The Louisiana Outback

Creole Nature Trail 

The Creole Nature Trail is a 108-mile driving trail; one of the 43 designated All-American Roads in the USA.  The road loops through Southwest Louisiana between Lakes Charles and the Gulf of Mexico in an area referred to as the Louisiana Outback.  The Outback is an incredible mesh of natural ecosystems: marshes, prairies, and beaches providing an amazing opportunity for viewing wildlife in its natural habitat. […]

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Louisiana Jazz

All that Jazz –

The distinctive Louisiana Jazz sound didn’t develop solely in New Orleans but the Crescent City did spawn its growth. Born as a French settlement with strong Caribbean influences in the 1700s, the city was central to Jazz creation. These West Indian influences gave the city a more relaxed attitude in culture and especially music; creating a tradition of music and celebration.  As New Orleans grew into a diverse world port, the melding of cultures was reflected in its music.

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New Orleans, LA

Huey P. Long for Pie!

When first planning my trip to New Orleans, the number one thing on my list to see was the Huey P. Long Bridge. I’m sure that is not a very popular tourist attraction but one that has been on my list for 30 years. The 8,000′ long cantilevered steel truss bridge rises 150 above the Mississippi River and was opened in 1935. But that has nothing to do with its significance to me. […]

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Natchez Steamer Riverboat

All Aboard the NATCHEZ

Paddle Wheel steamers are a part of the Mississippi Rivers’ history, from the plantation era, to the Civil War, through the gay nineties and into the 21st Century.  From utilitarian uses to entertainment, the paddler was developed during a time which it could navigate the Mississippi’s shallow waters as well as upriver against strong currents. The paddle wheeler is engrained into the lore of the river. […]

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Catfish Festival – Belzoni, Mississippi

The catfish is plenty good enough fish for anyone‘  – Mark Twain –

It is said that the face of Helen of Troy launched a thousand ships. In that vein, the whiskered face of the catfish launched my quest to track down Supergraphics.  While participating in the RAIN bicycle ride in Indiana, I’m contemplating a sabbatical of travel.  Unsure of what my goal or Belzoni UHaul Truckdestination might be, I see a U-Haul trailer with catfish emblazoned on the side. It announces Belzoni as the Catfish Capital of the World.  That was it, I have to see what this venue is all about. Luckily my visit coincides with the annual Catfish Festival.
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