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Permalink Reply by The_Baron on November 10, 2008 at 4:49

I agree, we are in chapter two in a long novel.

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Permalink Reply by Grice on November 9, 2008 at 15:49

From a personal objective; I would like to see attention drawn to a comparison toward the oil boom of the early 1900's, and the aftermath of the oil bust that followed. While newer technology will allow for faster operations, it will also contribute to the rapid descent that will follow. The oil boom placed this area "in the map" in both a good and bad way. The good came from the amount of wealth that was gained, but also brought the bad, in the form of political corruption. When the oil boom was over, people were left in devastating circumstances. Even today, the aftermath of the oil bust can be seen in the red light district. While the red light district is no longer a thriving activity, the effects still overshadow those sections of town. While the evacuation of the oil business was secondary to the recession, we are finding ourselves in a mirror situation. While the NatGas Boom may help keep this area afloat for awhile, it does so as the economy steadily declines. On paper, this could be seen as a repeat of what made this area so great, but also what caused its own downfall. Often, we look for the instant riches, without giving credence to what happens when things stop. People may find themselves with near instant wealth beyond their wildest imagination. They will see this as all good, not considering what will happen when the game whistle is blown. When there is no new money, and the prior money is gone, what then? Do we find ourselves repeating history?

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Permalink Reply by Mark Bullard on November 9, 2008 at 17:24

Thanks for the feedback guys. Glad to see a "Hoop Dreams" fan out there...a truly excellent movie, if you haven't seen it, very highly recommended. Will have to think about "Royalty Dreams," I know that would go over well for the members here!

Jim, that's an excellent idea on revisiting this later down the road. In fact, we have discussed a potential "Part II" to this film where we do exactly that. Also interesting to see if the financial good fortune truly turns out to be good fortune. If you know of anyone who is a reluctant recipient of this windfall, who would rather just continue their life uninterrupted, for "better or for worse", that could be an interesting interview subject.

In regard to something "plain hard to believe", I think gator wrestling, alligator snapping turtle fishing (with bare hands), hunting 500 lb hogs on foot, all count as pretty far out there. I'm sure there are some other Louisiana traditions I'm not familiar with--I'm from Texas originally, so we have our own brand of "you'd never believe" out there too.

Grice, very interesting thoughts. We are thinking about comparing this situation to other booms and "gold rushes" through history. Looking into the future, and contemplating the next "bust" is an interesting idea. We visited Oil City, where you can still see the lingering aftermath of a bust in the form of rusted oil equipment, pumpjacks, etc. A faded city. It's interesting to think that it might all be revived within the next couple of years.

Anyway, thanks again, and please keep the ideas flowing. Ultimately it comes down to what we can get on film. Any and all ideas or leads welcome at this point...

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