Many, if not most, were Louisiana natives, and virtually all were members of the working class - nurses, janitors, barbers, merchant marines.

"Agriculture is the best tool we can give them," said Brandy Blackman, a young Louisiana native who recently dropped out of graduate school to direct the farm.

The museum exhibits memorabilia donated by Louisiana natives who became prominent in country and gospel music.

Sara's parents were Edward and Sarah Hanna Yorke, Louisiana natives who moved to Paris during the 1840s.

Garlow, a Louisiana native who had relocated to Beaumont, Texas, was a blues guitarist and singer.

The 33-year-old Louisiana native was picked in the first round of the 2002 draft out of the University of Miami.

It is the creation of Troy Dupuy, a Louisiana native who at 38 is younger than the venerable restaurant.

The 5-foot-2-inch, 110-pound Louisiana native is focused on the future, but conscious of the past.

Another Louisiana native does a star turn at appetizer time: popcorn shrimp (addictive, crisp and dandy).

The award goes to Louisiana natives who have distinguished themselves in music, art, theater, literature and politics.