Shreveport - Bossier, Louisiana's Other Side

Farmers Insurance Group Sponsors SWAC Basketball Tournament at CenturyTel Center

BIRMINGHAM, AL (February 2, 2010) The Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) Basketball Tournament has spent the last few years in Birmingham, AL, at the Fair Park Arena, and is now making its debut in Shreveport-Bossier City, LA, at the CenturyTel Center Wednesday through Saturday, March 10-13, 2010. Farmers Insurance Group is the title sponsor for the tournament and continually reaches out to support students and communities.

The tournament is made up of 16 teams from SWAC’s 10 member institutions—Alabama A&M, Alabama State, Alcorn State, University of Arkansas-Pine Bluff, Grambling State, Jackson State, Mississippi Valley State, Prairie View A&M, Southern University and Texas Southern. The top eight teams from the men and women’s regular season meet in single-elimination action with the championship games culminating on Saturday, March 13, 2010 live on ESPNU. The men’s and women’s tournament winner will receive the Conference’s Automatic Qualifier and participate in the 2010 NCAA Men’s and Women’s Basketball Tournament. 

“We are excited about this move,” says Duer Sharp, Commissioner of SWAC. “The SWAC Basketball Tournament will now be in a centrally located area with just a five hour drive for most schools. We want the fans, alumni and students to really get involved this year and not only support the tournament, but the city of Shreveport-Bossier as well.”

“I’m excited to welcome fans to a family friendly community that is committed to making the SWAC Men and Women’s Basketball Tournament a success,” says Stacy Brown, President of the Shreveport-Bossier Convention and Tourist Bureau. “The diversity of our region offers a wide array of exciting hotels, attractions, restaurants, historic sites, shops and outdoor recreational activities, so there’s something for everyone.”

Family activities include The Louisiana Boardwalk on the Red River in Bossier City with more than 60 outlet stores and restaurants; the Barksdale Air Force Base, the world’s largest airfield of its time and a key player in today’s military; Southern University Museum of Art features more than 300 original pieces of African-American art; the Louisiana Audubon Golf Trail; Gators and Friends Alligator Park and Exotic Zoo; and the Red River District, featuring comedy shows, live music and food.


“Bossier City is glad to be the host city for the SWAC Men and Women’s Basketball Tournament,” said Mayor Lorenz Lo Walker, Bossier City Mayor. “We are always proud to bring new events to our city. This only adds to the great quality that we offer.”

“We are excited to partner with SWAC,” says Mayor Cedric B. Glover, Shreveport Mayor. “An opportunity to interact with each school and have not only a great tournament, but a great place for fans to visit is important. We know that our location plays a part in this tournament, and we are glad to be able to unite the schools and our communities together for this great event.”

The CenturyTel Center features 75 TV monitors in the concourse, seats approximately 8,000 fans and with a center hung video scoreboard, fans can experience the up close action of the game.

“This great event will only strengthen the relationship and commitment that we have for SWAC,” says Mary Ann Tice, Executive Director/CAO of the Shreveport Regional Sports Authority. “We are looking forward to this tournament and the excitement that the fans will experience.” 


For tickets and more information, visit www.swac.org.


About SWAC

SWAC, a historically black college athletic conference, is a Division 1 member of the NCAA and consists of 10 member institutions—Alabama A&M, Alabama State, Alcorn State, University of Arkansas-Pine Bluff, Grambling State, Jackson State, Mississippi Valley State, Prairie View A&M, Southern University and Texas Southern—across Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Arkansas and Texas. The purpose of SWAC is to encourage, promote, advance and conduct intercollegiate sports activities. Along with the basketball tournament, SWAC also holds tournaments and championships involving football, track and field, golf, softball, baseball among others.

About Shreveport-Bossier

Shreveport-Bossier City has over 300,000 residents and has a myriad of shopping, casinos, food and family activities. They call themselves “Louisiana’s Other Side” because of the mix of Texas character and Cajun flare. Among the entertainment available in the city, there are festivals, comedy shows, live theater and symphony performances, museums, historic churches, boardwalk shopping, gaming at casino

NEW DESIGN WOW’s GUESTS, FEATURES HIGH TECH GoBoard^TM, FLEXIBLE WORK AND SOCIAL SPACES AND 24/7 FOOD AND BEVERAGE

Bethesda, Md. – February 15, 2010 – Courtyard by Marriott is rolling out its new lobby and room design in Shreveport, LA.  This is the first Courtyard in the area featuring the “refreshing business” makeover.  The 90-room Shreveport Courtyard by Marriott located at 6001 Financial Plaza is owned by LJ Hotels, LLC and operated as an InterMountain Management, LLC managed hotel.

Courtyard by Marriott was the first lodging brand exclusively designed for business travel by business travelers.  And now it has completely redefined the hotel lobby experience.  This Marriott International (NYSE:MAR) “power brand” is fast-tracking its lobby makeover.  The rest of the world is also getting a chance to experience the new lobby by visiting www.gocourtyard.com – a highly interactive website.

“From day one, Courtyard has prided itself as a brand that listens to what business travelers want from a hotel,” said Brian King, vice president, Global Brand Manager, Courtyard by Marriott.   “Guests want more control and choice with services and amenities that create a healthy balance between working and relaxing. We redefined the Courtyard lobby so it invites guests to get out of their rooms to work, socialize or for entertainment, whether traveling alone or with colleagues.”

The open, bright and contemporary new Courtyard hotel lobby welcomes guests with vivid contrasting colors, including blue, green, orange and red.  The traditional front desk is replaced with separate welcome podiums to create more personal and private interactions when guests check in.  Flexible seating options range from a communal table in the middle of the action, to more private media booths with high-definition televisions, to a more intimate, semi-enclosed lounge area.

A signature element of the new lobby is the exclusive Courtyard GoBoard^TM, a 57-inch LCD touch screen packed with local information, maps, weather, and news, business  and sports headlines.  Guests can navigate using the touch screen to find restaurants, local attractions and directions.

Guests can connect to free WiFi and there are ample electrical outlets throughout the lobby to power digital devices.  The enlarged business library features several complimentary computer terminals along with a free printer and separate computer stations dedicated to printing airline boarding passes and checking flight status.

Dining has been completely redesigned with casual, flexible seating; easier access to food and higher quality, healthier menu options for breakfast; and light evening fare, including snacks, wine and beer so guests can unwind.  The Market^TM, a 24/7 shop for snacks, beverages and sundries, is always open for late night cravings or the toothpaste you forgot to pack.

Guests looking to take their minds off work can grab a snack, their favorite beverage and take a seat in front of the large high-definition television located in the lounge to watch a variety of programming, including top news, business, sports and entertainment channels.  They’ve added a welcoming outdoor element integrated into the lobby design that encourages guests to grab a beverage and get a breath of fresh air at the end of the day. Adding to the lobby ambiance, the new Courtyard soundtrack will change throughout the day from upbeat in the morning to more casual in the evening.

Guests walking into the lobby will immediately notice individual welcome podiums designed to create more personal interactions between staff and guests when checking in. Courtyard staff will be able to move about to show guests the lobby features and provide assistance.

Green has been Courtyard’s signature color since Marriott launched the brand more than 25 years ago.  Now it is even greener with the introduction of a guest recycling program for the environment. Receptacles for paper, glass, plastic and metal will be conveniently located by side exits.

The Courtyard Shreveport Airport is one of the first of the new lobby redesigns.  To take a video tour of our first lobby redesign click on the link. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8mB05QhrG2s.  For reservations or additional information, please visit their website at www.Marriott.com/SHVCY or call the hotel directly at 1-318-686-0880.

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Our statements about the number of, and particular hotels at which, we expect the new lobby to be introduced are "forward looking statements" within the meaning of federal securities laws.  These statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, including those described in Marriott International, Inc.'s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, which could cause the new lobby introduction dates or locations to be different than we anticipate.

About InterMountain Management, LLCAs one of North America’s leading hotel management and development companies, InterMountain Management, LLC specializes in the select service and extended stay hotel segments.  Over the last 25 years, InterMountain Management’s dedication to success is proven in the results as a hotel owner, management company, and hotel developer.  Their managed hotel owners have benefited from the development and management knowledge and experience gained from owning and operating our own hotel portfolio.  They currently own and/or manage over 65 premium branded hotels nationwide within Marriott and other leading hotel brand portfolios.  For more information or to view hotel locations across the U.S., please visit their website at www.intermtn.biz.

About Courtyard by Marriott
Courtyard by Marriott offers a refreshing environment that helps guests stay connected, productive and balanced.  Intuitive services and design accommodate guests’ needs for choice and control.  With more than 860 locations in 30 countries, Courtyard is Marriott’s largest brand; 200 additional Courtyard by Marriott hotels will open around the world over the next three years. All Courtyard by Marriott hotels participate in the award-winning Marriott Rewards frequent travel program that allows members to earn hotel points or airline miles for every dollar spent during each stay.  For more information go to www.courtyard.com

About Marriott International, Inc.
MARRIOTT INTERNATIONAL, INC. (NYSE:MAR) is a leading lodging company with about 3,000 lodging properties in the United States and 67 other countries and territories.  Marriott International operates and franchises hotels under the Marriott, JW Marriott, The Ritz-Carlton, Renaissance, Residence Inn, Courtyard, TownePlace Suites, Fairfield Inn, SpringHill Suites and Bulgari brand names; develops and operates vacation ownership resorts under the Marriott Vacation Club, Horizons, The Ritz-Carlton Club and Grand Residences by Marriott  brands; operates Marriott Executive Apartments; provides furnished corporate housing through its Marriott ExecuStay division; and operates conference centers.  The company is headquartered in Washington, D.C., and had approximately 151,000 employees at 2007 year-end.   It is ranked as the lodging industry’s most admired company and one of the best places to work by FORTUNE®.  The company is also a 2006 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) ENERGY STAR® Partner.   In fiscal year 2007, Marriott International, Inc. reported sales from continuing operations of $13 billion.  For more information or reservations, please visit our Web site at www.marriott.com.

One of Shreveport-Bossier’s major thoroughfares, Line Avenue, was just a dirt road when the Davis Homeplace (www.davishomeplace.org) was built back in 1916. Constructed of cypress wood, the home contained many “amenities” of the day – working transom windows, pocket doors, high ceilings and push-button lights.

The home is filled with furnishings from the estate of A. J. Ingersoll and Effie Dalzell Ingersol. “Cap’n Jack” Ingersoll was one of the South’s major cotton buyers. He was instrumental in Shreveport’s transition from a rough, riverfront trading post to a thriving city. Miss Effie’s father, Rev. Dalzell, was a medical doctor and another early Shreveport hero. During the yellow fever epidemic of 1873, he risked his own safety and chose to stay in the stricken city to help other patients rather than flee.

Rather than let history be buried in the trees and vines that covered the home when Terry and Marsha Gill purchased it in 2002, the couple decided to resurrect the home and preserve history. They have set about to lovingly restoring it. Visitors to the home are enchanted by the second floor sleeping porch and artifacts like Mary Montgomery Davis’ wedding dress, Cap’n Jack’s pocket watch, and Miss Effie’s opera glasses. The house and its contents offer visitors a peek back to scenes of yesteryear.

“If you don’t know where you’ve been, you don’t know where you’re going,” Marsha said. “It’s important to know what things were like, and you appreciate the way people lived then.”

She said, that helps you to be more grateful for the conveniences you have now.

When asked to name some of her favorite treasures in the home, she said, “That’s like asking which if your children you love more.” But she is especially proud of the 1937 Detroit jewel stove; 1897 Royal Bonn Jardinaire half tester east lake bed; 24-carat gold dishes that belonged to Ms. Elfie; and an 1890s doctor buggy.

The tour takes approximately one hour and it’s worth every minute.

Although the Davis Homeplace is a residential property, the Gills truly enjoy sharing their home and its history with the public. They offer tours of the property for a small maintenance fee of $10 per person. Groups of any size are accepted, but the owners graciously ask that you call at least 24 hours in advance. You can call Marsha Gill at 318-218-9506 or email marsha@davishomeplace.org to schedule your tour.

Spring break is right around the corner. It might mean a vacation from school and work, but it doesn’t have to mean a departure from fun.

So pack your bags and travel to Shreveport-Bossier: Louisiana’s Other Side, a family-friendly place suitable for kids big and small (that includes you, Mom and Dad). Shreveport-Bossier has lots of things to keep you occupied and spice up your family’s spring break vacation. Skip the dull getaways of the past and prepare for thrills, wonders, and good ole plain fun.

On a budget? No problem!  There are many free and inexpensive attractions and reasonably priced hotels in Shreveport-Bossier. The average daily hotel rate is just $70. To book a room today click here (www.shreveport-bossier.org)

For a free list of things to see and do click here (http://www.shreveportbossier.org/pdfs/brochures/FreeThingsToDo.pdf)

Here are some ideas for fun:

· Experience unexpected and unpredictable quality arts at Artspace at the West Edge (http://artspaceshreveport.com). Or just take a relaxing stroll while enjoying the beautiful flowers and lush landscape of the Gardens of the American Rose Center (http://www.ars.org/) or art and gardens at R.W. Norton Art Gallery (http://www.rwnaf.org).

· Art Affaire in the Garden, March 20, will be held at the Barnwell Garden & Art Center (http://www.barnwellcenter.com). A treasure- trove of handcrafted works in glass, jewelry, fiber arts, mixed media, visual art, photography, and souvenirs can be found at the arts market at the Barnwell.

· Take a scavenger hunt and walk the nature trails in search of hidden objects April 10 at Walter B. Jacobs Memorial Nature Park (http://www.caddoparks.com/memorial.cfm). The park is a 160-acre pine-oak-hickory forest dedicated to connecting the people of the Ark-La-Tex with nature through interpretation and recreation.

· On April 18 check out The Wizard of Oz at Shreveport RiverView Theater (http://www.shreveportla.gov/dept/spar/CityFacilities/RiverHall.htm). The Shreveport Metropolitan Ballet (http://www.shreveportmetroballet.org) reprises its critically acclaimed original production with choreography by SMB Artistic Director Kendra Meiki and an original score by SMB Music Director Kermit Poling.

For more information about upcoming events in Shreveport-Bossier visit (http://www.shreveportbossierfunguide.com) and to book a room visit (http://www.shreveport-bossier.org).

If you’re ready for a night (or a day) out on the town, Shreveport-Bossier has five riverboat casinos and a racino that offer 24-hour entertainment. On the Shreveport side of Red River you’ll find Sam’s Town and Eldorado. Across the river in Bossier City are Horseshoe, Boomtown and DiamondJacks. Bossier is also home to Harrah’s Louisiana Downs.

So what you do depends on what’s your pleasure . . . blackjack, poker, craps, roulette, ponies? There are plenty of chances for you to try your luck. If you’re in the mood to be entertained, take in a show by headliners like Raheem DeVaughn or Steve Harvey. You can even indulge in some serious shopping at the casinos’ on-site boutiques. After all that fun, you’ll be sure to have a big appetite, and the casino restaurants offer a wide range of menu items from sandwiches to prime rib. Gaming in Shreveport-Bossier is your all-in-one getaway.

Boomtown Casino & Hotel (www.boomtownbossier.com) has just completed a $2.5 million hotel renovation. Brand new furniture, LCD TVs, plush pillow top mattresses, a new pool, hot tub and fitness center . . . you’ve got to see it to believe it! Satisfy your appetite with anything from juicy steaks to a snack from the cafe. Then settle in for a night of action with almost 1,200 slots and more than 30 table games.

DiamondJacks Casino & Resort (www.diamondjacks.com/bossiercity) has 570 luxurious rooms with a casual, relaxing décor, four first-class restaurants, full-service spa, state of the art fitness center, and an arcade. If that’s not enough to keep you busy, take advantage of the 30,000 plus square feet of gaming action, including more than 1,000 loose slots and 32 table games. Fine Line Tattoo (www.finelinetattoos.com) just opened a new location inside the casino. This is the only Louisiana location. Other Fine Line Tattoo stores can be found in Dallas, Missouri and Japan

Enjoy timeless elegance and friendly personal service in one of the 403 luxurious rooms and suites at Eldorado Resort Casino Shreveport (www.eldoradoshreveport.com). Indulge your senses at the 6,000-sq.-ft. spa or amp it up at the state-of-the-art fitness center. Four fantastic restaurants offer anything from a romantic dinner for two to a full-service meeting for 200. Take your pick of more than 1,500 slots, more than 60 table games and the largest poker room in the area. Be sure to check out the Allure Ultra Lounge, upscale entertainment at its finest. Dance in a skybox with unobstructed views of live music in Celebrity Lounge or mingle at the lighted Avonite Bar.

The fun at Harrah’s Louisiana Downs (www.harrahslouisianadowns.com) is a horse of a different color.  The suites at the onsite hotel, Springhill Suites by Marriott, are 25 percent larger than comparably priced hotel rooms, and offer a complimentary breakfast buffet. Enjoy May-through-October live racing and 1,300 or the newest, hottest slots. Choose from a wide selection of menu items at one of the onsite restaurants.

Horseshoe Casino & Hotel (www.horseshoebossiercity.com) offers world-class distinction in its luxury hotel. The king suites are luxuriously appointed and have the in-room amenities you’d expect. Maintain your exercise regimen in the workout facility, then relax in the sauna and steam room. Better yet, get a soothing massage from a certified massage therapist. In the casino, choose from more than 1,500 slots and more than 60 table games. The casino’s Gambler Getaway Package is $69/night and includes a room, meal, and legendary casino action. Click here (https://www.horseshoebossiercity.com/MakeReservation.do?propCode=UBC&packageCode=PGETA) to learn more.

At Sam’s Town Hotel & Casino (www.samstownshreveport.com/boydgaming) each of the 514 rooms and suites has upgraded amenities that both you and your pet can enjoy. Stay in shape in the fitness center, or lounge at the pool. On the casino floor you’ll enjoy more than 1,100 slots and all your favorite table games. You won’t have a hard time finding something good to eat. Try the steakhouse, the buffet or the café for a variety of choices. The late night entertainment options are endless on the gaming floor and off the gaming floor. Check out March entertainment options like Mustang Sally, The Roscoes, The Groove Agents and more (http://www.samstownshreveport.com/entertainment/lounge-schedule).

The week is coming to a close and it's time to let your hair down and unwind with family and friends. Shreveport-Bossier is bubbling with things to do and want to offer some suggestions. So as you prepare to return phone calls, respond to emails or break for lunch, check out what you can get into this Thursday evening:

TNT Express Thursday Nite Trolley

Take a ride on the TNT Express Thursday Nite Trolley and tour throughout downtown Shreveport to and from various art and cultural venues to discover downtown through art, history, culture and science.

The FREE trolley features a guided narrative tour, created and produced by Jan Pettiet that offers interesting tidbits into Shreveport's past multicultural history. The trolley runs approximately every 25 minutes and stops on the TNT Express will vary every month. Some of these stops include Artspace, the Municipal Auditorium, Millennium Mural, Sci-Port: Louisiana’s Science Center, The Barnwell Garden and Art Center, Spring Street Historical Museum, Multicultural Center of the South, Southern University Museum of Art in Shreveport, and The Robinson Film Center.

If you go:
What: TNT Express Thursday Nite Trolley Tour
When: 5 - 8 p.m., Feb.18
Where: Artspace, 710 Texas Street, Shreveport
Admission: FREE

YPI and Sci-Port Happy Hour Style

Sci-Port: Louisiana’s Science Center and Young Professional Initiative team up to set the stage for young professionals to network and unwind with a unique cocktail.

Sci-Port puts the "frozen" (with Liquid nitrogen at -320° F) in Frozen Peach Bellini at a FREE Happy Hour for Shreveport's Young Professionals. Come have a drink on us. Sci-Port-style!  Liquid Nitrogen Peach Bellinis, cash bar, hors d'oeuvres and the famous Sci-Port Ball Machine. Plus, learn about Sci-Port's Mad Scientist Ball!

There’s no charge for admission and no RSVP is necessary.

If you go:
What: Happy Hour for Shreveport's Young Professionals
When: 5:30 – 7:30 p.m., Feb.18
Where: Sci-Port: Louisiana’s Science Center, 820 Clyde Fant Parkway, Shreveport
Admission: FREE

For more fun things to do visit shreveportbossierfunguide.com

Yes, Mardi Gras is coming to a close, but there are still fun activities to check out in Shreveport-Bossier before the party ends. Join local krewes on the Texas Street Bridge for the annual bridge closing ceremony. The Krewe of Aesclepius leads the annual Toast to the End of Mardi Gras on Feb. 16, joined by the kings, queens and captains of all the local krewes. Priests also distribute Lenten Ashes at midnight. This event is free to the public.

If you go:

What: The Krewe of Aesclepius Bridge Closing Ceremony

When: 11:30 p.m. to midnight, Feb. 16

Where: Middle of the Texas Street Bridge, Shreveport/Bossier City

The Krewe of Aesclepius will also host a Fat Tuesday Children's Parade that is geared toward families and children. Royalty will ride on the floats and in convertibles throughout the Louisiana Boardwalk entertainment complex. This event is free to the public.

If you go:

What: Krewe of Aesclepius Fat Tuesday Children's Parade

When: 6 p.m., Feb. 16

Where: 540 Boardwalk Boulevard Bossier City

This weekend is for lovers of Mardi Gras, great entertainment and shopping.

Though temperatures dipped and snow fell throughout the region, parade-goers are still excited about Mardi Gras.

A host of Valentine’s Day events will keep the party going as well. Check out the lineup:

The Krewe of Gemini will roll through the streets tossing beads and throws to throngs of people screaming "Throw me something mister."

Not only will parade-goers enjoy the pageantry of Krewe of Gemini, but they will be enthralled by surprise guest – Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Shreveport native and renowned blues artist.

Shepherd will be making an appearance on the Gremlin float. In addition to Sheppard this weekend is full of stars.

Martina McBride and Trace Adkins will bring their "Shine All Night Tour" to CenturyTel Center Feb. 13 at 7:30 p.m.

An American original, Jerry Lee Lewis, will warm the hearts of lovers this weekend. Lewis will perform at Sam's Town Casino Feb. 13. at 7 p.m. 

On Feb.13, the Ramada Inn and Conference Center, will host a Mardi Gras Massacre. Abby Singer’s Bistro in the Robinson Film Center will host a Valentine’s Day dinner, Feb. 13. Reservations are required.

Make your Valentine's Day weekend sweeter with special offers from the Villaggio Main Street merchants. 

On Valentine's Day, the Krewe of Highland Mardi Gras parade will kick off at 2 p.m.

For a complete listing of events this weekend visit shreveportbossierfunguide.com

Happy Mardi Gras and Valentine's Day!

Shreveport-Bossier wants to keep you informed about cancellations and closings throughout the area.

Due to inclement weather, The Young Professional Initiative event Happy Hour at Sci-Port-Style has been rescheduled to Thursday, Feb. 18!

 On Friday, Feb. 12 Caddo, Bossier, Webster, Lincoln and Shreveport Catholic schools will be closed due to inclement weather.

 On Friday, Feb. 12 the Kavinoky Breakfast has been cancelled due to worsening weather conditions in D.C. Janet Kavinoky was to address the northwest Louisiana business community. Kavinoky is the U.S. Chamber's senior lobbyist and policy director on all transportation issues and leads the U.S. Chamber's "Let's Rebuild America" initiative advocating the need to modernize and expand our nation's transportation, energy, telecommunications, and water infrastructure.

The breakfast has been cancelled until further notice. Those participants registered to attend the meeting are welcome to transfer their payments to the upcoming breakfast meeting with Congressman John Fleming being held Friday, Feb. 19. To confirm this transfer, participants must send a confirmation via email at info@shreveportchamber.org or call 318-677-2500.  

For the latest road conditions, school and business closings, please visit the following links:

http://www.ktbs.com

http://arklatexhomepage.com

http://www.ksla.com

http://shreveporttimes.com

Shreveport-Bossier is so excited about the Saints big upcoming game, and we're taking our excitement to the streets.

 On Friday, February 5, 2010 from 4-7 p.m. you can join the New Orleans Saints Fan Frenzy for Shreveport’s first ever “Who Dat” Pep Rally, at 505 Travis Street, in front of Government Plaza to cheer on the Saints and show your excitement and team spirit.  There will be lots of bands, cheerleaders, food, second-line dancing, face painting, contests and great prizes for the best dressed and craziest dressed Saints fan.   

 “Getting to the Super Bowl is something New Orleans Saints fans never thought would or could ever happen,” says Shreveport Mayor Cedric B. Glover.  “So it is without question that we call together the members of the “Who Dat” Nation from throughout the City and this region, to join in the thrill, excitement and revelry of Super Bowl XLIV.” 

 A proud member of the “Who Dat” Nation, Shreveport City Council Chairwoman Joyce Bowman proposed the idea of a hosting a local “Who Dat” Pep Rally to Mayor Glover.  “We finally did it,” says Bowman.  “And we want the whole City to come out and rally behind the Saints. We want our NFC Champions to know that the fans in North Louisiana are with them all the way.  We have something great to celebrate.  Who Dat!”

This weekend Sci-Port: Louisiana's Science Center has some fun planned for the Saints fans, too. Walk in and tell Sci-Port you love those Saints and get half off the  admission price. Go Saints fans!

 Visitors can participate in hands-on activities exploring the science of football at “Who Dat Days” this Saturday, February 6 and Sunday, February 7.   Events will include: 

• Saints Pep Rally (perfect pre-Krewe of Centaur Parade Riverfront event)

Saturday 3 p.m. -Whoop and holler and yell “Who Dat!” as Sci-Port presents this Saintly fun-packed hullabaloo. This will be your shining moment to wear your jersey and show how much you support Louisiana’s beloved team. That day’s winner of the drawing for the Saints Jersey will also be announced (see below).

• Win a Saints Jersey

Drawings at 3 p.m. Saturday; 6 p.m. Sunday - Sci-Port has two official NFL Saints jerseys to give away—one on Saturday and  one on Sunday. Here is another incentive to visit, so come on and sign up to win…and good luck!

• Constructing Noisemakers

Ongoing Saturday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.; Sunday 1 – 6 p.m.

• Black and Gold Gloop

Saturday 11 a.m. & 3 p.m.; Sunday 2 & 5 p.m. - Visitors will launch black and gold gloop (a mixture of glue and borax) at a Colts logo with a trebuchet.

• Egg Drop

Saturday 12 p.m.; Sunday 3 p.m. - This event will focus on the impact football can have on bodies and the importance of helmets.

• Flight of the Football

Saturday 1 p.m.; Sunday 4 p.m. - Explore the physics behind throwing and kicking a football.

• Laws of Motion

Saturday, 2 p.m.; Sunday, 5 p.m. - Newton’s three laws of motion will be discussed as it relates to head injuries and other rough aspects of football. Admission on both days will be half-off for visitors wearing Saints paraphernalia. Sci-Port officials are also considering charging double the admission price to Indianapolis Colts fans.  A surprise performance by a local marching band is also possible on Saturday. Sci-Port will close early at 4 p.m. on Saturday due to the Krewe of Centaur Parade that forms in front of the science center on the Clyde Fant Parkway.  

 Sci-Port: Louisiana's Science Center is a 92,000 square-foot science and entertainment center featuring 290 hands-on exhibits, a Space Center and Space Dome Planetarium, IMAX Dome Theatre, demonstration theater, daily changing programs, gift shop and cafe. Sci-Port is located at 820 Clyde Fant Parkway on the downtown Shreveport Riverfront. For general information call (318) 424-3466, toll-free (877) 724-7678 or see www.sciport.org