The first memory I have of eating at a Baton Rouge restaurant occurred a scant four years ago and, like many awkward situations in my life, happened in the company of my father.We went to Louie’s.My dad was always on the look out to introduce his introverted son into the wider world. Before we even had our drinks he struck up a conversation with the waitress, quickly informing her that this handsome young man sitting across from him was, in fact, his son. His single son.When I get embarrassed, my ears burn — and that day they felt hot as a white star.But as for the food, I was hooked.Over the years I have sampled the menu and found a few favorites. The burgers are good and the fries are better, but the seafood poboy is basically the best sandwich ever. Also to die for: the apple pie with ice cream.Yet Louie’s is more than just food.Excluding my mother, the three most important women in my life are all intimately linked with Louie’s. Though that information is perhaps better fodder for a psychology thesis than a newspaper column, it points to what an important role Louie’s can — and does — play for students at this campus.Students need a place to go for a solid breakfast after waking up hungover. Louie’s is there for them. Students need a local spot to head after a high-pressure evening in Tiger Stadium. Louie’s is just around the corner. Students need a destination — within walking distance, of course — when the 5 a.m. drunken revelry turns toward a grumbling belly. And Louie’s is open 24 hours.Perhaps most importantly, students need a venue where they can turn unskilled labor into cash to pay for alcohol, drugs or tuition. Louie’s hires them.More than friendly frycooks and greasy gourmet, Louie’s is a pillar that holds up the University community. It is the fabric upon which independent society can exist in orbit of a major educational institution. And it’s a place I will certainly miss when I graduate.So be sure to take time and enjoy the University’s satellite businesses. And when you do, keep in mind that they are more important than just a plate of hot fries.—-Contact Daniel McBride at [email protected]