Recipes with Louis M. "DD" Scarabin, Jr.

Louis M. “DD” Scarabin Jr. recounts his childhood in Burrwood, Louisiana, where his family relied on hunting and fishing for food. He describes the abundance of wild pigs and the popularity of tarpon fishing, which led to the establishment of rodeos. Scarabin also shares memories of the government-run store, the ice-making facility, and the kerosene-powered stove and lamps used in his home.

Scarabin recounts his childhood sailing adventures in a skiff, learning the skill from an uncle. He also shares a harrowing experience of nearly drowning while fishing with his father and uncles, highlighting the dangers of the swift river currents. Despite the lack of life jackets, his father’s quick action saved his life.

One day, while fishing in the Portsite (Ammamapare) channel, Louis and two friends’ boat capsized, leaving them stranded in the water. One friend, Joe Podufalski, swam back to the boat and turned off the motor, allowing the others to be rescued. Despite the frightening experience, they returned to fishing later that day.

A fishing trip to an island off the southern coast of New Guinea resulted in the loss of all the fish caught. They encountered a large sea snake and later, while returning, their motorboat broke down near an island teeming with crabs. After being stranded, they received help from shark fishermen and eventually returned to port, where some crew members had to work on a tram accident. DD recounts an Indonesian memory of a soldier shooting a crocodile between Pad 11 and Portsite.

Scarabin recounts his childhood in Burrwood with limited 4th of July celebrations. He also discusses his Buras high school sports, preferring baseball, and limited track success.

Louis shares his favorite dishes, preferring fresh, locally sourced fish like redfish and snapper. He enjoys crab, lobster, and fish liver but avoids certain meats due to health concerns. He also mentions playing football and baseball and the impact of mosquitoes on outdoor activities.

DD doesn't prefer pizza and Mexican food and doesn’t actively seek them out but will still eat them. He shares memories of his childhood in Burrwood, mentioning the absence of restaurants and bars, and the presence of a canal separating Burrwood from Hollywood. Hollywood, with its privately built homes and outhouses, was considered less affluent than Burrwood, which had a sewage system.

Lastly, Scarabin discusses his childhood home, noting Hollywood’s privacy and Burrwood’s government assistance.