Allegations of sexually abusive clergy continue to dominate a good part of the news across the nation. There were some legal deadlines approaching last week, so there was a rash of new lawsuits filed. And although this whole priest pedophile scandal has spread worldwide, you may be surprised to learn that the early signs of problems within the Catholic Church emanated right here in Louisiana. I write it this week in my new column now posted. You can read it by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.
As most of you know, former NFL all star quarterback Peyton Manning is from down in Louisiana. Everyone claims to know the man and his famous family and follow all their exploits. I’m no exception. Paeton is now retired and doing some really creative commercials. And usually a funny one of him at a retirement home. He’s Quite a guy. Take a look.
Thank goodness it’s starting to warm up. Springtime means lots of things. And one of the big items for me is the kickoff of the baseball season. I’m a regular at spring training down in Tampa Florida. And I’m a diehard Yankees fan. I’ll tell you why in my new column that is now posted. You can read it by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.
The FBI is under attack by news media and public officials all over the country for failing to aggressively take action to stop the riots against the Capitol in Washington,DC on January 6. There were any number of warnings that riots against the nation’s Capitol would take place. Although there was much material out there showing the certainty of an attack, one FBI office only in Virginia routinely sent a short email that virtually no one in authority ever saw. It’s tragic that people lost their lives, and so much violence and damage took place because of the incompetence of the FBI. To see just a typical new story, you can read a typical press report by NPR by Clicking Here. And this from The New York Times.”The officials testified that the F.B.I. and the intelligence community had failed to provide adequate warnings that rioters planned to seize the Capitol.” To read more, Click Here.
I agree with many Louisianans feel like our former president, Donald Trump, did some positive things during his four years in public office. But his downfall was his big mouth. He just couldn’t help but criticizing those who’s stars shine as brighter brighter than him. One example are the military heroes, particularly from Louisiana. Trump, for all practical purposes, was a draft dodger. Yet he continues to take pot shots at those who served our country. This certainly will taint his legacy. I write about Trump’s big mouth in this week’s column. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.
As most of you know, former NFL super quarterback Peyton Manning is from my home state Louisiana. One of the greatest football players of all time. But he hasn’t left the public eye. He’s produced a lot of comic videos and advertisements. Check out his retirement home below.
Mardi Gras this year was a deserted day. Take a look at Bourbon Street. Hoping for a return to normal next year.
Wish we were parading and catching beads. We will just have to wait it out until next year.
Like most Americans, I’m concerned about domestic terrorism that’s been taking place throughout the country. It’s happening by groups on both the right and the left. But I’m also concerned about the loss of our personal freedoms. The so-called Patriot Act is now allowing the government to spy on more and more Americans, and take away their constitutional protections. I write about it in this week’s column. You could read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.
I always loved the crowd singing, with me joining in, a great song YMCA. It’s a song that gets the crowds going at sporting events, and any other type of large gathering. I get a little confused taking my arms to form out the letters, but I always enjoy trying. Here’s a group called the Quiddlers from Las Vegas, performing a really funny adaption of the song on America’s Got Talent. Take a look and see if you agree that it’s great entertainment.
Every yearly Mardi Gras weekend, I join a crowd of old friends, particularly a number of former elected officials. Governors, judges, other state wide officials and legislators all gather in the New Orleans French Quarter on one of the balconies shown to the left. A great gathering to renew all friendships. Unfortunately, because of the virus, we won’t be getting together this year. It’s really a shame not to be able to enjoy longtime relationships. We will just have to wait until next year.
I am an unabashed huge fan of Mardi Gras. I’ve been going to the annual Fat Tuesday, celebration for almost 60 years. And for those of you that haven’t followed the Mardi Gras tradition, it’s not just one day. It’s a whole season lasting over a month. The feeling of Mardi Gras is captured, in my opinion, best by Professor Longhair. Check out his rendition of going to the Mardi Gras below. I’m really sorry we’re going to miss Mardi Gras this year because of the pandemic. But I’m already gearing up for next year.
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There supposedly is about to be a major push by the Biden administration to put a civil rights activist, one Harriet Tubman, on the $20 bill. In doing so, Louisiana hero Andrew Jackson will be sent out to pasture. One of the knocks on Jackson by current critics is that he was a slaveholder. Well, so were Washington (one dollar bill), Jefferson (two dollar bill), Grant (Fifty Dollar bill), and Madison (five thousand dollar bill). Louisiana would not be a stay today if we’re not for Andrew Jackson. I set up my arguments to leave the $20 bill as it is in my new column now posted. You could read it by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.
If there was an ever a life full of laughter, gracious, caring and just to an all around good guy, it was my brother-in-law former state representative Steve Carter. Steve unfortunately passed away last week having contracted the Covid virus. He was a young 77 years old. Accolades from people all over the state have come in from throughout the country and the praise and sympathy has been overwhelming. There is a great review of Steve’s many accomplishments by Baton Rouge Business Report Editor JR Ball. He does a first rate job of putting Steve’s life in perspective. To read his moving article, Click Here.
My longtime friend of many years, former state Senate president Michael O’Keefe, passed away this past week. He was 89 years old. Mike was my mentor when I was elected to the Louisiana State Senate back in 1972. He put me on key committees, and looked after me as a young lawmaker in the early days of the Edwards Administration
In the 1960s, she said her father was a strong proponent of racial equality and social justice. She said one of the first bills he introduced in the senate dealt with integrating public schools. “He got exactly one vote. It took about six years of him introducing the bills and talk more senators into supporting it,” she said.
While in the legislature, Mike O’Keefe also played a major role in building support for the funding and construction of the Louisiana Superdome, the Morial Convention Center and many other public projects. Mike O’Keefe was the first Senate president to be elected by his fellow senators under the new 1974 state constitution. Prior to that, the lieutenant governor served as senate president, as is the case in many other states. He was a real gentleman and an all around good guy. We will sure miss him.
The Keystone pipeline has become an issue now President Joe Biden has canceled any further construction. The oil industry in Louisiana is pleading how important a Keystone pipeline is to the economic future of Louisiana. My reaction? Hogwash! The issue will not mean diddlysquat to the Bayou State. No new jobs will be created and not a dime of economic development. Read my view in my now column now posted. You can read it by going to the Flashing Red Box above, or by Clicking Here.
Here’s a great parody of Donald Trump’s final day in office.Late Show host James Corden arrives at work in a good mood knowing there’s only One Day More of monologue jokes with Donald Trump serving as President of the United States. Glad we are able to laugh at this weird and unsettling ending.
I always wanted to be a good fiddle player. Yes, I bought several fiddles, I have instructional books, and I even went over to Tom’s Fiddle and Bow, a fiddle shop located in the small south Louisiana community of Arnaudville. The trash I made, I just couldn’t learn the chords at my age. I wish I would’ve started much younger. If you want to see an outstanding little performance, check out Michael Cleveland & Flamekeeper performing “Lee Highway Blues.” This guy is an exceptional fiddle player.
The FBI again is facing heavy criticism for their failure to adequately anticipate the violence that took place in Washington DC last week. Their local office in Virginia had expressed some ‘concerns,” but the agency failed to assess and predict the level of the mayhem and violence that took place. Blunderings by the FBI are nothing new. Check out the post this week about the terrible tragedy that took place in Louisiana, involving respected LSU professor. You can read it now by clicking on the Red Flashing Box above water by Clicking Here.
If you’re a college football fan, it’s time to fess up and call it just like it is. There are some great coaches in college football, but hands-down, Alabama coach Nick Sabin is the best. Numero Uno. His Crimson Tide team absolutely demolished Ohio State in this past Monday night’s national championship game. Oh I know it’s tough for LSU fans to except. But he won a national championship when he was in Baton Rouge. I write about Sabin’s success, and I add some personal stories of my own. Check out my new column. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.
My law school roommate, Bill Weinberg who lives up in eastern Kentucky, has written a perceptive Op Ed article on the changing nature of US Senate majority leader Mitch McConnell. You will be fascinated to read that Bill’s wife Lois ran against McConnell some years back, and the Weinberg’s have certainly been critical of McConnell in recent years. Bill’s article shows a real understanding of political figures in Washington, and the change in McConnell’s stature. It’s well worth the read. You can review the article now by Clicking Here.
For those of you who have read my new book, My Louisiana Odyssey, you know that I wrote about rock and roller Jerry Lee Lewis, who was my first client when I started practicing law up in the little town of Ferriday, Louisiana. Jerry lee is 85 now, and slowing down a bit, but still has lots of fans all over the world. Here’s a great tribute to Jerry Lee by a young rock and roller, Jacob Tolliver. I wish I’d been there for the concert.
Should trials in America be televised? Particularly when there is great public interest? This would seem to be a no brainer. Of course they should. But many courts, particularly in the federal system, do not allow cameras in the quart room. The Supreme Court of the United States specifically for bids and he said cameras. What kind of a democratic system is that? Check out my new column and see my thoughts on this important issue. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.
Hopefully, we all are kicking off the New Year on a positive note. It’s an understatement to say that 2020 wasn’t much of a year for any of us. But I am hopeful, as I’m sure you are, of a much better prognosis for all of us in 2021. Do you make New Year’s resolutions? I always do. Take a look at my New Year’s column and my thoughts about 2020. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or By Clicking Here.
I hope you’re ready for the many holiday events that will take place in the coming days. In this week’s column, I write about this special time of year. It begins at Thanksgiving when the pilgrims came to America and were looking for a second chance. Then on to Christmas, when we were given a second chance through the birth of Jesus Christ. Soon it will be New Year’s. A new beginning. So take a look at my Christmas column now posted. Maybe it’s time for all of us to have a second chance. And to you and your family, a Merry Christmas and a happy holiday season. You can read the column now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.
During this holiday season, we all know that lots of social drinking takes place. Often, it’s not responsible. Louisiana has as one of the highest percentages of drunk drivers and accidents involving drunk drivers in the nation. We pay through higher insurance rates. But we also pay in loss of lives in serious injury. What could be done to stop the outrageous Numbers of drunk drivers? I take it look at some of the solutions in this week’s column. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.
OK, I’ll admit it. I’m a big pumpkin pie a guy. I can eat pumpkin pie all year long but I save it up for the holidays. Not the healthiest thing to eat, but it sure taste good. Here’s my group of pumpkins for the year. Good eating to take place.
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You’ve heard of the domino effect haven’t you? Well it could be about to take place in Louisiana. With the retirement of New Orleans congressman Cedric Richmond, there’s an opportunity for a number of things to happen. Who else from Louisiana could be considered to receive an appointment by the president? Is our present Louisiana governor in the mix? And if he is, what happens next? I raise a number of these questions in my new column. You could read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.
My friend of many years Julia Reed passed away recently from cancer at the age of 59. She was certainly one of the most interesting, entertaining, and full of life people I ever met. She was a marvelous writer of southern life, and her columns appeared in newspapers and magazines all over the nation. Julia was simply a larger than life personality, and so much fun to be around. She was a Mississippi girl, born in Greenville and spent much of her time between her long time at home there and down in New Orleans. I sure will miss my dear friend.
Celebrity Chef John Besh was in town for a special cooking event this week. The Chef always calls me for a few cooking tips when he’s in town. (Yeah, right!)
We thought the election was over on November 3rd. But there’s a flurry of lawsuits challenging the results in a few key states. Voter fraud is being alleged, and many states are reviewing the way they run their elections. The good news is that down here in the Bayou State, things went pretty well. We have a good system in place, and there were very few complaints. I’ll review some post-election thoughts in my new column now posted. You can read it by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.
The video above gives a moving and poignant reminder of the horrors of war. But so few Americans rarely acknowledge those who serve in the military.I felt an obligation to continue the service to my country. Yes, I’m a patriot and I make no bones about it. I’m a past judge advocate for the American Legion in Louisiana. The American flag flies outside my home 365 days a year. I wear my military dog tags while I broadcast my syndicated radio program each week (NG25520050). This is not an effort to pat myself on my patriotic back. Like so many other young men who love their country, it was something I felt a strong obligation to do. So despite the fact that I was draft exempt, I signed up for service in the Army, then stayed for ten additional years in the Louisiana National Guard. So I’m proud to hor those who still see and keep us free.
As the presidential vote counting continues, there have been numerous accusations about vote fraud in a number of states throughout the country. Is voter fraud that rampant? Sure, there are occasional efforts for elections to be tainted, particularly in some of the more rural counties and parishes around the nation. And if you live in Louisiana, there’s been a long history of such allegations. Anything to all these rumors? I review my experience as the state’s chief elections officer and political participant in my new column. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.
We lost another really great Texas outlaw singer and songwriter this week. Billy Joe Shaver for years has been always one of my favorites. Any number of great singers recorded his music. The likes of Willie Nelson, Elvis Presley, Bob Dylan and Johnny Cash to list just a few. Two of my favorite Billy Joe songs are “Honky-Tonk Heroes “and “Old Chunk of Coal.” (I’m just an old chunk of coal, but I’m going to be a diamond someday.) But his best song was a tribute to his son who died of a drug overdose. I listen regularly to Billy Joe singing “I’m Gonna Live Forever.” I had a long visit with him when he played at the Red Dragon Listening Room some years back. A singer’s songwriter, we will sure miss Billy Joe Shaver.
Putting aside all the campaign advertising that’s going on constantly each day on TV, I’m having my fill of many of the ads related to insurance. Sure it’s the trial lawyers, but it’s also the goofy insurance ads. How about that guy with the ostrich who seems completely spaced out walking around in a daze? And what is saying about “buy only by the amount of insurance you actually need.” What does that mean? How much automobile insurance do you really need? Particularly in the state of Louisiana that has the highest insurance rates in the nation. I take a look at this important issue in my new column. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.
I wanted to let my friends and family know that we lost one of my favorite performers last week. Jerry Jeff Walker passed away at 78 years old. You don’t know this but I was the President of the Louisiana chapter of the Jerry Jeff fan club. Jerry Jeff was a Texas country outlaw singer who began his musical career as a New Yorker, but gravitated to Texas and teamed up with the likes of Waylon Jennings, David Allan Coe, Billy Joe Shaver, and Kinky Friedman. Remember “Mr. Bojangles” about an old street performer in New Orleans? My first Jerry Jeff concert was in 1982 at Armadillo World in Austin, a country music venue that held concerts nightly with an atmosphere something like the Flora-Bama beach bar in Gulf Shores, Alabama. There was a sign-up sheet to receive Jerry Jeff’s newsletter and become a member of his fan club. Of course, I joined up.
A few days later, his assistant called to say Jerry Jeff was looking for a president of his fan club in Louisiana. I was secretary of state at the time, but I could always find a few moments to perform my fan club duties for a musical favorite. How could I turn down the author and singer of “To read his obituary in tT New York Times, Click Here. We will miss Jerry Jeff.
With the election for president only a few days away, the negative campaigning doesn’t really educate us very much as to what important issues are facing our country today. If you had the chance, what questions would you put to do to the major candidates running? The economy, obviously the virus, public safety, education, healthcare: there are a whole range of concerns. And in this week’s column, I list a few of the issues I would specifically ask each major presidential candidate. Take a look and see what you think. You can read the new call him now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.
I’m a big Ray Stevens fan, and he has a great way of satirizing so many issues we face in this country today. Take a look at his new video, “The Quarantine Song.”
The supreme court hearings taking place right now show a great division between Republicans and Democrats, reflected throughout the country. It used to be that picking supreme court judges was based on a strong legal background and scholarly accomplishments. Not so anymore. It all comes down to ideology. And these judges are now appointed for life. Should that be the case? Should judges be allowed to stay on the bench clear up in to their 90s? No other public employee at any level has a lifetime appointment. See what you think. My new column is now up, and you can read it by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.
I had planned on being up in Marksville Louisiana this week, speaking to the Louisiana State Retired Employees Association. I made the commitment to attend over a year ago, and I was really looking forward to getting to know old friends again. I was a state employee up until 2002, and have enjoyed staying in touch with many retired employees over these last 18 years. Since I couldn’t be there in person because of the virus, the association leadership asked me to do a remote video reminiscing over my time in public life, and about my new book, My Louisiana Odyssey. My speech is below on video. I hope you will enjoy it.
I suppose fall is my favorite time of year. Way too hot in the summertime, particularly down here in Louisiana. And we don’t get much of a winter. Our family has had a home up in the North Carolina mountains for many years. It’s really a treat this time of year to go up and see all the leaves change. The colors are breathtaking. We are looking forward to going out that way in the coming weeks. Take a look at this video below showing the gorgeous fall colors will come out. I tried to pay the bed, and I cannot come close to expressing these vibrant colors. Thought you’d like the video below.
Mike Foster was quite a guy. The Louisiana governor did not fit the mold of those who seek the state’s highest office. He was a multimillionaire from Franklin Louisiana, a small town located down in Cajun country. He loved to fish, and I had the opportunity to hang out at his camp with him on a number of occasions. He also was a pretty good politician. I reminisce about the Governor in my new column that is now posted. You can see it by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.
I hope you have registered to vote in this important coming election. Everybody has an opinion about voting for the president and many other candidates. I’m a JibJab fan, and the message is clear below. Go Vote!
Even us old folks enjoy good music, and like to get out of the dance floor and kick up our heels. Here’s a great cross-section of friends joining in to dance and sing “Roll Out the Barrel,” one of my favorites.
It seems like everyone we know are going to vote in the coming presidential election by mail- in ballot. Some experts say as many as 50% of all votes cast will be done this way. But then the problems begin. It could take weeks, or even longer to count all these ballots. And are not voters missing out on the friendly and personal experience of voting in person? I know there are long lines, but it just seems the patriotic thing to do to go into your voting booth, possibly take a grandchild, and cast your vote. I talk about all this in my new column now posted. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.
Hey you know what? I’m a product of the 50s. My high school days are some of the best memories of my life. I went to high school in St. Louis Missouri, and the Ronnie Milsap video below pretty well sums up my great memories of the early part of my life. If you’re too young to remember the 50s, take a meander below and see if you recognize any of these special events and special people.
The President vetted a number of Court of Appeals judges in the process of filling a vacancy on the US Supreme Court created following the death of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. He announced from the beginning that his pick was going to be a woman. So naturally, the seven women on the fifth circuit Court of located in New Orleans might feel they were under consideration for the appointment. Good luck with that was the view of close court watchers. The Fifth Circuit is loaded with incompetent judges. Check out my new column to see my views. You can read them now by clicking on the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.
OK, OK. I know The New York Times is not a popular publication down here in the deepest of the deep southern states. And boy did they get things riled up in a recent article on the editorial page saying that black athletes are being exploited at LSU. They went further to say that whenever LSU gets beat in football, judges in Louisiana are harder on defendants, particularly in the person charged is black. Hummmm! Are you skeptical? Take a look at my new column where I analyze the national publication article. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.
It was 19 years ago this week. A horrific scene glued by TV watchers all over the world, as two planes hit the World Trade Center in New York City. So many lives lost, and so many questions still on answered. This event dramatically changed our lives, and brought a whole new wave of security facing all Americans. Where were you on 9/11? I write about my personal experiences in this week’s column. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.
Louisiana has always lagged far behind other states in educational attainment. Now we just get some news from the state Board of Education. If your kids are going to learn virtually, they have to have access to the Internet. So what’s new? This information has been obvious for a number of years. I wrote about it in this column eight years ago. Take a look at my column now to see my thoughts on why the state is lagging so far behind. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.
I have always been fascinated by the Dutch artist Vincent van Gogh. He was known to transmute vibrant colors and great detailing of his everyday observations onto the canvas. The poor artist died with little money and during his lifetime, he managed to sell only one painting. Often referred to as the ‘Mad Artist,’ van Gogh is today regarded as one of the most popular Post-impressionist painters. Many of his paintings are on exhibit in Paris, and below is a marvelous visual video portrait of the amazing and gifted painter. I thought you might enjoy.
To mask or not to mask? That is the question. Here’s a fun parody of whether or not to mask based on the hit Broadway Musical Hamilton. Checkout what side you are on.
Another cleanup begins as Hurricane Laura devastates the Gulf coastline and moves up through Louisiana. Fifteen years ago this week, Hurricane Katrina wreaked havoc and tore into the soul of New Orleans and south Louisiana. It was one of the most trying times in the state’s history. I look back at my personal experience with Katrina, and ask, do we still have much to learn about dealing with these massive storms that will continue in the future? You can read my new column now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.
As I have written before on this website, I wish I were a really good dancer. Looking back over these 80 years, I just wish I had danced a lot more.There are so many really good dancers today.Take a look at the video below to see the cast of Ghee do some really creative dancing. And so did the video technicians who put this video together.
It’s always a treat hanging out with my buddy Tony Bennett. He looks great for being 94 years old. (Oh alright! You caught me. The photo was taken at Madame Tussaud’s wax museum in Las Vegas. We both look pretty good in wax, don’t we?)
If you live in Louisiana, you were bombarded with assurances by the insurance industry that new laws limiting the rights of policyholders would show a dramatic drop in the cost of automobile insurance. 25% by the end of this year. But guess what? It looks like you policyholders really got conned. Now the insurance lobbyists are saying, well not so fast. Your rates are really going to go up! What gives? Check out my new column and see what you think. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.
Are you getting tired of staying home and binge watching so much TV? All right, I know there’s a limited amount that you can do with a pandemic going on. And like you, I’ve watched any number of TV series and old movies. One of my favorites is about the outlaw Jesse James. You might be surprised to know that there are some real controversy about just where Jessie ended up. And would you be surprised to know that it just could be here in Louisiana? Check out my new column now posted. You can read it by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.
Sure, I pick up my iPhone regularly, and I am on social media a good bit. But how much is it affecting us? Social Media and technology can connect us, but it can also harm us. Take a look at today’s generation and their digital addiction. And see what did you think?
Bourbon Street in the New Orleans French Quarter is still dead as a door nail. Do you think it will ever come back?
How about those little critters that seem to be taking over Louisiana and other coastal states? Nutria didn’t exist down here in deep South until the last 50 years. What to do? What to do? Are there any solutions? Well, yes, if you want to be experimental. Did you know that these little varmints make a tasty dish? Now don’t rush to judgment. Read my new column and see if you agree. It may change your whole gastronomic approach to your next meal. You can read the column now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.
Here are some big news. We have a new podcast basis. My colleague Rannah Gray and I have started a podcast about the fascinating things one can find in our home state of Louisiana. And where to begin? Whether it is the food, the music, art, politics, you name it, Louisiana is often called the most northern of the Caribbean countries. Our first episode is listed below. So take a listen and learn some new things you might not know about the Bayou State.
Do you like to dance? I sure do. OK, I’m not very good at it. But everyone likes to think they have a little rhythm, and get out on the dance floor from time to time. Actually, I was pretty good back in high school. That’s why I like the movie, Footloose so much. Here’s a great video below of many of the great dance scenes, all to the same Footloose song. Take a look and listen.
Money, money, money goes the song from the Broadway show Cabaret. And this should be an issue in Louisiana comes to electing state judges. Insurance lobbyists push through legislation in the recent session of the Louisiana Legislature that limits rulings of judges when it comes to automobile injury cases. But if money is the problem, why did not the legislature deal with that issue of campaign contributions to judges? I write about this thorny problem in this week’s column. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.
What do you do when you’re in the middle of a pandemic, stuck at home, and bored to death? You read of course! Book sales are at an all-time high throughout the country, as people have more free time. I write about the joy reading in this week’s column. And you’ll find some interesting facts about. reading in other countries. Take a look and see if I have sparked your interest in picking up a good book, particularly if it’s from The Lisburn Press. You can read the column now by clicking on the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.
Chef Paul Prudhomme is a Louisiana national treasure. He put Louisiana on the map of culinary specialties to food buffs all over the world. Chef Paul died some years back, but his name and reputation has continued over the years at K Paul’s restaurant in New Orleans. Sadly, now it is closed for good. I take a look at Chef Paul’s career, and my long friendship with him in this week’s column. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.
We hear so much about social distancing today. You would think it’s a brand new idea, and obviously quite necessary as we fight this pandemic. Well keeping your distance is not all that new. Take a look at this great Buster Keaton movie from 1920 as they are social distancing way back then.
The Louisiana legislature just passed new laws that are supposed to reduce auto insurance rates. 25% reduction says the insurance commissioner. And before the end of the year. Realistic? Of course not. There’s a lot more to reducing insurance rates in the Bayou State than clamping down on people’s right to sue. I take a look at this problem in my new column, and outline what really should have been done rather than the smokescreen that was passed by the legislature. Don’t go spending money you think you’re going to get. You can read my column now by clicking on the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.
Are we supposed to be politically correct in everything we do? Some people think so. Well there are issues involving race, gays, transgenders, praying in public, and even who can or cannot bake a cake. Everything we do these days has a “politically correct” connotation attached to it. Have we gone to far in America, or is there some middle ground to allow freedom of expression without offending others? Check out my new column to see what I think and to decide if you agree. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.
As part of my pandemic defense, our family is up on the Blue Ridge Mountains south of Boone North Carolina for the summer. And look who I came across. I’ve found a new hiking buddies. He’s lots of laughs. And we are both keeping up common sense protections.
Can any of us even remember life before the digital age? Things were so much simpler then. We were sitting down at family meals, spending lots of time reading, never looking down at iPhones, because they did not exist. Actually, one of the only benefits of the current pandemic is the fact that we have more free time. Check out the video below to see what life was like in simpler times, and maybe we can now adopt some of these relaxing and creative methods to focus on your own life. I’m sure try to do so.
We are living in uncertain times, with COVID-19, economic problems, and racial confrontations. But political life goes on, and both Democrats and Republicans are preparing for their national conventions. New Orleans was in the running for the Republican national convention up until a few weeks ago. In my new column, I talk about the last time the city held such a convention, and why the Crescent city is such an appealing location for large gatherings. You can read the column now by Clicking Here or going to the Red Flashing Box above.
I’ve seen a number of Broadway shows in my life, but at the top of my list has always been Les Miserables. The music is wonderful, and it’s a compelling story about the French revolution. If you’ve never seen the show, I would urge you to do so. Below is a shopping center flash mob who put on quite a performance. It’s certainly worth taking a look.
New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees has stirred up a real hornet’s nest of controversy over standing for the national anthem. He didn’t make a big deal about it. He just said in his opinion you should stand. Boy the criticism sure rained down on him. So what do you think? Is it unpatriotic to sit during the national anthem? Take a look at my new column and see what I think. I don’t hold back. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.
I’m cooking up a storm with fresh vegetables up in the North Carolina mountains. It was 38° this morning when I got up to start cooking. Who knows, I might put out a new addition of the famous “Jim Brown’s World-Famous Squirrel Stew and other Country Recipes.” Stay tuned.
All over the nation, there are a wave of protests over what many feel is the continuing glorification of many events in our nation’s past. How far should we as a country go in obliterating monuments, images, writings, motion pictures, and other symbols that often memorialize individuals whose past actions are today politically incorrect? I write about many of these contradictions in this weeks column. You could read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.
Are you ready for this year’s Democratic and Republican national convention? Quite a change from years past. We’re not even sure at this stage whether the parties will even have a convention. I’ve had the opportunity of attending seven different national conventions, both democratic and Republican. Remember picking candidates in smoke-filled rooms? I do. I talk about several of the conventions I attended in this week’s column. You can read it now by clicking on the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.
When it comes to operating the congress in the nation’s capitol, one would think that we were still in the horse and buggy days. Members of congress spend half their time flying back and forth from their home districts to Washington, D.C. And often it’s for routine matters and non-controversial committee hearings. We can do so many things virtually form banking to purchasing online. Why can’t the congress act, in some limited way, remotely and spend more time in their congressional districts? I discuss this option in my new column now posted. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.
This past weekend, Memorial Day weekend, we were to pause and honor those who served and gave their lives for our nation. Relatives on both sides of my family served their country with honor and distinction. My Uncle had quite a navel military career. In the final months of World War II, Commander Jack Gentry was flying a reconnaissance mission over the Pacific when his flight cameras captured photos of the Japanese flotilla. He made the cover of Life Magazine as his pictures allowed a direct attack on the enemy fleet that sped up the ending of the war with Japan. He went on to command the battleship USS Enterprise until his retirement from the Navy in the 1960s. Our thanks to all our military heroes.
As terrible as the coronavirus is, life goes on, and there is a wave of comedy making fun of what we are going through in our daily lives.Here’s one of may parodies below:
DOES LOUISIANA CARE ABOUT OLD PEOPLE?
The Coronavirus has caused havoc in Louisiana and all over the U.S. But the damage has been shouldered mostly by older people. So the question is-does Louisiana, and many other states, really care that much about our senior citizens? I take a look at this troubling question in this week’s column, and you’ll be surprised at some of the things I found. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.
Check out below the Erie picture of looking down a deserted Bourbon Street in the downtown New Orleans French quarter. One of my very favorite restaurants is Galatoire’s, that you can see in the picture on the left. It’s hard to find a better meal anywhere in the world than you could get at Galatoire’s. I’ve been there 100s of times. I “˜ve walked up Bourbon Street for more than 60 years, starting when I was a student at Tulane university law school. I’ve never seen Bourbon Street so attractive, or so empty. I’ll look forward to the time where it’s busy again, filled with people, and allowing me to enjoy great meals at Galatoire’s.
THE NEW NORMAL IN OUR LIVES!
I’ve just turned 80 years old, and who could have predicted what the world is going through now? Who could have ever imagined that our lives would so dramatically change by a virus that just a few months ago was dismissed by our leaders as a minor problem that really would not affect our lives that much. A little social distancing and we will all be back to normal in no time. How wrong they were. Read observations in my new column now posted. You can read it by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.
I find a pleasant surprise now and then when older books that have been published by The Lisburn Press turn up. A friend of mine was checking out a flea market over theLafayette area recently, and look what he found. My first book, printed back in 2005, is still making the rounds. It’s not selling in the large volume that I experienced in the first few years after publication. But one turns up every now and then. Nice to see such books are still circulating.
Below are some of my personal thoughts and observations as I reach a new milestone-turning 80 years old. I also write about my thoughts about the past, present and future in my new column now posted. You can read it by Clicking Here or by going to the Red Flashing Box above.
Well, at least all you readers have plenty of time for this now. So many goo books to read. Check out many of our new publications at www.thelisburnpress.com, or click on The Lisburn Press link on the right side of this page.
On our front door is a drawing by 9 year old grandniece Yvie Hunt, thanking all the service workers and responders who are helping us daily get through this difficult time. Yvie is saying in her drawing that even we have to be isolated, we are not alone.
I’ve been a John Prine fan for many years. Always wanted to see him in person. He died yesterday, but just take a listen to his ode to going to heaven. My kind of wish and my kind of dude.
Each year on April 1st, I make it a habit of posting a funny April fool’s joke. Not this year. Sad to say it’s not April fool but April Cruel. Let’s all pray we get through this month safe and healthy.
Do I look bored at home or what? I asked wife Gladys what will be the highlight of our day. She said “Let’s change the sheets.”
My book tour, like so many other events, has come to a temporary end. We’ve canceled all the book signings that were set for March April and early May. Here’s hoping but this terrible virus will be contained, and we will get back to our normal way of life in the not too distant future. We are scheduling a number of fall events for my book My Louisiana Odyssey, as well as book signings and presentations by other authors whose books will be published by The Lisburn Press.
My last book presentation was to the Bunkie Rotary club, arranged by my longtime friend Claudia Norman. Claudia and I are pictured below at a great seafood restaurant in Bunkie. Keep checking this site, for continuing updates. Good luck to us all in fighting a war against this terrible virus outbreak.
The Brown book tour took a break over the past 10 days to celebrate Mardi Gras, then head back east. As you can see, heavy snow falling in the Blue Ridge mountains, up in Linville, North Carolina. I’ll be returning and back on the tour next week (March 3rd) and will speak and sign My Louisiana Odyssey at the weekly meeting of the Zachery Rotary Club.
It’s crawfish season here in the Bayou State, and a regular stop for me as a travel throughout South Louisiana is Crawfish Town USA in Henderson, La. Even has-been politicians like me still have their name on a chair. I was there this week to sit in my own chair and eat lots of boiled mudbugs. Quite a treat.
