Famous kids

There is nothing quite like the feeling you get when someone comes up to you and says, "I enjoy your columns." Unlike a political opinion piece, a personal column is the wrtier's opportunity to share his or her own thoughts and/or experiences.

In one such column, I shared the story of my oldest son's affection for Barney the Purple Dinosaur. Later, a person came up to me in Shreveport Regional Airport and said, "Aren't you the person who writes for the newspaper? I loved your article about Barney. My kids are the same way."

Well, now my son who loved Barney is 13 years old and is writing his own columns for the newspaper. It seems he has developed quite a following. Everywhere we go in our hometown of Minden, people stop him and say "I like your columns." or "How's the golf coming,?" referring to one of his favorite column subjects.

He is learning first-hand the impact of a community newspaper. I hope he doesn't take himself too seriously. I think he's got a good head on his shoulders, so he should be fine.

I look forward to each installment... and you can too -- just click this link.

ZACHARY'S COLUMN

May the Blog Be With You.

Good to be home

For the past 8+ days, my family and I have traveled to North Carolina and back. The "adventure" lived up to its billing in every sense of the word.

We drove, camped, whitewater rafted, took lots of photos, drove some more, ate even more, explored, toured, golfed and slept. (Not necessarily in that order)

I learned what the right demographics can do for a local economy. I also learned what it feels like to be a "red" guy in a "blue" state.

In all, the entire family enjoyed the outing and I'm sure my oldest son will be writing all about it in his Minden Press-Herald column.

With all the fun, there was a great sense of excitement when we pass through Junction City, Ark. and back into Louisiana. This state is our home, plain and simple.

It was fun to vacation, but it is even better to be home.

May the Blog Be With You.