Come to New Orleans - PLEASE

[BOSSHOG]

Spend a day or two. Visit the Aquarium or the IMAX theatre. Take a trolley ride down St Charles Avenue. Go to the World War II Museum (formally the D-Day Museum), it is awesome. Take in a show at the House of Blues. Cafe aulait and Beignets at Midnight on Decatur. If you are Catholic, take in Mass at St Louis Cathedral. Dine fancy at Brennan's or munch on a Lucky Dog and down it with a draft beer on Bourbon. Buy tacky t-shirts for all those back home. Visit Marie Lavou's grave(s) (preferably in large crowds.) And there's so much more.

If you visit you will be providing much needed support for the local tax base and have a good time doing it. Many Local businesses which depend on the tourist trade are barely hanging on. Thanks.

[porphyrian]

1. Did the Trolley Stop on St. Charles reopen (next to the Ponchartrain Hotel)?

Great breakfast memories there.

[garthranzz]

26. Streetcars only running on Canal right now n/t

[porphyrian]

30. I meant the restaurant called "The Trolley Stop."

It is/was an affordable greasy spoon, open 24 hours, I think, with the best damn breakfast food and that chicory coffee. I ended up there a couple of times, and it's one of my favorite places.

[americanstranger]

77. My wife and I found that place by mistake!

Best breakfast we had in two trips to NOLA!

- as

[porphyrian]

84. Wasn't it great? They were busy as hell every time I went there.

I hope they're back, or will be.

[americanstranger]

85. Yep. We found it to be the perfect place to stop

at the beginning of our walking tour(s) of the Garden District. Except the breakfasts were so big I didn't really feel much like walking afterwards!

But that's what the trolley's for, right? ;)

- as

[likesmountains 52]

95. I think it is open...seems like I saw activity there in April..

[porphyrian]

98. Sweet. I'm not sure how soon I can get there, but that's one place I won't miss. - n/t

[ClintonTyree]

104. I've been there many times.....

I'm an early riser so, as everyone else slept in, I'd go to the Trolley Stop for a GREAT breakfast. There are some very colorful characters in there at 5:00 AM, believe me.

[porphyrian]

112. That's saying something for New Orleans...

There are nothing but colorful characters and good food joints, so it's a big deal when individuals stand out.

[Moloch]

2. I would love to....

I'm from Louisiana and would love to see N'Awlins again. As soon as I can afford to do so, I will be down there.

[Jacobin]

3. Is the St. Charles line up and running yet?

Last time I was there, it hadn't gotten back on its feet. The Canal Street lines is going, though.

[KamaAina]

56. They are trying to get a small part of it up by the end of the year

http://www.norta.com/st_charles.php

St. Charles Streetcar Line Update
Although work has begun on replacing the poles, pole foundations, and the overhead electrical system on the St. Charles Line, the complete project will not be finished until late 2007. The overhead system was heavily damaged by Hurricane Katrina. RTA is working hard to try and get the Central Business loop of the St. Charles streetcar line (from Carondelete (no final 'e' -Ed.) and Canal Street to Lee Circle) completed by the end of 2006. If you would like to ride a streetcar, the St. Charles streetcars are running on both the Canal St. line and the Riverfront line.

K-A
who once lived three blocks from the end of the line on S. Carrollton

edit: italics

[NeedleCast]

4. I'm here now

Been here for three weeks for business. I'm glad to see the quarter is still hoppin'. My co-workers and I have had a great time in the bars and restaraunts and I've enjoyed the 60 and 70 degree weather as well!

[eyesroll]

5. I'll be there in March!

A group of us are going to work with the Common Grounds Legal Collective for a week, but we'll have at least a half a day and some evenings free to be tourists.

:hi:

[abluelady]

6. New Orleans

Proud mama bragging here. My son took a vacation week in September and volunteered with a couple of organizations down there. He tore down houses and put up houses. He met folks from all over the world volunteering. It was a good thing for both N.O. and him. It was a truly amazing experience for him. He came home and emailed everyone he knew urging them to do the same.

Of course he also "forced" himself after tiring, hot days to boost the economy.:) He's already planning on being at Jazzfest this year!

[unpossibles]

7. I miss New Orleans very much! We plan on going there for our

anniversary/Halloween next year at the very least.

Also, our local scooter club throws a big rally every March where we donate the proceeds to charity, and this year we are again donating to a nonprofit club set up by scooterists in NOLA that helps out Katrina families and whatnot, so hopefully that also goes back into the city coffers as well, as these people are trying to rebuild their lives.

[magellan]

8. Oh I wish I could!

I've been wanting to visit NOLA for some time. But running our own business, it's hard getting the money and the workload to gibe for consecutive days off. We haven't had a true vacation of any sort in 6 years! However, when friends talk about going away, I always suggest NOLA to them for the reasons you give. I'd go in a heartbeat myself.

[demnan]

9. I've always wanted to

I will try to make it down for a few days next year.

[indepat]

10. We had mid-September 2005 reservations in New Orleans to our celebrate 50th,

lived there from '57 to '66 (experienced Betsy), both girls born there, but the wife says she could not bear seeing the devastation of her beloved New Orleans. Maybe in time.

[sinkingfeeling]

11. I'd like to do that, Boss. Maybe I can get away a couple of days. Do you know of any place to stay

that allows dogs?

[BOSSHOG]

21. Maybe this will help

http://hotels.about.com/od/petfriendlyneworleans/PetFriendly_Hotels_New_Orleans.htm

The quarter is a very pet friendly environment. They even have their own Mardi Gras Parade, the Krewe of Barkus on a Sunday in February where the Dogs get all dressed up and Parade through the Quarter. Its quite a spectacle.

HOW BOUT THEM HOGS?? While I am urging folks to come to New Orleans I need to head to Fayetteville for a visit. We were last there in May.

[bookman]

12. We have a trip planned.

We decided about a month ago to go early next year. Thanks for the list of things to do. We moved to East Texas a few years ago an planned to get there. Our hearts broke with Katrina, but we're determined to visit now more than ever.

I really want to see the WWII Museum. And I haven't had a good beignet in years.

[BOSSHOG]

18. The WWII Museum

is nothing short of awesome. Its quite large and growing all the time.

May I suggest you make your own beignets at home:

http://www.cafedumonde.com/main.html

My wife uses their mix and makes them at home and they are delicious; damn near identical to the original, although she has yet to find cottonseed oil which the cafe uses to cook theirs. Our home does not quite have the ambience of Decatur Street.

[bookman]

97. Thanks

And my wife told me she can find this brand in our local grocery. Yummm!

[BigEdMustapha]

13. I'm coming twice in 2007

I went to New Orleans in September 06 with a group of adults from my church (building, gutting houses, etc.) but we made it down to the French Quarter twice that week. My church has another adult mission trip scheduled in April and a youth mission trip scheduled in June and I plan to go on both. The groups of us that went in September has been working to spread the word about New Orleans, encouraging others to visit and/or help out. Thanks for the tips on places to visit there - I've written them down to remember for my next trips.

[madokie]

14. Thats the wife and I's planned vacation for next summer

its a big deal for us as we are not vacationing types

[BOSSHOG]

23. That's great

You might want to take in a Swamp Tour. They are best in the summertime when the Alligators are most plentiful. Leave about eight in the morning, back to your French Quarter Bar by noon and someone else did all the driving.) Maybe a romantic horse and buggy ride around town in the evening, or even lunch on a steamboat trip on the Mississippi. Christ, I sound the chamber of commerce but I do love the place. Its just a tad different then Oklahoma.

[madokie]

33. friends of ours go down pretty regularly and bring back all kinds of good food

from crawdads on down. The people down there have got some good news lately, the court rulings on the insurance and fema's providing shelter still. Lots of hard times ahead of us all but at least the tide has turned, the bleeding has slowed somewhat.

[pitohui]

74. summer swamp tours

do not forget when on a summer swamp tour to look UP, you should be able to see swallow-tailed kites and certainly mississippi kites (probably both) with little trouble

bring binoculars for better views

[Sabriel]

15. We're coming in a month

We've never been, and we're looking forward to spending money where it'll do some good.

Got any suggestions for entertainment and food ideas for two younger kids? Family-friendly restaurants with great food? I'd appreciate some NOLA parent input.

[BOSSHOG]

19. We do not have children

but I would recommend Bubba Gumps Restaurant on Decatur Street. Very family friendly and lots of fun for kids of all ages. Its themed around the Movie Forest Gump. The IMAX and the Aquarium are on the riverwalk (walking distance from anywhere in the quarter.) There is also a Hard Rock Cafe on Decatur; Margaritaville Restaurant on Decatur (cheeseburger in Paradise) and a great Pizza Place (Louisana Kitchen) in the Farmer's Market. For Fried Chicken I'd recommend Fiorella's on Decatur. You may be able to get a Swamp Tour from a Quarter Hotel. They take you to swamps about an hour from the city and check out the flora and fauna and alligators. Although mid summer is the best time for the largest crop of alligators. The cemetary and ghosts tours are a lot of fun but I don't know how they would effect children. DO NOT go to the cemetaries by yourselves; always go in a big group. There is also Horse Racing at the Fair Grounds, thursday through Sunday through March. I don't know if I'd recommend taking young one's down Bourbon Street. It can be a little raunchy; there are lots of strip clubs and the t-shirt shops have displays that you might not want little ones to see. I think the WWII Museum is a wonder of the world but It may be a bit much for little ones. Wear comfortable shoes and if anyone stops you and tells you they are going to give you a ticket for not being happy tell them you are a local and keep walking. They'll try to sell you a hat. Pick up a "Where" Magazine when you get there, they are free and have coupons you might use. And be sure to take a stroll through the French Market. Tons of tacky souvenirs and even some nice stuff. Hope you have a great time.

[kestrel91316]

92. Why no going to cemeteries alone??

[Lasher]

102. You don't go to the cemetary alone because you could get mugged

Seems there's some dangerous living people who lurk among the tombstones.

[kestrel91316]

117. oh. Homeless encampments and drug users, I bet.

[BOSSHOG]

118. The graves in New Orleans

are above ground which makes it sort of a maze. Tourists wander in and become easy pickings if they are not in a large group because there is so much cover for any illegal activity.

[proud2BlibKansan]

99. Bubba Gumos is wonderful!

They have the best key lime pie in the world!!

[RB TexLa]

16. Went to a Mardi Gras party this year but didn't spend the night

flew in and flew out, much easier that way.

[slackmaster]

17. I've been wanting to go there for years, BOSSHOG

It would have been this year had a new Navy new ship not caught fire at Pascagoula, delaying its launching by a year and altering my brother's orders.

Looks like my big trip this year will be to Norfolk, VA. Maybe next time!

[TransitJohn]

20. get thee to the greatest page

bump

[mopinko]

22. is there somewhere affordable to stay?

i tried to work in a trip to the jazz and heritage festival, but the kicker was the price of hotel rooms.
i am thinking of coming after jan 1, after DH's new vacation days kick in.

[BOSSHOG]

25. I would suggest

you move up your dates until about the 8th. The Sugar Bowl will be held the 3rd so rates will be high before then and rooms scarce. I'm not sure of rates but mid January is just the start of Mardi Gras Season so relatively low tourist time. I would recommend the Bourbon Orleans or the Bienville House. They are conveniently located to everything in the Quarter. BO right on Bourbon and BH right across from House of Blues. My opinion only, but I would not get a room on Canal Street if your plan is to "do" the Quarter. I just don't like the logistics of going from the Quarter to a hotel on Canal late at night.

[mopinko]

37. bookmarking this thread, friend

hope to hoist one with you when i make it down.
hubby is trying to get me to go along with buying a new car, something that is just not a part of my cheapskate personality. so he says- we could drive to nola. you can fit a lot of stuff in there. you can take goodies with you. trouble with being married 25 years is they know your weaknesses.

[BOSSHOG]

40. I have to chuckle

We've been married almost 33 years and my wife knows me better then I know myself. I would recommend flying instead of driving. If you intend on doing the quarter routine you won't need a car and if you want to go somewhere, cabs are plentiful. New Orleans is a pain in the butt to drive in if you are not familiar with the city and parking fees are a little rich. Shuttles from the airport will drop you off at your Hotel front door. I must admit a bias, I hate to drive anywhere. That would be quite a long drive from Chicago. I would suggest you spend that time sipping a Hand Grenade on the balcony of the Tropical Isle on Bourbon. And if you go nuts with buying stuff, just mail it home. Wear comfortable shoes.

[mopinko]

47. it's one of those things, ya know.

first, we like to drive. and my last trip was a drive to dc, with a trailer with a bum hitch. bounced me all over the road for the first few hundred miles. i still shake a little just thinking about it. got to get that memory out of my system.
but really, i have some musical instruments that i have been trying to get down there. the katrina piano fund was supposed to get some transport down there, but they came up empty. i confess i have not done as much as i could to mooch for myself. since i have been wanting to get down there, i keep thinking about driving down.

a long marriage is a crazy thing. we spent a lot of it struggling, but we are really good now. don't know how we did it, though.

[garthranzz]

24. Chanukah-at-Riverwalk - December 17, on the Mississippi River

We light a 12' menorah, hundreds come from all over the community, free and open to the public, food - if you're here then, come join us.

[BOSSHOG]

28. Awesome Garth

I hope it is a great success again. Maybe we can get some out of town DUers to join in. The Riverwalk on a brisk December Evening, what a great environment.

[Behind the Aegis]

42. Are you serious?!

I didn't know that! AWESOME! That is just 8 blocks from my house! I'll be there! Why so early? Chanukah starts on Christmas Day this year.

[JudyM]

43. Better start shopping, BTA: Chanukah starts on 12/16.

http://www.timeanddate.com/calendar/index.html?year=2006&country=34

I think last year it started on Xmas.

:hi: :pals:

[Behind the Aegis]

48. CRAP!!!

I was looking at last year's calendar! Thank you sooooooo much! I am glad I shop through the year and live so close to the French Market...NOLA gift baskets for all!

[garthranzz]

46. Chanukah begins Friday night, Dec. 15 - Bring lots of friends to the Riverwalk!

It's a great event. We hold it there because 15+ years ago the program director, a Black fellow, gave us full support. It was one way of showing the David Dukes they couldn't win.

[Behind the Aegis]

49. I was looking at last year's calendar!

I am so glad I saw your's and JudyM's post....I would have lost more shopping days! I will be there. It is the day my partner returns, so that will be the best Chanukah gift of all! Where's about on Riverwalk will it be?

[garthranzz]

50. Spanish Plaza, by the fountain n/t

[Behind the Aegis]

53. We'll be there! Thanks for the info!!!!! n/t

[Blue_In_AK]

27. We very much enjoyed our stay in New Orleans

in September. It was a first for me. We stayed at the Royal Sonesta on Bourbon Street, bought the tacky T-shirt for my youngest daughter who was watching the animals back home, and visited Marie's grave (by ourselves). :)

[BOSSHOG]

31. That's one of Marie's Graves

I think she has at least three in the city and often about three in the morning she can be seen hovering around the 700 block of Bourbon. Incredible that you went on your own. The configuration of New Orleans cemetaries (with the graves above ground) make them conducive for unseen muggings. Thanks very much for your visit.

[Blue_In_AK]

36. It was first thing in the morning right after the gate opened.

There were a few other people around. The tours didn't fall at a workable time for us, and I'm a graveyard fan, so we just took our chances.

[BOSSHOG]

38. Those who would do you harm

were passed out drunk or on drugs resting up for their hard days work ahead when you visited. Did you get to the Cemetary in Metarie? That one is awesome and would be quite a treat for a cemetary afficianado.

[Blue_In_AK]

41. We didn't have time, although we saw it from the highway...

I would have loved to have spent more time there, but we were only down there for five days and went over to Biloxi to visit InTheFlow for three of them. We did do one of those swamp tours out of Slidell with ITF. That was great -- a whole lot different than Alaska, for sure. :) The trip was a real eye-opener for me. We took Highway 10 over to Biloxi but came back to New Orleans on 90, is it, along the coast. The devastation down there was just unbelievable. Waveland looked like a war zone.

[americanstranger]

78. We met Anne Rice in Lafayette Cemetary

on Halloween 2001.

There was a guy there giving an impromptu tour of the cemetary (he said he was writing a book about it), and we got to the end of the tour and he was answering questions when we heard a woman's voice behind us.

She knew the tour guide, and they talked for a minute or so. My wife leaned over and whispered, 'That's Anne Rice!'

We stopped her and said our hellos. She seemed as nice as everyone else we met in NOLA.

I miss that city. We gotta get back there, and soon. Time to talk to the wife. :)

- as

[BOSSHOG]

81. Thats very kind of you to consider

I know so many people want to come and help clean up and rebuild and provide whatever manpower they can; and God Bless them for their efforts. But. Buying a beer and a po-boy provides the much needed tax base which is lacking the most. That fuels the engine. Pays the police and firemen. Helps the merchants. Even keeps the graft and corruption alive; wouldn't be New Orleans without it. Anne Rice is a wonderful woman despite the aura of her books. And what I love about the "ghost" tours are that no two are alike. Lies, facts, stories, fiction, who cares? I guarantee, you are always welcome.

[americanstranger]

82. Boss, we were going to come back in September '05.

But Mother Nature had her say.

We love your city, man. Besides our beloved NYC, there is no other place that I'd rather spend my days.

Until Katrina hit, we were looking for a second home down that way. When it's time for the wife and I to turn off the computers and retire, I believe we will end up spending the remainder of our days in that beautiful town.

But that doesn't mean between now and then that we can't visit. Damn, a NOLA weekend might be a great present to spring on the wife. Who knows, you might get a PM from me telling you I'm in your nabe and you gotta go get a beer with us. :)

- as

[BOSSHOG]

83. I recall Mother Nature

all too well from that Sunday morning through Monday Evening. Godawful scary 36 hours, then we checked the damage. Your offer is very kind. I've been known to drink a beer or two, but it would be extremely rude of me not to buy the first round. Cheers, my fellow American. BTW I don't live in Louisiana but I'm a mere 60 miles from the Quarter. As I tell anyone who might give a damn, my heads in Mississippi, but my heart is in Louisiana.

[americanstranger]

86. I hear you.

Hell, my head's all the way up here in NY, but I'd go back there today.

Maybe it's an ancestry thing (my dad was born in Lake Charles), but LA just felt like home for some reason.

- as

[slestak]

29. K&R

Funny. I was just thinking to myself last night about going on vacation in New Orleans this year. My wife and I have never been.

It's going to be a crazy year for us, so I don't know that we will actually get to go anywhere, but if we can get away, NO is first on my list.

[LonelyLRLiberal]

32. Hopefully, there will be a lot of Arkies there for the Sugar Bowl.

I broke a ceramic mask I bought there years ago, and want to buy a replacement. If you can send me the phone number of one of the shops that sell them in the French Quarter, I will make a small contribution to the local economy.

[BOSSHOG]

34. WOOOO PIG SOOOOIEEEEE!!

Now that would be incredible. Hogs in the Quarter. I'm a 79 grad (Holtz and Cowins and Calcagni and Hampton - oh my!)

May I suggest:

www.mardigrasworld.com
www.nola.com
www.thomasmann.com

Hopefully you can find a mask on one of these sites.

[LonelyLRLiberal]

61. Thanks, and GO HOGS! n/t

[RB TexLa]

39. I wouldn't hold my breath on that

If I were you, I'd look at this site a little more.

http://www.attcottonbowl.com/main/

[LonelyLRLiberal]

62. Gator?

If so, it sure can be cold in Dallas on New Year's Day. Freeze those little Gator toes.

[RB TexLa]

66. I live in Dallas and Louisiana, it's actually pretty rare for it to be that

cold here in Jan.

I should be pretty warm at the Rose Bowl in purple and gold.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/15969953/

[BOSSHOG]

72. I'll guess you'll miss the SEC championship game this weekend

in Atlanta where the two best teams in the conference play for the conference crown. Just how much did you LSU guys offer dick to pass like a drunk?

[LonelyLRLiberal]

88. I think they bribed Nutt to call stupid plays at the end.

Those passes sure didn't look like Malzahn plays.

[LonelyLRLiberal]

89. Congrats to the Tigers for a nice season - Geaux Tigers.

You just lucked out in Little Rock when Nutt made some really bad coaching decisions and when you got that long return. But, then that's why we love football, 'cause you never know what's gonna happen.

[KaryninMiami]

35. I AM coming to New Orleans! In January!

Along with a few hundred hospitality industry professionals from around the world for a major conference the third week of January. I'm thinking of staying an extra day to volunteer somewhere- was going to contact Habitat but if you have any other ideas, PM me please!

Can't wait to go there and I promise to shop, drink and munch and many of the people attending the conference will be meeting and event planners so hopefully they will bring back lots of groups and conventions in the months ahead.

[KamaAina]

63. Another idea: see #58 below

my adopted neighborhood organization always has lots of out-of-town volunteers and is a 10 to 15-minute streetcar ride from Canal and the Quarter.

http://www.pnola.org

[JudyM]

44. Maybe we could have a DU convention in New Orleans. n/t

[K8-EEE]

45. And Go See Susan Cowsill...and download this song!

http://susancowsill.com/cc_snow.html

She is awesome and I heard her do this beautiful post-Katrina anthem here in L.A., but I would love to see her in her beloved New Orleans!

I think when Michael Moore makes his Katrina movie it should feature this song.

[Bluebear]

80. Here here!!!! nt

[cally]

51. I'm attending a conference in NO in February

I'm hoping to combine the business travel with some volunteer time. I'd love suggestions.

[KamaAina]

58. This emerging neighborhood organization is volunteer-driven

and is just a few minutes from the business district on the Canal streetcar.

http://www.pnola.org/aboutus.cfm

The Phoenix of New Olreans began after Hurricane Katrina, born from the damage and neglect of an obscure, historically poor downtown neighborhood called TulaneGravier. Before the storm, this neighborhood suffered from the shadow of Downtown, being cast out as a spill-way for commuters between Metairie and downtown. Warehouses along Poydras were end-points for unwanted government goods, abandoned cars and most anything unsightly or forgotten. Drugs were rampent throughout the neighborhood and the crime rate was at the top. Businesses along Tulane Ave were sparse and run-down, with some abandoned buildings looming over the neighborhood. There is great potential in this area, including historic breweries, medical and biomedical centers, auto centers, digital media centers, and the Galvez Street Promenade but at the current pace, we are far from such a reality.

After the storm, the Phoenix of New Orleans was set-up to be both a neighborhood association and a self-determined sustainable development organization that would plow ahead and rebuild the area and help meet the needs of its neighbors who have little support from FEMA and the city government. The money is the issue and residents/victims are stuck in limbo until something can be done to give confidence that this area will be rebuilt and that it's possible to return to their homes. The education, jobs, food supply, healthcare, environmental hazards and living conditions are all below the level of a basic standard of living, and though many places in the world are poor and neglected, this neighborhood is in the heart of one of the greatest cities in America and represents the cold truth that we cannot support ourselves as a country, and that every neighborhood like this one should be greatly improved throughout the United States to proove to the world that we as a nation are one community strong, with every neighborhood having lamposts, clean streets, solid education opportunities and a bustling economic diversity.

Disclaimer: I have been feeding these people ideas since New Year's. I lived in a different neighborhood (Carrollton), but used to go to Tulane/Gravier weekly to defend a women's health clinic that was then located there. So, when PNOLA came along, I kind of adopted them as "my" neighborhood group.

[blm]

52. BOSSHOG - this article in Forbes is a MUST READ. The last bit will cheer you.

http://www.forbes.com/2006/11/18/congress-small-business-taxes-ent-law-cx_mf_1120kerry.html?partner=links

[mandyky]

54. I was just wondering about the Gulf area..

the other day. The media needs to do some follow up stories. (Maybe they have, I haven't had much access to TV and newspapers)

Hopefully after the Dems get sworn in, Hurricane Katrina affected areas will get the attention they need.

[huskerlaw]

55. I'll be there in July...

for a work-related conference, so I'll be bringing a few thousand of my closest friends with me. ;)

I've never been there, and I am definitely looking forward to it!

[Hobarticus]

57. My wife and I are planning a trip to the Big Easy this spring...

Went there maybe ten years ago and loved it, and have always wanted to get back.

[BOSSHOG]

64. May I suggest

The French Quarter Festival 13-15 April 2007

http://www.fqfi.org/

Its after Mardi Gras and before the Jazz Fest. Great Music and awesome NOLA food in venues throughout the Quarter, Jackson Square and the Riverwalk. Its less logistically challenging then the Jazz Fest and not near as crowded as Mardi Gras and the weather is just about right, not too hot, not too cold. We go every year and love it. Bring your comfortable dancing shoes and a big ole appetite.

[Hobarticus]

73. Thanks, I'll look into that!

It'd be a good time to go!

[KamaAina]

59. I'm working on it!

travel details still to be worked out with Mom -- that way she pays for the hotel room :P -- but it looks like the first couple of weeks of the New Year shall find me back in the city for the first time since I threw my belongings in a friend's U-Haul, then caught a Greyhound bus back North nearly sixteen years ago.

I keep thinking I'll turn a corner one night and run smack into my 26-year-old doppelganger...

[CabalPowered]

60. It's in the works.

:thumbsup:

[mikelgb]

65. I just made some Cafe du Monde Beignets

from the box I bought when I was there for NARdiGras a few weeks ago.

[Lisa]

67. BOSSHOG, are there any locally-made goods we can purchase?

In order to encourage manufacturers who are operating in and around the city? I don't think I'll be able to get time off from my job until next year, but I thought that if I can order stuff online and push retailers in my Northwest town to carry items from your area, it might help a bit. (The music place said that they got a whole bunch of CDs in from New Orleans musicians, and they even got the hardware store to play them over their sound system, to create more interest ... it seemed to work because they were almost sold out by the end of the month.)

I bought some spices and side-dish packages from Zatarain's, hoping that our local grocer would order more shipments.
http://www.zatarain.com/aboutzatarains/community/

[BOSSHOG]

70. That is very kind of you

www.cafedumonde.com
www.bayoucountry.com
www.chefpaul.com
www.michalpoulos.com
www.mardigrasworld.com
www.margaritaville.com
www.auntsallys.com
www.louisianamusicfactory.com

Your interest is greatly appreciated. This list is of course not all conclusive but it may help you help the city. Thanks for being so kind to ask.

[likesmountains 52]

94. Bosshog..how about Community Coffee? I try to mail order from them...

[BOSSHOG]

106. I hope this helps

http://www.communitycoffee.com/ccc/

1-800-525-5583

I'm having a nice cup of "Between Roast" this morning. Thank you very much for your interest.

[malaise]

68. Next summer

I'm seriously thinking about a trip to NOLA.

[warrens]

69. My daughter's school is planning a week field trip there this spring

I've volunteered to chaperone. Selfless little old me.

[BOSSHOG]

71. Your martyrdom is incredibly commendable

I bet it was a tough decision. How old is your daughter? I hope you and your charges have a great visit. Chin up, someone has to do it.

[KharmaTrain]

75. I'm Looking For A Good Deal...For Xmas

I'd like to see the Big Easy for the Holidays It's been 30 years since I was last there and would love to be able to run around as much of the city as possible.

If you have any recommendations for hotels, restaurants and places to see/do, please PM me.

[Monkeyman]

76. K&R

[MasonJar]

79. I brought my aunt in July. If only I could retire this year, I'd come

down there and teach a year. However, I do not believe I financially can do it for two more years. Then I'll be too old for them to want me. We will see.

[Jed Dilligan]

87. I applied for a job there

Maybe I'll see you next year. We can have an Abita or two!

:toast:

[mcscajun]

90. I don't know exactly when just yet, but I am coming to N.O. early next year.

Absolument!

I've been to LA twice in the last 10+ years, but have never been to N.O. and this time, I will get there! I have a friend in Baton Rouge who'll let me crash at his place; all I have to do now is figure out whether I'm going to drive or fly down, and when to go. :)

[DeepModem Mom]

91. Laissez le bon temps roulez! K&R

[waiting for hope]

93. Are they having the Christmas trees

in City Park this year? That and taking the Historic Home Tour (saw Anne Rice's place one year) were my favorite things to do this time of year. I do so miss NO - my family is going to try to get down there for Easter again next year. Best time to see "all the family".

[karlrschneider]

96. I need to, again...it has been too long (3 years?)

We even like the ultimate touristy Pat O'Brien's! Sitting here with 8" of ice and snow outside makes me wish I could be there right now. :D

[aaronbees]

100. I hope to for Mardi Gras, Bosshog

I went this past February for Mardi Gras (my first), and had a rollicking, fun-filled, though certainly emotional time going from the parades on the one hand to driving though St. Bernard Parish on the other. Certainly an intense time being there so soon after Katrina but I love that city and will be back soon. I'm so thankful my sister and her SO have stuck it out in the city they adore, as well; it can be done.

[tinfoil tiaras]

101. K&R. You're totally right. New Orleans needs to get back on it's feet

Same with the Gulf Coast, but New Orleans is better for tourists :P The Gulf Coast water is icky (even before Katrina)....haha.

[Lasher]

103. Aha! I see the Court of Two Sisters is open.

You gotta go there and have the Jazz Brunch buffet that runs until 3 PM every day. We went early on Sunday, so it was the best Sunday brunch I've ever had. Make your reservation way in advance.

http://www.courtoftwosisters.com/

I had never before seen chilled crawldads on a breakfast menu. My Commander in Chief was a real trooper and tried some. There were mountains of excellent food to sample, and a Jazz group played while we ate. We recognized the guitar player from an event the night before, and he remembered us too. I wonder how well he has fared through all this.

[BOSSHOG]

107. We did the Sister's Breakfast Buffet

one Easter Morning several years ago. Nothing like crawfish and alcohol with your eggs for breakfast. We had a fantastic time and the day was just starting. Roger on the reservations "way ahead of time." The city's music community has really pulled together. They have a small housing community for them and more are being built, although there is the usual grumbling from neighborhoods and zoning spats but it wouldn't be New Orleans if someone wasn't fussing bout something.

[bleedingheart]

114. I was just there...in Oct...it was great

and so was Nola's which is Emerril's restaurant...and I had some great food at Nola's too...

[ClintonTyree]

105. I've been 3 times since Katrina hit.....

my daughter went to college there, graduated this spring. The first 2 times were for helping out during the day and visiting with my daughter in the evenings. The third time was for her graduation in May but I still volunteered for a few days while I was there. I stayed at the Parkview Guest House on St. Charles and Broadway. It was one of the few places open right after the storm and it's a hell of a lot cheaper than The Quarter and Garden District hotels. There was no problem getting around. The buses were running like clockwork and FEMA picked up the tab for the fares. It sure seemed strange not seeing or hearing the street cars though. They're working like crazy to get them up and running again.
I plan on returning next spring. I'll be at Mardi Gras, you can bet your bottom dollar on that. New Orleans is one of my top destinations for traveling. Usually it comes down to NYC or the Big Easy, I'm in love with both cities but NOLA needs all the help it can get right now.
By all means everyone, if you can afford it go to the Big Easy and help the people out with your tourist dollars as well as with your labor. They're so damned appreciative and they're the friendliest people on the planet. It's a lovely city, still, in spite of Katrina's wrath. There's not another place like it on earth.
Here's to 'ya BOSSHOG. :toast:

[BOSSHOG]

108. Thank you my friend

I'll be heading for the Big Easy next friday to do some more "Christmas Shopping." My in laws send me a list of things to get and I get one item each trip - oops gotta go back to New Orleans for more "shopping." I call it reviving New Orleans one beer at a time.

Where did you daughter go to College - Tulane?

FEMA is still paying for the bus shuttle between NOLA and Red Stick (Baton Rouge.)

[ClintonTyree]

116. Yep, go Greenwave!

Graduated in may, now she's working for a lawyer until she figures out what her next step in life is going to be.
I can't wait to get back there, the place agrees with me. I'm a little bit off center anyway so New Orleans is a perfect fit for me. ;)

[BOSSHOG]

119. I'm an Arkansas Grad

but I do get a kick out of the "rivalry" between Tulane and LSU. Tulane fired their head football coach this week (Chris Scelfo.) I'd like for Tulane to play their games outside but they play them in the dome which is not much ambiance for a College game. The University, along with University of New Orleans (UNO) are big power brokers in the city. Yeah, New Orleans has grown on me like a fungus and I love it. Good luck to your daughter. She'll do just fine and dandy.

[IronLionZion]

109. Are the Jazz clubs on Frenchman street still going strong?

I'm thinking hard about coming just for that. Mardis Gras and Jazzfest will likely bring some people.

[BOSSHOG]

111. We park

on the corner of Decatur and Elysian Fields whenever we go and there is always activity on Frenchmen Street although I'm not sure of the clubs you refer to. The Praline Connection is up and running. That part of town was a booming music mecca before the hurricane and from what I've seen during the daytime its coming back even stronger. The denizens do not consider themselves part of the quarter. Its a nifty little neighborhood. Come on down:

Mardi Gras in February
French Quarter Fest in April
Jazz Fest in April and May
Satchmofest in August

Take your pick and let the good times roll.

[Nikki Stone1]

110. Kicking and recommending.

I know it is bad for folks down there. My friend in NOLA has been out of work and housing is through the roof.

[bleedingheart]

113. I was just there in October and spent as much money as my budget

would allow...

Now I am in the plans to have another couple go down there with my husband and me so that we can tour about, eat out every night and shop...I am hoping we can make a go of it...and the folks I have in mind have way more money than me and Mr. B...

[ecstatic]

115. I heard of major safety concerns

They had to empty the jails during the Katrina flooding.

[snooper2]

120. I was there two weeks ago for three days for a wedding...

Was a beautiful weekend. We stayed at the Mason Duprey Hotel(sp?) (North side of the French Quarter)...Had 10 cent martinis at Bacco's, had 3 for 1 drinks at the Cat's Meow. Went to the moon walk, checked out the old St.Louis Church, bought voodo dolls and I got a ticket for being a bad boyfriend (charity thing :) )

Great time, everyone should go...

Seeing the Fema trailers street after street on both sides of I-10 before getting to downtown was depressing. All of the people seem upbeat though. Lot's and lots of FEMA stories....

[BOSSHOG]

121. Thanks for your visit

When I was a younger lad, I could belt out John Mellencamp with the best of them at Cat's Meow. Keep your eye on those VooDoo dolls and don't be shy about coming back. We need bad boyfriends to help rebuild New Orleans one beer at a time.

Bennie Grunch, who is a musical icon in New Orleans always comes out with a Christmas CD and video. His big song this year is "I'm Dreaming of a White Trailor."

[SacredCow]

122. I visit every few weeks...

but then again, I'm in Baton Rouge so I don't usually stay overnight.

I guess the last time I did was for Decadence...