484. Mercedes Schneider

484. We talk to Mercedes Schneider about school 'reform'.  According to Mercedes, “'Corporate reform' is not reform at all. Instead, it is the systematic destruction of the foundational American institution of public education. The primary motivation behind this destruction is greed. Public education in America is worth almost a trillion dollars a year. Whereas American public education is a democratic institution, its destruction is being choreographed by a few wealthy, well-positioned individuals and organizations. This book investigates and exposes the handful of people and institutions that are often working together to become the driving force behind destroying the community public school.”

1. This week in Louisiana history. August 28, 1956. Lake Pontchartrain Causeway opened.
2. This week in New Orleans history. Congregation Beth Israel on Canal Boulevard, whose seven Torah scrolls were destroyed in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, dedicated a new Torah on August 27, 2006 -- one year after the man-made catastrophe.
   
3. This week in Louisiana.
   Jimmie Davis State Park
   1209 State Park Road
   Chatham, LA 71226
   318-249-2595
   1-888-677-2263
   jimmiedavis@crt.la.gov
   Take a dip in the cool waters of this remote north Louisiana getaway.
   Named after one of Louisiana’s most beloved governors (and, fun fact: the man who wrote state song “You Are My Sunshine”), Jimmie Davis State Park is a charming waterfront refuge on the shores of Caney Creek Reservoir. It’s popular with families, fishermen, cyclists and campers. Thanks to the park’s unique geography, located on a narrow peninsula with numerous inlets, you’re never more than a skipping-stone’s throw away from the water. That’s just one reason why boaters and fishermen rave about Jimmie Davis State Park. Another is because of what lies beneath — absolutely huge, trophy- and grill-worthy fish. The hilly upland forest, just 30 miles from the state’s highest peak, entices mountain bikers and hikers. For a more serene experience, this pine and hardwood forest serves as a backdrop for picnics, lazing about on the beach, and watching the younger visitors let loose on the playgrounds. Bed down in one of the park’s lakefront cabins, group lodges or RV camp spots. For extra large groups, Jimmie Davis State Park offers dormitories with a dining hall and a designated playground and pier. Entrance fee: $3 per person; free for seniors age 62 and older, and children age 3 and younger. Go fishing on the Caney Creek Reservoir!
   Website.
   
4. Postcards from Louisiana. Jimmy Buffett at Jazz Fest.

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