Thursday, January 31, 2008

Allan C. Richards photo exhibit of sites in Eastern Europe at Karpeles Museum Shreveport opens Sat, Feb 2, 1 pm

Native Shreveporter Allan C. Richard III is returning this
weekend for a showing of photos, both on canvas and
framed prints, that he has taken over that last couple of
years in Eastern Europe.

The work will be displayed at Karpeles Museum, Shreveport.
A reception Sat, Feb 2, from 1 - 3 at the Karpeles museum on Centenary Blvd near Centenary College, is open to all.

See the work at www.acr3.com.

Wednesday, January 30, 2008

Prior to Shreveport's Krewe of Gemini parade, Sat, Feb 2, 4:30 pm, SciPort offers hands-on activities for all ages


SciPort pendulum, Shreveport
Originally uploaded by trudeau
Sci-Port Discovery Center, located at the starting point of this Saturday’s Krewe of Gemini Parade, will offer a full schedule of hands-on programs, Space Dome Planetarium and IMAX Dome Theatre shows before the parade rolls, says Eric Gipson.

Hands-on programs include Beautiful Butterflies, 11 to 11:30 a.m.; Mouse Trap Cars, 11:30 a.m. to noon; Light & Color Cart, noon to
12:30 p.m.; Egg Drop Contest, 12:30 to 1 p.m.; Petting Animals, 1 to 1:30 p.m.; Edible Blood, 1:30 to 2 p.m.; Marvelous Mucus, 2 to
2:30 p.m.; Power Up, 2:30 to 3 p.m.; Recycled Paper, 3 to 3:30 p.m.; and Pop Rockets, 3:30 to 4 p.m.

Space Dome Planetarium shows include International Space Station, 10 to 10:30 a.m.; Eye on the Sky, 11 to 11:30 a.m.; Secrets of the Sun, 12:30 to 1 p.m.; Exploring Mars, 1:30 to 2 p.m.; and Technology of Space Center Exploration, 3:30 to 4 p.m.

IMAX Dome Theater films scheduled for Saturday are Deep Sea, 11 a.m. & 2: 30 p.m.; Hurricane on the Bayou, noon; and Wired to Win,
1:30 p.m.

Sci-Port will open at 10 a.m. Saturday and will close two hours early, at 4 p.m., for the start of the parade. Regular admission, which includes all hands-on programs, planetarium shows and exhibits, is $12 adults; $9 child, senior and military; $8 groups of 15 or more; and free to Sci-Port members. IMAX only admission is $8.50 adults; $7.50 child, senior and military; $7 group; and $5 for Sci-Port members. Combination rates are also available, and no ticket purchase is required to visit Sci-Port’s café and gift shop.


820 Clyde Fant Parkway, Shreveport
(318) 424-3466,
toll-free (877) 724-7678
www.sciport.org.

Blanc et Noir Marching Society set to roll with Red & Black Brass Band in Krewe of Highland Parade Sun, Feb 3, at 2 pm

"It's not too late to join our marching society for traditional New Orleans-style fun," said Jerry Davenport of the Blanc et Noir Marching Society. "We have the Red and Black Brass Band from Grambling making a big, eight-piece sound; we second line the entire route at the head of the Krewe of Highland parade."

The Krewe of Highland extravaganza rolls on Creswell Ave at 2 pm Sun, Feb 3.

Says Ernie Roberson on his eBay blog, "The Highland parade route is very easy to find as you exit I-20 on Line Avenue South and turn left on any street from Olive Street to Kings Hwy. The parade rolls north on Creswell ( just 2 blocks east of Line Ave) and over to Centenary Blvd using Herndon and Olive Street. If you come early, you can find the floats in the parking lot of Byrd High School and flowing down Creswell, south of Gladstone.

The well-known childens author and Disney film maker, William Joyce, usually cranks up his Roly Poly Olly float for the parade as the route runs beside his home near Centenary College. The Blanc et Noir Marching Society starts off the parade and you can find out more about this group on Robert Trudeau's blog. You'll find one krewe that throws only Hot Dogs! Check out youtube.com for the Highland Parade." Roberson throws from his Krewe of LSU Truck in numerous local parades, but Highland is home base.

Monday, January 28, 2008

Kickoff Tues, Jan 29, 3:30, for region's biggest weekend of art: student festival called ArtBreak Shreveport


Boris Drlja, Shreveport
Originally uploaded by trudeau
ArtBreak 08 is on the calendar for April 28 - May 4, says Shreveport Regional Arts Council's manager for ArtBreak, Julia Foley. She reminds that "The teacher orientation and kickoff is Tues, Jan 29, at Artspace, 3:30 to 5:30 pm."

See more on the amazing event, which involves some 50,000 people, at shrevearts.org.

River City Rep Theater returns to Scottish Rite Temple on Tues, Feb 19, 7:30 pm, with comedy Stepping Out


Charity Schubert's legs
Originally uploaded by trudeau
Nine women and one man trying to conquer their inhibitions in a dance studio comprise the cast and frame the story of the comedy Stepping Out, season opener for River City Repertory Theater. Patric Williams, artistic manager of the Actor's Equity-sanctioned company, will direct.

Seva May will play Mavis, the dance teacher. Her class is comprised of some of the area’s most admired actors: Sherry Bouche, Janin Pou, Jodie Glorioso, Bonnie Gillen, Charity Schubert, Pat Maxey, Angelique Feaster and Jenni Loer. Peggy Byers plays Mrs. Fraser, the cantankerous rehearsal pianist. Bouche and Byers are Equity actors.

Russell Dyer is light designer; Katie Dupont is choreographer. Set design and costume design are by McWilliams. Kermit Poling will create original music and the sound design. Additionally, the company will use the film score.

“STEPPING OUT” opens Tues, Feb 19 at 7:30 p.m. with additional performances February 20,21,22,23 at 7:30 p.m. and a matinee on Feb 24 at 3 p.m.

Performances will be at the Scottish Rite Temple, 725 Cotton Street in downtown Shreveport. Tickets are priced at $35.00 for the center orchestra and center upper tier and $25.00 for the side upper tiers.

Artists, craftsmen, designers, dramatists, dancers: La Div of the Arts Funding workshop Th, Jan 31, 5 pm, Artspace Shreveport


Jerry Wray sculpture 1
Originally uploaded by trudeau
Visual Artists, Craftsmen, Musicians, Creative Writers, Designers,
Theater, Dance, and Multi Media Artists:

Louisiana Division of the Art (LDOA) Annual Arts Funding Workshop for Individual Artists

artspace
710 Texas Street
Downtown, Shreveport

Thurs, Jan 31, 2008
5 p.m. — 7 p.m.

Walk step by step through the new LDOA grant programs for 2008.
Meet one-on-one with LDOA staff. Find out about grants available through the LDOA.

This workshop is FREE.
RSVP: call 673-6500 or email rsvp@shrevearts.org

Paris, Je T'aime, 2006 film, to show at Centenary Film Society at 7 pm Tu, Jan 29, and Th, Jan 31


paris je t'aime still
Originally uploaded by annya sk
Love is abundant in Paris, or so this cinematic collage implies, says the Centenary Film Society blurb. The film is a set of twenty short pieces and segues created by twenty different directors. Each five-minute film glimpses a unique love tale in one of the Paris’ eighteen most distinctive neighborhoods. The overall piece gains cohesion through the magic found in the City of Lights, and the spell it weaves on all it touches.

Paris, Je T'aime (R)
(France, 2006. Dir. Olivier Assayas and others. in French with subtitles. 116 mins.)

Centenary Film Society
* All screenings are Tuesdays & Thursdays in Jackson Hall, Room 304, (see campus map)
* All films begin at 7:00 pm; admission is free and open to the public.

Shreveport Symphony Orchestra players speak out via new website: shreveportmusicians.org


SSO
Originally uploaded by trudeau
"The symphony believes long-term success will not happen by continuing to hack away at the organization. 'We've got to continue to grow,' he said. 'We've got to grow our income resources...,' said Scott Green, SSO Executive Director. - The Times, June 18, 06

Those words greet the visitor to the latest arts website in the region, the
Orchestra Players United of Shreveport-Bossier (OPUS).

The symphony musicians web site brings facts and figures to the public that may be difficult to get otherwise. For instance, and pertinently: "Full-time musicians have taken a total 27% in pay cuts since 2001. The per-service rate has been cut 7% and the number of services (rehearsals or concerts) the Symphony has used has been reduced."

These cuts have remained despite the numerous house-filling concerts which have marked the advent of music director Michael Butterman.

The erosion of the core players' pay in recent years has been saddening. One example of life in the core is that of violinist Gary Bruns, a stalwart of the SSO's string section. Once he made a living playing for the SSO and regional orchestras as well as by giving private instruction. Today, he has become a certified financial planner. As a musician, he has long had to be an astute manager of money. Now he's transitioning away from the SSO because of the unremitting cuts in his principal paycheck.

The OPUS web site offers an overwhelmingly positive take on the life of professional orchestra musicians. You will see the role played by these musicians in education. There are a world of relevant community links on the site.

The OPUS site is not complete. But the material entered thus far is important to those who care about music and one of the most important institutions of the region, the Shreveport Symphony Orchestra.

Sunday, January 27, 2008

Open house at Caddo Magnet High, school for the performing arts and academics, Sun, Jan 27, 2 pm to 4 pm

Caddo Magnet High is a celestial school for the arts and academics. Involved parents, capable faculty, caring administration, vibrant student body: it is an island of civility in this sea of anomie. This I can testify as a pioneer member of the staff.

The arts faculty includes Shirlene Alexander, painting & drawing, Holli Hennessey, pottery, Elaine Webb, orchestra, Joe LeBlanc, jazz and band, Marandalous Holland, choir, Michelle McKellar, dance, Patti Reeves, drama, Terry Flores, photography and digital arts and Keith Thomas, video journalism.

Among several arts clubs is Leadbelly Society. Poets, singers and dramatists perform each meeting to a packed room; it is a crucible for young writers and performers.

Among the most frequently asked questions about Magnet:
a) Don't you have to pass an entrance test? Actually, no. A diagnostic test is given to incoming students to enhance their placement. But a 2.5 average and a record of good behavior qualify you for a shot at Magnet.
b) Is it, in fact, a public school? Yes. Free tuition and open to the entire parish. Students from almost every neighborhood and from even way out in the parish attend Magnet.
c) Do you give up sports if you go to Magnet? Founded with a proviso that excluded major varsity sports, Magnet nonetheless offers a world of sports. State-wide competition is pursued in soccer, lacrosse, swimming, track, softball, dance, tennis and other lifetime sports. There is a new basketball club. And the fencing program is world class.

Alas, at the moment the school web site is down. Soon a new site will debut at caddomagnet.net.

In the meantime, call 318-221-2501 for more info. Caddo Magnet is at 1601 Viking Drive. Use that address via Google maps for locating CMHS.

This has been a banner year for the school. Click here to see the high ranking won in the US News and World Report survey of America's best high schools.

Saturday, January 26, 2008

Stepping out with bling: estate jewelry sale to benefit River City Repertory Theater on Sat, Feb 9, Barnwell Art Center, 10 am to 7 pm

A one-day only shopping experience that will feature estate jewelry from all over the world will benefit River City Repertory Theatre, says Patric McWilliams. RCRT opens its second season in February with “Stepping Out,” a comedy with music and dance.

"The day to step out is Sat, Feb 9, just in time to shop for Valentine’s Day. And the place to step to is the Barnwell Center in downtown Shreveport," says McWilliams.

10 am to 7 pm
Refreshments and appetizers in the RCRT Cyber Café.
Columbia Cafe will provide locally roasted coffee and hot chocolate.
Tickets $10.00.

River City Repertory Theatre office (318.868.5888). Reserve in advance or purchase on location at the RCRT office, 2829 Youree Drive and at all four Max’s locations in Shreveport and Bossier. Tickets will be sold at the door of the Barnwell Center on the day of the sale.

By utilizing brokers from Los Angeles, Houston, New York and countries such as Israel, GCM Jewelry can display hundreds of pieces in this one-day exhibition. Along with viewing live pieces in the showroom, customers can preview pieces on laptop computers while enjoying snacks and beverages in the RCRT Cyber Café.

Most of the jewelry is one-of-a-kind and irreplaceable. “These gorgeous pieces, on the laptops and on-site, can only be seen and purchased in Shreveport that day,” according to GCM Jewelry owner Craig Toys. “You won’t see this type of jewelry at these prices in mass market stores.” Customers will realize up to a 50 to 75 percent savings over a retail environment, says Toys.

Hoping that this will become an annual event, RCRT plans to use proceeds to assist with continued funding of theatre productions and conversion of a downtown building (528 Commerce) to their home theatre. “We were looking for an exciting and unique-to-Shreveport type of fundraiser to raise money for professional theatre,” says Jodie Glorioso, local actor and a founder with RCRT.

Friday, January 25, 2008

West Edge Artists Co-op to offer exhibits at Artspace in March and the Multicultural Center of the South in April; membership open to regional artists


West Edge Art Co-op
Originally uploaded by trudeau
Once the West Edge Artists Co-op had a physical gallery that helped anchor Milam St. It was a fun era. But the investment in time and money proved to be an unreasonable burden.

Today the West Edge group is making art happen across the city via the City-wide program, a lecture series and website complete with blog. In their latest programs they will feature current members but are open to joiners. Writes Debbie Engle:

Site: Artspace
Theme: The Money Show

This show is loosely based on artists' relationships with money, government funding of the arts, the sometimes tacky tactics folks use to get art funded, etc. Feel free to use your imagination on this one - nothing is taboo! In fact, the new manager of artspace told us that censorship is not EVEN an issue. Installation dates are Feb 26 - 29; you are responsible for delivering your own work. The opening reception is March 14; the show continues through April 12.

Site: Multicultural Center of the South
Theme: Celebration of Women

We have been invited to partner with the MCCS for the "Celebration of Women Month." Our work will likely be easel-display only, so please keep that in mind. Pedestals will be made available for sculptures. Installation is the weekend of March 29. The opening reception is April 5, and the show will run thru the end of April.

All works at both shows will be for sale.

If you know - or are - an artist who is interested in participating, please apply for membership at our February membership meeting!

Applications can be downloaded from our website.
Dues: $25 per month.
weaco_op@yahoo.com, or
Thomas Little, president, 402-9912, or
Debbie Engle, Citywide Gallery director, 751-8540.

Art & Yoga with Pam Viviano at Lotus Center on first Sats, 1 pm

Art & Yoga is an experimental, experiential alliance to be presented the first Saturday of each month at Lotus Center, says Dorothy Kristin Hanna.

Instructor Pam Viviano combines art with yoga in her own practice and has used it in individual children’s yoga classes as a form of creative play. She has discovered the potential for creativity that is unleashed from meditation and yoga. Come experience a yoga class, then play with oil pastels, water, and brushes. Materials will be provided, but you may bring your own as well!

Pamela has a B.A. in Studio Art from Michigan State University and has exhibited locally at the Meadows Museum, artspace, Bossier Arts Council, and Lytles Theatre of Art. She is a certified Viniyoga teacher through the American Viniyoga Institute. Normally conducted one-on-one, Viniyoga teachers choose postures, breathing techniques, meditation, sound, and ritual to meet immediate or long-term needs or goals of students. Lotus Center, 444 Olive St
1 - 3 pm $15.00
865-6080

Btw, Sat, Jan 26 is Yoga Day USA. Tadasana!

Tesfaye Negusse brings Ethiopian paintings to Multicultural Center of the South; exhibit opens Sat, Feb 2, 2 pm

As part of the recognition of African American History Month, the Multi-Cultural Center of the South will present the work of Ethopian artist Tesfaye Negusse, says Valarie Gunn. The exhibit is called “Impression-Man on Canvas.”

Tesfaye obtained a Bachelor Degree in fine Arts from Addis Ababa University of Fine Arts in 1998. While a student Tesfaye moved into the adherence of African Abstract art. His many shows in Ethiopia attracted crowds of young Ethiopians, famous painters as well as foreign diplomats and business people, says his press kit. Eight years later, Tesfaye is an artist of reputation, exhibiting at more than 30 shows in Ethiopia and the USA.

“I think I am born for art. I believe art is for the spirit. Through my art, I reconnect the bridges between traditional and modern African elements. I use the rhythms of nature like the whistling wind, musical dancing, swaying grass, galloping horse and the rainbow as a major source of inspiration.”

Tesfaye will be at the Multicultural Center to open his exhibit on Sat, Feb 2, 2008 at 2 pm. The exhibit will run through Feb 23.

Thursday, January 24, 2008

Will Maranto and Robert Ivey lead Songwriter's Night at Artspace, Thurs, Jan 31, 6 pm

Rene and Julia Foley of RenTen Music say, "Please join us on Jan 31, 2008, at Artspace, 710 Texas Street, downtown Shreveport,
for an evening of songwriting inspiration."

Songwriters Workshop from 6-7- pm
Songwriters Performances from 7-9 pm
Featured: Will Maranto (Gypsy Mountain, othe bands) and Robert Ivey.

No Charge for this event.
Julia Foley: 402-2398.

Louisiana's Harmon Drew Supergroup arrive at Jayne Marie on Fri, Jan 25, 8 pm to shake the lake

The Harmon Drew Super Group will perform at Jayne Marie on Cross Lake this Friday, Jan. 25, from 8 to 11pm, says Bruce Flett. The 11-piece group's sound will fill the dance floor in the Upstairs Ballroom.

"The band is a four time winner of SB's Best Local Band Award and lead guitarist Ken Cardino has been recipient of SB's Best Local Musician twice. And almost anonymous "frontman" Mike Morris is about the Best north of I-10," says talent connoisseur Flett.

This showband has been pumping out blue-eyed soul for over 30 years. It is truly a classic Bayou State act.

(318)631-0919, Jayne Marie on Cross Lake.

Red Ribbons, Red Roses fundraiser for Shreveport's Philadelphia Center: roses delivered on Val's Day

Looking for an alternative to the usual Valentine's Day gifts? Says Ken Beatty, the Philadelphia Center is expanding its Valentine's Day fundraiser by delivering roses to your special someone.

· Contact the Philadelphia Center by 5 pm Tues, Feb 12, to secure your delivery.
· On Valentine’s Day, we will deliver one rose in a bud vase to whomever you designate for every $25 you donate. If more than one rose is ordered for the same person? One bud vase holds all the roses.
· We will deliver to the Shreveport/Bossier City areas. Otherwise pick up your rose & bud vase at the Philadelphia Center at 2020 Centenary Blvd, Shreveport between 9am-5pm.
· We will send you a tax id letter for tax purposes for 2008.
· That evening, collect ‘kudos’ from your Valentine for being so thoughtful!

Kelly Stover, (318) 222-6633 ext. 25.
kmstover28@yahoo.com

Artspace Shreveport and Valentine's: purses, jewelry and art Tues - Sat, 10 am to 6 pm

Of the many stalls across the city tight with tchotschkes for Val's, there is Giftspace - in the very back of painting-filled Artspace, 710 Texas.
Among the artists and artisans whose work will be discovered:

Heidi Kallenberg
Claudia Burns
Kim Bruce
Joanna Ballard
Sarah Anderson
Blair Thrall
Dian Snowden
Sue Stella
Golda Pickett
Wendy Morris
Curt Harville
Kristi Jones

Tues through Sat, 10 am to 6 pm
673-6535

Slow Food North Louisiana compares and serves soups and wine at Artspace Shreveport on Sun, Jan 27, 5:30 pm

"Soup's On" pot luck by Slow Food North Louisiana


5:30-7:30 p.m. Sunday, January 27
at artspace, 710 Texas St., Shreveport.


FEATURING: Participants' favorite soups and gumbos.
Wine will be available for purchase.
ADMISSION: $10 per person, open to members and non-members.
RSVP: slowfoodnla@hotmail.com

Wednesday, January 23, 2008

Jerry Wray speaks at Barnwell Art Center Thurs, Jan 24, 6 pm, on her work over the past 20 years ; see current Wray exhibit at Artspace Shreveport

Nationally known artist Jerry Wray will give a lecture and slide presentation at the Barnwell Center on Thurs, Jan 24, from 6 to 8:30 pm, says Freda Powell.

Her topic, “A Review of the Past 20 Years”, will revolve around the techniques used by the artist in the creation of her many masterful works.

Sponsored by the Hoover Watercolor Society, the talk is free and open to the public.

Upstairs at Artspace Shreveport, 710 Texas, the artist, both a painter and sculptor, has some 30 works on display. The exhibit, including new work from Wray's daughter, Mary Virginia Hill, is called Experiments in Color.


Barnwell Center at 673-7703 or
Janet Barlow at 861-0765.
Free parking is available in the parking garage across from the Barnwell Center.

Shreveport Opera presents the Arepo Ball with traditional tableau on Thur, Jan 31, 6:30 pm, Magnolia Room of Sam's Town


Shreveport Opera benefit
Originally uploaded by trudeau
Featuring the elaborate costumery of the Faux Royalty of the Region in a Tableau, which is part of the tradition of both New Orleans and Mobile, the Arepo Ball adds sumptuous food and music, both pop and opera, to fashion an evening swathed in feathers and made dangerous by those who mask.

The Shreveport Opera, for which it is a benefit, says it is the only ball in town that honors all royalty from all the region's krewes. After the Tableau, dance to the music of the Premiers, says the Spt Opera Box Office.

Thurs, Jan 31, 6:30 p.m.
Sam’s Town Casino & Hotel’s Magnolia Room
Entertainment by Shreveport Opera Xpress
Dine on a supper prepared by the Master Chefs of Sam’s Town
Cash Bar - Valet Parking - Black-Tie and Masking Optional
General Admission $75


Checks payable to Shreveport Opera
212 Texas Street, Suite 101 71101
Credit card, call (318) 227-9503

Shreveport's Caddo Magnet High has Mary Jane Malone Lecture Series author Kevin Brockmeier on Thurs, Feb 7, at 6:30 pm, Caddo Magnet High PAC

Best known for novel The Brief History of the Dead, fiction writer Kevin Brockmeier will speak at Caddo Magnet High on Thurs, Feb 7.

He is the Mary Jane Malone Lecture Series writer-in-residence for 08. Brockmeier will have seminars with Caddo Magnet scholars and address the student body prior to his 6:30 pm lecture. The evening talk is free and open to the public. The author will answer questions and sign books after the talk.

Info: 318-221-2501

Memphis roots-rock band Giant Bear loops into Shreveport's Jackrabbit Lounge Fri, Jan 25, 10 pm


Mandolin Mike
Originally uploaded by Pdence
Giant Bear returns to Shreveport this Friday to perform at the Jackrabbit Lounge at 10:00 p.m, says Kerry Hayes.

The show by the quintet is one of the last dates they will play before entering Memphis' Sun Studio to track the follow up to last year's widely-acclaimed self-titled LP; next month also includes appearances on My Old Kentucky Blog's Sirius Radio podcast, Oxford MS's Thacker Mountain Radio, and the International Folk Alliance Conference in Memphis.

Young actor in the house? see Mary Thoma Workshops on Sat, Feb 2, Shreveport Little Theater


Mary Thoma, Shreveport
Originally uploaded by trudeau
Mary Thoma Workshops announces two workshops for young actors:
Acting Fundamentals for Young People
Ages 8 - 10 years Workshop 9:00 am - 12 :00 pm $50
Ages 11 - 17 years Workshop 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm $60
At the Shreveport Little Theatre ( 812 Margaret Place). Discounts are available for siblings.


Both workshops: Sat, Feb. 2, 2008

Mary Thoma Workshops @ mmatters3@bellsouth.net to hold your spot. Payment and full registration must be made to The Shreveport Little Theatre at (318) 424-4439 by phone or in person by Friday, Feb 1 noon. SLT Office hours are 12- 4 pm / M- F.
For information on Mary Thoma, see http://www.imdb.com/name/nm2245081/ and http://www.acclaimneworleans.com.

Slow Foods Movement, an international trend, presents soup and wine event at Artspace Sun, Jan 27, 5:30 to 7:30 pm


Whole Foods, downtown Austin
Originally uploaded by trudeau
Winter soups and gumbos will be shared and prepared and discussed on Sun, Jan 27, 5:30 – 7:30 pm @ artspace, says the Slow Food North Louisiana web site. The Someone’s in the Kitchen series will feature Slow Food Movement guest chefs.

The pot Luck soups event has a fee of $10 per person with an optional $2 wine tasting. For more information contact artspace (318) 673-6535. Pre-registration is preferred, but not required. RSVP to slowfoodnla@hotmail.com.

Tuesday, January 22, 2008

The Recliners at Columbia Cafe, Shreveport, second and fourth Weds 7 to 9:30 pm


The Recliners, Shreveport
Originally uploaded by trudeau
The Recliners have a sense of melody, pacing, texture and a sense of humor. "We had a good time at Columbia Cafe on Wednesday the 9th. A couple of fans got carried away and, well— things like this just happen with the infectious music of The Recliners," says bassist-vocalist-guitarist Jim Huckabay, tongue-in-cheek.

"We have learned some new (old) material," says Bob Jordan. That means basically rock and folk from the Beatles era.

"We're performing 7 to 9:30 pm, Columbia Cafe, Kings Highway at Creswell. Come recline with us."

Columbia Cafe
(318) 425-3862
Tue to Fri, 7 am - 10 pm
Sat, 10 am to 10 pm
Sun, 10 am to 2 pm

Monday, January 21, 2008

Indie folker Paleo with eclectical Chris Alexander at Tipitina's Music Co-op garage, corner of Tex and Louisiana, Tues, Jan 22, 8 pm



Originally uploaded by carynorton
Susan Garner presents the folk/ indie-ish Paleo , www.myspace.com/paleo, Tues night at Tipitina's Music Co-op garage (pushed back a day owing to illness). Paleo's myspace label sarcastically says gothic / indie / lounge.

Paleo will be performing with local musical phenomenon Chris Alexander, www.myspace.com/chrisalexandermusic. Alexander can sing well enough to blow the room away on an original like "Dirty water rising" but he can also play steel guitar and blend into tracks from his studio that build to crescendos of art rock.

8pm..
$5..
Tues, Jan 22
Tip's garage..
101 Common St

Garner said the SPD were giving the Big D's shows Special Attention when we saw her on Sunday. Meh. We trust that through meetings and communication the bureaucracy will show support for her series at the restaurant site.

Sunday, January 20, 2008

Karpeles Museum, Shreveport, has Albert Walker's biplanes, War of 1812 documents and Robert Burns birthday at 3201 Centenary Blvd

"Our current local artist on display is Albert Walker," says the Karpeles Museum's Muzette Gallagher. "He is from Bossier, is primarily a landscape and wildlife artist, but in the past few years has developed an interest in vintage military airplanes. The current exhibit is in oil and the details of each painting are incredible."

Karpeles has probably planned the best Robert Burns Birthday in the region. Gallagher says, "Now, for the fun part. On Sat, Jan 26, from 1 - 3 pm, we will be celebrating the birthday of Scottish poet Robert Burns. We'll be having bagpiping, cockaleekie soup, shortbread and a merry old time! Think of it as Scottish Mardi Gras."

The document exhibit is "The War of 1812. See it through the month of March.
10 am to 4 pm Tues through Sat.

Saturday, January 19, 2008

Downtown Shreveport to see Grand Theater inside the Robinson Film Center in February

While the formal opening of the Robinson Film Center is scheduled for May, the interior work should be completed by February, says Chris Jay.

Seen in Jay's snap: "The Grand Theater, our 148-seater, is progressing wonderfully towards completion. Crews are installing the stadium seating in preparation for a February installation of the seats. In this theater, viewers will experience the best in independent, international, and classic cinema as well as film festival screenings, guest filmmaker appearances, and more.

The lighting in the ceiling looks fantastic. This theater will feature literally the nicest theater seats on the market: plush black leatherette material, reclining backs, the works. We still have a number of seats left for naming opportunities, for a one time donation of $500. Call (318) 424-9090 for more details."

Carnival masking? Body paint artist Neecee Blackwell serves Shreveport krewes and the public with face paint team

Mardi Gras festivals, events and parades call for masking. It's one of the most primal elements of Carnival.

The world of masks brings a cornucopia of choices. Historic Venetian style? Feathered mask that will fit around your eye glasses? Giant papier mache skull? Many partiers appreciate the simplicity and imaginative look of a painted mask.

Among the best-known and most active of Carnival face painters is Neecee Blackwell of www.facezfacepainting.com and
www.crookedtreegraphics.com
.

The year Blackwell and associates will be everywhere on the carnival scene. For the Krewe of Centaur (Sat, Jan 26) and Gemini parades (Sat, Feb 2) she opens shop at Marshall & Associates, 819 Shreveport-Barksdale Hwy (near Picadilly Restaurant), at 10 am.

During the Krewe of Barkus & Meoux (Sat, Jan 27) she'll be at Riverview Park, near the fountains, at 11 am. There will be 2 locations for the area's biggest parade, the Krewe of Highland, which is Sun, Feb 3: under the portico at Byrd HS gym and at Columbia Park for the post-parade party.

Facez paints half a visage for $5 and the whole mug for $10 or more, depending on design. If the weather and your wallet cooperate, Blackwell can create a trompe l'oeil on your torso. "We have trained for years at the Face & Body Art International Competition and are facepainters for Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines."

A memorial for James Hull Miller, stage designer and author, Shreveport

James Hull Miller died two weeks ago, reports Candace Higgenbotham. She wrote, " A graduate of Princeton, Jimmy was the designer for Marjorie Lyons Playhouse, had a national reputation as a lighting and set designer and was better known outside of Shreveport than in. My husband Edwin once noted “I’ve never met a lighting designer who didn’t mention Jimmy Miller upon learning I was from Shreveport and compliment his work.

He was a delightful, creative, quixotic fellow."

Edwin Higgenbotham remembers, "Jimmy was brought to Shreveport by the Lyons family in the mid 50’s to act as a consultant in the design and construction of the stage and house portions of Marjorie Lyons Playhouse. Prior to that he worked at a university in Arizona, if I am not mistaken. After construction he stayed on as the first technical director for MLP.

After he left the Centenary faculty, he and Hall Lyons established “The Arts Lab,” first at the downtown airport and later on Desoto Street. It was here that Jimmy really came into his own as a designer for “Spaced Scenery and Self Supporting Sets.” He did some work for the opera, but was mostly active outside of the Shreveport area. He and his first wife, Dorothy, did a lot of work at St. Marks and I think Dorothy established Shreveport’s first children’s theater there. He did a lot of work for churches and smaller colleges, and had a real following outside of Shreveport.

He was a prolific writer and continued to update his books until he was well up in years. Most of what he wrote is still in print, and one book was in its seventh edition the last time I checked.

I will always consider Jimmy to be 'a prophet without honour in his own country.' He was my friend and mentor, and I will miss him."

Friday, January 18, 2008

Jeffrey Goodman has website for new movie shot and financed in Shreveport, The Last Lullaby

A note From Jeffrey Goodman on The Last Lullaby, the movie he made in Shreveport:

"As some of you may know, I have recently finished the biggest
undertaking of my life so far, my first feature-length movie as
director, entitled The Last Lullaby. I'm extremely excited about the way the film turned out and am now beginning the next phase of the process, getting the word out about it and eventually selling it to a distributor.

The Last Lullaby is very much a homegrown Louisiana production. For those of you who do not know, I'm from Shreveport, Shreveport investors almost entirely financed the film, and we shot it almost entirely in and around the Shreveport area. It is my hope that Lullaby will spur other indigenous productions in the area. And, it is my feeling that the more Lullaby gets out into the world, the better it is for the entire local film industry.

I made the whole film in a very hands-on way and want to continue that approach all the way until the time that I sell it. To that end, I
have already created a website for the movie (which is somewhat rare at this stage) and have included a way on the website for people to
register so that I can send them updates as we move closer to putting
the film out into the world. We are a small-budget movie and have to
think in resourceful, "out of the box" ways to get our film on the
radar, along with the big boys. It is my belief that building this
base of support, through our website, is one of the best things we can
do to begin generating buzz about our great movie.

I would love for all of you to register on the website. I would also
love if you could pass the website information on to as many people as you would like and encourage them to register, as well. The more
people I have interested in seeing Lullaby by the time I am ready to
approach distributors, the more attractive the film will appear to
them. Feel free to send out mass e-mails to your co-workers or friends
and feel free to send the Lullaby info on to anyone, anywhere."

1. Go to www.thelastlullaby.com
2. Click on the "Register" tab at the top of the page.
3. Send an e-mail to register@thelastlullaby.com with "Register Me"
in the subject of the e-mail.

Will Bryant named Media Educator for Robinson Film Center, Shreveport; will aim programs at students and at adults


Will Bryant, Shreveport
Originally uploaded by trudeau
Robinson Film Center's educational programming for 2008, which will include summer camps, filmmaking workshops at local schools and programs to help educators acquire media skills, will be helmed by Will Bryant, the RFC's new Media Educator.

Bryant says of the programs, "It's not just for kids -- we're also planning educational programming for adults: screening series with guest speakers or filmmakers in attendance, continuing ed classes, screenwriting workshops, training for professionals, programming aimed at seniors, you name it!"

Bryant continues, "It's our hope that the Film Center will be a place where aspiring filmmakers can interface with not just industry professionals, but with each other. In addition to the two-screen cinema, we will have an enormous multi-purpose space on the top floor that can be three classrooms, or two classrooms and a theater, or one big space showing different material on three screens."

RFC on Texas St is currently scheduled to open in February. Grand opening will be in May.


Will Bryant: (318) 424-9090, wbryant@robinsonfilmcenter.org

Noble Savage Tavern, 417 Tex St, Shreveport, has Hot Springs picker Levon Walkin Fri, Jan 18, 9 pm


Levon Walkin
Originally uploaded by trudeau
Levon Walkin has been a fixture on the Hot Springs, Arkansas, music
scene for more years than he cares to count, admits his press kit. His front porch pickin' style and unique vocals make the cover tunes sound like his own, but he's got original songs, too.

Walkin has five CD's to his credit, Trails Left, Walkin the Ball w/ Kathy Ball, Sweet 'n' Low Down w/ Jerry Jines, Back To Tulsa w/ Uncle Ricky Dicus and most recently a live recording from the historical Capone's Ohio Club.

Blue Martin says to expect a few local performers to join Walkin onstage at the Noble Savage Fri night, 9 to 11 pm.

Blue also says to check the Savage jazz jam led by Dirty Red Crenshaw on Thursday evenings.

Thursday, January 17, 2008

Texans Terri Hendrix and Lloyd Maines to rock the House Series at Fairfield Studios, Shreveport, Sat, Feb 2, 7 pm


ACL06_Terri_Hendrix_0116
Originally uploaded by Kingsnake
"Well here it is! My favorite performer and her ace sideman return to
Fairfield Studios for a return House Concert visit: Terri Hendrix and
Lloyd Maines," writes musician Jim Huckabay.

"Last time here, they sold out and are well on the way to doing the
same again. Make your reservations now, and I stress that you be at
the concert no later than 6:30 p.m. to guarantee your seat. This time around, seats are $20 and darn well worth it. Terry had the front cover of the fall issue of Texas Music Magazine and an extensive article. You can learn more on her website at terrihendrix.com. Lloyd
of course is a famous steel guitarist and multi instrumentalist who has
appeared on many a CD and is one of the most sought after producers in Texas music."

Reserve seats online at reservations@fairfieldstudios.com
220-0400.

Wednesday, January 16, 2008

Blanc et Noir Marching Society Costume Workshop at Artspace Shreveport, 710 Texas, Sun, Jan 20, 1 pm

"Blanc et Noir Marching Society is the krewe for artists inasmuch as the emphasis is on handmade, DIY costumes and masks and individual design. It's also the krewe for dancers since we do the second line over a 3.5 mile route," says society co-founder Jerry Davenport.

Find out more about Blanc et Noir and its role in the Krewe of Highland Parade at the Costume Workshop at 1 pm Sun, Jan 20.

"We will teach you to screen print a design on fabric with a freezer paper mask," says Annabel Trudeau. Also to be covered: face paint designs, umbrella decorating, felt emblems and banners and design motifs from New Orleans. Participants should bring their own fringe, spangles and special materials.

"Families are encouraged," says co-founder Robert Trudeau. "This is a krewe that emphasizes health - through walking and dancing - and minimal expense." Memberships are $30 each for adults ($60 per family) and teens. No charge for the children.

318-861-6809

Brenda McCart, Elyda Elwinger, Theresa Cowgill: South of the Border paintings on display at Barnwell Center, Shreveport, beginning Sun, Jan 20, 2 pm

South of the Border is the name of an exhibit opening in the Corridor Gallery at Barnwell Art Center on Sun, Jan 20. The display features work from travels in Mexico and Central America by painters Elyda Elwinger, Brenda McCart and Theresa Cowgill, says Freda Powell.


Say McCart, "Elyda, my art mentor, and I have traveled over the U.S., Mexico, C.A. and France to paint. Our French exhibit will be in 2 years." McCart's work currently hangs at both Artport, the year-long display at Shreveport Regional Airport, and at Prima Tazza.

The Barnwell:
Tuesday through Friday 10 am to 4 pm;
Saturday 10 am to 5 pm; and Sunday 1pm to 5 pm.
318-673-7703.

Reception Sun, Jan 20, 2 to 4 pm.

Sign o' the times at Lila's Bakery on Olive St, Shreveport: King Cake and free wi-fi

Lisa Tike, proprietor of Lila's Bakery, 440 Olive St, said she added a couple of things to the menu this week: King Cakes and free wireless internet service.

"Pat Gill, of the Shreveport-Bossier Convention and Tourism bureau, came by to say hello and said she's compiling a list of wi-fi spots in the area," said Lisa.

7 am to 6 pm
318-676-1407

Hank Stoer, MD: an Eighty-Year Retrospective of painting at Barnwell Art Center opens Sun, Jan 20; reception 2 - 4 pm

Opening Sun, Jan 20, at Shreveport's Barnwell Art Center, says Freda Powell, is the painting show entitled Dr. Hank Stoer: An Eighty Year Retrospective.

Stoer, a Shreveport pathologist who became a full-time artist after he retired in 1882, is known for his expressive use of color. The works in this show cover a span of more than 80 years ,from 1926 to 2007. A featured work in this exhibition is an award winner that was painted when the artist was nine years old.

“I’ve always loved to draw”, says Stoer. “My father use to bring home old ledgers pages when I was a little boy and I would use the back of these as my canvas. My mother soon took me to an art teacher, who lived up the street at the time, to help me develop my talent”. Stoer continues to create to this day.

The Barnwell Center is open Tuesday through Friday 10 am to 4 pm; Saturday 10 am to 5 pm; and Sunday 1pm to 5 pm. Info: 318-673-7703.

Opening Reception: Sunday, Jan 20, 2-4 pm.

Tuesday, January 15, 2008

Jerry Wray, Mary Virginia Hill, Kathy Brodnax, Diane DuFilho, Laura Noland-Harter, Graham Mears, Tama Nathan, Sue Wafer: Artspace, opening Thur

An exhibit called “Six” will bring visual art composed by a group of highly-regarded Shreveport-area artists to Artspace beginning Thurs, Jan 17, says Pam Atchison.

Kathy Brodnax, Diane DuFilho, Laura Noland-Harter, Graham Mears, Tama Nathan and Sue Wafer are the artists of the group show.
Six will offer subtle satire (Harter, DuFilho), ironic studies (Brodnax) humorous studies (Mears), mixed media (Nathan) and classics (Wafer).

Upstairs at Artspace viewers will find new work by Jerry Wray and Mary Virginia Hill in an exhibit entitled Experiments in Color.

In The Times writer Donecia Pea has penned a background piece on the show. And at Tama Nathan's blog, Shreveport Images, there is also a brief on the show.

With that many artists under one roof, expect Artspace to rock on Thurs eve. Viewing begins at 5:30 pm.

SRAC: 673-6500

Monday, January 14, 2008

Christian Simeon performs solo at Noble Savage, downtown Shreveport, on Wed, Jan 16, 8 pm


Christian Simeon & Outlaw Nation
Originally uploaded by trudeau
Christian Simeon has put in many, many hours with a mic, acoustic guitar and smoky audience, coast-to-coast. He's got a band called Outlaw Nation, but when the band is idle, Christian will do the numbers.

Check him at Noble Savage Wed, Jan 16, 8 pm.

KSCL Battle of the Bands to be held Feb 19 at Centenary College; bands and performers send mp3's to 91.3 fm

In conjunction with Centenary College's homecoming events, KSCL 91.3 FM will be holding its 5th annual Battle of the Bands. The event will take place on Tuesday, Feb 19, in the Shell Amphitheatre beginning at 5:30 pm. KSCL is seeking eight bands and/ or performers from any genre of music. These performers can be groups or solo acts, says Jon Schleuss.

Prizes are 1st: $300, 2nd: $150, 3rd: $50

Bands and artists wishing to participate should send demos to ksclbotb@gmail.com (mp3 or other digital format) or
KSCL 91.3 FM, 2911 Centenary Blvd., Shreveport, LA 71104 (CDs).

Jon Schleuss at (318) 869-5296.

Sunday, January 13, 2008

Multicultural Center for the South, Shreveport, presents workshop for writers, illustrators by author Bill Long on Sat, Jan 19, 1:30 pm

Dr. Bill Long, editor and illustrator of the children’s book, Job’s Journey, will present a two-hour seminar on Sat, January 19, at the Multicultural Center of the South on “How to Use Adobe Illustrator to prepare educational materials and children’s literature.”

The free seminar will run from 1:30 until 3:30p.m., says Janice Gatlin of MCCS. It is designed for educators and librarians.

“Adobe Illustrator is a power resource for teachers and others interested in writing and illustrating children’s literature in both print and video formats. In this seminar, I will demonstrate how Adobe Illustrator can be used for drawing, painting, preparing text, paginating and producing final print and video documents,” Long explained.

For more info or to pre-register (space is limited), please call Janice Gatlin at 424-1380.

Fairfield Studios, Shreveport, site of Olivia Newton-John recording session for TV series Sordid Lives


Dana McCommon & ONJ, Shreveport
Originally uploaded by trudeau
Wrote Alex Kent in the Times' Louisiana Movies blog, "Last weekend, Olivia Newton-John wandered into Fairfield Studios in Shreveport to record five songs for "Sordid Lives," a TV series currently being shot in Shreveport.

Fairfield Studio's Dana McCommon (pictured) was a fan of hers and remains a fan. Along with producer/writer Amy Sky, they spent 20-plus hours recording the tracks. "She's as impressive as you'd think someone with a 40-year music career would be," McCommon said."

From her wikipedia.org bio: "In 2000, she appeared in a dramatically different role as Bitsy Mae Harling, a lesbian ex-con country singer, in Del Shores' Sordid Lives. (Newton-John will reprise this role in 2008 for Sordid Lives - The Series on the LOGO television network.)"

Saturday, January 12, 2008

Andres Segovia and compadres on Classical Guitarist on Fridays at 11 am on Red River Radio


Segovia - Classical Guitarist
Originally uploaded by architekt2
Red River Radio, public radio network based in Shreveport, brings the classical guitar to listeners with the addition of the nationally popular program “Classical Guitar Alive!”

Beginning January 18, says Kermit Poling, the one-hour weekly program is set to air Fridays at 11 a.m.

Says Poling, “Classical guitar has a large following around the world and this is a quality classical guitar program that we expect to be well received.”

“Classical Guitar Alive!” is hosted by award-winning solo and chamber guitarist Tony Morris. The program brings listeners the classical repertory of the world's most-played musical instrument in many of musical settings, from solo guitar to guitar with orchestra, to every imaginable combination in between.

The program airs on 200 stations nationally and in 130 countries worldwide.

The program can be heard online at www.redriverradio.org.

Friday, January 11, 2008

Shreveport's Peter Pan Players present Happy Birthday Mr BB Wolf Fri - Sun, Jan 11, 12, 13, at Marjorie Lyons Playhouse

Don't be surprised to find someone you know in the vast cast of the Peter Pan Players production of "Happy Birthday, Mr BB Wolf." There are over 40 people putting on the show.

Their winning production has 3 performances remaining: Fri, Jan 11, 7:30 pm and matinees on Sat, at 2 pm and 4:30 pm, and Sun at 2 pm.

Times critic Alex Kent found numerous things to like in the show's first night. He said, "Under the leadership of Trey Jackson, the company seems to be finding its groove in warm-hearted storytelling . . . Peter Pan Players does an effective job of conjuring up a storybook atmosphere by filling the stage with bright, colorful costumes and pop-up book-style flashback scenery of forest-scapes."

Winning praise from Kent were John-Michael Strange, who plays the elderly Mr. B.B. Wolf. " His chemistry with Jamie Sanders, who plays Mr. Hunter, is especially amusing. The evening's best performance comes from Peggy Jackson, who plays the ever-youthful Old Lady Hood. When mocked by others for still wearing a ridiculously childish get-up, she pays no mind. She's all excitement, all enthusiasm and all kinds of funny." By the way, Peggy Jackson is the director's mom.

See more at the PPP blog

Box Office: 869-5242; open 11:00 to 4:00.
$10 for kids 12 and under and $15 for adults..

Thursday, January 10, 2008

Susan Garner, teen promoter, provides Shreveport with indie rock at all-age venues such as Big D's BBQ


Susan Garner, Shreveport
Originally uploaded by trudeau
“We’ve got this hobo culture thing happening today,” said Susan Garner, events producer who over the past year has brought a circus tent’s worth of alternative music to Shreveport. “These are musicians and poets who are booking themselves into little venues from town to town and are willing to sleep on someone’s couch.”

Today Garner gets emails from across the country from indie groups willing to perform at alternative sites. Her favorite venue is a restaurant on the run-down side of town, a place for which she created a myspace page: Big D’s BarBQ.

“Big D’s has a great reputation among musicians,” she says of the shop run by food veteran Hosea 'Big D' Williams. One of the reasons she favors Big D’s is her feeling that Shreveport needs to have more all-age shows. She produced a number of events at coffee shop Java Junction, now defunct, and has also brought music to the Body Electric Tattoo Parlor. Bands perform outdoors at Big D's, corner of Caddo and Common Sts.

Garner is a hard-working, often-green-haired events producer who is not neglecting business at school, which is Caddo Magnet High. A senior, she is taking Advanced Placement English and art and took two AP history classes last year. She is a National Merit Semi-finalist (one of 21 at Caddo Magnet), a member of the Latin Club and president of Leadbelly Society.

On Jan 14 Garner presents:
Monadnoc, a Chicago poet.
The Noids!; garage rock from Paul Garner's (her brother) trio.
8pm
$5

Wednesday, January 09, 2008

Anne Susman named executive director of Bossier Arts Council; Richard Folmer continues as artistic director and director at East Bank Theater


Anne Susman, Carolyn Nelson
Originally uploaded by trudeau
The board of the Bossier Arts Council recently announced the promotion of Anne Susman to the position of Executive Director. She will lead the organization in providing arts services and programming to the citizens of Bossier City and the parish.

Ms. Susman joined the Bossier Arts Council in 2004 as the Community Development Coordinator and workeded on projects such as Stage Manager for East Bank Theatre productions, ArtBreak Idol, and numerous parish-and state-wide art events.

Ms. Susman is credited with expanding the Bossier Arts Council’s Art-in-Education programming and Summer Creativity Camp, as well as developing and maintaining ongoing relationships with local and state level arts organizations, including RUPAR, the Rural Underserved Presenters and Representatives Network.

The position of Executive Director was recently vacated when Richard Folmer, Artistic Director for the Bossier Arts Council, stepped down so he could focus his attention on East Bank Theatre while pursuing his film and acting career.

Milwaukee's Skylight Opera Theater hires Shreveport Opera manager-director Eric Dillner after successful 7 years in Shreveport


Eric Dilner, Ashley Evans
Originally uploaded by trudeau
Eric Dillner has been named the new managing director for the Skylight Opera Theatre, says the Business Journal of Milwaukee.

Dillner served the past seven years as Shreveport (La.) Opera's general director and artistic director.

"We are thrilled with the depth and breadth of Mr. Dillner's leadership in arts management, directing, teaching and performance," said Suzanne Hefty, the Skylight's board president-elect and chair of the search committee.

As administrator at the Shreveport Opera, Dillner more than doubled the company's operating income and secured the company's largest corporate and individual donations in its 59-year history, continues the Journal.

The Shreveport Opera's annual budget is about $770,000, according to the nonprofit organization's 2006 tax filing. That total compares with The Skylight's budget of about $3 million.

Dillner will join the Skylight March 5.

Tuesday, January 08, 2008

Evening of Art Series, Fri, Jan 11, 6:30 pm, Bossier Arts Council Annex; West Edge Artists Co-op presents Robert Trudeau

Sketching, photography, videography, soundscapes, multi-media mash-ups and blogging: artist Robert Trudeau will discuss his polymorphous pursuits on Friday, Jan 11.

The presentelium will be held in the Bossier Arts Council Annex (the new building on the river side of the brick one) at the generous request of Danielle Reans and the West Edge Artists Co-op Evening of Art Series.

Trudeau will turn on the projector and mixer at 6:30 pm and be done before 7:30 pm. The door opens at 5:30.


Refreshments.
Media galore.
318-861-6809.


ShreveportBlog
ShreveportFaces
How to Mardi Gras
Blanc et Noir Marching Society
Robert Trudeau Art
YouTube/trudeau11

Why do I call the Bayou State 'LouisiAfrica'? A coinage that reflects historic perspective

Nicki Danels recently wrote, "Just curious; why do you call it LouisiAfrica?"

Nicki,
As a specialist in Louisiana history I coined the term LouisiaiAfrica when I realized there should be some way of recognizing the fact that both Europeans and African-Americans worked together to creat the Bayou State's best elements. Creole cooking, zydeco, jazz, even Cajun music, Mardi Gras style, etc. I could go on and on with perspective and evidence.

Thanks for reading!

Robert