308. Donna Pierite, part 1

308. Part 1 of our interview with Donna Pierite. Donna is part of the Tunica-Biloxi Museum and Cultural and Educational Resources Center Library. Their gift shop is at 151 Melancon Drive in Marksville, or at the LA1 Shop at Paragon Casino Resort next door. For more information, call (800) 272-9767. She, Elisabeth Pierite-Mora, and John D. Barbry have written a book, entitled The Tunica-Biloxi Tribe: It's Culture & People. Donna her daughter, son and brother (Steven Madere) wrote and produced Tawaka (in Tunica "sub-commander"), the language and culture page that appeared in the Tunica-Biloxi tribal newspaper. Along with her husband, children and her brother, Mrs. Pierite has given various presentations at schools, universities and other venues, including performances at the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival.

1. This week in Louisiana history. April 15, 1795. The Pointee Coupee Slave Rebellion.
2. This week in New Orleans history. Born in New Orleans on April 13, 1926, Cosimo Matassa is the recording engineer and studio owner responsible for nationally renowned R&B and rock and roll recordings at his New Orleans studios. Matassa described himself simply as a "sound engineer" in a July 19, 1981 Times-Picayune article written by John Pope. He went on to say that his formula for success was not complicated in any way..."Do it live or do it over again until it was done right". He did it right for hundreds of young unknown musicians including Ray Charles, Fats Domino, Mac Rebbenack (Dr. John), Mickey Gilly and so many more from 1945 through 1968 in his studio in the Quarter and later in the Central Business District.  J&M recorded Alan Toussaint's first record, "The Wild Side of New Orleans" which was released by RCA Victor.  He recorded Aaron Neville's "Tell it Like it Is", Robert Parker's "Barefootin'", and Little Richard's "Tutti Frutti" in 1956 — a recording which has been acclaimed as a seminal Rock and Roll song.
   
3. This week in Louisiana.
   46th Annual Street Rod Reunion
   April 13th, 2019
   7:00 am - 4:00 pm
   Boomtown Casino & Hotel
   300 Riverside Dr.
   Bossier City, LA 71111
   318-655-5838
   Website
   The Red River Street Rod Association Street Rod Reunion will be held at Boomtown Casino in Bossier City Louisiana. The event features  cars and trucks 30 years old and older. This event is free for spectators and open to the public. Come out and view stunning examples of Street Rods, Hot Rods, Custom Cars, Trucks. Food, music, entertainment, auction and fun.
   
4. Postcards from Louisiana. Bruce listens the the Milly Raccoon Band.

Listen on iTunes.
Listen on Stitcher.
Listen on Google Play.
Listen on Spotify.
The Louisiana Anthology Home Page.
Like us on Facebook.

307. Viola Fontenot, part 2

307. Part 2 of our interview with Viola Fontenot about her memoir, A Cajun Girl's Sharecropping Years. Viola is a sharecropper's daughter. Spanning from 1937 to 1955, Fontenot describes her life as the daughter of a share-cropper in Church Point, Louisiana, including details of field work as well as the domestic arts and Cajun culture. The account begins with stories from early life, where the family lived off a gravel road near the woods without electricity, running water, or bathrooms, and a mule-drawn wagon was the only means of transportation.

1. This week in Louisiana history. April 7, 1682. LaSalle and Tonti reached mouth of Miss. River.
2. This week in New Orleans history. Ground was broken for Tulane stadium on April 7, 1924.  It opened on October 23, 1926 with a seating capacity of roughly 35,000. New Orleans-Item sports editor Fred Digby popularized the term "Sugar Bowl" in 1927. The first Sugar Bowl game was played there on January 1, 1935, against the Philadelphia Temple Owls.  The last was on December 31, 1974 when Nebraska beat Florida 14-10. In 1947 the stadium was expanded to accommodate 80,985 fans. Lights were installed in 1957. It was the home of the  Saints, from their first game on September 17, 1967 when John Gilliam returned the opening kickoff 94 yards for a touchdown (but they lost 27-13 loss to the Los Angeles Rams) until December 8, 1974 when they won 14-0 over the St. Louis Cardinals. On November 8, 1970, Tom Dempsey made his record-breaking 63-yard field goal there, pushing the Saints into a 19-17 win over the Detroit Lions.
   
3. This week in Louisiana.
   Baton Rouge Blues Festival
   April 13th, 2019 - April 14th, 2019
   12:00 pm - 10:00 pm
   Downtown Baton Rouge
   200 North Blvd.,
   Baton Rouge, LA 70801
   225-612-2112
   Website
   The Baton Rouge Blues Festival is one of the oldest blues festivals in America. The free-to-the-public, family-friendly festival will feature internationally-recognized performers and local blues legends alike, including Mavis Staples, Kenny Neal & the Neal.Visitors and locals alike are encouraged to further their Baton Rouge blues experience beyond the festival at hangouts like Phil Brady's (with the longest-running 21-year Thursday night blues jam around) and the inimitable Teddy's Juke Joint.
   
4. Postcards from Louisiana. Joe Shedlo on Royal St.

Listen on iTunes.
Listen on Stitcher.
Listen on Google Play.
Listen on Spotify.
The Louisiana Anthology Home Page.
Like us on Facebook.

306. Viola Fontenot, part 1

306. Part 1 of our interview with Viola Fontenot about her memoir, A Cajun Girl's Sharecropping Years. Viola is a sharecropper's daughter. Spanning from 1937 to 1955, Fontenot describes her life as the daughter of a share-cropper in Church Point, Louisiana, including details of field work as well as the domestic arts and Cajun culture. The account begins with stories from early life, where the family lived off a gravel road near the woods without electricity, running water, or bathrooms, and a mule-drawn wagon was the only means of transportation.

1. This week in Louisiana history. March 31, 1807. St. John the Baptist Parish created (one of original parishes).
2. This week in New Orleans history. Delta Air Lines, Inc., DC-8, N802E, operating as Flight 9877, crashed during a landing approach to Runway 1 at New Orleans International Airport, Kenner, Louisiana, on March 30, 1967. Five crewmembers and an FAA observer were fatally injured. This was a training flight with no passengers aboard; however, impact occurred in a residential area and 13 persons on the ground were also killed.
   
3. This week in Louisiana.
   Water/Ways Smithsonian Exhibit
   February 24th, 2019 - April 6th, 2019
   10:00 am - 4:00 pm
   Jeanerette Museum
   500 E Main Street,
   Jeanerette, LA 70544
   337-276-4408
   Website | Email
   The Jeanerette Museum Board of Directors, in cooperation with Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities (LEH), will examine water as an environmental necessity and an important cultural element as it hosts “Water/Ways,” a traveling exhibition from the Smithsonian’s Museum on Main Street (MoMS) program. “Water/Ways” will be on view Feb. 24 through April 6 at the Jeanerette Museum located at 500 E. Main Street on the corner of Main St. and Moresi Alley, Jeanerette, LA.
   
4. Postcards from Louisiana. Bruce listens to a saxophone player in the French Quarter.

Listen on iTunes.
Listen on Stitcher.
Listen on Google Play.
Listen on Spotify.
The Louisiana Anthology Home Page.
Like us on Facebook.

305. Maida Owens, part 2

305. Part 2 of our interview with Maida Owens about the history of midwives in Louisiana. Maida, the director of the Louisiana Folklife Program , is a cultural anthropologist specializing in Louisiana traditional cultures. Owens has been with the Division of the Arts since 1986, during which time she has worked with organizations and researchers across the state to identify one of Louisiana's most important assets—its traditional folk artists in order to determine the most innovative and effective ways to present Louisiana's folk musicians, storytellers, and craftsmen to Louisiana citizens and the world. She was director of the Louisiana Crafts Marketing Program from 1986 until it ended in 2008.

1. This week in Louisiana history. March 25, 1793. Pope Pius VI established the Diocese of Louisiana.
2. This week in New Orleans history. The caption on the reverse side of this March 24, 1953. "New Orleans traffic, once blocked by obsolete old canal and numerous railroad tracks, now moves smoothly over S. Broad Overpass in center of city. This is one of 11 grade separation structures completed to date in New Orleans' integrated Union Passenger Terminal and grade separation program. Other projects are now now under construction."
   
3. This week in Louisiana.
   Louisiana Irish-Italian Parade
   March 24th, 2019
   Clearview Mall
   4436 Veterans Memorial Blvd.,
   Metairie, LA 70006
   504-731-7083
   Website
   In 1983 the first annual Louisiana Irish–Italian Parade rolled on the streets of Jefferson Parish. Bring the family and come celebrate the rich Irish-Italian culture of Louisiana with floats, marching bands, marching clubs, dancers, beads and so much more at the Louisiana Irish-Italian Parade!
   
4. Postcards from Louisiana. Bruce listens to a duet on Royal St.

Listen on iTunes.
Listen on Stitcher.
Listen on Google Play.
Listen on Spotify.
The Louisiana Anthology Home Page.
Like us on Facebook.

304. Maida Owens, part 1

304. Part 1 of our interview with Maida Owens about the history of midwives in Louisiana. Maida, the director of the Louisiana Folklife Program , is a cultural anthropologist specializing in Louisiana traditional cultures.  Owens has been with the Division of the Arts since 1986, during which time she has worked with organizations and researchers across the state to identify one of Louisiana's most important assets—its traditional folk artists in order to determine the most innovative and effective ways to present Louisiana's folk musicians, storytellers, and craftsmen to Louisiana citizens and the world. She was director of the Louisiana Crafts Marketing Program from 1986 until it ended in 2008.

1. This week in Louisiana history. March 17, 1791. Baron de Carondelet de Noyelles is appointed gov.-general of Louisiana.
2. This week in New Orleans history. On Saturday, March 16, 1957, Little Walter and his Fabulous Jukes performed at Dave Brown's Blue Eagle on Felicity at Saratoga Street. Billed as "King of the Harmonica Blues" Little Walter's hits included Midnight Rumble, Blues With a Feeling, Last Night, and  Juke.  The advertising poster for this show announced "Leave all blades and pistols at the door".
   
3. This week in Louisiana.
   Metairie Road St. Patrick's Day Parade
   March 17th, 2019
   Old Metairie
   1901 Severn Ave.,
   Metairie, LA 70001
   504-731-7083
   Website
   Founded in 1971, the St. Patrick's Parade of Metairie has been taking to the streets of Old Metairie for more than forty years! The parade consists of over 100 floats and trucks, bands, marching clubs, and all the carrots, cabbages, potatoes and beads you can catch! Bring the family and come celebrate the luck of the Irish at Jefferson Parish's Metairie Road St. Patrick's Day Parade!
   
4. Postcards from Louisiana. Bruce listens to the band at the Krazy Korner Bar on Bourbon St.

Listen on iTunes.
Listen on Stitcher.
Listen on Google Play.
Listen on Spotify.
The Louisiana Anthology Home Page.
Like us on Facebook.

 

303. Tonja Lee on Women's Healthcare

303. We interview Tonja Lee about women's access to healthcare in Louisiana. Tonja Lee is a sociologist in Baton Rouge and a scholar of women's studies.

1. This week in Louisiana history. March 12, 1817. Miss. Steamboat Navigation Co. seized Capt. H. Shreve's boat, the Washington.
2. This week in New Orleans history. "When I wrote and recorded 'Lawdy Miss Clawdy' back in 1952, it marked the birth of rock 'n' roll," said Price, who was inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame in 1998. "That song sold millions, and it was the introduction of music as we know it today."   Lloyd Price in an interview with Bill Herald of Examiner.com.  Born one of 11 children of Louis and Beatrice Price in Kenner on March 9, 1933, Lloyd Price had formal musical training in trumpet and piano, sang in his church's gospel choir, and was a member of a combo in high school. On March 9, 2010, his 77th Birthday, in New Orleans, Lloyd Price was inducted into The Louisiana Music Hall of Fame and on June 20, 2010, Price appeared and sang in season 1 finale of the HBO series "Treme."
   
3. This week in Louisiana.
   Black Heritage Festival
   March 9th, 2019
   Lake Charles Civic Center
   900 Lakeshore Dr.,
   Lake Charles, LA 70601
   337-436-9588
   Website
   The annual Black Heritage Festival will be held March 10, 2019 and will feature live entertainment, mouthwatering food, and great family fun. The festival brings together the cultures of Africa and Southwest Louisiana and highlights the best in the community. Celebrating diversity, culture and education, the festival is filled with legendary Zydeco, Jazz, R&B and Gospel performers.
   
4. Postcards from Louisiana. Bruce listens to Doreen the Clarinet Queen on Royal Street.

Listen on iTunes.
Listen on Stitcher.
Listen on Google Play.
Listen on Spotify.
The Louisiana Anthology Home Page.
Like us on Facebook.

 

302. Christine Koch Harris, part 2

302. Part 2 of our interview with Christine Koch Harris about her dissertation, Liminality in gender, race, and nation in Les Quarteronnes de la Nouvelle-Orléans by Sidonie de la Houssaye. This project examines themes of race, gender, and nation in a series of four novels by nineteenth-century Louisiana author Sidonie de la Houssaye. The series, called Les Quarteronnes de la Nouvelle-Orléans (The Quadroons of New Orleans), is based on the system of plaçage. Plaçage, a system of concubinage in which white men took women of mixed racial heritage (such as “quadroons”) as mistresses, becomes a source of conflict and contradiction in the series. The author sees plaçage as a tragic necessity for some educated and morally “upright” quarteronnes. For others, those quarteronnes depicted as libidinous and avaricious, it is a means of benefiting from the destruction of families from the upper echelons of white society.

1. This week in Louisiana history. March 3, 1964. John McKeithen elected as Governor.
2. This week in New Orleans history. Iberville and Bienville "Discover" the Mouth of the Mississippi. March 2, 1699. The celebration of Mardi Gras (Fat Tuesday) arrived in Louisiana with two Canadian brothers, Pierre Le Moyne, Sieur d’Iberville and Jean-Baptiste Le Moyne, Sieur de Bienville. Sent by Louis XIV to secure the territory of La Louisiane for France, the brothers’ expedition entered the mouth of the Mississippi on the evening of Monday, March 2, 1699. Their party continued upstream to a spot on the west bank (about 60 miles downriver from present-day New Orleans) and encamped. This was the following day, Tuesday, March 3, 1699, which was Mardi Gras day. In honor of this European holiday, expedition leader Iberville named the site Pointe du Mardi Gras and the connecting tributary Bayou Mardi Gras.
   
3. This week in Louisiana.
   Cajun Country Courir de Mardi Gras
   February 9th, 2018 - February 13th, 2018
   Various Locations in Eunice, LA
   Downtown Eunice, 300 S. Second St.,
   Eunice, LA 70535
   337-457-7389
   Website | Email
       This unique five day celebration is not your typical idea of Mardi Gras with beads and doubloons. In fact you won't find these trinkets in sight, but instead, men and women on horseback donned in hand crafted wire masks, tall hats called capuchons, and very distinctive costumes. This one of a kind celebration begins the Friday before Mardi Gras Day, but the main event is the Courir de Mardi Gras procession or "chicken run" which involves chasing a live chicken to collect for a community gumbo, and silliness by revelers all day. Don't wait till Fat Tuesday to join in the fun. Throughout the weeked, experience the town's rural traditions with jam sessions, street dances, cooking demos, Mardi Gras exhibits and a special Liberty Theater show. Les Jeunes and L'il Mardi Gras runs for children are on Sunday as well as an old time boucherie (hog butchering).
       The Eunice Courir de Mardi Gras dates back from when the town was first established in the late 19th century. The Courir was abandoned for a few years during World War II, but in 1946 a small band of riders revived the tradition. Today, the Eunice Courir de Mardi Gras has more than 2,000 participants on the run, and it continues to increase each year.
   
4. Postcards from Louisiana. Bruce listens to the Sidewalk Swingers on Royal Street.

Listen on iTunes.
Listen on Stitcher.
Listen on Google Play.
Listen on Spotify.
The Louisiana Anthology Home Page.
Like us on Facebook.

301. Christine Koch Harris, part 1.

301. Part 1 of our interview with Christine Koch Harris about her dissertation, Liminality in gender, race, and nation in Les Quarteronnes de la Nouvelle-Orléans by Sidonie de la Houssaye. This project examines themes of race, gender, and nation in a series of four novels by nineteenth-century Louisiana author Sidonie de la Houssaye. The series, called Les Quarteronnes de la Nouvelle-Orléans (The Quadroons of New Orleans), is based on the system of plaçage. Plaçage, a system of concubinage in which white men took women of mixed racial heritage (such as “quadroons”) as mistresses, becomes a source of conflict and contradiction in the series. The author sees plaçage as a tragic necessity for some educated and morally “upright” quarteronnes. For others, those quarteronnes depicted as libidinous and avaricious, it is a means of benefiting from the destruction of families from the upper echelons of white society.

1. This week in Louisiana history. February 24, 1843. Bossier Parish created out of Natchitoches District, named for Pierre E. Bossier.
2. This week in New Orleans history. New Orleans first iIlluminated Carnival Bicycle Parade was held on February 23, 1887.
   
3. This week in Louisiana.
   Krewe of Barkus and Meoux Mardi Paw Pet Parade
   February 24th, 2019
   12:00 pm - 4:00 pm
   RiverView Park
   601 Clyde Fant Pkwy,
   Shreveport, LA 71101
   318-752-2287
   Website
   The Mardi Paw Pet Parade sponsored by the local animal krewe will be held at Reves Marine Center in Shreveport on Sunday, February 24 at 12 p.m.  All animals are invited to participate. Animal costumes encouraged. Prizes will be awared. Free for spectators.
   
4. Postcards from Louisiana. Bruce listens to a brass band at Royal and Toulouse Streets.

Listen on iTunes.
Listen on Stitcher.
Listen on Google Play.
Listen on Spotify.
The Louisiana Anthology Home Page.
Like us on Facebook.

300. Erin Stewart Mauldin

300. We interview Erin Stewart Mauldin about her book, Unredeemed Land. "Unredeemed Land is the first book to place the Civil War and emancipation at the center of the history of southern agriculture. Mauldin reveals how landscape destruction and social upheaval intersected with environmental change during these events, ultimately creating the Cotton South. Unredeemed Land is a must-read for anyone interested in southern history and environmental studies" (Megan Kate Nelson). — "Trained as an Environmental Historian, my work explores the intersection of race, economic inequality, and environment in the 19th-century U.S. South, bridging the antebellum, Civil War, and Reconstruction periods. I borrow heavily from the natural sciences, geography, and environmental sociology to reframe the big questions of nineteenth-century southern history: slavery as capitalism, the impacts of the Civil War and emancipation on southern agriculture, economic stagnation in the shadow of 'King Cotton,' and, more recently, the twin processes of industrialization and urbanization."

1. This week in Louisiana history. February 18, 1699. Iberville sets out in search of the east fork of the Mississippi River.
2. This week in New Orleans history. On February 16, 1840, Margaret Haughery opened the first of four orphanages.
   
3. This week in Louisiana.
   Krewe of Janus Mardi Gras Parade
   February 16th, 2019
   6:00 pm - 10:00 pm
   Streets of Monroe/West Monroe, LA
   Trenton St. in West Monroe, Louisville Ave and Downtown Monroe,
   Monroe, LA 71201
   318-323-0230
   Website
   The Krewe of Janus brings a family-friendly, traditional Mardi Gras Parade with marching units, floats, costumes and throws to Northeast Louisiana. This is an annual event with an average of 175,000 in attendance. The parade rolls at 6:00 p.m., starting in downtown West Monroe and crossing the bridge into Monroe. 2019 will be our 36th year.
   
4. Postcards from Louisiana. Bruce listens to Nathan & the Zydeco Cha Chas.

Listen in iTunes.
Listen in Stitcher.
Listen on Google Play.
The Louisiana Anthology Home Page.
Like us on Facebook.

299. Kalamu ya Salaaam, part 2.

299. Part 2 of our interview with Kalamu ya Salaam. Kalamu is an American poet, author, filmmaker, and teacher from the 9th Ward of New Orleans. A well-known activist and social critic, Salaam has spoken out on a number of racial and human rights issues. For years he did radio shows on WWOZ. Salaam is the co-founder of the NOMMO Literary Society, a weekly workshop for Black writers.  

1. This week in Louisiana history. February 9, 1718. Bienville appointed Gov. of colony, replacing L'Epinay.
2. This week in New Orleans history. On February 9, 1979, officers of the New Orleans Police Department went on strike. The teamsters protested recognition of the local Fraternal Order of Police. Mayor Dutch Morial declared the stirke an illegal work stop.
   
3. This week in Louisiana.
   February 15th, 2019
   Shreveport Convention
   400 Caddo St,
   Shreveport, LA 71101
   518-828-6270
   Website
   Krewe De Les Femmes Mystique Grand Bal 2019 will be held at Shreveport Convention Center on Friday, February 15 , at 6:30 p.m ; Tableau presentation is at 7:30 p.m. Adult admission is $75. There will be a royal preview party from 6 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., cash bar, buffet and plenty of entertainment. The attire is black tie.
   
4. Postcards from Louisiana. Bruce listens to the Tip Jar Junkies on Royal St.

Listen in iTunes.
Listen in Stitcher.
Listen on Google Play.
The Louisiana Anthology Home Page.
Like us on Facebook.

298. Kalamu ya Salaam, part 1

298. Part 1 of our interview with Kalamu ya Salaam (born March 24, 1947) is an American poet, author, filmmaker, and teacher from the 9th Ward of New Orleans. A well-known activist and social critic, Salaam has spoken out on a number of racial and human rights issues. For years he did radio shows on WWOZ. Salaam is the co-founder of the NOMMO Literary Society, a weekly workshop for Black writers.

1. This week in Louisiana history. February 5, 1883. First train service from New Orleans to California
2. This week in New Orleans history. Earth, Wind, & Fire's Al McKay is born February 2, 1948. Guitarist, songwriter, producer, former member of Earth, Wind & Fire, and the recipient of five Grammy Awards, Al McKay was born in New Orleans on February 2, 1948.
   
3. This week in Louisiana.
   February 8th, 2019
   6:30 pm - 12:00 am
   Sam’s Town Casino and Hotel
   315 Clyde Fant Pkwy,
   Shreveport, LA 71101
   318-382-2150
   Website
   Krewe des Ambassadeurs Grand Bal will be held at Sam's Town Casino and Hotel in Shreveport on Friday, February 8 at 6:30 p.m. Adult admission is $80. The event is black tie, with a cash bar and a band to entertain after the presentation.
   
4. Postcards from Louisiana. Bruce & Kerr listen to a jazz trumpet in Jackson Square.

Listen in iTunes.
Listen in Stitcher.
Listen on Google Play.
The Louisiana Anthology Home Page.
Like us on Facebook.

297. Jason Berry

297. We interview Jason Berry, author of City of a Million Dreams: A History of New Orleans at Year 300. Berry orchestrates a parade of vibrant personalities, from the founder Bienville, a warrior emblazoned with snake tattoos; to Governor William C. C. Claiborne, General Andrew Jackson, and Pere Antoine, an influential priest and secret agent of the Inquisition; Sister Gertrude Morgan, a street evangelist and visionary artist of the 1960s; and Michael White, the famous clarinetist who remade his life after losing everything in Hurricane Katrina. The textured profiles of this extraordinary cast furnish a dramatic narrative of the beloved city, famous the world over for mysterious rituals as people dance when they bury their dead.

1. This week in Louisiana history. January 26, 1958. Ellen DeGeneres , comedian, who starred in the popular talk show The Ellen DeGeneres Show from Metairie, LA.
2. This week in New Orleans history. Huey "Piano" Smith (born January 26, 1934, New Orleans, is an American rhythm and blues pianist whose sound was influential in the development of rock and roll. His piano playing incorporated the boogie styles of Pete Johnson, Meade Lux Lewis, Albert Ammons; the jazz style of Jelly Roll Morton and the piano playing of Fats Domino. Allmusic journalist, Steve Huey, also noted "At the peak of his game, Smith epitomized New Orleans R&B at its most infectious and rollicking, as showcased on his classic signature tune, "Don't You Just Know It."
   
3. This week in Louisiana.
   Opelousas Gumbo Cook-Off
   January 26, 2019
   603 E Landry St., Opelousas
   Website
   The annual Opelousas Gumbo Cook-Off held the last Saturday in January heats up with live music, a kids’ activity area, both silent and live auctions, food, drinks, dancing, and lots of gumbo. While this is a free event, the entry fee to participate in the cook-off is $50. Prizes are awarded for first place champion, second place, and third place. In addition, a specially designed Gumbo Cook-Off Champ Paddle will be passed from the reigning champ to a new contender. Winners of the cook-off will be announced at 4 p.m.
   
4. Postcards from Louisiana. Bruce & Kerr interview some volunteers at the Fried Chicken Festival in New Orleans.

Listen in iTunes.
Listen in Stitcher.
Listen on Google Play.
The Louisiana Anthology Home Page.
Like us on Facebook.

296. James Lewis on Aaron Burr

296. James Lewis talks about his book, The Burr Conspiracy: Uncovering the Story of an Early American Crisis. In 1805 and 1806, Aaron Burr, former vice president of the newly formed American republic, traveled through the Trans-Appalachian West gathering support for a mysterious enterprise, for which he was arrested and tried for treason in 1807. This book explores the political and cultural forces that shaped how Americans made sense of the uncertain rumors and reports about Burr’s intentions and movements, and examines what the resulting crisis reveals about their anxieties concerning the new nation’s fragile union and uncertain republic.

1. This week in Louisiana history. January 21, 1736. Jean Louis, a sailor, died leaving 10,000 livres to found N.O. charity hospital.
2. This week in New Orleans history. Father Antonio de Sedella, better known as Pere Antoine, a Capuchin friar, passed away on January 19, 1829 amid the love and tears of the whole city. The beloved priest came to the province of Louisiana in 1779. He is supposed to have performed nearly one half of the marriage and funeral ceremonies for the inhabitants of the city, until his death, at the ripe old age of 90. He lies buried at the foot of the altar of the St. Louis Cathedral, of which he was the Cure (or pastor) for the parish, for nearly fifty years. The St. Louis Cathedral, an ancient and interesting edifice of New Orleans facing Jackson Square or “Place d’Arms” as it was known in those days, stands today on the very site where the first house of worship was erected by Bienville and his pioneers in 1718. It is filled with historic lore and has witnessed the principal events which occurred since the founding of the city up to the present time.
   
3. This week in Louisiana. 
   Krewe of Harambee Parade
   January 21st, 2019
   Downtown Shreveport
   Spring ST,
   Shreveport, LA 71101
   318-617-7886
   Website
   This family-friendly parade rolls through downtown Shreveport each year celebrating the legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr. It features marching bands, stilt-walkers, dozens of floats and more.
   
4. Postcards from Louisiana. Bruce & Lisa Walker talk to the granddaughter of Leah Chase at Dooky Chase. Yeah, the chicken was delicious.

Listen in iTunes.
Listen in Stitcher.
Listen on Google Play.
The Louisiana Anthology Home Page.
Like us on Facebook.

295. Patrick Horn

295. This week, we interview Patrick Horn. He is the author of Pad Pennywell, which covers the Kimbrell-West Clan in central Louisiana. During post Civil War era reconstruction, former slave Pad Pennywell had hopes of starting a new life with his wife, daughter and adopted family in Texas. Little did Pad know that his life was about to be torn apart, when his family is brutalized by a band of thieves and murderers along the Harrisonburg Rd, a stretch of trail that connects the Natchez trace with the El Camino Real. Taken captive by John West, a psychopathic murderer who’s charm and hypocrisy are only matched by his lust for blood and money 

1. This week in Louisiana history. January 13, 1818. Noah Ludlow opens St. Philip Street Theatre.
2. This week in New Orleans history. Daniel "Danny" Moses Barker was born on January 13, 1909, in New Orleans. Born into a musical family, his interest in jazz came early. His grandfather, Isidore Barbarin, had been a member of the great Onward Brass Band. Clarinetist Barney Bigard, who played with Duke Ellington, gave Danny lessons in clarinet. His uncle, the great jazz drummer Paul Barbarin, also taught him how to play the drums. Nonetheless, when it came to playing music, Danny settled on the banjo and guitar as his favorite instruments.
   
3. This week in Louisiana.
   January 17^th, 2019
   6:30 pm - 8:30 pm
   Alexandria Museum of Art
   933 Second St (Main St),
   Alexandria, LA 71301
   318-443-3458
   Website
   AMoA AfterHours
   Every Third Thursday of the month, Alexandria Museum of Art opens the doors to the community for its AfterHours programing. Each quarter, there will be a concert, a free community art project, and a "Renegade Tour" (Free Art Tour designed for Adults). The rotation varies per quarter, so visit www.themuseum.org for more information.
   
4. Postcards from Louisiana. Bruce, Jeff, & Jon Magee listen to the Crooked Vines in New Orleans.

Listen in iTunes.
Listen in Stitcher.
Listen on Google Play.
The Louisiana Anthology Home Page.
Like us on Facebook.

294. Dolph Williams, part 2

294. Part 2 of our interview with Dolph Williams, founder of the Frosty Factory in Ruston, LA. founder of the Frosty Factory in Ruston, LA. After his mother invented the frozen daiquiri, Dolph used his engineering skills to build the machines to make them. When Dolph Williams asked his suppliers to develop larger-capacity machines, manufacturers scoffed and suggested that they saw no need. Necessity reawakened Williams’ Louisiana Tech engineering education in construction technology. His earlier lessons in calculating and designing bridges proved useful as he created his own version of a frozen daiquiri machine. Beginning with sketches on the back of a brown paper grocery bag, Williams soon had crafted a machine that could produce 12 gallons of alcohol slush per hour. These Ruston experiments contributed crucial innovations to the realm of frozen alcoholic beverages. Now the frozen daiquiri is a staple of Louisiana culture, and has spread far beyond the state.

1. This week in Louisiana history. January 5, 1987. Pistol Pete Maravich inducted into Basketball Hall of Fame.
2. This week in New Orleans history. Laten John Adams (January 5, 1932 – September 14, 1998), known as Johnny Adams, was an American blues, jazz and gospel singer, known as "The Tan Canary" for the multi-octave range of his singing voice, his swooping vocal mannerisms and falsetto. His biggest hits were his versions of "Release Me" and "Reconsider Me" in the late 1960s.
   
3. This week in Louisiana.
   January 11th, 2019
   Downtown Cameron
   512 Marshall Street,
   Cameron, LA 70631
   337-540-9449
   Website
   "ONE OF THE OLDEST AND COLDEST FESTIVALS IN LOUISIANA" What sportsman could resist a weekend of competition - Cameron style? Trap shooting, retriever dog trials, duck and goose calling, nutria and muskrat skinning, and oyster shucking contests, crowning of the new Fur & Wildlife Festival King & Queen(who receives a gorgeous fur coat as part of her prize package). Fun, Food, and most importantly....FUR!!!!
4. Postcards from Louisiana. Bruce listens to the New Birth Brass Band in Jackson Square, New Orleans.

Listen in iTunes.
Listen in Stitcher.
Listen on Google Play.
The Louisiana Anthology Home Page.
Like us on Facebook.

293. Dolph Williams, part 1.

293. Part 1 of our interview with Dolph Williams, founder of the Frosty Factory in Ruston, LA. After his mother invented the frozen daiquiri, Dolph used his engineering skills to build the machines to make them. When Dolph Williams asked his suppliers to develop larger-capacity machines, manufacturers scoffed and suggested that they saw no need. Necessity reawakened Williams’ Louisiana Tech engineering education in construction technology. His earlier lessons in calculating and designing bridges proved useful as he created his own version of a frozen daiquiri machine. Beginning with sketches on the back of a brown paper grocery bag, Williams soon had crafted a machine that could produce 12 gallons of alcohol slush per hour. These Ruston experiments contributed crucial innovations to the realm of frozen alcoholic beverages. Now the frozen daiquiri is a staple of Louisiana culture, and has spread far beyond the state.

1. This week in Louisiana history. December 29, 1898. Monument to Public School benefactor John McDonogh dedicated in New Orleans.
2. This week in New Orleans history. The cornerstone of the Southern Regional Research Laboratory had been set on December 29, 1939 in the 40 acre building site at 2100 Robert E. Lee Boulevard. This area had formerly abutted the grounds of Spanish Fort amusement park and resort. It was here that local scientists developed wash-n-wear cotton, the predecessor of Permanent Press.
   
3. This week in Louisiana.
   New Year's Eve in New Orleans
      New Orleans, we celebrate New Year's Eve a little bit different from most places. Sure, we have funny hats and noisemakers (if you want them), but we add a little pizzazz to the occasion by ringing in the New Year our own way.
      For the biggest party in the city, head down to Jackson Square – the Quarter is packed with festive partygoers eager to count down the time until the New Year arrives. And because New Orleans does everything a little differently, don’t expect your run of the mill New Years ball drop; instead “Baby New Year” drops from its perch on the top of Jax Brewery followed by a magnificent fireworks show over the Mississippi. Follow the crowds to Bourbon Street and party til’ the early morning, or break away from the group and find your own special spot to celebrate in.
4.  Postcards from Louisiana. Bruce listens to the New Orleans Swinging Gypsies at the Spotted Cat Bar on Frenchman Street in New Orleans.

Listen in iTunes.
Listen in Stitcher.
Listen on Google Play.
The Louisiana Anthology Home Page.
Like us on Facebook.

292. John LaFleur II, part 2

292. Part 2 of our interview with John LaFleur II, author of Their Voices, Their Hands, and Their Gifts: Louisiana's Creole Food & Culture A Menu of Diversity. Owner / operator / entrepreneur at John LaFleur's New Orleans, Director / Manager / Creole Gourmet chef at John LaFleur's Louisiana Creole Guesthouse & Kitchen and Former Saturday French News Announcer in Ville Platte, Louisiana at KVPI Radio Past: New Orleans' Save Our Cemeteries" & Basin Street Tourist Center.

1. This week in Louisiana history. December 22, 1814. British began moving to attack New Orleans.
2. This week in New Orleans history. Alvin "Shine" Robinson (December 22, 1937 – January 24, 1989), sometimes credited as Al Robinson, was an American rhythm and blues singer, guitarist, and songwriter, based in New Orleans. His recording of "Something You Got" reached the Billboard Hot 100 in 1964.
   
3. This week in Louisiana.
   32nd Celebration in the Oaks
   The Most Spectacular Holiday Lights Festival in the Country
   Celebration in the Oaks in City Park is one of the most spectacular holiday lights festivals in the country, with more than 165,000 visitors pouring into the Park to see the magical winter spectacle. City Park’s famous oaks are swathed in hundreds of thousands of twinkling lights and breathtaking light displays are scattered throughout 25 acres of the Park, including the Botanical Garden, Storyland, and Carousel Gardens Amusement Park.
4. Postcards from Louisiana. Roz de Roos and her band play at the Apple Barrel on Frenchman Street in New Orleans.
5. Louisiana Christmas Card. Poet David Middleton reads his poem "The Shepherd — A Christmas Play."

Listen in iTunes.
Listen in Stitcher.
Listen on Google Play.
The Louisiana Anthology Home Page.
Like us on Facebook.

291 John LaFleur, part 1

291. Part 1 of our interview with John LaFleur II, author of Their Voices, Their Hands, and Their Gifts: Louisiana's Creole Food & Culture A Menu of Diversity. Owner / operator / entrepreneur at John LaFleur's New Orleans, Director / Manager / Creole Gourmet chef at John LaFleur's Louisiana Creole Guesthouse & Kitchen and Former Saturday French News Announcer in Ville Platte, Louisiana at KVPI Radio Past: New Orleans' Save Our Cemeteries" & Basin Street Tourist Center.

1. This week in Louisiana history. December 15, 1802. Pres. Jefferson, worried of French takeover of La., seeks to purchase Isle of Orleans.
2. This week in New Orleans history. Renato (René) Beluche, born in New Orleans on December 15, 1780, was a privateer who enlisted in the American forces defending New Orleans against the British invasion of 1814-1815; he commanded one of the 24-pounders (seacoast cannons — the heaviest used at the time by the U.S. Army) in Battery No. 3 at Chalmette. He also commanded the privateer ship Spy under United States letter of marque during War of 1812.  As master of several merchant vessels out of New Orleans, he used the alias Pierre Brugman,
   
3. This week in Louisiana.
   Noel Acadien au Village
   December 1-23
   200 Greenleaf Drive
   Lafayette, LA
   337-981-2364
   More than half a million lights are incorporated into displays lighting up 10 acres of land. There also are carnival rides, local food vendors, live entertainment, a shopping area and photos with Santa. 5:30 p.m.-9 p.m. daily. $10, free for children 4 and younger.
4. Postcards from Louisiana. Bruce listens to Joe Shedlo on Royal Street in New Orleans.
   

Listen in iTunes.
Listen in Stitcher.
Listen on Google Play.
The Louisiana Anthology Home Page.
Like us on Facebook.

290. Krista Bordelon, Part 2

290. Part 2 of our interview with Krista Bordelon, Baton Rouge activist and founder of Compassion Louisiana, which is an advocacy organization focused on community relations, awareness, and neighborhood development. It is entirely community organized, community led, and community funded.
     With the intent of building a strong future for Louisiana, Compassion’s focus revolves around 13 goals for sustainable development. Those goals are: no poverty; affordable and clean energy; zero hunger; work/economic growth; good health and well-being; industry, innovation, infrastructure; quality education; reduced inequality; peace, justice, strong institutions; sustainable community; partnerships for the goals; clean water and sanitation; responsible consumption and production. The ultimate goal of Compassion is to create independent, strong, sustainable communities. In a state that frequently falls behind the direction of the rest of the country, our hope is to not only move up on the list, but to become leaders in growth and development.

1. This week in Louisiana history. December 8, 1872. Pinckney Benton Stewart Pinchback, 24th Governor of Louisiana.
2. This week in New Orleans history. Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers and the Fabulous Poodles performed at A Warehouse on December 8, 1979.
   
3. This week in Louisiana.
   New Orleans Running of the Santas
   Mannings & Generations Hall
   New Orleans, LA
   December 8, 2018
      Running of the Santas returns to the Warehouse District for an unbelievable day of events! DRINK SPECIALS AT ALL LOCATIONS!!! South Pole – 3:00pm at Mannings. A HUGE outdoor party with drink specials and GREAT Music! Doors open at 11am. At 5:45pm, the Santas will “RUN” from the “South Pole- Mannings” to the “North Pole – Generations Hall” (only a few blocks). Costume contest at 8:00pm! A portion of the proceeds benefits “That Others May Live” Foundation. LIVE MUSIC BY TOP CATS and FLOW TRIBE at the GENERATIONS HALL (aka “North Pole”) starting at 6pm!!!
4. Postcards from Louisiana. Bruce listens to Krewe member Maude Caillat and the Afrodisiacs at the Circle Bar in New Orleans, LA.

Listen in iTunes.
Listen in Stitcher.
Listen on Google Play.
The Louisiana Anthology Home Page.
Like us on Facebook.