**NELA Cultural Happening**
POVERTY POINT WORLD HERITAGE FESTIVAL – WEST CARROLL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ON THE MOVE
September 21, 2024, Oak Grove, LA
On this warm September day, I traveled to Oak Grove, Louisiana, to attend the Poverty Point World Heritage Festival. It’s a celebration of ancient earthworks constructed by American Indians around the same time Stonehenge was completed. From the moment I stepped into the West Carroll Parish Courthouse square, the atmosphere was alive with a festive spirit. The sights and sounds of children playing, music, and the aroma of southern cuisine drifted through the air. Vendors with colorful tents and crafts were selling their wares as the townspeople toured, talking about family and news of the day. What a beautiful day in Oak Grove.
I found a spot in the shade to listen to live music and visit with friends. I enjoyed the best fish taco. I arrived just in time to hear Katie Knight sing her original composition “Stay in Your Lane” with Christopher Martinez backing her on acoustic guitar. They performed on the steps of the courthouse. Katie’s rich, soulful voice resonated across the courthouse square. It was truly magical seeing these two perform together. Christopher performed solo before rejoining Katie for Merle Haggard’s song “Silver Wings.” They closed their set with “Undo It.” This was my first time hearing Christopher’s voice, he can sing. I hope to hear these two play together in the future.
Micah Kennedy made his way to the stage, captivating his listeners with songs like “Every Light in the House is On” and showcasing his original compositions “I Swear,” “Red Light,” and “Rock and a Hard Place.” His rendition of Tim McGraw’s “Red Rag Top” was stellar. His rich voice painted the townscape another shade of amber in the late afternoon sun. His performances of “Red Light” and “Rock and a Hard Place” were equally impressive. However, it was his stellar rendition of Tim McGraw’s “Red Rag Top” that truly stood out. With his rich voice, Micah painted the townscape in another shade of amber under the late afternoon sun.
The festival started at 7:00 AM with a 5K run at the Poverty Point World Heritage Site, followed by an opening prayer at the courthouse square. There were many activities throughout the day. The festival closed at 5:00 PM. I had a great experience at this festival and will be back next year. Photographer David Keller was out and about today. Watch for his photographs.
I had the chance to meet Lana Allred, the West Carroll Chamber of Commerce Director, and her team. It only took a moment to confirm what I already suspected—they are energized, working as a team, and being proactive. In Monroe, we’ve been hearing about their collaborations, digital planning meetings, and noticed an uptick in social media activity. I encouraged Lana to reach out to Monroe Chamber of Commerce Director Roy Heatherly for broader conversations on regional collaborations.
The West Carroll Chamber of Commerce is on the move.
Tom M.
Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser Northeast Louisiana Arts Council Mike Downhour
