554. Derby Gisclair, Part 2

554. Part 2 of our interview of Derby Gisclair about his newest book, New Orleans Steamboat Stories – The Brief Lives of Mississippi Riverboats. "Steamboats shaped America’s future, its economy, and its culture while expanding trade and expanding the country’s footprint into new territories. This economic expansion was not limited to New Orleans, but also to Cincinnati, St. Louis, Pittsburgh, Memphis, Louisville, Nashville, St. Paul, Kansas City, and Chattanooga. A round trip voyage from Pittsburgh to New Orleans that once took six months could now be accomplished in forty-five days. At the same time steamboats made it possible to circulate and disseminate the news and the mail, to spread the various immigrant cultures, food, and music. New Orleans Steamboat Stories contains stories of a handful of the different steamboats and the people who lived and worked on the Western rivers. They are brief in nature as the average life of a steamboat was generally short. But their impact culturally and commercially, esthetically and economically, made a lasting impact on the development of America" (Jefferson Parish).

1. This week in Louisiana history. December 23, 1813. Legislative Act #5 provides for official state seal.
2. This week in New Orleans history. Storyland Dedication, December 30, 1956. During the 1950s Storyland in City Park was filled with Nursery Rhyme figures created by a young man who would become the most noted Mardi Gras float builder in the city; it was funded by an older man who owned and operated the most popular amusement park in the south. 
   
3. This week in Louisiana.
   New Year's Eve in New Orleans
   Website
   New Orleans is the perfect place to ring in the new year. Whether you want to grab dinner and turn in for the night early, celebrate at a children’s event during the day, or party all night long, we’ve got something for everyone. Here’s how to celebrate New Year’s Eve in New Orleans.
        For the biggest party in the city, head to Jackson Square – the Quarter is packed with festive partygoers eager to countdown the time until the New Year arrives with the Fleur De Lis drop.
        If outdoor celebrations and big crowds are not for you, make a reservation at one of the city’s many fine restaurants and celebrate the evening over delectable meals and of course, lots of bubbly. Many restaurants offer special deals or packages for the evening, so make sure you check ahead to ensure the perfect night for you, your loved ones and friends. See here for our list of restaurants open for New Year’s Eve.
        Experience New Year's Eve like never before at Vue Orleans atop the Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans. This year, join the party 34 floors above the Mississippi River for a fireworks display to remember. Vue Orleans offers unmatched bird’s-eye views of the New Orleans fireworks, adult beverages, light passed appetizers, DJ music, and a champagne toast at midnight. The celebration begins at 10 p.m. Tickets are limited, must be 21 to purchase and attend.
   
4. Postcards from Louisiana. John Joyce band at dba.
   

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