Art Walk in New Orleans Arts District

The New Orleans Arts District is a part of the changing landscape of the Warehouse District. Art galleries, lofts, restaurants and museums have been growing in the area. On the first Saturday of every month, you can use the sponsored Art Walks to see what the neighborhood has to offer. Most of the art galleries are located on Julia Street. To make it even better.... it is a FREE event :)

New Orleans Arts District Art Walk
6:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Saturday, March 7th, 2009
Camp, Saint Joseph & Julia Streets
Warehouse/Arts District
New Orleans, LA

http://www.neworleansartsdistrict.com/

Bustout Burlesque performing @ The House of Blues

Bustout Burlesque is a New Orleans dance company that brings to life vintage nightclub entertainment from Bourbon Street of old. You can catch the troupe performing two shows at The House of Blues, in the French Quarter, this Saturday.

Bustout Burlesque
Saturday, February 28th, 2009
Two shows ~ 8:00 pm and 10:30 pm
House of Blues
225 Decatur Street
French Quarter
New Orleans, LA

http://www.bustoutburlesque.com/

For tickets call # ( 504 ) 310 4999

LA/SPCA animal adoption event @ Canine Connection

The LA/SPCA is having an off-site adoption day at the Canine Connection. Adoption volunteers & counselors will be there to help you find the pet that is right for you. Lots of animals are in need of happy homes.

Animal Adoption Day
11:00 am to 3:00 pm
Saturday, February 28th, 2009
Canine Connection
3440 Magazine Street

For more info ~ call ( 504 ) 368-5191 or visit www.la-spca.org

Video ~ Vintage Mardi Gras parades in 1941

The day after! Yes, I have been up all night *grin* I found this wonderful video that shows krewes parading for Mardi Gras in 1941. Sooooo cool to see vintage images of old floats and costumes. This clip shows the first female krewe to ever parade in New Orleans ~ Krewe of Venus. Another thing to keep in mind is that this was the last Mardi Gras celebration until after WWII ended. The jazz music you hear in the video is by Johnny Dodds and George Lewis.

Krewe parade schedule for Mardi Gras Day

This is the parade schedule in Orleans and Jefferson Parishes for Mardi Gras day (Tuesday, February 24th, 2009).

• Zulu - Uptown, 8:00 a.m.
• Rex - Uptown, 10:00 a.m.
• Elks Orleans - after Rex
• Crescent City - after Elks
• Argus - Metairie, 10:00 a.m.
• Jefferson Trucks - after Argus
• Elks Jefferson - after Jefferson
• Grela - West Bank, 11:00 a.m.
• Bes - West Bank, after Grela

When is Mardi Gras in 2009?

Mardi Gras is fast approaching! One of the frequently asked questions about it is just exactly WHEN is it?!??! Here are a few dates to help you with your planning. :)

Fat Tuesday (Mardi Gras Day) ~ February 24th, 2009
Mardi Gras Parade Season ~ January 6th to February 24th, 2009

If you want to be sure not to miss the most talked about, famous parades be in New Orleans over the last weekend leading into Fat Tuesday ~ Friday, February 20th to Tuesday, February 24th, 2009.

There will be more posts about all things Mardi Gras soon!

Thank you for your marvelous messages :)

As you may have noticed, my online life has been fairly limited lately. I know you have because I've received numerous thoughtful inquiries asking if everything is ok :) You are too sweet!

I try to keep my posts focused on the subject that brought you to my blog and not on personal stuff. In this case.... I realized that I need to let you know what has been occupying much of my concentration.

My doctor sent me to have a routine test recently. Something odd was noticed. The concern is discolored areas that can indicate cancerous cells. Gulp! In order to find out if I have cancer or not, I had to have a full body scan. Now, I'm dealing with the hard part of waiting for the results.

On top of that ~ A few weeks ago, I introduced you to our new rescued puppy. Jasper disappeared from our yard :( We love our dog soooo much. Jasper even has a blog.... http://jasperthedoggie.blogspot.com Breaking my heart!

Thankfully, life hasn't been all gloom & doom. Several dear friends came to town (from Florida, Texas, England, etc), we discovered two local bands/performers that rock, celebrated birthdays, danced the night away until the place shut down and so on. Things like this are what keep us going through tough spots, right?

I haven't had much time for online fun. When I do log on, your fantastic messages are very uplifting :)

I hope to have good news to share with you soon. That will make us extremely happy.... at least, until the medical bills begin pouring in *grin*

2008 Voodoo Experience Music Festival ~ October 24th to 26th

Music fans from all over the globe will be invading New Orleans for the Voodoo Experience Music Festival. The fun lasts for 3 days..... Friday, October 24th, 2008 to Sunday, October 26th, 2008. I can't even begin to list all of the performers you will have the opportunity to enjoy, so I'll just name a few to give you the idea ~

TV on the Radio, Panic at the Disco, Lil Wayne, REM, the Preservation Hall Jazz Band, NIN (Nine Inch Nails), Joss Stone, N.E.R.D, Lupe Fiasco, New Orleans Bingo! Show, Wyclef Jean, Eryka Badu, STP (Stone Temple Pilots), Reverend Horton Heat, Old 97's, the Hot 8 Brass Band, Dashboard Confessional, Butthole Surfers, Irma Thomas, Bonerama, DJ Proppa Bear, Voodoo Aid and Pleasure Club, Fleur De Tease, Mars Volta, the Blind Boys of Alabama, Ivan Neville's Dumpstaphunk and on and on!

Voodoo Experience Music Festival
Friday thru Sunday, 10/24/08 to 10/26/08
Kicks off around 10:00 am each day
City Park
NOLA

Tickets :
$50 single day
$125 for 3 day pass
$450 for VIP pass
( 504 ) 522-5555
www.thetenthritual.com

Video ~ New Orleans Music

This is a splendid video dedicated to New Orleans music. Lots of footage showing local musicians playing and the beautiful scenery from the city. Anders Osborne wrote and narrates this clip.

http://www.andersosborne.com/

Kandye's puppy tale

It has been rainy and overcast in the city due to the edges of the hurricane. That causes night to fall early. It was becoming heavy twilight when Tommmmmmy dashed off to grab our dinner before True Blood tonight. As he approached a busy intersection (4 lanes on all sides ~ crossed by railroad tracks), he noticed cars swerving and slamming on their brakes. Accident? Crazy driver? No.... a small, dark figure cowered in the middle of traffic.

Inching first one way and then the other, but never reaching safety. A confused puppy faltered while cars honked, skidded and sped around him. My sweet Tommmmmy swooped to his rescue! He threw on the emergency brake & jumped out into the street. Other thoughtful drivers stopped to block the traffic in each direction so that he could reach the frightened puppy without being hit himself. There were many smiles of relief. One lady rolled down her window just to yell thanks!

No momma dog or other pups to be found.

Once they were finally safe in the warm, dry truck, Tommmmy called me. When I answered, the first thing he said was ~ "We have a new addition to our family!"

I want to introduce you all to Jasper :) We do not know what kinda dog he is, aside from adorable. Any ideas? Click on the photos above for a closer look.

Remembering our Gulf Coast neighbors on Hurricane Katrina's third anniversary

Today is the 3rd anniversary of Hurricane Katrina. I am humbled by the resilience of those who fought to get their lives back after the unreal devastation of that storm. People who lost family members, friends, homes, pets and businesses in Bay St Louis, MS ~ Waveland, MS ~ St Bernard Parish ~ NOLA ~ Lower Ninth Ward ~ Biloxi, MS (too many communities to list here). Yet, they would not give up! Rebuilding not only their own lives, but helping loved ones, neighbors & strangers to do the same. Add to that the outpouring of assistance and care from every state.... and around the world. It is awe-inspiring!

Several friends in New Orleans are asking for our positive thoughts as they nervously watch the approach of Hurricane Gustav. I know shelters and charities in Oklahoma City are gearing up to receive possible evacuees, in case of emergency. Patients from hospitals in Louisiana are already being transported to one of our medical centers.

Please, remember the people of the Gulf Coast!

Of course, the Red Cross is preparing to help. I am soooooooo proud of my fellow Moonlight (tv show) fans for supporting such an important organization with countless blood drives and donations :)

For those who want to donate &/or volunteer ~
http://www.redcross.org/

Fast Times 80's Night Dance Party @ One Eyed Jacks

One Eyed Jacks is hosting a totally tubular dance party every Thursday night. Enjoy cool retro music at their Fast Times 80's Night! Only five bucks to get in.

Fast Times 80's Night
One Eyed Jacks
Thursdays ~ August 21st, 2008 thru December 25th, 2008
$5 cover charge
615 Toulouse Street
French Quarter
New Orleans, LA
www.oneeyedjacks.net

Video ~ Street musicians playing at Bourbon & Canal Street intersection

Street music is always one of the first things most New Orleans fans mention when asked what we love about the city. Rijbaklvr has shared this awesome video from a recent trip. The clip shows a fun group of young, musicians performing on the corner of Canal and Bourbon Streets. This is a frequent scene in the French Quarter. We have stood many, many times at that exact NOLA intersection enjoying the sounds of street, brass bands!

First preseason game for the New Orleans Saints

ESPN will broadcast the New Orleans Saints first preseason football game tonight. Saints will be playing the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. Football season is almost here! YEA!

NOLA Saints Football
NFL Preseason Game #1
ESPN
Thursday, August 7th, 2008
7:00 pm Central Time
8:00 pm Eastern Time

Dirty Linen Night in the French Quarter

Now that you've celebrated White Linen Night, it's time for Dirty Linen Night! Royal Street is one of my favorite strolls in NOLA. We love wandering in & out of the antique shops, art galleries & stores that line this famous avenue in the French Quarter. A good friend of ours had a wonderful gallery on Royal before Hurricane Katrina. But.... I don't want to digress into that.

Dirty Linen Night began as the Royal Street merchants response to the Warehouse District's White Linen Night. Now, it includes Dumaine Street, Jackson Square & Dutch Alley Artist's Co-Op. You will be surrounded by sidewalk music, performances & demonstrations. Enjoy dirty martinis, dirty rice ~ you get the idea :) The shops will be open late, and many offer special sales for the night. You will see lots of laundry baskets as props too.

Blocks 500 to 1000 of Royal will be closed to traffic turning the street into a great pedestrain mall.

The festivities will wrap up with a Second Line Parade. It will start at Dutch Alley Artist's Co-op ( Decatur & Dumaine ) around 8:45 pm. From there, you will end up on Bourbon Street.

Dirty Linen Night Art Walk
Saturday, August 9th, 2008
6:00 pm to 9:00 pm
Royal Street & surroundings
French Quarter
New Orleans, LA
http://dirtylinennight.org

This year, Dirty Linen Night has partnered with a non-profit called Better Opportunities Right Now. "BORN specific purpose is to provide Better Opportunities Right Now by connecting socio-economically disadvantage citizens with life skills information and resources through education, advocacy and referral services."

www.BetterOpportunitiesRightNow.org

Annual White Linen Night ~ August 2nd

Browse the super fab art galleries in the Warehouse/Art District on NOLA's annual White Linen Night.... Saturday, August 2nd. This free event has become a tradition each summer. Just head over to the 300 to 600 blocks of Julia Street. While wandering in & out of the galleries, you will also get to enjoy live music being played outside. Of course, there will be food and drinks available for purchase provided by 7 on Fulton, New Orleans Ice Cream, Bombay Club, Ye Old Kettle Cooker, Nirvana Indian Cuisine, Cool Brew Coffee, etc.

An afterparty will be hosted at the Contemporary Arts Center beginning at 9:00 pm. Tickets are $10. Admission is free for CAC members.

Remember to save your "dirty" clothes to wear for Royal Street's Dirty Linen Night the following Saturday :)

White Linen Night
Saturday, August 2nd, 2008
300 to 600 block of Julia Street
6:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Warehouse/Art District
New Orleans, LA
http://www.cacno.org/special/event/2008/08/white+linen/

Rain date Saturday, August 9th

Official post party @ CAC
900 Camp Street
9:00 pm to Midnight

Satchmo Summerfest ~ July 31st to August 3rd

Time for the incredible Satchmo Summerfest in the French Quarter! It is the 8th annual celebration of Louis Armstrong. You will be able to enjoy tons of amazing jazz music on four stages, inside the Old US Mint. There are many seminars scheduled, such as Cinematic Satch: Louis Armstrong on Film with Ricky Riccardi and Red Beans and Ricely…HIS! hosted by the legendary Leah Chase (of Dooky Chase restaurant) accompanied by the singing of her talented daughter. All this fun is FREE!

Satchmo Summerfest
July 31st to August 3rd, 2008
Thursday thru Sunday
Old US Mint
French Quarter
New Orleans, LA
Phone : ( 504 ) 522-5730 or ( 800 ) 673-5725
http://www.fqfi.org/satchmosummerfest/

Photos courtesy of French Quarter Festivals, Inc

Wonderful quote about the French Quarter

My lovely friend, Andrea, shared a great quote about the French Quarter. I liked it so much that I wanted to share it with you too :)

I am currently reading Fabulous New Orleans. It was first published in 1928, so obviously some opinions, etc., are dated, but it has some interesting parts for die-hard New Orleans lovers.

“My advice to you is to stay for a while in the old section of the city, sit for a time in Jackson Square and let the old world charm you. Give the atmosphere a chance to lull you. Take your time and wander slowly; look twice at the old houses, they are worth it. Talk to the beggars in the street; talk to any one you chance to meet. The natives of the Quarter are pleasant people and they will gladly tell you anything they happen to know."

— Lyle Saxon
Fabulous New Orleans

Photo ~ The beautiful St Louis Cathedral anchoring Jackson Square in the French Quarter

Charity Fundraiser ~ Dining Out for Life on July 17th

What are you doing for dinner on Thursday night? Just by eating a delicious meal, you can help raise much needed money for the NO/AIDS Task Force. The charity fundraiser is Dining Out For Life. Lots of wonderful New Orleans restaurants are participating. Thursday evening, 25% of their proceeds will be donated to the charity. Waiter staff will have envelopes available for additional donations, if you wish to give more $$$. Those who donate extra cash will be entered to win a stay at the International House Hotel or the W New Orleans - French Quarter. Even better, your waiter will also be entered to win this great prize. *cheer*

Here are just a few of the delicious restaurants that are participating ~ Louisiana Pizza Kitchen Uptown & French Market, Cafe Degas, Muriel's Jackson Square, Joey K's, House of Blues, Marigny Brasserie, Arabesque, 7 on Fulton, N'awlins Flava Cafe, Hookah Cafe, Taj Mahal Indian Cuisine, Eat New Orleans, Bywater Bar-B-Que, Feeling Cafe, etc. For a full listing, check out their website.

One restaurant is having their event on Friday night (July 18th) only.... Minacapelli's Dinner Playhouse in Slidell.

Dining Out for Life
Dine Out, Fight AIDS
Thursday, July 17th, 2008
6:00 PM
Benefiting NO/AIDS Task Force
HIV & AIDS Charity
http://www.noaidstaskforce.org/

New Orleans featured on Passport to Great Weekends show ~ July 17th

Programming note ~

Samantha Brown does a fun show for the Travel Channel. It's called "Passport to Great Weekends." Guess what marvelous city will be featured on her show this week?!? NOLA! She visits some of my fave places on the program. Just seeing the name Central Grocery makes me drool for a Muffuletta

The show airs Thursday, July 17th, 2008 @ 9:00 pm Central & 10:00 pm Eastern.

New Orleans Weekend

Is the "Big Easy" back on its feet post Hurricane Katrina? Samantha's there to find out. Of course a weekend in New Orleans wouldn't be complete without music, so there's a live jazz concert in the Faubourg Marigny neighborhood, plus dancing at a local bowling alley which doubles as a live music venue. Samantha also gets up close and personal with a gator during a back-water bayou trip, and even helps out on a non-profit project which builds new houses for musicians left homeless by the hurricane.

FULL LIST OF LOCATIONS

Faubourg Marigny

Snug Harbor Jazz Club
626 Frenchmen Street
New Orleans, LA 70116
(504) 949-0696

Central Grocery
923 Decatur Street
New Orleans, LA 70116
(504) 620-0174

Cajun-Style Swamp Tours
5123 Hatty Street
Lafitte, LA 70067
(504) 689-3949

Jackson Square
Miss Lena Fortune Teller
Jackson Square
New Orleans, LA 70116
(504) 307-6733

Mid City Lanes Rock n' Bowl
4133 S Carrollton Avenue
New Orleans, LA 70119
(504) 482-3133

Habitat for Humanity
7100 Saint Charles Ave
New Orleans, LA 70118
(504) 861-2077

http://tinyurl.com/63ybl8

Fleur De Lis tattoo honoring New Orleans

A marvelous Nola-Blog reader sent in this photo of their Fleur De Lis tattoo! He proudly displays the cool black and gray body art on his arm in honor of New Orleans :) Thank you for sharing your ink!

The Shakespeare Festival at Tulane University

In just a few days, you can enjoy the first play of the season at The Shakespeare Festival. The Taming of the Shrew begins its run on Thursday, May 29th, 2008. All performances are held at the Lupin Theatre on the Tulane University campus in NOLA. This is the 15th season for the summer festival.

This year's schedule includes The Taming of the Shrew, As You Like It & Twelfth Night ~ performed from May 2008 to July 2008.

Your kiddos can get involved by joining the All Things Shakespeare! summer program for students in grades 9 to 12.

The Shakespeare Festival at Tulane University
Uptown New Orleans
Across from Audubon Park on St Charles Avenue
Email box@tulane.edu
Phone Number : ( 504 ) 865-5105
www.neworleansshakespeare.com

K-Ville television show has been canceled

Many of you have been asking about the New Orleans based tv show, K-Ville. Fox has officially canceled the series. :( Rumor has it that star, Anthony Anderson, is in talks to join the cast of NBC's Law & Order.

Photos ~

1. Anthony Anderson & Cole Hauser, stars of K-Ville

2. Cast of KVille television show

Video ~ New Orleans Mardi Gras 2008 ~ Fat Tuesday in the French Quarter

llarrylane has created a wonderful Mardi Gras 2008 video! It captures the colorful, exotic, beautiful, funny and elaborate costumes revelers wore to parade through the French Quarter on Fat Tuesday (February 5th, 2008). You can feel what a marvelous time they are all having in New Orleans.

New Orleans 44th Annual Mardi Gras Marathon ~ February 24th, 2008

Run or walk at the 44th Annual New Orleans Mardi Gras Marathon. The course will wind its way through the beautiful streets and neighborhoods of NOLA. You begin at the Louisiana Superdome. It will take you through the French Quarter ~ down Bourbon and Royal Streets. Travel St Charles Avenue to Audubon Park and in the Garden District. Then, down the beautiful Bayou St John to City Park. Does any other race have such a historic & gorgeous course?!? Both the marathon and half marathon end back at the Superdome.

They are also asking for area high school bands and music groups to participate by performing along the course and cheering on the runners/walkers. How fun!

Mardi Gras Marathon
Sponsored by the New Orleans Track Club
Sunday, February 24th, 2008
Beginning at 7:00 AM CST
Rain or shine
Marathon, half marathon & 5K race
Phone number ( 888 ) 485 - 2582
http://www.mardigrasmarathon.com/registration.shtml

Click on the image above for a larger version of the course map.

New Orleans Band, Bonerama, to perform on The Late Show with David Letterman

New Orleans "brass funk rock" band, Bonerama will perform on The Late Show with David Letterman next Monday night! This will be their first time on the program. However, two members of the band have appeared on Letterman a few times with a guy named Harry Connick, JR. Bonerama's Craig Klein and Mark Mullins are his trombonists.

OK Go's Damian Kulash will also appear. The performance on Letterman is to promote their new release ~ "You're Not Alone." The amazing thing is all proceeds from the recording will benefit musicians who were affected by Hurricane Katrina. *cheer* You can get "You're Not Alone" exclusively from iTunes. What a great cause!

Bonerama
David Letterman's Talk Show
Monday, February 11th, 2008
CBS Network
10:30 PM in most markets ~ check your tv listings
http://www.bonerama.net/newsevents.html

Video ~ Society of Saint Anne Mardi Gras Parade 2008

22nola has provided this great fan video from Mardi Gras 2008. It shows a bit of the Society of Saint Anne and the Storyville Stompers' parade. Talk about being right in the middle of the action! Filmed at Rue Royal and Elysian Fields.

Fleur De Tease Burlesque Dance Troupe ~ Show Sunday, Feb 10th

Celebrate Valentine's Day a bit early.... Fleur De Tease is a burlesque dance troupe performing in New Orleans. In addition to the lovely dancers, they have fire eaters, comedians, aerialists, magicians and singers. You never know what you will see because every performance is different. Their next shows will be on Sunday, February 10th, 2008 at One Eyed Jacks. You can pick from two show times or go to both!

Valentine's Revue
Fleur De Tease
Sunday, 02/10/08
8:00pm & 10:00pm
One Eyed Jacks
615 Toulouse Street
New Orleans, LA
Email : info@fleurdetease.com
http://www.fleurdetease.com/Home.html

The lovely photos are by Hampton Van Meter.

Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra ~ Festa d’Italia

The Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra will offer a two day "Celebration of American-Italian Contributions to New Orleans Culture" on February 22nd & 23rd. You can enjoy food, music and fashion! *cheer* It all begins with a concert on Friday the 22nd at 7:30pm in McAlister Auditorium on the Tulane University campus. On Saturday from 11:00am to 4:00pm, a bunch of restaurants and stores on Canal Street will offer fun for the whole family ~ street art, food, music and more. The festivities conclude that night with a grand ball.

Festa d’ Italia
Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra

New Orleans, LA
Friday, 02/22/08 & Saturday, 02/23/08
http://www.lpomusic.com/index.php?q=festaditalia

Happy Mardi Gras ~ Fleur De Lis Wallpaper

Happy Mardi Gras! To celebrate Fat Tuesday, this Fleur De Lis wallpaper is for you. Decorate your website, computer background or MySpace Page. I hope you all had a marvelous, SAFE time while you were celebrating :)

Family Fun ~ Parade of the Mystic Krewe of Barkus

I'm often asked for family friendly options, especially during Mardi Gras. The parade of the Mystic Krewe of Barkus certainly fits that description. It is composed of dogs and their owners dressed in their finest costumes. Marching through the historic streets of the French Quarter. The theme for the 2008 parade is "Indiana Bone and the Raiders of the Lost Bark." If you would like to join in the fun with your puppy, just fill out the registration form & send your $40 membership/parade fee. The best part is that all proceeds will be donated to various animal shelters and humane societies. You get to have a great time AND help doggies in need. :) They are also asking for volunteers.

The Barkus Royal Ball will be held on Saturday, January 26th, 2008 at The Windsor Court Hotel, from 8:00 PM to Midnight. It is for humans only. The only canines allowed will be the King and Queen. You do not have to be registered for the parade to attend the party. Tickets $80.00.

Mystic Krewe of Barkus

Parade ~ Sunday, January 27th, 2008

Starting from Armstrong Park at 2:00 PM

New Orleans, LA

Register Online ~ https://secure.neworleans.com/SSL-clients/barkus/

Email : info@barkus.org

When is Mardi Gras?

Mardi Gras is fast approaching! One of the frequently asked questions about it is just exactly WHEN is it?!??! Here are a few dates to help you with your planning. :)

Fat Tuesday (Mardi Gras Day) ~ February 5th, 2008
Mardi Gras Parade Season ~ January 25th to February 5th, 2008

If you want to be sure not to miss the most talked about, famous parades be in New Orleans over the last weekend leading into Fat Tuesday ~ Friday, February 1st to Tuesday, February 5th, 2008.

There will be more posts about all things Mardi Gras soon!

Four New Orleans Theme Desktop Wallpapers

Every now & then we post some New Orleans theme wallpapers you can use for inspiration. They are quite popular. So today, we thought we would give you four new backgrounds to enjoy. OK... actually we needed to clear-up some space on our computer. But we really think you'll like them anyway, ha ha!

The first two images are some amazing architectural details you see on all the best buildings in NOLA. New Orleans is known for amazing homes and buildings. One graphic is a beautiful entrance gate with a gold Fleur De Lis. The 2nd photo wallpaper is a very famous landmark sign that is right in front of the Cafe Du Monde (Jackson Square location). Mmmmm.... beignets!

Next, to kind of change gears, we thought we would do a wallpaper presenting some grand historical value. It's a map of Olde New Orleans from 1728. Wow, a 280 year old map!

The last wallpaper is one of my favorites. It's a vintage postcard of the Old Absinthe House ~ a very famous building in the French Quarter. It looks like a colored black & white photo with a great "Vintage Look".

We hope you enjoy these FREE, New Orleans computer desktop backgrounds! :) Please... consider using them to brighten your PC/Mac desktop themes, websites, Facebook page or use in a MySpace Layout. Simply, click on any of the images above for larger versions to save and use.

Christmas Lights ~ Celebration in the Oaks at City Park

It is time for City Park's annual, spectacular Celebration in the Oaks! This is a tradition in NOLA. Amazing Christmas light displays and musical performances will be on view. You can visit nightly through December 30th, 2007 ~ except for X-mas eve and day when it will be closed.

Celebration in the Oaks

City Park

New Orleans, LA

Tickets :

$6.00

Children under 3 years of age admitted free

Friends of City Park also get free admission

Hours :

Sunday to Thursday 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM

Friday & Saturday 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM

Video of legendary Jazz man Punch Miller

Klikonojazz kindly put this amazing video of Punch Miller on YouTube. It captures Punch walking through the French Quarter to Preservation Hall, then playing and singing Sister Kate. Awesome!

A bit about the legendary Jazz trumpet playing musician..... Ernest "Kid Punch" Miller (1894 to 1971) was born in Louisiana. Lived in New Orleans and Chicago. He played with many famous musicians, such as Kid Ory & Jelly Roll Morton. A touching documentary entitled Til the Butcher Cuts Him Down was filmed about him in 1971 ~ the same year he died.

Postcard with Aerial View of New Orleans

This is a cool, vintage postcard from 1939 ~ titled Aeroplane View of New Orleans, LA. I like the perspective of the bends in the Mississippi River winding through the Crescent City. Great aerial view! Click on the image above for a larger version of the postcard.

City Park Carousel Reopening November 23rd

Hurricane Katrina drowned City Park's historic Carousel in around 10 inches of water for three weeks. After two years of painstaking restoration, the 101 year old beauty will reopen on Friday, November 23rd, 2007!

St Charles Streetcar New Orleans photo wallpaper

In honor of service returning, here is a St Charles Streetcar photo wallpaper for you! It is great to see one of the icons of New Orleans back up and running. The St Charles Avenue service began in 1835. Currently, the line is from Canal St to Napoleon. It will operate daily from 5:27 AM to 11:55 PM for the low fare of $1.25.

Click on the picture above for a bigger version of the image to use as your computer desktop background, MySpace layout, website graphic and so on :)

Another Lovely Fleur De Lis Tattoo

Here is a great close up photo of a lovely Fleur De Lis tattoo! :)

BOO!!!

Love this photo ~ he definitely has the spirit! Pushing a shopping cart of pumpkins through the storied New Orleans streets of the French Quarter. HAPPY HALLOWEEN to all :)

Halloween at the Hive!

The Hornets are back home in NOLA! Halloween night is the home opener at the New Orleans Arena. There will also be trick or treating for the kiddos, a costume contest (with $500 for 1st place) and a free t-shirt for every fan in attendance.

Tyson Chandler, Chris Paul ~ CP3 and the gang will be taking on Mike Bibby and the rest of the Sacramento Kings.

Halloween at the Hive!
NBA Basketball
Hornets vs Kings
Wednesday, October 31st, 2007
7:00 PM
New Orleans Arena
1501 Girod Street
New Orleans, LA

( 504 ) 525-HOOP

Halloween Night at the Mortuary!

"Funeral home gone amok!" The Mortuary is a great place to celebrate Halloween night! Doors open at 7:00 PM tonight. They will stay open as long as their guests can stand it.

Tickets go on sale at 6:30 PM. General admission is $20. If you don't want to wait in the long lines, you can purchase VIP tickets for $30. You can also get online coupons through their website. We like discounts :) Just provide your email address and they will send you a printable coupon!

The Mortuary Haunted House
Halloween Night
October 31st, 2007
7:00 PM until at least 11:30 PM
4800 Canal Street
(Bernadotte St @ Canal)
New Orleans, LA

Website : www.themortuary.net

Parking : Limited valet parking at the door. Free off street parking on Canal Street. Or, offsite parking is available at the Delgado City Park Avenue lot, with bus service back & forth to the haunted house for $5.

Update on Dooky Chase's Restaurant Reopening

A little update for everyone regarding Dooky Chase's Restaurant. You can now get their yummy food to go! Pick up your take out order! The dining room is still not open yet for dine in. However, it is available for special occasions, family gatherings after funerals, etc. In fact, Chef Leah and staff feed President Bush on his recent trip to New Orleans in August. Word is they hope to offer full service in the next month or so.

Dooky Chase's Restaurant

2301 Orleans Avenue

( 504 ) 821-0535

New Orleans City Skyline and Vintage Postcard Wallpapers

For your viewing enjoyment ~ two ever-so-delightful "New Orleans Theme" desktop background wallpapers! :)

The 1st wallpaper is a scenic photo sent in to us by a loyal Nola-Blog reader named Jack. Jack said, "this is a awesome NOLA city skyline photograph taken at night." He wasn't lying! Thanks Jack!!

The next wallpaper is a replica of a vintage postcard style logo from the 1940's. It's for the great city of New Orleans & features a lot of the famous landmarks, symbols & buildings ~ like the Saint Louis Cathedral, Magnolia Blossom, Andrew Jackson Monument & the French Quarter. Please feel free to use these New Orleans wallpapers as a background in a MySpace layout, on your website or to give you something pretty to look at on your computer desktop!

Just click on the image you like to get the bigger version. Then, right click on it and save as wallpaper. Done!

Blaine Kern's Haunted Fun House

Looking for more Halloween fun in NOLA? Blaine Kern's Haunted Fun House is there for you! This spooky event is provided by the Krewe of Boo, and takes place inside Mardi Gras World. Aside from scary, Halloween entertainment you will also be supporting the Greater New Orleans First Responders Fund! Oooooooo.... you can also be part of the escapade by volunteering as a ghost, ghoulie, ticket taker, house guide, etc.

Blaine Kern's Haunted Fun House

Thursday, October 25th to Wednesday, October 31st

Open Halloween Night ~ 10/31/07

7:00 PM to Midnight

Tickets $12.00

233 Newton Street

New Orleans, LA

( 504 ) 361-7821

Take the Canal Street Ferry free of charge! Plus, it is a great ride across the Mississippi River. :) You can also take the shuttle or drive yourself.

Greater New Orleans First Responders Fund

http://www.gnofrf.org/

Halloween costume contest for doggies at the Canine Connection

The Canine Connection is a doggie daycare, grooming, boarding, healthy pet food & treats, clothing, toys and gift store. You can even host your pet's next birthday party at their fun location. If your puppy is staying with them, you can even check in on one of their web cams.

On Halloween night, they are having a Halloween Canine Costume Contest! The proceeds will benefit the Louisiana SPCA. :) It only costs $5 bucks to enter the contest. Prizes will go to 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners. Shaggy's Seafood & Sandwich Shop is providing the food for the evening. Fun!

Canine Costume Contest

Wednesday, October 31st, 2007

6:30 PM to 8:30 PM

Canine Connection

3440 Magazine Street

( 504 ) 218-4098

www.canineconnectionnola.com

www.la-spca.org

Bowling in costume for Halloween at Mid City Lanes

The New Orleans Bowling Meetup Group will be getting together on Saturday, October 27th to bowl in their Halloween costumes. :) As usual, this will take place at Mid - City Lanes "Rock and Bowl." Cocktails at 9:00 PM ~ bowling begins at 10:00 PM. Adding to your fun.... Bonerama is playing that night ($10 cover charge).

Bowl in your costume!

Saturday 10/27/2007

RSVP if you can join the group ~

http://bowling.meetup.com/97/calendar/6238255/?a=cl

Location ~

Mid City Lanes

"Rock 'N' Bowl"
4133 S. Carrollton Ave
New Orleans, LA 70119
( 504 ) 482-3482

Voodoo Music Experience Festival ~ October 26th to 28th

The Voodoo Music Experience is a high point each year for music fanatics. This year it is expanding to 3 days ~ 10/26/07 to 10/28/07. People come from around the globe. Incredible seeing that number of talented musicians (local and national) in one spot. Just to point out a few that have signed on for this year's show..... Rage Against the Machine, Dr. John, Common, Gym Class Heroes, Fleur De Tease Burlesque, Preservation Hall Jazz Band, Bonerama, The Black Crowes, Deacon John, Smashing Pumpkins, Fall Out Boy, Everlast, Zap Mama, Wilco, Hot 8 Brass Band, Plain White T's, Irma Thomas, Sinead O'Connor & The New Orleans Bingo! Show.

Halloween Weekend in New Orleans at City Park ~ Where else would you want to be??!??!?!?!

Voodoo Music Experience Festival 2007
Friday thru Sunday
October 26th, 27th and 28th
City Park (near Lelong Avenue)
New Orleans, LA

Above is a map of the festival grounds. Click on it to see a bigger, easier to read version.

Vintage New Orleans Postcard of Jackson Square from 1938

The colors on this vintage NOLA postcard of Jackson Square (originally the Place d' Armes) are simply lovely! It is from 1938. Notice that all the buildings ~ St Louis Cathedral, Cabildo, State Historical Museum (Presbytere) & Pontalba Apartments ~ and the Andrew Jackson Monument/Statue are helpfully labelled for you. :) One of the most recognizable scenes from New Orleans and the French Quarter.

Click on the image above for a larger version of the postcard.

Crescent City Blues Festival ~ October 19th & 20th

Music and New Orleans ~ they are woven together in my mind. Here is another chance to enjoy amazing musicians! The Second Annual Crescent City Blues Festival will take place on Friday, October 19th and Saturday, October 20th. Best of all...... it is FREE!

Sooooo many great singers and bands will be playing on two stages. Do you remember Bryan Lee ~ the blind guitarist featured at Old Absinthe House for several years? He will perform! Walter "Wolfman" Washington, Tab Benoit, Robert Belfour, Marva Wright, Papa Grows Funk, Tinsley Ellis, Bobby "Blue" Bland to name a few who will be singing for you.

There will also be a "Walk the Beat" 5K walk/run to support the New Orleans Police and Justice Foundation for all you healthy people. ha! Entry fee is $20 in advance or $25 on site. Runners & walkers will receive a complimentary commemorative T-shirt. Race starts at 9:00 AM. The festival is presented by the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation.

2nd Annual Crescent City Blues Festival

Free of charge!

Friday & Saturday

10/19/2007 & 10/20/2007

Lafayette Square Park

Across from Gallier Hall on St. Charles Avenue

Music starts @ 4:00 PM Friday & 11:30 AM Saturday

Bywater Art Market on the 3rd Saturday of each month

The next Bywater Art Market will be on Saturday, October 20th. It is held on the 3rd Saturday of each month. Paintings, jewelry, photography, scarves, sculptures, drawings, watercolors, garments and much more. There will be book signings by local authors Brad Benischeck and Ken Foster. Live music and food as well. Artists are also encouraged to apply to show your work!

Bywater Art Market

Saturday ~ 10/20/07

Markey Park

Royal Street and Peity Street

9:00 AM to 4:00 PM

( 504 ) 944-7900

Email : BywaterArtMarket@aol.com

Schedule for the rest of 2007 ~ November 17th and December 15th

New Orleans Desktop Wallpapers : Street Scene & Natchez Steamboat

Yes, you got here just in time! Ha Ha, Here's some really wonderful New Orleans desktop wallpapers you can use in a MySpace layout or just to change your computer desktop background. The 1st image is in color & shows the famous Natchez Steamboat... docked & ready for passengers. It's not a true New Orleans experience without booking a ride on one of these babies ~ taking a ride on the mighty Mississippi River. The next NOLA wallpaper is a classic black & white photo showing a street band scene in the French Quarter. You'll see musicians like these every time you go. They're everywhere & it's just one of the charming things about this city....the great music! :)

Remember ~ we have another site dedicated to free, New Orleans themed wallpapers and images. Just click the link on the left side of this blog!

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VW Jetta commercial filmed in New Orleans

Volkswagen has some of the best commercials. Usually very witty & entertaining. This one is my absolute favorite. Bet you can't guess why?!! ha! It is called "Synchronicity" and came out in 1999 to promote the new 2000 VW Jetta. The ad was filmed on the rain soaked streets of the French Quarter ~ which couldn't be more perfect in my view. :) Music by DJ Master Cylinder. Speaking of music, how funny is it to see the passenger put in a cassette tape. Old school my friends!

"Art for Arts' Sake" ~ October 6, 2007

"Art for Arts' Sake" the annual Art Crawl event is this Saturday, October 6th! From 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM. There are so many exciting artists, bands, galleries, restaurants and shops involved ~ it is impossible to describe it all. However, I will do my best for you. :)

You have to experience the 30 + art openings throughout the evening & the city. The French Quarter, Julia Street, Magazine Street and the Contemporary Arts Center are the hot spots. No matter what type of work you fancy ~ classical, sculpture, photography, jewelry or contemporary ~ you are sure to find it.

There will be a street party in the 300 to 600 blocks of Julia Street! Cash bars, music from the Panorama Jazz Band and food provided by Table One, Nirvana, Slice, Byblos, Riche by Todd English and La Divina Gelateria.

The best part? It is FREE to wander in & out of the galleries, antique shops, join in the street party crowd, etc.

Over at the Contemporary Arts Center, there will be several exhibitions ~ including the opening of a new Willie Birch show. (We really like his artwork.) It all starts @ 6:00 pm. The admission is $10, or free if you are a CAC member. The price of admission also grants you entry to the "Hot Jazz" afterparty from 7:00 to Midnight. The New Orleans Jazz Vipers, Pinstripe Brass Band and Thelonious Monk Institute of Jazz will be playing.

Free shuttle service between Magazine St, CAC, Julia St and Camp St from 6:00 to 10:00 PM.

More Info ~
( 504 ) 528 - 3805
www.cacno.org

Cool New Orleans & Fleur De Lis Tattoo

A beautiful, colorful tattoo ~ featuring "NOLA," a Fleur de Lis, skull and crescent, among other images. This lovely piece of body art belongs to James Hand. :) Feel free to share your New Orleans artwork with us too..... paintings, drawings, tattoos, photos, etc!

Mid-City Lanes "Rock N Bowl"

Mid-City Lanes "Rock N Bowl" is a great place to go for a fun night out! Even if you don't bowl :) The music is incredible! A great place to enjoy live bands. Some people just go to dance and eat the surprisingly yummy food from the late night kitchen. The cover charge is usually only around $5 or $10! We've spent a lot more than that at clubs in many cities without having nearly as much fun. Of course, you can also enjoy the bowling part of "Rock and Bowl." Mid City Lanes originally opened in 1941. It has that great old school charm! You can have parties at the bowling alley. Also, musicians who are interested in performing there can contact them as well.

"Rock 'N' Bowl"

Open Tuesday thru Saturday Nights @ 5:00 PM

4133 S. Carrollton Ave

New Orleans, LA 70119

( 504 ) 482-3482

www.rockandbowl.com

Does Tawny Cypress look familiar?

While watching "K-Ville" did you find yourself thinking ~ "Where have I seen her before???" If you have watched the tv series "Heroes" then you do recognize Tawny Cypress. Tawny played Simone Deveaux on that fan favorite.... may she rest in peace!

Now, she is part of the Kville cast as New Orleans police officer Ginger "Love Tap" LeBeau. Hmmmm.... is it just a coincidence that her old show & new show air opposite each other? :) Same exact day & time (Monday @ 8:00 PM CST). Interesting!

Tawny has also appeared on "Third Watch," "Love Monkey," "All My Children" and in the film "Autumn in New York" just to name a few.

By the way ~ if you have somehow managed to miss K-Ville's pilot episode, or just want to see it again, Fox is rebroadcasting it tomorrow night. That is Friday, September 28th @ 8:00 PM CST.

Crescent City Farmers Market ~ Every Tuesday & Saturday

Fruits, vegetables, fresh cut flowers, seafood, bedding plants, dairy products, pies, bread and much much more can be found at the Crescent City Farmers Market. Buy your food straight from the baker, farmer & fisherman. Tons more fun then going to the boring grocery store! :) And, your money is supporting local, independent business people!

Tuesday Market

9:00 AM to 1:00 PM

All year round ~ rain or shine

Uptown Square Parking Lot

200 Broadway

Also, at the Tuesday Market ~ Tabasco Brand Products Green Plate Special. Each month a caterer, vendor or restaurant takes their turn at providing you with an inexpensive lunch. The knife sharpener will be there too. So bring your dull knives, scissors & so on.

Saturday Market

8:00 AM to 12:00 Noon

All year round ~ rain or shine

700 Magazine Street

Warehouse District

Also, at the Saturday Market ~ Chef's cooking demonstration, 10:00 AM at the Tabasco Chefs Corner. A great event is right around the corner! On Saturday, September 29th, 2007 ~ they will be celebrating the market's 12th anniversary!!! Join in the champagne & cake :)

The Crescent City Market participates in the State of Louisiana's Seniors/Farmers' Market Nutrition Program. This allows low income seniors to redeem $20 worth of vouchers for fresh fruits and vegetables. What a great program!

www.crescentcityfarmersmarket.org

Update ~ ThrillerFest voting has been suspended!

Another ThrillerFest update.... The voting has been suspended. :( New Orleans was doing so well in the poll. Running neck & neck with San Francisco. It would have brought a much needed convention to the city. We will just have to see what the members of the Thriller Writers Association decide to do. Perhaps we can email to express our hope of them gathering in NOLA. I can not think of any city that fits the word "thriller" more than New Orleans!

I'll let the post David Hewson put on their website describe what caused them to close the Thriller Fest voting.

The Thrillerfest poll is now offline
Written by David Hewson
Tuesday, 25 September 2007

"Sorry folks but our poll on where Thrillerfest should be staged in 2009 has had to be taken offline after someone or something decided to try load the results by voting around the admittedly primitive measures we had in place against double voting. The figures you saw over the last few days, in which more than 300 votes appeared to be cast for one particular location, were, sadly, not a reflection of the general feelings on this matter.

Sorry about this but it is easier to take the thing offline rather than leave it open to abuse. This was very much an exercise to gauge opinion. There are many factors to take into account before a location for 2009, and the genuine feelings expressed in the poll - which we can gauge from the figures before it got attacked - are among them."

FORE! Recovery Golf Tournament on Columbus Day

"FORE! Recovery" Golf Tournament is being held on Monday, October 8th, 2007 ~ Columbus Day Weekend! Play will benefit Grace House & Bridge House, which offer treatment to those who are trying to rid themselves of various addictions. We have many friends who are golf fans. One in particular has won several tournaments. They love to play anytime, but especially enjoy it when they know it is for a great cause.

Stonebridge Golf and Country Club, of New Orleans, will host this event. The tournament is a scramble format. Food, awards for the longest drive (male & female winners), raffle, more food and more awards. :)

Inaugural FORE! Recovery Golf Tournament
Stonebridge Club
Gretna, LA
Monday, October 8th, 2007
Columbus Day 10/08/07
8:00 AM & 1:30 PM Tee Times
Scramble Format

Contact :
Millie Harris ( 504 ) 899-2423 XT 12
www.gracehouseneworleans.org
Wayne ( 504 ) 522-2124 XT 13
www.stonebridgegolfofno.com

Thriller Fest voting update!

Please, remember to cast your vote every day to have NOLA host "Thriller Fest!" New Orleans has been the leader in the poll for weeks. However, I just checked the results @ the Thriller Writers' website. San Francisco has inched ahead of us! Right now, San Fran has 552 votes (37.3%) vs NOLA with 544 votes (36.8%). So close! Fortunately, we have a long time to go before the final count. We just don't want to let it get away from us by thinking "we have plenty of time!"

Tell everyone you know to vote daily! :)

www.thrillerwriters.org

Special Absolut Vodka flavor created to benefit NOLA

Absolut (R) Vodka has created a special edition mango and spicy black pepper flavored elixir in honor of New Orleans. They will donate 100% of the sales to various Gulf Coast charities ~ for example, Tipitina's Foundation, the Louisiana Restaurant Association, Hands on Gulf Coast and New Orleans Area Habitat for Humanity. Of course, this fundraiser is only for those of us who are of drinking age. :)

Cheers to Absolut!!!

www.absolut.com/neworleans

"Love in the Garden" on September 28, 2007

Each year, the New Orleans Museum of Art hosts the "Love in the Garden" fundraiser right next door in the Besthoff Sculpture Garden. The event is used to raise money for further restoration of the Garden which was heavily damaged by Hurricane Katrina. Also, it will bring attention to the museum & help rebuild membership.

Of course, "Love" refers to the famous piece created by artist/sculptor Robert Indiana. When you attend the party, you will experience dancing under the stars and those gorgeous live oak trees ~ as well as FOOD provided by 30 NOLA restaurants including Cafe Degas, Court of Two Sisters & Ralph's on the Park. You will see artwork by Fernando Botero, Claes Oldenburg, Henry Moore, Deborah Butterfield, Pierre Auguste Renoir, Barbara Hepworth, Lynn Chadwick, Isamu Noguchi and many more.

"Love in the Garden"

Attire : Dressy Casual

New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA)

Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden

Friday, September 28th, 2007

7:00 PM to 11:00 PM

City Park

New Orleans, LA

In the event of rain, the fun will move to the Great Hall inside the museum.

Tickets ( 504 ) 658 -4121

www.noma.org/lovetickets.html

Another chance to see the 1st episode of K-Ville

Lots of interest in K-Ville to say the least! For those who sent messages that you missed it, you are in luck. Fox is showing an encore presentation of the pilot episode tonight.

K-Ville ~ Rebroadcast of first episode

Tuesday, September 18th, 2007

8:00 PM (CST)

Fox Network

A majority of the comments I've heard so far have been fairly positive (some even glowing). Here's a link to what Dave Walker @ the Times Picayune thought about Kville. Agree? Disagree?

http://blog.nola.com/davewalker/2007/09/kville_a_clicheriddled_but_not.html

Lucky Dogs, Anyone?!?!!?

When I see the "Lucky Dogs" carts, I know for sure that I am in New Orleans! :)

Reminder! "K-Ville" makes TV debut tomorrow on Fox

Hey! Just a reminder..... "K-Ville" will make its television debut tomorrow night on Fox. Friends are getting together for a watch party. A little gumbo, jambalaya, po-boys and a tv show set in New Orleans! I have a feeling that I'll be spending a lot of time looking at what is BEHIND the actors ~ trying to see where they are in NOLA, recognizing buildings (people?) in the background. :) New Orleans is the most important "character" for me in Kville.

K-Ville TV Show ~ Pilot Episode
Monday, September 17th, 2007
8 PM (CST)
Fox Network

Bring "Thriller Fest" to NOLA ~ Vote Daily

International Thriller Writers, Inc is an organization of ~ you guessed it ~ thriller writers. :) Founded in June 2004 at Poison Pen Bookstore of Scottsdale, AZ.... by Barbara Peters and her 7 invited authors. In just a few short years, it has expanded into a well regarded association of amazing suspense, cliffhanger, spy novel writers. James Patterson (winner of the ThrillMaster honor at this year's convention), Alex Kava, Steve Berry, Clive Cussler, Lee Child, David Morrell, Michael Palmer, Tess Gerritsen, M. J. Rose, Gayle Lunds, David Dun and many more ~ to give you a taste of their membership.

"ThrillerFest" is held annually. It is a convention which is open to writers, fans, editors, agents & wannabe authors. Offering signings, workshops, cocktail parties, music, giveaways, awards, as well as a complete bookstore onsite.

The gathering is already set for New York City in July of 2008. However, the voting has begun for their "Thriller Fest 2009" location. There is no city more intriguing and thrilling than New Orleans! We need to bring more conferences, conventions, family reunions (HA!) to help rebuild the economy of NOLA.

As I am writing this, Nawlins is currently in the lead with 29% of the vote, followed closely by San Francisco at 26.7%. Chicago is in 3rd place with 12.7%. Spread the word to have everyone you know vote daily!

www.thrillerwriters.org

Reserve your rooms for the Voodoo Music Experience

Yes, my friends, hotels are being booked up as we speak for the Voodoo Music Experience next month. Several people have sent messages asking if it is too early to reserve their room ~ NOPE! I always recommend staying at the Biscuit Palace. They may be booked solid too, but contact Clayton to check. :)

Voodoo Music Experience 2007
Friday, October 26th thru Sunday, October 28th
City Park (near Lelong Avenue)
New Orleans, LA

Biscuit Palace Guesthouse
730 Dumaine
French Quarter
( 504 ) 525-9949
Email : clayton@biscuitpalace.com

Contemporary Art Center of New Orleans

New Orleans is well known for the delicious Cajun/Creole food, live music, FUN, Southern charm and Bourbon Street. The art world is amazing in NOLA! I would like to encourage people to dive into the cultural, artistic part of the city when you are there. You will have numerous galleries, museums, etc to visit.

I've already mentioned the New Orleans Museum of Art in previous posts. This time, I want to tell you about the Contemporary Arts Center. We have enjoyed their varied and wonderful exhibits many times. CACNO offers a venue for local, new & established artists. Visual art works, music, dance.... if it is artistic, you can find it there!

Contemporary Arts Center

Located in the Warehouse/Art District

900 Camp Street

New Orleans, LA 70130

( 504 ) 528-3805

www.cacno.org

Search and donate money to rebuilding NOLA!

Have you heard about GoodSearch.com? It is a division of the Yahoo Search engine. Donations are made to your favorite charity or school every time you search the web using Good Search! Another cool thing is, if the organization you want to donate to is not listed, you can add it to the GoodSearch database.

I don't know about you, but I am constantly looking for stuff online. Now, we can make some good $$$ for whatever charity or school we choose. :) Oooooo.... also, it does not cost you anything ~ FREE!

www.goodsearch.com

Vintage Postcard of the New Orleans Skyline

This is an awesome vintage linen postcard from the 1940's showing the New Orleans City Skyline, as seen from the Mississippi River!

Click on the image above for a bigger version of the NOLA postcard.

Photos from the New NOLA Based K-Ville TV Show

Photos of Cole Hauser, Anthony Anderson, Tawny Cypress, Blake Shields and John Carroll Lynch ~ the stars of Fox's new tv show, Kville ~ by popular request! :)

New Orleans Saints in NFL Season Opener!

The New Orleans Saints were chosen to appear in the NFL's season opener! Saints vs Indianapolis Colts, tonight 9/6/07 @ 7:30pm (CST) on NBC. Just wish the game was being played in NOLA, instead of Indianapolis.

Geaux Saints!!!

http://www.neworleanssaints.com/

Gambit Weekly Releases "Best of New Orleans" 2007

Gambit Weekly has released their annual "Best of New Orleans" issue for 2007. They list fave restaurants, clubs, theaters, local actress & actor, live music venues, churches, local bands, clothing stores, dance clubs, artists, antiques, jewelry stores, coffeehouses, politicians, hair salons, radio stations, hotels, spas, contractors, banks, reasons to stay in NOLA and much more ~ as voted on by the readers.

We would make a few changes......

Favorite Hotel ~ Biscuit Palace Guesthouse

Best Shopping ~ The French Market

Best Bar ~ Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop

Best Food ~ How can we pick just one?!??!! ~ Port of Call, Joey K's, Clover Grill, Irene's Cuisine, Central Grocery, Cafe Du Monde, K-Paul's...... I could go on and on. :)

Check out Gambit Weekly's list. See if you agree!

www.bestofneworleans.com/dispatch/2007-08-28/cover_story.php

Rest in Peace! John T. Scott ~ Artist

Sad news everyone! John T. Scott, the renowned artist, has died at 67. He passed away today. A native of New Orleans, his artwork was admired around the world. Mr. Scott was often quoted as saying he wanted "to move someone's spirit." The work definitely did so.

The New Orleans Museum of Art hosted a comprehensive exhibition of his beautiful work in 2005 ~ "Circle Dance : John T. Scott Retrospective." We were fortunate enough to see this exhibit in person on one of our trips to NOLA. It was unforgettable!

In recent years, he had two double lung transplants due to his fight with pulmonary fibrosis. Our thoughts and prayers are with Mr. Scott, his family & friends and all who love his art.

K-Ville TV Show Trailer

Several people have emailed me requesting a trailer for the new K-Ville TV show on Fox (TM). They asked for a sample because they do not have time to watch the entire premiere episode that is online. Ask & ye shall receive ~ ha! Here is a teaser for KVille.

Desktop Wallpaper : New Orleans Street Map, 2007

Here's a New Orleans Wallpaper to brighten your PC desktop or use in a MySpace page layout. It's very current for 2007. Just click on the image above. When you get there, "right click & save as wallpaper." Enjoy! Also, please be sure to check out our NOLA wallpaper website for a wide selection of backgrounds. The link is located on the left side of my blog.

Cool Vintage Business Card ~ 1890's

I have a weakness for all things paper related. Ok ~ Ok ~ an addiction! :) This is a lovely vintage business card for H. Fehsenfeld Millinery and Fancy Goods of New Orleans. The shop was located at 209 Canal Street, between Burgandy & Rampart according to the card. Fancy! It is from the 1890's. Most business stationery today is so impersonal & boring. It is refreshing to see such an elegant example from the past. Have you looked at your biz card lately?!??!??! hahaha...

Remembering Hurricane Katrina Two Years Later

As I am sure you know, today is the two year anniversary of Hurricane Katrina smashing into our Gulf Coast. I say "our" because the people who live there are just like you & I ~ their towns and land are part of OUR COUNTRY! We can not forget them or let them down!

New Orleans, LA

St Bernard Parish

Lower Ninth Ward

Waveland, MS

Biloxi, MS

Bay St Louis, MS

Our Gulf Coast neighbors!

We are proud of the people, charities, etc who stood up to help themselves & those around them. Many of you realized that the government was not providing the assistance that was needed. Volunteers, strangers, neighbors, families all went to work ~ helping each other. That is amazing!

Please, remember that our fellow Americans still need us. NOLA has made great strides in the last 2 years. However, there is still much to do. A large majority of the city's economy is based on tourism. The small business owners in the Garden District, French Quarter, Magazine Street area & so on are open! Support their tenacity & hard work by visiting. The tourist parts of New Orleans employee a large portion of the citizens. Your tourist dollars will help people support their families, be able to return to their homes and rebuild the historical, devastated residential areas.

Vive la Nouvelle-Orleans!!!

New TV Show ~ Kville ~ Watch it now online!

From the messages I have received from you my friends, I know that you are very curious about the new show, "K-Ville" on Fox (TM). The stars of the show are NEW ORLEANS, Anthony Anderson & Cole Hauser. It will make its debut on Monday, September 17th @ 8PM CST. However, you do not have to wait that long to see the first episode. NOLA.com has the pilot episode available online right now!!! After you watch it, let me know what you think.

If you are not aware of the premise for this television show, here is a brief description. :) "Kville" follows the lives (at work & at home) of two New Orleans police officers (NOPD). It is set 2 years after Hurricane Katrina, basically present day.

Kville Online ~

www.nola.com/entertainment/video/index2.ssf?content2.ssf/Kville

Premiere Episode

Monday, September 17, 2007

8PM Central Time

Fox Network

Rebroadcast of "When the Levees Broke"

HBO will air an encore presentation of Spike Lee's amazing documentary "When the Levees Broke - A Requiem in Four Acts." We have watched it several times, but will be tuned in again. The film features interviews with the real people who lived through the devastation of Hurricane Katrina. It made me cry, laugh, angry ~ a complete range of emotions. Hopefully, people will be motivated to more action instead of thinking that the Gulf Coast has recovered & no longer needs help.

When the Levees Broke - A Requiem in Four Acts

HBO

Thursday, August 23, 2007

5:30 PM Central Time

Dooky Chase's Restaurant Reopening!

After two long years, Dooky Chase's Restaurant is reopening soon! A good sign is that they recently held a job fair, accepting applications from prospective employees. For a while, we feared that Dooky's would be another casualty of Hurricane Katrina. Unfortunately, the restaurant ~ which had 4 to 6 feet of flood water ~ was under insured. The Chase family worked tirelessly to slowly but surely revive their beloved business. Also, many fundraisers, donations & volunteers came forward to help. They were not willing to see this historic restaurant fade away. It has been a vital part of the Treme neighborhood and NOLA since 1941. Thank you to all who contributed in any way! :)

The heart of the restaurant, and its recovery, is Chef Leah Chase. All I can say is that I can only dream of having the courage, determination and energy that she embodies ~ now or in my 80's. :) She has feed delicious food to locals, famous folks, tourists.... anyone who was hungry for home cooking. It is good to know that Chef Chase will be able to do so for many more years!

If you would like to send words of encouragement &/or donations ~
Leah Chase
PO Box 791716
New Orleans, LA 70179

Make opening night a huge success and show your support!
Dooky Chase's Restaurant
2301 Orleans Avenue
( 504 ) 821-0535

Website ~ www.dookychaserestaurant.com

Table One ~ Dine Out for Charity

Each month Table One hosts a "Dine Out for Charity" night. They donate 20% of the proceeds from the entire day to a selected charity. For August, they have chosen The Katrina Krewe.

Hungry?

Dine Out for Charity

Table One Restaurant

Wednesday ~ August 29, 2007

2800 Magazine Street

Reservations ( 504 ) 872-9035

Dirty Linen Night on Royal Street

This is one of our favorite new NOLA traditions ~ Dirty Linen Night on Royal Street. All the amazing art galleries & antique stores are open and welcoming you late that evening. Sidewalk music, dirty rice, dirty martinis, art demonstrations and more! This night began as the Royal Street merchants answer to the Warehouse District's White Linen Night. Wear your "dirty" linen from your Warehouse District adventure with pride. :)

Dirty Linen Night
Saturday ~ August 11, 2007
600 to 900 blocks of Royal Street
French Quarter ~ New Orleans
6:00 PM to 9:00 PM
FREE

Website : http://www.royalstartsdistrict.com/

Arts Market Of New Orleans - Support Local Artists!

The Arts Market of New Orleans is offered to you on the last Saturday of each month in Palmer Park. Many types of artwork will be available ~ jewelry, photography, handmade clothing, soaps, paintings, etc. There will be food (this is NOLA after all... you can't truly have fun without food! ha!), children's activities & live entertainment. Between 50 to 100 artisans. Admission is FREE! We like that word. hahaha... Get out, enjoy yourself, bring the kids and support local artists! It is presented by the Arts Council of New Orleans. They do great work.

As of this post, the next Arts Market will be on Saturday, June 30th ~ from 10:00am to 4:00pm. Palmer Park is located at the corner of S. Claiborne Ave & S. Carrollton Ave, in Uptown.

Ooooooo.... for our creative friends..... they are also always looking for new artists who would like to strut their stuff in a booth of their own. :)

( 504 ) 523-1465
www.artscouncilofneworleans.org

Vote in the "Campaign For Your Cause"

Burger King (R) made a commitment to donate $100,000.00 in both New Orleans and Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Their "Campaign For Your Cause" (R) first allowed people to nominate charities and favorite causes for the chance of sharing in the donation. Now, we are in the voting stage. The top ten finalists from each city have been posted on their website. Select your fave and VOTE! There are great choices for each city. NOLA - Friends of City Park, Junior League New Orleans, Audubon Nature Institute, etc. BATON ROUGE - Woman’s Hospital Foundation, Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center, Capitol Area Animal Welfare Society, etc.

Each of the ten finalists (from both lovely cities) will receive a portion of the grand prize. 1st Place: $50,000, 2nd Place: $25,000, 3rd Place: $11,000 and 4th through 10th Places: $2,000 each.

You can vote once a day until July 13, 2007! Help these worthy causes receive some much needed money. Tell your friends and rock the vote :)

www.campaignforyourcause.com

New Orleans Scenic Montage Video

This video of scenes from New Orleans brought back great memories, so I had to share it with you! A montage of many different images.... the Mississippi River, French Quarter, historic buildings, Bourbon Street, Jackson Square, Cafe Du Monde, St Louis Cathedral, streetcars, musicians.... including the man singing the song which accompanies the wonderful photos ~ Louis Armstrong.

Go 4th on the River - Fourth of July Celebration!

Speaking of spending the Fourth of July in the Big Easy...... The 17th annual "Go 4th on the River" is a must see! Bands, second line parades, free family activities @ Blaine Kern's Mardi Gras World and ~ of course! ~ FIREWORKS. The Dueling Barges Fireworks Extravaganza is a beautiful sight on the mighty Mississippi River. Best of all, you can watch from the shore... or... you can take one of the wonderful "fireworks cruises" available on many of the ships. The show normally starts around 9pm. What better way to celebrate Independence Day?!??!!

Fourth of July in NOLA!
www.go4thontheriver.com

Essence Music Festival - Coming Home Party

The 13th annual Essence Music Festival is "Coming Home" to New Orleans! Too many amazing singers and bands to name here ~ just a few to give you the idea :) Beyonce, Common, Mary J Blige, Ne-Yo, Chuck D & Public Enemy, Chris Brown, Steve Harvey, Ludacris, Ruben Studdard, Ciara ~ WOW! The performances are being staged at the revitalized Superdome.

In addition to the music, which would be reason enough to attend, there will be lots more to do. A FREE series of seminars with the mission of "Claiming our city... claiming ourselves." All sessions in Hall D of the Morial Convention Center.

The Essence Marketplace will showcase a hundred artists, crafts, jewelry, clothing, quilts, paintings, demonstrations & art. You can purchase books & meet some of the authors at The Book Emporium. The Marketplace will be open at the Ernest N Morial Convention Center every day of the Fest, from 9:30am to 5:30pm and admission is FREE.

You can also volunteer to be part of this wonderful festival. If you are interested, be sure to contact the volunteer director, Anthony Aramburo, before June 22nd. ( 504 ) 410-6129

Essence Festival
July 5-7, 2007
Superdome
Morial Convention Center
New Orleans, LA
www.essence.com/essence/emf

Annual Spring Fiesta and Historic Home Tour

71st Annual Spring Fiesta and Historic Home Tour

March 24th & 25th - March 30th to April 1st

There are gorgeous homes and buildings every where you look in NOLA. While admiring them from the outside, I know we all wonder what they are like inside. Now is your chance to see & enjoy the interior of these elegant, famous homes in the Garden District, French Quarter & Uptown.Twenty homes, which are not usually open to the public, will be part of the tour this year. Along with the home tours, the Spring Fiesta also includes brunch at Commander's Palace and a "Night in Old New Orleans" parade.

SPRING FIESTA HEADQUARTERS

826 St. Ann Street

New Orleans, LA 70116

(504) 581-1367

(800) 550-8450

www.Ticketweb.com

Vintage Postcard of the French Market

All of our family & friends know that we have a weakness for postcards. :) We send a ton of them from every place we visit. It lets people know that we are thinking of them even when we are far away.

We really like vintage postcards too! This one is of the amazing French Market in New Orleans (on Decatur). It is a wonderful place to shop. Many hours of our time have been spent happily browsing there. Instead of buying all of our souvenirs at the stores that line Bourbon Street, we like to get them at the flea market. They are unique & the price is right. ha! You can also find fresh produce, hot sauce, pralines, etc. Most of the vendors are locals just trying to make a living. We encourage you to support them. :)

Click on the image above for a larger version of this NOLA postcard.

Tennessee Williams Literary Festival

The 21st Annual Tennessee Williams/New Orleans Literary Festival will be March 28th to April 1st. Many well known writers, editors, publishers & agents will offer their expertise. You can enjoy classes, performances of Williams' one act plays, literary walking tours, readings, fundraiser for Martin Luther King Jr. School Library and so much more! Since food rules our life, we were especially happy to hear that two famous NOLA chefs, Leah Chase & John Besh, will share stories & cooking tips. Start practicing now to join the other contestants gathering in the French Quarter to see who has the best imitation of Stanley screaming "STELLA!" from the famous play/movie "A Streetcar Named Desire."

Buy individual tickets for certain classes, plays, etc. Or, purchase an all access pass. Several venues will be used to accomodate the wide range of activities.

Details ~

Phone ( 504 ) 581-1144

www.tennesseewilliams.net

New Orleans NOLA THEME Desktop Wallpapers

For your viewing pleasure the NOLA-BLOG presents 2 wonderful computer desktop wallpapers you can use on your MySpace page or just to brighten your PC background! The 1st graphic is a vintage black & white photo of Louis Armstrong & Billie Holiday performing the song "I know What It Means, To Miss New Orleans". ( We have a YouTube video of that in an earlier post ). The 2nd delightful image is from a postcard of the St. Louis Cathedral in Jackson Square. Just click on the small photos up above for larger desktop versions, then right-click & save as background. Remember, we always have wallpaper at our NOLA-BLOG WALLPAPER PAGE, just use the link on the left-side of this blog.

Happy Mardi Gras Day!

I want to wish all the loyal Nola - Blog readers a very, very Happy Fat Tuesday! For those of you who were fortunate enough to actually enjoy the Mardi Gras fun in New Orleans, please share your stories & photos with us. My hope is the attention and visitors that Carnival brings to NOLA will show everyone that it is alive! The city still needs our help and support in this rebuilding period. Bead on!!!

Mystic Krewe of Barkus

Often, people wonder if they can include their children in all the Mardi Gras festivites. I have friends who have taken their kiddos to watch the parades numerous times over the years. Just stay away from Bourbon Street ~ you probably guessed that, huh? ha! There is an adorable parade which is appreciated by young and old alike. The Mystic Krewe of Barkus is populated by, you guessed it, dogs! It is always a crowd pleaser. This year, they will be parading on Sunday, February 11, 2007 at 2:00pm. Here is a map of the parade route. Another great thing about Barkus is that they donate the registration fees, paid by the dog owners, to animal rescue charities!

Is there a cover charge for Mardi Gras?

People often ask if there is a cover charge for attending the Mardi Gras parades, and/or where to purchase tickets. There is no charge for watching the legendary floats & parades from the street. Since they wind their way down many blocks, you have lots of places to find a spot & cheer with the crowd. The energy is incredible! However, if you prefer not to stand along the parade route, many of the hotels & restaurants along Bourbon Street have amazing views of all the pagentry from their balconies. However, some businesses do impose a fee for a seat in their establishment on the route. They may choose to collect an entrance fee, or may only require you to buy dinner. You should inquire with the businesses themselves for more details.

New reality TV show set in NOLA

A new reality show, that follows high school students in NOLA, has debuted on the BET Channel. It was filmed at McDonogh 35, which is the oldest African-American high school in New Orleans. The school's drama department is putting together a production of the renowned play "Dreamgirls," giving them something positive to focus on for a change. I found the interludes about how the kids live in FEMA trailers, cope after Katrina, etc very interesting. Jennifer Hudson, the Golden Globe ® winner for the film version of "Dreamgirls," will make an appearance in the series. The premiere episode was on last Tuesday, January 23, 2007. However, BET will air it again today (Saturday) at 12:30pm & 6:30pm ~ and Tuesday at 11:30am. New episodes will be shown on Tuesday nights @ 6:30pm. All times are CST. www.bet.com

Green Day & U2 Music Video - The Saints are Coming

Celebrating the New Year in NOLA

Imagine celebrating the incoming year of 2007 in New Orleans! You will have numerous choices for fun. To name a few ~ Beginning at 8PM on December 31, 2006, there will be a free New Year's Eve party in Jackson Square. Fireworks, live music and a lighted ball which will drop on Jackson Brewery at midnight. Several bars on lower Decatur Street (such as the Whirling Dervish) will have free champagne for a gathering in the street to welcome the New Year. You can also take cruises on the Steamboat Natchez or the Paddlewheel Boat Cajun Queen to see the incredible fireworks that will be set off from barges on the mighty Mississippi River. Each ship offers food, music, party favors and a spectacular view. No matter where you are, Enjoy 2007!!!

Reveillon - a Creole Tradition

New Orleans is a city of tradition. One beautiful example of this is Reveillon ~ an elaborate meal that broke the daylong fast after Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve. And, was offered again on New Year's Eve. In French, Reveillon means "awakening." Currently, it is celebrated nightly during the Christmas season at several restaurants ~ Commander's Palace, NOLA, Court of the Two Sisters, Galatoire's, Tujague's, Emeril's, Muriel's Jackson Square, Gumbo Shop, Brennan's to name a few.