Sean Jones
http://search.viewpoint.com/pl/imgview?ret_query=k%3Dbrown%2Bpelican%26ps%3D40%26tn%3D0%26type%3Drel38w%26color%3Dall%26size%3Dall%26opt%3Dweb&fw=500&fh=355&fs=82%20kB&fn=CA_BrownPelican40.jpg&gif=http://sk1.yt-thm-a02.yimg.com/image/6ebf81eb5354bdda&img=http://www.ejphoto.com/images_CA/CA_BrownPelican40.jpg&rc=http://www.ejphoto.com/brown_pelican_page.htm
link for image is listed above
Pelecanus occidentalis or more commonly known as the Brown Pelican is a part of Louisiana’s proud culture, even so far as to provide our state with the nickname of “the Pelican State”. The Brown Pelican, the smallest of the pelican family, is a magnificent bird that weighs up to twelve pounds and can possess a wingspan up to eight feet wide. They usually build nests in small trees or shrubs and tend to raise their young in colonies with other pelicans. The pelican’s young are usually born and raised in groups of three, and consume almost 150 pounds of fish over the duration of their nesting period, which can be from eight to ten months. Pelicans are known for their long beaks with gigantic expandable pouches, which are used to scoop fish out of the water. The brown pelican, one of the world’s seven species of pelicans, is also known specifically for being the only one of its’ kind to dive out of the air and into the water to catch its’ prey and also being the only one that is brown. Its’ natural habitat spreads from the Atlantic coast, along the coast of the Gulf of Mexico, throughout the northwestern part of South America, and even on the Pacific coast of California
The brown pelican was first associated with Louisiana upon the arrival of early European settlers who resided in Louisiana. The settlers were astounded at how nurturing and caring the pelicans were to their young while raising them. In 1902, Louisianans showed their true respect for the bird by making it a prominent part of the official state seal, and then furthered that respect in 1912 by placing it on Louisiana’s state flag. As if that was not enough to show the importance of the pelican to Louisiana, on July 27, 1966 the bird was officially adopted as the official state bird, and lastly and most recently it was placed on the Louisiana’s bicentennial quarter. All of these things combined give the brown pelican an ever-lasting place in Louisiana’s culture and history.
Unfortunately in the 1960’s DDT was introduced as a pesticide in the United States of America, completely devastating the Brown Pelican population. By 1970 the effects of DDT did its’ toll on the pelican population resulting in an instant federal government reaction of placing the brown pelican on the endangered species list. Two years later, in 1972, the pesticide known as DDT was fortunately banned from being used in the United States of America, but it had already ravaged the pelican species to such an extreme that in 1966 the brown pelican had completely disappeared from Louisiana’s costal waters. Louisiana could not due without this magnificent bird populating its’ lands and waters, so in 1968 Louisiana began the importation of the brown pelicans into the state in hopes of restoring the bird population. Fortunately in 1995 the federal government declared that the pelican population had been completely restored in Louisiana.
Friday, March 13, 2009
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Lonely Louisiana
Michael Heumann
Ms. Michel
English 2000
Ever since middle school and more prevalently through high school, my teachers have stressed the issue that ‘our’ standardized test scores as a state were poor. In earlier years, I hadn’t given much thought as to why this was relevant. If I could still make A’s and B’s on my report card, then why would a national comparison of Louisiana be of great importance? With this idea in mind, and years later of worldly experience, I have begun to notice what lower standardized test scores reflect.
I chose this picture as a representation of Louisiana primarily for two reasons. I have family that lives in different parts of the world, and all have made the remark, “The people here are just fat and dumb!” These people are family and are not (I hope) ridiculing every person as being ignorant, but rather making a generalization about the population through their own experiences. They are however, very accurate in their claims, because for years Louisiana has been at the lower end of the spectrum in terms of education and health standings. Therefore my image of Louisiana is a “lonely fat kid.”
Louisiana makes great revenue through the New Orleans port industry and the many construction, chemical, and engineering job opportunities available in the state. Even today as most of the nation struggles financially, Louisiana is relatively unaffected because of the continual circulation of currency within the state. Many people here take this lifestyle for granted, not concerning themselves with the rest of Nation’s issues, much less the world’s issues. “Laissez le bon temps roule,” meaning “let the good time roll,” is the state’s motto, and is exactly what it’s citizens plan on doing. As long as the immediate Louisiana environment doesn’t pose a threat to it’s inhabitants, there is no reason to change. Ironically, with incidents such as Katrina devastating New Orleans, most residents have the ideology that Louisiana is the victim of misfortune, and the rest of the world should cater to them.
In December 2008 Louisiana was officially ranked as the unhealthiest state in terms of obesity, infant mortality, and preventable hospitalizations. I believe the fact that the state is in the bottom five out of fifty states in education is a direct cause of health problems. Schools are so behind in establishing principles such as math, science, and English, and implementing even some health education is a big task to achieve. Many public schools are even considering letting the state take control of their funding because they are so far behind the rest of the nation’s standards. I have many friends that don’t know the difference between omega-3 fatty acids and hydrogenated oils or even the difference in performing cardio or strength exercises. They are more than capable of understanding these ideas, but were never taught. Education is certainly a crutch of Louisiana, causing exponentially growing obstacles that will only become more difficult to overcome in the future. All Louisiana needs is some friends to incorporate them back into society.
English 2000-24 Justin Babin Louisiana Purchase
Looking at the photo of the Louisiana Purchase one can notice that the purchase more than doubled the size of the United States. This photo is important to Louisiana because it illustrates how important the state of Louisiana was important to the country. The purchase was made by Thomas Jefferson and marks the time when Louisiana became a state of the United States. The photo is important to all Louisianans because it lets it’s current residents know where there state came from and how it evolved. One can better understand how the culture and heritage of Louisiana came about through the Louisiana Purchase.
To better understand the Louisiana Purchase, a brief history is provided: Louisiana was originally settled by the French in the early 18th century. The area west of the Mississippi was ceded to Spain by a secret treaty, and at the end of the Seven Years’ War, the area east of the Mississippi was lost to Great Britain. Then, by another secret treaty, it was returned to France. The current president, Jefferson, sent James Monroe to Paris to aid the American minister to France, Robert R. Livingston, in an attempt to buy New Orleans. Instead he was given all of the state of Louisiana. Louisiana was sold for $15 million. At the time of purchase, Jefferson was concerned about the constitutionality of making a land acquisition without adding a covering amendment to the U.S. Constitution. The law of the land, however, did give the president treaty-making power, and the Louisiana Purchase was ratified into law as a treaty by the U.S. Senate. The Louisiana Purchase stands as the largest area of territory ever added to the U.S. at one time (history.com/louisianapurchase).
Considering the history provided above along with the picture of the Louisiana Purchase, one can realize the importance this picture has to the people of Louisiana. The picture clearly illustrates the vast amount of area the Louisiana Purchase gave to the United States. Not only was the Purchase important to the state of Louisiana, but it was important in the expansion of the United States. I picked the picture of the Louisiana Purchase because it is what Louisiana is most known for well appreciated throughout the entire United States and not just to the state of Louisiana.
Tasty Little Mudbugs by Abraham Felix
You are sweating profusely. Your lips are burning. Your tongue is on fire. Your chest and stomach are inflamed. The carbonation in the drink you keep swigging from is only making it worse, but you don’t care. You just grab another one and begin to unclothe it in your haste to that incredible little piece of meat inside. Though this probably sounds like some sort of adult activity, even the youngest Louisianan has probably had this experience. I’m of course talking about the great Louisianian tradition of crawfish boils.
When great cooking comes to mind, in my opinion, Louisiana is the best in the world, or at least in the south. There is a magic to cooking here in Louisiana that can make even crawfish, the dirtiest little critters, or mudbugs if you will, taste like a little piece of heaven. Not only did some genius long ago discover that boiling crawfish in herbs, spices and seasonings would make them delectable, but then he or she decided that was not enough. In addition to the crawfish, someone added things like corn and potatoes and sausage. Even recently I heard of people putting things like mushrooms, lemon, garlic and even cauliflower in that pot along with all the other things.
Now no decent Louisiana native can stand to prepare and eat something like this alone. He or she will probably call up a friend or ten and throw a good ol’ get-together and pig out. At least that’s how I like to think the great event called a crawfish boil started.
Of course, recently Louisiana was renamed the unhealthiest state, taking that honor from Mississippi. I say I’m glad to have that title back. People say the things that taste good are the worse for you. To me this means if you want to eat something that tastes great, like all our food here, you’ve got to accept the bad health that can result from it. People say southern hospitality is second to none. With crawfish boils, that definitely rings true. Events like crawfish boils show the strong community ties of Louisiana and the neighboring states.
In addition to the community ties of the mudbug, they also represent a multi-million dollar industry for our state. Most of the crawfish worldwide is harvested in Louisiana. So while many people around the country may knock us for our school systems, infrastructure, generally bad health and otherwise, they certainly can’t knock us for our food and ability to live and “Laissez les bon temps roule.”
Louisiana in a Visual Age
The picture I posted is a picture of Camp Abbey. Camp Abbey was a Catholic camp for children from the ages eight to thirteen. It was a camp that you could attend to paint pictures or other arts and crafts. Someone could also take a hike in the woods or to the St. Joseph’s Abbey Cathedral. Children could swim and play sports with friends, and make bonds that last a lifetime. At night there were many celebrations that contained campfires, songs, and laughter. There are many reasons why I chose this picture. Camp Abbey holds a special place in my heart. I attended the camp as a camper until I was thirteen and then as a counselor until I was 18. I have made friendships that will last forever.
In my opinion, Camp Abbey reminds me of Louisiana because for decades it was a place for people to grow and mature. Not only did the counselors and administration at camp teach you about life situations and problems, they also taught someone about their faith and how to grow in that aspect of life. My mother attended Camp Abbey over thirty years ago. She told me stories for years about the friends she made and the experiences she gained from attending Camp Abbey. When I turned eight, there was nothing I wanted more than to attend camp. After my first summer, I fell in love and did not want to leave. They taught me so much my first year; I could not help but want to go back and spend more weeks of my summer in Folsom, Louisiana.
Camp Abbey represents Louisiana because, like other treasures of Louisiana, were destroyed by Hurricane Katrina. There were so many places lost by Katrina that it affected not only Louisiana, but many surrounding areas. Many trees were destroyed, as well as trials, and some buildings. With many repairs and help from people around the state of Louisiana, Camp Abbey was able to try to recover. A year past Hurricane Katrina, Camp Abbey bounced back. They recovered and set up camp for one last. Even though it is now closed due to other reasons, Camp Abbey will always hold a special place in my heart along with many other fellow Louisianans. In my opinion, it is a shame that some children today will not be able to experience all that I learned and gained from the Camp Abbey life.
When I Think of Louisiana
Ashley Bellerino
Ms. Michel
English 2000- Section 24
9 March 2009
When I Think of Louisiana
This picture was taken when I was in the French Quarter one day with my family. I live in New Orleans so, naturally, I usually think of something involving this city when I am trying to represent Louisiana. My father took the picture and enhanced certain aspects of it, making it look like the type of picture they sell in boutiques around town. This woman was playing her keyboard and singing a song for some spare change from onlookers. These types of people are quite common when one is walking through the quarter. She was playing right in front of the Praline shop, which is a memorable location for the area. Behind her are different little shops that visitors cannot get enough of; they sell souvenirs ranging from fleur de leis ornaments to risky shirts covered in profanities. Some people might view these performers as nuisances, but others might see them as just one of the many cultural aspects of New Orleans. As tourists walk around, they will see many people trying to make a living off of public entertainment. Some natives will be standing as statues and painted silver, while others might be putting on a dance routine in Jackson Square.
My friends and I will go downtown acting like tourists, visiting the St. Louis
Cathedral, taking a carriage ride, and getting beignets at Café Du Monde. Another unique characteristic of New Orleans that one cannot find anywhere else is the Riverwalk. This includes the mall with the aquarium and the I-Max Theater connected to it. My family and I like to go see a movie and then go walk along the river to watch the riverboats pass by. It is interesting to think how one woman playing her keyboard can make someone nostalgic of the memories and aspects of his/her city. Another example of how one thing can cause many different recollections is food.
Food is one of the strongest characteristics that brings in travelers and gives the city it’s unique background. One visit to New Orleans would not be enough time to eat at all the historic places that are so popular.
I will never forget the lady I saw on the street that day because she contributes to the individuality that our city will always be famous for. She is trying to make an honest living while also spreading her talent of music in order to touch those passing by, even if it is in the slightest way. I may not always give money to the people trying to make a living on the main streets, but I will always respect their efforts to amuse the bystanders, whether they be tourists from all over or the locals of New Orleans.
Friends, Family and Food
When I think of Louisiana many things come to mind, such as Mardi Gras, LSU football games, hurricanes, and other things. However, what stands out the most to me is friends, family and food. Louisiana is known for its hospitality and good food; you can ask someone who has visited Louisiana before and they will tell you so. If there are any bad experiences, they are found in Death Valley, which is a different situation entirely. Therefore, to me, friends, family and food are a good representation of my home state.
Louisiana natives have a reputation for the seasonings and spices in their food, but those aren’t the only elements. Mexicans, Indians and Asians have spices in their foods as well, but in Louisiana our spices are entirely unique. Take for instance a jambalaya, filled with white onions, green onions, broth, rice, lea and perrins sauce, lots of meat, and the most important ingredient: our beloved Tony Chachere’s. Whether it’s sweet, salty, rich or spicy what we Louisianans bring to the table is always full of flavor. Something sweet would be pralines, which are a type of cookie similar to fudge, but with brown sugar, vanilla and pecans. Salty is represented well by boiled crawfish with some corn on the cob, potatoes, mushrooms, and onions boiled in with them. For richness, seafood augratin is a good example. It is a white creamy sauce mixed with seafood such as crab, crawfish or shrimp, and cheese on top. As for spicy, boudin characterizes this flavor. It is similar to link sausage, but made of rice, pork sausage, spices and seasoning, all inside of a pork casing. These foods are just a few of the many that Louisiana natives have cooked and loved for years; earning our state the reputation for having the best food in the nation.
Another thing that I think of when I think of Louisiana is friends and family. Louisiana is one of the most hospitable states in the U.S. When someone from out of state comes to visit or moves here, they are taken in and become like family. I believe this is because here in Louisiana we value friends and family, and we don’t like to leave anybody out. Every holiday or event that takes place here involves friends and family getting together to celebrate. Even after sad and serious events such as a funeral, friends and family usually go somewhere afterwards to fellowship and enjoy each others company. There’s nothing like spending the holidays with Cajuns.
Louisiana can be represented by a number of things, but to me the best representations of its character are friends, family and food. Also, when Louisianans get together, no matter the occasion, there’s always food involved. There is a bonding that takes place when we eat good food together, so the two go hand in hand. I believe that anyone who comes to our state whether to visit or reside, will get a good dose of this and see for him or herself. We got the reputation for good food and hospitality because we earned it; and I believe we show ourselves worthy.
By: Alicia Knight
Sportsman's paradise
Louisiana can be portrayed in many different ways. It is a place rich with culture and experiences that sometimes are unique only to where we call home. This is the result of the melting pot of the many different peoples that have migrated here from all over the world, the terrain of the land, and the fact that there is still so much untouched land in Louisiana that we call home. The human world, of course, controls Louisiana just like the rest of the world, but there is one part of Louisiana that we can’t have complete dominion over…the wildlife. This abundance of wildlife is one thing that makes Louisiana so unique to me.
Louisiana is called the sportsman’s paradise for good reason. There are countless places all over our state where seeing half a dozen dear running through a field, a flurry of quail jumping up to take flight, squirrels cutting in the trees, and perch hitting bugs at the water’s surface. Unlike so many places in America Louisiana has developed a way to live in harmony with the local wildlife and actually make the wildlife part of their culture. Our state practices excellent wildlife management to the extent that virtually anyone can step into their backyard to go bird watching, down to the river’s edge to catch a load of smallmouth bass, or into the woods in search of bagging their most sought after game animals.
I have grown up having a special love for our sportsman’s paradise. Some of my earliest memories of my childhood were of me sitting at a camp with my dad all my cousins talking about the wildlife that we saw while in the woods that day. I remember days where me and four cousins would go seining and return to the docks at dusk with over twelve hundred pounds of fish. I’ve spent countless days in a deer stand. Some days I was actually hunting others I was there just to see the wildlife and take in the whole experience. I have too many great experiences involving Louisiana’s wildlife to even begin to recall them all in one day.
I have lived in Louisiana for the majority of my life, and have had the chance to experience a part of Louisiana culture that has become so ingrained in my life that I don’t know what life would be without it. It is a part of Louisiana that I can never forget, and just as my father did, I hope to introduce my children to our sportsman’s paradise.
By: Josh Dear
Clarity of Music in Louisiana
Michael Guinta
Louisiana has a very diverse culture. Down here in the South the locals enjoy good food, good people, and good music. To represent clarity in Louisiana, I took a picture of a guitar’s sound hole and strings. The guitar belongs to a Louisiana born and raised LSU student. This guitar represents clarity of sound and the music that is very much a part Louisiana.
Music is more than just something people listen to in Louisiana; it is part of a lifestyle. Louisiana locals will use music as an excuse to get together with close friends or people they hardly know to listen to their favorite bands. Big events such as the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Fest and Voodoo Fest are massive gatherings in New Orleans spanning several days of pure music. People will stick around at these shows all day to see different bands and enjoy only the best food and company. Voodoo fest lasts three days around Halloween weekend and attracts an edgier rock oriented crowd. The New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival lasts several weekends and plays Jazz, Rock, and many other genres of music.
Many other venues have been popular in Louisiana for local bands or popular artists. The Varsity in Baton Rouge has brought back many local artists that have “made it big.” Great examples include “Better than Ezra” and the “Chee Weez”. The River Center in Baton Rouge has also been a popular venue for popular and local musicians. Located in Downtown Baton Rouge on the Mississippi River, the River Center is soon to hold the Bayou Blues Festival and host the Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra. The Superdome in New Orleans and the New Orleans Arena have been popular choices for concerts for several years. Britney Spears, from Kentwood, Louisiana, decided to make her comeback after many years out of the music business at the New Orleans Arena. Rapper Dwayne Michael Carter Jr. from New Orleans recently received four Grammy awards including best rap song and best rap album.
New Orleans is known for being the home of Jazz. Most of what Jazz is today was developed in the heart of New Orleans dating back to the early 1900s. Dixieland and funk music genres have also been very popular in the past in Louisiana. Mardi Gras is a very exciting gathering for locals and visitors to experience Louisiana culture at its best. Marching bands such as the St. Augustine Marching band can represent a music culture only found in Louisiana. Many high schools form all over the country come to march in Mardi Gras parades to represent their schools and give the parade-goers a good show.
Music has become a part of Louisiana’s soul. Clarity of sound gives the people here a sense of community that not many other states in America can offer. Whether one enjoys Jazz, Rock, Rap or several other genres one can find something to listen to in Louisiana. Locals and tourists alike can achieve clarity of mind through the sounds of the friendly, culturally diverse, music atmosphere that can only be found in Louisiana.
In the past, Louisiana has been referred to as a “Sportsman’s Paradise.” This name includes hunting, fishing, camping, and anything else that Louisiana has to offer in the outdoor department. I think this picture describes Louisiana because it shows a small part of why the name Sportsman’s Paradise was given. Throughout the state there are many bodies of water on which thousands of people go fishing, boating, crabbing, crawfishing etc. each year. It is typical throughout the state, when riding in a boat or down a road beside a body of water, to see a swamp: cypress trees with moss hanging from the limbs, still or slow moving water, and an egret or two fishing for a meal. If you look closely enough, you will usually come across a bed of cypress knees and quite a few lily pads. This area is home to not only many types of birds, fish, reptiles, and bugs, but also to the avid Louisiana fishermen.
Just beyond the waters of the swamp, Louisiana is known for its hunting land. Close to the water but somewhat on land, Louisianians hunt for duck, deer, and alligator. It is also not uncommon to find a large strip of camps along a body of water where the hunters and fishermen stay in between recreation. Scenes like the one in this photograph are found as pictures, paintings, and postcards throughout the state. When you stop at a rest stop as you are passing through Louisiana, you can pick up any number of postcards or pamphlets describing recreation and heritage of the state and there will usually be a photograph similar to this one printed on the front.
I find that this picture describes Louisiana because it is an example of the areas we are the most known for. The theme of “sportsman’s paradise” was so influential that it was previously found on every license plate issued in the state. Louisiana is well known for its offerings of serene scenery during a sunset and its family oriented recreation of hunting and fishing. Here, it is something that brings generations of families together to do something that not only puts food on the table, but a brings a sense of unity to the family. As a child, I can remember going out on the boat with my mom and dad and fishing until the sun went down. There were also many occasions where my dad and I went hunting together. My dad always made sure to make it a learning experience as well as an enjoyable one. I think that at one point or another everyone from Louisiana should get a taste of what our sportsman’s paradise is really all about. In these trips with my family and others I have met many new people and learned what to do in times of crisis. At least I won’t starve to death during the recession… due to my Louisiana heritage.
My Representation of Louisiana
Allen, Alton
I believe the picture that I selected accurately represents Louisiana because it focuses on what makes our state so distinguished. As a member of this exclusive society, we take pride in our southern culture and way of life. Our great state is known for its rich agriculture and its down- home feel of simplicity, but it is perhaps best- known for its cuisine. The picture that I selected emphasizes this point by portraying what our beautiful state is known for the most—our seafood.
Supplying 90% of the world’s crawfish alone, (Wikipedia.com) Louisiana has become the cornerstone of the 3 billion dollar seafood industry. People from all over travel hundreds sometimes thousands of miles just to be able to brag to their friends that they have tasted authentic Louisiana cuisines such as crawfish etouffee and seafood gumbo. All who have savored the tastes of such delectable dishes must also confess that there is nothing else like it. Unlike other states, our food plays a substantially large role in our culture. When one thinks of Louisiana, he or she immediately thinks of our signature foods.
Louisiana’s multifarious heritage gives rise to our creative and colorful cuisine. From the African roots of gumbo to the Italian roots of shrimp fettuccini, the foods descend from a number of origins outside of that of Louisiana or America, itself, for that matter. The reason our culture is so strong and has grown so successfully today is because within it we pay homage to many other cultures. This method of preservation correlates to our famed southern hospitality, which this state is also known for.
Some states have elaborate amusement parks. Other states even have historical landmarks. Louisiana, however, does not need such need such gimmicks; to reel in revenue, we attract tourists by the thousands just from our food alone. Our state being directly above the heart of the Gulf of Mexico makes us the prime location for the source of America’s seafood.
It does not take much to convince someone who knows little to nothing about Louisiana that we are the undisputed seafood capital of the world. The media alone makes this perfectly clear. For example, commercials such as that of Zaterain’s jambalaya mix containing a New Orleans big band setting and even the fact that there is a Louisiana brand hot sauce lets others know that Louisiana is a state primarily known for its distinctive and delicious delicacies.
Our state is one that is firmly grounded in its culture, and our signature foods are a part of that culture. Our dishes, most notably our seafood, are truly one of a kind. These particular foods attract the taste buds of curious tourists and avid Louisiana citizens alike. Our seafood is and always will be the centerpiece of Louisiana culture. This state has grown to become synonymous with this facet of eatery and will forever be grateful for such an honor. Time has shown that Louisiana cuisine has superseded the outskirts of our own culture and has now become an inductee of popular American culture.
The Place I Call Home
Louisiana is the place I call home; the place my heart will always call home. When I think of my home my mind goes to the Old Town Soda Shop in my hometown of Slidell, Louisiana. My mind goes to that place where I am sitting at a wrought iron table among a group of friends laughing and smiling, just enjoying the company of good friends in an atmosphere where times seems to just move a little bit slower and there is no rush for anything. My friends and I spent hours and hours in the Soda Shop on Fridays during high school, just hanging out and getting a break from the monotony of the everyday routine; that is until Hurricane Katrina. Slidell is located on Lake Ponchartrain, leaving the Old Town Soda Shop only a few miles from the lake. Hurricane Katrina left a major portion of Slidell devastated and completely flooded the Soda Shop. The owners made the hard choice to not reopen its doors. So a landmark of my past, a place that houses many cherished memories, will not be known to future generations.
Louisiana as a whole has this sense of small town feel, just the same as the Old Town Soda Shop. Visitors, no matter where they are from, are made to feel like they are a part of the culture that is Louisiana. They are welcomed with open arms into whatever is taking place, whether it is Mardi Gras, a crawfish boil, or just sitting around in a local “hole in the wall” restaurant visiting with friends and family. My picture represents that aspect of Louisiana that epitomizes southern hospitality and gives Louisiana that warm friendly feel.
There is another aspect of Louisiana my picture represents, while Louisiana’s location on the Gulf of Mexico in part makes it the “sportsman’s paradise” and makes Louisiana culturally rich it also leaves Louisiana vulnerable to Mother Nature, in the form of hurricanes. Part of calling Louisiana home involves having to pick up the pieces after a hurricane hits. Hurricanes are devastating because they not only cause physical damage but they also can take away places that are a part of Louisiana’s culture and they cannot always be brought back. After a hurricane hits and the flood waters are subsided it is up to us to clean up the pieces and put them together as best we can, but sometimes the pieces cannot be put back together and fixed and we lose local wonders like the Old Town Soda Shop. When it comes that we lose local wonders we should keep their memory alive by oral tradition and making sure future generations know the history of the place we call home. We should let future generations know about the places of in our history so the great local places of Louisiana are not forgotten.
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Louisiana Superdome
Frank Rabito
The Louisiana Superdome represents
In 2005, the Superdome served as a shelter during Hurricane Katrina where it gained international attention. After the hurricane passed, the stadium was surrounded by flood waters with helpless citizens trapped inside with no power. It was a very trying and emotional time for all of those trapped inside. After the aftermath of the storm, the Superdome was renovated. It cost $193 million to refurbish. The Saints played the 2006 season in the dome. One of the most memorable moments in franchise and New Orleans history came when the dome reopened on
The LSU football team won two National Championships in the Superdome in 2003 and 2007. Parades of people made the short walk to
The Superdome really is a true symbol to
Writing in A Visual Age - Matt Madere
Louisiana is represented by many different features. Louisiana is expressed as being unique and different from all other states. Louisiana is a state locating in the southwest region of the United States. It is home to many cultures, especially Creoles and Cajuns which are dominant in the southern part of the state. Baton Rouge is Louisiana’s largest city, and New Orleans is its largest and most popular. Louisiana distinguishes itself from other states in many ways. Religion is a main distinction due to the high proportion and influence of Catholicism, especially in southern states. For example, about 80% of the population in Louisiana is Christian, and about 30% is Roman Catholic. Louisiana is also the only state divided into parishes, similar to counties in all other states. This is another key distinction. Louisiana is very unique in its economy as well. Its food products include crawfish and seafood. Louisiana is the biggest crawfish producer in the world, supplying about 90% of the total amount. Some key aspects of the economy involve transportation and tourism. The Port of South Louisiana is the largest shipping port in the Western Hemisphere, and it is in the top ten in the world. It is also the largest bulk cargo port in the world. The Port of South Louisiana is located on the Mississippi River between New Orleans and Baton Rouge. Tourism is a major industry employing over 87,000 workers in Louisiana and earns Louisiana an estimated $5.2 billion each year. New Orleans is the center for tourism in Louisiana. Major tourist attractions include the New Orleans French Quarter, jazz, unique food, fishing, hunting, Mardi Gras and many other festivals, and boating and cruising. Cruise ships dock in New Orleans at the Mississippi River; streetcars run through the city. New Orleans is one of the top ten most visited cities in the United States, and is world-famous for its unique architectural styles that reflect its historical roots and multicultural heritage. From the French Quarter, Bourbon Street attracts tons of tourists with its infamous nightlife. Bourbon Street is comprised of restaurants, hotels, bars, and nightclubs, making it quite the place to be for a crazy weekend. The French Market can also be found in the French Quarter. This is the place that tourists go to get the pleasure of experiencing beignets at Café du Monde. Those beignets are New Orleans treats. These are all features that represent Louisiana and how unique of a place it truly is.
Louisiana in a Visual Age - Matt Madere
Louisiana is represented by many different features. Louisiana is expressed as being unique and different from all other states. Louisiana is a state locating in the southwest region of the United States. It is home to many cultures, especially Creoles and Cajuns which are dominant in the southern part of the state. Baton Rouge is Louisiana’s largest city, and New Orleans is its largest and most popular. Louisiana distinguishes itself from other states in many ways. Religion is a main distinction due to the high proportion and influence of Catholicism, especially in southern states. For example, about 80% of the population in Louisiana is Christian, and about 30% is Roman Catholic. Louisiana is also the only state divided into parishes, similar to counties in all other states. This is another key distinction. Louisiana is very unique in its economy as well. Its food products include crawfish and seafood. Louisiana is the biggest crawfish producer in the world, supplying about 90% of the total amount. Some key aspects of the economy involve transportation and tourism. The Port of South Louisiana is the largest shipping port in the Western Hemisphere, and it is in the top ten in the world. It is also the largest bulk cargo port in the world. The Port of South Louisiana is located on the Mississippi River between New Orleans and Baton Rouge. Tourism is a major industry employing over 87,000 workers in Louisiana and earns Louisiana an estimated $5.2 billion each year. New Orleans is the center for tourism in Louisiana. Major tourist attractions include the New Orleans French Quarter, jazz, unique food, fishing, hunting, Mardi Gras and many other festivals, and boating and cruising. Cruise ships dock in New Orleans at the Mississippi River; streetcars run through the city. New Orleans is one of the top ten most visited cities in the United States, and is world-famous for its unique architectural styles that reflect its historical roots and multicultural heritage. From the French Quarter, Bourbon Street attracts tons of tourists with its infamous nightlife. Bourbon Street is comprised of restaurants, hotels, bars, and nightclubs, making it quite the place to be for a crazy weekend. The French Market can also be found in the French Quarter. This is the place that tourists go to get the pleasure of experiencing beignets at Café du Monde. Those beignets are New Orleans treats. These are all features that represent Louisiana and how unique of a place it truly is.
Crawfish Feast
What better way to describe Louisiana than to talk about boiling crawfish? Louisiana is well known throughout the United States for its famous Cajun cuisine. Hosting a crawfish boil has been a great tradition of our state for many years, and it continues today. For my 20th birthday, my older brother was going to teach me how to boil crawfish for the first time. Since boiling crawfish is not just an occasion for two people, I invited my friends and the rest of my family to join us.Boiling a large quantity of crawfish require a lot of physical material. As shown in the picture above, you will need a long table and chairs for people to sit in. If you don’t have enough seats, some people will have to stand like my friends on the left of the photo. It is very common to cover the table with old newspapers in order to soak up the juices from the crawfish; this is part of the reason why Louisiana residents do not throw away their papers after reading them. In the center underneath the first batch of crawfish, there are several plastic trays. These trays hold a large amount of the juice and also can be used to distribute the crawfish. The trays located behind me on the counter contain the ingredients for second batch of crawfish.
It is clear to see that when you boil crawfish, you do not just boil crawfish. You need to add seasonings (all of which I will not reveal); the one necessity is Zatarain’s Crawfish Boil mix. Each batch has various vegetables and meats that are included to add flavor and consume flavor. The flavor adding items are lemons, celery, onions, and garlic. While some people eat the celery and garlic, the items that consume most of the flavor are the red potatoes. Other well seasoned foods include corn on a cob, small mushrooms, hot dogs, and sausages. It is good to have butter handy when serving crawfish with corn and potatoes, preferably squeeze butter as we used. This makes it easier to apply when your hands are full of messy crawfish. On the right side of the photograph, someone is holding an aluminum can that has no label. The can is either green beans or asparagus; we kept these two in hole-punched cans so they would not get mashed up by the larger substances in the pot while boiling. All this scrumptious and spicy food needs something to washed it down. The beverage of choice for the adults is usually beer. Younger eaters and adults who do not drink beer often decide between water and coke.
Crawfish boils like this are a great custom that is tied with Louisiana’s culture. This is a popular social event which brings friends and families together, whether it takes place while tailgating for a sporting event or at a friend/family member’s house. Everyone gathers to spend a day with one another and enjoy a feast of succulent crawfish.
Sweet Home Louisiana
By Aimee' Coleman
When first viewing this picture, my initial reaction would be New Orleans, Louisiana. This picture represents Louisiana because of the attire, drinking, number of people in the background, the beads, and the festive lights. The attire represents Louisiana because when people see purple, gold, and green they think of Louisiana because this is where Mardi Gras is annually held. Lent is the annual pre-Lenten Carnival that is celebrated around the world and ends with a grand finale called Mardi Gras. The purple represents justice, the green represents faith, and the gold represents power. New Orleans hosts the largest Mardi Gras in America, and in 2006, despite its struggle to recover from Hurricane Katrina, which hit in September 2005, the city held strong to this tradition. Literally, Mardi Gras means "Fat Tuesday," the day before the season of Lent begins. For centuries people around the globe participate in these traditions and holidays.
Louisiana is not known particularly for drinking, however New Orleans is known for binge drinking. Alison Motluk, a journalist from New Orleans, writes: People who go on drinking binges are at the greatest risk of killing off brain cells. They tend to knock back half a dozen or more drinks in succession after long periods of abstinence. About 40 per cent of college students and many elderly alcoholics drink this way. There are several colleges in New Orleans as well as in the surrounding towns including Louisiana State University. Since the girls in the photograph are holding multiple alcoholic beverages, one would think that binge drinking would not be out of the question.
New Orleans is also known for the number of people that crowd the streets every night, pushing and shoving their way to the next bar. Having experienced New Orleans during many parades and holidays, including Mardi Gras, I have been on multiple occasions when someone cannot even raise hands over shoulders or turn in a complete circle. So many people journey to this place for the vivacious atmosphere and crowds, the town becomes “clogged” from street to street of people shoulder to shoulder.
Beads are handed and tossed out on the streets of Louisiana all through the week of Mardi Gras festivals. Thrown beads in the 1960s were Czechoslovakian glass beads. However, due to rising costs and the probability of injury, glass beads were replaced with plastic beads around 1970. Glass beads are considered authentic beads and can be purchased at many New Orleans tourist shops, as well as boutiques. There are two kinds of beads. MOT beads and hand-strung beads are as unique and different as their names. MOT beads are molded on thread. Hand strung beads are, beads that are strung on the thread by hand. Even though both are thrown, the MOT beads are the most common. Thus acquiring the nickname "thrown beads." This too would be a strong inclination of some place in Louisiana.
Lastly, the festive lights are all over New Orleans, lighting up the night streets. The neon signs in the background hint at the idea of a big, city. In conclusion, all of these come together collaboratively to show how the picture represents Louisiana.
When first viewing this picture, my initial reaction would be New Orleans, Louisiana. This picture represents Louisiana because of the attire, drinking, number of people in the background, the beads, and the festive lights. The attire represents Louisiana because when people see purple, gold, and green they think of Louisiana because this is where Mardi Gras is annually held. Lent is the annual pre-Lenten Carnival that is celebrated around the world and ends with a grand finale called Mardi Gras. The purple represents justice, the green represents faith, and the gold represents power. New Orleans hosts the largest Mardi Gras in America, and in 2006, despite its struggle to recover from Hurricane Katrina, which hit in September 2005, the city held strong to this tradition. Literally, Mardi Gras means "Fat Tuesday," the day before the season of Lent begins. For centuries people around the globe participate in these traditions and holidays.
Louisiana is not known particularly for drinking, however New Orleans is known for binge drinking. Alison Motluk, a journalist from New Orleans, writes: People who go on drinking binges are at the greatest risk of killing off brain cells. They tend to knock back half a dozen or more drinks in succession after long periods of abstinence. About 40 per cent of college students and many elderly alcoholics drink this way. There are several colleges in New Orleans as well as in the surrounding towns including Louisiana State University. Since the girls in the photograph are holding multiple alcoholic beverages, one would think that binge drinking would not be out of the question.
New Orleans is also known for the number of people that crowd the streets every night, pushing and shoving their way to the next bar. Having experienced New Orleans during many parades and holidays, including Mardi Gras, I have been on multiple occasions when someone cannot even raise hands over shoulders or turn in a complete circle. So many people journey to this place for the vivacious atmosphere and crowds, the town becomes “clogged” from street to street of people shoulder to shoulder.
Beads are handed and tossed out on the streets of Louisiana all through the week of Mardi Gras festivals. Thrown beads in the 1960s were Czechoslovakian glass beads. However, due to rising costs and the probability of injury, glass beads were replaced with plastic beads around 1970. Glass beads are considered authentic beads and can be purchased at many New Orleans tourist shops, as well as boutiques. There are two kinds of beads. MOT beads and hand-strung beads are as unique and different as their names. MOT beads are molded on thread. Hand strung beads are, beads that are strung on the thread by hand. Even though both are thrown, the MOT beads are the most common. Thus acquiring the nickname "thrown beads." This too would be a strong inclination of some place in Louisiana.
Lastly, the festive lights are all over New Orleans, lighting up the night streets. The neon signs in the background hint at the idea of a big, city. In conclusion, all of these come together collaboratively to show how the picture represents Louisiana.
Bayou Bijou
By: Dominique Mitchell
When people think of Louisiana and the southern United States in general, time and again they think of bodies of water. One that often comes to mind is a bayou. A bayou is a sluggish stream that meanders through lowlands, marshes, or plantation grounds. The word was first used by the English in Louisiana and is thought to originate from the Choctaw word bayuk, which means "small stream." Because of its critical role in blockbusters such as The Skeleton Key and The Reaping, people are fascinated with the subject of Louisiana’s bayous. I believe that the bayou represents Louisiana, because it contains much of the wildlife and aspects of Louisiana’s culture. Louisiana contains several of these bodies of water and the one featured in the picture is the New Orleans Bayou.
A bayou is frequently depicted as a dark and scary place surrounded by trees and run down little shacks that can only be reached by pirogue. As people who live in Louisiana know, this is not the case. As the sun hits the water in the picture the scene looks calm and picturesque. It could almost make you want to dive right into the water, but that would be dangerous. It could be a risk because beneath the murky waters lie some of Louisiana’s native creatures. An example would be the alligator which is the state reptile. Many bayous are home to less dangerous species. Crawfish and shrimp live and thrive in the muddy waters. These crustaceans are often representative of the state because crawfish and shrimp boils are a staple in Louisiana. Louisiana produces 90 percent of the crawfish in the world and consumes 70 percent locally. Besides fishing bayous have had other more spiritual uses. Back in the days when churches did not have baptismals they baptized people in whatever water they were near. For Louisiana the only water near by was often the bayou. In order to make use of nearby water southerners had to have men stand watch for alligators as the process took place.
Surrounding the bayou in the picture you can see Cyprus trees hung heavily with Spanish moss. The Bald Cypress is one of the few trees that will harbor Spanish moss. The Bald Cyprus tree has been the official state tree since 1963. They grow well in water and their water resistant wood is often highly prized for wood carvings. The moss of the trees holds a little bit of history for a number of people and families. My great-grandmother tells the story of how the slaves took the moss down from the trees, washed it in the river, let it dry and used it to stuff mattresses.
People often seek out bayous for their natural beauty or to fish, crab, or hunt in peace. After all where is the loneliest bayou in the world? Bayouself.
Louisiana Visual Image-Clark Brien
Louisiana’s culture lives by the phrase, “Laissez les bons rouler”. This phrase translates into let the good times roll. Bourbon Street is notorious for being the state party central, and also the one of the main tourist attractions for New Orleans. Louisiana has a laid back attitude, where even in hard times you can find people still having fun and looking for more chances to continue the fun times. Bourbon Street is a cornerstone in New Orleans’ culture, and in turn, Louisiana culture. I chose a picture of the corner of Bourbon Street and Toulouse Street to show symbolism in Louisiana’s culture.
This picture symbolizes feelings and vibes of most Louisiana natives because Bourbon Street is a big part of our culture. Further, this street represents the attitude of Louisiana and its people. Bourbon street is a dynamic street with different people and multiple attractions. For example, people of all ages blend together to enjoy their time on the street and make memories. We are a society that likes to party and have festivals, more commonly known as holidays to Louisiana natives, that we have permitted time off of school and work, which is not a popular task in other parts of the country. Bourbon Street resides in the French Quarter which is a blend of different shops, restaurants and clubs. While relaxing during day, it is quite festive at night. Contrary to common belief, the French Quarter offers a religious aspect as well. The St. Louis Cathedral lies in the French Quarter along with other religious landmarks as well as historical landmarks. Louisiana has a variety of different cultures which welcomes people of all types to fascinate themselves with at least one aspect of this great state. The different beliefs and traditions of the people in Louisiana create a melting pot of dynamic culture.
Louisiana has experienced several hard times with the hurricanes and other natural disasters, but even when our state struggled, people of all different walks of life gathered together and put our state back together one piece at a time. The fact that even after being devastated by Hurricane Katrina, we still had Mardi Gras proves the unity and determination of the people of Louisiana. It was the lights, drinking and festivities that bourbon street offered as our gleam of hope in what was a dark moment for our state. Bourbon Street is a part of Louisiana culture that shows that even though things may be bleak, there is a place for people of all different cultures and beliefs that we can bond and party together.
Mardi Gras Luxury
Katelyn Roche
ENGL 2000
This picture represents Louisiana because it is so full of life. It includes so much that can describe Louisiana. Streets of downtown in New Orleans, Mardi Gras, the French Quarter, costumes, masks, beads, drinking, and crowded streets all symbolize the culture and livelihood of this wonderful southern state. You can tell by just looking at this picture that they are in New Orleans. I think New Orleans is a huge part of describing Louisiana; it is filled with people, food, culture, and fun. New Orleans is a place that allows people to be free and do whatever they want. They have not a care in the world; they just want to have fun. Many people go to New Orleans to get away from their hectic work lives and be a kid again. They can start drinking as soon as the sun comes out, starting off with mimosas or even bloody mary’s. The French Quarter is filled with so much culture that can be captured in this picture mostly by Mardi Gras. Crowded streets filled with people, alcohol, colors and beads have been going on for decades. In the background, you can see the unique architectural buildings with the balconies, ironed gate, and stacked up apartments. You can see the balconies are filled with people throwing beads. You can see the clubs in the background that bring out those crazy nights of Bourbon Street. This picture shows multiple people in costumes dressing up for Mardi Gras. The guy and girl in the front are dressed with bright pinks, oranges, yellows, purples, and greens. They’re wearing masks, feathers, boas, and beads showing the culture of the holiday. The man to the left of the bright couple is celebrating by dressing up in a doctor costume. He is wearing a blue lab coat and a stethoscope around his head. These costumes represent Louisiana by allowing people to be whoever they want to be in the streets of downtown New Orleans. The streets are filled with people drinking and beads on everyone’s neck. You can see in the background, people waving their hand and yelling to those who are on the balcony for beads those best beads on Bourbon. The man in the bottom left corner of the picture is holding the well-known alcoholic drink, “hand grenades”, while being swallowed by beads. The flag’s in the background have the infamous colors of purple, green, and gold showing the history of Mardi Gras. The purple stands for justice, green represents faith, and gold symbolizes power. Looking at the people filling up this picture, you can tell everyone is having fun with smiles and laughter on their faces. Mardi Gras is Louisiana’s most vibrant festival. This picture shows the diversity of tourists and locals that visit and live in this fun filled city. By music, culture, fun and life, this picture represents all the great things Louisiana brings to this world.
Swamplands
Mike Johnson
Louisiana is a beautiful state in many ways, but when I think of Louisiana’s true beauty, I think of the swamps. In southern Louisiana around the Mississippi River delta, there are miles of incredible swamplands containing amazing animals and breathtaking scenery. Swamps and marshlands also act as our most effective protection against hurricanes, which are quite common in the Gulf of Mexico, located directly below us. If these swamplands did not exist, Hurricane Katrina’s impact on New Orleans and the surrounding areas could have been ten times worse. The swamplands are also home to hundreds of species of beautiful birds and other animals that do not want the land that they survive off of taken away from them, just as we as humans would not want everything that we live off of taken away from us. These lands are essential for our ability to withstand hurricanes and our character as a state, for the swamps and its inhabitants are one of the primary factors in what makes our state unique and attractive. My photograph is not of a swamp; it’s actually taken in Baton Rouge, but the Cypress tree represents the swamps and their importance to Louisiana. Far in the background of the photograph are cars. This represents that even though our state has a vast and unique natural habitat, humans still can inhabit its land. The cypress tree and cars in the photograph truly represent Louisiana as a place where people and nature can live in harmony with one another without the people destroying the state’s natural habitat or vice-versa. People should not pollute the environment and destroy our swamps, and it is terrible to see so many people care so little about such an enormously important situation. The water in my photograph represents the large amount of land in our state that has incredibly low elevation and has potential to easily flood. A lot of Louisiana is far below sea level, including almost all of New Orleans. Today, this would be an outrageous place to build such a large, important city; but way back when New Orleans was founded they did not think that way. People say it is a terrible location and that its dangerous and that people should move, but I disagree. Our low elevation and surrounding waters make the city have great character and uniqueness; that and its heritage produce what the city is today. New Orleans is another primary factor, which makes Louisiana’s character. When people think of Louisiana, they think of New Orleans and hopefully our beautiful swamps; this is why I wanted a photograph that represented all of these factors. I also wanted to make a statement with the photograph. I am against the disregard for our environment, specifically the swamps, and I wanted this picture to represent that stand in some way. So, the three parts of my photograph, the cypress tree, water, and human development, represent the three factors that create our states great character: the swamplands, New Orleans, and the potentiality of humans and our natural habitat living in harmony with one another.
Lousiana: Parle vous francias?
Andrew Jones
English 2000 Section 24
When I was asked to do this assignment, many ideas raced through my head. I could take pictures of swamps, LSU, seafood, alcohol, and so many other things. I believe that this goes a long way in describing Louisiana’s culture. Louisiana has some of the richest culture in the whole world. People from all around the United States do not realize the hospitality and southern charm that the state possesses. Louisiana is only state that can combine the best college in America (LSU) with the wildest party in America (Mardi Gras) along with some of the most gorgeous plantation homes in America. With all of these different things, I believe that our French history plays the biggest part in our culture. When outsiders think of Louisiana, they think of Cajuns. Cajuns is another word for a bayou Frenchmen. All of my family spoke French up to a few generations ago. Our family names are Thibodeaux and Cantrelle. There are a lot of “French” influences throughout the gorgeous state. From the French Quarter to the different names of cities, the French influences have played a giant role in the history of Louisiana. Without the influence from the French long ago, I do not believe that our state would be regarded with such distinction. When Louisianians go out to other states in the US and listen to people butcher their last names, they laugh. This is because it is so accustomed to us to know the French pronunciation for the names. Another interesting and separating fact is that Louisiana is the only state that uses parishes instead of counties. Louisiana has 64 parishes, which were created when it was a territory of the Spanish and French empires. The name that we call home, Louisiana, was named after Louis XIV, King of France from 1643–1715. I believe that the one thing that separates Louisiana culture from everyone else’s is the food. Even though this isn’t directly related to French influences, Cajuns are usually the ones with the spiciest food. Lastly, the resting home of our beloved college, Baton Rouge, has some French heritage. The word baton rouge is French for “red stick.” The Louisiana Purchase was one of the most recognized historical events that have ever taken place. The United States bought the region of Louisiana during the eighteen hundreds. Upon entering the great state of Louisiana, one is greeted by the welcome sign; it reads “Beinvenue de Louisiana.” This means, Welcome to Louisiana in French. This state reeks of French influence everywhere. When you leave the state, make sure to say, Au revior!!!
Cajun Crawfish Boil
Rose Shelton
In this picture, the crawfish, the beads, the beer, and the daiquiri all represent Louisiana. Many people in Louisiana love to eat crawfish and drink beer. Crawfish have long been an inherent part of Louisiana culture. Crawfish have been a favorite food of Louisiana for many years. South Louisiana is the crawfish capital of the world. The crawfish supports a multimillion dollar a year industry. Crawfish is a food that is very popular for people in Louisiana to cater at big events such as Mardi Gras parties, sorority and fraternity events, family gatherings, crawfish boils and many other functions. At crawfish boils, there is nothing better than drinking beer with your crawfish. Drinking your beer with crawfish is something that that young adults and older adults love to do. Crawfish not only has been a traditional food to serve at many parties, it is also a huge part in people’s life as a job. During the next 35 years, crawfish farming will have developed into the largest crustacean aquaculture industry in the United States. Louisiana leads the nation, producing more than 90% of the domestic crop. Louisiana’s economy makes 120 million dollars annually and more than 7,000 people depend directly or indirectly on the crawfish industry. The beads in the picture represent Mardi Gras which is a huge tradition in Louisiana. The traditional colors for Mardi Gras are purple, green, and gold. Purple means justice, green means faith, and gold means power. Many people wear these colors on their clothes during Mardi Gras and at the parades. Many Mardi Gras parades are hosted all over Louisiana. The parades consist of huge decorated floats, with people on them throwing beads, cups, hats, flowers, stuffed animals, footballs, and many other objects. The major parades originate Uptown and Mid- City districts that go along St. Charles Avenue and Canal street in New Orleans. Many people from all different states come to Louisiana to be here for the parades and the huge celebration to have a good time. Many people go to New Orleans for Mardi Gras and stay in the hotels for a couple of days and go out on Bourbon street and the French Quarter. Mardi Gras in New Orleans is one of the biggest celebrations in the world. This celebration is the start of the Catholic season of Lent. Celebrations are especially concentrated for about two weeks before and through Fat Tuesday, the day before Ash Wednesday. All of the Mardi Gras celebrations are celebrated for many days with music, Cajun food, friends and family. The daiquiri in the picture represents Louisiana in a unique way. Louisiana is one of the only places that have drive thru stops for daiquiris. If someone wanted a daiquiri to go they could find a place and get one. One of the only laws about this is that the straw cannot be in the cup if caught with it while driving. This picture represents Louisiana in a couple of different ways. The crawfish, the beads, the beer, and the daiquiri are some things that make Louisiana unique.
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