The book signings continue all over Louisiana. This coming week, I’ll be speaking to the Ville Platte Rotary Club, The Luling Rotary Club and the Roundtable Club in New Orleans.

Guest at  the Hammond Rotary Club recently.

A good turn out at the Northshore Kiwanis Club in Mandeville.

With Rotary President Rebecca Jacob a the Denham Springs Club.

A visit and book signing last week to the Ponchatoula Rotary Club.

Three long time friends getting together to visit at Mike Anderson’s restaurant in Gonzales this week. That’s former state senate president Mike O’Keefe on the left and Governor Edwin Edwards. We old guys are all hangin’ in there The Governor is 92 and Mike is 88. I’m the kid in the group.

It was treat renewing old friendships at the Alexandria Rotary Club this week. Central Louisiana was my home for many years. I not only swapped many stories, but also sold a good number of copies of “My Louisiana Odyssey.” I’m pictured here with Professor Robert Wright from LSU in Alexandria (left) and old friend Ed Caplan, who for many years has had a clothing store in Alexandria.

A pleasant visit to Vidalia (just across the Mississippi River from Natchez, Mississippi) to speak to the Concordia Parish Library Association about my new book, “My Louisiana Odyssey.” A number of students pictured here from the Vidalia High School were in attendance to learn a little Louisiana history. This week’s speaking schedule is listed below:

January 21^st-Alexandria Rotary Club-noon

January 22^nd-Hammond Rotary Club-noon

January 23^rd-Northshore Kiwanis Club-noon-Covington

January 28^th-Gonzales Rotary Club-noon

Speaking this past Thursday to the Ferriday Rotary Club up in my old hometown. Attorney Joey Booth is incoming Rotary Club president.  His dad, Judge Leo Boothe is a longtime friend.  Leo Young on my right helped me get started in Ferriday some 50 years ago.  It was a treat to see old friends and talk about my new book, “My Louisiana Odyssey.”

A nice visit this past week with the Baton Rouge Lions Club to discuss my new book, “My Louisiana Odyssey.”  Club members had many Bayou State stories to share with me themselves. Maybe for a new book.  I’m pictured with club members John Fontenot and David Young.

It was good to be in Natchitoches this past week visiting old friends and speaking about my book to the Natchitoches Rotary Club.  Former State Senator Don Kelly and I had a long visit, reminiscing about starting off in the legislature together back in the 1970s. I’m pictured below with Rotary members including long time friend attorney John Luster (right).

The new book, “My Louisiana Odyssey,” is being distributed all over the south. I’m pictured here in Boone, North Carolina at The Foggy Pine bookstore with owner Mary Ruthless, where my book is being distributed. Glad to see the interest in Louisiana by folks up in the Blue Ridge Mountains. More information about the book by going to www.jimbrownla.com.

Hopefully, we all are kicking off the New Year on a positive note. LSU is on the verge of winning a national championship, the Saints are in the playoffs, and initially, there’s real spirit of optimism. I sure hope it lasts. 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.

Happy New Year to All. 2020 will be a good year for you to write a book.

Looking forward to the Holidays with old friend Father Cleo Milano, pastor of Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church in Baton Rouge.  I’ll be slowing down a bit over the holidays but Father Cleo will have his work cut out with a full scale of Christmas and New Year’s services and other events.  Happy Holidays to all my friends.

Most of us have been swept up in the momentum of the holiday season. We have passed Thanksgiving, reached the Christmas milestone and are approaching New Year’s Day, the third in the trilogy of holidays. Sure, there is a lot of our attention on holiday shopping, football (especially here in the Bayou State), and social events. But it is also a time to reflect of what the three holidays can mean to all of us.  A second chance, and maybe even a new beginning.  Check out my annual Holiday column by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by  Clicking Here.

My Louisiana Odyssey is now available at local bookstores in the Baton Rouge area.  In Denham Springs, John Cavalier reports brisk sales at the Cavalier Book Store located in the Antique Village on Range Road.  Up in St. Francisville, Missy Couhig has a delightful bookshop on the main street of town called Conundrum Books where My Louisiana Odyssey is on display.  And in Baton Rouge, the city’s oldest bookshop, Cottonwood Books, has a good supply of our new book.  I’m pictured below with Cottonwood Book owner Danny Plaisance who handles sales.  We are lucky to have such quality locally owned bookstores throughout the Baton Rouge are.

An enjoyable lunch with the Baker Rotary Club Most of the members bought my new book, “My Louisiana Odyssey.” Picture below with several of the club’s regular members.

It was a pleasant trip to Northeast Louisiana a few weeks ago when I travelled to Monroe to speak to the Monroe Rotary club. My old friend Dr. Russ Greer was the host and gave me quite the introduction, more than I deserve.  I’ve spoken to this club on numerous occasions in the past, and it was good to renew old friendships. Thanks to the many club members that bought my new book.  I’m pictured below with Dr. Greer (left) and state representative Bubba Chaney.

Spoke this week to the Port Allen Rotary Club and the Kentwood Rotary Club about my new book “My Louisiana Odyssey.” And you have a choice of two covers. How about that.  You can order the book on the right side of this site.

I’ll be talking about my new book, “My Louisiana Odyssey,” as a speaker at the Louisiana Book Festival this weekend at the state capitol in Baton Rouge. Pictured below with Lt. Governor Billy Nunguesser, state librarian Rebecca Hamilton, and author Rannah Gray. Below also is the coming week’s book tour schedule.

Thursday, October 31st”“ Guest on the Jim Engster Radio show. (9:00 am)

Saturday, November 2nd. Featured speaker at the Louisiana Book Festival (Louisiana State Capitol. 11:45 am.)

Louisiana is facing an election runoff for the state’s next governor. Incumbent John Bel Edwards is in the fight of his political life, and not by just taking on the Republican challenger. He is also under assault by Pres. Donald Trump. He’s a Democrat in a Red State, and the question is can he survive? On the other hand, he won election four years ago under the same circumstances. How is the race shaping up? I take a look in this week’s column. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

Also, please note that this is my last column for a while. I’ve been writing a weekly column for the past 16 years and have never missed a week. Hey gang, I need a break. I have family obligations, grandchildren to visit, some traveling to do. Oh, I’ll be back on the scene. And I’ll from time to time give you updates on this website, so stay tuned. I’ve enjoyed writing my column, and i hope to start up again. Talk to you soon.

JIM BROWN’S BOOK TOUR SCHEDULE

Pictured with Cavalier Book Store owner John Cavalier.  Off on a statewide book tour.)

Thursday, October 31^st– Guest on the Jim Engster Radio show.  (9:00 am)

Saturday, November 2^nd.  Featured speaker at the Louisiana Book Festival (Louisiana State Capitol. 11:45 am.)

Tuesday, November 5^th -Speak to St. Francisville Rotary Club.  7:30 am.

Thursday, September 7^th.  Speaker to Monroe Rotary Club.  Noon

Thursday, November 14th.  Kentwood Rotary Club.  Noon   

President Donald Trump has stirred up a hornet’s after he ordered an immediate pullout from northeastern Syria.  Maybe he could have been a bit more diplomatic.  But are a thousand U.S. troops really going to make any major difference in the chaos taking place in this part of the world?  Take  look at this week’ column now posted.  You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking here.

Were you pleased with results in last week’s Louisiana first primary election? Needless to say, the results showed a number of surprises. Incumbent Gov. John Bell Edwards was forced into a runoff, contrary to what to the polls that were taken in the last few weeks. Now there will be quite a knock down drag out run-off with lots of negatives TV spots that will begin soon. And what happened in the insurance commissioners’ race? I give a full explanation in this week’s column. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

The Lisburn Press has published a compelling story of the yellow jacket epidemic in New Orleans back in the in 1800s.  I’m pictured above with author Renee Uzee ,who is speaking all over Louisiana about his popular new book.  It’s available on our website at www.thelisburnpress.com.

The Lisburn Press has been selected for the 2019 Best of Baton Rouge Award in the Book Publisher category by the Baton Rouge Award Program.The Program is an annual awards program honoring the achievements and accomplishments of local businesses throughout the Baton Rouge area. Recognition is given to those companies that have shown the ability to use their best practices and implemented programs to generate competitive advantages and long-term value. We at the Lisburn Press are proud of receiving this high honor.

Did you vote in advance i n the first primary election for numerous offices that were on the ballot? About 35% of the registered voters did in Louisiana. There’s been a huge upturn in people voting early since the laws have been changed. In my column this week, I write about some of the stranger things that happened to me when I absently voted. For instance, why no donuts! Take a look and see what you think. You can read my column now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

I have kicked off my new Louisiana book tour,  to promote my book, My Louisiana Odyssey. At a recent stop was in Lafayette, I spoke to the Lafayette Rotary Club.  As a public official in the past, I have spoken to this large civic club on a number of occasions.  It was a treat to renew old friendships and talk about my new memoir. I’m pictured here with Rotary Club President Nanette Heggie and have put to use my new special cup to good use.

Saturday night Live on NBC, always a bit edgy, had a funny and one the money sketch on race relations in our country last weekend. It’s well worth watching.

With the Louisiana statewide election only a matter of days way, it’s time for me to look into my crystal ball, wave my magic wand, and make predictions of just to who is going to be the winners and losers. Incumbents always have a big advantage and that is certainly true this time around. I’ll look at the statewide races and tell you my observations. Also, voters are straddled with for constitutional amendments. I’ll tell you why it was irresponsible of the Legislature to even put them on the ballot to begin with. So lots to predict with just a few days left until the polls open. It’s all on my new column. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

Absentee voting is just beginning here in Louisiana with statewide election day just a few weeks off. As I’ve written before, there are only two major statewide races on the ballot. There’s a real horse race for governor, and the question is can current incumbent John Bel Edwards win in the first primary. But the second race of interest is that for Insurance commissioner. Long time incumbent Jim Donlon is getting a run for his money, and it looks like challenger Tim Temple is on the verge of real upset. I talk about it in this week’s column. You can read it all now by clicking on the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

Down here in the Bayou State, the election for major offices as well as the legislature and local offices is only a few weeks away. So how do we sum up what people are thinking? BORING! Very little interest, and it’s just quite surprising. After all, voters all over the country are quite mad about their elected officials, and politics in general. I write about this general malaise of little voter interest in my home state in this week’s column. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

 After the debacle of last season’s N.F.C. championship game, you would think officials would be bending over backward to not have a huge missed call go against New Orleans. But in the first half of the much-hyped rematch between the Saints and Rams, Jared Goff fumbled the ball to Cameron Jordan of the Saints, who had a clear path to the end zone for what would have been a game-changing 87-yard touchdown. Not so fast. The play was incorrectly blown dead as an incomplete pass, so New Orleans could not advance the ball. The referees just blew another call…again!

If you come to my website regularly, you know I make fun of both political parties. That’s one of the advantages of being a registered independent. You can be a bit sarcastic on either side. Here’s a good rant for the Republicans. New song out by country singer Brian Lewis titled “I thank my Dog’s a Democrat.”  Take a look and listen and you will smile a bit.

The Louisiana Democratic Party is upset with Republican Secretary of State Kyle Ardoin saying that “Louisiana is one of the most vulnerable states for election interference in the nation.” Any truth to such charges? I happen to know a good bit about the elections process because I served as Louisiana Secretary of State through the 1980s. In this week’s column, I take a look at the concerns expressed by the Democrats and you can read what I think. Also, you might enjoy a little history about election fraud in years past. You can read my column now about going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

State wide elections in Louisiana are just around the corner, and it is an exciting time for political watchers to see the candidates pressing the flesh and attending so many public events throughout the state. Or are they? It’s a sad state of affairs that retail politics have been cast aside by the candidates, particularly at the state-wide level. It used to be that you could not attend any public gathering without being besieged by those who seek public office. But no more. What happened to retail politics? I write about it in this week’s column. You can read it now bye going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

What’s all this talk about America buying the country of Greenland? After all, it’s stuck way up there in the northern corner of the world, and not really worth anything is it? Surprisingly, yes, and it’s certainly in the interest of United States to acquire Greenland if possible. America has acquired land from many other countries throughout the nation’s history. Should we stop now? I take a look at the President’s suggestion of buying Greenland in this week’s column. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

I’ve always been a fan of country singer Johnny Cash. His is music is one of the reasons I took up playing the guitar. And I’ve always admired him for being such a strong patriot. I was particularly taken by his comments you can watch and listen to below regarding the state of America today, and the meaning of the American flag.  It’s worth taking a few minutes to listen.

Election day in Louisiana is less than two months away. There’s very little interest in most of the statewide races, but the governor’s race is turning into a knockdown drag out event. Can current Gov. John Bel Edwards win out right in the first primary? If not, he’s going to be in for a heck of a run-off election, with the possibility of President from getting involved. I look at this whole scenario 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 gubernatorial election in Louisiana is only two months away, as incumbent Gov. John Bel Edwards is on the stump for second term. So is Bobby Jindal running against him? The previous two-term Republican Gov. Is being criticized every campaign stop by Gov. Edwards. You would think he was running against Jindal. But that’s not the case. Regardless, Bobby Jindal continues to be the whipping boy for Democrats. I take a look at Jindal’s career, and give you an explanation as to why. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

And check out the Youtube voided below making  fun at Jindal’s expense.

Election season is here, with qualifications just ending. What should the candidates be talking about? The Bayou State is way behind most other states across the country in many surveys that rank education, economic development, health and overall quality of life.  Does any candidate, from governor on down to the local level, really offer any specifics towards a master plan for the state?  How do we get out of the rut we are in? Or do we just continue to jump from one crisis after the other, with no vision about a solid future for the state?  I write about this dilemma in my new column now posted. You can read it but going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

My good friend Rannah Gray has written a best selling true crime novel, Familiar Evil, and it is being used as the basis for a TV series.  It airs on August 22nd on the Investigation Discovery Network, at 9:00 pm central time.  You don’t want to miss it.  Check out your local listings for your local channel of the Investigation Discovery Network.

A lot of people complain about their elected officials and feel they need better results when it comes to governing on a local, state, or national level. But how do you determine performance? In the private sector, if you invest in a company and don’t like what the leadership is doing, you can all ways sell your stock or pull out of your investment. But what about the public sector? Is there a way to gauge how effective our public officials are doing in their jobs? And then pay them accordingly? I think so, and I talk about it in this week’s column. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

There is nothing tastier and greater varieties of seafood than what we have here on the Gulf Coast. I was anxious to try lobster, clams and other delicacies when I was up in Maine visiting my two oldest grandsons recently. Lobsters were tasty, but unfortunately, our friends on the East Coast know very little about seasoning. You’ve just got to have the Tabasco sauce, don’t you? I write about my experience with Tabasco in this week’s column. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

What a  fun filled weekend recently with  my grandkids at summer camp  up  in northern Maine.  Many of us have memories of cabins by the lake, campfires, overnights in the woods, fishing and hiking through the wilderness, and what we thought was pretty good camp food. Of course, my two oldest grandsons wanted to slip away for some ice cream as you can see we did below.  A great time for all.

We get so caught up in our daily analysis of all the conflicting events that happen in our lives.  It’ nice to have some predictability from time to come,  Here’s a little levity to see things in perspective below.

What on earth is happening to the Democratic Party? In my home state of Louisiana, the state party is working overtime to wipe out any semblance of ties to important past national leaders who made Louisiana what it is today. And on the national level, every Democratic presidential wannabe is fighting tooth and nail to move further to the left in their views on many controversial issues. The Republican Party seem to have good reason to high five. Take a look at 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.

It’s reapportionment time again. Under federal law, every 10 years each state must reapportion it’s state legislature. But the process is fixed. Legislators protect their own interest by drawing district lines to favor their own reelection. A direct conflict of the public interest.  Instead of voters choosing their legislators, it’s the legislators that are picking the voters. That process just doesn’t pass the smell test. Check out my new column about what I think of the whole process. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

Royal Street in the French Quarter on Wednesday, July 10th. A torrential rainstorm.

Political correctness just never seems to end. A number of presidential wannabes are all over former VP Joe Biden for saying he always tried to work with other members of the U. S. Senate, irrespective of their political views. How outrageous! How dare Joe try to reach across the aisle. Of course, this is quite shortsighted, and leads to much of the division we have in this country today. I write about it my new column this week. You can read it now by Clicking Here or going to the Red Flashing Box above.

Are you on your peas and cues, and making it absolutely positive that you are “politically correct?” It seems like you’re supposed to be conscious about anything you do or say because there’re new standards, new requirements, and new sensitivity. Or so some people are saying.  I don’t know about you, but I’m personally not worried about being so P C ed.  Live and let live I say, but don’t go overboard Stop worrying about everything you say or do. I write about the political correctness going on today in my new column now posted. Take a look and see what you think. You can read it now about going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

If you live down here the deep South, politics should be really heating up. There are major gubernatorial elections for both Louisiana and Mississippi. But so far, there does not seem to be very much interest. And I write this week about one of the reasons why. Politics just does not seem to be much fun anymore. And it should be. Read my new column and see what you think. You can read it by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

I hate to rub it into all my Louisiana  friends, but I spent the last several weeks up in the mountains of North Carolina.  It was great while lasted, but home to It was great while it lasted, but now home to get caught up on much backed up work. . Hope all you folks are making the best of real hot summer. 

Politics, both in Louisiana as well as across the country, seems to have become quite in cinerary. Constant attacks, low blows, good guy bad guy, and little cooperation between Republicans and Democrats. Is this the wave of the future? I take a look at politics from the past in Louisiana and the entire aura of Huey long. The Kingfish would be in hog heaven with the politics of today. I talk about all this my new column now posted. You can read it by Clicking Here or going to the Red Flashing Box above.

There are a lot of great podcasts on the web, particularly if you interested in sports.  One of the best happens to be produced by and stars my grandson, Eli Senor out of New York City. Eli is 11 years old, but really has a solid background in a cross section of interesting sports stories. Take a look. You will be surprised by his sports background and interesting updates.  To listen, Click Here.

Louisiana has a major affordable insurance problem. The highest insurance costs in all America. The business lobby in the state says it is the fault of the judicial system. That was blown out of the water in the recent session of the legislature. A major problem is the regulators who allow insurance companies to charge at will whatever rate they want. Did you know there’s a widow tax in Louisiana? That’s right. Widows pay 15% more. Other examples will get you very angry. Check out my new column that is posted. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

My column this week is about the complications of car insurance. Be sure and take a look. Here is a good video about the vast differences you may be charged based on a number of factors, some quite unfair. Bottom line? To save money, shop around and understand just what you are buying.

I hope all of my readers enjoyed their Memorial Day weekend. Vacationing, barbecues, hot dogs, lots of family time. But just what is the real purpose of Memorial Day? Most folks don’t even know the difference between Memorial Day and Veterans Day. Should it not be a time reflect on the future of our country, and whether or not we should make an effort to help? If you don’t join the military, what about volunteer service? I write about this in my new column now posted. You can read it by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

I wrote in my weekly column about standing up for America, and standing up for those who serve us. We take our servicemen and women for granted, thank them for their service, holler USA USA, and think that we’re being patriotic. But are we doing enough? Not just no, but hell no. Below is one of the most patriotic songs I’ve ever heard about servicemen and women who go fight for our country, but don’t get the support back home. It’s well worth taking a listen.

Congressman Steve Scalise, for good reason, is doing soul-searching over whether or not to forgive the fellow who shot him and almost killed him two years ago. Should he forgive this criminal? He’s a devout Catholic and is struggling with such a decision. It’s hard to put such an injustice behind you and forgive. What advice would you give to the Congressman? I discuss the options, and give a poignant example, in this week’s column. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

We are gearing up for a radio weekend program before we take a summer break. Lots to talk about this week. Louisiana Lieut. Gov. Billy Nungesser will join us to tell what’s going on in the Bayou State. Insurance executive Tim Temple will explain his idea for a national disaster insurance fund. And Dr. Edward Peters we’ll talk about the future of artificial intelligence and facial scanning. So a full lively program in store. Check local listings for times and stations. We will see you on the radio.

It seems night after night on the evening news, all we read about is the torrential rains then have hit all across the country, and particularly in Louisiana. You wonder if the rains are ever going to stop. And as the rains come down, the Mississippi River and its various tributaries continue to rise. What are the implications? What’s the worst that can happen? I write about this in my new column now posted. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

Another weekend radio program it Is just around the corner, with a fully packed agenda planned.  What’s all this stuff about China? Are we on the right track in raising tariffs on so many Chinese goods the end up in United States? China expert Peter Johnson will join us to discuss. And we sure do waste a lot of money. Money expert Jackie Shapiro will give us tips on many ways to save. Plus a surprise guest or two. So join us for lively program. Check local listings for times and stations. We will see you on the radio.

It used to be a Louisiana problem. But now there are serious natural disasters happening all over the country. Louisiana is still at the top of the list when it comes to having higher insurance rates. So what do we do? There is an idea that has been out there for sometime, going back 25 years. We need a national catastrophic program, where all states participate. It’s simple, will not cost any federal money, and will help dramatically to lower homeowner’s property insurance rates in Louisiana. I explain it all my new column. Check it out now about going to the Red Flashing Box above, or Clicking Here.

So much to cover in this weekend’s Common Senseradio program. Is there a rise in anti-Semitism throughout the country? We will talk to author Ellen Manes about this new phenomenon. And how about the measles outbreak taking place across America? Dr. Jane Orient joins us to give her opinion as to why it’s happening. Finally, Dr. Freda Birnbaum will talk about a special view of Mother’s Day. So join us for a lively program. Check local listings for times and stations. In Baton Rouge, it’s WJBO, 1150 AM Sunday from 10:00 am till noon, and numerous other stations all across the nation.   We will see you on the radio.

A birthday celebration with four of my favorite girls. I turned 79 on May 6th.  Movin’ on up!

The Sanford group was one of the biggest swindles in Louisiana history. Several thousand people suffered huge financial losses, some their entire life savings. There’s no certainty that they will ever get any substantial amount of their savings back. So what happened? Where were the regulators who were supposed to lookout for such shenanigans? Does the state of Louisiana have any liability? I talk about this and my new column now posted. You can read it by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

It’s almost time for the Common-Sense Radio Weekly Program.  And we really have a lively show planned for our listeners.  First and foremost, Happy Mother’s Day for mothers all over America. We will reminisce.  And what’s your favorite baseball movie? The new issue of Baseball Digest features iconic baseball movies celebrating their 30th anniversary: Editor in Chief Rick Cerrone will join us to discuss. And can a restaurant turn away a customer with a service dog?  Shannon Walker is a service dog expert and will give her views.  So join us for lively program. Check local listings for times and stations. Usually Sundays, mid-morning. We will see you on the radio.

My mother died a few years back after a full life at 93.  I  sure do miss her and I’ll talk about her on this weekend’s Common Sense Radio Show.  She was  full of life and active right up  to the day she passed away.  I’ll join so many others in remembering and wishing a Happy Mother’s Day this Sunday.

Everybody knows the Louisiana State song, You are my Sunshine. It is the best-known song all over the world. But some folks in the legislature are giving serious consideration to making a change. Some folks down in Cajun country want the new song to be Hank Williams popular diddy, Jambalaya.  What’s the history behind these songs, and is there any reason to change? I talk about it in this week’s column. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

Radio weekend is close at hand, and we’re preparing a lively Common-Sense radio show. Lots of talk from Democratic presidential candidates about Medicare for all. Is it possible or pipe dream? Dr. Alieta Eck (www.affordablehealthinc.org) will join us to discuss.  And Did you celebrate birthday last week? What’s it all about, and how serious for some of the environmental concerns. Author and climate expert Charisse Marei will give us her views.  Plus a full agenda of updated news.  So tune in for a lovely show. Check local listings for times and stations. We will see you on the radio.

It’s getting close to time for qualifications in this year’s gubernatorial election campaign. If you’re running for a major statewide office, it is almost too late to get started, unless you are a millionaire.  So what’s the story in the governor’s race? Incumbent Gov. John Bell Edwards looks to be in the driver’s seat, having $10 million in the bank, and opponents who are, at this date, not all that well known. But what about an elephant the room? Somebody that could cause the Governor real problems? I write about it in this week’s column. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

Weekend radio is close at hand, and we have a lively show planned for all our listeners. Former VP Joe Biden is about to announce for president, and we will discuss whether he is insensitive to the#MeToo movement with business coach Kelly Accetta. (www.truth.coach).  And how about the death penalty. For or against?  We will discuss with Hannah Cox, National Manager of Conservatives Concerned about the Death Penalty. (www.conservatvivesconcerned.org.) Finally, what a golfing display put on by Tiger Woods last week.  How did he recover from back surgery? We will talk with Dr. John Paul Peloza an orthopedic surgeon out of Dallas. Check local listings for times of the stations. We will see you on the radio.

Our family vacation traveled to Paris in 2004 and took us to Notre Dame. The cathedral has weathered some heavy damage over the years. In 1831, the writer Victor Hugo published his novel “The Hunchback of Notre Dame.”  Hugo wrote: “[I]t is difficult not to sigh, not to wax indignant, before the numberless degradations and mutilations which time and men have both caused the venerable monument to suffer.”  This beautiful cathedral has a long was back from the damage caused yesterday.

Just beginning is the Louisiana legislature’s bi-annual fiscal session, and election season is only months away. There are lots of goofy proposed laws thrown into the legislative hopper. Rather than dealing with some serious funding issues, there’s much talk around the capitol about alligators, almond milk, crab traps, and meatless hamburgers. Really heavy stuff to consider. The most important issue should be early childhood development and learning. Louisiana kids are less prepared for elementary school than in any other state in the nation. I discuss this problem in this week’s column. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

Common Sense radio weekend is close at hand, and we will have a full agenda to talk about. Old friend and Pastor John’s Stahl Will join us to talk about the Easter season. Why are so many young people no longer growing up in a church atmosphere? Then psychiatrist Dr. Donald Pet will give his conclusions as to why it will be women who will save the world. And did you know it’s now hot dog season? Baseball means different types of hotdogs. We will make comparisons. So join us for lively program. Check local listings for times and stations all over the nation. We will see you on the radio.

Virginia won, give them that but with a lot of question marks.  and before everyone puts the university up for sainthood consider this.  There is a big difference between a “miracle” and biased officiating. Auburn beat Virginia and the refs put their thumbs on the scale. There were a number of questionable calls that went against Texas Tech.  But the fact is-Virginia is National Champion.  So we will all wait till next year.

If you are a college basketball fan, you certainly have taken notice of all the dysfunction going on at LSU right now. After a successful season where the Tigers won the Southeastern Conference title, the coach now under suspension, and the program is in complete disarray. Just what happened, and what should be done now? I personally am a big basketball fan, and I write about this tragedy in this week’s column. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing box above, or by Clicking Here.

Guest list and show schedule to be posted Friday Morning.

I don’t know about you, but I’m a great flash mob fan. Just look at the exuberance of all these young folks from Russia, gathering on a snowy day having a really wonderful time. Obviously this took some planning, but what a wholesome thing to undertake. Horray for flash mobs.

A crane is pictured lowering a rusty remnant of the Holocaust onto tracks outside Manhattan’s Museum of Jewish Heritage.  It’s a windowless German boxcar like those used to transport men, women and children to Auschwitz and other Nazi death camps.  It’s among 700 Holocaust artifacts, most never before seen in the United States, being prepared for one of the largest exhibits ever on Auschwitz.  The exhibit “” “Auschwitz. Not long ago. Not far away” “” will be open May 8 through Jan. 3. A chilling reminder of the terrible thins that can happen even in our lifetime.

It’s election year in Louisiana, and one of the big issues will be the outrageous cost of automobile insurance. It’s the highest in America. So the politicians are running for cover. Several commissions have been appointed, and everybody is screaming what to do, what to do. It’s simple in my opinion. And I’ll explain in my new column now posted. It’s time for all these politicians from the governor, the insurance commissioner and legislators to step up the plate, and see that the current laws are enforced. Check out my new column for a full explanation. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

We are excited about our Common Sense weekend radio program soon to air.  Who could do a better pick of selecting Final four winners? Artificial intelligence through the computer, or basketball fans? We will talk about it with DJ Sebastian, who advises clients on advanced technologies. And how about the charges being dropped against actor Jesse Smollett. Many people are outraged. Julie Grant, anchor at the new Court TV, will join us to discuss.  And finally, people have been debating when End Times will start for years. But according to Bible scholar Richard Ruhling, M.D., a persuasive case can be made that they will start with this Passover and Easter season. Are you ready? We really have a lively show planned, so join us by checking your local listings for times and stations. We’ll see you on the radio.

“The Killer” himself, Jerry Lee Lewis, is a little under the weather right now. He had stroke, and will miss the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival. I already had my tickets. You may not know it, but Jerry Lee was my first client as a lawyer when I moved to Ferriday, La. some 52 years ago. I talk all about it in my new column. You can read it now by clicking on the Flashing Red Light above, or by Clicking Here.

We are getting ready for the Common-Sense radio show, and a full packed weekend. Dr.  David Young join Josh from Connecticut to talk about how local police killed his dog. A chilling story. Then did you observe the Spring equinox?  Donna Henes will tell us just what it means.  And finally, professor David Peters, a renowned scientist, will argue that religion and science are not mutually exclusive.  So quite a lively show has been lined up. Check local listings for times and stations. We will show you on the radio.

Pretty cool! The Chicago River is dyed green for St. Patrick’s Day, a city tradition since 1962. Below … How it happens, per the Chicago Tribune: “Three men [on a boat] use flour sifters to dump about 40 pounds of an environmentally friendly orange powder into the river.”  The powder … turns the water bright green when it hits.

Elections in Louisiana are just around the corner, but in some statewide races, opposition is hard to find for some incumbents.  But does any candidate find today, when all is said and done, find that they have no opposition?  It did happen in a major state wide race some 36 years ago. It was predestined, in my opinion. Take a look at my new column see what you think. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

Are you ready for weekend radio? It’s St. Patrick’s Day weekend, with much going on. A shocking new poll reveals a majority of American young people embrace socialism. What’s going on? We will talk to Dr. John Huber about this phenomenon. And some 4000 retail outlets have closed so far this year.  Is this the wave of the future? We will discuss with business strategist Mel Lisiten.  And finally, would you hire an ex-con to work your business? Mark Holden, chairman of Freedom Partners, will join us to analyze. So tune in for a lively program. Check local listings for times and stations. We will see you on the radio.

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Heavy winter rains in California have produced a “super bloom” of wildflowers around the state, including these wild poppies blanketing the hills of Walker Canyon near Lake Elsinore, Calif.

A number of states in the U.S. have been declared judicial hellholes. The complaint in most of these states is that trial judges are often influenced by campaign contributions. There’s been a recent hue and cry to appoint judges rather than elect them. That’s fine if you get to do the appointing. I write about this conflict in this week’s column. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

Radio weekend is at hand, and we have a full schedule set. Quite an accomplishment since we are all just recovering from Mardi Gras down here in the deepest of the southern states.  Should your kids play football at a very young age? Many medical professionals think they should not. Massachusetts, in fact, it is proposing a new law saying that kids cannot start playing football until they’re 12 years old.  Leigh Richardson Clinical Director of the Brain Performance Center will join us to discuss. Also, Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith will be our guest to talk about the effects of daylight savings time.  And Dr. Lee Jenkins will discuss bad mistakes good teachers make.  We will also l bring you up to date on a lot of the offbeat news, so tune in for a lively program.  Check local listings for times and stations.  We will see you on the radio.