Catching beads and bass

We had a lot of things to do this weekend in Shreveport — Mardi Gras parades and Bassmaster events — and what fun it was. 

For the second consecutive weekend, my friends and I set up camp on East Kings Highway. The afternoon weather was dreary and cold, but once the sun peeked through the clouds, people rolled out in droves for the parade. 

The lots on East Kings are earned through a lottery. If someone gives up their lot, SPAR draws names to see who will gain the spot. We were fortunate enough to land a lot both weeks, and the lot for Gemini couldn't have been better. We were right next to a karaoke tent, which meant we were entertained for hours and we got to sing a few songs of our own.

The entire day was a blast, and I'm already looking forward to next year. 

While many people watched the Oscars on Sunday night, I found something more entertaining to watch. To my own surprise, it was the coverage of the final day of the Bassmaster. Going into the show, I couldn't think of anything less entertaining than watching someone else fish. But, it really was so interesting and the hour-long coverage moved along quickly. The top two competitors were so animated, you couldn't help but be amused. 

The coverage put Shreveport-Bossier City in a very positive light. The commentators said the Ark-La-Tex was one of the best locations so far, mostly because of the area's people. I can't promise I'll watch the Bassmaster again. But for one night, I was hooked.