Atchafalaya Culinary & Arts Festival Hosting Cooking Competitions
The Atchafalaya Culinary & Arts Festival is hosting two cooking competitions, an individual shrimp competition and a team potluck competition, on Friday, November 13, 2009 in the historic district of downtown Morgan City, LA. The Atchafalaya Culinary & Arts Festival is part of Louisiana’s 4th Annual Main to Main event, Remember November Cultural Road Show. Louisiana Main to Main is an annual statewide initiative of Louisiana Main Street designed to stimulate cultural tourism and foster economic development throughout the state of Louisiana.
The team competition pot luck categories are seafood, beef, chicken, pork, and other. All entries must be cooked on site, Front Street in downtown Morgan City. All teams and equipment must be set up before noon; judging will begin at 5 p.m. Winnings will be determined by the number of participating teams. Electricity will not be provided, therefore, teams must supply their own heat source, as well as shelter, cover, tent, chairs, tables, and presentation materials. The festival will provide eating utensils, cups or dishes, and napkins. All dishes must consist of a minimum of 100 - 2 oz. samples to be served to the public to determine the winner of the Taster’s Choice award. Registration is $20 and is due Thursday, November 12, 2009.
Any dish containing shrimp is eligible for the individual’s Shrimp Cooking Contest sponsored by the Louisiana Shrimp and Petroleum Festival. The first place winner will receive $100; the second place winner will receive $50; the third place winner will receive $25. Prepared food entries must be delivered to the cook off area by 5:30 p.m.; judging begins at 6 p.m. Judging is based on taste, appearance, and the recipe (how easy to follow and prepare). Recipes must be included with registration forms. Recipes must be typed on 8 ½” by 11” paper and include ingredients, cooking/baking times, directions, and temperatures. Registration is $10 and is due Thursday, November 12, 2009.
Anyone wishing to register for the cooking competitions or would like more information about the Atchafalaya Culinary & Arts Festival can contact Lisa Morgan at (985) 385-1770.
###
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Remember November Cultural Road Show
St. Mary Parish part of “Remember November” Cultural Road Show
Morgan City and Franklin are participating in Louisiana’s 4th Annual Main to Main event, Remember November Cultural Road Show. Louisiana Main to Main is an annual statewide initiative of Louisiana Main Street designed to foster economic development and stimulate cultural tourism throughout the state of Louisiana.
Morgan City’s Main Street Program is hosting the “Atchafalaya Culinary and Arts Festival” Friday, November 13, 2009, from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. in the historical district of downtown Morgan City. There will be live music by the Good Feelin Band, two cook-offs - a shrimp cook-off for individuals and a potluck team competition, and wine tastings. To sample food, a $10 bracelet must be purchased. (The fee may be reduced, depending on the number of cook-off competitors.) Wine tasting, sponsored by St. Mary Chamber of Commerce and Cannata’s, will be $10. The Atchafalaya Culinary and Art Festival will also feature several artists. Anyone wishing to compete in the cooking competition or would like more information should contact Morgan City Main Street at (985)385-1770 ext 112.
Franklin’s Main Street Program is hosting “Christmas on the Bayou with a Trail of Lampposts” Saturday, November 14, 2009, from 12 p.m. until 6 p.m. along Franklin’s Main Street. Shops along Main Street will open to begin the holiday shopping season and will be offering special promotions. Non-profit vendors and downtown development district retailers will be along Main Street. The event will include a Children’s Area with carnival acts, magicians, arts and crafts, games, and horse-drawn buggy rides and train rides. Train rides are $3.00, horse-drawn buggy rides are $2.00. There will be a Christmas boat parade along the riverfront. A firework display will close out the day’s festivities. Admission is free. For more information, contact Marla Chirdon at (337)828-6326.
# # #
Morgan City and Franklin are participating in Louisiana’s 4th Annual Main to Main event, Remember November Cultural Road Show. Louisiana Main to Main is an annual statewide initiative of Louisiana Main Street designed to foster economic development and stimulate cultural tourism throughout the state of Louisiana.
Morgan City’s Main Street Program is hosting the “Atchafalaya Culinary and Arts Festival” Friday, November 13, 2009, from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. in the historical district of downtown Morgan City. There will be live music by the Good Feelin Band, two cook-offs - a shrimp cook-off for individuals and a potluck team competition, and wine tastings. To sample food, a $10 bracelet must be purchased. (The fee may be reduced, depending on the number of cook-off competitors.) Wine tasting, sponsored by St. Mary Chamber of Commerce and Cannata’s, will be $10. The Atchafalaya Culinary and Art Festival will also feature several artists. Anyone wishing to compete in the cooking competition or would like more information should contact Morgan City Main Street at (985)385-1770 ext 112.
Franklin’s Main Street Program is hosting “Christmas on the Bayou with a Trail of Lampposts” Saturday, November 14, 2009, from 12 p.m. until 6 p.m. along Franklin’s Main Street. Shops along Main Street will open to begin the holiday shopping season and will be offering special promotions. Non-profit vendors and downtown development district retailers will be along Main Street. The event will include a Children’s Area with carnival acts, magicians, arts and crafts, games, and horse-drawn buggy rides and train rides. Train rides are $3.00, horse-drawn buggy rides are $2.00. There will be a Christmas boat parade along the riverfront. A firework display will close out the day’s festivities. Admission is free. For more information, contact Marla Chirdon at (337)828-6326.
# # #
Bassmaster Central Open, November 5-7, 2009 in Atchafalaya Basin
The Bassmaster Central Open is taking place November 5 -7, 2009 in the Atchafalaya River Basin near Morgan City, LA. BASS is the world’s largest fishing organization with over 500,000 members. It has conducted professional and amateur bass fishing tournaments around the nation for over 40 years. The Bassmaster Central Open allows every-day anglers to fish with professionals and compete for a chance to qualify to fish in either the Bassmaster Classic or the next Bassmaster Elite series season as a professional angler.
The three day bass fishing tournament begins Wednesday evening with a reception and tournament registration and briefing at the Morgan City Municipal Auditorium. Fishing begins Thursday morning at 6:15 a.m., launching from the Belle River Boat Landing in Pierre Part, LA. Weigh-in will begin at 2:20 p.m. at the launch site. All anglers will fish Thursday and Friday. The top 30 pros and top 30 co-anglers, based on total weight, will fish on Saturday. Awards will be distributed after the final weigh-in Saturday afternoon. The top prize in the professional division is $45,000; a $32,000 boat rig is top prize in the co-angler division.
For more information about this tournament, contact Carrie Stansbury at the Cajun Coast Visitors and Convention Bureau at (985)395-4905.
# # #
The three day bass fishing tournament begins Wednesday evening with a reception and tournament registration and briefing at the Morgan City Municipal Auditorium. Fishing begins Thursday morning at 6:15 a.m., launching from the Belle River Boat Landing in Pierre Part, LA. Weigh-in will begin at 2:20 p.m. at the launch site. All anglers will fish Thursday and Friday. The top 30 pros and top 30 co-anglers, based on total weight, will fish on Saturday. Awards will be distributed after the final weigh-in Saturday afternoon. The top prize in the professional division is $45,000; a $32,000 boat rig is top prize in the co-angler division.
For more information about this tournament, contact Carrie Stansbury at the Cajun Coast Visitors and Convention Bureau at (985)395-4905.
# # #
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Clementine Hunter’s unique vision explored
Patterson, LA – The life and work of one Louisiana’s best known and most-loved artists are explored in Clementine Hunter: Plantation Life a comprehensive new exhibition at the Louisiana State Museum here.
The exhibition opens Thursday, October 1 at 5:30 PM with a gala reception hosted by Lt. Governor Mitch Landrieu and the Louisiana State Museum, Wedell-Williams Aviation and Cypress Sawmill Foundation boards of directors.
With more than 60 paintings and other decorated objects, most of them loaned from private collections, Clementine Hunter: Plantation Life is one of the largest exhibitions of her work in recent years. The show presents Hunter’s intimate views of plantation life, the daily rhythms of domestic and agricultural work punctuated by memorable occasions like marriage, funeral, the birth of a child, or fishing trips on Cane River.
Clementine Hunter (pronounced Clem-en-teen) was born in December 1886 near Marco, Louisiana, in the Cane River region of Natchitoches Parish. From 1900 until her death in 1988, she lived at Melrose Plantation. The owners, John and Carmelita (Cammie) Henry, were passionate supporters of art and literature and encouraged Hunter to pursue her creative ability.
During her early years as an artist, Hunter would paint by the light of a kerosene lamp while caring for her sick husband. When canvas was not available, she painted on whatever was at hand. Cardboard, shoebox covers, window shades, bottles, purses, picnic baskets, coal buckets, plastic milk bottles, and a range of other media bear her mark.
By the late 1940s, Hunter’s reputation as an artist began to grow. In 1955 the Delgado Museum (now the New Orleans Museum of Art) sponsored a one-person exhibition, the museum’s first solo show featuring an African American artist. She was the focus of a Look magazine article entitled “Innocence Regained,” published in 1961. Like Grandma Moses, Clementine Hunter had captured the popular imagination.
On exhibit at the Patterson museum are works in varied media from the collections of Anne and Jack Brittain, and Thomas Whitehead. The collectors are from Natchitoches and knew the artist personally.
Clementine Hunter: Plantation Life will be on view through January 9, 2010. Located at 118 Cotten Road (at Highway 90) in Kemper Williams Park, the Museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 AM to 4 PM. Admission also includes the Wedell-Williams Aviation and Cypress Sawmill exhibits. For information, call 985.399.1268
# # #
Founded in 1906, the Louisiana State Museum collects, preserves and interprets Louisiana’s rich cultural heritage from pre-historic times to the present through more than 450,000 objects and works of art. The Museum is part of the Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism, which is overseen by Lt. Governor Mitch Landrieu. For more information, visit http://lsm.crt.state.la.us/.
Founded in 1906, the Louisiana State Museum collects, preserves and interprets Louisiana’s rich cultural heritage from pre-historic times to the present through more than 450,000 objects and works of art. The Museum is part of the Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism, which is overseen by Lt. Governor Mitch Landrieu. For more information, visit http://lsm.crt.state.la.us/.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Franklin’s Tenth Annual Harvest Moon Fest Is Just Around The Corner!
The tenth annual Franklin Harvest Moon Fest will be held Saturday, October 24, 2009 from 11 am to 9:30 pm. Festivities will take place along Franklin’s Main Street in the downtown historic district.
There is no admission fee. Harvest Moon Fest is a community-based downtown street festival celebrating the sugar cane harvest and the return of fall. Events for this year’s celebration include live entertainment all day long, children’s activities, arts & crafts, a 5k Run/Walk, an Antique, Hot-Rod, Classic Car & Motorcycle Show, bass fishing tournament, art show, BBQ cook-off, and more.
As part of the festival, Franklin Downtown Retail Merchants will provide special sales and promotions to open the Christmas shopping season. Concession booths with local foods and crafts will line the downtown area around the music stage and an electric train will be available for rides through Franklin’s historic district.
Live entertainment will be provided by Ricky Lorenzo & Mark Robichaux, Jody and the Zydeco Hot Poppas, the Johnny Firmin Band, and 5th Avenue. All performance will take place at the stage in the center of Main Street in Franklin.
Children’s games and activities will be open to all children ages 12 & under and will include a space walk, bean bag tossing, pick a duck, remote controlled cars, pumpkin bowling, Chinese rickshaws, and much more.
Teche Action Clinic’s Adeline Guienze Breast Cancer Memorial Fund 5K Run/Walk will begin at 9 a.m., Saturday, October 24th at the Courthouse Square. Entry fees for the race are $20.00 by October 12th (includes t-shirt), $25.00 after October 12th, $15.00 for Senior Citizens (includes t-shirt), $15.00 for no t-shirt entry, and $5.00 for school teams (per student/ no t-shirt). Late registration will begin at 7:30 a.m. at the Courthouse Square on the day of the race. To register for the race or to find out more information, contact Alfreida Edwards at (337) 828-2550 ext 131 or Florence Beverly at (337) 829-2550 ext 145.
The Antique, Hot-Rod, Classic Car & Motorcycle Show will also take place on Main Street. Registration is $15.00 for those who register before October 24th and late registration is $20.00. The show will begin at 9 am on Main Street in Franklin. Awards will be presented to the top 10 vehicles, Best of Show, Longest Distance, and Club Participation. Door prizes will be awarded throughout the day.
The St. Mary Chamber of Commerce is hosting the Adopt a Lamppost Contest. The entry fee to adopt and decorate a lamppost is $20. Decorating begins on Oct. 10th and judging will take place on Oct. 21st. To register, contact the St. Mary Chamber of Commerce at (337)828-5608.
The AGU’s Fine Art Show and Sale will begin Saturday at 11 at 600 Main St. in Downtown Franklin. To register for the show and sale contact Laura Zuniga at (337)828-0811. Artist are invited to paint on site on Saturday.
The Harvest Moon Fest Bass Tournament will take place at safe daylight until 3pm on Oct. 24, 2009. Registration will take place the morning of the tournament at the launch site and weigh in location, the boat landing under Hwy. 90 overpass at Franklin Canal. Entry fees are $100 per boat with a 2 man team, $50 per boat to fish solo. Each boat is allowed to weigh-in five fish, minimum of 12 inches. Winners will be announced at 4 pm at the stage on Main St. in Franklin, LA.
The Harvest Moon Fest is including a BBQ cook-off this year. The entry fee is $25 and must be received by Oct. 19, 2009. The categories for judging are pork spare ribs, chicken (thighs only), and beef brisket. For more information contact Chuck Bourgeois at (337)940-1467. Teams may prepare additional food, if they choose, to be sold for sampling/tasting.
Harvest Moon Fest is a production of the Franklin Office of Development/ Main Street Office and the Franklin Main Street Merchant Board. For more information on Harvest Moon Fest contact Debbie Von Werder at (337)828-3706 or Joan Adams at (337)578-1505 or the Cajun Coast Visitors & Convention Bureau at (800) 256-2931 or email info@cajuncoast.com.
The tenth annual Franklin Harvest Moon Fest will be held Saturday, October 24, 2009 from 11 am to 9:30 pm. Festivities will take place along Franklin’s Main Street in the downtown historic district.
There is no admission fee. Harvest Moon Fest is a community-based downtown street festival celebrating the sugar cane harvest and the return of fall. Events for this year’s celebration include live entertainment all day long, children’s activities, arts & crafts, a 5k Run/Walk, an Antique, Hot-Rod, Classic Car & Motorcycle Show, bass fishing tournament, art show, BBQ cook-off, and more.
As part of the festival, Franklin Downtown Retail Merchants will provide special sales and promotions to open the Christmas shopping season. Concession booths with local foods and crafts will line the downtown area around the music stage and an electric train will be available for rides through Franklin’s historic district.
Live entertainment will be provided by Ricky Lorenzo & Mark Robichaux, Jody and the Zydeco Hot Poppas, the Johnny Firmin Band, and 5th Avenue. All performance will take place at the stage in the center of Main Street in Franklin.
Children’s games and activities will be open to all children ages 12 & under and will include a space walk, bean bag tossing, pick a duck, remote controlled cars, pumpkin bowling, Chinese rickshaws, and much more.
Teche Action Clinic’s Adeline Guienze Breast Cancer Memorial Fund 5K Run/Walk will begin at 9 a.m., Saturday, October 24th at the Courthouse Square. Entry fees for the race are $20.00 by October 12th (includes t-shirt), $25.00 after October 12th, $15.00 for Senior Citizens (includes t-shirt), $15.00 for no t-shirt entry, and $5.00 for school teams (per student/ no t-shirt). Late registration will begin at 7:30 a.m. at the Courthouse Square on the day of the race. To register for the race or to find out more information, contact Alfreida Edwards at (337) 828-2550 ext 131 or Florence Beverly at (337) 829-2550 ext 145.
The Antique, Hot-Rod, Classic Car & Motorcycle Show will also take place on Main Street. Registration is $15.00 for those who register before October 24th and late registration is $20.00. The show will begin at 9 am on Main Street in Franklin. Awards will be presented to the top 10 vehicles, Best of Show, Longest Distance, and Club Participation. Door prizes will be awarded throughout the day.
The St. Mary Chamber of Commerce is hosting the Adopt a Lamppost Contest. The entry fee to adopt and decorate a lamppost is $20. Decorating begins on Oct. 10th and judging will take place on Oct. 21st. To register, contact the St. Mary Chamber of Commerce at (337)828-5608.
The AGU’s Fine Art Show and Sale will begin Saturday at 11 at 600 Main St. in Downtown Franklin. To register for the show and sale contact Laura Zuniga at (337)828-0811. Artist are invited to paint on site on Saturday.
The Harvest Moon Fest Bass Tournament will take place at safe daylight until 3pm on Oct. 24, 2009. Registration will take place the morning of the tournament at the launch site and weigh in location, the boat landing under Hwy. 90 overpass at Franklin Canal. Entry fees are $100 per boat with a 2 man team, $50 per boat to fish solo. Each boat is allowed to weigh-in five fish, minimum of 12 inches. Winners will be announced at 4 pm at the stage on Main St. in Franklin, LA.
The Harvest Moon Fest is including a BBQ cook-off this year. The entry fee is $25 and must be received by Oct. 19, 2009. The categories for judging are pork spare ribs, chicken (thighs only), and beef brisket. For more information contact Chuck Bourgeois at (337)940-1467. Teams may prepare additional food, if they choose, to be sold for sampling/tasting.
Harvest Moon Fest is a production of the Franklin Office of Development/ Main Street Office and the Franklin Main Street Merchant Board. For more information on Harvest Moon Fest contact Debbie Von Werder at (337)828-3706 or Joan Adams at (337)578-1505 or the Cajun Coast Visitors & Convention Bureau at (800) 256-2931 or email info@cajuncoast.com.
Morgan City, LA to host 09 UIM
World Championship Powerboat Races
The Morgan City Power Boat Association will host the prestigious UIM 2009 Atchafalaya World Championship Powerboat Races on October 17 & 18, 2009 at the Lake Palourde Parkway, Morgan City, Louisiana.
Over 100 powerboats will be awaiting spectators at this year’s championship. According to Race Commodore, Oren Dupre, UIM (Union Internationale Motonautique - established in 1922) is the World governing body for power boat race.Through American Power Boat Association's (established in 1903) affiliation with UIM, APBA receives its designation as the U.S. National Authority for power boat racing. There is one organization in each country around the world that is designated by UIM as the National Authority for that country. All these countries are member National Authorities of UIM. It is truly interesting how the sport of power boat racing brings all these countries together for the good of boat racing
As the National Authority for the U.S. only the American Power Boat Association is granted approval by UIM to hold true World Championship events here in the United States. If a World Championship event is held in the U.S. for classes that participate around the world, drivers will come from many countries to participate. The Inboard classes are APBA classes only and not run around the world, so mostly just APBA members will attend the event. However, each of the owners/drivers that win will truly hold the distinction of being a true World Champion.
Dupre stated we expect around 110 boat entries this year for the festival on Lake Palourde, including several racers from Canada, New York, Virginia, California, Florida, Washington and many others, will travel to South Louisiana to compete. Sanctioned Classes include 1.5 Stock, 2.5 Modified, Jersey Speed Skiffs, Grand National Hydros, KRR, 1 Liter, 5 Liters, Super Stock, 2.5 Stock, National Mod, Pro Stock, G.P. and Cracker Box.
The course will be four 1 ¼ mile laps, approved for records. Thrills and spills will begin at 9:00 AM, ending at approximately 4:00 p.m. daily. Pre-ticket sales will be available at $8.00 per person/per day thru Friday, Oct 16th, and $10 at the gate per person/per day; children 12 and under are free all week-end when accompanied by parent or guardian.
Tickets can be purchased at M C Bank’s Colonial Plaza Branch, located at 6413 Hwy 90 East in Morgan City, American Supply, and St. Mary Chamber of Commerce.
Non Profit Organizations will man concessions with a variety of food and drink items; for this reason, the festival organizers have asked the community to refrain from bringing ice chest & food into the parkway. Parkway & City policy also states no glass, no open fires or BBQ pits, no pets, and no firearms are allowed on the property.
Sponsorships are being sought to assist with the VIP Tent, Racers Pit Party and each class of boats competing. Current sponsors include the Louisiana Lt. Governor’s Office of Culture Recreation & Tourism, The City of Morgan City, St. Mary Parish Government and the Cajun Coast Visitors & Convention Bureau.
Anyone interested in advance tickets, tee-shirts, or sponsorship information can contact the Morgan City Power Boat Association c/o American Supply, P. O. Box 2074, Morgan City, LA 70381, (985) 384-3000, Oren Dupre (985) 498-2926, or the Morgan City Chamber of Commerce at (985) 384-3830. Please visit their new web site http://www.mcpba.net/; visit it often, it’s ever changing with updates.
Hydroplane Racing – the greatest show on H2O
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Community Concert Opens
Community Concert begins its season Thursday, September 10th in Morgan City at the MC Auditorium.
Opening the Concert season is "Nearly Neil and the Solitary Band", an amazing tribute to Neil Diamond. The concert will begin at 7:30 p.m., September 10th.
Other concerts include Buffalo Rome, blending west coast country rock with today’s modern country on Thursday, October 1, 2009; Hunt Family Fiddlers, an award-winning family of Irish step dancers, fiddlers, and singers performing bluegrass, Celtic, inspirational, popular, and more on Thursday, October 29; Red Hot Hollywood, a “red carpet” review of Hollywood’s greatest music memories on Thursday, March 11, 2010; and the final concert will be held Tuesday, April 20, 2010, with Daniel Rodriguez, the beloved New York Police officer who became one of the department’s official tenors after September 11, 2001,
Season tickets for the season are $45 for adults and $10 for students (K-12). Bronze Patrons, 4 tickets, are $150; Silver Patron, 10 tickets, $350, and Gold Patron, 20 tickets, $600.
All concerts are held in the Morgan City Municipal Auditorium Paul Schreier Theatre and begin at 7:30 pm. Subscription for the season also include concerts of New Iberia Community Concert Association. Subscriptions are available at the door.
Call 985-385-2307 for more information.
Opening the Concert season is "Nearly Neil and the Solitary Band", an amazing tribute to Neil Diamond. The concert will begin at 7:30 p.m., September 10th.
Other concerts include Buffalo Rome, blending west coast country rock with today’s modern country on Thursday, October 1, 2009; Hunt Family Fiddlers, an award-winning family of Irish step dancers, fiddlers, and singers performing bluegrass, Celtic, inspirational, popular, and more on Thursday, October 29; Red Hot Hollywood, a “red carpet” review of Hollywood’s greatest music memories on Thursday, March 11, 2010; and the final concert will be held Tuesday, April 20, 2010, with Daniel Rodriguez, the beloved New York Police officer who became one of the department’s official tenors after September 11, 2001,
Season tickets for the season are $45 for adults and $10 for students (K-12). Bronze Patrons, 4 tickets, are $150; Silver Patron, 10 tickets, $350, and Gold Patron, 20 tickets, $600.
All concerts are held in the Morgan City Municipal Auditorium Paul Schreier Theatre and begin at 7:30 pm. Subscription for the season also include concerts of New Iberia Community Concert Association. Subscriptions are available at the door.
Call 985-385-2307 for more information.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Snake Bite Triathlon Super Sprint
The inaugural Snake Bite Triathlon Super Sprint will be held at Lake End Park in Morgan City, LA, August 23rd, 2009 at 8:00 a.m.
The Super Sprint includes a 400 m beach start swim in Lake Palourde, 13 mile bike down LA 70, 2 mile run down Fig Street and return to the best post race party you've ever been to - food, drinks, music, more food!!!
This race takes place in the beautiful swamps surrounding Morgan City, LA. The course is open to vehicular traffic, but will be heavily supported by informed volunteers ready to take care of all snake bites (large or small).
Cost: $50.00 (+$10.00 for a one day USAT pass or proof of yearly USAT membership - insurance) Sorry - no refunds or transfers. Registration will cost $60 after August 1.
If you have ever been bitten by a snake, please send us your story for our "snake bite essay contest" - there is a super cool award to the best essay. Essay must be a true account with some type of proof (like a scar photo or something - Carla and Evelyn, I know you can do these). The essay must be no longer than 500 words.
For more information, contact Lisa Parsiola 985.385.7927 or lcparsiola@yahoo.com or visit snakebitetri.blogspot.com
The Super Sprint includes a 400 m beach start swim in Lake Palourde, 13 mile bike down LA 70, 2 mile run down Fig Street and return to the best post race party you've ever been to - food, drinks, music, more food!!!
This race takes place in the beautiful swamps surrounding Morgan City, LA. The course is open to vehicular traffic, but will be heavily supported by informed volunteers ready to take care of all snake bites (large or small).
Cost: $50.00 (+$10.00 for a one day USAT pass or proof of yearly USAT membership - insurance) Sorry - no refunds or transfers. Registration will cost $60 after August 1.
If you have ever been bitten by a snake, please send us your story for our "snake bite essay contest" - there is a super cool award to the best essay. Essay must be a true account with some type of proof (like a scar photo or something - Carla and Evelyn, I know you can do these). The essay must be no longer than 500 words.
For more information, contact Lisa Parsiola 985.385.7927 or lcparsiola@yahoo.com or visit snakebitetri.blogspot.com
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Battle of the Basin
The Deep South Racing Association will sponsor the inaugural "Battle of the Basin," August 22-23, 2009 in Morgan City at Russo's Landing. Outboard powered race boats and teams will visit Morgan City for two days of world championship outdoor drag racing.
Racing classes will range from Performance Bass and Ski to the 1/8th mile "Outlaws" with several classes in between. Speed ranges from the low 80-mph in the stock classes to in excess of 110 mph in Pro Gas and Outlaw Classes.
Morgan City is the fourth race of a six race schedule for 2009.
Admission is $10 per person; $10 per ice-chest and food and non-alcoholic beverages will be sold at the race site.
DSRA is a regional racing sanction based in League City Texas, a suburb of Houston and sanctions races in Texas, Louisiana and Mississippi.
It is according to the organizers, the most competitive racing on water.
Proceeds will benefit the Morgan City Volunteer Fire Department. According to Marvin Catrett, the event coordinator, we are looking forward to a great turnout of racers and spectators to enjoy a great weekend of racing that will benefit a worthy cause.
For more information, visit www.dsraonline.com.
Racing classes will range from Performance Bass and Ski to the 1/8th mile "Outlaws" with several classes in between. Speed ranges from the low 80-mph in the stock classes to in excess of 110 mph in Pro Gas and Outlaw Classes.
Morgan City is the fourth race of a six race schedule for 2009.
Admission is $10 per person; $10 per ice-chest and food and non-alcoholic beverages will be sold at the race site.
DSRA is a regional racing sanction based in League City Texas, a suburb of Houston and sanctions races in Texas, Louisiana and Mississippi.
It is according to the organizers, the most competitive racing on water.
Proceeds will benefit the Morgan City Volunteer Fire Department. According to Marvin Catrett, the event coordinator, we are looking forward to a great turnout of racers and spectators to enjoy a great weekend of racing that will benefit a worthy cause.
For more information, visit www.dsraonline.com.
Monday, August 10, 2009
5 K Fun/Run during S & P Festival
The 100 Black Men of St. Mary Parish will host the Marcus Jones 5K Fun/Run walk, formally known as the 12th annual 100 Black Men 5 K Run/Walk, on Saturday, Sept 5th, as part of the 74th Annual Shrimp and Petroleum Festival.
The race will begin at 8 a.m. The 5K Run will begin in the Morgan City historic district, near city hall. Walkers immediately follow the runners.
The first male and female to cross the finish line will win $250 in cash each. Both the male and female, provided they are 21 years of age or older, will win a $100 dinner gift certificate to the Loco Restaurant located inside Cypress Bayou Casino in Baldwin.
One participant in the event will have an opportunity to win a 2009 LSU Michael Hunt poster commemorating the tiger baseball championship. The poster is an artist's proof, signed by Michael Hunt, and LSU Baseball Head Coach Paul Mainieri. Everyone who pays to run or walk in the race automatically gets a free entry. The general public can also take a chance on winning the poster with a $5 donation by calling 985-312-2154.
1st, 2nd, and 3rd place trophies to the top male and female finishers will be awarded. Award medals for second and third place finishers, in these categories: 13 & under male & female; 14-24 male & female; 25-34 male & female; 35-44 male & female; 45-54 male & female; 55 & over male & female will also be given out.
Proceeds from the 5K Fun/Walk benefit the scholarship fund of the 100 Black Men. For more information on the 5K Fun Run/Walk, contact, 985-312-2154.
The race will begin at 8 a.m. The 5K Run will begin in the Morgan City historic district, near city hall. Walkers immediately follow the runners.
The first male and female to cross the finish line will win $250 in cash each. Both the male and female, provided they are 21 years of age or older, will win a $100 dinner gift certificate to the Loco Restaurant located inside Cypress Bayou Casino in Baldwin.
One participant in the event will have an opportunity to win a 2009 LSU Michael Hunt poster commemorating the tiger baseball championship. The poster is an artist's proof, signed by Michael Hunt, and LSU Baseball Head Coach Paul Mainieri. Everyone who pays to run or walk in the race automatically gets a free entry. The general public can also take a chance on winning the poster with a $5 donation by calling 985-312-2154.
1st, 2nd, and 3rd place trophies to the top male and female finishers will be awarded. Award medals for second and third place finishers, in these categories: 13 & under male & female; 14-24 male & female; 25-34 male & female; 35-44 male & female; 45-54 male & female; 55 & over male & female will also be given out.
Proceeds from the 5K Fun/Walk benefit the scholarship fund of the 100 Black Men. For more information on the 5K Fun Run/Walk, contact, 985-312-2154.
Monday, August 3, 2009
Louisiana Shrimp & Petroleum Festival
Louisiana Shrimp & Petroleum Festival Slated September 3-7, 2009
Louisiana’s oldest chartered harvest festival is scheduled to celebrate 74 years of tradition and family fun this upcoming Labor Day Weekend.
The Louisiana Shrimp & Petroleum Festival will be held September 3-September 7, 2009 in Morgan City, only 90 miles from New Orleans, Baton Rouge and Lafayette. Most festivities are held within the beautiful Downtown Historic District and are free to the general public. Great food, continuous free live music, traditional events and children’s activities will highlight this five-day extravaganza
New events for 2009 events include a shuttle service, car show, motorcycle benefit run and a demonstration tent.
Mitchell Brothers Carnival will kick off the festival, with rides and carnival games at 5 PM Thursday, September 3rd and will continue through Monday.
The traditional arts & crafts show & sale will also open on Friday, September 4th at 5 PM. The event features over 100 artists, crafters and food vendors and will be held under the cover of the US Highway 90 bridge.
The 7th Annual API/USCG Coast Guard Foundation and Louisiana Shrimp & Petroleum Golf Tournament will be held on Friday, September 18th at the Atchafalaya at Idlewild Golf Course in Patterson, an Audubon Golf Trail course and named one of the best courses to play under $75.00 by Golfer’s Digest in 2007 & 2008.. The tournament is co-sponsored by Major Equipment Rental, Laborde Marine, Frantz Marine, Allis Chalmers, Diamond Tank Rentals, King Trucking, Morgan City Rentals, Northbank Towing, Seward Supply, Sun Towing, Landry Harris Insurance and Eastern Shipbuilders.
Children’s Day activities, sponsored by the Family of Oliver and Marion Bergeron, will begin with children’s field & game events Saturday, September 5th at 9 AM. Children of all ages can participate in sack races, three legged races and more. At 1 p.m., professional storytellers will entertain kids as well as their parents with their wonderful stories. The Children’s Day Mini Street Parade will begin at 11:30 AM. Decorated bicycles, wagons, strollers and four wheelers are welcome to participate. The Children’s Day King and Queen will officially open the J Ray McDermott/Teche Regional Medical Center Children’s Village with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 1 PM. Visiting festival queens will also be present. Visiting royalty travel is sponsored by Allen’s TV Cable Service. Featuring a new look, the McDermott/Teche Regional Medical Center Children’s Village, is a magical play land featuring a smoking dragon, games, prizes, face-painting and more and will be open from 1 PM to 5 PM Saturday- Monday.
Indulge your taste buds and satisfy your appetite at the 21st annual Cajun Culinary Classic, a showcase of local “home style” cooking featuring delicious Cajun & Creole dishes. The Cajun Culinary Classic is open 5 PM to 11 PM Friday, noon to 11 PM Saturday & Sunday, and noon to 9 PM Monday. Local non-profit groups and civic organizations such as Central Catholic High School, Christ Gospel Church, Twin Gospel Church, Kiwanis of Morgan City as well as many others will benefit from the proceeds.
Downtown comes alive with continuous free live music performed by local and national artists at the Petroleum Heritage Music Stage. Time Peace, will kick off the festival at 6 PM on Friday, September 4th followed by The Chee Weez at 8:30 PM. Johnny Firmin and American Heart will begin at 1 PM Saturday, September 5th followed by Dustin Ray and Southern Groove at 3:30 PM, MoJeaux at 6 PM and Bag of Donuts at 9 PM. On Sunday, September 6th, Tommy G & Stormy Weather will begin at 1:00 PM followed by Knight Train at 3:30 PM, Chubby Carrier and the Bayou Swamp Band at 6:00 PM and Hip Boot Joe at 9 PM. On Monday, September 7th, Ruff-n-Ready will perform at 1 PM, followed by Foret Tradtion at 3:00 PM, Waylon Thibodaux at 5:00 PM and Don Rich at 7:00 PM.
Listen and enjoy one of the South’s most loved and heartfelt forms of music at the Fellowship of Love Gospel Stage, located inside M.D. Shannon Elementary Gymnasium. Entertainment is scheduled to begin Saturday, September 5th and continue through Sunday, September 6th.
The Cultural and Heritage Expo, to be held at Louisiana Shrimp & Petroleum Festival Visitor Center located at 715 Second Street, will feature exhibits, films, demonstrations and literature that focus on the area’s unique culture. The Expo will be open Saturday through Monday, 10 AM to 3 PM. .
Traditional activities include the Coronation Court, Mass in the Park and the Blessing of the Fleet. The Coronation Court will be held Saturday, August 29, 2009 at 7:30 PM. at the Municipal Auditorium with the crowning of a new King and Queen. The Court & Pageant is a ticketed event.
The community will give thanks for its blessings at Mass in the Park. Mass in the Park begins at 8:30 AM Sunday, September 6th and will be celebrated under the oaks in Lawrence Park. Father Gregg Fratt of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Morgan City will be the celebrant and will feature the 2009 King and Queen and the Knights of Columbus outfitted in full regalia. In the event of rain, services will be held at Holy Cross Catholic Church. Everyone is invited to attend.
The Historic Blessing of the Fleet sponsored by Tidewater, will begin at 10 AM Sunday, followed by the water parade, which features decorated shrimp boats, pleasure craft, offshore supply boats and some of the biggest “muscle” boats of the offshore industry including supply boats, crew boats and tugboats.
The annual Street Parade will be led by the U.S.C.G. Color Guard, Marine Safety Office, Morgan City. It is set to begin at 3 PM and will feature festival royalty, visiting queens, local bands and civic organizations.
Other festivities include the gigantic Fireworks on the River display at 9 PM. on Sunday night, co-sponsored by Bollinger Shipyards and Teche Regional Medical Center, Central Boat Rentals and G & J Land & Marine, the 100 Black Men 12th Annual 5-K Run/Walk, Doiron’s Landing Annual Labor Day Bass Tournament, the MDA Horseshoe Tournament, and the Artist Guild Unlimited 47th Annual Judged Show & Sale at the Everett Street Gallery.
A demonstration tent, located at 715 Second Street of the festival grounds, will open on Saturday, September 5th at 1 p.m. Three demonstrations, lasting two hours each, will be featured. Products will be sold.
A shuttle service, sponsored by People Haulers, Inc. will be offered to guests at Lake End Park and local hotels to the festival grounds. Shuttle service will run Saturday, September 5th to Sunday, September 6th from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.
A car show will be featured on Saturday, September 5th. Hosted by the Louisiana Shrimp & Petroleum Festival and the Cypress Corvette Club, the show will be held on the grounds of MD Shannon Elementary School, 409 Brashear Avenue from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Registration is $25.00. Late fee is $30.00. Awards will be given at 3 p.m. Proceeds will benefit Relay for Life.
A Motorcycle Benefit Run will also be held on Saturday, September 5th from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Beginning in Berwick and ending in Morgan City near the festival grounds, the run will be approximately 125 miles. Proceeds will benefit the Shriner’s Children’s Hospital.
The festival began in 1936 when the placid port of Morgan City and Berwick received the first boatload of jumbo shrimp, fresh from the deepest Gulf waters. The festival became the Louisiana Shrimp & Petroleum Festival in 1967, when the oil industry was firmly implanted into the local economy.
The festival has grown to become one of the state’s premiere festivals. The festival was voted 2009, 2007 & 2006 Festival of the Year in Division III and the best festival in 2001, 2000, 1999 and 1998 by the Louisiana Association of Fairs and Festivals, a top 100 American Bus Association event, and a top 20 Southeast Tourism Society event. In July of 1991 Time magazine described the festival as “...the best, the most unusual, the most down-home, the most moving and the most fun that the country has to offer.”
Festival organizers invite you to bring your family to Morgan City for Labor Day weekend to enjoy 74 years of tradition and family fun. For more information, contact the festival office at (985) 385-0703 or visit the festival’s web site at www.shrimp-petrofest.org. For a festival schedule, contact the Cajun Coast Visitors & Convention Bureau at (800) 256-2931 or the festival office at the above number.
The festival is sponsored by the Louisiana Department of Culture, Recreation & Tourism, Bollinger Shipyards, Teche Reginal Medical Center, Central Boat Rentals, J. Ray McDermott, OGRS LLC, Murphy Oil Corporation, Major Equipment Rental, People Haulers, Tidewater Marine, Laborde Marine, Allen's TV Cable, Amelia Belle Casino, Family of Oliver & Marion Bergeron, Louisiana Lottery, Shell, Tanks a Lot, The Daily Review, API, G & J Land & Marine, US Coast Guard, TK Towing, Sonic of Morgan City, City of Morgan City, St. Mary Parish Government, and Cajun Coast Visitors & Convention Bureau.
For schedules, contact 985-385-0703 or http://www.shrimp-petrofest.org/
###
Louisiana’s oldest chartered harvest festival is scheduled to celebrate 74 years of tradition and family fun this upcoming Labor Day Weekend.
The Louisiana Shrimp & Petroleum Festival will be held September 3-September 7, 2009 in Morgan City, only 90 miles from New Orleans, Baton Rouge and Lafayette. Most festivities are held within the beautiful Downtown Historic District and are free to the general public. Great food, continuous free live music, traditional events and children’s activities will highlight this five-day extravaganza
New events for 2009 events include a shuttle service, car show, motorcycle benefit run and a demonstration tent.
Mitchell Brothers Carnival will kick off the festival, with rides and carnival games at 5 PM Thursday, September 3rd and will continue through Monday.
The traditional arts & crafts show & sale will also open on Friday, September 4th at 5 PM. The event features over 100 artists, crafters and food vendors and will be held under the cover of the US Highway 90 bridge.
The 7th Annual API/USCG Coast Guard Foundation and Louisiana Shrimp & Petroleum Golf Tournament will be held on Friday, September 18th at the Atchafalaya at Idlewild Golf Course in Patterson, an Audubon Golf Trail course and named one of the best courses to play under $75.00 by Golfer’s Digest in 2007 & 2008.. The tournament is co-sponsored by Major Equipment Rental, Laborde Marine, Frantz Marine, Allis Chalmers, Diamond Tank Rentals, King Trucking, Morgan City Rentals, Northbank Towing, Seward Supply, Sun Towing, Landry Harris Insurance and Eastern Shipbuilders.
Children’s Day activities, sponsored by the Family of Oliver and Marion Bergeron, will begin with children’s field & game events Saturday, September 5th at 9 AM. Children of all ages can participate in sack races, three legged races and more. At 1 p.m., professional storytellers will entertain kids as well as their parents with their wonderful stories. The Children’s Day Mini Street Parade will begin at 11:30 AM. Decorated bicycles, wagons, strollers and four wheelers are welcome to participate. The Children’s Day King and Queen will officially open the J Ray McDermott/Teche Regional Medical Center Children’s Village with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 1 PM. Visiting festival queens will also be present. Visiting royalty travel is sponsored by Allen’s TV Cable Service. Featuring a new look, the McDermott/Teche Regional Medical Center Children’s Village, is a magical play land featuring a smoking dragon, games, prizes, face-painting and more and will be open from 1 PM to 5 PM Saturday- Monday.
Indulge your taste buds and satisfy your appetite at the 21st annual Cajun Culinary Classic, a showcase of local “home style” cooking featuring delicious Cajun & Creole dishes. The Cajun Culinary Classic is open 5 PM to 11 PM Friday, noon to 11 PM Saturday & Sunday, and noon to 9 PM Monday. Local non-profit groups and civic organizations such as Central Catholic High School, Christ Gospel Church, Twin Gospel Church, Kiwanis of Morgan City as well as many others will benefit from the proceeds.
Downtown comes alive with continuous free live music performed by local and national artists at the Petroleum Heritage Music Stage. Time Peace, will kick off the festival at 6 PM on Friday, September 4th followed by The Chee Weez at 8:30 PM. Johnny Firmin and American Heart will begin at 1 PM Saturday, September 5th followed by Dustin Ray and Southern Groove at 3:30 PM, MoJeaux at 6 PM and Bag of Donuts at 9 PM. On Sunday, September 6th, Tommy G & Stormy Weather will begin at 1:00 PM followed by Knight Train at 3:30 PM, Chubby Carrier and the Bayou Swamp Band at 6:00 PM and Hip Boot Joe at 9 PM. On Monday, September 7th, Ruff-n-Ready will perform at 1 PM, followed by Foret Tradtion at 3:00 PM, Waylon Thibodaux at 5:00 PM and Don Rich at 7:00 PM.
Listen and enjoy one of the South’s most loved and heartfelt forms of music at the Fellowship of Love Gospel Stage, located inside M.D. Shannon Elementary Gymnasium. Entertainment is scheduled to begin Saturday, September 5th and continue through Sunday, September 6th.
The Cultural and Heritage Expo, to be held at Louisiana Shrimp & Petroleum Festival Visitor Center located at 715 Second Street, will feature exhibits, films, demonstrations and literature that focus on the area’s unique culture. The Expo will be open Saturday through Monday, 10 AM to 3 PM. .
Traditional activities include the Coronation Court, Mass in the Park and the Blessing of the Fleet. The Coronation Court will be held Saturday, August 29, 2009 at 7:30 PM. at the Municipal Auditorium with the crowning of a new King and Queen. The Court & Pageant is a ticketed event.
The community will give thanks for its blessings at Mass in the Park. Mass in the Park begins at 8:30 AM Sunday, September 6th and will be celebrated under the oaks in Lawrence Park. Father Gregg Fratt of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Morgan City will be the celebrant and will feature the 2009 King and Queen and the Knights of Columbus outfitted in full regalia. In the event of rain, services will be held at Holy Cross Catholic Church. Everyone is invited to attend.
The Historic Blessing of the Fleet sponsored by Tidewater, will begin at 10 AM Sunday, followed by the water parade, which features decorated shrimp boats, pleasure craft, offshore supply boats and some of the biggest “muscle” boats of the offshore industry including supply boats, crew boats and tugboats.
The annual Street Parade will be led by the U.S.C.G. Color Guard, Marine Safety Office, Morgan City. It is set to begin at 3 PM and will feature festival royalty, visiting queens, local bands and civic organizations.
Other festivities include the gigantic Fireworks on the River display at 9 PM. on Sunday night, co-sponsored by Bollinger Shipyards and Teche Regional Medical Center, Central Boat Rentals and G & J Land & Marine, the 100 Black Men 12th Annual 5-K Run/Walk, Doiron’s Landing Annual Labor Day Bass Tournament, the MDA Horseshoe Tournament, and the Artist Guild Unlimited 47th Annual Judged Show & Sale at the Everett Street Gallery.
A demonstration tent, located at 715 Second Street of the festival grounds, will open on Saturday, September 5th at 1 p.m. Three demonstrations, lasting two hours each, will be featured. Products will be sold.
A shuttle service, sponsored by People Haulers, Inc. will be offered to guests at Lake End Park and local hotels to the festival grounds. Shuttle service will run Saturday, September 5th to Sunday, September 6th from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.
A car show will be featured on Saturday, September 5th. Hosted by the Louisiana Shrimp & Petroleum Festival and the Cypress Corvette Club, the show will be held on the grounds of MD Shannon Elementary School, 409 Brashear Avenue from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Registration is $25.00. Late fee is $30.00. Awards will be given at 3 p.m. Proceeds will benefit Relay for Life.
A Motorcycle Benefit Run will also be held on Saturday, September 5th from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Beginning in Berwick and ending in Morgan City near the festival grounds, the run will be approximately 125 miles. Proceeds will benefit the Shriner’s Children’s Hospital.
The festival began in 1936 when the placid port of Morgan City and Berwick received the first boatload of jumbo shrimp, fresh from the deepest Gulf waters. The festival became the Louisiana Shrimp & Petroleum Festival in 1967, when the oil industry was firmly implanted into the local economy.
The festival has grown to become one of the state’s premiere festivals. The festival was voted 2009, 2007 & 2006 Festival of the Year in Division III and the best festival in 2001, 2000, 1999 and 1998 by the Louisiana Association of Fairs and Festivals, a top 100 American Bus Association event, and a top 20 Southeast Tourism Society event. In July of 1991 Time magazine described the festival as “...the best, the most unusual, the most down-home, the most moving and the most fun that the country has to offer.”
Festival organizers invite you to bring your family to Morgan City for Labor Day weekend to enjoy 74 years of tradition and family fun. For more information, contact the festival office at (985) 385-0703 or visit the festival’s web site at www.shrimp-petrofest.org. For a festival schedule, contact the Cajun Coast Visitors & Convention Bureau at (800) 256-2931 or the festival office at the above number.
The festival is sponsored by the Louisiana Department of Culture, Recreation & Tourism, Bollinger Shipyards, Teche Reginal Medical Center, Central Boat Rentals, J. Ray McDermott, OGRS LLC, Murphy Oil Corporation, Major Equipment Rental, People Haulers, Tidewater Marine, Laborde Marine, Allen's TV Cable, Amelia Belle Casino, Family of Oliver & Marion Bergeron, Louisiana Lottery, Shell, Tanks a Lot, The Daily Review, API, G & J Land & Marine, US Coast Guard, TK Towing, Sonic of Morgan City, City of Morgan City, St. Mary Parish Government, and Cajun Coast Visitors & Convention Bureau.
For schedules, contact 985-385-0703 or http://www.shrimp-petrofest.org/
###
Friday, February 13, 2009
Eagle Expo
The 4th annual Eagle Expo was very successful.
The day started with a tour of schools in Morgan City. The generosity of the Barataria Terrebonne National Estuary Program (BTNEP) allowed Eagle Expo to bring in David Hancock, a noted Eagle expert, two days early to give presentations to school kids. The kids truly enjoyed the presentation and asked lots of great questions.
The Thursday evening function at Oaklawn Manor was great. The Foster's were most gracious hosts and the photography of Jim Byron enhanced the evening.
Friday's boat tours were great. Each boat reported over 20 eagle sightings in addition to other raptors and assorted wildlife. Cajun Jack's tour in the Atchafalaya Basin enjoyed a flock of white pelicans taking off.
Kurt Mutchler, Deputy Director of photography for National Geographic Magazine was the speaker for the Friday evening presentation. Wow! What an evening! The food at the Petroleum Club was delicious and Kurt's presentation was terrific. It's hard not to enjoy spectacular photography.
Saturday morning started with presentations for Tom Hess, a biologist with the Louisiana Department of Wildlife & Fisheries, Ben Thatcher, a biologist with the US Fish & Wildlife Service, Donna Dittman & Steve Cardiff with the LSU Museum of Natural Sciences, Scott Thatcher, a student from UL of Lafayette and David Hancock of the Hancock Wildlife Foundation. The presentations were educational as well as entertaining.
Saturday's boat tours were just as successful as Friday's tours with over 20 eagle sightings - in spite of a sudden down pour at the end of the tour.
The Cajun Coast Visitors & Convention Bureau would like to thank Barataria Terrebonne National Estuary Program and Richard Demay for its knowledge and support. It's sponsors including BTNEP, America's Wetlands, Office of the Lt. Governor of Louisiana, Louisiana Department of Culture, Recreation & Tourism, Black Bear Conservation Committee, Johnny's Propellor Shop and Conrad Industries for its financial support. Thanks to US Fish & Wildlife Service, Louisiana Department of Wildlife & Fisheries for their in-kind support and to volunteers Tom Hess, Mike Carloss, Mitch Smaha, Mike Musemeche, Donna Dittman, Steve Cardiff, Ben Thatcher and Scott Walter.
The day started with a tour of schools in Morgan City. The generosity of the Barataria Terrebonne National Estuary Program (BTNEP) allowed Eagle Expo to bring in David Hancock, a noted Eagle expert, two days early to give presentations to school kids. The kids truly enjoyed the presentation and asked lots of great questions.
The Thursday evening function at Oaklawn Manor was great. The Foster's were most gracious hosts and the photography of Jim Byron enhanced the evening.
Friday's boat tours were great. Each boat reported over 20 eagle sightings in addition to other raptors and assorted wildlife. Cajun Jack's tour in the Atchafalaya Basin enjoyed a flock of white pelicans taking off.
Kurt Mutchler, Deputy Director of photography for National Geographic Magazine was the speaker for the Friday evening presentation. Wow! What an evening! The food at the Petroleum Club was delicious and Kurt's presentation was terrific. It's hard not to enjoy spectacular photography.
Saturday morning started with presentations for Tom Hess, a biologist with the Louisiana Department of Wildlife & Fisheries, Ben Thatcher, a biologist with the US Fish & Wildlife Service, Donna Dittman & Steve Cardiff with the LSU Museum of Natural Sciences, Scott Thatcher, a student from UL of Lafayette and David Hancock of the Hancock Wildlife Foundation. The presentations were educational as well as entertaining.
Saturday's boat tours were just as successful as Friday's tours with over 20 eagle sightings - in spite of a sudden down pour at the end of the tour.
The Cajun Coast Visitors & Convention Bureau would like to thank Barataria Terrebonne National Estuary Program and Richard Demay for its knowledge and support. It's sponsors including BTNEP, America's Wetlands, Office of the Lt. Governor of Louisiana, Louisiana Department of Culture, Recreation & Tourism, Black Bear Conservation Committee, Johnny's Propellor Shop and Conrad Industries for its financial support. Thanks to US Fish & Wildlife Service, Louisiana Department of Wildlife & Fisheries for their in-kind support and to volunteers Tom Hess, Mike Carloss, Mitch Smaha, Mike Musemeche, Donna Dittman, Steve Cardiff, Ben Thatcher and Scott Walter.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)