Panel to discuss Edwards

NEW ORLEANS –As voters approach the polls this fall, a new initiative will offer Louisianans a fresh look at the state’s political history — and a means of comparison as they choose the next governor. Produced by the Louisiana Endowment for Humanities, “The Louisiana Governors Project: A Historic Job Description” will offer new insights into the last 50 years of Louisiana politics through seven public forums held in hometowns of the previous seven governors.
The seven-parish tour will stop in Crowley at the Rice Theater at 5:30 p.m. today for a discussion of Gov. Edwin Edwards. Panelists include Isabella de la Houssaye, Leo Honeycutt, Raymond Jetson, Ted Jones, Michael Martin and Gus Weill. Beth Courtney of Louisiana Public Broadcasting will moderate. The event is free and open to the public. A reception at 5:30 p.m. at Crowley’s City Hall precedes the 6 p.m. conversation.
“For the next two months, we’ll campaign for the importance of Louisiana history,” said LEH VP of Content Brian Boyles. “We believe that new insights into the lives and legacies of the individuals who led this state through its modern evolution will be invaluable for our fellow citizens as we face important decisions this fall. Governor Edwards is vital to this history.”
The conversation will center on key challenges faced by Louisiana governors, including economic development, race relations and natural disasters.
The fall issue of Louisiana Cultural Vistas, the council’s quarterly magazine, will serve as a companion to the project. Louisiana writers and photographers will explore central issues faced by leaders and citizens over the last half-century.
The remainder of the schedule includes:
Dave Treen-Sept. 24
Louisiana Humanities Center in New Orleans
Buddy Roemer-Oct. 1
Bossier Parish Community College
Mike Foster-Oct. 8
Teche Theater in Franklin
Kathleen Blanco-Oct. 15
Sliman Theater in New Iberia
Bobby Jindal-Oct. 22
Old State Capitol Museum in Baton Rouge
For more information, contact LEH VP of Content Brian Boyles at 504-602-2632 or boyles@leh.org.
The Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing educational opportunities to all residents of the state.