Boogie on the Bricks and Fall Farmer's Market in Natchitoches

Boogie on the Bricks will return on Nov. 7

Outdoor concert will feature 80s cover band BOOMERANG

After the Northwestern home football game on Saturday, Nov. 7, enjoy a free concert and street dance in downtown Natchitoches.

Boogie on the Bricks will be held from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Front Street after the NSU home football game against Southeastern, which will kickoff at 2 p.m. at Turpin Stadium on Nov. 7.

The concert will feature BOOMERANG, one of southwest Louisiana’s most exciting and popular bands. BOOMERANG covers many 80s songs in addition to other types of dance music such as R&B, soul, funk, classic rock, country and swamp pop.

BOOMERANG is known to generate a party atmosphere wherever they perform and their music will make you want to move and groove from the first note to the last.

Boogie on the Bricks has received several awards for its contributions to the Natchitoches Historic District including the Louisiana Main Street Award for Best Image Building Promotion.

Boogie on the Bricks is sponsored by the City of Natchitoches Main Street Program and the Natchitoches Historic District Development Commission.

For more information about Boogie on the Bricks, call the Main Street Office at 318-352-2746 or 866-941-MAIN.

____________________________________________________________

Last fall harvest at the
Cane River Green Market on Oct. 31

The Cane River Green Market will hold a final “Fall Harvest” market on Sat. Oct. 31, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the downtown riverbank.

Besides fresh fruits, vegetables and plants, customers can choose from a selection of “value-added products” including farm fresh eggs, homemade breads, jams, jellies and pickles. Abba’s organics will have sweet and hot peppers, lettuce, okra, beans and other seasonal produce.

Craft vendors will also be on site with hand-made crafts such as woodwork, artwork, jewelry, candles, soaps, pottery, furniture and more.


On Oct. 31, enjoy live music by The Lukejazz Trio from 10 a.m. to noon. The Lukejazz Trio is an exciting jazz group with a repertoire consisting of jazz standards and originals in the swing, Latin and bebop styles with moods that range from exhilarating to romantic.

WesMar Farms will be onsite with their goat milk products including milk, cheeses and soaps. This will be your last opportunity for market favorites such as smoked boudain, hot tamales, crab dips, sweet potatoes and honey.

Patrons can enjoy complimentary coffee, free magnets and reduced prices on all market merchandise. There will be fun for the kids as well. Children can trick-or-treat at the Green Market tent, enjoy fall craft projects and take family pictures with the fall decorations on the riverbank.

For more information about the market, please call the Cane River Green Market 318-352-CRGM or visit www.canerivergreenmarket.com.
_________________________________________________________

Source and Photo Credit: City of Natchitoches

Sugar Day at Kent House

The second Saturday in November brings Sugar Day to Kent Plantation House once again. This year’s festival, November 14th from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., promises to be filled with food, traditional crafts, music, and fun for all ages with the scent of cooking syrup filling the air. Admission to the grounds for the day will cost $3.00 per person and children six and under will be free.

New to the festival this year will be the poster competition. Area artists were invited to design the first commemorative poster for the 16th annual festival. The winning poster should reflect the image of the Sugar Day Festival. A commission of $300.00 will be awarded to the winning artist. The winner will be announced on Sugar Day. All entries will be on display in the Exhibit Room through the month of November.

Live music will be featured throughout the day. Headlining the musical entertainment will be Hadley J. Castille and the Sharecropper Cajun Band. Castille is a veteran Cajun fiddler who has been both an ambassador for Cajun music around the world and a strong supporter of efforts in South Louisiana to preserve the Cajun language and culture. He is the recipient of numerous musical awards. Castille, his son Blake and his granddaughter Sara Jayde Williams will perform at 10:00 a.m. and again at 2:00 p.m. D. C. Sills, local musician/songwriter and other musicians will also be performing during the daylong festival.

Craft demonstrations from throughout Louisiana will include basket making, woodworking, duck carving, blacksmithing, spinning, weaving, quilting, cornhusk crafts, and flint napping. Some of the demonstrators will be selling their crafts and the Kent House Gift Shop will be open featuring historic and regional books, cards, toys, syrup, jams and jellies, and a variety of other items. Additionally, costumed docents will be churning butter, making soap and candles, and cooking in the open-hearth kitchen.

Special children’s activities, some traditional and some new, will be offered throughout the day. Tours of the House will be offered free of charge but admission tickets will be necessary. Additionally, visitors will be able to choose from among tamales, jambalaya, gumbo, meat and crawfish pies and hot dogs. Desserts include funnel cakes and delicious homemade cakes and cookies.

To condense the long open-kettle sugar making process, the demonstration at Kent House begins with cane juice already reduced to syrup. Cane syrup from David Stewart of Alma Plantation in Lakeland, Louisiana will fill ‘la batterie’, the fourth and smallest of the traditional kettles in which the sugar cooking was finished. Volunteers will spend the day minding the fire and stirring the syrup. This year, local celebrities and dignitaries will help stir with long handled paddles while standing on top of the mill.

Commercial sugar making in Louisiana dates officially to 1795. Though primarily a cotton plantation in its heyday, Kent Plantation grew and processed some sugarcane for its own use. The re-creation of today’s 1840s-style open kettle sugar mill at Kent House dates back to 1994. A ten-year project, the Kent House sugar mill began with the 1982 donation of sugar kettles from Augusta Plantation by descendants of Dr. William Haas, and a gift from Mr. and Mrs. Franklin H. Mikell.

Kent Plantation House, the oldest standing structure in Central Louisiana, dates back almost as far as commercial sugar production in Louisiana. Its mission as a historic site and museum is to interpret the history of Central Louisiana between 1795 and 1855.

For more information about Kent Plantation House Sugar Day 2009, call 318-487-5998.

Autumn has arrived in North Louisiana - The State Fair of Louisiana opens today

Autumn ushers in crisp cool weather. It is the time of year that beckons you outside. It's the time of year to grab your family, friends and neighbors and head on out to the State Fair of Louisiana. Once there you will hear children shrieking with pleasure, smell the aroma of corn dogs, sausage rolls and funnel cakes, and see the flashing lights of the carnival rides. It is the time of year meant for having fun and making memories.

This year the State Fair of Louisiana will run from October 22-November 8 at the Fairgrounds in Shreveport, Louisiana. There are plenty of things for everyone to enjoy form food, carnival rides, exhibits, concerts, livestock shows and more.

Make memories that will last a lifetime at the Louisiana State Fair in Shreveport, Louisiana.

Gate admission is $8.00; Pay-one-price is $28.00; Parking is $5.00. The hours are Wednesday-Thursday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m.-11 p.m. ; Sunday from 10 a.m. - 10 p.m. and closed on Monday and Tuesday.

________________________________________________

Opening Day Special - Dollar Day
Official Opening Day: Thursday, Oct. 22
10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.: Free Parking & Admission
3:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.: $1 Parking/Admission/Rides*
Even Many Food Items will be sold for $1!
Sponsored by:
Kilpatrick Rose-Neath
* Opening Day $1 Special applies to Bill Lowery Carnival rides only.

_________________________________________________

Free Till 3
Wednesday, Thursday and Friday the Fair will open at 10:00 AM but there will be no charge for parking or gate admission until 3:00 PM. Armbands to ride unlimited Lowery Carnival rides are $10 from 10:00 AM until 3:00 PM. Special $10 armbands are not accepted at rides after 3:00 PM. Join us for lunch Wednesday-Friday and see what the Fair has to offer.
Sponsored by: KTBS 3

_____________________________________________________

Hispanic Heritage Day
Sunday, November 8
We invite our Hispanic community to celebrate at the State Fair
Great Hispanic Music and Food
Sponsored by: Nicky's and Invasora 92.1 FM

_________________________________________________________

State Fair Entertainment

October 23, Doors: 6:30 PM, State Fair PRCA Championship Rodeo
October 24, Doors: 6:30 PM, State Fair PRCA Championship Rodeo
October 25, 5:00 PM, Gran Jaripeo Baile Gran Jaripeo Baile
October 31, 7:30 PM, Doors: 6:00 PM, State Fair Championship Demolition Derby & Monster Truck Exhibition
November 7, 12:00 Noon, State Fair of Louisiana Baton and Dance Line Competition
November 8, All Day, State Fair of Louisiana State Cheerleading Championship hosted by Spirit Celebration

___________________________________________________

Musical Entertainment

October 22, 6:00, 7:00, 8:00, 3 Chord Truth
October 23, 6:00, 7:00, 8:00, LA Outlaws
October 24, 11:00 - 5:00 P.M., 11th Annual Gospel Music Celebration
October 24, 7:00 PM and 9:00 PM, Wayne Toups & Zydecajun

October 25, 3:30 PM, Dixie Tradition
October 25, 6:00 PM, James Otto
October 28, 6:00, 7:00, 8:00, Blues Express
October 29, 6:00, 7:00, 8:00, Anxious

October 30, 8:30 PM, Randy Rogers Band
October 31, 12:00 noon - 5:00 PM, 2008 Gospel Mega Fest
October 31, 8:00 PM, Cowboy Mouth
November 1, 2:00, Hand II Heart Puppet Show
November 1, 6:00, Bar-Kays

November 4, 7:00, 8:30, Windstorm & Their Tribute To Michael Jackson
November 5, 6:00, 7:00, 8:00, Homemade Jam
November 6, 7:00 PM and 9:00 PM, The Ultimate Eagles Experience - 7 Bridges Band
November 7, 12:00 Noon Bayou State Arm Wrestling Championship
November 7, 7:00, 9:00, John Conlee
November 8, 2:00 PM, Hispanic Heritage Day

Source of times and events From the website of The State Fair of Louisiana
For more information on detailed events and specials visit The State Fair of Louisiana Website.

Halloween Events in Natchitoches

Natchitoches Relives Cities'
Haunted History

Haunted History Tour Scheduled for October 31

The Natchitoches Historic Foundation hosts a guided night stroll through the American Cemetery during its annual Haunted History Tour held October 31 from 5-9 p.m. The tour will feature live portrayals of area personalities buried in the historic cemetery.

American Cemetery is the oldest cemetery in the Louisiana Purchase with graves dating to the early 1700s. The sacred grounds of the cemetery are the final resting places of immigrants, politicians, judges, doctors, war heroes, villains and educators. Buried with these people are wonderful stories of determination, betrayal, love, laughter and death that rival the best books and movies.

Some of the highlights of the tour include a visit from the front street ghost U.S. General Napoleon McLaughlin, the tale of the tragedy of the L’Herrison Family and a greeting from Isabella, the ghost of NSU’s Normal Hill.

Prior to the tour, Spirit Hunters Paranormal Investigators will conduct an investigation of paranormal activity at Chez de Amis Bed and Breakfast and the Cunningham Law Office. They will reveal their results during the tour.

Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students and children and can be purchased at the Natchitoches Information Center, 781 Front Street or at the American Cemetery during the tour. Transportation will be provided to the tour sites and tickets will also be available at those locations. For more information, including the tour’s cast of characters, visit www.historicfoundation.org.

For more information on events in the parish, contact the Natchitoches Area Convention & Visitors Bureau at 800-259-1714 or visit www.natchitoches.net.

Source and Photo Credit: Natchitoches Area Convention & Visitors Bureau

____________________________________________________________

Natchitoches to sponsor ‘Witch Way to Main Street’

The City of Natchitoches Main Street Program in partnership with Northwestern State University Order of Omega will sponsor Witch Way to Main Street in downtown Natchitoches on Saturday, Oct. 31 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Children 12 years old and under will be allowed to trick-or-treat at participating downtown shops. Area organizations and businesses will also have booths set up along Front Street distributing candy and offering carnival type games and activities. Children must be in costume and accompanied by an adult to participate. Candy will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

Activities that evening include visits with Sparky the Fire Dog, the Natchitoches Police Department, Cane River Water Way Commission and Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office. Other activities include face painting, a tour of the “haunted” Natchitoches Parish Library bookmobile, interactive simulation in the fire safety training trailer, a haunted house and Boogie on the Bricks for kids – a street dance for children featuring Halloween music. Refreshments will also be available while supplies last.

Order of Omega is comprised of representatives from Greek organizations at NSU. Order of Omega games and activities will take place on the south end of Front Street and an armband is required for this area. An armband can be purchased for $1 or by bringing 2 can good items to the event. Order of Omega activities include a cake walk, baseball throw, bean bag toss, duck pond, balloon darts and much more.

Natchitoches police officers will be on duty to ensure children’s safety. Front Street will be shut down from the Touline to Lafayette Street, beginning at 4 p.m. A portion of the downtown riverbank will close at 1 p.m. on Saturday.

The Natchitoches Police Department is encouraging families who will be trick-or-treating in their neighborhoods to do so before dark. The Police Department asks for all children to be monitored by an adult and use caution when crossing roadways. Parents should also check all Halloween candy before consumption.

For more information about Witch Way to Main Street, please call the Main Street Office at 318-352-2746 or the Office of Greek Life at 318-357-5439.

In conjunction with Witch Way to Main Street, the Christian Worship Center will sponsor their annual “Hallelujah Night” on Saturday, October 31 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. on the downtown riverbank. Activities include games, food, candy, costume contests, a dunking booth and more. For more information, please call 352-4593.

Source and photo credit: City of Natchitoches

Shreveport Farmers' Fall Market
October 24 through November 21, 2009
8 a.m. until Noon

For the Fall Market, vendors will be selling:
Fruits and Veggies, including:
Satsuma Oranges *
Squash
Greens of all sort, including some organic
Fall Tomatoes
Frozen Summer Veggies & Fruits
Pumpkins
Sweet Potatoes
... and much more.

Beef, Shrimp, Smoked Meats *, Artisan Cheeses *, Barbecue, Frozen Gumbo *, Pot Pies *, Beans & Rice, Jambalaya, Dirty Rice, Tamales, and delicious treats to devour on-site.

Jams, jellies, preserves, canned fruits & vegetables, pickles, salsas, mustard, and oils.

Baked goods from fresh bread to cakes, pies, and cookies.

Locally-roasted coffees, homemade granola, nuts, pralines, spices and rubs*.

Plants, soaps and herbal products.

Bonsai trees, solar lighting*, and more.

( * denotes new items.)

Support our local economy and support local farmers, artists, crafters and artisans.

Shreveport Farmers' Market is located at 101 Crockett Street, in Downtown Shreveport, Louisiana under the pavilion in Festival Plaza.

For more information, please call 318-455-5788 or email farmersmarket@redriverrevel.com.

Source: Shreveport Farmer's Market from Facebook

Things to do in Alexandria, Louisiana

FALL FEST ANTIQUE SHOW is scheduled for October 16 & 17, 2009 at the Jena Fair Grounds just off Hwy 84 next to Walmart in Jena, LA. Friday, Oct 16 will be a set up/swap meet day. Saturday, October 17 starting at 8 am will be the day of entertainment – Tractor Pulls, Antique tractors, car/trucks, hit & miss motors, and all type of heritage displays. Games for all ages, Kids tractor pull, Kids barrel race, grass sack race, adult tractor games, women skillet toss and much more. Live music all day with group jam sessions. Arts & Crafts booths. Don’t miss out - . Free Admission. For more information you may call 318-992-2206.
__________________________________________________________________

FALL ARTWALK: 5 – 8pm, Friday, October 16, 2009, Downtown Alexandria. The Artwalk is a free, family-oriented walking tour that features visual art and live entertainment. Downtown sidewalks, green spaces, and the alleys will come alive as local artists display and demonstrate their works of art. Artists will have booths set up in the Alexander Fulton Mini-Park. Qualifying items may be purchased free of tax. Visitors can tour our various museums, studios, and galleries to view exciting exhibits and live music within a few city blocks. Johnny Earthquake and the Moondogs will play on the steps of City Hall. For more information, please call the Division of Community Services at (318) 449-5051 or the Arts Council at (318) 443-4718.
__________________________________________________________________

Don't Miss...
A progressive Gypsy Jazz band from Buffalo, NY inspired by the legendary guitarist Django Reinhardt. Babik has the ability to bridge passionate jaw-dropping virtuosity, with a rare toe-tapping danceability that keeps its audiences enthusiastically engaged.

Sunday, October 18, 2009
3 pm
Jewish Temple, 2021 Turner St.
Free & Open to the Public
For info., call 445-3655

Sponsored by the Bindursky-Fuhrer Cultural Fund
A program of the Rapides Parish Library Big Read

FREE concert at the Jewish Temple this coming Sunday, October 18 at 3 pm ., 2021 Turner St.
There is no charge.
It is open to the public and there will be a reception with food and a chance to meet the performers afterwards.
If someone plays guitar, this concert is not to be missed.
__________________________________________________________________

City Park Players presents BlackJack : A Thief of Possession, October 15 -18 at the Hearn Stage in downtown Alexandria, LA.
Performances are scheduled Thursday – Saturday Evenings at 7:30 and on Sundays at 2:30 in the afternoon.

Black Jack is a play by Rosary Hartel O’Neill, directed by Dan Forest. It follows an eccentric New Orleans family as it is squeezed into the close quarters of a Mississippi Riverboat cruise for the New Year’s holiday. Irene, the matriarch of the family, suspects a rift in her estranged daughter's second marriage. Her Latin assistant sets her sights on the grandson, a successful rock star. Kaitlyn, the daughter, is convinced that she is channeling the poet Baudelaire, and certain that her husband, Beau, a brilliant novelist, is having an affair with a larger-than-life character, Rory DeBango. Everyone dons costumes for a New Year's Eve Party, casting off their old identities. As fireworks explode, cracks are revealed in the family’s façade and ugly truths belie frivolity.

Theresa Louviere is the wealthy New Orleans Garden District matriarch, Irene Soniat DuBonnet. Her daughter, Kaitlyn Dubonnet Ellis, is portrayed by Kim Patton. Beau Ellis is played by Casey Scarbrock and Susan Hathorn is Rory DeBango. Bunky Dubonnet Legere is played by Danny Higdon with Christal Workman as Luisa.

In the continuation of our Community Connections initiative we salute Central Louisiana Arts & Healthcare, a not for profit organization whose mission is to bring innovative arts experiences into healthcare settings. They work to enhance the environment of hospitals and healthcare facilities by providing public performances in lobbies and waiting areas, rotating art galleries, and in-room healing arts experiences for patients and families. We invite you to view the "Chairs For Charity" exhibit on display in the lobby of The Hearn Stage. Twelve chairs creatively decorated and painted by Studio Artists at Ethel Dixon's Studio are being auctioned (final bidding takes place Oct. 16). Proceeds will go to help Central Louisiana Arts & Healthcare continue its healing arts programs.

Reservations are urged. Tickets are available for purchase at the box office before the show. Ticket prices: Adults $12 – Seniors (over 65) $10 - Students $5. The Hearn Stage is located at 3rd & Johnston in Downtown Alexandria in the Rapides Foundation Bldg. Discounted group ticket sales are available. Please contact City Park Players at (318) 442-1800 or email cityparkplayers@gmail.com. Our blog is also a good source of information. http://cpptheatre.blogspot.com

A premiere community theatre, City Park Players is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization committed to offering quality cultural activities and experiences to the entire Central Louisiana community through live theatre productions, programming, and education. City Park Players’ programs are supported, in part, by grants from the Louisiana Division of the Arts and the Roy O. Martin Foundation as administered by the Arts Council of Central Louisiana.

Additional support comes from our patrons and donors and people like you who believe that community theatre enriches our lives and enhances our quality of life.
_________________________________________________________________


FALL ARTWALK TO BE HELD IN DOWNTOWN ALEXANDRIA OCTOBER 16

The City of Alexandria along with the Arts Council of Central Louisiana will host the Fall Artwalk on October 16, 2009 from 5:00-8:00 pm.

The Artwalk is a free, family-oriented walking tour that features visual art and live entertainment. Downtown sidewalks, green spaces, and the alleys will come alive as local artists display and demonstrate their works of art. Artists will have booths set up in the Alexander Fulton Mini-Park. Qualifying items may be purchased free of tax.

Visitors can tour our various museums, studios, and galleries to view exciting exhibits and live music within a few city blocks. Johnny Earthquake and the Moondogs will play on the steps of City Hall.

Local businesses open for Artwalk include: Alexandria Museum of Art, River Oaks Square Arts Center, Finnegan’s Wake, Diamond Grill, Emmanuel Baptist Church Art Gallery, T.R.E.E House Children’s Museum, and many, many more. Also, students from Bolton High School will take over downtown sidewalks as a canvas for their chalk art.

For more information on the artwalk, please call (318) 449-5051.

Participants Sought for Downtown Zombie Walk

Boils and Ghouls! The shambling horde invites you to participate in the 1st Zombie Walk. The Walk is scheduled to begin at 5:30 p.m. on October 28, 2009.

Ghouls wishing to partake in this historic event will bring three non-perishable can food items to the event and together the horde will march from Front Street to the NSU campus. Face painting and candy will be available for children and a night of fun frights is in store for Natchitoches. All food items will be donated to a local food drive just in time for the Thanksgiving Holiday.

This charitable event is presented by Southern Gothic, a registered NSU student organization.

For more information on the Zombie Walk call 601-529-0273 or the faculty advisor at 318-357-6931.

For more information on other events in Natchitoches Parish contact the Convention & Visitors Bureau at 800-259-1714 or visit www.natchitoches.net.

Looking for something fun...head to Monroe-West Monroe

Hoe culture in the South, farm hand near Birmingham, AL, June 1936, Vintage silver print; Dorothea Lange

Artists of the Great Depression, now through November 7 at Masur Museum of Art, Tuesday-Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday, noon to 5 p.m. Admission is free. Exhibition includes Depression era artists. View paintings, prints and photographs. Includes artists Thomas Hart Benton, Dorothea Lange, John McCrady and many others. 318-329-2237 or www.masurmuseum.org
Other events at Masur Museum

Brown Bag Concert Series with Doug Duffey, October 7 at 12:00 p.m. at the Anna Gray Noe Park, 251 Oak Street, Monroe. Enjoy a free concert every Wednesday in October sponsored by Northeast Louisiana Arts Council. Bring a sack lunch and some friends. Some seating is provided; picnic blankets and lawn chairs are welcome. 318-396-9520

Community Days: Woods, Woodworking, & Tools, October 10 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Starr Homeplace Heritage and Creativity Cener in Oak Ridge. Starr Homeplace boosts seven museums along with a working quilting room, woodworking shop, blacksmith, and 50’s cottage. Great for a family outing! A program is provided along with the noon meal. $5 entry fee; $8 for community meal. Starr Homeplace Heritage & Creativity Center, LA 133/US 425, Oak Ridge 318-244-5700 or 318-651-8311

Louisiana Art & Folk Festival, October 10, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Main Street in Columbia. Festival includes fine art exhibits and demonstrations, music, children's fun, arts and crafts, food and more. Cost is $3; children 3-12, $1, 318-649-0726

Children's Drop-In: Grown Your Own Greens, October 10, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Biedenharn Museum & Gardens in Monroe. Cost is $5. Learn how to grow your own vegetables! Handouts will be available with fun ideas focusing on gardening all year around. When the activity is finished, families are welcome to walk through ELsong Garden, tour the home, and enjoy a nickel Coca-Cola. 318-387-5281 or www.bmuseum.org

Walking Tour of the Henry Bry Historic District, October 10 at 2 p.m. Masur Museum of Art in Monroe. Cost is $25. The Cooley House Foundation will present a walking tour of the Henry Bry Historic District led by architect F. Lestar Martin. Today, the houses in this district represent 200 years of architectural styles. Space is limited. 318-329-2237

Solo Exhibition by Michael Stillion, October 11-November 24, Monday-Thursday 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Friday 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Free. ULM – Bry Art Gallery, Monroe 318-342-1414 or www.ulm.edu/vapa

Greg Biolchini Workshop, October 12-16, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. at Kiroli Park Lodge, West Monroe.The gallery has scheduled internationally known artist, Greg Biolchini to instruct a pastel workshop. The focus is learning the specific approach to painting in pastel. Whether you are a beginner or accomplished artist, you will enjoy this one-on-one experience. Biolchini’s work is on his web site, www.biolchini.com. Class size is limited. Cost is $400. 318-322-2380 or www.orag.org

Col. John Reitzell Speaking at Chennault Aviation and Military Museum, Monroe, October 13 at 6 p.m. Reitzell served 28 years in the Army and is in the 509th Parachute Infantry’s Hall of Fame. The public is encouraged to attend. 318-362-5540

Artist Talk with Doyle Jeter, October 13 at 6:30 p.m. Doyle Jeter is founder of Enoch’s Irish Pub, the Eye-20 Group, the 10/20/40 Group, and the Northeast Louisiana Celtic Festival. He has a master’s degree in printmaking from New Mexico Highlands University. His work can be found in private and public collections, including the Museum of Fine Arts in Santa Fe, New Mexico. This event is Free. Masur Museum of Art, Lower River Gallery, Monroe 318-329-2237 or www.masurmuseum.org

Tales and Trails in , October 15, 9:30 – 11:00 a.m. at Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge in Monroe. Program is for children ages 3 to 5 years of age. The day includes a snack, story time and making crafts, as well as some outdoor activities. Tales and Trails is free but children must be registered to attend. Call 318-387-1114 to register.

Outdoor Concert: Strike up the Band, October 15, 7:00 p.m. at the Biedenharn Museum & Gardens – Elsong Garden in Monroe. Corey Trahan with Tynan Davis and Cathy Venable will present a theatrically enhanced presentation of popular music from the 1929-39 era of American History. Gershwin’s Summertime, Porter’s It’s De’Lovely, showstoppers from Rodger’s Oklahoma, Kern’s Showboat and a patriotic tribute composed by Irving Berlin are a few of the selections that will be featured – all under the skies of ELsong Garden. The concert is $15. Call 318-387-5281 or visit www.bmuseum.org.

US Hwy 80 Sale, October 16-18, 8:00 a.m. daily. Bargain hunters and shopaholics, travel to one of the longest sales scattered over a three state area. Shop along historic Hwy 80. The sale covers 392 miles from Mesquite, Texas through Louisiana to Jackson, Mississippi. For more information visit www.easttexasguide.com.

3rd Annual Fall Fest & Antique Show, October 17, 9:00 a.m. Jena Fair Barn, Jena, Louisiana. A day of fun with tractor pulls and games for all ages. See antique tractors, cars and trucks. Admission is free. Enjoy live music and jam sessions. For more information call 318-992-2206

19th Annual St. Patrick’s Herbal Harvest, October 17 from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. at St. Patrick’s Episcopal Church, 1712 Wellerman Road, West Monroe. Plants and herbs, original arts and crafts, jewelry, children's clothes and garden accessories. Sausage, soup and jellies also available. Free to attend. 318-396-1341.

Annual Fall Celebration at Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge, Monroe, October 17 from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Fun for the entire family with outdoor activities including guided nature walks, face painting, live exhibits, and more. Free. 318-387-1114

Ouachita River Arts Gallery Exhibit, October 17-November 1, 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Monday-Saturday; 2:00 – 5:00 p.m. Sunday, The Biedenharn Museum & Gardens hosts works of art by the members of the Ouachita River Arts Gallery in the Fountain Room. This event is free. 318-387-5281 or www.bmuseum.org

Container Gardens featuring Ashley Higginbotham, October 20 from 12:00–5:30 p.m.
Ashley Higginbotham offers tips on planting terrariums, Wardian cases and tabletop gardens. Seating is limited. Advance reservations may be made in the Museum Store with payment of $10. This event takes place in the Education Building of the Biedenharn Museum & Gardens in Monroe. 318-387-5281 or www.bmuseum.org.

The 5th Annual March of Dimes Gourmet Gala, October 20, 6:00 p.m. at the West Monroe Convention Center in West Monroe. This event is held to raise money and support for the March of Dimes. Their mission is to reduce birth defects, premature births and infant mortality. Area chefs offer samples of their signature dishes. The evening also features live and silent auctions of trips, dining experiences and other items. Cost is $75; Corporate Tables available for $500; West Monroe Convention Center, West Monroe 318-387-3650

“Cowboy-Up” Western Celebration, October 21 at 11:30 a.m. at the West Ouachita Senior Center, Monroe. Participation for seniors 60 years and older. Free to attend. 318-323-5700 or www.wmcd.org

Brown Bag Concert Series with Mairtin de Cogain, October 21 at 12:00 p.m. Visit Northeast Louisiana Arts Council's outdoor concert series at Anna Gray Noe Park, 251 Oak Street, Monroe. Bring a sack lunch, a blanket and friends and enjoy a free concert. 318-396-9520.

Earth Oven Demonstration at Poverty Point State Historic Site, October 24 from 10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. A site ranger will be conducting demonstrations of this unique cooking method. $2; Children (12 and under) and Seniors (62 and older) Free. Poverty Point State Historic Site, Epps 318-926-5492 or 888-926-5492

Northeast Louisiana Celtic Festival, October 24 & 25, 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. daily at Ike Hamilton Expo Center, West Monroe. The festival honors the rich Celtic heritage of Northeast Louisiana. Performances from Grammy-nominated Trout Fishing in America and some of Ireland’s most famous bands. Fun for the entire family! www.nelacelticfest.net

Brown Bag Concert Series with Rod Payne and Lisa Spann, October 28 at 12:00 p.m. at Anna Gray Noe Park, 251 Oak Street, Monroe. Brought to you by the Northeast Louisiana Arts Council’s outdoor concert series. Picnic blankets and lawn chairs are welcome. Bring your sack lunch and a bunch of friends. 318-396-9520

Bingo Bash, at the West Ouachita Senior Center, Monroe October 30 at 10:00 a.m. Participation for seniors 60 years and older. Free to attend. 318-323-5700 or www.wmcd.org

Wild Friday: Campfire Stories, October 30 at 6:30 p.m. at the Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge–Amphitheater, Monroe. A tradition at Black Bayou Lake is sharing stories around the campfire. Come take part and bring the entire family. Cost is free. 318-387-1114

Boo at the Zoo, October 31 at 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. at Louisiana Purchase Gardens & Zoo,
Monroe. Costume contests, games and activities and candy! A day of family fun and games. Cost is $5. 318-329-2138 or www.monroezoo.com.

Faustwork Mask Theatre, October 31 from 3–5:00 p.m. at the West Monroe Convention Center, West Monroe. Robert Faust will appear with the Monroe Symphony Orchestra to create a unique synthesis of theatre, physical comedy, music, dance, and poetry. Enjoy an afternoon of entertainment suitable for the entire family. Children are invited to come in costume. $15; $5 for students. 318-812-6761 or www.monroesymphonyorchestra.com


Source: Monroe-West Monroe Convention and Visitors Bureau

Cane River Green Market to host Fall Harvest markets

The Cane River Green Market will hold special “Fall Harvest” markets on Oct. 10 and Oct. 31, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the downtown riverbank.

Besides fresh fruits, vegetables and plants, customers can choose from a selection of “value-added products” including farm fresh eggs, homemade breads, jams, jellies, pickles, honey and much more.

Craft vendors will also be on site with hand-made crafts such as woodwork, artwork, jewelry, stained glass, soaps, pottery, furniture and more.

On Oct. 10, enjoy live music by The Back Porch Band from 10 a.m. to noon. The band primarily plays traditional ballads, folk and Celtic music. Band members play many instruments including violins, dulcimers, cello, harp, wash boards and Irish whistles.

WesMar Farms will be onsite with their goat milk products including milk, cheeses and soaps. Don’t miss your opportunity for smoked boudain, hot tamales and pork steaks from Uncle Waine’s BBQ. The Natchitoches Master Gardeners will also be vendors at the Oct. 10 market selling a variety of plants.

Patrons can enjoy live music, complimentary coffee and free "Louisiana Cooking" magazines while supplies last. There will be fun for the kids as well. Children can enjoy fall craft projects and there will also be fall decorations on the riverbank, making the perfect setting for fall family pictures.

For more information about the market, please call the Cane River Green Market (318) 352-CRGM or visit the web site at www.canerivergreenmarket.com.



Source & Photo Credit: City of Natchitoches

_____________________________________________________________________________________

Christmas Festival accepting entries for Lighted Boat Parade

The Natchitoches Christmas Festival is now accepting applications for the 2009 Christmas Festival Lighted Boat Parade.

The Lighted Boat Parade, which is the first major event of the 2009 Christmas Festival, will take place on Friday, December 4 at 6 p.m. on Cane River Lake in downtown Natchitoches. Barges, boats, canoes, virtually anything that floats safely can enter. There is no entry fee; however, every entry must have lights.

First place will receive $250, second place receives $150 and third place receives $100. Additionally, the Cane River Waterway Commission is offering a $200 safety award to the entry that exhibits the best water safety features. Miss Merry Christmas and the Christmas Belles are the parade’s official judges.

This event has become one of the most popular events of the Festival season. This year it has been expanded to make it an even greater spectacle and to offer the opportunity for everyone to become a part of the fun of the Festival. The sight of brightly decorated vessels floating up and down Cane River adds greatly to the atmosphere of Festival weekend.

To enter the barge parade, or for more information, call Lori Tate at 318-357-8744.


For more information about the Festival or Natchitoches, call Natchitoches Area Chamber of Commerce at (318) 352-6894 or the Natchitoches Area Convention & Visitors Bureau at 800-259-1714. For more information on the Christmas Festival, visit www.christmasfestival.com.

Source: Natchitoches Area Convention & Visitors Bureau