bathroom! The woman got into her car and started driving west. Somehow she ended up at the Victorian on the Avenue. She said to Donna “I don't know how I got here, I've never heard of Donaldsonville, God must have sent me to you,” and she just started crying. Today, Donaldsonville is getting bigger all the time. A few years ago, the No Problem Raceway opened up nearby and people from all over the country come to race here. As for ballooning, the Schexnaydre's don't do it themselves but have a number of friends with their own balloons and travel to different competitions, competing and giving rides. For more information, visit www.BnBFinder.com/VictorianAvenue. Mary White is the author of “Running a Bed & Breakfast For Dummies” and an avid B&B goer. She has stayed at bed and breakfasts all over the world and particularly loves the inns of Louisiana. In 1998, Mary founded BnBFinder.com, a top on-line bed and breakfast directory that lists thousands of B&Bs, inns, and boutique hotels worldwide.
Earning a Dollar By Robert Lemoine
A dollar. It used to be so much. Now it seems like it's nothing. The new generation has no appreciation for it. The youth of today see us go to the store and slide plastic through the machine and leave with "stuff". They have no idea how it works. My wife and I try to pay with cash on most items so our kids see it's not magic. They watch us at flea markets when people give us money in exchange for merchandise. We've even let them start helping with customers. I think it will help them better understand how a dollar works. When I was younger, I wanted a toy that cost about $50 and that was a lot of money in the early '80's. I was told "NO". But my very insightful step-Dad said I could work for it. He had a pile of bricks thrown into the wrong spot in the yard and needed them stacked neatly by the fence on the other side of the yard about 250-300 feet away. I carried bricks, one in each hand, then stacks of 4 or 5 at a time, and then just whatever I could handle. I was so tired.
Every day after school for about a week I carried and stacked bricks until dark. When all the bricks were moved, I had the money to get that toy... the first Optimus Prime Transformer. I paid for it with my HARD EARNED DOLLARS and had a couple of dollars left over. A few years ago, they moved that stack of bricks to almost where they started out. Anyway, I hope to give our kids the same life lesson that a dollar is not just something everybody has and that you have to EARN it. Keep in mind that when we were growing up, our parents went to the bank to deposit a paycheck and went to the bank to get money. It was real, not just a "magic" piece of plastic. This story was originally written on April 16, 2009, and I still have that toy tucked away in storage. Jeffy Cole, the man who taught me about a dollar, left this world on April 24, 2010 while sleeping peacefully in his bed. I'm very grateful that he had the insight to show me how a dollar really worked. That lesson has echoed
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through the years as I've grown up. Although bricks haven't earned me a dollar in a long time, I still sometimes think, “How many bricks will this cost me?” After his passing, those bricks moved once again. They are now in my yard, stacked neatly where my boys placed them. That's right, I used them to teach the same value I learned as a small boy. Who knows, those same bricks may be used in the future to teach another generation the value of a dollar. May God bless you and keep you. Remember, the fastest way up is to kneel down.
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A Little of This & That By Johnny Wink
You know this guy. Well, now there's a way really cold water and hit a stump or cypress knee, Let me tell you you would've wished for one of these. Also, there's to fix this man's wagon - with colored what's going on this a Wing Tree that holds up to five Mojo's on one summer at Megabucks pellets. That's right, this company sells colored pellets. Each box comes with bright stand. I got to get a few of these. Remember, the in Jones. The big news more gizmos you have, the more birds in the bag. I colored pellets. Orange, yellow, green, and is that it's HOTTTTT. I saw the video and it looks great. Paul Meeks sells blue. So, if the man has yellow pellets and go outside to feed the animals and in a you have blue pellets, just open up the duck that decoy stand. You can find it at your sporting matter of minutes I'm wringing wet. Is it a goods store this year. that y'all just killed and see the color. Just super hot summer or is it just me getting The reports are saying good things about the make sure everybody in the blind has a old, or both? hatch this year. Remember all the water we had? different color. Then you'll know for sure At a friend's farm, his diesel pumps Well, a lot of it was snow runoff and that filled up who got what duck. And it just might shut are running 24/7 irrigating the crops. I sure those small ponds in the Dakotas and Canada, him up. It sounds cool and I can't wait to wouldn't want to pay that diesel bill. One try it out this Teal Season. Just make letting the ducks spread out and hide from thing that likes this sure your buddies all have different predators. That means more ducks. As long as we hot weather is the get some cold weather we should do just fine this colors when you get to the blind. sunflower fields. I year. And to add to this new game, this helped plant five of Hey, those sunflower fields are looking so company loves LSU so much they're his fields and making school colors! You'll be able good this year that a friend of mine, Hanah Fife, they're big and owner of Rusted Spoon Photography, brought some to shoot purple and gold shot pretty right now. of her customers over for photo shoots in them. pellets. I hope they come out with It's going to be a One person came all the way from Dallas with her Georgia Bulldog colors because great dove season wedding gown, got out in the sunflowers and had they'll be all over the rice fields in this year, but it some really amazing pictures taken. Hanah does Morehouse Parish and the purple don't come cheap great work and with a backdrop like this, wow! I and gold ones will be in the dead with the cost of just didn't think we'd have women in wedding ducks and geese. And don't forget the seeds, chemicals, tractors, diesel and farm help. So when you want to hunt a place like Arkansas colors. You might find one or two gowns walking in and out of the sunflowers. I bet people would've thought someone was getting pellets in a duck's butt. Maybe. We know this and the cost seems high, you'll married. Well, it wasn't me because when I get which state kills the most ducks by far - it understand why. And if you don't want to married it's going to be in a rice field, not some ole ain't even close. And don't forget, if you pay to hunt there, you can always hunt sunflower field. have a youngster wanting to know if he down the road and listen to them shoot See y'all next month, after I go on my annual killed a duck, here you can. while you get a suntan. That's why people spring vacation in August! But I can't tell you Mojo has come out with some new play golf. They don't want to pay money to where yet because then everyone will want to go, products this year, too. I tested one out last hunt in the sunflower field. Check it out on year. It's a walking stick with an orange big too. So I'll tell you all about it next month. opening day of dove season. The golf end on the bottom. If you've ever walked in courses are full. Okay, I've found out there is a shotgun shell company in South Louisiana named Spetrim Shot. Have you ever got in a duck blind By Carolyn Files and someone says, “I got that It was just a portrait of Murrell Butler, a painting of a man sitting in front of a window at Butler one,” and the next one comes in Greenwood Plantation. I have met Murrell and easily recognized that artist Darrell Chitty captured the and he says, “I got that one too?” According to him, he got them all. whole being of Murrell, not just a physical representation. Portraying the essence of subjects is what makes Darrell's work so compelling. You can hear the four beat cadence of hooves encircling a mist enshrouded track in MORNING WORKOUT as horse and rider pass through sun's golden rays. CHILDREN AT PLAY radiates giggles and energy of four girls on the front lawn of a plantation. Heat and summer smells draw you into a landscape of round bales of hay in a hayfield. Degrees in both business and art have enabled Darrell to successfully market his paintings, photography, and computer generated work. He is a master photographer who utilizes technology to keep current in his field. Darrell has developed webinars to teach and encourage artists and has held workshops in St. Francisville and at Butler Greenwood. He and his cousin, Anne Butler, are now collaborating on a book featuring Louisiana chefs that will be a feast for the eyes and the palate. Darrell lives in Haughton, Louisiana and exhibits in various places. Visit his website at www.DarrellChitty.com to view his work, learn more about him, or even purchase one of his pieces.
And if you don't want to pay to hunt there, you can always hunt down the road and listen to them shoot while you get a suntan.
Darrell Chitty, Artist
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Hunter Education Safety Course By Sonny Harrington
a quick clean kill, how not to waste meat, how management area hunting. If you're a hunter and were born on or to identify a safety approved tree stand, and Louisiana Wildlife & Fisheries certified after Sept 1, 1969, it's mandatory that you take how to field dress a deer to reduce weight instructors teach current hunting regulations a hunter safety class to purchase a hunting when moving him. such as tagging before moving a kill, bag license. Even if it weren't the law, this course LDWF oversees the Hunter Education limits, ethical practices, and wildlife teaches you more about hunting than you Safety Courses so check their website at conservation. Hear about animal habitats, may ever learn on your own. And it's free. food plots for deer, trespassing laws (property www.wlf.louisiana.gov for the class schedule The LDWF administers the standard and no longer has to be posted to warn provides all supplies for the course. in your area. The Hunter Safety Course is trespassers), and more. If you're a sportsman, The 10-hour course is held over two to funded by tax on Pittman-Roberson Act of most of this information will be invaluable four days. The class covers but is not limited 1937 when Congress extended and earmarked sometime during a hunt, especially when to resident, basic game, big game, bow the existing 11% sales tax on sport hunting incident reports from the last hunting season hunting, muzzle loader, and duck hunting. ammunition and firearms to be used for The classes are suited for all hunters, novice to are discussed. Nothing's better than learning wildlife restoration, making it available for from other people's the more experienced, to free. Home study hunter safety courses To report a game violation, mistakes. teach hunter offered on the website are available for $15 As a responsible responsibility, etiquette, but you'll still be required to attend a field call 1-800-442-2511 anytime. hunter, you need to and safe gun handling day. A field day is separate from a standard recognize your capabilities and limitations as techniques. Topics range from guns and course. With hunting season coming up in a a marksman and know your firearms and ammunition to animals and survival skills. matter of weeks, it's best to get hunter safety equipment. The course includes hands-on Other states have different requirements certified as soon as possible. instruction with firearms and ammunition to for their resident hunter safety courses but a Sonny Harrington is an LDWF Certified get the feel of different types of actions, Louisiana Hunter Education Certification Volunteer Hunter Safety Instructor. He is also an safeties, mechanisms, and learn the Card is recognized if you decide to hunt out NRA (National Rifle Association) Rifle & Pistol nomenclature for shotguns. You'll also learn of state. Young hunters can observe in class at Instructor. how to sight in a rifle, about shooting any age but need to be at least 10 years old to take the test for certification of completing the positions, shot types and patterns, and loading and transporting guns. Choosing the course. Underage kids can receive a certificate correct shot angle and learning the kill area of of attendance but they are not certified. A an animal are also topics of discussion. A basic Louisiana basic resident hunting license costs rule of firearm safety is NOT to mix alcohol $15 each year but you also need a big game and gunpowder; however, it can't be stressed license for an additional $14 to hunt deer. For enough as this is one of leading causes of serious hunters, I recommend buying a hunting accidents, with tree stands being the lifetime license for $300 that includes basic, primary cause. big game, bow hunting, primitive, La duck Other valuable information provided license, turkey stamp, and wildlife includes the five stages of hunter development (shooting, limiting out, trophy, method, and sportsman), how to leave land in better shape than you found it, how to aim for 1. Commerce and recreation 2. Nutria 3. Between 75 to 105 million crawfish 4. 30 days 5. They act as predators and as prey for other wildlife. Enjoy LOUISIANA ROAD TRIPS for only $20/year 6. Predators (hawks, owls, wild pigs, skunks), Name_____________________________________________________ humans, automobiles, and habitat destruction. Address___________________________________________________ 7. One-half hour before sunrise to one-half hour after sunset. City______________________________________________________ 8. A minimum of five miles. 9. The Louisiana Natural and Scenic Rivers System State_________ Zip___________ Phone_________________________ 10. 3,000 miles BONUS ANSWER: To subscribe, send check or money order to Louisiana Road Trips at John Grisham
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ouisiana Answers …
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The Charm of Chattanooga A Renaissance City Overflowing with Pride, Passion, and Community
By Mona L. Hayden
You see it everywhere in Chattanooga. From the riverside parks and galleries to thriving businesses and restaurants throughout the pristine city, the sense of pride and passion is most evident. Adding to the allure are panoramic views of the beautiful Tennessee River, a section of the Appalachian Mountains and the Cumberland Plateau. Located just 150 miles northeast of Birmingham on the Tennessee/Georgia state line, Chattanooga has experienced an astonishing transformation during the last 20 years. Today, the city glistens with fresh paint and high rises, lush landscapes and dance steps embossed in downtown sidewalks, an array of performing arts, and about 165,000 people who are proud to call Chattanooga home. Even if you aren't lucky enough to live there, you can always visit the Scenic City. Here are just some suggestions for your road trip but first things first - check into the Chattanooga Choo-Choo Historic Hotel (choochoo.com). This historical landmark is positioned on 24 acres and is sure to whet your appetite for what you're about to discover. The grand lobby is a former railroad terminal that houses an 85 foot dome ceiling built in 1909, the largest freestanding brick dome in the world. Opt to stay overnight in an authentic sleep car or in a conventional room. You could easily make the Chattanooga Choo-Choo a complete weekend destination and never leave the property. With dining options ranging from café style to formal, don't miss an evening at the Station House Restaurant where the wait-staff sings for their supper! Shoppers will delight in options ranging from handblown glass to specialty candy. Tour the 174' long Model Railroad with over 3000 feet of track, the elaborate rose gardens with fountains, statuary, and sitting areas or just relax in the hot tub or outdoor pool. The Choo-Choo is family and pet friendly and welcomes reunions, groups, conferences, and conventions. If you can tear yourself away, take the free electric shuttle bus downtown to see the attractions near the beautiful Tennessee River. First stop is the Tennessee Aquarium & Imax 3D Theatre (tnaqua.org). Perched
beneath six majestic glass peaks is the world's largest freshwater aquarium where you can take a River Journey or an Ocean Journey to discover thriving forests and aqua treasures. Relax and be entertained in the Imax 3D Theatre while you're there. Just across the parking area is the Tennessee Aquarium's River Gorge Explorer, a high-tech catamaran that travels up to 50mph into the Tennessee Grand Canyon. Take a 2-hour cruise on this 70-passenger hydrofoil-assisted vessel that is generally operated only in an ocean environment, as a Naturalist from the Aquarium narrates the expedition and identifies wildlife and historic sites. Other places of interest include a visit to the hands-on children's Creative Discovery Museum (cdmfun.org) where you can easily lose track of time with exciting adventures and exhibits. Experience the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (tvrail.com) and enjoy
riding authentically restored steam and diesel powered passenger trains through tunnels, across water, and among treetops on the South's largest operating historic railroad. The railroad museum will celebrate its 50th anniversary on Labor Day weekend (Sept 2-5, 2011) so check their website for specific events. If you want to know Chattanooga like the locals do, spend a mere $15 for a 90minute walking tour of the downtown area with Chattanooga Sidewalk Tours (chattanoogasidewalktours.com). Stroll across the renovated Walnut Street Bridge, one of the longest pedestrian-only bridges in the world, for an incredible view of the city with touring partners Carlton Thomas or Krista Seckinger. Amble through Coolidge Park to see the vintage Carousel and the retail
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revival on the North Shore where shopping rules, as your guide points out notable landmarks and shares tidbits of history and current events. Learn how the city has evolved into a prime tourism destination by utilizing the waterfront as 'Chattanooga's Front Porch'. Krista is quick to say, “I love
sharing information about a city that's really special to me. I watched it revitalize and felt the excitement.” For the ultimate in relaxation and entertainment, catch a ride aboard the Southern Belle Riverboat (chattanoogariverboat.com) as it cruises through the Tennessee River Gorge. Select from your choice of lunch and dinner cruises, sightseeing and moonlight cruises, and seasonal and holiday cruises. Book the riverboat for weddings, receptions, reunions, and most any celebration as it easily accommodates up to 500 guests. From prime rib to Papa John's Pizza, there's a theme for everyone. The Fall Leaf Cruise runs from October 15 to
November 6 so keep that in mind when planning your trip.
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Downtown across the Tennessee River, perched high on an 80 foot bluff, is a celebration continued on next page > > >
The Charm of Chattanooga continued of 100 years of architecture with the South's largest collection of American Art - the Hunter Museum of American Art (huntermuseum.org). From the 1905 classic mansion to the sharp lines of the modern 1975 East Wing and the contemporary steel and glass of the 2005 West Wing, the museums façade coincides with the vast collection of paintings, paper, sculpture, furniture, and other art spanning these periods. The 1905 mansion includes art from the Colonial Period to the post-Civil War era while a sculpture park is located immediately outside the modern structure. Within walking distance is simply a feast for the senses. No trip to Chattanooga would be complete without a leisurely stroll through the Bluff View Art District (bluffviewdistrict.com), an enchanting fusion of restaurants, cafés, galleries, gardens, and a historic inn, all exuding the panache of Southern flair with European influence. Local residents and entrepreneurs, Dr. Charles and Mary Portera, shared the vision to reclaim these neglected city blocks and began the revitalization by securing property to establish a bakery followed by a coffee house, placing a strong emphasis on quality and artisanal goods. Today, the Bluff View Art District consists of an historic inn, chic restaurants, and charming street-side shops where visitors can observe culinary artisans at work through their storefront windows making pastries and pastas, creating handmade chocolates, roasting gourmet coffees, and baking scrumptious breads. The intimacy of conversing with these artists provides a strong sense of connection, making the overall experience one of kinship and community. Within the district is also the two acre River Gallery & Sculpture Garden (rivergallery.com) displaying a most impressive
private collection of contemporary American art in a breathtaking natural setting. Without a doubt, time shared in the Bluff View Art District is time well spent. Dining options throughout this charming city are unlimited. For the finest in Greek cuisine, Niko's Southside Grill (nikossouthside.com) delivers in a big way. The Boathouse Rotisserie & Raw Bar (boathousechattanooga.com) satisfies
cravings for Gulf coast foods while Sticky Fingers (stickyfingers.com) slathers mouthwatering BBQ sauce on their menu selection. The Terminal Brewhouse (terminalbrewhouse.com), located adjacent to the Chattanooga Choo-Choo Hotel in the Terminal Station, brews and serves world-class beer while taking a twist on casual dishes to make them extraordinary. From Festo (pesto made with Feta cheese) and Fungi Pie to Pepper Smashed Steaks, all made from fresh local food, served with the best brews around, this is one stop not to miss. In typical Chattanooga 'buy / support local' fashion, the back of the menu lists and promotes partners, vendors, and friends that provide local fare to the restaurant. Niedlov's Breadworks (niedlovs.com) is a downtown family owned bakery specializing in healthy artisan breads made from a sourdough starter and using natural and organic ingredients. Owner John Sweet, a proponent of the slow food movement, composting, recycling, volunteerism, and mentoring, was named the 2010 Tennessee State Small Business of the Year by the U.S. Small Business Administration, recognizing his efforts and dedication to his community. John has mastered the art of baking with his beautiful and delectable breads and other tasty treats. Niedlov's products can be found on the menu at many restaurants as well as in their downtown bakery. Next door is Link 41, (linkfortyone.com) where owners Tom and Trae create artisan and cured meats from locally raised animals for their small USDA butcher shop. Farm to table it is. Using natural ingredients, these handcrafted products deliver big on quality and taste with menu items like Baconage (hickory smoked bacon and sausage), Brats (great pork and a custom spice blend), and Finn (their version of Italian sausage with whole fennel seeds). Link 41 has raised the bar, all for the love of pig. Bringing it all together is Crabtree Farms, Chattanooga's community farm that produces over 80 varieties of vegetables, fruits, and herbs and is maintained by a group of staff members and volunteers. With an impressive number of restaurants, food artisans, and farmers markets participating in the city-wide effort to buy local, this growing movement not only provides an economic boost but builds a stronger community and promotes better health within it. Gaining Ground (growchattanooga.org) is a group of local growers, sellers, and others committed to the production and consumption of local food in the Chattanooga area. Visit the site or contact Director Jeff Pfitzer for more information on Gaining Ground.
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After you've been thoroughly enthralled by the city, you may want to venture out a bit. Nearby attractions include the renowned Rock City (SeeRockCity.com) with its awesome botanical and geological features. Here you'll discover numerous natural rock formations, waterfalls, bridges, and even a cliffside terrace where on a clear day you can see seven states, all from the top of Lookout Mountain. This American icon and private garden is maintained by local master craftsmen and is a sight to behold. Remember their ingenious promotional campaign started in the 1930s of painting barns next to highways in exchange for adding the message “See Rock City”? Now you can see it, too, along with more than a half million other people that travel to see this marvel each year. For a real adventure, American's highest underground waterfall can be viewed at Ruby Falls (rubyfalls.com). This massive underground phenomenon is located deep within Lookout Mountain, 1,120 feet below the surface to be exact, although the entrance to the cave is at the foot of the mountain making it about 200 feet below. The 145 foot underground waterfall is best estimated to be about 30 million years old and continues to be a prime tourist attraction. With on the mountain top, don't miss out on what is billed as America's most amazing mile - the Lookout Mountain Incline Railway (ridetheincline.com). With a breathtaking grade of tract at 72.7%, the world's steepest passenger railway is an enclosed railcar with a glass roof giving riders a spectacular view of the mountains and the valley. This National Historical & National Mechanical Engineering Landmark is open year round allowing guest to enjoy the change of seasons. Just recently, news that Chattanooga has been selected as Volkswagen's North American manufacturing headquarters with a new assembly plant, business has never been better in the Scenic City. Become a fan on Facebook.com/ExploreChattanooga and see what other visitors are saying and keep up with what's going on. You might as well as pack a bag and have the post office hold your mail because the charms of Chattanooga will soon be luring you in.
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RUNNIN’ THE ROADS
By Barbara Sharik
The Majority Doesn't Always Rule I recently bought some hair color. I went gray, then decided I looked so washed out that I needed help. The directions advised doing a skin allergy test 48 hours prior to use. Among the warnings was one that struck me odd. It read, “If you have a tattoo, the risks of an allergic reaction may be increased.” Why? What does my butterfly tattoo have to do with allergies? Tattoo aside, a friend told me if I admit I color my hair, then everyone will know I have gray hair and by not saying I do it, I'll fool folks into thinking I'm younger than I am. The fact of the matter is, at my age, my age is hard to keep secret, bottle blonde or not. While on a self-improvement kick, I decided to exercise. I asked my doctor. He said go for it.
What does my butterfly tattoo have to do with allergies?
He probably figured I'd strain a muscle or get tired blood and come back for treatment. Then he could charge me an arm and a leg for treatment. Too bad. They're already pledged to the electric company and gas station. So, with his permission I bent, twisted, turned, jumped up and down and perspired for an hour. By the time I got into my leotards, I was too tired to exercise. My tiger-striped leotards are very stylish because big girls wanna look good too. But by the time I got them on, somebody called in a wild animal sighting. Besides age, weight is hard to keep secret too. I read that the key is to dress thin to win. According to statistics, the majority of women in this country are not super thin model material. This puts me in the majority. I'm overly fluffy and although fat is only deep skin, I'm working on rectifying that situation and completely changed my eating habits. I know by
having a figure that can shade my man in the summer and warm him in the winter, that dressing attractively is a challenge until I reach my goal. High-end designers don't know that no one loves a bone but a dog and he buries it. They don't care either. If you're full-figured you're advised to wear vertical lines. They'll add to the illusion of height and slimness and dark colors are supposed to minimize. Honey, they don't make stripes vertical enough nor colors dark enough for some of us. We're supposed to choose jackets or shirts that elongate the torso, but where do you find ankle-length jackets and shirts? Unfortunately, dressing thin doesn't solve much more than the visual problems hindering fluffy folks. Before I started on my healthy weight reduction diet, I once tried to buy health insurance. I filled out my application honestly which included giving my actual height and weight. There's always the temptation to shave the numbers, but I'm past the time in life to think I'd fool anyone into believing I'm skinny by saying I weigh less than I do. Some things are obvious. Covered up gray hair and fluffiness are two of them. Anyway, I found out I was too short to get health insurance. The letter I received said my height/weight ratio made me less likely to be accepted for health insurance. Actually, this was no big surprise. I've been knowing for quite some time that I'm too short. If I were six-foot-eight I'd be just right, and Blue Cross affirmed it. Barbara Sharik makes her home at Wit's End in Jones, Louisiana with a couple old dogs, young dogs and several stupid dogs, a cat, a talking cockatiel and a white dove. She's active in civic affairs, serves as a Justice of the Peace, a Notary Public, is the Clerk for the Village of Bonita and a columnist for the Bastrop Daily Enterprise. She has authored several books. You can email Barbara at barbsharikvail@hotmail.com.
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Scott's Seafood New Ruston Location!
In June, 2000, Scott and Betty Bond opened Scott's Seafood at 2812 Cypress Street in West Monroe (387-6212). Along with their son Brian and nephew Jason, they have a combined total of 77 years experience in the restaurant business and it shows in the quality of their food and service. The owners and staff take great pride in providing a quality dining experience, whether you eat in or call ahead for take-out. For times when you don't feel like cooking at home or eating in a restaurant, take advantage of the convenient drive-thru window and, new in Ruston, their walk-up window. It's easier than ever to pick up a great meal and take it home. The new location of Scott's Seafood at 2480 Hwy 33 in Ruston (232-7500) is just off the interstate. Take Exit 86 and drive 1.5 miles north. Visit their website at scottscatfish.com for their complete menu. Now with two convenient locations, there's no excuse not to enjoy some of the best catfish and sides in Louisiana!
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Explore the New England Coast! By Lee Estes We Louisianan's have endured the hottest summer I can remember but I just talked with my daughter in
to the public with tickets that include a visit to several, but The Breakers must be purchased separately. Leaving Newport on RI 114 north you will soon (about 30 mi.) intersect I 195 near Fall River, MA. A right turn for a short Connecticut who told distance and an exit me of the delightful at US 6 will carry weather they were you to New having. I can't take off Bedford, a major right now but I can write whaling port in the about that part of the U.S. during the 19th world. century. By now you Now is the time to get the idea, follow think about New the coast and England fall foliage but explore the wealth there's lots more for the of opportunities. If Only luck can have a Model T emerging from a visitor to enjoy. I can you don't fancy "Do covered bridge. only make a few it yourself" travel, suggestions and show a few pictures of a you can book a group program. Tauck Tours perfect place to take a leisurely road trip probably runs the best available. Kinda pricey along the coast from Connecticut but they take care to Maine. From Jackson, MS, you of you. can make very good connections Head north by air to Hartford, CT or from New Providence, RI on Southwest Bedford to Airlines. Rent your car there and Boston to visit be on your way. Old Ironsides in I suggest you start in Groton, Boston harbor CT and visit the Submarine and contemplate museum. Free admission, and you the great historic can explore the inside of the heritage of the world's first nuclear powered city. Further up submarine. While aboard, imagine Covered bridges are still found on country the coast you roads in New England. how it must have been to travel enter New across the North Pole under the ice. Just a few Hampshire with its wonderful Victorian miles further east takes you to Old Mystic Architecture and its own, although short, Seaport where the last remaining wood Atlantic coast. whaling ship is anchored. No free admission Maine is the easternmost part of the but a valuable learning experience about early United States and a wonderful travel American seamanship and experience. The lifestyle. coast is indented Your basic route along this with numerous coast can be followed on US1 with bays, islands, occasional side trips whenever the and quaint spirit moves you. And move you it fishing and will, because there are so many lobstering interesting and historical places at villages. US 1 every turn in the road. When you will keep you leave Mystic on US1, a short near the distance away is Rhode Island and coast but Atlantic Coast near Castine, Maine after turning north along don't Narragansett Bay it intersects hesitate to RI138 to the right. That will take you across wander off course. Little towns littered the bay to Newport crossing Conanicut with lobster pots and related Island. Newport is renowned for the fabulous paraphernalia, colorful and crusty mansions facing the sea which once housed characters intimately related to the sea, the most famous and richest people in the combine to keep things interesting. You country. The Breakers, home of Cornelius can indulge yourself by eating lobster Vanderbilt II, is the most outstanding among in local restaurants and pounds (a many palatial mansions there. Most are open common local term for an eatery Louisiana Road Trips
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Classic round barn, New Hampshire
serving locally trapped lobster). Anywhere you stop around Penobscot Bay can be a joyous adventure such as Wiscasset, Friendship, Rockland, Bucksport, and Castine. Rockland is home port of the Victory Chimes, a grand three masted schooner available for cruises and special events. For an out of the way adventure, head south on ME 15 to Stonington where you can go to bed in a motel with the sea just beneath the floor and find it a mile away when the tide goes out before morning. From Stonington, book passage on the mail boat to Isle A'Haut and visit a part of Acadia National Park not on the popular tourist agenda. Facilities are limited on the island so be sure and take food and water. Back on the mainland, it isn't very far to Bar Harbor on Mt. Desert Island, a major part of Acadia National Park. Drive the perimeter but be prepared for lots of other travelers. In this short article, I have tried to offer a guideline for the New England coast. You can have a wonderful trip in this area because it has so much to offer, both historically and beautifully. Lee Estes, a Kentucky native, migrated to Louisiana in 1956 with his wife, Lottie. He worked in aviation then with A&LM Railway. He began making photographs in Europe after WWII and ranked among the leading monochrome exhibition photographers in the U.S. during the 80’s. His extensive travels included leading tours across the globe. Lee has authored three photo/documentary books and is currently involved with the documentation of The Dixie Overland Highway (US80) in Louisiana, funded by a grant from the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities
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Starr Homeplace By Beau Johnston
Have you been searching for that perfect staycation location? Search no more as Starr Homeplace invites you and the whole family to attend a monthly community day held on the second Saturday of each month. With the blistering heat of summer, no event is scheduled during August but will resume on September 10th. The weather will be nice as you witness expert craftsmen practice their trades such as blacksmithing, wood working and many more! Learn these skills yourself as they are eager to teach anyone interested. Founder Joe Rolfe is dedicated to creating and maintaining an environment for all the arts to come together at least once a month and share their talents with each other. “I most enjoy when I see people coming together brainstorming and inspiring each other. That's what Starr Homplace is all about.” says Rolfe. He welcomes anyone who has a trade to visit him in Oak Ridge and make use of his array of facilities. Blacksmiths from across the country travel to Starr Homeplace and stay on site for several days during the months of April and October. There is a variety of talents on display though, as everything from poetry reading and chainsaw sculpting take place. Marla St. John, an artist and noted architect, states “What a great place! They are giving our area such a gift by preserving and sharing the arts, crafts, and architecture of past rural communities.” “The great part is that you don't have to be an artist at all to attend. Spectators come out every community day just to see who will be there and be a part of the community” says Rolfe. All you need is $5 for adults and kids under 12 get in free. Lunch is provided for a donation and bringing your own is always an option. Coffee is brewed by 8 am and day usually winds down sometime after 2 pm. Starr Homplace is located two miles north of Oak Ridge on LA 133/US 425, locally called the Mer Rouge Road. The tea is ice cold and the music entertaining as you stroll through the centuries of Northeast Louisiana past.
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Show & Shine Car & Bike Show The Vintage Car Club of Minden will host its 2011 Show and Shine Car and Bike Show on Saturday, September 10th in Downtown Minden. The event is co-sponsored by Minden Main Street and boasts the largest trophy presentation in the Ark-La-Tex Region. Free registration is open to car and bike owners interested in participating. Car classes will include antiques, sports and muscle cars, Corvettes, Mustangs, Mopar Class, imports and domestics, trucks, jeeps, street rods, rat rods. Motorcycle classes include custom, full, mild, and manufactured. Event Chairman Larry Gipson says “All entrants are urged to pre-register by September 1st and go into a drawing for $100 prize.” Forms are available at Harris Corner in Minden, from any Vintage Car Club member, or at www.vintagemindencars.com. Registration will also be held on day of show. A Swap Meet will also be held this year with new, antique and gently used items only (no junk please), especially those of interest to car enthusiasts. Early setup (7-9am) is required. Please contact Almory Walker at 318-377-4924 with any questions. There will be plenty of food, drinks, and entertainment with some proceeds donated to the American Cancer Society, St. Jude, UCAP, and local youth programs. The Vintage Car Club of Minden is a family oriented, non-profit organization that participates in area parades and car shows. The club awards scholarships to deserving high school seniors in Minden, sponsors a Dixie Youth baseball team and a Minden City League basketball team, and provides assistance to needy families during the holiday season. For more information, contact Larry Gipson (318-3779068); Tina Douglas (318-377-3411); or Cynthia Hawkins (318-371-2551) or visit www.vintagemindencars.com.
Living Garden Fountain Returning to the Biedenharn Museum and Gardens next month is the Living Garden® Fountain. Museum Executive Director Ralph Calhoun says it was very popular a couple of years ago so the museum decided on an encore exhibit. The thirty-minute performance combines choreographed interpretive movement, music, and water as a beautiful statue becomes a living fountain with water springing delicately from her fingertips and creating a sparkling corona around her head. The costumed performer bears a strong resemblance to the five maiden statues Miss Emy-Lou placed throughout her garden. The Living Garden® Fountain embodies Miss Emy-Lou's interest in music, dance, and gardens. Performances are Friday, September 16th and Saturday, September 17th, at 3:00, 5:00, 7:00 and 9:00pm. Admission is $5 per person. For more information, call (318) 387-5281 or visit www.bmuseum.org.
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