Brief Reflections on 2018

As we say goodbye to 2018, I want to take a moment to thank you guys for being here and for being a part of what was a terrific year for me.  This blog turned ten years old this year and some of you have been here since the first day.

It's been a good year.  Your support of my classroom library project has been phenomenal and it has been, and will continue to be, a wonderful success.

If you've been here a long time, you followed my Cane River Bohemia journey and we finally saw that project come to fruition this year with the publication in October of my book about the remarkable life of Cammie Henry.  What a ride that has been, and continues to be!  Thank you!

This year I discovered lots of new books to love (some in the links below), I fell in love with Acadiana and made some wonderful new friends, I attended the Books Along the Teche Literary Festival and I presented at the Louisiana Book Festival. I propagated Spanish moss in my magnolia tree, I went to some baseball games, and I tried really hard to be a nice person (it wasn't always easy!)

The year has been a good one for me, but it hasn't been for everyone and there has been a lot of loss and sadness too.

As we look to 2019, I want to keep the good vibes and momentum going. I don't make resolutions, but I do want to continue to reflect and grow every single day. Let's all remember to be kind to each other.

Tonight, if you're out celebrating, don't drink and drive. Call a taxi, call Uber, call a friend.

We are staying in, with our animals (who hate fireworks), and I'll probably be reading a book. Tomorrow, the Winter Classic and our traditional black eyed peas, greens, and corned beef.

Y'all stay safe and have a great New Year!

Happy New Year!

Hope everyone survived the New Year safe and happy.

Dear 2013

Dear 2013,

I wish I could say it's been nice knowing you, but I can't.

In the spirit of the hundreds of "year's end" posts that are published this time of year, please accept this small one from me.

Go away.

I could list all the reasons why 2013 has been a personally lousy year in my small part of the universe which would include everything from the loss of my mother to the breakup of my favorite local band.  I had jury duty.  There was one expensive household problem after another (plumbing, automotive, etc.) and some expensive legal issues. My ex lost his father, which was my son's grandfather, who was a veteran and a very kind man.  A couple of friends and acquaintances made their exit as well.  The world is a darker place without them.

I could list all those things but



In truth, there were some good things this year, not the least of which is that I survived all those bad things.

When I needed help getting classroom materials and books for my students in August, my blog readers came through big time!  For that, I'm eternally grateful.  Also good this year, my stepson married a wonderful girl and they're on their way to a wonderful life together.  I have a beautiful grandson who amazes me every single day and my daughter and her husband are blessed beyond measure.  Grateful.  My son is making good grades at the local Community College.  Blessed.

Steve and I took a great vacation this past summer visiting a number of places across the Midwest and certainly got our kicks on Route 66; planning something big for 2014!

I am lucky to have some good friends and great people in my life and to have developed some special friendships this year.

Steve and I both have our health, three dogs, jobs, and a roof over our heads.

Dear 2013, while you were often painful and frequently expensive, there was some good there.

But overall, I won't be sad to see you go.

Goodbye.

New Year's Eve in Shreveport 2014

I'm a bit slow on the annual "what to do for New Year's Eve" post, but let's give it a shot.  Here's a roundup of events in case you want to get out and celebrate after the Independence Bowl:

The American Legion Post 14 on beautiful Cross Lake will have their annual festivities from 8:00 - 1:00. Music will be provided by Dickie T and the Back When Band and your ticket includes appetizers. There will be a cash bar.  Tickets are $25 for singles, $30 for couples.

El Dorado Casino will have musical entertainment by Big Richard.  Their festivities feature a New Year's Eve showgirl with a 50 foot red carpet train attached to her dress.  The Allure Lounge will have silver clad showgirls.  Visit the casino site for prices and packages.

Sam's Town in Shreveport will feature zydeco legend  Rockin' Dopsie, Jr. in a free concert with party favors and champagne.  He takes the stage at 10:00.

The Moose Lodge on Industrial will host an Elvis tribute with Richard Cook.  There will be a cash bar and tickets are $10 in advance, $15 at the door.  The fun begins at 9:00.  Call 688-6733 for more information.

The always awesome Robinson Film Center will hold its annual screening of The Rocky Horror Picture Show.  The show begins at 10 but you'll want to make reservations for dinner at Abby Singer's Bistro where you can feast on prime rib, lobster mac and cheese, and grilled asparagus.  Top it off with a complimentary glass of champagne.  You'll need reservations so call 459-4125 to take care of that.

The Boot on Texas Street downtown is celebrating New Years AND helping a local animal rescue (Yogie and Friends).  They'll have karaoke and a raffle to enter a brand new Jager machine.  It begins at 7:00 p.m. and goes until 4:00 a.m.

Harrah's at Louisiana Downs hosts an annual party with DJ Love and cover band Miss Used.  There will be fireworks at midnight.

Fatty Arbuckles on the Clyde Fant Parkway downtown will host its annual New Year's Eve party with music by the Lackadasies, Engine, and Jacob Disedare.  Tickets are $15 in advance, $20 at the door.  You'll get a bottle of champagne upon entrance.

Diamond Jacks Casino has a free party with music by Elaw from 6 - 9, and Side FX from 9-1; free champagne and party favors.  It begins at 6:00.

Not into the club scene?  Go bowling instead.  Each year Holiday Lanes does intergalactic Glow in the Dark Bowling.  The evening includes unlimited bowling, a breakfast platter, party favors, and a champagne toast at midnight.  Tickets are $25 for adults, $15 for age twelve and younger.

SciPort will host New Year's at Noon on Dec. 31; wear your PJs and watch the SciPort ball drop.  There will be a party hat contest, face painting, a Space Dome dance party, and lots of craft activities.  The fun begins at 9:00 a.m. and goes until about 2.  Admission is free with paid Center admission.

If you're here for the Advocare Independence Bowl, there are lots of great restaurants in the area to start your New Year's Eve evening after the game.  There are all the normal chain and franchise restaurants and fast food joints (most of them on the south end of Youree Drive) and many excellent local, independent restaurants.  Some of my favorites:

The Blind Tiger in downtown Shreveport is a popular local spot for great Louisiana cajun style food.

If you need to get your Mexican food fix on, you can't go wrong at Nicky's.  Nicky's has several locations (we prefer the one on Airline Drive.  Ask for Mirabelle to be your server!)  Nicky's is reasonably priced, consistently good, and has great cold draft beer in huge frosted glasses.

Herby K's is a local favorite and the shrimp buster is famous.  Again, cold beer, frosted glasses.  Very nice.

My favorite, and the place where you'll find me, is The Anvil Bar and Grill on Line Avenue.  Joe

Fertitta runs one of the best restaurants in town and has a long history of consistently excellent food and service.  At The Anvil you will find the freshest seafood and the finest steaks as well as excellent pasta dishes and burgers. Lennice Bolton will be singing in the bar, working his keyboard and guitar.  He'll sing Sam Cooke, B.B. King, and other mellow tunes.  Reservations are recommended.

Ernest's Orleans Restaurant is another local favorite, famous for their marinated crab claws.  Ernest's is located at the top of the hill as you enter downtown from the south.  Dez Duron will perform and Ernest's will have a Prix Fixe menu.  Reservations recommended.

Texas Roadhouse is a nice franchise with a very good, affordable steak.  It's located right off I20 on Gould Drive in Bossier City.

If Asian food is calling your name, Ming Garden on Shreveport-Barksdale Highway is an excellent choice.

If it's a burger that you crave, you can't go wrong at the newly opened Twisted Root on Line Avenue, near the Loop.  Twisted Root has a full bar, a lively atmosphere, and a variety of burgers (including game like venison or buffalo) and a pickle bar. I recommend the sweet potato chips.

Remember, don't drink and drive.  Get a designated driver or call a taxi.  Some local taxi services you might want to program into your phone:

Yellow Checker Cab:  425-7000
Action Taxi:  222-8294 (222-TAXI)
Casino Cabs:  425-3325
Four Aces Taxi:  632-0005

Stay safe and have fun!

Happy 2014!

New Years Eve 2013 Events in Shreveport-Bossier

How are you going to spend New Year's Eve this year?

Here's our annual roundup of local events in the Shreveport-Bossier area.  Email me with info if I've missed something good!

Horseshoe Casino in Bossier City will have a rooftop party featuring Windstorm while inside, at CMT, Cody Cooke and the Bayou Outlaws will be performing

Lake Street Dancehall in downtown Shreveport will have Black Oak Arkansas performing.  Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 at the door.  Lake Street is a non-smoking bar - you've got to step outside if you want to smoke.

Fatty Arbuckles downtown, in the Red River District, has Gashcat and Ghost Foot kicking off at 10:00.  There's a small cover charge.

Harrah's Casino in Bossier City will host their annual free celebration and fireworks show starting at 8:00.  The Spazmatics and DJ Love will keep the music going.

If you are looking for somewhere to usher in 2013, join us at Harrah’s Louisiana Downs for a FREE New Year’s Eve celebration. The fun starts at 8 p.m. with the Party in the Pavilion. Dance the night away to all your favorites from the 80’s with the Spazmatics. DJ Love will also make waves with all of your dance favorites from today and yesterday! We will count down to 2013 and when the clock strikes midnight we will celebrate with showers of confetti and party favors. Then at 12:15 a.m., Fireworks will light up the sky above Harrah’s Louisiana Downs. Come join us for a night of FREE Fun and Fireworks!

Eldorado Casino in Shreveport is going Moroccan for New Years sponsored by Ultimate and Gray Goose Vodka.  There will be hookahs on every table.  You can reserve a table with bottle service or buy a $20 wrist band for entry.

Paris… New York… London… all great places to ring in the new year. Save yourself the trip, because this December 31, Eldorado brings the global vibe to you with a red carpet event like no other. Celebrity and Allure Ultra Lounge are raising the bar on Shreveport-Bossier nightlife again this New Year’s Eve with two clubs for the price of one. Celebrate in classic New Year’s Eve style at Celebrity Lounge, Sponsored by Ultimat Vodka, and rock the exotic as Allure Ultra Lounge and Grey Goose Vodka go Morrocan, including hookahs for every table. Reserve your table with bottle service or get your $20 entry wrist band today – space WILL GO FAST. Wrist bands are $35 after December 25. Triggerproof performs live. Sophisticated nightlife attire required.

Rockin Dopsie and the Zydeco Twisters will be at Sam's Town in Shreveport.

Chicky's Boom Boom Room on Texas Street downtown will feature Windstorm.

The Robinson Film Center in Shreveport is screening Bridget Jones's Diary and will serve dinner at 8:00.  Call for reservations.

Holiday Lanes in Bossier sold out their New Year's event last year.  This year they're expanding options with an early family event and a later which includes a breakfast platter, unlimited intergalactic glow-in-the-dark bowling, and champagne at midnight.

The American Legion on Cross Lake has a party featuring The Rockin' Redeyes.  Ticket are $40.00 per couple or $25.00 single.  Fun starts at 8:00.

SciPort in Shreveport hosts their New Years at Noon event from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.  Wear your pajamas and watch the ball drop.  There will be a party hat contest and other events.

Is your bedtime way before midnight? Do you wish there was a way to bring in the New Year a few hours earlier? Then, come celebrate New Years at Noon at Sci-Port! Dress in your party pajamas (family appropriate, please), and watch the ball drop right here at Sci-Port, along with a thousand balloons! There will also be an old-to-new party hat contest: you'll turn your old trash or recyclables into a new party hat! Paper yo-yos, noisemakers, a Space Dome dance party, sundials and face painting will all be part of the excitement. Be prepared to party like it's (almost) 2013 at Sci-Port! 

If you want to venture out of the city a bit, drive over to Jefferson, Texas and catch the very hot Soulfish Blues Band at Auntie Skinners.

And if you plan to drink, please get a designated driver or call a cab.  Put some of these numbers into your cell phone before you head out.

Ace Cabs:  318- 425-3325
Action Taxi:  318- 222-8294
Golden Stripe Cab Service 318- 675-0411
Yellow Checker Cab 318- 621-9823

If you're looking for some good places to eat before you head out, SIGIS recommends these fine local restaurants.  We have plenty of chain restaurants, too.

The Anvil Bar and Grill on Line Avenue is fabulous.  You can get a delicious bone-in ribeye or fresh fish of the day as well as your favorite Italian specialties.  The daily specials are always fabulous.  I recommend the shrimp and grits.  Reservations recommended.

Marilynn's Place on Fern has great po-boys, red beans and rice, shrimp creole,  and terrific daily specials.

The Blind Tiger in downtown Shreveport is a terrific, casual restaurant and bar with great burgers and crab cakes.  They offer a variety of fried seafood, shrimp, and sandwiches.

For a fine dining experience, try L'Italiano in Bossier City on Barksdale Blvd. Try one of the daily specials or tradition Italian specialties.  The fresh fish is always good and don't miss out on the stuffed mushrooms!  Reservations recommended.

Full Metal Jacket Reach Around: New Year 2012 Edition

Happy 2012 to you all.

Why is it that I feel like I'm at the top of the Super Slide at the State Fair?

As we get this year started I'm cooking our traditional New Year's meal:  corned beef brisket and cabbage.  I've souped up the cabbage this year with this terrific recipe from The Blue Willow Inn.  I've made it before; it's easy and very good.

I'm watching my neighbor outside with his blower, blowing his oak leaves and acorns into my yard.  Shortly I will have to go outside with a rake and clean it all up.  I've been known to go out there and blow them all back in his yard, but I'm trying not to be petty.

Mr. SIGIS and I were asleep before midnight last night.  We went to Ming Garden and had Pad Thai for dinner then went to our local hangout for its last night (going under new management).  We were home by 9:30.  We like it that way.  It was foggy last night and the streets slick with the humidity.  We saw enough loopy driving on the way home to be glad we weren't out any later.

We are sad that the annual outdoor hockey game isn't on today - it's become a New Year's Day tradition, but it will be on tomorrow instead.  Looking forward to that.

I've been perusing the blogs today.  We'll start 2012 out with some Rule 2 action:

Bride of Rove is celebrating the New Year with a new knife sharpener and some introspection.

Donald Douglas is also feeling introspective.

Althouse sums up Obama's eternal position on detainees.

Smitty has some predictions for the new year, including "a permanent golfing arrangement" for BHO.

Andy also has some predictions.

Paco offers no introspection and no retrospection, just a prayer.

Goldfish and Clowns says it's time to "rethink Romney." (H/T: Smitty)

Doug Ross reports on a challenger for John Boehner.

Professor Jacobson comments on Obama's Middle East position and also links to Andy McCarthy's article that I posted yesterday.  Everyone should read that article.

Enough for now.  I have acorns to rake up.  I'd leave them for the squirrels but no amount of squirrels could eat all those things and besides, they roll out from under me when I walk which is dangerous for a girl with a bad ankle.

A prosperous and blessed new year to you all!

Ringing In the New Year With Sam

Happy New Year!

Mr. SIGIS and I are headed out for dinner (Asian) and then to our local hangout with friends for a bit.  We'll make it an early evening and get home before the crazies get on the road.  We like to be safe at home on New Year's Eve and there is plenty of Sam Adams in the fridge.

Happy New Year to my SIGIS readers and stay safe out there.  Here's to a prosperous 2012!

New Year's Eve 2012 in Shreveport BUMPED AND UPDATED

Scroll down for updates

It's Christmas Eve but lots of folks are already making New Year's Eve plans.  I'm posting my annual guide now because many of these events require advance reservations.

Here is a line up of your choices this year if you're in Shreveport:

At Harrah's Louisiana Downs there will be a free New Year's Eve party featuring entertainment by Disco Inferno, DJ Love and a spectacular fireworks show!  The show starts at 8:00.

At Valencia on Cross Lake there will be a grand Gala.  Website here:

BWebbConnected is looking forward to raise the bar and bring to Shreveport-Bossier City one of the hottest celebrations to welcome in 2012! ~All-Star Line Up Entertainment~Shreveport-Bossier City's Own~ **Alter Ego Live Band Entertainment** *Louisiana Go DJ Slim Live in the Mix** NYE Gala Details: The VIP Pass grants you Early Access -Guided escort to your VIP seating area to enjoy an intimate 5-course meal**, Champagne or Premium Brand drink of choice and a Jazz ensemble with lakefront view. Champagne Toast at Midnight. NYE Party Favors. General Admission: -Hot Hors D'Oeuvres Buffet Style -Champagne Toast at Midnight -NYE Party Favors >>Formal/Semi-Formal Dress Attire Appreciated<< ~Tickets Info~ **This is an ALL-INCLUSIVE EVENT**VIP PASS-$85 **General Admission (Open Bar Armband)-$40 *General Admission (Entry & Hot Hors D'oeuvres)-$25 Tickets can be purchased at www.nye2012gala.com or TOO GROOVE in Pierre Bossier Mall or call 318-820-6395. Space is limited!! 

Dominique's Event Facility on Texas Street has a party:

Dominique's Event Facility now open: New Year's Eve party will be over the top, the tickets are $20.00 at the door come and bring in the New Years in an elegant and historical atmosphere. There will be free food and cash bar . Please call for more information (318)402-935.

Sam's Town Casino in downtown Shreveport will have Rockin' Dopsie, Jr., free party favors, and champagne at midnight.

The El Dorado Casino is having a masquerade ball with a cash prize; details here:

The Elite Masquerade Ball, sponsored by Stoli Elit Vodka, is December 31 in Eldorado’s Celebrity and Allure Ultra Lounge. Dress for the Masquerade and walk the red carpet – the best masks win cash. Reserve your table with bottle service, featuring Stoli Elit and champagne, or order your entry wrist band today. Rock in the New Year with Triggerproof live in Celebrity Lounge. Sophisticated nightlife attire required. Doors open at 7 pm and space WILL GO FAST. Table reservations and general admission wristbands are available on a first-come-first-serve basis.

Holiday Lanes on Old Minden Road in Bossier City is ringing in the New Year bowling.  It's a kid friendly event.  See here for options.

9:00 pm - Bowl in our New Year with Holiday Lanes. You can enjoy a great night of bowling, food and drinks with your friends and family. Our fantastic New Year's Eve party package gives you:

• UNLIMITED Intergalactic Bowling all night (9 pm - 2 am)

• Breakfast Platter

• Party Favor Pack

• Glass of bubbly at midnight (or regular fountain drink for under 21's)

Another kid-friendly event is at SciPort at noon:

Start the New Year off with us this year at our annual New Year's at Noon party on Saturday, December 31. As the clock strikes Noon in Shreveport, we will be commemorating our East Asian counterparts as they celebrate their New Year at Midnight. Come celebrate, and learn about the traditions of East Asian cultures, which include our traditional Dragon Dance! Plan to count down to Noon at Sci-Port with a balloon drop! 

Fatty Arbuckle's in downtown Shreveport is hosting an event with Flow Tribe.

Chicky's Boom Boom Room on Texas Street downtown will have Bushrod Jenkins kicking off at 11.  I can vouch for the wonderful oysters on the half shell at Chicky's!

Nearby, The Noble Savage will have Dirty Red Jazz.  Dinner is from 7-10 and reservations are required.  Those spots are going fast so act quickly.  Wild Boar is on the menu!

Lake Street Dance Hall will feature the Bayou Boogie Band but seats are limited to 100 so make your reservations!  (Bonus!  Buddy Flett will be there Friday for a Blues Happy Hour from 5 - 7!)

Updates with more events to follow as they develop.  If you know of an event, drop me a line and I'll post it.

Added:

The Northwest Louisiana Square and Round Dance Association will be dancing in the New Year at the Promenade Hall, 5400 Benton Road, in Bossier City.  Snacks and finger foods provided; Admission is $15 per couple and $8 individual.  Call 318-752-1474 for more information.

The American Legion Post 14 hosts its annual NYE bash.  Music will be provided by the Rockin Red Eye band.  A breakfast buffet will be served and there will be a cash bar, party favors, and fireworks.  Details here.

Code 3 will host its New Years Eve bash again this year with The Smith Brothers band.  This will be the club's last big party before it goes under new ownership so there will be deep discounts at the bar.  It should be a grand time!  Code 3 is located right next to Beams Restaurant at 2826 Barksdale Blvd.

The Robinson Film Center will be screening The Rocky Horror Picture Show at 10 p.m.  Come dressed up, of course, and enjoy some cheap champagne.  After the film, watch the ball drop on the big screen.  Big fun!

(12/30/11:  The event at the RFC is now sold out)

Update:  Fat Cats is having a party:

One of the area's hottest, most buzzed about new bands of the year, Super Water Sympathy, will help ring in the new year at Fat Cats, 10 p.m.- 2 a.m. Dec. 31.  Fresh off the release of their debut album, "Vesper Belle," the quintet will perform live with Jacob Davis on stage under a big heated tent between Fat Cats and City Bar.

The event will include drinks, a light show, Mario Kart and Super Mario 3 video games, as well as Micronesian designer Vegas Rose IV, who will be developing Oxygen Child Y.

A reader asked about taxi services - a very good point.  Put some of these numbers into your cell phone before you head out:

Golden Stripe Cab:  318-675-0411
Able Taxi:  318-459-3800
Action Taxi:  318-222-8294
Yellow Checker Cab:  318-621-9823
Ace Cabs:  318-425-3325

I've used most of these companies to shuttle The Teenager to work before he got a car.  I don't have complaints from any of them.  Ace Cabs gets high marks here, though.

Added:

You want to eat first and you're not going to an event that serves food?  Well, if you're partying at one of the casinos, they each have multiple dining options.   Other than that, here are some SIGIS recommendations (and I'm noting local places, not chains.  We have plenty of those too if that's your preference):

We love The Blind Tiger in the downtown area.  It's casual, has great food and atmosphere, and has a bar.  It's on the corner of Texas and Spring so you can people watch while you eat.

Close to downtown but on the fringes, we like the neighborhood Fat Boys Bar and Grill.  They've got the best hamburgers in town.  We like the onion rings and sweet potato fries, too.  I also like the beef quesadillas.  An added bonus, the service is the friendliest I've found anywhere.

You want something a little more formal?  You can't beat L'Italiano on Barksdale Blvd. in Bossier City.  It sits in the shadow of the casinos and five minutes from downtown Shreveport.  It's fine dining Italian and if you're lucky, Claudio will cruise by your table and sing in Italian.  Beautiful!  They've got fabulous specials each day and I favor the fish dishes.

Away from downtown yet nestled amongst all the plain vanilla chain places is Vince's Southport Restaurant.  We love the Steam Pot: a plate full of boiled shrimp, sausage, potatoes and corn.  Can't beat it!

Another great neighborhood place is Marilynn's; it's located in a renovated service station and follows that theme.  There's a deck for outside seating and jazz playing over the speakers.  The menu is New Orleans style:  po-boys, red beans and rice, shrimp creole, and beignets on demand.

If you're in the mood for Mexican food, our favorite is Nicky's on Airline Drive.  Again, great service and the best Mexican food. 

Added 12/30/11:  The Shreveport Times list of events.

On Books and The New Year

I don't make New Years Resolutions.  Never have.  But I do promise that once I go back to work next week I'll get back to blogging more on politics and less on what I'm reading!
But, since we're talking about it, let's just update the reading table, shall we?  When we last checked in I'd just finished Jim Brown's Justice Denied.  Excellent read.  From there I picked up Stephen King's Full Dark, No Stars because after Brown's tale it seemed I needed to read something just a little more bizarre and Stephen King was the only person to do it. 

Either you're a Stephen King fan or you're not.  I have a long history with King and have been reading him since the very first books.  Some were great, some were ridiculous.  Some were awful.  A couple I never even tried.  I'm a real fan, however, of his On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft; we refer to parts of it in my Creative Writing class and the students really respond to it.  Of his more recent books, I thought Lisey's Story was ... interesting and creative, but not his best stuff although it was well received.  Duma Key was dumb, but it held my interest.  I liked Bag of Bones and I liked Blaze, which he did as Richard Bachman.  I hated Under the Dome and wanted to throw it in the road when I was finished.

That's the thing about Stephen King.  You love him or you hate him.  At any rate, his latest collection of stories in Full Dark, No Stars, four actually, was very good.  Well, I liked them.  They were dark, of course, but at the end I wasn't angry at the outcome of any of them.

I tend to alternate between fiction and non-fiction as I read.  I'm now into Bobby Jindal's Leadership and Crisis.  So far, I like it.  He's got a personable, easy style; very conversational.  The opening chapter dealt with the BP oil spill and seemed to just jump right into things without any introduction or fanfare.  The chapter seemed out of place, like it should have been at the end.  I guess he figured that's what people wanted to read about so he put it first.  From there it covers his childhood and that of his parents, and his educational background.  I've just finished reading about his shock at discovering that Ivy League universities are exceptionally liberal.  He went to Brown and was told not to call females "girls" or "ladies" because that was sexist, but to call them "women."  He was also scoffed at for holding doors open for his female classmates.

Steve and I spent New Year's Eve settled in our living room, Big Band music playing softly in the background, reading books.  We each had a dog beside us; I had a beer and he had a gin & tonic.  It was quiet and perfect.  Neither one of us is much on getting out with the crazies on New Years.  Steve is reading A Confederacy of Dunces and every few minutes he'd laugh and snicker as he read.

Today, we planned to watch the Winter Classic at noon (go Penguins!), as is our tradition, but due to weather issues it's been moved until this evening, which is fine.  I'll put a corned beef brisket in to cook, make a pot of cabbage (with a big ham bone!) and some purple hull peas from Lester's Farm.  We'll have some guacamole, and a Santa Fe Roasted Pepper Cheese Ball, and we'll spend another quiet day.  I know, we're boring.  But we like it!  It'll be back to the grind soon enough for us both.

So, Happy New Year to you all, thanks for reading this blog all year, and I'll get back to politics real soon!  I promise!  In the meantime, enjoy the quiet.

New Years Eve In Shreveport Bossier 2010-2011

You've found last year's post.  Go here for the 2011-2012 list.

Today in Shreveport the Independence Bowl between Air Force and Georgia Tech kicks off  at 4 pm.  Both teams have been making appearances around town at various hospitals and events as well as a Pep Rally and Battle of the Bands event at CenturyTel Center last night.  There are still tickets available for the game if you'd like to head out to Independence Stadium and take part.  I'm sure there is a lot of fun tailgating going on out there today!  The weather is clear and beautiful today, although a bit chilly.

With New Years Eve coming up in a few days, it's time to take a look around and see what your options are in the Shreveport Bossier area this year.

Harrah's Louisiana Downs will have the Spazmatics again this year.  It's an 80s dance party that kicks off at 8pm.  There will be party favors and a balloon drop at midnight.

Boomtown Casino is offering the Stiff Necked Fools in performance and lots of giveaways.

Diamond Jack's Casino in Bossier City has entertainment by The Nomads, free champagne and a balloon drop.

ElDorado Casino has a Walk the Red Carpet New Years Eve event beginning at 7pm.  Go here for ticket options:

The party will usher in 2011 and locally launch “A Tribute to Andy Warhol” champagne by Dom Perginon. The creation of this unique collection of three bottles by the Design Laboratory at Central Saint Martin’s School of Art & Design pays tribute to Warhol, creative genius and one of the most illustrious artists of the 20th century.  “Walk the Red Carpet” New Year’s Eve at Eldorado offers guests true VIP treatment found at major clubs in Vegas, New York, and Los Angeles. All VIP guests will enter on the red carpet, where they will pose for a brief photo shoot by local “paparazzi”. Guests will then be escorted to their private tables stocked for bottle service with Limited Edition Belvedere Vodka and Dom Perignon Champagne from the “Andy Warhol Series.” Each table will also be supplied with special party favors from Louis Vuitton/Moet/Hennessy and Eldorado Casino. 

The American Legion on Cross Lake will have its annual New Years bash from 8 to 1:00; go here to order tickets.

Holiday Lanes in Bossier City has a New Years celebration, too.  For $25 (for adults) you get unlimited glow-in-the-dark bowling from 9pm - 2am; breakfast platter, party pack favors, and champagne at midnight.  Kids can come too; tickets for kids are $15 for under 12 years of age.

SciPort on the Riverfront has their annual New Years at Noon event; it starts at 10am and runs until 2pm:

Come celebrate the "Noon Year" at our unique New Year's Eve party where we commemorate a cultural new year's exploration!  As the clock strikes Noon in Shreveport, Indonesia will start their month-long preparation for Imlek, which is the Chinese word for New Year.  Sci-Port families can celebrate and learn about the traditions of Imlek including the traditional Dragon Dance, then count down to "midnight" Sci-Port-style with a balloon drop!

There are plenty of local restaurants to serve you.  SIGIS recommends The Blind Tiger downtown for burgers or their classic Louisiana creations; L'Italino for your fine dining Italian experience, or Vince's South Port for your seafood desires! 

There are lots of local clubs offering celebrations as well.  I'll update this post as I discover exactly who is doing what.  If you know of something exciting going on in the SB area for New Years, leave it in the comments!

Update:  Here is The Shreveport Times list of activities.

Code 3 Lounge at 2826 Barksdale Blvd.(right outside the Barksdale AFB Shreveport gate)  is having a New Years Eve Party and has The Cole V band playing.  SIGIS recommends Code 3 as a nice place to go!

New Year's Eve in Shreveport

What to do in Shreveport on New Year's Eve? Here's a rundown:

Jayne Marie on Cross Lake is having a party. Details at Trudeau's place.

The Robinson Film Center has festivities, including a screening of When Harry Met Sally, followed by a party and live music. Details here.

Krewe of Elders is having a New Year's Eve party at the American Legion Hall on Cross Lake - open to the public for $30. Details.

Sam's Town Casino is having a party with Rockin' Dopsie and the Zydeco Twisters.

Eldorado Casino and Resort has a party with Bushrod Jenkins and the Crisis.

There is a free fireworks show at Harrah's Louisiana Downs and for entertainment - The Spazmatics.

Boomtown Casino has the Groove Agents at their party.

Sciport has a New Year's at Noon celebration from 10 a.m. to 2 today.

The Warehouse on Commerce Street will have American Tragedy and ReflectionsBurn starting at 10:00. Details here.

If you're going downtown around the Shreveport casinos (there are also Bossier casinos), I'd recommend dinner at The Blind Tiger. Of course, you can eat at the casino, but The Blind Tiger is great! Unfortunately, their site is under construction but here is a partial menu, and here is a post I did on them last year.

If you're going the other direction, to the south end of town, eat at Vince's! We love to eat there, and it's a local establishment, as is The Blind Tiger, which I believe in supporting. All the typical chain joints are out that way, too, but you can't beat Vince's. Here is my review on them.

I'm sure there's more, so if you're local and you know of something to share, email me, or leave a comment.

iPhone Apps for New Year's Eve

With New Year's Eve approaching, you might be interested in a couple of apps for your iPhone if you're planning on driving home after a few cocktails. Via USA Today:

"R-U-Buzzed," a free application released Dec. 2 from the Colorado Department of Transportation, allows you to quickly determine your blood alcohol level. Simply spin the wheel to your weight, how many drinks you've had and the amount of time you've been drinking and the app will tell you if you're safe to drive.

Additionally, the app allows the user to contact a cab, although this feature only searches for cabs within Colorado. The app will guide users in other states to links for cabs in their areas.

There is also this:

One app that claims to provide more precision in determining users' blood alcohol level is "Last Call" from Avvo.com, a website that helps people find and select lawyers.

Last Call requires the user to input more detailed information on the size and type of drinks consumed, and tracks the amount of time drinking automatically.

This blogger will be staying home on New Year's Eve and does NOT advocate drinking and driving! iPhone apps are sometimes useful and sometimes just toys. Be smart!

Help for Your Hangover

So did you have one too many last night? It's probably a little late now, but National Geographic offers some hangover helpers from around the world you might try next time you are over served:

In Germany you might resort to some pickled herring in a dish called rollmops in which fillets of the fish are rolled around onions and gherkin.

In China, green tea is the answer. In Japan, super salty pickled prunes. Works best served with green tea.

In Italy you would try some very strong espresso. In the Netherlands, more beer, of course.

In Mexico you might try shrimp, especially in a wet seafood salad combined with other shellfish, tomatoes, lime, onions and cilantro.

In Russia you would just go to the sauna and sweat it out, but on the way be sure to pick up some birch branches which you will use to whip yourself with.

In Romania, try some greasy, salty tripe soup which would have root vegetables, garlic, vinegar and cream.

And finally, if you are hungover in Poland, drink either sour milk or sour pickle juice.

In the United States, well, lots of things work. My personal preference is lots of aspirin, vitamin C and a spicy Bloody Mary. I'll pass on the tripe soup, thanks.

(Photo from Lao Cuisine)

New Year's Food

The best thing about New Year's day to me is eating. As soon as I get up I get the food going. This is southern food at its best!

This year instead of ham (since we just had that at Christmas) I'm going to have a corned beef brisket. I decided against having greens and opted for cabbage (at Steve's request). And of course, black eyed peas and cornbread. I typically reject dried peas; they never taste right to me, and NEVER canned ones. Frozen are okay but fresh are best. In my case, fresh/frozen.

I'll cook both my peas and my cabbage with a big ole' ham hock in each. I'll also break out the chow chow Steve and I bought in Jefferson, which is a sweet/spicy/hot cabbage based relish. Sounds bizarre, but it's wonderful! And in the south when you serve black eyed peas, you usually have a side relish of diced tomatoes and sweet onion marinated in vinegar. Lots of hot, sweet, buttery cornbread on the side!

How I cook black eyed peas:

2 c. fresh black eyed peas
2 lbs. smoked ham hocks
onion, sliced in half
1 fresh jalapeno or cayenne pepper

Place the ham hocks in a heavy 4 to 6 quart pot and add enough water to cover the meat by at least 1 inch. Bring to a boil over high heat, reduce the heat to low and simmer partially covered for 2 hours, or until the ham hocks are tender and show no resistance when pierced deeply with the point of a small skewer or sharp knife.

In a sieve or colander, wash the black-eyed peas under cold running water until the draining water is clear. Add the peas, onion, pepper and a few grindings of black pepper to the pot, mix well, and bring to a boil over high heat.

Reduce the heat to low and simmer partially covered until the peas are tender.

And then turn on the football game!

New Year's Eve

Happy New Year! Or New Year's Eve anyway. As the year draws to a close, many people are looking back at the "best of" or "worst of" aspects of 2008. I'm ready to put 2008 in the can so I'm not looking back.

I'm looking forward to 2009. I don't EVER make New Year resolutions for multiple reasons. I'd never stick to them and if I want to set a goal or alter behavior I can do that when the mood strikes. I am, however, taking a small moment to evaluate some small personal goals. My blog is about six months old and I'm beginning to get the feel for where I want it to go. I'm not too far off track from that. I'd like to thank the folks that stop by and read what I write and who comment. The blogging-gods say "your blog should have focus!" and mine is kind of all over the place, but I like that. I'm not making a living at it, nor do I intend to, so I don't feel the pressure to write about just politics or just books or just teaching... I will say though that the political season was crazy-fun and I made some new friends (Right in Florida and of course Sarah) and maybe lost a couple. I'm sure we can expect much more political writing in the future!

As for my New Year's Eve plans - it's going to be me, Checkers and the Teenager; Steve will be keeping the city safe from drunks and crazies. I'll open a bottle of fine beer and say hello to 2009. And I'll probably be blogging.

Verbal Irony

New York mayor Michael Bloomberg has selected the Clintons to "drop the ball."

There's a certain irony in that.