Cajun ingenuity

     People in South Louisiana know how to make something out of practically nothing. Recycling is an old concept on the bayou, where making due with what you have is a lifestyle.

     Take the Bathtub Madonna, for instance. South Louisiana residents are heavily Catholic, which is why visitors will see Madonna statues and little altars everywhere. If finances are tight, or the outer grotto has been damaged, an upright bathtub will do the trick to cover the Virgin Mother.

     Another example is staying cool. In the depths of deep summer we will use anything to fill with water and chill out. 

     That’s why Downtown Lafayette and Townsquare Media are celebrating the Hottest Night of the Year, Aug. 23, 2013, with a family-friendly, summer blowout party from 7-10 p.m. at Parc Sans Souci in downtown Lafayette. There will be water slides, fire dancers, the Sans Souci fountain (feel free to jump in), cold beverages and DJ Digital from Hot 107.9! After the sun goes down, there will be a live performance from One Trick Pony. Best of all, admission is free! 

     But here’s where Cajun ingenuity comes in. The party includes a contest for the best Pickup Pool prize. In other words, bring your pickup trucks, fill up the cab with water and saw us your best pool idea.