Happy birthday, Smiley! 86 years of smiles and 50 years at The Advocate

Longtime columnist Smiley Anders marks his 86th trip around the sun today.

Advocate staff and readers are grateful for his steadfast presence, positive disposition and the multitude of kernels of wisdom and wit that he has shared and continues to share six days a week for 50 of those 86 years.

If you would like to send Smiley a birthday greeting, email here (jan.risher@theadvocate.com) and we will send your messages his way.

Advocate photo by Pam Bordelon Advocate columnist Smiley Anders, third from left, with the organizers of a roast celebrating the 30th anniversary of his daily column, from left, Robby Zeringue, Mike Humble, Tom Sylvest Jr. and Dale J. Landry.

Here are a few favorite Smiley columns from recent years:

Smiley on the difference between Mamaw and Mama

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