RAYVILLE – Colors, the most famous Cajun pirogue in the great State of Louisiana, made her appearance at the First Baptist Church of Rayville Jan. 31.

Colors was presented to the Saints Alive group by Cliff Dodge of Rayville. Cliff and his grandson, Robert Brown, started work on Colors Jan. 26, 2009 and completed her on Feb. 27, 2009. They only worked on her when Robert had free time. On July 14, 2009, Cliff and Robert launched Colors into the Ouachita River at the Monroe river landing. They went down the Ouachita River, merging into the Black River, then into the Red River and on down to the Atchafalaya River where they entered the Three Rivers Lock and Dam. When the large gates of the locks opened, they oared their way into the mighty Mississippi River. A whole new adventure began. They would be going against the mighty tug boats and barges that travel the great Mississippi.

The way Cliff described their river adventures was very vivid and most enjoyable. The slideshow and stories of his on Cajun childhood pleasantly took many of them back in time. Cliff also writes children’s short stories and poems.

The reading of his poem, “The Honey Bee,” was indeed refreshing as the honey bee is the Louisiana state insect.

Cliff had hoped to place Colors in the state museum. After meeting with the museum directors on Jan. 6, all parties agreed the museum was not the place for Colors. Cliff wanted Colors to be hands on and full of life. Therefore Colors will remain in the family and continue her travels over the great waterways of Louisiana. After she has traveled the six lakes and one more river, she can boast having traveled all the major water ways of Louisiana. They are Lake Bistineau, Toledo Bend, the Sabine River, Lake Calcasieu, Grand Lake, White Lake and last, but not least, the one and only Lake Pontchartrain. Cliff and Robert are hoping to make the Lake Pontchartrain crossing on July 4. Their crossing will be from Metairie to Mandeville .

Any school or church group that may wish to have Colors attend their church or classroom anywhere within the state may contact Cliff Dodge on Facebook. There will be no charge. This is indeed a treat for young and old alike. They will enjoy this great adventure. Plus you get to sign your name on Colors!

For more information, contact Dodge at sdodge@bellsouth.net.