Best of New Orleans 2005

B E C A U S E

N E W

O R L E A N S

09

Corruption is Everybody’s Problem

A N

BEST OF NEW ORLEANS® 19

www.bestofneworleans.com

Commentary

N E E D S

77

Music Robert Walter Puts on Weight

A L T E R N A T I V E

JOB OPPORTUNITIES

86

Film Steve Carell’s Virgin Island

111

AUGUST 30, 2005 VOLUME 26 | NUMBER 35

PROPERTIES FOR SALE

103

114

Cuisine A Seamless Transition at Gautreau’s

GW

BULLETIN BOARD

TO ADVERTISE CALL

483-3100

FAX

483-3153

E M A I L classadv@gambitweekly.com

INHERITANCE MONEY

Do you know Kriss Downing?

Have him contact Joe Reeder, Alexandria, VA 703-548-7817

JAZZ FUNERAL DVD

www.healingwatersproductions.com

MAC HELP

On-Site Mac Tutoring, Trouble shooting. Mac rentals for movie production. Call 504-259-2542 • i-net media, inc.

24 HOUR DAYCARE

Pontchartrain PreSchool • 6 wks - 14 yrs • Class A center, closed circuit monitoring • 885-8255

Body Design Riverfront Fitness Priv gym for personal training. 844 S. Peters ( Warehouse Dist ) 581-2639

WWW.FREAKYTIKITATTOOS.COM 464-0053 •15 Years LA’s finest!!

CHOOSE THE RIGHT ACCOUNTANT & TAX PREPARER

ArtEggStudios Second Saturday ArtMart Original art and fine crafts Exhibitors and visitors welcome 1001 S. Broad St., 822-4002 www.ArtEgg.com

BELLY DANCING CLASSES

New 8 wk session Wed, Sept 14, 2 classes beg/int 1, 6-7pm & Int 2/adv, 7:15-8:15pm. Betty 897-0432 or jdkaram@tulane.edu

A GREAT PLACE TO DO YOGA

WILD LOTUS YOGA - Named “Best Place to Take a Yoga Class” by Gambit Readers”. www.wildlotusyoga.com 899-0047

ArtEgg Studios

Working studios and offices for Rent Internet, 24/7 security, prkg, free web page www.artegg.com, 504-822-4002

BANKRUPTCY from $350* DIVORCE from $250* DWI & TRAFFIC

• TULANE AVE LAW CENTER • Stein, Glaser & Grush, Attorneys 2735 Tulane Av. (across fr Criminal Courts) Free Parking *Plus court costs.

Free Initial Consultation • 822-4488

Accounting & Bookkeeping by Computer, Inc. 629 2nd St., Gretna, LA 504-362-6906.

QuickBooks our specialty.

Will do your work at our office or Train your people in your office.

GUITAR & BASS LESSONS

Low stress, high gain. Call Marc 957-6272

COUNSELING SERVICES

Individuals, Couples, Children, Adolescents, and Families • Reasonable Rates Patty Falgoust - (504) 400-5322 Licensed Clinical Social Worker

DEAR MISS “BUTTER”

I met you at the Chevron station. I was in a silver and black sports car. My name is Sandy.

Please call me 504-427-9325

DWI - Traffic Tickets?

Don’t go to court without an attorney. You can afford an attorney. Call Atty. Eugene Redmann 522-3022.

GET A GREAT RESUME TODAY! N.O.’s only certified RESUME writer.

GRANT COOPER, CRW yww@gs.net Strategic Resumes 861-0400

MOVING TO HOUSTON?

KAREN DERR REALTY Neighborhood tours, PDF flyers & more!

Visit www.KarenDerr.com - 800-656-7653

N.O. SCHOOL OF METALSMITHING

Enroll now for hands on instruction. In Jewelry arts $420 for 12 wks. Choice of 4 sessions starting Sept 11, 2005 Sun 10-2p. M, T, Thur 610p. Discount for earlier enrollment 2712 Royal St. 940-3020 www.nosom.com.

O. PERRY WALKER CLASS OF 1986 20th CLASS REUNION in 2006 ATTENTION All CLASSMATES! Please Email: Randy Sylve at que87@bellsouth.net or Shantell Sims Dixon at sdixon22@cox.net for more information and meeting dates.

Painting Exhibition

featuring work by: Sara Dean, Drew DuPont, Susan Neely, Adrian Price, Natalie Sciortino, Kelli Thompson Sep. 3, 6-9 PM 628 Baronne St.

PERSONAL TRAINER

Train YOUR Clients in YOUR Gym. Strength, Cardio & Tanning Call for available times & rates.

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PROFESSIONAL WEB SERVICES Simple to Advanced Web Development Photography, Design, Animation, Video Lightning-Fast Email & Web Hosting!

Info: www.jasdeep.com or 504-301-4404

SILVER CLAY CLASSES

Precious Metal Clay Classes. 504-495-0724

SINGING LESSONS

All Levels/Styles. Effective & Fun. 485-5880.

SPANISH & FRENCH CLASSES

Conversational. Start Sept 8 at Fair Grinds Cafe.

Every Thursday for 10 weeks.

Call 246-2791 (Sp) or 390-6741 (Fr)

Symphony Chorus of N.O

Announces singer auditions. Tues evenings 8/23 & 8/30/05 at Delgado Community College. For more info & schedule audition call SCNO (vm) 365-3056, EDMBetsy@aol.com or www.symphonychorus.org.

WWW.YARDDEAL.COM

BUY OR SELL AT GARAGE SALE PRICES!

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Gambit Weekly | August 30, 2005 | www.bestofneworleans.com

www.bestofneworleans.com | August 30, 2005 | Gambit Weekly

| 3

Herbert P. Montalbano, Tenet Choices Champion

GW Gambit®Weekly GW MARGO DUBOS

PUBLISHER

ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR

MARK KARCHER

GW EDITORIAL GW EDITOR

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DAVID KROLL

“The right attitude is the right attitude, whether you’re 22 or 72.”

Herbert P. Montalbano In 2004, at the age of 72, Herbert P. Montalbano played in a basketball league against men decades younger than himself … and scored an incredible 52 points in one game.

Those 52 points included twelve (12!) 3-point shots. If you’re not familiar with basketball scoring, let’s just say that 52 points — and twelve 3-pointers — in one game — would be a dream come true for many NBA professionals. But Herb Montalbano is one of those guys who doesn’t really distinguish between dreams and reality. For Herb, today’s dream is tomorrow’s reality — he doesn’t see limitations because he simply doesn’t believe they exist.

GW ADVERTISING GW SALES DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR SALES DIRECTOR

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GW CLASSIFIED GW VICE-PRESIDENT OF CLASSIFIED SALES

ERIC COLEMAN

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Exceeding expectations is Herb’s status quo. People who know Herb will tell you they’ve come to expect that he’ll always do better than before. And that’s always been what Herb expects of himself. Driven by a fiercely competitive spirit and a lifetime love of basketball, Herb continues to press, playing in two leagues and trying to best his average of 19 points per game.

MARY LOU NOONAN, PATRICE BLAIR SHARON WOMBLE-DAVIS, MELINDA JOHNSON, JEFFREY PIZZO

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING COORDINATOR

GW BUSINESS GW CONTROLLER

GARY DIGIOVANNI

ASSISTANT CONTROLLER CREDIT OFFICER

After serving in the U.S. Coast Guard, games were not an option.With a responsibility to his six children, Herb started his own advertising agency. He had little experience, just a refusal to accept defeat. His first office was his car and his first file cabinet was his trunk. Over thirty years later, his agency continues to thrive. Herb’s persistence, loyalty and drive have kept clients on for decades in a world where agencies can come and go. Exercise, eating right and having the right attitude have kept Herb sharp on the court and in the boardroom.

If you ask Herb, he’ll tell you that he’s in the business of creating miracles. It’s something he does for his clients and for his teammates — breaking through the stereotypes of age. Like so many other Champions, he is living proof that physical and mental ability can work together and make each stronger. He proves that through tireless drive, anything is achievable.

Herbert P. Montalbano — Tenet Choices Champion

www.tenetchoices.com 2005 Tenet Choices Champions Selection Committee Diana Bajoie, Louisiana State Senate Karen Carter, Louisiana House of Representatives Arnold Fielkow, New Orleans Saints David Francis, The Times-Picayune Angela Hill, WWL-TV Channel 4 4|

Donna Klein, McGlinchey Stafford Mark Singletary, New Orleans CityBusiness Carol Solomon, Tenet Choices Jim Tucker, Louisiana House of Representatives Jeff West, WVUE-TV Fox 8

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GAMBIT COMMUNICATIONS, INC.

3923 Bienville St., New Orleans, LA 70119 OPERATING HOURS: 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Mon.-Fri. Display Ads & Editorial: Classified Advertising: Billing Inquiries: Advertising FAX: Classified FAX: Editorial FAX: Gambit Weekly Online: Gambit e-mail address: Classified Advertising e-mail address:

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Gambit Weekly (ISSN 1089-3520) is published weekly

by Gambit Communications, Inc. 3923 Bienville St., New Orleans, LA 70119. We cannot be held responsible for the return of unsolicited manuscripts even if accompanied by a SASE. All material published in Gambit Weekly is copyrighted: Copyright 2005 Gambit Communications, Inc. All rights reserved.

CONTENTS

L O U I S I A NA ' S L A RG E S T W E E K LY N E W S PA P E R

GW GW

19 BEST

OF

AUGUST 30, 2005

VOLUME 26

GW GW

NEWS & VIEWS

GW GW

6

LETTERS

7

N E W O R L E A N S ® 2005 |

Gambit Weekly presents the results of our annual readers’ poll, and our writers chime in with a few bests of their own.

8 9

9 12

17

71

TO THE

Our readers respond.

EDITOR |

COMMENTARY |

A question of standards

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

100 E V E N T S |

75

A&E |

127 C R O S S W O R D P U Z Z L E |

77

MUSIC |

BLAKE PONTCHARTRAIN |

Best Bets of the Week

OPENING ACT — Alex Rawls on

Robert Walter and more

New Orleans’ know-it-all

LISTINGS WEB EXCLUSIVE — Live reviews

NEWS |

of Common and Theryl “House” de Clouet and CD reviews of The Partridge Family, The Boredoms, Princess Superstar, Chicago and more

Questions about a south Louisiana landing strip. PLUS: Chasing taxes with state Revenue

BOUQUETS & BRICKBATS | They get what they deserve.

NUMBER 35

86

PENNY POST |

FILM |

BALCONY SEATS — Rick Barton on

Andrei Codrescu on Freud, Boulder and tourism

The 40-Year-Old Virgin REVIEW — David Lee Simmons on Grizzly Man

POLITICS |

LISTINGS

Clancy DuBos on a double-edged sword

91

Kandace Power Graves on clean machines.

PLUS: Shopping news and Shoptalk

INSIDE ART — D. Eric Bookhardt

LISTINGS

95

GW GW

CUISINE

103 R E V I E W |

Todd A. Price on Gautreau’s

103 F O O D N E W S |

By Todd A. Price

103 W I N E

STAGE |

PROSCENIUM — Dalt Wonk on Uncle

OF T HE

By Brenda Maitland

GW GW

WEEK |

CLASSIFIEDS

111 E M P L O Y M E N T 114 R E A L E S T A T E 121 M I N D -B O D Y -S P I R I T 122 A T Y O U R S E R V I C E 123 C L I C K

ART |

on Robert Warrens and Cara Moczygemba

ULTIMATE SHOPPER |

LISTINGS

AND

CLACK

126 P E R S O N A L S GW GW

COMICS

10

THIS MODERN WORLD

15

SUSPECT DEVICE

Vanya and The Cripple of Inishmaan

LISTINGS

98

WORDS |

REVIEW — David Lee Simmons

on VERB

LISTINGS

COVER PHOTO BY ROMNEY

COVER DESIGN BY DORA SISON

M O N D A Y , S E P T E M B E R 5 T H , 2005

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mandeville 985 674 1133 www.bestofneworleans.com | August 30, 2005 | Gambit Weekly

| 5

LETTERS “I do not understand why your newspaper dignified the white supremacy movement.”

COURTNEY ANDERSON

Imperfect Storm

A

s a native New Orleanian in the Washington, D.C. area, I loyally read Gambit Weekly. I do not understand why your newspaper dignified the white supremacy movement by publishing an article celebrating the 10th anniversary of a hate Web site (“Electronic Storm,” Aug. 23). I can see the Louisiana connection because apparently this “gentleman” works with David Duke, who once had the audacity to run for governor. But this was a moment of shame and disgrace for our state, where we were faced with a decision to “vote for the crook or the Klan” under the national lens.

New Orleans would not be a worldrenowned city that keeps people coming back for more without its cultural integrity. Since the character of the city is our bread and butter, it should be protected and maintained at all costs.

Otherwise, we become Anytown, USA. If the need should arise to publish a similar article in the future, please be clear on where you’re coming from, at the risk of alienating your diverse readership.

COURTNEY ANDERSON Editor’s note: “Electronic Storm” was reprinted from Intelligence Report, a magazine published by the Southern Poverty Law Center, a Montgomery, Ala.-based nonprofit organization that advocates for civil rights and monitors hate groups. For more information, see www.splcenter.org.

Here’s the alternative

T

he letter to the editor, “Where’s the Alternative?” (Aug. 23), was off the mark, drifting wide right.

The views of the letter smacked of Rush Limbaughism, i.e. a rubber stamp for the Bush administration on every issue regardless of its misdirection.

The statement that it is wrong for some of your writers to complain about the war in Iraq (an ill-conceived attempt at nation building) is a far-right view. Check out the alternative views of Republican moderates Sen. Chuck Hagel and Sen. John McCain. The critical statement that the Gambit “should instead write how we now lose people at a slower rate in this war compared to other wars” doesn’t show respect for the friends of the 1,864 families who have lost loved ones or the tens of thousands of families of the injured for a cause that I can only hope won’t be in vain. The misspent billions also can’t be used to lower taxes, increase spending on education, decrease the deficit or direct funding to alternative/ renewable energy sources.

But an alternative publication does respect the right to have an opinion.

B A R RY F I T T E R E R Letters should be no longer than 400 words and may be edited. Write 3923 Bienville St., NOLA, 70119; fax 483-3116; email response@gambitweekly.com. Include home address and daytime phone number.

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Gambit Weekly | August 30, 2005 | www.bestofneworleans.com

COMMENTARY

G

W

A Question of Standards

T

he awesome power of the federal government is on public display.

Increasingly, New Orleans-area politicians and their business associates are being subpoenaed, indicted or convicted in connection with several public corruption investigations. Among these are the overseas business dealings of U.S. Rep. William Jefferson and separate probes of the Jefferson Parish courthouse, the Orleans Parish School Board, New Orleans Traffic Court, and the administration of former Mayor Marc Morial.

Speculation about the direction and ultimate impact of the investigations is widespread, but there is a limit to what even the federal government can accomplish. In the long run, whatever the results from the investigations, the most that the feds can hope to achieve in Louisiana is to end the illegal activities of certain individuals. Indictments and convictions alone, while welcome, will not rid us of corruption. Only Louisiana residents can change our state’s political culture and reverse its historic reputation for tolerating corruption and patronage.

Regrettably, democracy in its highest expressions has yet to take hold in Louisiana. Voter participation has declined to dismal levels even as voter registration rises, according to Louisiana Secretary of State Al Ater. In fact, Ater’s office will soon conduct focus groups to identify the sources of voter apathy so that lawmakers may consider changing state election laws. Statutory changes may help somewhat, but much more will be needed to improve Louisiana’s business climate and quality of life. To do that, we need a grass-roots education movement aimed at changing our political culture. The goal should be a sea change in voter attitudes, starting with recognition of the prohibitive costs of public corruption.

For guidance, we can learn from anticorruption efforts underway in countries around the world, including nations that are major trading partners with the Port of New Orleans. One such partner is Germany, home to Transparency International (TI), the worldwide watchdog organization. Based in Berlin, TI serves as an informational clearinghouse for businesses, journalists, community activists and educators (www. transparency.org). TI’s Web site offers many resources, including: • “Teaching Integrity to Youth.” The 80-page booklet features contributions from 11 countries. Because corruption in the Orleans Parish School District has contributed to the system’s $48 million deficit and the recent layoffs of hundreds of school employees, teaching integrity to children is a great place to start. “If children come to believe that personal effort and merit do not count and that success comes through manipulation, favoritism and bribery, then the very foundations of society are shaken,” TI editor Bettina Meier warns.

“Corruption in education affects more people than corruption in other sectors, both in rural and urban areas. Its consequences are particularly harsh for the poor, who … with no alternative but low-quality education, have little chance to escape a life of poverty.”

• The Urban Governance Toolkit Series features a workbook on how urban governance can increase city revenues

and public services to the poor while reducing poverty and opportunities for corruption. The 201-page book includes checklists that government watchdogs can use to gauge how corruption in their cities affects the urban poor. “This toolkit argues that the quality of urban governance can mean the difference between cities characterized by prosperity and inclusiveness and cities characterized by decline and social exclusion,” writes Anna Kujumilo Tibaljuko, executive director of U.N.-HABITAT. The toolkit is posted on TI’s Web site.

• For businesses, TI has developed the Integrity Pact, which is aimed at preventing corruption in government contracts.

The pact promotes government contracts that contain clauses barring bribery and corruption. In an attempt to make the pacts more than mere window-dressing, the pacts provide for a variety of sanctions. City and state officials should consider using Integrity Pacts to change Louisiana’s reputation for corruption.

• In Japan, the Freedom of Information Center has created an index for measuring public access to key information in

If we want an end to corruption, each of us has to pick up the gauntlet.

47 municipal governments and central government ministries. Media dissemination of the index has reportedly curbed spending abuses by Japanese officials.

Gov. Kathleen Blanco should closely examine the Japanese transparency index when she leads a trade mission to Japan in September.

Ultimately, we must raise our ethical standards and lower our tolerance for official misconduct. For a comparison, consider Ohio Gov. Bob Taft, who wept and apologized in court recently for failing to report almost $6,000 in gifts, a violation of state ethics laws. Taft, who could have gone to prison for two years on a criminal charge, was fined $4,000 and ordered by a judge to write a letter of apology to the people of Ohio. By contrast, Louisiana officials and media often trivialize ethics violations.

An example: former Gov. Mike Foster was fined $20,000 for violating state campaign finance laws. The fine was a civil penalty — Louisiana has no criminal penalties for violating state ethics laws.

Most media pundits continue to say the Foster administration was “scandal free.”

That’s a lie — but people will believe it if it continues to go unchallenged.

If we want an end to corruption, each of us has to pick up the gauntlet by refusing to tolerate corruption in any form GW — or in any amount. GW www.bestofneworleans.com | August 30, 2005 | Gambit Weekly

| 7

BLAKE PONTCHARTRAIN

G

[ NE W O R L E A N S K N O W-I T-A L L ]

Hey Blake, We lived in Baton Rouge in 1965 when Hurricane Betsy hit the area. For this reason, we did not know the full story as to how and why some sections of Arabi and St. Bernard flooded. What part was played by blowing up a levee in the area in either relieving the flooded area or making it worse? And what do you know of a recent plan circulating around City Hall to blow up the Mississippi River levee on both the East and West Bank to save New Orleans in the event of a “perfect storm” hit from a hurricane?

LOUIS A. SCHWARTZ JR. Dear Louis,

You should give no credence to rumors of a plan to blow up the Mississippi River levees. It’s an urban myth. Likewise, it is a myth that a levee was blown up to save New Orleans and flood St. Bernard Parish and Arabi during Hurricane Betsy.

There is, however, a famous true story of a decision to blow up the levee 13 miles below New Orleans during the great Mississippi River flood of 1927.

In 1922, there was a terrible flood, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers told city officials that if they would blow up

W

TM

the levee in the event of another disastrous flood, New Orleans would be saved — but at the expense of St. Bernard and Plaquemines parishes.

Five years later, the river began to rise again. City and state officials remembered the advice of the chief engineer, but sent hundreds of men in January 1927 to work on improving the levees.

Good Friday, April 15, 1927, brought another weather disaster. During a heavy rain, lighting struck one of the pumps, and we were under four feet of water in some areas. You can imagine the panic this caused as people considered the river rising as well.

Some of the influential men in town — powerful, but not acting in an official capacity — gathered to consider the options. They had clout and were planning to use it to influence the government to do what was necessary to save New Orleans. The men sent off a representative to Washington, D.C. to plead their case to President Coolidge, the War Department and the Army engineers.

Stories arrived about levees washing out in Arkansas and crevasses appearing in Louisiana, so the powerful men continued to apply pressure. The War Department had to approve the dynamiting, and Gov. O.H. Simpson withheld his request until he was sure that the destruction was absolutely necessary.

He also wanted it in writing that the city would compensate victims for their

PHOTO FROM NEW ORLEANS IN THE SIXTIES

Hurricane Betsy caused major flooding during September of 1965, but there was no plan to blow up the Mississippi River levee.

losses. Ultimately, the documents were prepared and signed by Simpson and 57 influential citizens of New Orleans.

In the meantime, the citizens of Plaquemines and St. Bernard parishes rose up in protest when they learned the established fund would give each of them only $20 in return for the destruction of their homes. They eventually gave in when a group of bankers promised to give them more in compensation.

The approval was officially granted, and all the papers signed. The site for the dynamiting was chosen — Caernarvon — and Commerce Secretary Herbert Hoover came to inspect. But his welcome was not as warm as he would have liked. He was fired on by a sniper with a bad aim.

Refugees, more than 10,000 of them, had to be evacuated; however, hundreds of people came from elsewhere to gawk.

Most were sent away as the National

Guard stood on duty, and only those with official passes were permitted to view the dynamiting.

April 29 brought the first explosion.

It didn’t work. After 10 days of dynamiting, there was a hole big enough to allow a flow of 250,000 cubic feet of water per second.

When the idea of dynamiting the levee first arose, at least one state engineer argued New Orleans was not in danger, and there would be no need to blow the levee. He was right. A section of the levee on the west bank of the river above Baton Rouge broke, making the destruction of St. Bernard and Plaquemines parishes GW unnecessary. GW Question for Blake?

Email askblake@gambitweekly.com or mail to 3923 Bienville St., New Orleans, LA 70119.

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NEWS VIEWS

G

W

Unclear Landing

A publicly owned airstrip is going up in Cameron Parish, but some officials still have questions about its uses.

B Y JEREMY A LFORD

R

ockefeller Wildlife Refuge is a flat, treeless land located in both eastern Cameron and western Vermillion parishes. When the area was deeded to the state in 1920, its acreage totaled somewhere around 86,000, but beach erosion and oil activity have gobbled up about 10,000 acres since that time. Bordered by the Mexican Gulf on one side and Grand Chenier on the other, Rockefeller is a diverse wildlife area with abundant fisheries and a wintering waterfowl population of 160,000 birds. On any given day, animals of all kinds scamper around: nutria, muskrat, rails, raccoon, mink, otter, opossum, white-tailed deer, alligators.

But as of late, there’s a new species in Rockefeller. About 70 men and women from the Louisiana National Guard’s four-engineer battalion units have been rotating shifts for months at the refuge. Using their own expertise and heavy equipment such as front-end loaders and dozers, the teams have been laying the foundation for a new 3,700-foot airstrip. Lt. Col. Pete Schneider, a spokesperson for the state Guard, says it’s good experience.

“This is what they were doing in Afghanistan, and it’s what they’ll be doing again in the future,” he says. The foundation work is nearly done and soon an independent contractor will come in to lay the asphalt, Schneider adds.

The soldiers are in Rockefeller because the runway is a Community Assistance Project, a routine function of the Guard that provides labor and other services for public causes. But unbeknownst to them, the construction project is a source of worry among a few public officials who are concerned the runway offers no real benefit for the state and could be abused if not closely monitored. Critics include Jimmy Jenkins, who served as secretary of the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (DWF) under former Gov. Mike Foster and considers the project a waste of money.

Other state and local officials tout the strip as a crucial site

with multifaceted uses. But concerns about the runway are just beginning to surface — even though it is nearly complete. The project is scheduled to be unveiled the first week of September as a “publicly owned restricted use runway.” The DWF, which is administering the project, acknowledges it is still drafting a use policy, but officials have already circulated information stating “anyone that satisfies the policies that are being developed by the department could land at Rockefeller.” A small fuel tank for state use only is also being considered, as are plans for air support for local and national emergencies.

DWF spokesperson Bo Behringer says the rules are being drafted by the department’s administration with some input from elected officials and public agencies. A draft policy will be distributed at the unveiling, and then reconfigured based on feedback. As far as a traditional public meeting, where citizens could chime in on the use, there is nothing being planned, he adds.

Henry Mouton, a member of the rule-drafting DWF commission since 2003, is among the runway’s critics. One problem, he says, is a policy one: oversight. “[The commission] is supposed to set that policy,” he says. “That should go through us and I’ve asked that it be included on the agenda for the October meeting.”

Mouton also believes the runway isn’t a proper use of Rockefeller funds. “The money at Rockefeller ought to be spent to enhance and preserve Rockefeller for fish and game and to keep it from washing into the gulf,” he says. “Wildlife and Fisheries’ mission is not to build runways at Rockefeller. I don’t see how this benefits the department.”

THE DWF HAS MAINTAINED AN AIRSTRIP AT ROCKEFELLER since the late 1950s, but several factors — including natural wear and oil activities — forced the strip into disrepair during

BOUQUETS BRICKBATS State, local and federal officials successfully teamed up to get the Naval Support Activity installation in Algiers off the federal chopping block. The group included Gov. Kathleen Blanco, Louisiana congressional delegates, Mayor Ray Nagin and others. The officials convinced the federal Base Realignment and Closure Commission to give Louisiana the chance to turn the base into a $200 million “federal city,” a center for military and homeland security operations.

The Fairmont Hotel was recently recognized for its efforts to reduce and eliminate waste with an Environmental Leadership Award from Gov. Kathleen Blanco. The hotel was honored in the Pollution Prevention Program Achievement category for its initiatives to donate all guest amenities and food items that don’t meet hotel standards to community organizations. The hotel also put a far more stringent recycling policy into place.

PHOTO BY TR AVIS GAUTHIER

Former Department of Wildlife and Fisheries head Jimmy Jenkins says Acadian Ambulance lobbied him in support of building the airstrip.

But Acadian Ambulance chairman and CEO Richard E. Zuschlag (pictured) says the company only “suggested” that the project should be completed.

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Trevor H. Jackson, a junior at Jesuit High School in New Orleans, earned a first-place position at the prestigious 2005 GM Arnold Denker Tournament of High School Chess Champions. The River Ridge teen won a full four-year tuition-and-fees scholarship to the University of Texas at Dallas.

Jackson and 44 other students placed first in state tournaments to advance to the national level in the U.S. Chess Federation event, held recently in Phoenix, Ariz.

William Giangrosso, a former captain in the Jefferson Parish Sheriff ’s Office, has received a year-and-a-day prison sentence and a fine for his role in the Jefferson Parish courthouse corruption case known as “Operation Wrinkled Robe.” Giangrosso admitted that in exchange for bribes, he used his position as the parish’s highest-ranking jailer to steer inmates to the bond company Bail Bonds Unlimited. Federal prosecutors called Giangrosso a minor player in the unfolding case.

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NEWS VIEWS

the late ’90s. Renovation projects by DWF have been launched and abandoned in the past, but only recently has there been chatter about completely revamping the existing infrastructure.

Earlier this year, the department set aside $1.6 million for design costs and materials, and the Louisiana National Guard was tapped for free labor and heavy equipment.

No tax dollars are being used for the project; rather, the money comes from a special fund used solely for Rockefeller.

Those dollars originated as oil and gas revenues from the site and grew with interest over time.

It’s hard to gauge just when the renovation concept first came up, but Jenkins remembers fighting the issue when it crossed his desk. He recalls that the project never passed his personal smell test.

“We looked at it long and hard and decided it just wasn’t a good idea to do it,” he says. “I didn’t think it was cost efficient. It was a waste of money.”

Jenkins also says he became cautious when he considered that some might want to use the runway for recreational purposes. “Acadian Ambulance wanted to use the runway,” Jenkins says, adding the company lobbied him on behalf of the project. “They thought it would be a good emergency strip, but they have all those helicopters flying over all the time and they can land anywhere.

And they own a duck camp right across from the runway as well.”

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Jenkins says he communicated during that time with Richard E. Zuschlag, chairman and CEO of Acadian Ambulance, who maintains a camp in nearby Grand Chenier. (Acadian moved into the New Orleans area in February and now performs non-emergency services here and in Slidell.)

When contacted by Gambit Weekly, Zuschlag answered questions concerning the runway in an email. “When a group of people in the Grand Chenier/ Cameron area asked for our support, our company simply wrote a letter to the Refuge saying that should they be in a position to complete the runway it could be used by Acadian Ambulance to evacuate the elderly and handicapped and sick in the event of a hurricane or other natural disaster,” Zuschlag wrote.

“We do not see any economic incentive for being able to use the runway except to evacuate medical patients in times of emergency,” Zuschlag added.

“In most cases, that is done by helicopter. Fixed-wing would only be used for multiple patients during disasters, so we were simply one of the businesses that suggested that the refuge consider completing a project that was started 12 years ago. Other than that initial letter that they requested, we have not lobbied for them to finish the runway.”

Acadian Ambulance also has a vested interest in air transportation. The company operates Executive Aircraft Charter Services, a private charter company that offers travel anywhere in

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North America. Zuschlag did not specifically respond to calls from Gambit Weekly concerning Jenkins’ specific comments or the functions of the charter service. The current administration at the DWF says that Zuschlag has never contacted them regarding the runway.

WITH BOTH POSITIVE AND NEGATIVE feedback in hand, current DWF secretary Dwight Landreneau has been able to move the project along at a steady pace. He argues the department will glean many benefits from the runway. Wheeled planes are often needed to conduct waterfowl surveys, search-and-rescue missions are often launched, and live fishery samples from other states regularly need to be transported. Additionally, the department’s enforcement division uses aircraft to patrol for the illegal use of gill nets and other activities.

Furthermore, out of all the parishes in the state, Cameron has the largest amount of land area without a hardsurface runway, he adds. Letters of support have poured in from local legislators and several agencies in Cameron, including the police jury, assessor, district attorney and mosquito control. “[The runway] would provide a range of vital services to the community, which are presently lacking, like medivac, Civil Defense, and Civil Air Patrol,” stated Rep. Mickey Frith, D-Abbeville, wrote in support of the project.

Gov. Kathleen Blanco, an avid duck hunter who is familiar with the wildlife area, says she was made aware of the project only recently, but adds she is in full support of it.

The Cameron area has been lacking such a facility for years, she says, and it’s due time it received the infrastructure and the attention.

Landreneau and others also point to traveling dignitaries, oil executives and journalists as potential users of the runway. Everyone from scientists and businessmen to TV personalities and conservation groups have journeyed to Rockefeller to observe how oil and gas activities can be conducted on a fragile site without adverse environmental impacts, Landreneau says.

At any rate, criticism on the backend of its construction doesn’t appear likely to slow down the nearly completed project. Within weeks, the area will have its first reliable runway in several years. At the same time, many are waiting to see what’s included in the use policy.

“You put a runway down there on a piece of property at the refuge and there could be abuse,” Mouton GW says. GW

Catch Me if You Can The Louisiana Department of Revenue is still chasing uncollected taxes with the help of out-of-state firms. Back home, not everyone is happy about the process or the results.

BY JEREMY ALFORD

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he Louisiana Department of Revenue wants what it rightly deserves, to the tune of at least $400 million in uncollected taxes. And it’s not alone — politicians want the money so they won’t be forced to pass other taxes, policy wonks want it brought home because it’s good government, and taxpayers are starting to wonder why they should shell out at all.

Another issue that has cropped up involves the awarding of collection contracts — for taxes collected both inside and outside the state — to companies headquartered in California and Texas, even though reputable Louisiana businesses placed bids on the work. During a time when state officials are touting economic development as a top priority, especially for homegrown companies, some say it’s a questionable decision.

But collecting taxes owed to the state is easier said than done. Only $4.5 million in nearly six years has been chased down using two out-ofstate collection firms and the state Attorney General’s Office. Revenue officials blame the recent conversion of their antiquated computer system.

They also point to Y2K programming

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NEWS VIEWS complications, referring to the worldwide computer glitch that occurred at the turn of 2000 when computers were reportedly not set up to deal with years that start with a “20” prefix.

Almost every year, the issue is brought up in the Legislature, whether it’s through a proposed law or in a committee hearing. Newspaper accounts of these debates date back to the early 1990s, and yet the process seems as slow as ever. Currently, about 1 percent of the total sum has been collected using external agencies, once considered to be a key solution.

“I’ve heard this discussed year after year and I’ve never heard any new or innovative solutions to the problem,” says Barry Erwin, president of Council for A Better Louisiana, a nonprofit group that monitors the activities of state government. “It seems like they ought to be able to do a little better than that.”

While revenue officials say there’s

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about $400 million worth collecting out there, a 2003 state audit contends that more than $1.6 billion in owed taxes is on the table. In addition to taxes being shirked by out-of-state professional athletes playing in the state (“Show Me the Money, June 21), $1.3 billion is due in estimated taxes from people and businesses that never filed and $294 million from those who never paid or partially paid, the report states.

Revenue officials have argued in the past that these figures were inflated and represent only proposed estimates of what taxpayers likely owe. So for now, they’re sticking with the $400 million figure.

Louisiana’s Justice Department started taking files about a year ago and has collected a grand total of $242,394, all during the fiscal year that ended June 30. The office is partly responsible for in-state accounts and its agreement with the Department of Revenue has no real expiration date — Justice can

PENNYPOST

BY ANDRE I CODRE SCU w w w. c o dres c u . c o m w w w.cor pse .org

Freud, Boulder, Tourism

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Gambit Weekly | August 30, 2005 | www.bestofneworleans.com

oulder, Colo., is more like itself every time I go there. Tourists from the Sixties, now in their sixties themselves, stroll the pedestrian mall like it was their past. On a crisp sky-blue summer afternoon, two longhaired boys blew mightily into two long horns plugged into washing machine agitators attached by hoses to earphones strapped to the heads of a middle-age couple who moaned in ecstasy with their eyes closed, prey to a big-time flashback.

Then a naked bicycle gang went by with anti-war (Iraq) signs, a daily event that all locals (except the ones who live along the route) admire. The rest of the fare was nearly unchanged: Bob Dylan-like folk singers who put their own (rebellious but gentle) words to sentiments of social responsibility; bums paid by the city of Boulder to play “homeless,” peddlers of hemp shorts and tie-dyed tees dipped in patchouli; gaggles of teen nymphlings imitating streetwalkers circa 1974, followed by moms buffed in desert spas looking indulgently on any life forms with a yearly income less than their manicures; college girls with shiny new tramp-stamps on the small of their backs into which a bikini string descended like a plumber’s line into a well.

What’s with the very young, you might ask. I’ll tell you, at the risk of having you gag. Years ago, I conducted an experiment in collaborative poetry: I asked several young people I knew to write a line of poetry that started with the words “my mother.” They all completed the line in various ways, some earnestly, some goofily. Some said that their mothers were unhappy drunks, others that their mothers flew to the moon every day at 5 p.m., others complained that their moth-

ers had joined the aliens in the fight to destroy the planet. None of them, as far as I know, declared their mothers sane or useful. Now, in 2005, in the 21st century, I conducted the same experiment with new students. Without exception, they all loved their mothers. One girl did yoga with her mom and went through fire-purification rituals with her. Some even mentioned, without being asked, that their fathers were pretty cool, too.

These kids were a completely different breed from my long-ago subjects. They loved their parents. And no wonder: most of them were tattooed from head to foot, a feat impossible without parental approval (or more difficult, anyway) and were attending an expensive art school paid for by parents who had quit making an issue out of the uses of an education.

These young people had no Oedipal Complex! It was incredible. I shouted at them: “What have you done with the Oedipal Complex! You’ve destroyed the Oedipal Complex!” They really had no idea what I was so worked up about, and they were actually amused. I finished my harangue with what I consider to be the ultimate curse: “You are going to be tourists!”

There is no greater misfortune, I told them. Tourists are grown in hothouses.

If you are raised in a suburb where your only natural enemy is the Lawn Patrol, you’re bound to be defenseless when transplanted to a city. If you grow up in the Boulder pedestrian mall, you’re going to be pet food when you descend to sea level. If you find nothing wrong with your parents, you’ll be just like them.

And then the world will stay exactly the same. And that’s O� , if you’re cool with GW that. GW

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TWO YEARS AGO, THE DEPARTMENT of Revenue decided to hire an agency dedicated solely to in-state assignments, meaning debts inside Louisiana.

A committee of seven individuals from different business units within the department waded through 12 bids.

Although local companies applied for the work, the contract went to GC Services, a Texas-based company that handles the Louisiana contract from an office in Oklahoma City.

Why did the state bypass Louisiana companies? Revenue tax director Joy Shrum, who agreed to discuss the topic through an email interview, provided a one-sentence answer: “They did not meet the criteria as well as the companies that were selected.”

Michael Olivier, the state’s economic development secretary, said earlier this year that there are initiatives underway to help Louisiana companies link up with these contracts. But for Scott Jefferson, a principal with Newton and Associates in Metairie, that’s not much consolation. Newton and Associates, the fifth-largest commercial collection agency by placement volume in the Unites States, bid on the in-state job two years ago and lost out.

“I don’t understand why the collections contract went to a company in Texas when Newton and Associates, in Louisiana alone, employs more than 270 people and we surely have over 100 collection desks,” Jefferson says. “We were disappointed not to be awarded at least part of the contract. It seems like the smart thing to do was to award pieces of it to two or three companies and let them compete and let the state collect more to begin with.”

Since GC Services has been on contract, the company has collected $1.2 million for a fee of 8.75 percent.

Shrum said she was unable to provide the numbers of how much had been assigned over the years to either GC Services or DCS because the data is “confidential,” so there’s currently no way to tell how much the companies

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are actually delivering to the state of Louisiana. Gambit Weekly has filed a public information request for the information. The contract for GC Services also comes up in March 2006.

As for other collection methods, listing delinquent taxpayers on the department’s Web site has proven successful, officials say. Since November 2000, the department has collected $4.8 million from the taxpayers who were posted on the “CyberShame” list, and an additional $315,240 from taxpayers who wanted to keep their names off the publication. But the state will need to get more inventive than that to close the gap, according to Erwin.

“We’ve identified the problem,” he says. “Now we need a diverse group of individuals, including the Legislature, to try to devise a strategy and to study the issue. Maybe use some experts in debt collections. Break it down.

Businesses have this problem every day and address it. It’s not just the state. But whatever we get, we need to look at it as one-time money. We’ve done a good job in the past of getting ourselves in a hole expecting the same money is coming back every year.”

While he encourages the state to come up with a solution soon, Jefferson likewise hopes that officials will find a way to help homegrown businesses better work with state government.

“I want to believe that there is going to be an effort to keep the state dollars in the state” he says. “I hear the commitment from the Legislature and the governor’s office, but I didn’t see it GW happen in my case.” GW

Prehistoric Cave Art and Cuisine of Southwestern France With Ice Age cave art expert Clayton Eshleman and NPR’s Andrei Codrescu, June 5-18, 2006 RESERVE NOW: www.arttravel.org – (941) 955-8866

Jeremy Alford is a freelance journalist based in Baton Rouge. He can be contacted through his Web site at www.jeremyalford.com.

40 Under 40 Nominations

As Gambit Weekly prepares its annual “40 Under 40” issue honoring individuals who have a positive impact on the metropolitan area, we turn once again to our greatest asset: our readers.

Whom do you think deserves recognition? Help us find the best of the best — teachers, artists, activists, entrepreneurs, citizens who are changing this city and its surrounding areas for the better.

The requirements are simple.

Nominees must be 39 years of age or younger, live in the New Orleans area, and be worthy of distinction. In a letter, tell us about their backgrounds, accomplishments and future plans; be sure to include their exact birth date, your daytime telephone number and any additional information our selection committee might find useful.

Elected officials are not eligible.

Deadline for nominations is Sept. 26; winners will be announced in our Nov. 1 issue. Send nominations to 40 Under 40, c/o Gambit Weekly, Attn: Shala Carlson, 3923 Bienville St., New Orleans, LA, 70119. Fax nominations to 483-3144 or email shalac@gambitweekly.com. No phone calls, please.

CORRECTION: In last week’s cover story “Postcards from Ustica,” Laura Guccione’s name was misspelled.

Gambit Weekly regrets the error.

3964 Magazine Street • 504.891.3964 • www.totalwomanla.com

refuse any assignment it wants and can opt out of its services upon mutual consent with the revenue department.

Meanwhile, Diversified Collection Services (DCS), which handles outof-state accounts from its office in Livermore, Calif., didn’t collect much more than the state did last fiscal year — $276,611 in all. Yet, the company received 19.76 percent of the overall take.

The Department of Revenue has had an out-of-state vendor for about 12 years, but DCS has been on the payroll for roughly six. During this time, the California collection agency has gathered about $3 million for the state. Its present contract ends in March 2006.

Rep. Warren Triche, D-Chackbay, vice chairman of the budget-drafting House Appropriations Committee, has been a longtime critic of the collections process. For him, the numbers aren’t adding up quickly enough. He partly blames the situation for higher taxes on individuals and businesses.

“So much is actually owed and not being collected,” he says. “The conservatives in the House have seen this and resent this. We know we can be saving ourselves having to vote on additional taxes, just to make up what we don’t have in the budget, if these taxes were finally collected.”

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POLITICS

BY CL ANCY DUBOS

The Double-Edged Sword

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he spate of federal investigations into political corruption in Louisiana has led many to wonder if the probes will help us clean up our act — or just reinforce our image as a corrupt backwater?

The answer is probably “both.”

There’s no denying that Louisiana suffers from a long-standing image problem in corporate America. Some blame it on Huey Long and his mix of cronyism, corruption and populism. Long believed in soaking the rich (read: tax businesses) and giving to the poor, starting with his friends.

Long’s influence cannot be overstated. Even today, Louisiana’s political and fiscal infrastructure is rooted in his populist vision. Homeowners pay relatively little in property taxes, except those who own very expensive homes. Businesses, apartments and commercial properties, meanwhile, get hosed. Elsewhere in the tax code, the state’s unofficial motto appears to be

The state budget keeps growing by leaps and bounds, and our economy limps along. All of which puts even more pressure on businesses to relocate elsewhere … or not come here in the first place. not “business as usual,” but rather “tax business, as usual.”

I’m not suggesting that we repeal all business taxes. I’m simply pointing out how the nation’s business community looks at us. To them, our tax code seems all out of whack. Compared to other states, businesses in Louisiana shoulder a disproportionate share of the state tax burden. And businesses everywhere seem to know it.

On top of that, our state spends a lot more than other states per capita — another legacy of Huey Long. We are the only state with a comprehensive state health-care system. Elsewhere, that’s done at the regional or county level.

Ditto for the way we spend on education — so much comes from the state, rather than from local sources. In most other places, local property taxes pay for public education; not here, except to the extent that businesses and rental properties pay through the nose. Worse yet, there is not much evidence that education tax dollars are well-spent.

As a result, the state budget keeps growing by leaps and bounds, even though our

population isn’t keeping pace with the rest of the South — and our economy limps along. All of which puts even more pressure on businesses to relocate elsewhere … or not come here in the first place.

Add to all that our image of corruption, and it’s not hard to imagine companies in the rest of the country drawing a big, red line around Louisiana whenever they consider relocating to the Sun Belt.

If you think all this is just one guy’s rant, look at how many auto plants have relocated to Alabama and Mississippi in recent years. I have a good friend who quit his job — and his career — in New Orleans recently and moved his family to Alabama. He used to be in the IT sector locally; now he’s in real estate in Montgomery.

The housing market there is exploding because of two huge auto plants that are opening and/or expanding.

He readily concedes that Montgomery can’t hold a candle, culturally, to New Orleans (he visits regularly). But economically, New Orleans and the rest of Louisiana can’t compete with states that have balanced tax codes, aggressive business recruiting plans, and scandal-free politics.

Which brings us back to the federal investigations and the question of whether they are helping or hurting our image. Again, the answer is probably “both.”

They help because they show that somebody down here — even if it’s only federal prosecutors — is doing something about corruption. They hurt because they remind people that we have been this way for a long, long time.

As is often the case in politics, it’s a double-edged sword.

In the long run, the federal investigations are only a start. It will be up to the voters to finish the job by demanding more from our elected officials — and tolerating less in the way of cronyism and corruption.

IOP Taking Applications

The Loyola Institute of Politics is currently taking applications for its 2005-06 class. Dr. Ed Renwick of Loyola’s political science department will lead the 37th annual seminar course on local, state and national politics. The class meets weekly from the fall through April and features a blue-chip slate of speakers on topics ranging from campaign organization, polling, political media, demographics, get-out-the-vote efforts and other aspects of campaigning and governing. For more information, contact Gayle Mumfrey at 865-3548 (email: GW mumfrey@loyno.edu). GW www.bestofneworleans.com | August 30, 2005 | Gambit Weekly

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ENTERTAINMENT & NIGHTLIFE Best Movie Theater

1. AMC Elmwood Palace 20 (1200 Elmwood Park Blvd., Harahan, 734-2020; www. amctheatres.com) — Way too many of us hardcore moviegoers whine about “keepin’ it real” and supporting local this and indie that. But then we settle into those stadium seats with our pizza and daiquiris, absorb that awesome sound system, and gawk at the huge screens, and we realize what hypocrites we can be.

2. Landmark’s Canal Place Cinema (The Shops at Canal Place, 333 Canal St., 363-1117; www.landmarktheatres.com) 3. Prytania Theatre (5339 Prytania St., 891-2787; www.theprytania.com)

Best Live Theater Venue

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Gambit Weekly | August 30, 2005 | www.bestofneworleans.com

1. Saenger Theatre (143 N. Rampart St., 524-2490; www. saengertheatre.com) — The grand theaters are the last of a dying breed, but there’s so much life still in the Saenger that it’s one of the most popular places in town. The Broadway in New Orleans series is a fun diversion, and there are also the countless live-music shows and those delightful summer movie screenings of classic flicks.

Don’t forget to look up at the stars.

2. Le Chat Noir (715 St. Charles Ave., 581-5812; www.cabaretlechatnoir.com) 3. Le Petit Theatre du Vieux

Carré (616 St. Peter St., 5229958; www.lepetittheatre.com)

Best Local Theater Actor

1. Ricky Graham — Ricky Graham remains the leader of this pack, whether it’s for his fun mountings of New Orleanscentric musical comedies, his scene-stealing work with the Summer Lyric Theatre at Tulane, or his cameos with Running With Scissors. First and foremost, this new director of NORD Theatre is a pro.

2. John “Spud” McConnell 3. (TIE) Flynn De Marco and Roy Haylock

Best Local Theater Actress

1. Becky Allen — It’s interesting that the runners-up in this category are all new faces in the readers’ poll, but there’s no denying that perennial winner Becky Allen — currently starring in the popular production of Okra — is everyone’s favorite Yat. She is the very definition of stage presence, whether because of her wild blond mane, broad shoulders or those expressive saucer eyes.

2. Gabrielle Porter 3. (TIE) Karen-kaia Livers and Amanda Hebert

Best New Club/Bar

1. Ray’s Over the River (2 Canal St., 595-8900; www. raysovertheriver.com) — This upscale jazz club and entertainment complex on the 31st floor of the World Trade Center opened last April and rapidly became a home away

from home for Kermit Ruffins.

Recently, it signed drummer Kevin O’Day’s All-Star Band to a weekly Thursday gig. With four lounges, Ray’s is an intimate venue with a magnificent view.

2. Masquerade (Harrah’s, 4 Canal St., 533-6000; www.harrahs.com) 3. The Palms (10301 I-10 Service Road, 244-6111)

Best Dance Club

1. Oz (800 Bourbon St., 5939491; www.ozneworleans.com) — This French Quarter dance club was also chosen Best Gay Bar by Gambit readers, but all orientations meet on Oz’s dance floor. Part of the club’s longtime success comes from reliability, with long-time DJs Tim Pflueger, Raymond Mattix and Mary Pappas, and newcomers Chris Finland and Ellis Ranko spinning dance remixes.

2. Club 360 (now Altitude 33 — 2 Canal St., 595-8900; www.altitude33.com) 3. TwiRoPa (1544 Tchoupitoulas St., 587-3721; www.twiropa.com)

Best Sports Bar

1. Cooter Brown’s Tavern (509 S. Carrollton Ave., 866-9104; www.cooterbrowns.com) — A good sports bar must be an improvement on your living room in ways other than that you don’t have to clean up after yourself. Cooter Brown’s has more flat-screen TVs than you do, a more complete satellite sports package than you

do, and more beer than you do. Add an oyster shucker and those cheese fries, and it’s a wonder you ever watch sports at home.

2. Fox and Hound English Pub (1200 S. Clearview Pkwy., Jefferson, 731-6000; www.totent.com) 3. Bruno’s (7601 Maple St., 861-7615; www.brunosbar.com)

Best College Hangout

1. The Boot (1039 Broadway St., 8669008) —This bar at Broadway and Zimpel — spelled “Zimpel,” no matter what the corner sign says — is so close to Tulane University it might as well be on campus. With drink specials starting at 10 most nights, the Boot gets busy later in the evening and goes on until morning — presumably with students who don’t have a major commitment to 8 a.m. classes.

2. Bruno’s (7601 Maple St., 861-7615; www.brunosbar.com) 3. Fat Harry’s (4330 St. Charles Ave., 895-9582)

Best Late-Late-Night Club

1. F&M Patio Bar (4841 Tchoupitoulas St., 895-6784) — The front room of the F&M has a jukebox full of dance music from the ’50s to today, but if you’re there at 10 p.m., you’re among only a handful enjoying them. The crowd drifts in later on weekend nights and stays until morning, either dancing in the front room or hanging out on a back patio large enough to merit its own jukebox and kitchen.

2. Snake and Jake’s Christmas Club Lounge (7612 Oak St., 861-2802) 3. Grit’s Bar and Pool Hall (530 Lyons St., 899-9211)

Best Gay Bar

1. Oz (800 Bourbon St., 593-9491; www. ozneworleans.com) — Oz and the corner of St. Ann and Bourbon streets are the center of the Southern Decadence weekend and gay Mardi Gras.

During the rest of the year, there is entertainment nightly including Bingo and Monday night’s “The Bianca del Rio

www.bestofneworleans.com | August 30, 2005 | Gambit Weekly

| 21

BEST OF NEW ORLEANS®

Comedy and Variety Show,” a talent show with drag queens, drag kings, dancers and singers.

2. Bourbon Pub/Parade (801 Bourbon St., 529-2107; www.bourbonpub.com) 3. Good Friends Bar (740 Dauphine St., 566-7191; www.goodfriendsbar.com)

Best Neighborhood Bar

1. St. Joe’s Bar (5537 Magazine St., 899-3744) — St. Joe’s feels like two bars in one. The front room has a high bar that is a little chichi, and it leads to a pool table with just enough room around it for the church-pew benches. In tight environs like those, you’re bound to make new pals. A short walk through a storage room, and you find a spacious back patio with tables lit by candles and hanging lanterns.

2. Bruno’s (7601 Maple St., 861-7615; www.brunosbar.com) 3. Parasol’s (2533 Constance St., 8975413; www.parasols.com)

Best Hotel: Windsor Court Hotel PHOTO BY SAMMY TODD DYESS COURT E S Y O R I E N T- E X P R E S S H O T E L S

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Gambit Weekly | August 30, 2005 | www.bestofneworleans.com

Best Hotel Bar

1. Whiskey Blue, W Hotel (333 Poydras St., 525-9444; www.midnightoilbars. com) — This hotel bar is as cool as

its name suggests. The bar itself is backlit blue, contrasting sharply with the amber walls, but the centerpiece is the long common table — a place to meet old friends or make new ones. In such a room, crisp, elegant cocktails feel like the order of the day.

2.(TIE) Carousel Bar, Hotel Monteleone (214 Royal St., 523-3341/www. hotelmonteleone.com) and The Columns Hotel (3811 St. Charles Ave., 899-9308; www.thecolumns.com) 3. French Quarter Bar, Ritz Carlton New Orleans (921 Canal St., 524-1331; www.ritzcarlton.com)

Best Gentleman’s/Strip Club

1. Rick’s Cabaret (315 Bourbon St., 524-4222; www.ricks.com) — It’s tempting to talk around the real reason men go to Rick’s Cabaret and discuss its lunch buffet and its classy atmosphere. Those things are very nice, but gentleman’s clubs are all about the dancers, and our readers think Rick’s has the very best.

2. Larry Flynt’s Hustler Club (225 Bourbon St., 524-0010; www.hustlerclubs.com) 3. The Gold Club (727 Iberville St.,

524-4354; www.goldclubno.com)

Best Happy Hour

1. Superior Grill (3636 St. Charles Ave., 899-4200; www.superiorgrill. com) —The Superior Grill expanded the happy hour that previous tenant Que Sera established years ago at the same location. Wednesday nights used to be the big draw; now the happy hour is daily, as the crowd spills out into the streets quaffing two-for-one drinks from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

2. Lucy’s Retired Surfers Bar (701 Tchoupitoulas St., 523-8995; www. lucysretiredsurfers.com) 3. The Columns Hotel (3811 St. Charles Ave., 899-9308; www.thecolumns.com)

Best Ladies’ Night

1. TwiRoPa (1544 Tchoupitoulas St., 587-3721; www.twiropa.com) — Alas, New Orleans favorite Ladies’ Night is no more as TwiRoPa has shifted its focus to live music. The combination of hits from ’80s, free drinks for ladies until 1 a.m. and TwiRoPa’s upscale warehouse feel made ladies’ night here a hit that will sorely be

missed among our readers, who voted it the city’s best.

2. Dino’s Bar and Grill (1128 Tchoupitoulas St., 558-0900) 3. Madigan’s (800 S. Carrollton Ave., 866-9455)

Best Place to Dance to a Live Band

1. Tipitina’s (501 Napoleon Ave., 895TIPS; www.tipitinas.com) — On Sundays, Tipitina’s long-standing fais do do with Bruce Daigrepont is one of the most popular places for Cajun dancing in New Orleans. The rest of the week, people dance at Tip’s because that’s where the funk and jam bands are. Whether Galactic, Ivan Neville’s Dumpsta Phunk or a combination of jazz-funk musicians are on stage, it’s a safe bet there’s something going on that’s apropos for booty shaking.

2. Mid City Lanes Rock ’n’ Bowl (4133 S. Carrollton Ave., 482-3133; www. rocknbowl.com) 3. The Maple Leaf Bar (8316 Oak St., 866-9359)

Best Bar Decor

1. St. Joe’s Bar (5537 Magazine St.,

899-3744) —Working with the saint theme in the bar’s name, St. Joe’s Bar has covered its walls with crosses, some ornate, some rough-hewn, all looking more like objets d’art than thrift-store finds.

Combined with dark wood of the bar and stools, they give the room an air of classy subversiveness.

2. Whiskey Blue (W Hotel, 333 Poydras St., 525-9444; www.midnightoilbars. com) 3. Rivershack Tavern (3449 River Road, Jefferson, 837-7118; clients. neworleans.com/rivershack)

Best Jukebox

1. Molly’s at the Market (1107 Decatur St., 525-5169; www.mollysatthemarket.net) — Though Patsy Cline, Elvis and Frank Sinatra are represented — there must be a local statute mandating their presence on every jukebox in town — Molly’s selection skews toward indie and underground music. Here you’ll find CDs from local groups such as the Happy Talk Band and Liquidrone, and national acts the Magnetic Fields, Crooked Fingers and the Shins.

2. F&M Patio Bar (4841 Tchoupitoulas

St., 895-6784) 3. Port of Call (838 Esplanade Ave., 523-0120; www.portofcallneworleans.com)

Best Place to See Stand-Up Comedy

1. Harrah’s Casino New Orleans (4 Canal St., 533-6000; www.harrahs.com) — When Earl Turner isn’t playing his namesake theater in Harrah’s Casino New Orleans, the room serves as the classiest and biggest venue for comedy in the city. Howie Mandel was the first national comedian to grace the Earl Turner Theater stage, and last month, Bill Engvall of Blue Collar TV performed here. Impressionist James Stephens III currently holds court.

2. True Brew Cafe (200 Julia St., 524-8440) 3. (TIE) Le Chat Noir (715 St. Charles Ave., 581-5812; www.cabaretlechatnoir.com) and Martine’s Restaurant and Lounge (2347 Metairie Road, Metairie, 831-8637)

Best Place to Shoot Pool

1. Cooter Brown’s Tavern (509 S. Carrollton Ave., 866-9104; www.cooter-

Best Community/Environmental Activist: Anne Rolfes, Louisiana Bucket Brigade PHOTO BY CHERYL GERBER

www.bestofneworleans.com | August 30, 2005 | Gambit Weekly

| 23

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browns.com) — Who wouldn’t want to shoot pool beneath the blue glow of countless flat-screen TVs? Actually, it’s a testament to the pool players in Cooter Brown’s that they finish at all considering the distractions. The tables are regulation size and not the chopped tables usually found in bars, so winners here can truly claim bragging rights.

2. Fox and Hound English Pub (1200 S. Clearview Pkwy., Jefferson, 731-6000; www. totent.com) 3. Balcony Bar (3201 Magazine St., 895-1600)

mont Hotel, 123 Baronne St., 529-4733; www.fairmont.com/ neworleans) — This legendary New Orleans drink began in a French Quarter coffeehouse that moved into the Roosevelt Hotel, now the Fairmont. With such a pedigree, the Sazerac Bar can (and does) claim to be the home of this unique blend of rye whiskey, sugar, bitters and water.

2. Napoleon House (500 Chartres St., 524-9752) 3. Galatoire’s (209 Bourbon St., 525-2021)

Best Place to Karaoke

1. Superior Grill (3636 St. Charles Ave., 899-4200; www. superiorgrill.com) — The Superior Grill prides itself on an impressive tequila assortment, and good margaritas start with good tequila.

Getting two-for-one at happy hour makes things better, and getting them on St. Charles Avenue where you can watch the streetcars rattle by makes things better still.

2. Santa Fe Restaurant (801 Frenchmen St., 944-6854; www.santa-fe-nola.com) 3. Juan’s Flying Burrito (2018 Magazine St., 569-0000; 4724 S. Carrollton Ave., 486-9950; www.juansflyingburrito.com)

1. Cat’s Meow (701 Bourbon St., 523-1157; www.catsmeowneworleans.com) — There is nothing like three-forone drink specials and the Bourbon Street atmosphere to get people in the mood to try their voices on a little number

by Elvis or Aretha. The college audience might not take karaoke as seriously as singers in other establishments, but nights in Cat’s Meow are always a party.

2. Mulligan’s Taverne, Sports Bar and Grill (3535 Severn Ave., Suite 10, Metairie, 888-5858) 3. The Beach House (2401 N. Woodlawn Ave., Metairie, 456-7470)

Best Place to Get a Bloody Mary

1. Pat O’Brien’s (718 St. Peter St., 525-4823; www.patobriens. com) — It stands to reason that if this French Quarter institution can make the Hurricane and its other potent drinks delicious, it can work wonders with the queen of eye-openers, the Bloody Mary. During the upcoming football season, nothing helps shake off Saturday night like a Sunday morning Bloody in Pat O’s courtyard.

2. (TIE) Commander’s Palace (1403 Washington Ave., 8998221; www.commanderspalace. com) and Igor’s (2133 St. Charles Ave., 568-9811) 3. The Columns Hotel (3811 St. Charles Ave., 899-9308; www. thecolumns.com)

Best Place to Get a Sazerac

1. Sazerac Bar and Grill (Fair-

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Gambit Weekly | August 30, 2005 | www.bestofneworleans.com

Best Place to Get a Margarita

Best Place to Get a Martini

1. Bombay Club (830 Conti St., 586-0972; www.thebombayclub.com) — Go back and read the category name carefully, because not only do the Bombay Club bartenders craft an impressive array of more than 100 martinis (as touted in that leather-bound menu), but the whole experience of sipping a martini at the Bombay Club is a treat. Chanteuses such as Troi Bechet romance you with their dulcet tones while you lounge in rich leather chairs inside or enjoy the night air in the courtyard, or hop over to the dining room to sample Chef Nick Giles’ “Nouveau Creole” cooking. That’s a nice Club to belong to.

2. Rasputin’s Restaurant & Vodka Bar (600 St. Charles Ave., 561-9261) 3. Whiskey Blue (W Hotel, 333 Poydras St., 525-9444; www. starwoodhotels.com)

Best Place to Get Wine by the Glass

1. The Wine Loft (752 Tchoupitoulas St., 561-0116; www. thewineloft.net) — This Warehouse District wine bar has carved out a niche in New Orleans, offering glasses of wine from more than 70 bottles. Its knowledgeable staff helps guide customers with their selections. With an eye on the before- or afterdinner crowd, the Wine Loft’s light bistro fare is more hors d’oeuvres than main course.

2. The Delachaise (3442 St. Charles Ave., 895-0858) 3. Martin Wine Cellar (714 Elmeer Ave., Metairie, 896-7300; 3827 Baronne St., 269-3792; www.martinwine.com)

Best Place to Get a Cold Beer

1. Cooter Brown’s Tavern (509 S. Carrollton Ave., 866-9104; www.cooterbrowns.com)— Beer purists complain that our bars keep beer too cold to properly appreciate the complexities of its taste. Clearly, they don’t live here and deal with our heat and humidity. It might be nice if the Guinness wasn’t so frosty, but Cooter Brown’s keeps its cooler at 32 degrees Fahrenheit, and for a Dixie or an Abita, that sounds perfect.

2. The Bulldog (3236 Magazine St., 891-1516; 5135 Canal Blvd., 488-4191; www.draftfreak.com) 3. Liuzza’s (3636 Bienville Ave., 482-9120)

Best Beer Selection

1. Cooter Brown’s Tavern (509 S. Carrollton Ave., 866-9104; www.cooterbrowns.com) — Think about it — Cooter Brown’s has a wall of beer. A wall of beer. Its lengthy cooler keeps more than 400 beers from around the world including beers from Africa, Brazil and Slovakia, and it has more than 45 beers on tap.

2. The Bulldog (3236 Magazine St., 891-1516; 5135 Canal Blvd., 488-4191; www.draftfreak.com) 3. Lager’s International Ale House (3501 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 887-9923)

Best Casino

1. Harrah’s Casino New Orleans (4 Canal St., 533-6000; www. harrahs.com) — This palace of gambling recently hosted a World Series of Poker event, and like casinos around the country, it has benefited from the recent poker boom. With the Earl Turner Theater and the new Masquerade nightclub, there’s a lot going on at Harrah’s, but the main draw remains the expanse of slot machines and gaming tables.

2. Treasure Chest Casino (5050 Williams Blvd., Kenner, 4438000; www.treasurechestcasino.com) 3. Boomtown Casino (4132

Best

RESTAURANT PATIO UPON WHICH TO CONDUCT A SCIENTIFIC EXPEDITION B Y

A L L E N

J O H N S O N

J R .

PHOTO BY CHERYL GERBER

T

he patio of an upscale New Orleans restaurant is attracting romantic couples, two feuding species of lizards, and for the past year, a team of curious scientists. In fact, just as the mating season is ending (for the lizards), an ongoing investigation by biologists from Nicholls State University is picking up speed in the courtyard of Marisol Restaurant.

Chef Peter Vazquez and his wife, Janis Vazquez, co-owners of Marisol, have given the NSU scientists free rein. “So far the lizards haven’t done anything out of the ordinary like wear lipstick or organize a rebellion,” says Janis Vazquez, who keeps customers informed of the study’s progress in the monthly restaurant newsletter.

Established in 1999, Marisol (Spanish for “sun and sea”) is located across Esplanade Avenue from the Old U.S. Mint. On a recent August afternoon, small brown lizards darted silently about the brick garden, seemingly in harmony with the gentle trickle of the water fountain at the patio’s center. But one of nature’s turf wars is playing out, says NSU biologist Allyse Ferrara, as the native green anole lizards might be losing the battle for patio dominance to the brown anoles, an exotic and thuggish newcomer of Caribbean origins. If the brown lizards triumph, and show they can reproduce and survive winter on Marisol’s patio, then Louisiana may have its newest pest.

Louisiana already spends “large sums of money” each year trying to control imported pests such as the Formosan termite, the nutria rat and the water hyacinth plant. “The establishment of a non-native species is one of the most costly and pressing ecological problems of today,” Ferrara and her husband, biologist Quenton Fontenot, warn in a 15-page application to NSU for a $3,209 research grant.

Ferrara and Fontenot, who are both fisheries biologists, first ventured into Marisol in the spring of 2004; they just wanted to take Ferrara’s mother somewhere nice to eat. “We sat out on the patio and we saw these little brown lizards running,” Ferrara recalls. “They looked like the native species but the head was shaped a little different. They seemed to sit up differently. When they stopped, their bodies seemed to position a little bit higher.

The greens have their feet out more from their bodies. And have their bellies closer to the ground.”

The brown anoles (Anolis sagrei), which first arrived in the United States via the Florida Keys in the late 19th century from Cuba, the Bahamas and the West Indies, had already virtually run the green alones (Anolis carolinensis) out of southern Florida. While both the green and the brown lizards cannibalize the young among them, the adult browns prefer juveniles of other species — contributing to an 85-90 percent population decline among the Florida greens, research shows.

But the Battle of New Orleans is not yet over. The native green anoles of Louisiana tend to be larger than their unfortunate Florida counterparts, Ferrara says. Further, the staying power of the brown anoles has not been documented. “We have also noticed sites in the courtyard sufficient to shelter anoles over the winter,” the scientists report, referring to two restaurant restrooms.

Another objective of the scientists’ study is to test the effectiveness of an alternative method of marking the lizards — decimal coded wire tagging. The process reportedly does not harm the lizards tagged for research. The current identification method — clipping the toes of the lizards — has come under fire from animal rights advocates because “the toe-clipped individuals are permanently mutilated,” Ferrara and Fontenot write.

After collecting, tagging and releasing the lizards back onto the Marisol patio, the scientists plan to return one week later to re-capture a number of both species, and then estimate the population on the patio. They will check back in the spring to see if the lizards survived the winter.

To catch enough lizards for their study, the biologists have hired one Josh Chauvin, a junior education major at NSU. He has experience catching green anoles for pet stores, but has never chased a brown lizard. Should he fail to snare the browns, Ferrara and Fontenot plan to lasso the lizards themselves using mint green dental floss. Science has not figured GW out why green dental floss works on brown lizards, Ferrara admits. GW www.bestofneworleans.com | August 30, 2005 | Gambit Weekly

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LET’S HIT THE CLUB FOR

LUNCH

Best new gardens B Y

L I L I

L E G A R D E U R

(don’t you just love saying that?)

C

Executive Chef: Jonathan Wright

Relaxing. Distinctly British. We believe lunch should be a comfortable break in the day. The Polo Club Lounge, within the magnificent Windsor Court Hotel, is proud to introduce our new Polo Club Lunch Buffet. Featuring a carefully selected and ever changing array of various dishes from Roasted Strip Loin of Beef to Coq au Vin. Indeed, lunch in the Central Business District will never be the same.

Introducing the Polo Club Lunch Buffet - $15 Monday - Friday 300 Gravier Street 523.6000 Complimentary Parking www.windsorcourthotel.com

26 |

Gambit Weekly | August 30, 2005 | www.bestofneworleans.com

all Macon Fry a homegrown politician. By helping people grow fruits and vegetables in their own yards, Fry hopes to change the politics of who gets access to fresh, nutritious, sustainably grown food. And that, he says, is an issue that goes to the heart of food justice for Americans at the low end of the income scale.

“We are working in one neighborhood at a time,” says Fry, who ran Parkway Partner’s Community Garden programs for a year and a half before taking control of The Farm Yard Project of the New Orleans Food and Farm Network (NOFFN) last summer. The project, which installs free gardens at the homes of residents who pledge to maintain them, is concentrating on greater Hollygrove, the area between Earhart Boulevard Gardener John Paul Bartley and the Pontchartrain Expressway PHOTO BY GINA LEBLANC/DONN YOUNG STUDIO on the Jefferson Parish side of Carrollton Avenue. By doing so, organizers hope to create a critical mass of gardens and a network of relationships among the neighbors growing them. That, in turn, will empower residents to take control of their food supply and their health — a domino effect that the Farm Yard Project hopes to replicate, neighborhood by neighborhood, across the city.

The project is getting critical support from the New Orleans STEPS program, a local project of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services that is targeting diabetes, obesity and asthma by promoting healthy diet and lifestyle choices. Diabetes and obesity disproportionately affect predominantly African-American neighborhoods like Hollygrove. Other partners include the Carrollton Rotary and Archbishop Rummel High School in Metairie.

NOFFN chose Hollygrove/Carrollton as the first community to work in for all of its programs, which will soon include a grassroots cooking instruction program and a community food assessment, Fry says. The only cost to residents is five hours of volunteer work, which they can complete by mentoring another gardener.

“I think it’s great,” says 27-year-old John Paul Bartley, a garden recipient who moved to Hollygrove in May. “I love cooking with fresh vegetables. To get the bell peppers straight from my garden, chop them up, debug them and cook them up — that’ll be fine.”

Hollygrove only has a single discount grocery store, having lost two supermarkets in the last few years. As a result, residents who don’t have cars face a long bus ride if they want to shop around for fresh produce. The neighborhood used to have lots of vegetable gardens in the 1960s and 1970s, Fry says, but lost them when the grocery stores came in. “Then the big grocery stores decided they weren’t big enough and couldn’t make enough money here,” Fry says. “When they closed, they left the community with little access.”

On Aug. 20, volunteers peeled back sod on 11 Hollygrove properties where residents had applied to receive newly installed gardens. A week later, a squad of volunteers from Rummel and Carrollton Rotary joined NOFFN members to finish installing the gardens, mostly rectangular raised beds framed in galvanized wire and lined with hay. The team of gardeners also planted lemon, kumquat and other fruit trees in 12 neighborhood locations. Gardeners who rented their homes needed permission from the property owner. Participants received seeds and pointers as well as trellises made from bamboo donated by Northshore bamboo guru Marler Spence, who runs Bamboo Gardens of Louisiana.

Community gardens already play an important role in providing urban gardeners with land, Fry says. His experience with Parkway Partners, however, taught him that many gardeners lose their enthusiasm for gardens that are more than a few steps from home. That observation fits with his own experience: Fry says he tends and harvests the small plot he keeps at his own home far more regularly than the plot he maintains at a community garden just blocks away. By placing gardens at gardener’s homes, he also hopes to circumvent the possibility of plots being displaced by development — often an issue in community gardens on privately owned vacant lots.

The project already has gardeners lined up for the next round of garden giveaways in the spring and welcomes more inquiries. Between now and then, the project will host a harvest festival and garden tours for neighborhood gardeners. A newsletter will also provide gardening news and tips.

It’s political, Fry says, but the connections made between neighbors can be as simple as one person swapping okra for another person’s tomatoes. “There’s a sense of ownership and pride that people have in gardens that are in their own yard. People seem to look at this as chance to get back to something they had done once and put aside, something that was important to them GW and to their families.” GW

Best Live Music Venue

1. House of Blues (225 Decatur St., 529-2584; www.hob.com) — Why do robbers rob banks?

That’s where the money is, and music fans go to the House of Blues because that’s where they find shows by Elvis Costello, Arcade Fire, North Mississippi Allstars, MF Doom and John Legend, among others. With its wide stage and vertical room design, fans are never too far from the performers.

2. Tipitina’s (501 Napoleon Ave., 895-TIPS; www.tipitinas.com) 3. The Maple Leaf Bar (8316 Oak St., 866-9359)

Best Live Music Show in the Last 12 Months

1. Better Than Ezra Christmas show at House of Blues — The stage was decked out in Christmas lights and fake snow fell during Better Than Ezra’s two-night stand last December. As much as that helped created a festive mood, the show had a seasonal sense of generosity as the band approached its hits and fan favorites as vehicles for celebration. BTE also treated the crowd to “Daylight,” a song from its then-unreleased CD, Before the Robots.

2. Duran Duran at New Orleans Arena 3. Allen Toussaint and Earl Turner at Harrah’s Casino

Best Jazz Fest Performance 2005

1. Dave Matthews Band — Fans of the Dave Matthews Band braved the rain at the start of the second Saturday of Jazz Fest to stake out their spots at the Acura Stage for Matthews, the closing act. They were rewarded with a stellar show in which Matthews

debuted two songs from his Stand Up (RCA) album, then just over a week from release.

He played the album’s title cut and “Louisiana Bayou,” then finished the show with an exciting cover of “All Along the Watchtower.”

2. The Meters reunion 3. Elvis Costello

Best Rock Band/Artist

1. Better Than Ezra — Last year, Better Than Ezra released Live at the House of Blues New Orleans on CD and DVD. Both capture the band’s “We’re just like you” charm.

BTE has spent more than a decade delivering songs that do nothing tricky or theoretical; they simply record pop songs with memorable choruses that speak to people. This year’s Before the Robots includes a re-release of the crowd favorite, “Lifetime.”

2. World Leader Pretend 3. Cowboy Mouth

Best R&B/Blues Band/ Artist

1. The Neville Brothers — Last year’s Walkin’ in the Shadow of Life (Back Porch) wasn’t a comeback — they’ve been here for years — but it delivered the Nevilles at their most soulful. The cover of the Temptations’ “Ball of Confusion” suggested the album’s classic soul roots, but the heart of the recording — and the band — remains the harmonies between Charles, Art, Aaron, Cyril and secondgeneration Neville Ivan.

2. Walter “Wolfman” Washington 3. Irma Thomas

Best Jazz Band/Artist

1. Kermit Ruffins — Last year, world music label Putumayo Records released a collection of Kermit Ruffins’ work, sharing with the world what people

have known here for years.

Whether at Vaughan’s, the Wisdom or one of the Treme trumpeter’s countless other regular gigs, he’s a crowdpleaser in the best sense of the term. His trumpet playing is as warm as his singing voice.

2. Jeremy Davenport 3.(TIE) Astral Project and Irvin Mayfield

Best Cajun/Zydeco Band/ Artist 1. Rockin’ Dopsie Jr. — Rockin’ Dopsie Jr. started playing the rubboard in 1982 as a part of his legendary father’s band.

His charisma and athletic showmanship has made him an ambassador for zydeco, and he’ll be featured this fall as the house band for a week of the game show Wheel of Fortune being taped in New Orleans.

2. Amanda Shaw 3. Sunpie Barnes

Best Brass Band

1. Rebirth Brass Band — Does this acclaimed band ever rest?

Rebirth maintains a busy international touring schedule, but the band also plays regularly here, including the long-standing Tuesday night gig at the Maple Leaf that has caused many Tulane and Loyola students to blow off their Wednesday classes. Look for Rebirth in The Skeleton Key, the Kate Hudson movie filmed in Louisiana.

2. The Soul Rebels 3. The Dirty Dozen Brass Band

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Best Rap/Hip-Hop Artist

1. Juvenile — This son of the Magnolia projects released one of the hip-hop singles that demanded attention last year. “Slow Motion” was a hit with its mid-tempo grind and sing-along chorus, and like 50 Cent’s “In Da Club,” it seemed that rappers around the

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BEST OF NEW ORLEANS®

country who wanted to show their street cred had to incorporate it in their tracks, whether by remixing it, quoting it or answering it.

2. Lil Wayne 3. Ballzack

Best Acoustic/ Folk Band/Artist

1. Theresa Andersson — Since the release of 2004’s pop/rock-oriented Shine (Basin Street), Andersson has been hot, signing with a national booking agency that kept her on the road much of last year. This spring, she was invited to join the “Spirit of Guthrie Tour” with Rob Wasserman, Vince Herman of Leftover Salmon, and Jim Page.

2. Balsa Wood Flyers 3. Spencer Bohren

Best Band That Doesn’t Fit Any of These Categories

1. Bag of Donuts — This cover band returns to the winner’s circle because of its commitment to entertaining crowds. The outlandish costumes and stage props get a lot of attention, but Bag of Donuts is successful because the band

obviously has a lot of fun playing the hits from the ’70s, ’80s and ’90s.

2. Bingo!

3. Bonerama

FOOD AND RESTAURANTS Best New Restaurant

1. One Restaurant and Lounge (8132 Hampson St., 301-9061; www.onesl.com) — One features the contemporary Louisiana fare of Chef Scott Snodgrass of Clancy’s. Snodgrass, whose ambitions transcend the more traditional Creole offerings from his former kitchen, calls his efforts “contemporary comfort food.”

Considering dishes like the cochon du lait — a tower of sweet suckling pig topped with a thicket of red cabbage over creamy, stone-ground grits — our readers agree.

2. The Flaming Torch (737 Octavia St., 895-0900) 3. Fire — A Restaurant (1377 Annunciation St., 566-1950)

Best Northshore Restaurant

1. Dakota (629 N. Hwy. 190, Covington,

985-892-3712) — This three-way battle for supremacy of the Northshore dining scene is one of the more interesting slices of competition each year, and this year Dakota upended Trey Yuen. Readers obviously fell in love once again with the song-inducing Halleluiah softshell crab, served with Louisiana seafood stuffing and sauce Creollaise.

2. Trey Yuen (600 N. Causeway Blvd., Mandeville, 985-626-4476) 3. La Provence (25020 Hwy. 190, Mandeville, 985-626-7662)

Best Hotel Restaurant

1. Cafe Adelaide and the Swizzle Stick Bar (Loews New Orleans Hotel, 300 Poydras St., 595-3305) — The days of the “hotel restaurant” as an afterthought are long gone.

Guests at Loews (and scads of locals) have clearly realized the benefits of remaining on Poydras Street to eat. Credit that old Brennan family magic if you will, but don’t forget wildly popular Chef Kevin Vizard, back in the saddle and putting his Caribbean spin on Creole food.

2. New Orleans Grill (Windsor Court Hotel, 300 Gravier St., 523-6000;

Best Hospital: Touro Infirmary PHOTO COURTESY TOURO INFIRMARY

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BEST OF NEW ORLEANS®

Best Sommelier: Matt Lirette, Emeril’s PHOTO BY CHERYL GERBER

www.windsorcourthotel.com) 3. Rib Room (Omni Royal Orleans, 621 St. Louis St., 529-7045; www.neworleansrestaurants.com/ribroom)

Best Cajun Restaurant

1. Mulate’s (201 Julia St., 5221492; www.mulates.com) — It’s a shame that New Orleans doesn’t have many truly Cajun restaurants, but landmarks such as Mulate’s help pick up the slack. This restaurant keeps it authentic with its take on popular dishes such as the blackened redfish, fried catfish and shrimp etouffee, along with live music courtesy Jonno, Lee Benoit, La Touché and Jay Cormier.

2. K-Paul’s (416 Chartres St., 524-7394; www.kpauls.com) 3. Michaul’s Live Cajun Music Restaurants & Le Bon Temps Music Hall (840 St. Charles Ave., 522-5517; www.michauls.com)

Best Chinese Restaurant

1. Five Happiness (3605 S. Carrollton Ave., 482-3935; www. fivehappiness.com) — Is it the

pot stickers or the crisp egg rolls? Is it the steamed meat buns, the hot-and-sour shrimp or the Peking duck (with its two-hour advance-notification requirement)? Or is it simply that Five Happiness has one of the widest offerings of Chinese food in town? The Zagat Certificate of Distinction is but one accolade showered on Five Happiness.

2. August Moon (3635 Prytania St., 899-5124) 3. P.F. Chang’s China Bistro (3301 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 828-5288; www. pfchang.com)

Best Creole Restaurant

1. Jacques-Imo’s Cafe (8324 Oak St., 861-0886; www. jacquesimoscafe.com) — Jacques-Imo’s still commands two-hour waits on some weekend nights. Maybe it’s because owner Jack Leonardi and his approach to all things Creole remain as audacious as those shorts he wears, from the alligator cheesecake and fried roast-beef po-boy appetizers

to his seemingly unending offering of seafood dishes.

2. Galatoire’s (209 Bourbon St., 525-2021; www.galatoires.com) 3. Pampy’s Creole Kitchen (2005 N. Broad St., 949-7970; www.pampyscreolekitchen. com)

Best Italian Restaurant

1. Vincent’s (7830 St. Charles Ave., 866-9313; 4411 Chastant St., Metairie, 885-2984; Pine Tree Plaza Shopping Center, 4250 Hwy. 22, Mandeville, 985-624-2300) — When your waiter breaks into song even when you’re just joking it’s your date’s birthday, you know you’ve happened upon this venerable Italian spot. The Uptown location is the very definition of cozy, and the meals that start with the fried calamari, continue with a huge cannelloni and finish off with a vivid spumoni hold their own.

2. Venezia (134 N. Carrollton Ave., 488-7991) 3. Andrea’s (3100 19th St., Metairie, 834-8583; www. andreasrestaurant.com)

Best Japanese/ Sushi Restaurant

1. Sake Cafe Japanese Restaurant (2830 Magazine St., 8940033; www.sakecafeuptown) — Ever since it reconfigured the old K&B store on Magazine Street, complete with cozy booths, elongated sushi bar and a second-floor perch, Sake Cafe (better known as Sake Cafe Uptown) has been a particular favorite among the

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Garden District crowd on the hunt for quality sushi.

2. Kyoto (4920 Prytania St., 891-3644) 3. Wasabi (900 Frenchmen St., 9439433; 5243 Canal Blvd., 488-8828; www. wasabirestaurant.com)

Best Latin American Restaurant

1. La Macarena Pupuseria and Restaurant (4221 Williams Blvd., Kenner, 464-4525) — It’s no coincidence that some of the most loving food coming out of the quaintest kitchens in the area are family affairs, and that’s the case with this relatively new but very popular Salvadoran spot owned by Manny Ochoa Galvez and his mother, Isbela. The pupusa is an addicting little appetizer pocket, with its flood of cheese and refried black beans.

2. Liborio (321 Magazine St., 581-9680; www.liboriocuban.com) 3. Rio Mar (800 S. Peters St., 525-3474; www.riomarseafood.com)

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Best Mediterranean Restaurant

1. Byblos (3218 Magazine St., 894-1233; 1501 Metairie Road, Metairie, 8349773; 2020 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 837-9777; Lakeside Shopping Center, 3301 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 830-7333) — While there are plenty of quality Mediterranean restaurants in the area, many play it fairly simple and safe. Not so at the ever-expanding Byblos franchise, which pays particular attention to such easy-to-overlook details as properly marinating the meats for its kebabs, for example. Credit the Sisters of Salome belly-dance troupe with the Uptown location’s jam-packed Thursday nights.

2. Mona’s Cafe (504 Frenchmen St., 9494115; 3149 Calhoun St., 861-2124; 3901 Banks St. 482-7743; 4126 Magazine St. 894-9800; www.shopno/monas.com) 3. Lebanon Cafe (1506 S. Carrollton Ave., 862-6200)

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Best Mexican Restaurant

1. Taqueria Corona (857 Fulton St., 524-9805; 5932 Magazine St., 897-3974; 1827 Hickory Ave., Harahan, 738-6722; 3535 Severn Ave., Metairie, 885-5088) — People are amazed at the low prices and large portions at this Mexican restaurant, making it sometimes easy to classify Taqueria Corona as a bargain diner. But a return visit gives way to the gazpacho, the fish tacos and the cebollitas, and quality comes much more quickly into focus.

2. Superior Grill (3636 St. Charles Ave., 899-4200; www.superiorgrill.com) 3. Juan’s Flying Burrito (2018 Magazine St., 569-0000; www.juansflyingburrito.com)

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Best Neighborhood Restaurant

1. Liuzza’s Restaurant & Bar Inc.(3636 Bienville St., 482-9120) — In the dictionary under “New Orleans neighborhood restaurant” should be a photo of Liuzza’s neon-lit facade. Step inside past the bar and into the snug dining room that promises gumbo, po-boys, Italian eggplant casserole and more. Is there anyone in this town who doesn’t know to wash it all down with a beer or Barq’s, freezing up in those chilled bulbous mugs?

2. Joey K’s (3001 Magazine St., 8910997; www.joeyksrestaurant.com) 3. Franky & Johnny’s (321 Arabella St., www.bestofneworleans.com | August 30, 2005 | Gambit Weekly

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BEST OF NEW ORLEANS®

899-9416; www.frankyandjohnnys.com)

Best Seafood Restaurant

Best Happy Hour and Best Place to Get a Margarita: Superior Grill PHOTO BY DONN YOUNG

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1. Deanie’s Seafood (841 Iberville St., 581-1316; 1713 Lake Ave., Metairie, 834-1225; www.deanies.com) — New Orleanians have long trekked out of the city and into the storied row of Bucktown seafood joints — and no restaurant epitomizes that row more than Deanie’s. A few years ago, Deanie’s made it easier on the city folk by opening a spot in the Quarter, so there’s no excuse for locals or visitors to miss those huge seafood platters and mounds of barbecue shrimp.

2. GW Fins (808 Bienville St., 581-3467; www.gwfins.com) 3. Sid-Mar’s (1824 Orpheum Ave., Metairie, 831-9541; www.sidmarsofbucktown.com)

Best Soul Food Restaurant

1. Praline Connection (542 Frenchmen St., 943-3934; www.pralineconnection. com) — Which is more memorable, that iconic New Orleans soul food that includes red beans and rice and fried chicken livers, or the servers with their pressed black slacks, white shirt and black hat? No doubt a dining

experience at Praline Connection is an introduction into the essence of New Orleans’ comfort-food cooking.

2. Dunbar’s (4927 Freret St., 899-0734; www.dunbarscreolecooking.com) 3. Dooky Chase (2301 Orleans Ave., 8210600; www.dookychaserestaurant.com)

Best Steakhouse

1. Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse (711 Broad St., 486-0810; 3633 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 888-3600; www. ruthschris.com) — In a city that boasts some of the best Creole, Cajun and soul food in the world, a steakhouse has become just as closely identified with the city’s cuisine. That’s Ruth Fertel’s legacy, and beef lovers (particularly Gambit readers) have responded accordingly in honoring Ruth’s Chris once again as their favorite.

2. Dickie Brennan’s Steakhouse (716 Iberville St., 522-2467; www.dickiebrennanssteakhouse.com) 3. Crescent City Steak House (1001 N. Broad St., 821-3271; www.crescentcitysteaks.com)

Best Tapas/Small Plate Restaurant

1. Vega Tapas Cafe (2051 Metairie Road,

Metairie, 836-2007; www.vegatapascafe.com) — Vega was cranking out delicious tapas and small-plate favorites long before they became a national dining trend, so you can forgive the owners if they roll their eyes a little at repeating as champions in this relatively new category. We’re particularly fond of the traditional marinated mushrooms and grilled asparagus in vinaigrette.

2. Mimi’s in the Marigny (2601 Royal St., 942-0690) 3. RioMar (800 S. Peters St., 525-3474; www.riomarseafood.com)

Best Thai Restaurant

1. Bangkok Cuisine (4137 S. Carrollton Ave., 482-3606) — This Mid-City spot repeats as our readers’ favorite after being the runner-up two years ago.

They must be doing something right, and we’re guessing it has something to do with the Shrimp Siam, seasoned perfectly with lemongrass.

2. Basil Leaf (1438 S. Carollton Ave., 862-9001) 3. SukhoThai (1913 Royal St., 948-9309)

Best Vietnamese Restaurant 1. Pho Tau Bay (1565 Tulane Ave.,

Denver Salt Lake City Seattle Portland San Francisco LA San Diego Las Vegas Phoenix San Antonio Houston St. Louis Chicago Indy Cincinnati New York Boston Philly Hartford Cleveland Pittsburgh Dewey Beach

If You Want In, Stand Out. 40 Parties. 40 Cities.

Will you get exposed?

Columbus Detroit Grand Rapids Minneapolis Madison Lawrence Dallas Austin New Orleans Memphis Nashville Charlotte Raleigh Atlanta Tampa

Find out more at www.maximexposure.com

Orlando Ft. Lauderdale San Juan

© 2005 Anheuser-Busch, Inc., Bud Light® Beer, St. Louis, MO

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BEST OF NEW ORLEANS®

524-4669; 216 N. Carrollton Ave., 485-SOUP; 113C Westbank Expwy., Gretna, 368-9846; 3116 N. Arnoult Road, Metairie, 780-1063) — Yes, this growing Vietnamese franchise is the place for our readers to check out that Southeast Asia bowl of comfort food, pho, and yes, we all love the light touch of the spring rolls. But more people are discovering the delicious adaptation to local cuisine, the Vietnamese po-boy. And it’s all quite budget-friendly.

2. Kim Son (349 Whitney Ave., Gretna, 366-2489; www.kimsonrestaurant.com) 3. 9 Roses (1116 Tula Ave., 566-0950)

Best Breakfast Spot

1. Bluebird Cafe (3625 Prytania St., 895-7166) — Despite stiff competition from some equally popular spots around town, the Bluebird’s domination here suggests there’s at least one category ripe for retirement. If you don’t know by now about the migas, the fruitstuffed buckwheat pancakes or the huevos rancheros, then you

must sleep in waaaay too much.

2. Riccobono’s Panola Street Cafe (7801 Panola St., 314-1810) 3. Camellia Grill (626 S. Carollton Ave., 866-9573)

Best Brunch

1. Commander’s Palace (1403 Washington Ave., 899-8221; www.commanderspalace.com) — Readers keep Commander’s on top, probably because they keep varying their decisions between the a la carte and traditional jazz brunch choices on those lazy Sunday mornings. The traditional jazz brunch is a no-brainer, with the Bloody Mary, the eggs Sardou, the muscadine- and chicory coffee-lacquered quail, and the Creole bread pudding souffle.

2. Brennan’s (417 Royal St., 525-9711; www.brennansneworleans.com) 3. Begue’s (Royal Sonesta Hotel, 300 Bourbon St., 586-0300; www. sonesta.com/neworleans_royal)

Best Lunch Specials

1. Commander’s Palace (1403 Washington Ave., 899-8221; www.commanderspalace.com) — Chef Tory

McPhail’s Creole luncheon starts with turtle soup and then moves on to the black skillet-seared wild fish, finished off with “the queen of Creole desserts,” the bread pudding souffle. That sounds special enough for us, making Commander’s Palace a repeat winner in yet another category.

2. Cafe Reconcile (1631 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd., 568-1157; www. cafereconcile.com) 3. (TIE) Bacco’s (310 Chartres St., 522-2426; www.bacco.com) and Mr. B’s Bistro (201 Royal St., 523-2078; www.mrbsbistro.com)

Best Late-night Dining

1. Camellia Grill (626 S. Carrollton Ave., 866-9573) — Please tell us if this sounds like you at any point: out late on the town, hours removed from dinner, you find yourself gravitating toward Riverbend, entering under a neon sign, and before you know it, you’re watching the world’s largest omelette being shaped over the grill, right next to a chocolate pecan pie. Sound familiar? It’s not just you, that’s for sure.

2. Angeli on Decatur (1141 Decatur St., 566-0077) 3. Clover Grill (900 Bourbon St., 598-1010; www.clovergrill.com)

Best Place to Feed the Whole Family

1. Piccadilly Cafeteria (Citywide; www.piccadilly.com) — If the word “cafeteria” sends shivers down the spine of those still traumatized by school lunches, why is Piccadilly Cafeteria so darn tasty?

Here’s the best-kept dining secret around: its fried chicken rocks!

Families on a budget love the specials that make a big meal easier on the wallet as well as special kid nights with clowns and more. And when chocolate pudding is the first offering in the line, what kid can resist?

2. Ye Olde College Inn (3016 S. Carollton Ave., 866-3683) 3. R&O Pizza Place (216 Hammond Hwy., Metairie, 831-1248)

Best Romantic Restaurant

1. Bella Luna (914 N. Peters St., 529-1583; www.bellalunarestaurant.com) — Ah yes, the Gleesome

Best Local Politician Deserving of a Bouquet: Mayor R ay Nagin

THANKS NEW ORLEANS FOR YOUR NOMINATION...

� Best Grocery Store � Best Liquor Store �

Best Place To Buy Wine � Best Place To Buy Produce Even Thousands Of People From Out Of Town Shop At Dorignac’s Year after year Dorignac’s has been top for thousands of people in the New Orleans Area and out of town. Joseph Dorignac III continues his family’s local tradition of providing grocery shoppers with the very best quality, and a storewide commitment to personal service.

“Here at Dorignac’s my family has been serving New Orleans since 1947 and I’d like to invite you to come and join us. We’ve updated things to make shopping with us more pleasant and enjoyable but haven’t changed any of the things that make Dorignac’s great! You’ll still enjoy all of your favorites like homemade Creole Cream Cheese, our famous St. Joseph & French Bread, and over 8000 wine and spirits to choose from.

We’ve expanded our produce department in size, selection, and freshness and we always have the finest Angus Pride Beef in the city.”

Featuring Angus Pride Beef, The Best Meat in the City

Newly Expanded New Orleans Farmer’s Market

Fresh Cut Arrangements, Balloons, and Bouquets

Fresh Bakery Goods STILL Made Right In The Store Daily

Over 8,300 Wines, Spirits and Beer

Over 125 Boar’s Head Meats and Cheeses To Choose From

JOSEPH DORIGNAC III

Come see why the Best really is Better at Dorignac’s!

PROUDLY SERVING GREATER NEW ORLEANS SINCE 1947

710 VETERANS BLVD. , METAIRIE, LA (504) 834-8216 • www.Dorignacs.com www.bestofneworleans.com | August 30, 2005 | Gambit Weekly

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Best places

for dogs B Y

Z O O M

H A R R I S T

This might sound strange coming from someone who drinks from the toilet, but I have a real appreciation for the finer things in life. Luckily, there are plenty of places in New Orleans that cater to a mutt like me. Here are some of my favorites: Hotel Monaco lobby, 333 St. Charles Ave. Complimentary wine hour, daily, 5-6 p.m.

Let’s face it — my kind usually isn’t welcome in places like this.

But as swank as it is (and it’s swank), I am allowed to jump up on the furniture. And this is not the kind of furniture that humans are usually OK with me jumping up on.

Today, I am lying on a jungle-print chaise being petted by a guy from Myrtle Beach who misses his dogs. My human is sitting across from us, drinking July’s Wine of the Month (La Vielle Ferme Rouge) and getting ready to move on to August.

She’s parked next to a plate of bleu cheese-stuffed olives, and if I weren’t currently enjoying a good belly rub I’d get over there and hustle a snack. I’m reasonably sure I’ll get some handouts before long, though, without having to do too much. Getting treats from tourists who miss their dogs is like shooting fish in a barrel.

Bridge Lounge, 1201 Magazine St. “Dog Night,” Tuesdays Dog Night is a lot like the dog park, only with more flattering lighting and all the humans in a much better mood. The black-and-white dog photos are a nice touch, and the cement floor is great for lying belly-down on a hot night.

There are about 20 dogs here, including a boxer puppy who’s standing on a table sticking his nose into various cocktail glasses. There’s a corgi who left a land mine by the bathrooms, and a Doberman who’s been giving me attitude all night.

That Doberman had better step off or he’s going to be sorry. I am a three-legged, 18-pound, scruffy dirty ball of seething canine fury, and I don’t like to be messed with. I’m just sayin’.

Walking on Magazine Street Every business should be like the Hollywood Video in the 2800 block and put a big water bowl and box of dog treats out front.

Whenever we stop by, I get a treat. Then my human becomes immersed in the DVDs on sale and ignores even my most pleading requests for more.

If I stare hard enough at that box and really concentrate, eventually I will send it toppling to the ground, spilling treats all over. I am a strong believer in the power of the mind. It’s bound to happen someday.

Uptown dog levee, Magazine Street and River Road RUN! RUN! RUNrunrrunrunrunrunBARKBARKBARKBARKBARKBARKbarkbarkbarkbark! bark bark! barkSQUIRREL! SQUIRREL! SQUIRREL! SQUIRREL! SQUIRREL! Tree. Sniff sniff sssnifffff. Pee. OTHER DOG! OTHER DOG! OTHERDOGOTHERDOGOTHERDOG! Sniff other dog. Sssniffffff other dog. Bark! Pee. Trot. Trot. Snifffffffff. Dog pile! ROLLLLLLLL. RRROOOOOLLLLLL. Ignore human. Ignore human.

Wag. Wag. Ignore human. Pee. Trot. Trot. Mud! Mmmmmmmmuuuuuuuuuudddd! Ignore human. Wag. Ignore human, ignore human. Pee. River! Sticks! Chase. Swim. Chase. Pee. Bark bark bark bark bark bark! Trot to human. Shake! Ignore human. Wag. Pee. SniiffffffSNIFFSNIFFSNIFF. DEAD FISH! ROOOOLLLLLLLLL RRRROLLLLLL ROOOOLLLLLL RROOOOLLLLLLLL RRRRRRRRRRROOOOOOLLLLLL. Ignore human, ignore human, ignore screaming human.

Jefferson Feed & Garden Supply, 4421 Jefferson Hwy., Jefferson “Yappy Hour,” second Thursday of every month The theme is “Tropical Luau,” and in keeping with my philosophy that less is more, I go with a simple flowered sarong (which ends up completely befouled by the end of the party). At one point, I pee on a lady’s foot, which sends my human straight to the wine bar. Then, I discover a plate with a turkey sandwich that someone has thoughtfully left at nose level.

I end up losing out in the costume contest to two terriers wearing Hawaiian shirts and matching visors, and a pair of greyhounds in grass skirts. I’m pretty sure it was rigged.

Coliseum Square Park, Lower Garden District When this park started providing plastic bags for people to clean up after their dogs, my humans considered it a good thing. But that diminished my opportunities to roll in dog piles — and I consider that to be a very bad thing.

Now I have to search harder for piles to roll in, so there’s a lot more work involved. This is why I have come to view each body-slam into a big mound of poo as a character-building opportunity. My humans don’t see it that way, but our opinions often differ.

Pal’s Lounge, 949 N. Rendon St. A Rhodesian Ridgeback and I are the only two dogs in the place tonight.

Laura the bartender comes over with treats. The other dog follows her back, trying to worm another treat out of her, but I don’t budge — it’s Monday and I’ve staked out some prime real estate, right under the crockpot holding red beans and rice. That stuff always makes it down to the floor in some form or fashion. Much better than Milk Bones any day, especially mixed with bar-floor funk.

GW Dumb Ridgeback. GW

An ex-stray, Zoom often lectures on the importance of spaying and neutering. He lives with his humans, Eileen and Al Harrist, in the Garden District.

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BEST OF NEW ORLEANS®

Threesome, the holy trinity of dining while making moo-eyes at your loved one. When will these three restaurants fit for engagement rings ever stop this battle? Well, Bella Luna might bow out if the mighty Mississippi River below it suddenly runs dry. Until then, Chef Horst Pfeifer will continue to get wedding invites for his room with a view.

2. La Crepe Nanou (1410 Robert St., 899-2670; www. lacrepenanous.com) 3. Feelings Cafe (2600 Chartres St., 945-2222; www. feelingscafe.com)

Best Cheap Eats

1. Juan’s Flying Burrito (2018 Magazine St., 569-0000; 4724 S. Carrollton Ave., 486-9950; www.juansflyingburrito.com) — This popular burrito joint founded by former punk rockers indeed lives by the ethos that simpler is better: Keep the ingredients fresh, the prices low and the servers tattooed and pierced. There’s always been a fun, funkypunky vibe at this home of the Gutter Punk burrito.

2. Taqueria Corona (857 Fulton St., 524-9805; 5932 Magazine St., 897-3974; 1827 Hickory Ave., Harahan, 738-6722; 3535 Severn Ave., Metairie, 885-5088) 3. Pho Tau Bay (1565 Tulane Ave., 524-4669; 216 N. Carrollton Ave., 485-SOUP; 113C Westbank Expwy., Gretna, 3689846; 3116 N. Arnoult Road, Metairie, 780-1063)

Best Menu for Vegetarians

1. Mona’s Cafe (504 Frenchmen St., 949-4115; 3149 Calhoun St., 861-2124; 3901 Banks St. 482-7743; 4126 Magazine St. 894-9800; www.shopno/monas.com) — In one of the mild surprises in this year’s balloting, this heart-healthy category features completely

new residents. But there’s something oh-so-familiar about the fare at Mona’s, the ever-expanding Middle Eastern dining juggernaut whose stellar vegetarian plate no doubt helped its ascension to the top of this list.

2. Slim Goodies Diner (3322 Magazine St., 891-3447; www. slimgoodies.com) 3. Back to the Garden (833 Howard Ave., 299-8792)

Best Dessert Menu

1. Copeland’s Cheesecake Bistro (2001 St. Charles Ave. 593-995; 4517 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 454-7620; www.alcopeland. com) — Is it any surprise that a restaurant that promises a classic dessert in its title would be the winner here? The 30 cheesecake options at Al Copeland’s dessert bistro are seemingly endless, including that incorporation of a New Orleans classic, the bananas Foster cheesecake.

2. Commander’s Palace (1403 Washington Ave., 899-8221; www.commanderspalace.com) 3. Palace Cafe (605 Canal St., 523-1661; www.palacecafe.com)

Best Buffet

1. Harrah’s New Orleans Casino (512 S. Peters St., 533-6111; www.harrahs.com) — High rollers and fat cats have plenty of room to dine at this popular buffet, which last year was honored by Casino Player magazine with a “Best Buffet” honor. Quite roomy with 400 seats and seven stations, the Harrah’s buffet promises “Pacific Rim to Creole and French fare.”

2. King Buffet (601 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 837-4383) 3. Nirvana (4308 Magazine St., 894-9797)

Best Wine List

1. The Wine Loft (752 Tchoupi-

toulas St., 561-0116; www. thewineloft.net) — A place called The Wine Loft checks in at No. 1? No surprise. But all you have to do is look at the competition below and understand that a winning wine list in this town is no small feat. And with its sheer girth — 70 wines by the glass alone — and impeccable choices, The Wine Loft deserves its repeat designation.

2. Emeril’s (800 Tchoupitoulas St., 528-9393; www. emerils.com) 3. Clancy’s (6100 Annunciation St., 895-1111)

Best Chef

1. Emeril Lagasse (Emeril’s; Emeril’s Delmonico; NOLA) — To understand the enduring appeal of Emeril Lagasse, simply step inside his namesake restaurant and view one of the most efficiently run spaces in the country with food that dazzles. There is much cooking talent in this town, but if one chef is associated with our city, it’s this irrepressible Massachusetts transplant whose thick accent may as well have come from the Ninth Ward.

2. Susan Spicer (Bayona; Herbsaint) 3. John Besh (Restaurant August; The Besh Steakhouse at Harrah’s)

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1. Matt Lirette, Emeril’s (800 Tchoupitoulas St., 528-9393; www.emerils.com) — Gambit readers aren’t the only people to recognize the many talents of Matt Lirette, who strives to find you the perfect match for his chef ’s complex cuisine. He was nominated this year for the prestigious Beard Foundation award for Outstanding Wine Service.

2. Luca Pasquinelli, Peristyle (1041 Dumaine St., 593-9535) 3. Patrick Van Hoorebeck, The

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www.bestofneworleans.com | August 30, 2005 | Gambit Weekly

| 37

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Best Service

1. Commander’s Palace (1403 Washington Ave., 899-8221; www.commanderspalace.com) — There are plenty of reasons to love dining at Commander’s — just look at how many categories it won in this poll. But it’s a cornerstone philosophy of the Garden District landmark to always strive for great service, rendered by a quiet, efficient staff that caters to your every need.

2. Galatoire’s (209 Bourbon St., 5252021; www.galatoires.com) 3. Antoine’s (713 St. Louis St., 581-4422; www.antoines.com)

Best Dining Atmosphere

1. Commander’s Palace (1403 Washington Ave., 899-8221; www.commanderspalace.com) — The fabulous turquoise-and-white Victorian building strikes your fancy from the street; inside, patrons are whisked into dining rooms designed to complement the outdoor Garden District setting, with commissioned paintings, walls of glass and handmade trellises in the Garden Room.

2. Jacques-Imo’s Cafe (8324 Oak St., 861-0886; www.jacquesimoscafe.com) 3. Bella Luna (914 N. Peters St., 5291583; www.bellalunarestaurant.com)

Best Outdoor Dining

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1. Martinique Bistro (5908 Magazine St., 891-8495) — For more than a decade, Martinique Bistro’s tropical name has served as the perfect match for its lush courtyard, a romantic, elegant setting accented with the scent of jasmine and thick greenery.

An extension of the cute yellow cot-

tage, the courtyard is open year-round for sampling Chef Kevin Reese’s superb cuisine.

2. Court of Two Sisters (613 Royal St., 522-7261; www.courtoftwosisters.com) 3. Cafe Rani (2917 Magazine St., 895-2500)

Best Overall Restaurant

1. (TIE) Commander’s Palace (1403 Washington Ave., 899-8221; www.commanderspalace.com) and Galatoire’s (209 Bourbon St., 525-2021; www.galatoires.com) — Considering that these two classic restaurants dominate many categories in this poll, we’re not surprised that your votes amounted to a tie. Both places are distinctly New Orleans, whether it’s the Old World charm of Galatoire’s or the Old South grandeur of Commander’s, or whether it’s the tasty trout meuniere in the French Quarter or the decadent creme brulee in the Garden District.

2. Jacques-Imo’s Cafe (8324 Oak St., 861-0886; www.jacquesimoscafe.com) 3. Clancy’s (6100 Annunciation St., 895-1111)

Best Deli

1. Martin Wine Cellar (3827 Baronne St., 896-7380; 714 Elmeer Ave., Metairie, 896-7350; www.martinwine.com) — While it’s hard to look past the rows and rows of great cheese and wine selections at both Martin locations, the deli in each makes the trip a good one.

Martin boasts an array of salads and sandwiches, plus signature specials like paneed rabbit.

2. Whole Foods Market (5600 Magazine St., 899-9119; 3420 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 943-1626; www.wholefoods.com) 3. Kosher Cajun New York Deli and Grocery (3510 Severn Ave., Metairie, 888-2010; www.koshercajun.com)

Best Place to Get Barbecue

1. VooDoo BBQ & Grill (1501 St. Charles Ave., 522-4647; 8550 Pontchartrain Blvd., 283-8301; 1000 E. James Blvd., St. Rose, 464-1880; www.voodoobbqandgrill.com) — This local franchise helped fuel the area’s newfound love of barbecue, offering a down-home menu that reflects the delicious simplicity of a traditional menu. You pick the meat and sides, whether it’s brisket or ribs, cornbread or beans that you’re craving.

2. The Joint (801 Poland Ave., 949-3232) 3. Corky’s Bar-B-Q (4243 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 887-5000; www.corkysbbq.com)

Best Place to Get Boiled Seafood 1. Deanie’s Seafood (841 Iberville St., 581-1316; 1713 Lake Ave., Metairie, 831-4141; www.deanies.com) — No matter if the season is crab, crawfish or shrimp — both locations of Deanie’s have you covered. At both restaurants, plates come piled high with the day’s best catches, perfect for sharing with friends and family at the table.

2. Sid-Mar’s (1824 Orpheum Ave., Metairie, 831-9541; www.sidmarsofbucktown.com) 3. The Galley (2535 Metairie Road, Metairie, 832-0955)

Best Place to Get Barbecue Shrimp

1. Pascal’s Manale (1838 Napoleon Ave., 895-4877) — Considered the original home to one of the city’s tastiest dishes, Pascal’s Manale’s barbecue shrimp are the stuff of buttery legend: a bowl filled with unpeeled shrimp doused in a piquant butter sauce that’s ideal for bread dipping.

2. Mr. B’s Bistro (201 Royal St., 523-2078; www.mrbsbistro.com) 3. Deanie’s Seafood (841 Iberville St., 581-1316; 1713 Lake Ave., Metairie, 8314141; www.deanies.com)

Best Place to Get a Burger

1. Port of Call (838 Esplanade Ave., 523-0120; www.portofcallneworleans. com) — These half-pound patties from heaven are well worth the ever-present wait. Nothing has changed at this local favorite since in opened in the early ’70s, and for good reason. Prepared to your specifications, the juicy burgers can come under a mountain of grated cheddar cheese if you like, giving rise to a certain Jimmy Buffett tune in your head.

2. Camellia Grill (626 S. Carrollton Ave., 866-9573) 3. Bud’s Broiler (Citywide)

Best Place to Get Fried Chicken

1. Popeye’s Chicken & Biscuits (Citywide; www.popeyes.com) — You really do

www.bestofneworleans.com | August 30, 2005 | Gambit Weekly

| 39

BEST OF NEW ORLEANS®

Best Playground: Wally Pontiff Jr. Playground PHOTO BY GINA LEBLANC/ DONN YOUNG STUDIO

love that chicken from Popeye’s, don’t you? Whether you’re packing huge boxes for a Saints tailgate party or just picking up a three-piece comfort, Popeye’s does it all. A true New Orleans classic.

2. Fiorella’s Cafe (45 French Market Place, 528-9566) 3. Jacques-Imo’s Cafe (8324 Oak St., 861-0886; www.jacquesimoscafe.com)

Best Place to Get Gourmet-To-Go

1. Whole Foods Market (5600 Magazine St., 899-9119; 3420 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 943-1626; www.wholefoods. com) — With an eye for quality and attention to detail that makes shopping at this ubergrocery store akin to a finedining experience, both Whole Foods locations have plenty of great meals to go. The diverse options range from soups and salads to ribs, seafood and pizza.

2. Martin Wine Cellar (3827 Baronne St., 899-7411; 714 Elmeer St., Metairie, 896-7300; www.

martinwine.com) 3. Chez Nous Charcuterie (5701 Magazine St., 899-7303)

Best Place to Get Gumbo

1. The Gumbo Shop (630 St. Peter St., 525-1486; www.gumboshop. com) — The Gumbo Shop lives up to both its name and reputation by pretty much owning this category, one of particular interest and passion for our readers.

This French Quarter restaurant offers a diverse menu, but the line forms for either variety: the seafood (crabs and shrimp) and okra, or the chicken and andouille.

2. Mr. B’s Bistro (201 Royal St., 523-2078; www.mrbsbistro.com) 3. Mandina’s (3800 Canal St., 482-9179)

Best Place to Get a Muffaletta

1. Central Grocery (923 Decatur St., 523-1620) — Not much has changed at Central Grocery since its 1906 opening. It’s the home of the muffaletta, and why mess with perfection? Wrapped

in white paper, the sandwich is loaded with salami, ham, mortadella, Emmentaler cheese and olive salad.

2. DiMartino’s Famous New Orleans Muffulettas (1788 Carol Sue Ave., Terrytown, 391-1711; 3900 Gen. De Gaulle Drive, Algiers, 367-0227) 3. Napoleon House (500 Chartres St., 524-9752; www.napoleonhouse.com)

Best Place to Get Oysters on the Half Shell

1. Acme Oyster House (724 Iberville St., 522-5973; 3000 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 309-4056; 519 E. Boston St., Covington, 985-898-0667; www. acmeoyster.com) — Oysters are what Acme’s been known for since 1910. Whether you’re partying in the Quarter, shopping on Veterans or relaxing on the Northshore, every Acme Oyster House has a raw bar with the freshest bivalves around.

2. Casamento’s (4330 Magazine St., 895-9761) 3. Drago’s Seafood Restaurant

Scott M. Galante

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and Oyster Bar (3232 N. Arnoult Road, Metairie, 888-9254; www. dragosrestaurant.com)

Best Place to Get Pizza

1. Reginelli’s Pizzeria (741 State St., 899-1414; 874 Harrison Ave., 488-0133; 3244 Magazine St., 895-7272; 817 W. Esplanade Ave., Kenner, 712-6868; 5608 Citrus Blvd., Jefferson, 818-0111; www. reginellis.com) — The steady expansion of Reginelli’s franchises over the years reflects the locals’ loyalty. While sandwiches and salads are offered, the crowds come for the pizza, arguing over what makes the crust so good or whether to pick traditional toppings or branch out to signature pies such as the Mediterranean. Either way, they win.

2. Rocky’s Old New Orleans Bar & Pizza Joint (3222 Magazine St., 891-5152; 2701 Airline Drive, Metairie, 833-1288) 3.(TIE) Slice Pizzeria (1513 St. Charles Ave., 525-7437) and Theo’s Neighborhood Pizza (4218 Magazine St., 894-8554; www.

theospizza.com)

Best Place to Get Red Beans and Rice

1. Popeye’s Chicken & Biscuits (Citywide; www.popeyes.com) — You can log onto Popeye’s Web site and view the restaurant’s recipes, but not the red beans and rice — that would be like giving away gold. Thick, rich and packed with flavor, these slow-cooked red beans hardly qualify as fast food, and are one of the key reasons that Popeye’s, reaching its 35th anniversary, is a favorite across the country.

2. Mother’s (401 Poydras St., 523-9656) 3. Dunbar’s Creole Cooking (4927 Freret St., 899-0734)

Best Place to Get Turtle Soup

1. Commander’s Palace (1403 Washington Ave., 899-8221; www.commanderspalace.com) — Commander’s famous turtle soup is always made with meat from alligator snapping turtles.

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For the past five generations, my family has provided Louisianians the shrimp they grew up loving. It’s in my family’s blood to be Louisiana shrimpers and we are very proud of our culture. We love what we do.

It concerns me and my family when some try to pass-off imported shrimp as Louisiana shrimp. This isn’t fair to you and it is threatening to destroy the rich culture and heritage of coastal Louisiana.

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| 41

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BEST OF NEW ORLEANS®

tomatoes and the very necessary splash of sherry also find their rightful place in this local classic.

2. Mandina’s (3800 Canal St., 482-9179) 3. Brennan’s (417 Royal St., 525-9711; www.brennansneworleans.com)

Best Place to Get an Oyster Po-Boy

1. Acme Oyster House (724 Iberville St., 522-5973; 3000 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 309-4056; 519 E. Boston St., Covington, 985-898-0667; www.acmeoyster.com) — You love the oysters both raw and fried at Acme. Try your oyster po-boy the traditional way, with golden-fried pearls of goodness piled on French bread, or spice it up a bit, with the fried oysters coated in a Buffalo sauce.

2. Domilise’s Sandwich Shop & Bar (5240 Annunciation St., 899-9126) 3. Franky & Johnny’s (327 Arabella St., 899-9146)

Best Place to Get a Shrimp Po-Boy

899-9126) — The ladies behind the counter put an extra serving of care into the famed roast beef po-boy, with meat that simmers in its own juices before it’s piled on French bread and dressed with mayo, lettuce, tomato, Creole mustard, yellow mustard and gravy.

2. Mother’s (401 Poydras St., 523-9656) 3. Parasol’s Restaurant & Bar (2533 Constance St., 8992054)

Best Place to Get Bread Pudding

1. Commander’s Palace (1403 Washington Ave., 899-8221; www.commanderspalace. com) — Commander’s unique version of this local favorite is made with cinnamon, raisins and day-old French bread. The bread is broken up, combined with stiffly beaten egg whites and baked again, creating a lofty souffle. At the table, servers fracture the oven-hot souffles with spoons and then drown them in whisky sauce.

2. Palace Cafe (605 Canal St., 523-1661; www.palacecafe.com) 3. Bon Ton Cafe (401 Magazine St., 524-3386)

1. Domilise Sandwich Shop & Bar (5240 Annunciation St., 899-9126) — What’s the secret to the shrimp po-boy at this beloved Uptown institution?

The batter, the tangy sauce that’s lathered on top, the perfectly fried fruits of the sea, or the love that the ladies of Domilise’s always put in your sandwich? It all combines for the best in town.

2. Acme Oyster House (724 Iberville St., 522-5973; 3000 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 309-4056; 519 E. Boston St., Covington, 985-898-0667; www.acmeoyster.com) 3. R&O Pizza Place (216 Old Hammond Hwy., Metairie, 831-1248)

1. Camellia Grill (626 S. Carrollton Ave., 866-9573) — Camellia Grill’s take on this revered Southern classic comes either in the regular or chocolate-infused variety.

Those in the know ask for it flipped on the grill, allowing all the hot, greasy goodness that can only improve when you get it a la mode.

2. Commander’s Palace (1403 Washington Ave., 899-8221; www.commanderspalace.com) 3. Tee-Eva’s (4430 Magazine St., 899-8350)

Best Place to Get a Roast Beef Po-Boy

Best Place to Get Creme Brulee

1. Domilise Sandwich Shop & Bar (5240 Annunciation St.,

Best Place to Get Pecan Pie

1. Commander’s Palace (1403 Washington Ave., 899-8221;

www.commanderspalace.com) — Commander’s pastry chefs prepare their creme brulee in wide, shallow dishes as opposed to the deeper, narrower ramekins customarily used.

The expanded surface area allows for more burnt sugary crunch — creme brulee’s raison d’etre. A crisp tuille basket filled with diced seasonal fruit comes on the side.

2. Arnaud’s (813 Bienville St., 523-5433; www.arnauds.com) 3. Ruth’s Chris (711 N. Broad St., 486-0810; 3633 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 8883600; www.ruthschris.com)

Best Place to Get a Frozen Coffee Drink

1. CC’s (Citywide; www.ccscoffee.com) — You can both cool down and get going at any CC’s location across the metro area. You can get your cafe au lait frozen or order regular joe on ice. Or you can opt for the ever-popular Mochassippi: espresso, skim milk, ice cream, flavored syrup and crushed ice.

2. Starbucks (Citywide; www. starbucks.com) 3. PJ’s (Citywide; www. pjscoffee.com)

Best Sno-ball Stand

1. Plum Street Snowball (1300 Burdette St., 866-7996) — In a close competition, last year’s winner, Hansen’s, got narrowly beat out by Plum Street, which also has a stand each year at Jazz Fest. Plum Street’s treats come in Chinese take-out containers, which isn’t the only unique thing about this Uptown establishment. It’s also the many flavors — like the chocolate with condensed milk — and those cute kidsized plastic chairs that line the sidewalk.

2. Hansen’s Sno-Bliz Sweet Shop (4801 Tchoupitoulas St., 891-9788) 3. Sal’s Sno-Ball Stand (1823 Metairie Road, Metairie, 666-1823) CONTINUED ON PAGE 46

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| 43

Best shrine B Y

C O N S T A N C E

A D L E R

PHOTOS BY CHERYL GERBER

T

he inscription over the door to the chapel announces that I am approaching “The National Shrine to St. Roch, Patron Saint of Miraculous Cures, In Fulfillment of Vow 1875.” Whenever I cross the threshold into the St. Roch chapel, it is as though I am stepping out of ordinary time and space. The soft light that filters down from the diamond-paned windows in the high vaulted ceiling — sky blue with gilded medallions — always feels cool and shadowy, even when it is a baking hot August afternoon outside. The floors are aged marble, and there are two sets of pews, one roped off with yellow caution tape, as it is too broken for sitting. I rarely see anyone else here, except for the cemetery caretaker once in a while.

What I love the most about the place is that it is a departure from mundane chatter. There is no noise save for the fan hum and faint traffic sounds that are so distant and rare they seem like whispers you almost thought you heard. The air moves a little in here, but nothing else does. It is a place of lovely stillness, dust and quiet.

The altar paintings depict episodes in the life of St. Roch, who is the intercessor for victims of pestilence and plague. This chapel stands as a testament to the miracle he granted when Fr. Peter Leonard Thevis, the pastor of Holy Trinity Catholic Church, prayed to St. Roch, promising to build a shrine to the saint if he would spare the parish from the yellow fever plague in 1868. Legend has it that not one Holy Trinity parishioner died in the plague.

But this saint doesn’t just deal with the big plagues. The story with St. Roch is that he will also grant miraculous healing to individual sufferers who ask for his intercession. Not only that, he is also kind to dogs. There is a chipped statue of St. Roch, festooned in cobwebs and termite wings, with his dog by his side. The dog carries a loaf of bread in his mouth and looks up adoringly at St. Roch. This is a saint after my own heart.

A tattered notebook and a blue pen lie on the altar. Remnants of dead cockroaches litter the page. This is where petitioners write their messages to St Roch.

“Thanks for the encephalitis cure,” says one.

“I ask for my son to live a long life, dear God. Please help with his AIDS.” “Thank you for helping Grace. Please cure Dylan’s wasp bites, too.”

And finally: “St. Roch, I am a hopeless cause. Cure me!”

I imagine that St. Roch must be generous enough that he doesn’t mind being confused with St. Jude, who is actually the saint in charge of hopeless causes. Not to mention that another petitioner has left an offering of a fava bean, which really belongs on a St. Joseph altar.

Off to the right of the altar is a tiny doorway, shaped like a gothic-style window, which leads to a small room. There is a locked gate across the doorway. Every other time I have come here, I’ve had to look through the gate, but on this particular visit to the shrine, I happened to run into Jack the caretaker, who unlocks the gate so I can go through the doorway. At last, I am entering the inner sanctum. Ducking my head to clear the low doorframe, I feel like Alice in Wonderland as she steps through the

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looking glass. The room is so small, so close and so crowded, that I feel compelled to kneel on the floor, which is paved from wall to wall in dozens of small stone blocks, each engraved with the word “thanks” and the occasional “merci.” I am kneeling in a pool of gratitude.

Scattered inside are the ex-votoes that generations of petitioners have left behind as a tribute to St. Roch for curing their ailments.

Antique leg braces with children’s shoes still attached, the dusty leather straps crumbling with age, hang from hooks on the wall. A prosthetic leg with a wooden foot screwed onto the end. A pair of crutches leans in a corner. A set of false teeth. According to the custom of placing something that represents the part of the body that needed healing, there are plaster casts of a brain, an ear, arms, legs, a liver, a torso. These also hang on hooks. There are others, harder to interpret. Someone has left a lock of hair, a key on a ribbon, an old camera covered in gold sparkles. Against the window hangs a Plexiglas silhouette of a shapely female leg that could once have adorned a hosiery display at Krauss Department Store.

On a previous visit I looked through the locked gate to see a pile of baby-doll parts, pink plastic arms and legs with rolls of fake baby fat, sweet severed heads with blank blue eyes, all there to indicate the parts of real babies who needed St. Roch’s help.

Although I know these objects represent loving requests for a good cause, taken at a glance the scene is disturbing. At times it looks like a slaughterhouse in here. But then that is what makes this place so special — the desperation that makes allies of the macabre and the blessed.

Another item on St. Roch’s resume is that he not only saves people from pestilence and plague, but he also helps those seeking relief from their loneliness.

Legend has it that young women who want a husband can improve their chances if they make a pilgrimage to nine churches on Good Friday, culminating with a visit to St. Roch’s shrine. Another version of the story is that these lonely women will get a husband if they pray a novena and walk nine times between the cemetery gate and the shrine with gravel in their shoes.

I visit St. Roch’s shrine to remember the New Orleans I met years ago when I first arrived in my adopted city. Shabby, modest, populated by cockroaches and broken statues, so cherished and yet so neglected, this shrine is an unordinary place where a magical transformation may occur, if you ask with humble intentions. It represents the qualities about New Orleans that move me most deeply.

This is the end of the line, the place you come to when all other remedies have failed. Desperation brings you here to offer up your wish for relief from suffering. You offer it here because you are ready to relinquish control and cast your fate upon the mercy of some unseen intelligence that may or may not come through for you. You hope and trust that St. Roch will care. The bargain is easy.

GW You must keep your promises and remember to say “thanks.” GW www.bestofneworleans.com | August 30, 2005 | Gambit Weekly

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Best Coffeehouse

1. PJ’s (Citywide; www.pjscoffee. com) — Phyllis Jordan opened the first PJ’s on Maple Street in 1978, working from the perspective of both a coffee buyer and coffee lover. The successful result can now be found all over the city, with great beans producing great coffee, whether you want dark, medium or a flavored roast.

Look for a boom in franchises locally and nationally in the future.

2. CC’s (Citywide; www.ccscoffee.com) 3. Rue de la Course (217 N. Peters St., 523-0206; 401 Carondelet St., 586-0401; 1140 S. Carrollton Ave., 861-4343; 1500 Magazine St., 529-1455)

Best Place to Get Pastries

1. Maurice French Pastries (1114-A S. Carrollton Ave., 866-7052; 3501 Hessmer Ave., Metairie, 885-1526; www. mauricefrenchpastries.com) — Born and raised in the French Alps as the son of a talented chef, pastry master Jean-Luc Albin caters to New Orleans’ collective sweet tooth, whether the occasion calls for a wedding cake, a king cake during Carnival, or custom pastries in whatever shape you can dream up.

2. La Boulangerie (4526 Magazine St., 269-3777; 625 St. Charles Ave., 569-1925; 3143 Ponce de Leon St., 940-0577) 3. Croissant d’Or Patisserie (617 Ursuline Ave., 524-4663)

Best Place to Get Ice Cream

1. Angelo Brocato (214 N. Carrollton Ave., 486-0078) — Earlier this summer, Angelo Brocato celebrated its 100th anniversary with a big block party. We, the citizens of New Orleans, should have thrown the bash — thankful for a century’s worth of memories of spumoni, tiramisu and icecream flavors such as zuppe inglese and fiore di latte.

2. Creole Creamery (4924 Prytania St., 894-8680) 3. Baskin-Robbins 31 Flavors Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt (Citywide; www.baskinrobbins.com)

Best Jazz Fest Food

1. Crawfish bread — John Ed Laborde’s prized recipe wins again. Considering that Jazz Fest falls during the peak of crawfish season, it’s the perfect time to try this handmade bread that’s filled with four cheeses, spicy crawfish tails and then toasted and served hot.

2. Crawfish Monica 3. Cochon de lait

Best Hot Sauce

1. Tabasco — No truly local

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recipe is complete without a hot pepper sauce, and once again the proud product of the McIlhenny family is your favorite. A part of Louisiana life as much as bayous and corrupt politics, this cayenne creation from Avery Island is doused on everything from oysters to ice-cream sandwiches (seriously — try it).

2. Crystal 3. Louisiana

POLITICS Best Local Legislator

1. David Vitter — In politics, the phrase “perennial candidate” suggests a lack of electoral success. Not true here. U.S. Sen. David Vitter is becoming the perennial favorite of our annual readers’ poll.

Vitter, who was a congressman at this time last year, has beat out all other federal and state legislators for this category since 2001.

2. Bobby Jindal 3. Mary Landrieu

Best New Orleans City Council Member

1. Jackie Clarkson — A tireless politician noted for her signature red dress, Jackie Clarkson has supporters throughout the city — even though she was actually elected to serve only the voters of Council District C (the French Quarter and Algiers).

Clarkson repeats as our readers’ favorite among the seven-member council. And yes, she is the proud mother of actress Patricia Clarkson.

2. Jay Batt 3. Oliver Thomas

Best Jefferson Parish City Council Member

1. Tommy Capella — In 2003, Capella and John Young were political upstarts who defeated veteran incumbents in separate races to win the two at-large seats on the parish council. Last year, they tied for second place in our readers’ poll; this year Capella alone emerges as our readers’ favorite.

2. John Young

3. Jennifer Sneed

Best Local Politician Deserving of a Bouquet

1. Ray Nagin — Our readers could not wait until the February 2006 elections to vote for Mayor Ray Nagin, who repeats as the winner of this category. Nagin’s Best of New Orleans® victory over U.S. Sen. Mary Landrieu and U.S. Rep. Bobby Jindal is impressive, especially considering he will probably not face such a strong field when he runs for re-election.

2. Mary Landrieu 3. Bobby Jindal

Best Local Politician Deserving of a Brickbat

1. Jackie Clarkson — Oh, you fickle voters! Few local politicos evoke such strong feelings as the hard-driving councilwoman of District C, whom our readers also chose as best New Orleans council member this year. Whether admired or reviled, Clarkson will be hard to forget at election time.

2. Ray Nagin 3. Jay Batt

Best Source of Revenue for Teacher Pay Raises

1. Gambling — This new category triggered a familiar response: Voters have wanted Louisiana’s tax revenues from gambling to fund education ever since they approved a statewide lottery in 1990.

Louisiana is always scrambling to keep up with other states in a perpetual bidding war for better teachers.

2. Cigarette tax 3. Cut wasteful spending

Best Next Boondoggle for Commissioner of Agriculture Bob Odom

1. Gourmet Sugar Mill — Bob Odom, a statewide elected official, has survived a criminal indictment and legislative budget cuts. However, his use of “Ag” employees with little or no construction experience to build southwest Louisiana sugar mills has become a source of bitter public ridicule

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BEST OF NEW ORLEANS®

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Best New Restaurant: One Restaurant and Lounge

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PHOTO BY CHERYL GERBER

and workmen’s-comp claims.

2. Purchase of luxury vehicle 3. Hemp farms

Best Friend New Orleans Has in Baton Rouge

EXPERT

1. Mitch Landrieu — Landrieu, who represented the city for years as a state legislator, once ran for mayor of his native New Orleans. However, the homefolk seem to like the job he does in Baton Rouge.

He repeats as our readers’ favorite son in the state capitol — a laurel to add to his widely recognized efforts as an enthusiastic promoter of Louisiana tourism.

2. Kathleen Blanco 3. None

Best Friend Louisiana Has in Washington

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UPTOWN 899.7411 & METAIRIE 896.7300 48 |

Gambit Weekly | August 30, 2005 | www.bestofneworleans.com

1. Mary Landrieu — As a girl, she wanted to become a nun.

Instead she grew up to be elected as a state legislator, state treasurer and United States Senator. Landrieu, a Democrat, beats two bigname Republicans this year to repeat as winner of this category.

2. David Vitter 3. Bobby Jindal

Best Public Spat

1. Harry Lee vs. Rev. Tom Watson — The Jefferson Parish sheriff and Watson, the spokesman for the Greater New Orleans Coalition of Ministers, clashed in a war of words after a 16-year-old black suspect died in a hail of police gunfire in a stolen car chase on May 31. Watson accused Lee’s deputies of using black

males for “target practice”; Lee retorted by inviting the reverend to “kiss my ass.”

The rhetoric escalated then cooled, with no reconciliation expected in the near future.

2. Kathleen Blanco vs. Aaron Broussard 3. School Board infighting

Best Local Scandal

1. Orleans Parish School Board infighting — Last year, this dubious achievement went to the old School Board’s attempted coup of Supt. Anthony Amato. Since then, voters elected a new board that pledged to work with Amato, but he left under a cloud amid allegations of financial mismanagement. The new board then quickly turned on each other. Our readers suggest the effect on the troubled school system is scandalous.

2. “Operation Wrinkled Robe” 3. Federal probe of former Mayor Marc Morial’s administration

Best Lie From a Local Politician

1. Judge Alan Green: “They were not bribes, they were campaign contributions.”

— Our readers were heckling the Jefferson Parish judge’s explanation of cash donations from a bail bond mogul seeking favorable rulings — long before a federal jury convicted Green on a criminal charge. The judge’s alibi beat out defensive assertions made by former Mayor Morial and District Attorney Eddie Jordan, in unrelated controversies.

2. Marc Morial: “My adminis-

tration was not corrupt.”

3. Eddie Jordan: “I did not discriminate against white employees.”

Best Local Liberal

1. Mary Landrieu — All three finalists in this category hail from Orleans, the most liberal of Louisiana’s 64 parishes. As a U.S. senator, Mary Landrieu has tried to re-cast herself as a centrist, but the “L” word won’t go away. Landrieu wins this category — again.

2. Ray Nagin 3. Mitch Landrieu

Best Local Conservative

1. David Vitter — Sworn in as United States senator in January, Vitter has now won this category five years in a row. The Metairie native has established himself as a pro-gun, anti-abortion and tax-hating conservative. He is also a champion of military retirees and a modern missile defense system, and a big fan of President George W. Bush.

2. Bobby Jindal 3. Peggy Wilson

Best Community/ Environmental Activist

1. Anne Rolfes, Louisiana Bucket Brigade — A former Peace Corps volunteer, Rolfes has been organizing communities against oil-refinery pollution for 12 years. As executive director of the Bucket Brigade, Rolfes leads an effort to dispense EPA-approved air-sampling pails to refinery neighbors, who are anxious to document the industries’ airborne discharges. Rolfes

Best Place to Get Married: City Park’s Pavilion of the Two Sisters/ New Orleans Botanical Garden PHOTO BY OSCAR RAJO

and her brigades work to empower mostly poor “fenceline” communities, one bucket at a time.

2. (TIE) Laura Maloney, Louisiana SPCA, and Judy Watts, Agenda for Children 3. Carlton Dufrechou, Lake Pontchartrain Basin Foundation

Best Watchdog 1. Rafael Goyeneche — The executive director of the Metropolitan Crime Commission repeats as the reader’s favorite (with yours truly as No. 2 again). Goyeneche, a former state prosecutor, is the public face of the private nonprofit, pro-law enforcement MCC. The group has made its mark battling police misconduct and public corruption.

2. Gambit Weekly 3. Bureau of Governmental Research

LOCAL LIFE Best Saints Player

1. Deuce McAllister — This year, Deuce threepeats in this category. As if that weren’t enough, he recently became the second highest-paid running back in the NFL with a contract that will shell out at least $50.1 million over eight years. And why not? Since 2001, Deuce has accumulated 4,194 yards rushing, 1,262 yards receiving and 31 touchdowns.

2. Joe Horn 3. Aaron Brooks

Best Hornets Player

1. P.J. Brown — This forward from Louisiana Tech is considered one of the toughest players and best defenders in the league, with an average 10 rebounds per game. He’s

ranked No. 6 in offensive rebounds in the NBA, No. 9 for offensive rebounds per game, and No. 15 for both rebounds per game and free-throw percentage.

2. Chris “The Birdman” Anderson 3. Chris Paul

Best VooDoo Player

1. Aaron Bailey — This offensive specialist fielded his best performances yet in 2004, ending the Arena Football League season with 91 receptions for 32 touchdowns and 1,364 yards, and returning 49 kickoffs for 956 yards and two touchdowns. He’s tied for first in the AFL for his receiving average and third for all-purpose yards.

2. Andy Kelly 3. B.J. Cohen

Best Zephyrs Player

1. Tyrell Godwin — A rising star outfielder, Tyrell Godwin this year made it to the show, playing three games for the Washington Nationals. He also was named to the Pacific Coast League team in the AAA all-star game. He now leads the Zephyrs in stolen bases with 15 and is hitting .326 with four home runs and 20 RBIs. 2. Rick Short 3.(TIE) Kevin Orie and Brendan Harris

Best Shell Shockers Player

1. Anthony Peters — Although the Shell Shockers soccer team is the least-known of New Orleans’ pro sports clubs, forward Anthony Peters is www.bestofneworleans.com | August 30, 2005 | Gambit Weekly

| 49

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Gambit Weekly | August 30, 2005 | www.bestofneworleans.com

BEST OF NEW ORLEANS®

doing his best to change that. He has a reputation as an excellent target when the Shell Shockers are on the attack. Last season, he played 448 minutes in eight games to help his team end with a 6-9-1 record in the Premier Development League.

2. Jeremy Figley 3. Pablo Araya

Best Local Author

1. Anne Rice — She now lives in San Diego, but Anne Rice always will be one of the Crescent City’s favorite success stories. Her 21 books, which range in subject from vampires to witches to erotica, have sold more than 100 million copies and have been made into feature films and mini-series. Her novel Christ the Lord: Out of Egypt, due out in November, will chronicle the early years of Jesus Christ — in his own words.

2. Poppy Z. Brite 3. Michael Lewis

Best Local Visual Artist

1. James Michalopoulos — He makes New Orleans look dreamy and energetic at the same time, with the off-kilter angles, vibrant colors and distinctive perspectives that he brings to his architectural renderings, landscapes, and paintings of automobiles and human figures.

2. John Scott 3. George Rodrigue

Best Local Photographer

1. Herman Leonard — New Orleans has embraced internationally renowned photographer Herman Leonard as a native son. Some believe he was born here in spirit, with his love of jazz and his outstanding photographs of musicians from Billie Holiday to Dr. John as well as luminaries including Albert Einstein and Marlon Brando.

2. Romney 3. David Rae Morris

Best Museum

1. New Orleans Museum of Art (1 Collins C. Diboll Circle, City Park, 488-2631; www.noma. org) — Besides its $200 million permanent collection of artworks from Peter Carl Faberge, Edgar Degas, Pablo Picasso, Joan Miro and others, the 90-year-old NOMA hosts seminars, innovative shows like the current “Southern Perspective on Prints,” and more. You can also amble through the outdoor Sydney & Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden for free.

2. National D-Day Museum (945 Magazine St., 527-6012; www. ddaymuseum.org) 3. The Ogden Museum of Southern Art (925 Camp St.,

539-9600; www.ogdenmuseum.org)

Best Art Gallery

1. Arthur Roger Gallery (432 Julia St., 522-1999; 730 Tchoupitoulas St., 524-9393; www.arthurrogergallery. com) — A major player in New Orleans’ burgeoning art mecca for 20 years, Arthur Roger has helped local artists such as Lin Emery, John Scott and others maintain an outlet for their works. Roger has brought national artists to New Orleans and was recognized in Richard Polsky’s Art Market Guide as one of the most influential galleries in America.

2. Jonathan Ferrara Gallery (841 Carondelet St., 5225471; www.jonathanferraragallery.com) 3. Cole Pratt Gallery (3800 Magazine St., 891-6789; www. coleprattgallery.com)

Best Library Branch

1. Milton H. Latter Memorial Library (5120 St. Charles Ave., 596-2625; www.nutrias.org) — The second floor of the historic mansion-turned-library recently was renovated, making it easier for visitors to find books they want to read while lounging in comfortable chairs at the decidedly unconventional library. The elegant mansion is the perfect setting for reading, especially about history or romance.

2. Jefferson Parish Library/ East Bank Regional (4747 W. Napoleon Ave., Metairie, 8381190; www.jefferson.lib.la.us) 3. Robert E. Smith Regional Library (6301 Canal St., 5962638; www.nutrias.org)

Best Elementary School

1. Lusher Alternative Elementary School (7315 Willow St., 862-5110; 719 S. Carrollton Ave., 304-3960; www.gnofn. org/-lusher/) — No school has occupied the headlines in the past year more than Lusher, but it’s the everyday successes that make it our readers’ favorite. Under the leadership of principal Kathy Riedlinger, Lusher is nationally recognized for its innovative use of the arts in its curriculums, and for its commitment to educating one of the city’s most diverse student populations.

2. Isidore Newman School (1903 Jefferson Ave., 8995641; www.newman.k12.la.us/) 3. Edward Hynes Elementary School (990 Harrison Ave., 4836100; www.hynesschool.org/)

Best High School

1. Benjamin Franklin High School (2001 Leon C. Simon Drive, 286-2600; www. nops.k12.la.us/schoolwebs/ franklinhs) — With all the

problems in the public schools, here’s a true success story.

One of the best public high schools in the state, Ben Franklin produces students who excel in many subjects including drama, music, literature, science and social studies. About 99 percent of each graduating class enters college.

2. Isidore Newman School (1903 Jefferson Ave., 8995641; www.newman.k12.la.us/) 3. Jesuit High School (4133 Banks St., 486-6631; www.jesuitnola.org)

Best Local College/ University

1. Tulane University (6823 St. Charles Ave., 865-5000; www. tulane.edu) — Tulane is considered one of the country’s leading private research institutions, and U.S. News & World Report this year ranked Tulane 43rd in the nation in overall quality. The university also has an estimated $842 million economic impact on the city and $1.1 billion on the state.

2. University of New Orleans (2000 Lakeshore Drive, 2806000; www.uno.edu) 3. Loyola University New Orleans (6363 St. Charles Ave., 865-2011; www.loyno.edu)

Best Playground

1. Wally Pontiff Junior Playground (1521 Palm St., Metairie, 736-8463) — The former Metairie Playground was renamed a few years ago in honor of a 21-year-old third baseman who started for Louisiana State University for three years and died unexpectedly in 2002. As a boy, Pontiff played baseball and basketball at the playground, which offers chances for kids to also participate in football, volleyball, cabbage ball and cheerleading.

2. Danneel Park (St. Charles Avenue at Octavia Street) 3. City Park (1 Palm Drive, 482-4888; www.neworleanscitypark.com)

Best Place for Family Fun Outdoors

1. Audubon Zoo (6500 Magazine St., 581-4629; www. auduboninstitute.org) — New Orleanians certainly got it right with the establishment of the modern Audubon Zoo, one of the country’s best.

With 1,500 animals housed in natural habitats, the zoo is both exotic and beautiful, boasting exhibits such as the Louisiana Swamp, World of Primates and displays that mimic the African savannah, South American Pampas and other locales.

2. Audubon Park (6500 St. Charles Ave., 861-2537; www. auduboninstiture.org) 3. City Park (1 Palm Drive, www.bestofneworleans.com | August 30, 2005 | Gambit Weekly

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BEST OF NEW ORLEANS®

Best Creole Restaurant: Jacques-Imo’s Cafe PHOTO BY DAV ID LEE SIMMONS

482-4888; www.neworleanscitypark.com)

Best Place for Family Fun Indoors

1. Aquarium of the Americas/ IMAX (1 Canal St., 861-2537; www.auduboninstitute.org) — You can’t really swim with the fishes, but you can get a visual taste of the sea life and ambience of the Caribbean Sea, the Amazon rainforest, the Gulf of Mexico and even the Mississippi River with a trip to the aquarium. IMAX shows movies — mostly about nature and adventure — that are bigger than life on the oversized screen.

2. Louisiana Children’s Museum (420 Julia St., 523-1357; www.lcm.org) 3. Chuck E. Cheese’s (124 North Shore Blvd., Slidell, 866-2242025; 3701 Gen. DeGaulle Drive, 367-1214; 7000 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 4545959; www.chuckecheese.com)

Best Place to Jog

1. Audubon Park (6500 St. Charles Ave., 861-2537; www. auduboninstitute.org) — A scenic place to exercise while people-watching, Audubon Park has a mile-and-a-half track with workout stations amid a beautiful park that is well-used by joggers, bikers, skaters, dog owners, children, golfers and students from nearby universities.

2. City Park (1 Palm Drive, 482-4888; www.neworleanscitypark.com) 3. Lakefront

Best Place to Bike

1. Levee Bike Path — It’s elevated along the Mississippi River levee, is paved and two lanes wide, and has dips and curves so you can keep your

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interest pumping. The Levee Bike Path actually goes all the way to Baton Rouge along the river, but the quality of the ride drops off after St. Rose or so.

2. Audubon Park (6500 St. Charles Ave., 861-2537; www.auduboninstiture.org) 3. Lakefront

Best Golf Course

1. Audubon Park (6500 St. Charles Ave., 861-2537; www. auduboninstiture.org) — This course completed a $6 million renovation late in 2002, which subsequently earned it four-and-a-half stars from Golf Digest. The play is more challenging than it looks on the 4,189-yard par-62 course, which has four lagoons, lovely landscaping, and a refurbished clubhouse.

2.(TIE) English Turn (1 Clubhouse Drive, 391-8018; www. englishturn.com) and Bayou Oaks Golf Facility (1 Palm Drive, City Park, 483-9396; www. neworleanscitypark.com) 3. Eastover Country Club (5889 Eastover Drive, 245-7347; www. eastovercc.com)

Best Tennis Courts

1. City Park (1 Palm Court Drive, 483-9383; www.neworleanscitypark.com) — More than 70,000 people play on City Park’s dozens of tennis courts each year. Players can choose from rubico or laykold courts, and City Park has two stadium courts. The U.S. Tennis Association two years ago named City Park one of the outstanding public tennis facilities in the country.

2. Audubon Park (6500 St. Charles Ave., 861-2537; www. auduboninstiture.org) 3. New Orleans Lawn Tennis Club (5353 Laurel St., 899-1572)

Best Park

1. Audubon Park (6500 St. Charles Ave., 861-2537; www. auduboninstiture.org) — What can be more appealing than a large Uptown park that is lushly landscaped, has plenty of green space for Frisbee playing, volleyball, dog walking, bike riding, skating, or just stretching out and reading a book? There are fountains, a playground and a golf course, too.

2. City Park (1 Palm Drive, 482-4888; www.neworleanscitypark.com) 3. Lafreniere Park (3000 Down Blvd., Metairie, 838-4389 (www. metairie.com/recreation/ lafreniere)

Best Place to Get Married

1. Pavilion of the Two Sisters/ New Orleans Botanical Garden (City Park, 1 Palm Drive, 4882896) — The botanical garden offers 12 acres of flowering delight, anchored by the Pavilion of the Two Sisters, a graceful building modeled after a traditional European orangery. The arched windows in the pavilion provide views of a flute-player fountain sculpted by Enrique Alferez on one side and the original 1930s garden on the other.

2. St. Louis Cathedral (Jackson Square, 615 Pere Antoine Alley, 525-9585; www.stlouiscathedral.org) 3. Audubon Tea Room (6500 Magazine St., 212-5301; www.auduboninstitute.org)

Best Neighborhood/ Area to Buy a House

1. Uptown — Houses here come in a range of prices and sizes, and you can choose a neighborhood that’s edgy or upscale, one with deep social roots or one just coming into

its own with new renovations on old houses. The area provides everything you’ll need for shopping, entertainment, dining, churches and a choice of schools.

2. Lakeview 3. Old Metairie

Best Neighborhood/ Area to Rent

1. Uptown — Renting in this part of town is a definite departure from homogenized apartment buildings in other cities. Choose an apartment in an old home (preferably with a balcony) or rent an entire house and get a porch and yard in the bargain.

Look around for units that have been renovated to add modern conveniences without sacrificing character.

2. Mid-City 3. Faubourg Marigny

Best Festival

1. New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival — It’s a perennial favorite because it provides a huge bang for the buck with all-day music, Louisiana food, artworks and character watching. The weather this year may have been the best ever, and the schedule was the most adventurous in recent years. The biggest downside, if you can call it that, is that the multiple stages of Jazz Fest force visitors to make tough musical decisions every day.

2. French Quarter Festival 3. Voodoo Music Experience

Best Carnival Day Parade

1. Rex — How can one not be awed and inspired by all Rex represents: the King of Carnival, the krewe that gave Mardi Gras its official colors in 1872, and much of the holiday’s pomp and circumstance?

In keeping with traditions, many of which Rex set down, the Mardi Gras morning parade presents lovely floats designed along a traditional theme.

2. Zulu 3. Thoth

Best Carnival Night Parade

1. Endymion — Cyclops and centaurs and a phoenix, oh my! This year the krewe of Endymion sparked viewers’ imaginations with its especially artful representations of “Endymion’s Mythological Menagerie.” Paradegoers turn out in force every year for this glitzy parade, which always has its share of local luminaries and national celebs.

2. Bacchus 3. Muses

Best Day Trip

1. Mississippi Gulf Coast — It’s hard to compete with a destination that takes only

a few hours to reach and offers a slew of diversions.

These range from splashing in the Gulf of Mexico, sunbathing on beaches, gambling in casinos and catching national music acts, or wandering through museums and historic sites before trying a round of mini golf.

2. Jean Lafitte National Park and Preserve (Southeastern Louisiana, 589-2133; www.nps. gov/jela/) 3. St. Francisville

Best Cruise Line Out of New Orleans

1. Carnival Cruise Lines (www. carnival.com) — Carnival doesn’t call its vessels “Fun Ships” for nothing. The vacation begins the moment you cross the gangplank, as the liner itself is a floating resort with shopping, dining, casinos, swimming pools, bands, movies and other entertainment.

The ports of call can be as exotic as you choose.

2. Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines (www.royalcaribbean.com) 3. Delta Queen Steamboat Co. (www.deltaqueen.com)

MEDIA Best Radio Station

1. WWOZ-FM 90.7 — This perennial favorite is not only the “home of New Orleans roots music,” but its nonprofit, listener-supported status makes it a vehicle for musicoriented community projects too. The laid-back, groovy and, above all, knowledgeable ’OZ hosts serve as cultural ambassadors of sorts, as Internet radio streams (on www.wwoz. org) continue to attract listeners around the globe.

2. WDVW-FM 92.3 3. WWNO-FM 89.9

Best Local Radio Show

1. Walton & Johnson Morning Show, WKBU-FM 105.3 — Again the kings of the coveted drive-time audience, John Walton and Steve Johnson started in New Orleans and now broadcast from Houston.

Their irreverent, opinionated, politically incorrect banter is fueled by the show’s “cast members,” Billy Ed, Mr. Kenneth, Mr. Eaux and others. And, yes, even though they’re in Houston, John and Steve still give a Gambit shout-out now and then.

2. The Food Show, WWL-AM 870 3. Kidd Kraddick in the Morning, WEZB-FM 97.1

Best Local Radio Talk Show Host

1. Garland Robinette, The Think Tank, WWL-AM 870 — Reporter-turned-public-relationsexecutive-turned-radio-talkshow-host (and accomplished artist) Garland Robinette

had big shoes to fill when he permanently took over an ailing David Tyree’s weekday time slot this spring. Listeners have clearly responded to Robinette’s intelligent discourse on politics and current events.

2. Tom Fitzmorris, The Food Show, WWL-AM 870 3. John “Spud” McConnell, The Spud Show, WWL-AM 870

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Best Local Publication

1. Gambit Weekly — Let’s face it, our perennial top spot in this category may be a bit skewed — after all, voters did have to open a Gambit or visit our Web site to cast their ballots. But with added comments like “You guys rock!” and “Best. Rag. EVER!” … well, what can we say? You equally rock.

2. The Times-Picayune 3. New Orleans Magazine

Best Local Journalist/ Columnist

1. Chris Rose, The Times-Picayune — The only journalist to also get votes for “Best Local Actor,” this flip celeb-stalking columnist again proves himself a local fave. What other journo could win this category shortly after publishing an article about his work ethic this summer, in which he “did a lot of nothing” and “avoided writing in all forms”?

2. Clancy DuBos, Gambit Weekly 3. Angus Lind, The TimesPicayune

Best Local TV Newscast

1. WWL-TV — Angela, Dennis, Sally-Ann and the gang are once again tops with our readers — not to mention a bunch of Nielsen households. The morning and evening broadcasts by this CBS affiliate are among Nielsen’s highest-rated news programs, and WWL has distinguished itself by earning five Peabody Awards during its three-decade history.

2. WDSU-TV 3. WVUE-TV

Best Local Male TV Anchor

1.(TIE) Eric Paulsen, WWL-TV, and Norman Robinson, WDSUTV — For many New Orleans news junkies, the genial Eric Paulsen is as integral to their morning routine as a cup of coffee. The veteran newsman and St. Louis native makes WWL’s expanded Eyewitness Morning News a ratings winner along with co-anchor Sally-Ann Roberts.

Norman Robinson’s path to TV news popularity wound through channels as diverse as the U.S. Naval School of Music (he is a concert euphonium player) and Harvard University. Robinson in the www.bestofneworleans.com | August 30, 2005 | Gambit Weekly

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BEST OF NEW ORLEANS®

past has considered a run for public office; given the results of this poll, he may be onto something.

2. Roop Raj, WDSU-TV 3. Dennis Woltering, WWL-TV

Best Local Female TV Anchor

1. Karen Swensen, WWL-TV — Karen Swensen shows it’s possible to simultaneously be a hard-hitting journalist and still remain as likeable as they come.

The WWL evening anchor and reporter counts two prestigious Edwin R. Murrow Awards among her long list of professional accolades.

2. Angela Hill, WWL-TV 3.(TIE) Helena Moreno, WDSU-TV, and Susan Roesgen, WGNO-TV

Best Dressed Local Male TV Personality

1. Norman Robinson, WDSUTV — Maybe Robinson’s music background is what makes him such a smooth dresser. His sartorial style always fits the occasion, whether he’s at the anchor desk in an impeccably tailored suit or hosting a tribute to the Broadway show Hair in a trippy ’60s outfit and huge Afro.

2. David Bernard, WWL-TV 3. Lee Zurik, WWL-TV

Best Dressed Local Female TV Personality

1. Angela Hill, WWL-TV — The Divine Ms. Hill has been a stylish part of WWL’s news coverage for 30 years now.

Whether on air or during her many public appearances throughout the year, Hill’s professional appearance is always tempered by a splash of her own personal flair.

2. Karen Swensen, WWL-TV 3. Helena Moreno, WDSU-TV

Best Local TV Reporter Who’s Ready To Go National

1. Helena Moreno, WDSU-TV — It’s not that Gambit readers are trying to get rid of Helena Moreno, despite her repeat wins in this category. To the contrary, fans say Moreno’s spot reporting and weekend stints at the anchor desk have been an asset to local news coverage since she joined Channel 6 in 2000.

2. Roop Raj, WDSU-TV 3. Lee Zurik, WWL-TV

Best Local TV Weathercaster

1. Bob Breck, WVUE-TV — Not every meteorologist has his own Web site (www. bobbreck.com), but not every meteorologist is Bob

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Best Brass Band: Rebirth Brass Band Breck. You can’t argue with his expertise and in-depth weather analyses that are often spot-on. As dicey as it is to predict this area’s volatile weather patterns, when Breck says a storm’s coming, people listen.

2. David Bernard, WWL-TV 3. Carl Arredondo, WWL-TV

Best Local TV Sportscaster

1. Jim Henderson, WWL-TV — Henderson’s a broadcast veteran with a big following.

His Saints play-by-plays are so entertaining, his sports analyses so insightful, and his on-air style so engaging he’s won the Louisiana Sportscaster of the Year award from the Sportswriting and Sportscasters’ Association no less than a dozen times in a row.

2. Lee Zurik, WWL-TV 3. Fletcher Mackel, WDSU-TV

Best Local Commercial 1. New Orleans Saints, “You Gotta Have Faith” — We imagine the staff at Peter A. Mayer Advertising is doing an end-zone victory dance after scoring big yet again with its latest Saints campaign. These TV spots capture the essence of Saints fans themselves: punchy, optimistic and entertaining as hell.

2. WWL-TV, “Spirit of Louisiana”

3. Abita Brewing Co.

Best Locally Produced TV Show 1. Morgus Presents, Cox Channel 10 — Did anyone really think this year’s Best of New Orleans® cover boy Dr. Momus Alexander Morgus could reappear on TV unheralded? The mad-scientist alter ego of Sidney Noel Rideau first gained a devoted audience in the late ’50s with his goofy WWL-TV show House of Shock, and his fan base has grown exponentially over the years.

2. Fourth Down on Four, WWL-TV 3. Steppin’ Out, WYES-TV

Best Reason to Pick Up Gambit Weekly 1. Arts, entertainment and music news — Gambit strives to fulfill the mission of a true alt-weekly by exploring every nook and cranny of what makes its home city such an amazing and entertaining place to live. Over the past year, we have doubled our efforts to make both our print and online listings the most comprehensive in the city.

So thanks for noticing.

2. Local news and investigative reports 3. Restaurant information

GOODS AND SERVICES Best Men’s Clothing Store

1. Perlis Inc. (6070 Magazine St., 895-8661; Jackson Brewery, 600 Decatur St., 5236681; Riverwalk Marketplace, 1 Poydras St., 581-6746; 1281 N. Causeway Blvd., Mandeville, 985-674-1711; www.perlis. com) — Many a New Orleans man (and boy) has preceded an important life event with a fitting at Perlis for a classically tailored suit or tuxedo. More casual moments are reserved for Perlis’ signature Cajun Clothing Co. “crawfish” line and golf togs, all designed to sustain their style throughout even the stickiest of summer days.

2. Rubenstein Bros. (102 St. Charles Ave., 581-6666; www. rubensteinsfashion.com) 3. Jos. A. Bank Clothiers (230 Carondelet St., 528-9491; 3213 17th St., Metairie, 6202265; www.josbank.com)

Best Women’s Clothing Store

1. Hemline (609 Chartres St., 529-3566; 7916 Maple St., 862-0420; 3025 Magazine St., 269-4005; www.hemlinenola.com) — In these well-appointed boutiques, trendy music thumps from the speakers as fashionsavvy salespeople help

customers select from a consistently replenished array of recent styles. Choices range from sleek, elegant couture to upper-end funky wear and shoes.

2. Ann Taylor (The Shops at Canal Place, 333 Canal Place, 529-2306; New Orleans Shopping Centre, 1400 Poydras St., 587-9101; Lakeside Shopping Center, 3301 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 835-1127; www.anntaylor.com) 3. Ah-ha (3129 Magazine St., 269-2442)

Best Children’s Clothing Store 1. Gap Kids (Citywide; www. gap.com) — Gap Kids offers the same fun, fashionable and durable outfitting for tots that their parents grew up with. Frequent sales on clothing, bathing suits, underwear and accessories make back-to-school, summer camp and growth spurts a little easier on grownups’ wallets.

2. Pippen Lane (2929 Magazine St., 269-0106, www. pippenlane.com) 3. Mignon for Children (The Rink, 2727 Prytania St., 891-2374)

Best Clothing Store for Teenagers

1. The Gap/ Gap Kids (Citywide; www.gap.com) — Back in the day, this trendy store

“When my physician recommended surgery to remove my prostate, I began looking for options named itself after the “generation gap” that separated its young clientele from the Establishment. Today, the Gap outfits everyone from babies to grandparents, but its youthful styles remain at the forefront. Here the emphasis is always on that teen fashion staple: the perfect-fitting pair of jeans.

2. Old Navy (Citywide; www.oldnavy.com) 3. Forever 21 (Lakeside Shopping Center, 3301 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 834-9620)

that would offer the fewest complications after surgery. I found Ochsner, a new robotic surgical technique, and an easy return to a normal life.”

ART HOUSTON HARAHAN, LA

Best Shoe Store for Men

1. Dillard’s (Citywide; www.dillards.com) — All the styles sought by the wellshod gentlemen are here: Coach, Cole Haan, Ecco and Mephisto, as well as Diesel, Steve Madden and Timberland.

Dress shoes? No problem. Dress sneakers? Covered. Driving mocs, loafers and sandals? Check, check, check. Seasonal sales provide regular opportunities to score deals on fine footwear.

2. Rubenstein Bros. (102 St. Charles Ave., 581-6666; www.rubensteinsfashion.com) 3. Johnston & Murphy (The Shops at Canal Place, 333 Canal St., 524-4039; Lakeside Shopping Center, 3301 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 837-0449; www.johnstonmurphy.com)

Best Shoe Store for Women

1. Shoe Nami (3102 Magazine St., 895-1717; 807 Royal St., 524-3522; 3319 Severn Ave., Metairie, 885-0805) — What do our readers love about Shoe Nami? Let us count the ways: low prices on trendy shoes, fun accessories, rock-bottom sales, cool sales clerks, and have we mentioned the low prices on trendy shoes? Shoe Nami also groups its wares by color, a layout we wish more shoe retailers would adopt.

2. Shoefty (6010 Magazine St., 8968737; 240 Metairie Road, Metairie, 833-7472) 3. Feet First (4119 Magazine St., 8996800; 518 Chartres St., 566-7525)

The latest four-arm generation robotic surgical system allows the surgeon’s hands to be translated into precise movements using highly developed micro-instruments. For the patient, this means: • faster recovery • shorter hospitalization • less blood loss • less chance of damage to critical nerves • less pain post-surgery • fewer complications after surgery This technology enhances Ochsner’s world-famous surgical expertise in the removal of cancerous prostate glands and is useful in a number of cardiovascular procedures. For more information about the advantages of this new surgical system, call 504-842-PSA1 (7721), or to reach us by email, please visit our website www.ochsner.org/robotics.

Best Place to Buy Evening Wear

1. Saks Fifth Avenue (The Shops at Canal Place, 301 Canal St., 524-2200;

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Best scenester B Y

F R A N K

E T H E R I D G E

D

id somebody order a stripper?”

Just days removed from his 15th birthday, Gregory — Lil’ Gregory, MC Gregory, a kid whose last name “is on the super-duper down low” — steps into a Garden District apartment, delivering his joke with an aura that seems larger than his boyish frame. A high-wattage smile breaks through the baby fat, and Gregory begins working a room filled with strangers and friends at least twice his age.

His humor, warmth, intelligence and awkward youth are all on display.

Gregory sets down his bag and pulls out copies of his just-pressed debut album, along with old fliers for a birthday bash/ CD-release party from a few nights back. “August 4th, same day Louis Armstrong was born,” Gregory informs. The flier reads: “He teamed up with his AunPHOTO BY AARON THORNTON tie to bring you delicious sweet potato pies and chocolate cookies. Now he’s doing his own thing.”

Gregory pulls out a copy of “his own thing,” a locally produced freestyle rap album, How I Feel. On the 10-song disc, Gregory waxes anti-drug wisdom and his ambition to be the first black president.

But for now, he’s content to pull a ludicrously oversized velour coat off the wall, put it on and deliver a brief freestyle to the drunken requests of his audience. “Contact! Contact! … Get back!” he raps, thrusting a slap motion in time with the words.

The dinner party winds down, and Gregory takes a seat in front of the laptop computer owned by the hostess, Manon Mashburn. He winds up staying at Mashburn’s until way past midnight.

“I was checking my fan mail,” Gregory says later.

“He hangs around from time to time,” says Mashburn, who would eventually drive him home to nearby Chippewa Street. “I try to take him home when he’s over, because his neighborhood’s kind of scary.”

The early August CD-release show was followed by a late-night pool party at a Garden District mansion owned by another friend of Gregory’s. “It was bumping with all kinds of honeys all night,” brags Gregory.

“It was a good vibe; it was a good party,” recalls 29-year-old New York transplant Aaron Thornton of Gregory’s birthday bash. “All the people there were around my age. Everybody knows him. It seems odd at first — that all his friends are older — but then you see Greg’s range and his scope.”

Thornton first met Gregory after the teen performed at House of Blues earlier this year. Days later, Thornton invited Gregory to his in-house studio, where he laid down beats for Gregory to freestyle over. The result was How I Feel, released on Thornton’s Dubla label.

“He had this stage presence that commanded the attention of the audience,” Thornton says. “His freestyle skills at his age are great. He’s youthful, but you can tell he could develop into a great voice.”

Gregory’s first introduction to the scenester life came at the tender age of 8, when he struck up a friendship with Galactic saxophonist Ben Ellman. “I met him just passing through the neighborhood,” Gregory says. “Every time I would see him outside moving his instruments, I would just go up and start talking to him.”

Gregory’s friendship with Ellman led to a succession of stints with local bands, first with hip hop-infused rock group Iris Mae Tango, then hardcore metal outfit Mangina. Most recently, Gregory rapped to Prince-influenced experimental rock of the White Bitch.

The friendship has soured between Gregory and the White Bitch, aka Michael Patrick Welch, a local writer and educator who picked up the stage name while teaching in Orleans Parish public schools.

Yet, Welch says he wants the best for the kid. “I want to help him on his path — it’s an awesome path,” says Welch, who’s known Gregory for four years, initially by helping him learn to swim at his girlfriend’s pool. “He started challenging me, fighting with me. I’m trying to help him not ruin this thing he has.”

Gregory says everything is cool between him and Welch, even though there’s some confusion about who currently has whose microphone.

Just three days before he starts high school at O. Perry Walker, Gregory sits at a sidewalk table at a Magazine Street cafe, chatting with the pretty 20somethings he knows strolling by. “Magazine Street between Washington and Louisiana, that’s my territory,” he says. “I’ve hung out here every single day of my life.”

“They’re hipsters,” Gregory says in summation of his adopted crowd. “I don’t really know too many children my age. Because in my neighborhood, they’re not doing anything besides stealing cars.”

Gregory waits patiently for a ride to Metairie from an older friend, who’s taking him to pick up a donated computer. He turns serious for a brief spell, talking about his future.

“Well, I don’t really know if I’m going to be president someday,” Gregory admits, referring to his GW on-album boast to that ambition. “But, yeah, there’s a lot I plan to do.” GW

For all things Gregory, visit http://mcgregory.itique.net.

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BEST OF NEW ORLEANS®

Best Neighborhood Grocery on the Northshore: Rouse’s Supermarket PHOTO BY GINA LEBLANC/DONN YOUNG STUDIO

www.saksfifthavenue.com) — When it’s essential that you make an entrance, Saks Fifth Avenue carries the designer couture that will get the job done. Boasting straight-offthe-runway collections and sales associates whose job is to make you look fantastic, Saks has everything needed for a glamorous night out.

2. Dillard’s (Citywide; www. dillards.com) 3. Perlis Inc. (6070 Magazine St., 895-8661; Jackson Brewery, 600 Decatur St., 523-6681; Riverwalk Marketplace, 1 Poydras St., 581-6746; 1281 N. Causeway Blvd., Mandeville, 985-674-1711; www.perlis.com)

Best Place to Buy a Men’s Suit

1. Perlis Inc. (6070 Magazine St., 895-8661; Jackson Brewery, 600 Decatur St., 523-6681; Riverwalk Marketplace, 1 Poydras St., 581-6746; 1281 N. Causeway Blvd., Mandeville,

(985) 674-1711; www.perlis. com) — Sure, Perlis carries fashionable casuals and ladies’ styles, but its focus has always remained on the fundamentals: a well-crafted men’s suit.

For 66 years, the Perlis family has tailored men for upscale workplaces and formal events, with an emphasis on oldschool Southern standards like seersucker and linen.

2. Rubenstein Bros. (102 St. Charles Ave., 581-6666; www. rubensteinsfashion.com) 3. Jos. A. Bank (230 Carondelet St., 528-9491; 3213 17th St., Metairie, 620-2265; www.josbank.com)

Best Place to Buy Lingerie

1. Victoria’s Secret (Citywide; www.victoriassecret.com) — It’s no secret that women love getting presents wrapped in that pink-and-white box — and their significant others don’t usually mind giving

them, either. This shoppingmall fixture carries everything from fancy frillies to prettybut-practical underthings, pajamas, hosiery, casual wear, swimsuits and luxurious lotions, sachets and scents.

2. House of Lounge (2044 Magazine St., 671-8300; www.houseoflounge.com) 3. Basics Underneath (5513 Magazine St., 894-1000)

Best Place to Buy Vintage Clothing

1. Funky Monkey (3127 Magazine St., 899-5587) — A tried-and-true clothing exchange at heart, this Magazine Street shopping destination is known for funky retro styles and prices you can’t beat on “gently worn” threads. Both genders get equal space here, and those who find it hard to part with fabulous clothes that no longer fit can trade them in for cash or store credit.

www.bestofneworleans.com | August 30, 2005 | Gambit Weekly

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Best way to do

the CCC B Y

J E R E M Y

A L F O R D

PHOTO BY CHERYL GERBER

T

he fog was starting to break over the Mississippi as the ferry took us from Algiers Point to the Central Business District. A paddle wheeler sat docked in my view, growing larger as we made our way across the river. The spring wind blew cool on my face as the ferry dodged debris and busy towboats. My wife and her family began stretching and twisting, discussing the race to come. I lit a Marlboro and shook my head. They chatted back and forth about running for a while, then walking. I took out my wallet and counted the bills, wondering how many Bloody Marys I would be able to drink before resorting to my debit card.

The in-laws were in for a totally different experience than me. I felt sorry for them, as well as the more than 18,000 other runners that had signed up for this year’s Crescent City Classic. By competing in the race, they have no idea what they’re missing. The best way to enjoy the Classic, in my opinion, is to not take part. My annual April adventure always involves a water gun, taunts and laughter, tomato juice and vodka. As for my in-laws, their journey includes running and breathing heavy, putting on an act like it’s no big deal to complete 10,000 meters, which is 6.2 miles, my fatherin-law tells me — Mr. Stan is studying to be a Lutheran pastor, so I’ll take his word for it.

The Crescent City Classic runs a beautiful course from historic Jackson Square through the financial district, along tree-lined Esplanade Avenue, until it finally finishes in historic City Park.

During a brisk jog on an early spring morning it’s truly breathtaking, or at least that’s what I’ve heard. I don’t run unless someone is chasing me.

My father-in-law is 57, pretty much bald and has severe arthritis, and there’s no doubt in my mind he would finish the Classic before me if I were to participate. But I don’t. Why they run is a mystery to me. Some guy from Kenya always wins. In fact, two of the favorites this race had visa problems and never got to compete.

This year, as is usual with everything else they attempt, the Clark family was late for the official start, which is 8:30 a.m. As the Olympic-caliber athletes in the first wave sprint by, I imagine a chainsaw-wielding lunatic chasing them and allow a chuckle to part my lips. Instead of walking down to the beginning of the race, my in-laws opted to jump in a few blocks from the square. Personally, I didn’t think they were off to a good start. If one of them happened to win — if everyone at the head of the race fell in a hole — they would be disqualified for cheating.

I trudge on. It’s an odd feeling walking against the flow of thousands of people. But as a journalist, I’ve been there before. When a chemical plant catches fire, you find yourself approaching the very gate people are rushing out from. In this case, however, I knew the runners were actually distancing themselves from MRB’s — one of my favorite bars to get a bloody Mary.

It would be another hour or so until I see my in-laws again, which isn’t a problem, because there are many things to do when not running in the Classic. For starters, there are always a bevy of nuts dressed up — this year I saw the Blues Brothers, Superman, a few drag queens and what appeared to be scampering roaches. There are also portly folks, like myself, who need encouragement. “You can do it,” I would yell. A thumbs up was usually returned my way and I felt like part of the race.

After 40 minutes of this, I decide to head over to City Park — in a cab, of course. Once in the area, I remove my water gun from my backpack. The first time I did this, I was scared someone would freak out, but I had heard there are homes along Esplanade that douse people with hoses.

And sure enough, the runners seemed to appreciate my water blaster. I likewise enjoyed shooting them. It was all very mutual.

I finally see my wife and Mr. Stan walking toward the finish line. There’s a camera area set up at the end of the race, and they seem to notice it because they begin to run. Once the picture is taken, they start walking again and I laugh. At the after party — food, drinks, New Orleans fare — I manage to swindle my wife’s free beer ticket and start to relax. After all, it had been a really GW rough morning for us all. GW

Freelance writer Jeremy Alford says he will join in next year’s Classic, as a walker. For more information, see www.jeremyalford.com. www.bestofneworleans.com | August 30, 2005 | Gambit Weekly

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BEST OF NEW ORLEANS®

2. Buffalo Exchange (3312 Magazine St., 891-7443; www.buffaloexchange.com) 3. (TIE) Thrift City (4125 S. Carrollton Ave., 482-0736) and Turncoats Clothing Exchange (1926 Magazine St., 299-9004)

Best Place to Buy a Swimsuit

1. Dillard’s (Citywide; www. dillards.com) — With a huge variety of styles for every figure, and suits that range from functional to purely decorative, Dillard’s is our readers’ pre-summer or pre-vacation destination for a good-looking swimsuit. A range of swim accessories such as sarongs and cover-ups complete the surfside or poolside look.

2. Target (4500 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 8882184; 1731 Manhattan Blvd., Harvey, 227-2014; www.target. com) 3. Macy’s (New Orleans Centre, 1400 Poydras St., 592-5985; The Esplanade, 1401 W. Esplanade Ave., Kenner, 465-3985; www.macys.com)

Best Department Store

1. Dillard’s (Citywide; www. dillards.com) — Clothes, shoes, jewelry and accessories, cosmetics, electronics, home furnishings, appliances — it’s all under one roof, with products from upper-end suppliers and enough sales and discounts to keep thrifty shoppers happy.

2. Macy’s (New Orleans Centre, 1400 Poydras St., 592-5985; The Esplanade, 1401 W. Esplanade Ave., Kenner, 465-3985; www.macys.com) 3. Saks Fifth Avenue (The Shops at Canal Place, 301 Canal St., 524-2200; www.saksfifthavenue.com)

Best Shopping Mall

1. Lakeside Shopping Center (3301 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 835-8000; www.lakesideshopping.com) — Lakeside Mall billed itself as “a shoppers’ dream come true” when it opened in the 1960s, and folks still love it today. Shoppers can find local and national retailers here, and special events such as bridal and floral shows, health and wellness fairs, antiques and art exhibits, and live concerts provide the extras that keep the mall constantly bustling.

2. The Shops at Canal Place (333 Canal St., 522-9200; www. theshopsatcanalplace.com) 3. The Esplanade (1401 W. Esplanade Ave., Kenner, 465-2161; www.shoptheesplanade.com)

Best Thrift Store

1. Thrift City (4125 S. Carrollton Ave., 482-0736) — This ginormous store next to Mid-City Lanes boasts racks upon racks of men’s, women’s and kids’ clothes in good shape — some

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Best Day Trip: Mississippi Gulf Coast PHOTO COURTESY MISSISSIPPI GULF COAST CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

with the original tags intact — plus toys, shoes, costumes and accessories. Regular price specials make it even cheaper for bargain hunters to score hidden treasures here.

2. Goodwill Industries of Southeastern Louisiana (Citywide; www.goodwill.org) 3. Salvation Army (Citywide; www.salvationarmysouth.org)

Best Toy Store

1. Toys R Us (Citywide; www. toysrus.com) — Whether you’re stocking up for a real child or your inner child, Toys R Us has nostalgic favorites — Twister, anyone? — alongside the most innovative learning toys available today. Video games, sports equipment, books and school supplies are also on the shelves in this vast superstore.

2. Magic Box Ltd. (5508 Magazine St., 899-0117) 3. Le Jouet Inc. (1700 Airline Drive, Metairie, 837-0533)

Best Place to Buy Furniture

1. Hurwitz Mintz Furniture Co. (211 Royal St., 568-9555; 1751 Airline Drive, Metairie, 3781000; www.hurwitzmintz.com) — More than 115,000 square

feet of showroom space ensure that whatever look you’re going for in your home, you’ll find it here. This nationally acclaimed emporium has decorated New Orleans-area homes for generations, not only with fine furniture but also with carpeting, lighting, custom drapery and wall coverings.

2. Kirschman’s (5800 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 8892770; www.kirschman.com) 3. Doerr Furniture Inc. (914 Elysian Fields Ave., 947-0606)

Best Place to Buy Lamps/ Lighting

1. Lighting Inc. (4201 Tulane Ave., 486-5761; Pontchartrain Square, 3547 Hwy. 190, Mandeville, 985-727-9368; www.lightinginconline.com) — Not only does this specialty store provide all manner of illumination for the home, but it teaches customers “how to design with light.” Lamps and chandeliers are just the beginning — Lighting Inc. also carries bathroom fixtures, ceiling fans and landscape lighting from a vast stock of suppliers.

2. The Home Depot (Citywide; www.homedepot.com) 3. Lowe’s Home Improvement

Warehouse (1351 Manhattan Blvd., Harvey, 227-0495; 3640 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 780-0114; www.lowes.com)

Best Antiques Store

1. M.S. Rau (630 Royal St., 523-5660; www.rauantiques. com) — Since Max Rau opened up his little French Quarter antiques shop in 1912, M.S. Rau has gathered marvelous acquisitions from around the globe. Offering rare jewelry, furniture, home accessories, fine art and even wine, the third generation of Raus keep customers happy with their “125 percent guarantee,” appraisal services, and inclusion in their “Members’ Only” club.

2. Royal Antiques Ltd. (309 Royal St., 524-7033) 3. Bush Antiques (2109 Magazine St., 581-3518; www.bushantiques.com)

Best Fabric Store

1. Fabrixx Inc. (755 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 8311118; 51 Park Place Drive, Covington, 985-809-1110) — Once again this local home-design mecca wins approval from readers who love its affordable prices and huge selection of fine fabrics. A supplier for DIYers as well as the design professionals on “Extreme Makeover Home Edition,” Fabrixx will also do upholstering and other custom work.

2. Jo-Ann Fabric & Crafts (Citywide; www.joann.com) 3. Hancock Fabrics (Citywide; www.hancockfabrics.com)

Best Place to Buy a Wedding Gift

1. Coleman E. Adler & Sons Inc. (722 Canal St., 523-5292; Lakeside Shopping Center, 3301 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 523-5292; Oakwood Shopping Center, 197 Westbank Expwy., Gretna, 523-5292; www.adlersjewelery.com) — The wedding registry here reads like a who’s who of local engaged couples. Adler’s carries a broad selection of table- and barware and gifts for the home, and whether you’re buying for a pragmatic pair (a ceramic oyster plate) or an extravagant duo (a Waterford crystal ice bucket), you’ll find it here.

2. Dillard’s (Citywide; www.dillards.com) 2. Macy’s (New Orleans Centre, 1400 Poydras St., 592-5985; The Esplanade, 1401 W. Esplanade Ave., Kenner, 465-3985; www.macys.com)

Best Place to Have Something Framed

1. Gordon’s (605 Lapalco Blvd., Gretna, 393-9121; 725 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 837-9416; 2518 Williams Blvd., Kenner, 469-2472; www.

gordonsof.com) — This locally owned home-furnishings store boasts an extensive frame shop that offers a huge selection of framing materials, styles and finishes. Choose from stock frames, mats and glass from wallet-size on up, or get a piece custom-designed by the pros.

2. Michael’s Arts & Crafts (1200 S. Clearview Pkwy., Harahan, 818-2112; 8851 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 4649884; www.michaels.com) 3. Lakeview Gallery and Framing (910 Harrison Ave., 482-2606; 819 W. Esplanade Ave., Kenner, 464-1444; www.lakeviewgallery.com)

Best Jewelry Store

1. Coleman E. Adler & Sons Inc. (722 Canal St., 523-5292; Lakeside Shopping Center, 3301 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 523-5292; Oakwood Shopping Center, 197 Westbank Expwy., Gretna, 523-5292; www.adlersjewelery.com) — Many an engagement has been sealed over a little box from Adler’s. Coleman Adler started out more than 100 years ago as a French Quarter jeweler, and the Adler family’s scrupulous attention to fine gemstones, precious metals, and styles from classic to contemporary has stood the test of time.

2. Mignon Faget Ltd.(3801 Magazine St., 891-2005; The Shops at Canal Place, 333 Canal St., 524-2973; Lakeside Shopping Center, 3301 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 835-2244; www. mignonfaget.com) 3. Aucoin Hart Jewelers (1525 Metairie Road, Metairie, 8349999; www.aucoinhart.com)

Best Dry Cleaner

1. Liberto Cleaners (4814 Prytania St., 897-2161; 8128 Willow St., 861-7812) — Not only will Liberto dry clean or launder any and every fabric you can possibly soil, but the company offers pick-up and delivery service, carpet and rug cleaning, and clothing alterations and repairs.

2. Deluxe Laundry, Cleaners, Storage (5325 Canal Blvd., 488-7733) 3. Young’s Professional Dry Cleaners (Citywide)

Best Hospital

1. Touro Infirmary (1401 Foucher St., 891-7011; www.touro.com) — Touro has come a long way since 1852, when it was founded as New Orleans’ only community-oriented, faith-based nonprofit hospital. Through the years it has offered the most innovative treatments available, and today it prides itself on, among other accomplishments, having one of the premier physical rehabilitation centers in the country.

2. Ochsner Clinic Foundation (1514 Jefferson Hwy., 8423000; www.ochsner.org.)

3. East Jefferson General Hospital (4200 Houma Blvd., Metairie, 454-4000; www. eastjeffhospital.com)

Best Hospital to Have a Baby

1. Lakeside Hospital (4700 South I-10 Service Road, Metairie, 780-8282; www. lakesidehospital.com) — Once again, moms and dads have chosen Lakeside as the best place to welcome their newest family member. The hospital recently merged with Tulane University Hospital and Clinic to form the Tulane-Lakeside Hospital.

Tulane plans to transfer its labor and delivery services to Lakeside, citing the superior birthing center there.

2. Touro Infirmary (1401 Foucher St., 891-7011; www.touro.com) 3. Memorial Medical Center, Baptist Campus (2700 Napoleon Ave., 899-9311; www.memmedctr.com)

Best Pediatrician

1. Stephen W. Hales, M.D. (3525 Prytania St., 897-0744) — With six grown sons of his own, this popular Uptown doc has a way with kids that’s earned him a top spot on this year’s poll. For generations, Hales has reassured anxious parents with sound advice about medical and behavioral issues. He is also a longtime member on the Board of Trustees for Children’s Hospital of New Orleans.

2.(TIE) Paul Giorlando, M.D. (IMG Health Care, 6030 Bullard Ave., Suite 200, 246-4894; 2201 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 833-7374)and J. Kent Treadway, M.D. (4325 Clara St., 899-5628) 3. Keith Perrin, M.D. (2820 Napoleon Ave., 897-4242)

Best Plastic Surgeon

1. Gustavo A. Colon, M.D. (1221 Clearview Pkwy., Jefferson, 888-4297) — Chief of plastic and reconstructive surgery at Ochsner Clinic Foundation, Colon combines the aesthetic touch of an artist with nationally renowned medical expertise. He is sought by patients for cosmetic and healthrelated procedures alike, and has also participated in humanitarian missions to Latin American countries.

2. John Church, M.D. (3525 Prytania St., 895-4561) 3. Michael Moses, M.D. (1603 Second St., 895-7200; www.drmoses.com)

Best Chiropractor

1.(TIE) Sylvi Beaumont, D.C. (1138 S. Carrollton Ave., 8641234) and Ken Christensen, www.bestofneworleans.com | August 30, 2005 | Gambit Weekly

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D.C.(2447 Royal St., 948-3215) — Beaumont has been practicing chiropractic since 1981. With a focus on treating “fixations,” or non-moving joints, and on correcting muscular imbalances, Beaumont helps patients achieve physical balance through a whole-lifestyle approach.

For 36 years, Christensen has built a solid reputation with his holistic approach and use of natural therapies for both healing and wellness, including foot reflexology, motion palpation and craniosacral therapy.

2. Mark B. Kruse, D.C. (4416 Trenton St., Metairie, 885-8899) 3. Gerry Provance, D.C.(Provance Chiropractic Sports and Family Clinic, 2007 Clearview Pkwy., Metairie, 456-9296)

Best Health Club

1. Elmwood Fitness Center (701 Poydras St., Suite 1300, 5881600; 1200 S. Clearview Pkwy., Suite 1200, Harahan, 733-1600; 111 Veterans Blvd., Suite 475, Metairie, 832-1600; www.elm-

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woodfitness.com) — These vast fitness centers offer the latest in workout technology, a variety of exercise classes, and wellness programs such as nutrition and weight loss. A division of Ochsner Clinic Foundation, Elmwood tailors its facilities for every member of the family.

2. Franco’s Lakeview Athletic Club (111 Robert E. Lee Blvd., 2868801; www.myfrancos.com) 3. New Orleans Athletic Club (222 N. Rampart St., 525-2375; www. neworleansathleticclub.com)

Best Place to Take a Yoga Class

1. Wild Lotus Yoga Studio (4842 Perrier St., 899-0047; www. wildlotusyoga.com) — For the third year in a row, New Orleansarea yogis have identified this tranquil little studio as a great place to get their stretch on.

Students ranging from babies to great-grandparents have found their zen in the variety of classes offered here, geared toward different intensities and skill levels. The studio also offers

Gambit Weekly | August 30, 2005 | www.bestofneworleans.com

opportunities for retreats, workshops and other extras.

2. Elmwood Fitness Center (701 Poydras St., Suite 1300, 588-1600; 1200 S. Clearview Pkwy., Suite 1200, Harahan, 7331600; 111 Veterans Blvd., Suite 475, Metairie, 832-1600; www. elmwoodfitness.com) 3. Franco’s Lakeview Athletic Club (111 Robert E. Lee Blvd., 2868801; www.myfrancos.com)

Best Barbershop

1. Aidan Gill for Men (2026 Magazine St., 587-9090; www.aidangillformen.com) — If you’re of the opinion that a proper shave is best paired with a hand-rolled cigar and a belt of good whiskey, you’ve found your haven at this unapologetic throwback to oldschool masculinity. Set your tot on an early path to good grooming with the “Child’s Heirloom Haircut,” which comes with a professional photograph.

2. The Golden Shears (6008 Magazine St., 895-9269) 3. Mr. Louis’ Barber Shop (8218 Maple St., 861-1055)

Best Hair Salon

1. Paris Parker Aveda Salons and Spas (Citywide; www.parisparker. com) — The philosophy here is that the best styling trick of all is a good haircut, so the stylists take the time to design the perfect cut to complement your hair type and texture, facial features, and lifestyle. Color, highlights and treatments (using all-natural Aveda products, natch) make every day a great hair day.

2. John Jay Beauty Salon (540 Robert E. Lee Blvd., 282-7234; 7600 St. Charles Ave., 866-2782; 3363 Severn Ave., Metairie, 889-1444) 3. H2O Salon & Day Spa (441 Metairie Road, Metairie, 835-4377; www.h2osalon-spa.com)

Best Day Spa

1. Belladonna Day Spa (2900 Magazine St., 891-4393; www. belladonnadayspa.com) — This perennial favorite on our readers’ poll takes its “Be” philosophy to luxurious heights. When you need to Be Rebalanced, Be

Energized, Be Invigorated, Be Soothed or anything else, Belladonna offers a long list of pampering spa services designed to make clients Be Happy.

2. H2O Salon & Day Spa (441 Metairie Road, Metairie, 835-4377; www.h2osalon-spa.com) 3. Earthsavers Relaxation Spa and Shop (Citywide; www.earthsaversonline.com)

Best Place to Get a Manicure/Pedicure 1. Belladonna Day Spa (2900 Magazine St., 891-4393; www. belladonnadayspa.com) — Manicures and pedicures aren’t just about the nails — the specialty services here include hand and foot massage, relaxing soaks, exfoliation scrubs, paraffin dips and an entire “lotion bar” with yummy balms for your skin.

2. Earthsavers Relaxation Spa and Shop (Citywide; www.earthsaversonline.com) 3. H2O Salon & Day Spa (441 Metairie Road, Metairie, 835-4377; www.h2osalon-spa.com)

Best Place to Get a Facial

1. Belladonna Day Spa (2900 Magazine St., 891-4393; www. belladonnadayspa.com) — Our mugs take a lot of abuse day in and day out, and Belladonna’s many offerings are designed to repair, restore and purify the skin. Complexion woes can be corrected with the “Be Repaired” hydrating treatment or the “Be Purified” deep-pore cleansing facial, or an esthetician will custom-create a treatment specific to your skin.

2. H2O Salon & Day Spa (441 Metairie Road, Metairie, 835-4377; www.h2osalon-spa.com) 3. Earthsavers Relaxation Spa and Shop (Citywide; www.earthsaversonline.com)

Best Place to Get a Massage

1. Belladonna Day Spa (2900 Magazine St., 891-4393; www. belladonnadayspa.com) — The full-body massages are popular, though the licensed massage therapists can focus your session on especially tense and

tender spots. Belladonna’s massage menu includes a variety of exotic options such as the Table Thai or “lazy man’s yoga” massage, which combines pressurepoint techniques with rhythmic rocking and compressions for deep body relaxation.

2. Earthsavers Relaxation Spa and Shop (Citywide; www.earthsaversonline.com) 3. The Spa at the Ritz-Carlton (Ritz-Carlton New Orleans, 921 Canal St., 524-1331)

Best Tanning Salon

1. Planet Beach (Citywide; www. planetbeach.com) — Life’s a beach year-round at these ever-popular “tanning spa” facilities. Planet Beach offers high-tech beds, skin-care products, and skin-type analysis to help customers “tan smart.”

Most franchises also carry before- and after-tan lotions and products, plus bathing suits and beachwear.

2. Bask Tanning & Hair Inc. (5300 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 885-2275; www.

basksalon.com) 3.(TIE) City Beach Tanning Salon (3000 Severn Ave., Metairie, 888-0017) and Maple Street Tanning (7716 Maple St., 866-5458)

Best Body Piercing/ Tattoo Parlor 1. Electric Ladyland Tattoo (8106 Earhart Blvd., 866-3859; 610 Frenchmen St., 947-8286; www. electricladyland.net) — Once again this pair of splashy tattoo/ piercing shops, under the eye of owner Annette LaRue, rates with our readers. A slew of talented house and guest tattoo artists are on hand to ink whatever you want — custom portraits, tribal designs, Asian characters or more— onto your skin, or help you invent a tat that’s all your own.

2. Rings of Desire Inc. (1128 Decatur St., 524-6147; www. ringsofdesire.com) 3. Eye Candy Tattoos & Body Piercing Saloon (1578 Magazine St., 299-8222; www.eyecandytattoo.com)

Best Place to Buy CDs

1. Tower Records (408 N. Peters St., 529-4411; www.towerrecords.com) — Towering over the lower French Quarter, this mega-music-superstore is home to every music genre imaginable, from straight-up rock ’n’ roll to classical to reggae to acid jazz. With in-store performances and a big staff just waiting to help you locate that obscure release, this is a good stop for any music lover.

2. Virgin Megastore (620 Decatur St., 671-8100; www.virginmegamagazine.com) 3. Best Buy (6205 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 780-0172; 1601 Westbank Expwy., Harvey, 364-0411; www.bestbuy.com)

Best CD Store to Find Music

By Local Artists

1. Tower Records (408 N. Peters St., 529-4411; www.towerrecords. com) — The Louisiana Room here is a trove of local music in all our native styles: jazz, Cajun, zydeco, blues, gospel, R&B, and music in other genres by local artists. CD-

Best VooDoo Player: Aaron Bailey PHOTO BY MICHAEL C. HEBERT COURTESY NEW ORLEANS VOODOO

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BEST OF NEW ORLEANS®

Best Garden Center: Perino’s Garden Center & Gifts PHOTO BY GINA LEBLANC/DONN YOUNG STUDIO

release parties help expose area musicians to the crowds that keep the registers ringing seven days a week.

2. Louisiana Music Factory (210 Decatur St., 586-1094, www. louisianamusicfactory.com) 3. Virgin Megastore (620 Decatur St., 671-8100; www. virginmegamagazine.com)

Best DVD/ Video Store

1. Blockbuster Video (Citywide; www.blockbuster.com) — It’s got new releases and classics, video games and foreign films, TV series on DVD, and movie snacks by the checkout counter. This national chain recently started a movie delivery service, and an “End of Late Fees” policy for chronically tardy customers.

2. Major Video (Citywide) 3.(TIE) Best Buy (6205 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 7800172; 1601 Westbank Expwy., Harvey, 364-0411; www.bestbuy. com)and Tower Records (408 N. Peters St., 529-4411; www. towerrecords.com)

Best Bookstore

1. Barnes & Noble (1601 Westbank Expwy., Harvey, 263-1146; 3721 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 455-4929; www. barnesandnoble.com) — Bib-

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liophiles can get lost in this vast bookstore that carries all manner of tomes from classics to recent bestsellers, fact to fiction. A dazzling range of subject matter is only the beginning — there are comic books, magazines, journals, calendars and more, all within ambling distance of a cup of Starbucks.

2. Maple Street Book Shop (7523 Maple St., 866-4916; www.maplestreetbookshop. com) 3. Octavia Books (513 Octavia St., 899-7323; www.octaviabooks.com)

Best Bookstore to Find Books by Local Authors

1. Maple Street Book Shop (7523 Maple St., 866-4916; www.maplestreetbookshop. com) — Run by free-thinking book lovers since 1964, the Maple Street Book Shop is a homey depository for great writing, much of it local or regional. Its children’s bookstore next door carries on the parent shop’s tradition of stocking the shelves with wellchosen, inventive works.

2. Barnes & Noble (1601 Westbank Expwy., Harvey, 263-1146; 3721 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 455-4929; www. barnesandnoble.com)

3. Octavia Books (513 Octavia St., 899-7323; www.octaviabooks.com)

Best Travel Agency

1. AAA (3445 N. Causeway Blvd, Suite 201, Metairie, 838-7500; www.aaa.com) — Though the phrase “Triple A” often conjures up visions of emergency road service, its travel agency can also help you plan and book your vacation arrangements whether by land, air or sea. AAA also offers a range of ancillary services including currency exchange and travel financing.

2. Brennan Travel (433 Metairie Road, Metairie, 835-3200; www.brennantravel.com) 3. Travel Central (3221 N. Causeway Blvd, Metairie, 8349464; www.travelcentralvacations.com)

Best Place to Buy a Pre-Owned Car

1. Bohn Bros. (Citywide; www. bohnzone.com) — Our readers head to the “Bohn Zone” when it’s time to pick up a reliable used vehicle. Bohn dealerships on the outskirts of New Orleans carry inventories of several foreign and domestic makes including Ford, Toyota, GMC, Buick, Mitsubishi and

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Best Place to Buy a New Car

1. Sewell Cadillac Chevrolet of New Orleans (701 Baronne St., 581-7585; www.sewell.com) — Now in its 20th year, this downtown dealership will do whatever it takes to get you behind the wheel of a shiny new Caddy or Chevy. The dealership’s self-proclaimed “obsession with service” means the staff focuses on building client relationships that continue beyond the purchasing process.

2. Bohn Bros.(Citywide, www.bohnzone.com) 3. Lexus of New Orleans (8811 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 467-7070; www.lexusneworleans.com)

Best Bank

1. Hibernia Bank (Citywide; www.hibernia.com) — Hibernia Bank has been a New Orleans landmark for 135 years, and throughout its storied history Hibernia has consistently been among the region’s most prominent financial institutions. We say goodbye to the name Hibernia this fall as its merger with Capitol One Bank becomes official.

2. Whitney Bank (Citywide; www.whitneybank.com) 3. Bank One/ JPMorgan Chase & Co. (Citywide; www.bankone.com)

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Best Wireless Phone Service

1. Cingular (Citywide; www.cingular.com) — As cell phones have evolved into sophisticated mini-computers, Cingular has stayed popular with customers through both its communications services (such as “rollover” minutes, family talk plans and an extensive national network) and cool features found on even the most basic of phones.

2. Sprint (Citywide; www.sprintpcs.com) 3. Verizon (Citywide; www.verizon.com)

Best Place to Buy Home Electronics

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2. Lexus of New Orleans (8811 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 467-7070; www.lexusneworleans.com) 3. Sewell Cadillac Chevrolet of New Orleans (701 Baronne St., 581-7585; www.sewell.com)

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1. Best Buy (6205 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 780-0172; 1601 Westbank Expwy., Harvey, 364-0411; www.bestbuy.com) — This superstore has everything you need to stay fully wired and plugged in at home. Whether you need a computer, camcorder, home theater system or an Ambient Stock Orb — a glass ball that glows different colors to indicate changes in the stock market — you’ll find it here.

2. Circuit City (Citywide; www.circuitcity.com) 3. A-1 Appliance and Electronics (Citywide)

Best Place to Buy a Camera

1. Lakeside Camera & Imaging (3508 21st St., Metairie, 885-8660; 2121 N. Causeway Blvd., Mandeville, 985626-1776; www.lakesidecamera.com) — Chances are your dream camera will be among Lakeside’s in-store selection of such brands as Nikon, Canon, Pentax, Fuji, Kodak and more. This www.bestofneworleans.com | August 30, 2005 | Gambit Weekly

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Best places to

spin your wheels B Y

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ew Orleans and the surrounding burbs should be a bicyclist’s paradise, what with the moderate weather (most of the year) and the level terrain. Finding great places to bike for pleasure can be challenging, however, because of narrow streets, cars parked on both sides and the accompanying threat of being doored, congested traffic, pitted and cobbled streets and drivers who don’t seem to want to share the road with their unmotorized brethren.

There are plans, as yet unrealized, to alleviate some of these problems with exclusive bike lanes and special shared traffic lanes around the city, but so far little has come to fruition. A joint project among the city, Louisiana PHOTO BY CHERYL GERBER Department of Transportation and Development and the Federal Highway Administration that would build a bike path from Jefferson Davis Parkway through City Park and on to Lakeshore Drive is scheduled to get underway this fall, and the city last year promised to spend $4 million to build a network of on-street bike lanes and signed routes over the next few years. That project is still in the planning stages.

All that aside, if you’re anxious to get out and test your legs, there are safe places to pedal where you can revel in Louisiana’s nature from a small saddle.

One of the most popular biking venues inside the city is along the south shore of Lake Pontchartrain, where many serious bikers train for races. It’s smooth sailing for about 6 miles from West End Boulevard past the University of New Orleans, and you can watch sailboats on the lake while you pedal along a smooth roadway. You’ll share the area with picnicking families, people fishing from the sea wall, skaters, dogs, and teenagers hanging out, and you’ll be serenaded with a variety of music coming from car stereos and boom boxes.

The two-lane, paved and elevated bike path along the Mississippi River levee near the dog park past Audubon Zoo gives bicyclists a chance to go all out, cruising along with dips and curves that make the ride a bit more interesting. You can make this trip an all-day affair — the path actually extends the whole 80 miles to Baton Rouge but becomes graveled and less smooth a dozen or so miles out of the city. As you ride, you can take in large ships sailing the major shipping channel, lots of families, babies and skaters on the front end of the trip, and if you’re lucky, you may catch a glimpse of the two American Bald Eagles that live near the country club in Harahan.

Further down, you can take a break at Kenner’s Rivertown and refill your water bottles. The strong-legged can continue out of town, where the scenery becomes a bit more pastoral and you eventually can take a water break (or a picnic lunch) on the grass with a breathtaking view of Ormond Plantation and its vast lawns near St. Rose.

A more leisurely ride can be had at Audubon Park across Magazine Street from Audubon Zoo, where it’s easy to get sidetracked onto the grass for a lay-down rest where you can gaze up at the trees or do a bit of people watching.

Nature lovers and serious bike enthusiasts should take a trip on the Tammany Trace on the Northshore. The state’s first rails-to-trails conversion currently provides a 17-to-20-mile ride on a 10-foot-wide asphalt trail through Mandeville, Abita Springs and Covington along the old Illinois Central Railroad. In the future, the project will extend the improved roadway through Lacombe and Slidell. You can start at Abita Springs Park and make a pit stop at the Abita Brew Pub for some locally made beer, or begin at the Trailhead in Mandeville, where the Kickstand Cafe has food, ice cream and bike rentals. The Trailhead also has an historical interpretative center, fountain and amphitheater. Along the trace, you can breathe in nature and may encounter occasional rollerbladers, joggers and even horse riders. No dogs are allowed.

While biking through the natural habitat of the Northshore, replete with pine forests, the Bogue Falaya River, swamps and marshes (on the Slidell end), take a side trip to the UCM Museum in Abita Springs ( you can also rent bikes there), which is full of curiosities uncommon to more staid purveyors of historic relics.

There are, of course, other places to ride, such as City Park in Mid-City, Lafreniere Park in Metairie and a host of other locales. Be sure to pick up a free pass that allows you to put your bike on a rack on an RTA bus for those times you get caught in the rain or are just pedaled out. They’re GW available at 2817 Canal St. GW

Imported by W.J. Deutsch & Sons, Ltd.

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BEST OF NEW ORLEANS®

do-it-all photo center also has whatever photographic accessories you’ll need to trick out your new purchase.

2. Best Buy (6205 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 7800172; 1601 Westbank Expwy., Harvey, 364-0411; www.bestbuy.com) 3. Bennett’s Camera & Video (3230 Severn Ave., Metairie, 885-9050, www.bennettscamera.com)

Best Bicycle Store

1. GNO Cyclery (1426 S. Carrollton Ave., 861-0023; www. gnocyclery.com) — Maybe you’re competing in the Tour de France, or maybe you’re just looking for a fun ride to the grocery store. GNO’s bicycle selection makes it easy to find the wheels you want, and its service staff is on hand to undo all the abuse that New Orleans potholes can mete out.

2. Joe’s Bicycle Shop (2509 Tulane Ave., 821-2354; www. joesbicycles.com) 3. Bayou Bicycles (3534 Toulouse St., 488-1946; www. bayoubicycles.com)

Best Sporting Goods Store

1. Academy Sports & Outdoors (50 Westside Shopping Center, Gretna, 363-8283; 1000 W. Esplanade Ave., Kenner, 712-3320; 800 Clearview Pkwy., Harahan, 729-4300; www.academy. com) — Whatever your sport or skill level — advanced, intermediate or weekend warrior — Academy carries the equipment, clothing and footwear you need. Ancillary goods and services such as barbecue grills, play sets, and hunting/fishing licenses make this an all-around activity supply store.

2. Sports Authority (5151 Citrus Blvd., Jefferson, 734-7271; www.thesportsauthority.com) 3. Massey’s High Performance Outdoors (3363 Severn Ave., Metairie 885-1144; 816 N. Hwy. 190, Covington, 985-809-7544; www.masseys.net)

Best Pet Groomers

1. PETsMART (6851 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 455-2222; 1321 Manhattan Blvd., Harvey, 263-0879; 1000 S. Clearview Pkwy., Jefferson, 733-2016; www.petsmart.com) — This pet emporium can bathe, clip, style, brush and trim your dirty dog or filthy feline, or supply the tools and products you need to do it yourself. The grooming centers here offer a variety of packages, including specialty services for puppies, kittens and pets with special needs.

2. Petco (Citywide; www. petco.com) 3. Pooch’s Palace (3440 Magazine St., 269-DOGS; www. poochspalace.com)

Best Pet Store

1. PETsMART (6851 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 455-2222; 1321 Manhattan Blvd., Harvey, 263-0879; 1000 S. Clearview Pkwy., Harahan, 733-2016; www.petsmart.com) — With huge stocks of food, pet supplies, and services ranging from behavior classes to in-store adoptions (working with local charities), PETsMART is our readers’ one-stop shop for everything their domestic critters require.

2. Petco (Citywide; www.petco. com) 3. Double M Feed (Citywide; www.doublemfeed.com)

Best Veterinary/ Animal Clinic

1. Causeway Animal Hospital (1315 N. Causeway Blvd., Metairie, 828-2700; www. causewayanimalhospital. petplace.com) — Offering advanced technologies such as laser therapy, endoscopy and ultrasound, plus a 24-hour nursing staff, Causeway is tops with readers who love their pets and their vets. Wellness programs and special services such as behavior counseling and “puppy kindergarten” make Causeway a comprehensive small animal-care center.

2. Metairie Small Animal Hospital (101 Metairie Road, Metairie, 835-4266; 5040 W. Esplanade Ave., Kenner, 455-2345; 4041 Williams Blvd., Kenner, 4434400; msah.cur.com) 3. Freret Veterinary Hospital (4730 Freret St., 895-6838)

Best Hotel

1. Windsor Court Hotel (300 Gravier St., 523-6000; www. thewindsorcourthotel.com) — Just like a home away from home — that is, if your home has a renowned restaurant, 24-hour room service, sumptuous furnishings and a museum-quality art collection. Since this luxury hotel opened in 1984, it has been consistently ranked by Travel & Leisure magazine as one of the world’s top hotels.

2. Ritz-Carlton New Orleans (921 Canal St., 524-1331; www. ritzcarlton.com) 3. W New Orleans (333 Poydras St., 525-9444; W French Quarter Hotel, 316 Chartres St., 581-1200; www.whotels.com)

Best Local Civil Attorney

1. Morris Bart (Morris Bart PLC, 909 Poydras St., 800-8762244; www.morrisbart.com) — Bart’s face is as well known to locals as his “one call, that’s all” catchphrase, but part of his success is owed to the dozens of attorneys in his longstanding New Orleans firm. Licensed to practice in several states and handling a wide range of civil cases, the staff at Morris Bart PLC prides itself on successful outcomes.

2. Lynn Luker (Lynn Luker & Associates LLC, 3433 Magazine St., 525-5500; www.llalaw.com) 3. Philip A. Wittmann (Stone Pigman Walther Wittmann, LLC, 546 Carondelet St., 581-3200; www.stonepigman.com)

Best Local Criminal Attorney

1. Frank DeSalvo (201 S. Galvez St., 821-3161, 524-4191) — Frank DeSalvo has built a storied career defending clients in cases that range from high-profile to obscure.

Recently in the news as counsel to Jefferson Parish Judge Alan Green, DeSalvo also devotes much of his time representing far less affluent clients including police officers and indigent defendants.

2. Ralph Capitelli (Capitelli & Wicker, Energy Centre, 1100 Poydras St., 582-2425) 3. Julian Murray Jr.(1 Galleria Blvd., Metairie, 833-5600)

Best Auto Repair Shop

1. Pep Boys Auto (Citywide, www.pepboys.com) — You can buy vehicle parts and supplies in this vast auto-parts store, and if you’re not comfortable fixing your own ride, one of the technicians in its service shop will do it for you.

Convenient hours plus frequent sales and specials keep customers driving back.

2.(TIE) Fleur de Lis Car Care (247 W. Harrison Ave., 4888044) and Crescent City Automotive Inc.(4619 Magazine St., 899-3800) 3. Trep’s Auto Service (318 N. Alexander St., 486-5884; www.trepsauto.com)

Best Florist

1. Villere’s Florist (1107 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 833-3716; 812 S. Tyler St., Covington, 985-809-9101; www.villeresflorist.com) — Once again, our readers pick Villere’s as their supplier for all things floral. Bouquets, plants, specialty arrangements, corporate gifts and other offerings make up the wide selection at this longstanding business, in operation since 1969.

2. Federico’s Family Florist (5606 Canal Blvd., 482-0249) 3. Harkins the Florist (1601 Magazine St., 529-1638)

Best Garden Center

1. Perino’s Garden Center & Gifts (3100 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 834-7888; www. perinos.com) — Bring your green (or not-so-green) thumb to this sprawling garden center for plants, supplies, ornaments, landscape lighting, fountains, and everything else you need to make your world more lush. Knowledgeable staff members are on hand to answer your gardening and www.bestofneworleans.com | August 30, 2005 | Gambit Weekly

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BEST OF NEW ORLEANS®

landscaping questions.

2. Charvet’s Garden Center (4511 Clearview Pkwy., Metairie, 888-7700; 123 Metairie Road, Metairie 835-7700; 9101 Jefferson Hwy., River Ridge, 737-7700) 3. The Plant Gallery (9401 Airline Hwy., 488-8887; www.theplantgallery.com)

Best Place to Buy Wine

1. Martin Wine Cellar (3827 Baronne St., 899-7411; 714 Elmeer St., Metairie, 896-7300; www.martinwine. com) — Whether you like to sample it, discuss it, debate it, give it as a gift or just drink it, you’ll understand why these stores get the nod from our wine-loving readers.

A huge inventory includes rare, limited-edition and hard-to-find vintages, and both locations host regular tastings, food-and-wine pairings. and other events.

2. Dorignac’s (710 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 834-8216) 3. Cork & Bottle Fine Wines (3700 Orleans Ave., 934-1386)

Best Liquor Store

1. Martin Wine Cellar (3827 Baronne St., 899-7411; 714 Elmeer St., Metairie, 896-7300; www.martinwine.com) — With all that wine, you’d think there wouldn’t be any room for other spirits — but you’d be wrong. Top-shelf liquors from around the world and a “beer portfolio” boasting fine microbrews and imports make up a large part of Martin Wine Cellar’s spirited offerings.

2. Dorignac’s (710 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 834-8216) 3. Prytania Liquor (1300 Arabella St., 891-0448)

Best Local Beer Brand

1. Abita (21084 Hwy. 36, Abita Springs, 985-892-1123; www.abita.com) — Abita’s Turbodog beer was recently voted the top microbrew in America by Stuff magazine.

Turbodog is one of five flagship brews that Abita distributes around the country, and those five beers — plus Abita’s constantly changing selection of specialty and seasonal brews — can soften the heart of even the most discriminating beer connoisseurs.

2. Dixie (2537 Tulane Ave., 822-8711) 3. Crescent City Brewhouse (527 Decatur St., 522-0571; www. crescentcitybrewhouse.com)

Best Candy Shop

1. Blue Frog Chocolates (5707 Magazine St., 269-5707; www. bluefrogchocolates.com) — This Uptown confectioner’s signature chocolates aren’t the only tantalizing treats hopping off the shelves.

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Blue Frog also imports fine chocolates and candies from around the world, and carries an assortment of gourmet hot chocolate, sugar-free chocolates, organic confections and party favors.

2. Southern Candymakers (1010 Decatur St., 525-6170; 334 Decatur St., 523-5544; www.southerncandymakers. com) 3. Godiva Chocolatier (Riverwalk Marketplace, 1 Poydras St., 522-1269; The Esplanade Mall, 1401 Esplanade Ave., Kenner, 464-6422; Lakeside Shopping Center, 3301 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 834-3278; www.godiva.com)

Best Neighborhood Grocery

1. Langenstein’s (1330 Arabella St., 899-9283; 800 Metairie Road, Metairie, 831-6682; www. langensteins.com) — Folks have been makin’ groceries at Langenstein’s since 1922.

Much has changed since then — the stores have expanded to include bakeries, catering services, florists and delis — but locals’ loyalty to these neighborhood supermarkets hasn’t waned one bit.

2. Dorignac’s (710 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 834-8216) 3. Lakeview Fine Foods (801 Harrison Ave., 482-7333; www.myfinefoods.com)

Best Neighborhood Grocery on the Northshore

1. Rouse’s Supermarket (1200 Hwy. 190, Covington, 985-8675232; www.rouses.com) — A new Rouse’s is scheduled to open in Mandeville this fall, so folks across the water will find it even more convenient to hit their favorite neighborhood grocery. Shoppers love the little extras here: the great wine selection, gourmet foods and artisan cheeses, fresh local seafood, and cooking demonstrations.

2. Acquistapace’s Covington Super Market (125 E. 21st Ave., Covington, 985-893-0593) 3. Pontchartrain Fresh Foods (4020 Pontchartrain Dr., Slidell, 985-646-1720)

Best Supermarket

1. Whole Foods Market (5600 Magazine St., 899-9119; 3400 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 888-8225; www. wholefoodsmarket.com) — Though Mid-City residents bade an unhappy goodbye to Whole Foods’ first New Orleans-area market last year, Metairie residents rejoiced when a gargantuan new location recently opened on Vets.

Both the Uptown and Metairie stores are loaded with organic, gourmet and specialty food items, plus great delis, cheese counters, wine selec-

tions, bakeries and more.

2. Sav-A-Center (Citywide; www.sav-a-centers.com) 3. Winn-Dixie (Citywide; www.winndixie.com)

Best Bakery

1. Maurice French Pastries (1114 S. Carrollton Ave., 866-7052; 3501 Hessmer Ave., Metairie, 885-1526; www. mauricefrenchpastries.com) — This sweet little taste of the French Alps (via owner Jean-Luc Albin) offers a big selection of delicacies such as profiterolles, strawberry Grand Marnier cakes, St. Honore puffcakes and Kugelhopf, a traditional Alsatian recipe.

2. Gambino’s (3240 S. Carrollton Ave., 485-0171; 5242 Elysian Fields Ave., 288-4262; 4821 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 885-7500; 300 Lapalco Blvd., Gretna, 3910600; www.gambinos.com) 3. La Boulangerie (4526 Magazine St., 269-3777; 3143 Ponce de Leon, 940-0577; 625 St. Charles Ave., 569-1925)

Best Place to Get a King Cake

1. Randazzo’s Goodchildren Bakery Shoppe (5001 E. Judge Perez Drive, Violet, 279-7472; 801 W. Judge Perez Drive, Chalmette, 271-7472; www. kingcakeexpress.com) — Folks in Da Parish aren’t the only ones who get their king cakes here — the Randazzo family ships them all over the world.

Specialty and holiday king cakes mean you don’t have to wait until Carnival to enjoy them, either.

2. Gambino’s Bakeries (3240 S. Carrollton Ave., 485-0171; 5242 Elysian Fields Ave., 2884262; 4821 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 885-7500; 300 Lapalco Blvd., Gretna, 3910600; www.gambinos.com) 3. Haydel’s Bakery (4037 Jefferson Hwy., 837-0190; www.haydelbakery.com)

Best Place to Get a Wedding Cake

1. Swiss Confectionary Inc. (747 St. Charles Ave., 522-7788) — This longtime family business has built a solid reputation on fresh baked goods that taste just as good as they look. Their wedding and grooms’-cake selection ranges from simple to extravagant, with the traditional bride-and-groom topper taking a backseat to more contemporary, creative and custom designs.

2. Gambino’s Bakeries (3240 S. Carrollton Ave., 485-0171; 5242 Elysian Fields Ave., 2884262; 4821 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 885-7500; 300 Lapalco Blvd., Gretna, 3910600; www.gambinos.com) 3. Maurice French Pastries (1114 S. Carrollton Ave.,

Best Band That Doesn’t Fit Any of These Categories: Bag of Donuts 866-7052; 3501 Hessmer Ave., Metairie, 885-1526; www.mauricefrenchpastries.com)

Best Grocery Store to Buy Fresh Produce

1. Whole Foods Market (5600 Magazine St., 899-9119; 3400 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 888-8225; www. wholefoodsmarket.com) — The bountiful produce department at Whole Foods includes vast quantities of organic fruits and veggies, many of which were grown via sustainable agricultural methods. Exotic and hardto-find produce from around the world is available on the shelves next to the best yields from American growers.

2. Sav-A-Center (Citywide; www.sav-a-centers.com) 3. Dorignac’s (710 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 834-8216)

Best Fruit and Vegetable Market/Stand

1. Crescent City Farmers Market (Citywide; www. crescentcityfarmersmarket.org) — An estimated 1,500 customers visit Crescent City Farmers’

Markets every week to stock up on what’s fresh and local from farmers, fishers, bakers and other quality food providers. Cooking demonstrations and other special events are regular features, and many a great relationship between an area restaurant and local farmers has started at these markets.

2. French Market (1008 N. Peters St., 523-4201) 3. Nashville and Claiborne fruit stand

Best Caterer 1. Martin Wine Cellar (3827 Baronne St., 896-7380; 714 Elmeer Ave., Metairie, 896-7350; www.martinwine. com) — Choose from their catering menu or come up with your own culinary ideas — the catering staff here will make them a reality. Martin’s supplies the food, beverages, equipment rental, servers, delivery and setup — and the wine and liquor, of course.

2. Joel’s Fine Catering (3930 Euphrosine St., 827-2400, www.joels.com) 3. Rommel’s Catering (3209 Taft Park, Metairie, 888-6229)

Best Place to Have a Kid’s Birthday Party

1. Chuck E. Cheese’s (3701 General DeGaulle Drive, 3671214; 7000 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 454-5959; www.chuckecheese.com) — Go ahead and turn the rugrats loose in this high-energy restaurant, game room and funhouse. The birthday packages here take most of the work out of throwing a kids’ party, providing food, drinks, a cake and game tokens — all parents have to do is show up and try to stay out of the crawly tubes.

2. Louisiana Children’s Museum (420 Julia St., 523-1357; www.lcm.org) 3. Audubon Zoo (6500 Magazine St., 581-4629; www.auduboninstitute.org)

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Eddie “Big Time” Thibodeaux, pictured in 1992 with his only friend, Mittens

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oday, Eddie “Big Time” Thibodeaux is a recluse. The one-time carpenter-turnedsinger from Arabi has left behind the spotlight he briefly flirted with in 1961 when he recorded “They All Asked for Big Chief (Pt. 3)” for the fledgling Pere Records. The song became a regional hit, though even Big Time’s staunchest supporters found the lyrics somewhat derivative. Pere’s poor distribution and the gambling problems of label owner Billy “Doc” Davidson kept the single from ever reaching the audience his smooth tenor deserved, and water damage incurred during Hurricane Camille destroyed whatever stock of the 45s Davidson had left. Now, the record is one of the most sought-after items among New Orleans collectors.

Thibodeaux made a brief comeback in 1984, singing at the Thailand Pavilion during the World’s Fair, but he quickly tired of answering questions about “They All Asked for Big Chief (Pt. 3)” and he returned to hiding. When asked by phone about the song’s infamous lyrics, he simply said, “I didn’t rip nobody off, and you can shut your mouth like all those other smartheads!”

You be the music critic. What follows are the complete lyrics to “They All Asked for Big Chief (Pt. 3).” If you think you recognize any of Thibodeaux’s sources, note the original songs and email the list to alexr@gambitweekly.com before Tuesday, Sept. 6. The first person to spot all of Thibodeaux’s “influences” will receive a Gambit Weekly T-shirt.

“THEY ALL ASKED FOR BIG CHIEF (PT. 3)” (Thibodeaux/Davidson)

There is a house in New Orleans From Bourbon Street to Esplanade So I drifted down to New Orleans Where I happened to be employed In a bar they call the Saturn On the bridge over Bayou St. John On a French Quarter sidewalk Cuz in that ’Nolia they play tha game raw.

Mama lives in Mandeville Water’s rising on the batture.

I went on down to the Audubon Zoo And the sky is red from off towards’ New Orleans.

Well c’mon take a stroll down on Basin Street; We have Fess playing on the jukebox.

I remember trashcans floatin’ down Canal Street, Dancing with the Queen down Bourbon Street They all axed for you New Orleans ladies The Mardi Gras memories of Creole tunes that fill the air Baby please don’t go down to New Orleans You know I love you so Baby, please don’t go I traded pants with a prophet on Magazine Street I got a new tiara Daddy, take me to the Mardi Gras Plant my feet on Rampart Street Gonna skip my ring ’cross the Mississippi River He met Marmalade down in Old New Orleans Arm-in-arm down Burgundy, a bottle and my friends and me Can’t afford the French Quarter high On LaSalle and Rampart Street

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They all axed for you New Orleans ladies The Mardi Gras memories of Creole tunes that fill the air Baby please don’t go down to New Orleans You know I love you so Baby, please don’t go The Hummer sound had em’ jumpin’ in the Superdome I was playing every Monday on Burgundy in some shitty little bar We’ll never make that bridge tonight across Lake Ponchartrain Down by the Carrollton bar I lived on a place they call South Front Street But New Orleans heat just got to me Dancing with the Queen down Bourbon Street And I’d hit everyone on Basin after that Stayin’ in the French Quarter and listen to Juvenile I’ll drink the Mississippi dry, laissez les bon temps rouler New Orleans queens sure know how to schmooz it Standing at the bus stop just across from Krauss They all axed for you New Orleans ladies The Mardi Gras memories of Creole tunes that fill the air Baby please don’t go down to New Orleans You know I love you so Baby, please don’t go GW

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ULTIMATE SHOPPER

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CLEAN Kitchen and bath

hardware cleanses the body and their designs soothe the soul.

MACHINES

By Kandace Power Graves

PHOTO COURTESY GROHE INC.

Timeless and sophisticated, the two-handle, center-set lavatory faucet set by Grohe was designed by F.A. Porche and has clean lines, lovely geometry and satiny metal, $788, from KELLER SUPPLY (2721 N. Causeway Blvd., Metairie, 834-8688; 13100 Chef Menteur Hwy., 254-1994).

PHOTO COURTESY HANSGROHE INC.

The German-designed Pharo Helis shower panel by Hansgrohe has a translucent surface (this one sea-foam colored) made from a resin that is easy to clean, acid-resistant and shatterproof. The 63-inch-tall unit has a fixed angleadjustable showerhead with 64 spray channels, halogen lighting beneath the showerhead, five adjustable body sprays for a full-body massage and a hand-shower with four spray modes.

The hand-shower has a patented selfcleaning feature. A thermostatic valve maintains a steady water temperature at all seven outlets and can be set to keep the temperature the same from shower to shower, $2,887, from LCR BATH & KITCHEN SHOWPLACE (8847 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 468-8150).

PHOTO COURTESY KOHLER

This single-control kitchen sink faucet with aerator, from Kohler’s Sterling line, plays up a traditional look with a one-piece ceramic valve that resists debris and water mineral buildup, while a temperature memory in the unit allows you to turn on the water at any temperature.

There’s also a leak- and drip-free warranty, about $550, available at HOME DEPOT and LOWE’S.

SHOPPING NEWS A Back To School sale at GARDEN GATE (2918 Metairie Road, Metairie, 833-6699; www.thegardengates.com) Friday, Saturday and Sunday will feature special prices of up to 50 percent off on a range of items from jewelry to plants. Early-bird customers receive special savings before 10 a.m.

The sale will be held at the Metairie Road location of The Garden Gate only.

Youngsters can help LOUBAT EQUIPMENT CO. (4141 Bienville St., 482-2554; www.loubat.com) celebrate 130 years in business — and earn a chance to win a $100 savings bond — by entering a coloring contest. Children 12 and younger are eligible to participate, and the winner not only will receive a savings bond but also will have his or her artwork featured on the cover of Loubat’s directmail catalog. To enter the contest, download the image to be colored from www.loubat.com (click on “Children’s Tabletop Coloring Contest”) and submit

BY K ANDACE POWER GR AVES

the completed artwork by Sept. 15. A winner will be announced a couple of weeks after the deadline.

For more information, contact Tammi deGeneres at 482-2554 or email tammi@loubat.com.

Importicos is now sharing its renovated space with a new accessories boutique, MISS SMARTY PANTS (5523 Magazine St., 891-6141). Owner Laura Hand says the first level of the shop, which has been spruced up with hot pink walls and leopard carpet, will house the new shop, which features fashion accessories such as handbags, earrings and bracelets as well as home items including martini glasses. Importicos is on the second level.

The store now is set up like a home, with displays in areas such as a powder room, bar area, boudoir and more.

Buy one Penguin polo shirt and get a second free at OCEAN EDDIE’S RESORT WEAR (831 Royal St., 523-7722).

After months of renovation, THE SAVVY GOURMET (4519 Magazine St., 895-2665; www.savvygourmet. com) has moved into its new space and is offering cooking and master chef classes taught by respected chefs in New Orleans as well as a retail store stocked with cookware, knives, gadgets and other culinary products, including enamel cast iron cookware from Staub, exclusive to The Savvy Gourmet.

In addition, you now can buy a share of the output of The Savvy Gourmet and LuLu’s organic farm in Mississippi and, beginning in October, receive about 8 to 16 pounds of produce every month. A membership free of $100 and a share price of $300 is due by Sept. 15; the number of memberships is limited. The membership fee also is good for discounts at The GW Savvy Gourmet and Lulu’s. GW

Information for Shopping News should be faxed to Kandace Graves at 483-3116 or emailed to kandaceg@gambitweekly.com at least 10 days prior to the publication date. www.bestofneworleans.com | August 30, 2005 | Gambit Weekly

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©2005 Anheuser-Busch, Inc., AnheuserÆ World Lager Beer, St. Louis, MO

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SHOP TALK

BY K ANDACE POWER GR AVES

Fresh From the Oven

The Margarita pizza is owner Keith Chifici’s favorite pie at his Brick Oven Cafe.

A

t first glance, Brick Oven Cafe (2805 Williams Blvd., Kenner, 466-2097) seems rather upscale with its white tablecloths, glass bricks, black tile and murals painted on the walls.

Owner Keith Chifici, however, says the ambience of the 14-year-old restaurant is very laidback and comfortable.

“We’re not a stuffy place,” says Chifici. “Although there are white tablecloths on the tables, we’re not fine dining; I don’t want to be. It’s casual.” Diners can sit in a booth, at a table or around the bar that wraps around the kitchen. There also are a few tables outside.

“One reason I bought the restaurant was the murals and mirrors and partitions,” he says. “To me it’s a great date place. It’s a little 100-seat restaurant, a small cafe.”

There’s plenty of room for big tastes, whether you want to dine on Brick Oven’s half-dozen veal dishes, pasta, homemade pizzas or any of the other Italian dishes that start with fresh ingredients and are made in-house.

“It’s a scratch house,” he says, meaning nothing comes pre-made or frozen. “All ingredients are fresh, and we cook the ingredients into dishes ourselves. We’re really known for our homemade pizzas, which we cook in a real brick oven.”

His personal favorite dishes are the Margarita pizza — a compilation of olive oil, mozzarella cheese, slices of fresh tomato and fresh basil — and the eggplant rigatoni pasta dish.

“They’re not complicated dishes,” he says. “Nothing here is really involved.

It’s all simple dishes done well. I like simplicity.”

There also is an ample list of nice wines by the glass, including vintages from Italy as well as California.

Fly Into Fashion

Former restaurateur Dionne Bloemer, of Restaurant August, will open a new women’s boutique in the Warehouse District in the next month or so, featuring a range of fashions to mix and match, from casual to elegant attire.

MSY (822 Tchoupitoulas St., 421-5892), which mimics New Orleans’ official airport code, should open in October.

“The concept is really classic glamour meets modern lifestyle,” says Bloemer.

“While this is one of the oldest parts of New Orleans, it’s also one of the most forward, and our clothes will represent GW that juxtaposition.” GW www.bestofneworleans.com | August 30, 2005 | Gambit Weekly

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A SHOW SO HOT IT’S GOT AN ICE BAR Good luck cooling down. With four shows a night, dance hotspots, a 42-ft video tower and gaming action all around, Masquerade’s the hottest thing in town.

Must be 21 or older to enter casino and to gamble. Know When To Stop Before You Start.® Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-522-4700. ©2005, Harrah’s License Company, LLC.

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WHAT TO

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BEFORE YOU GO

EVENTS

Southern Decadence Various times. Wednesday, Aug. 31Monday, Sept. 5 Various French Quarter locations; www. southerndecadence.com PHOTO COURTESY SOUTHERNDECADENCE.NET

MUSIC

MUSIC

MUSIC

Media Darlings showcase

Jandek

McCoy Tyner

6 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 1 The Ogden Museum of Southern Art, 925 Camp St., 539-9600; www. ogdenmuseum.org

7:30 Friday, Sept. 2 Tulane University, Dixon Hall, 6823 St. Charles Ave., 865-5000; www. tulane.edu

7 p.m. and 9 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 1 Contemporary Arts Center, 900 Camp St., 528-3805; www.cacno.org

PHOTO BY STEPH BORRELL

Last year’s The Humid Sounds of Media Darling Records (Media Darling) collected recordings by New Orleans underground hip-hop artists including Bionik Brown (left) and Know One (right), and many of the tracks are DJed and produced by DJ Quickie Mart (center). The three refer to themselves as the Lucky Stiffs, though they and others on the label are often referred to simply as the Media Darlings. Whatever the name, they have insinuated themselves into New Orleans’ musical culture, having toured recently with Galactic. Quickie Mart and Know One have also performed with Galactic’s Jeff Raines and Ben Ellman as part of the New Libation Orchestra. The Lucky Stiffs’ track, “Q&A” leads off Labelless Lifestyle 11 (Scion), a compilation of hip-hop artists on independent labels, and it balances Know One’s melodic sense and rhythmic, fast-paced rapping with Bionik Brown’s more typical, old-school braggadocio. Behind it all, DJ Quickie Mart mixes, cuts and samples to complement the MCs’ varied styles. Admission $10, free for Ogden members. — Nick Pope

Corwood Industries released Jandek’s Raining Down Diamonds earlier this year, the enigmatic artist’s 42nd album since 1978. Considered the most prolific outsider musician of all time, the reclusive Jandek has only performed live five times throughout his career. With the recent release of the documentary Jandek on Corwood comes a revival of the obsession with the Jandek mystery. Who is the blurry figure in photographs on each new release? What drives the emotion behind the sad and melancholy voice, half singing and half moaning over an acoustic guitar that seems perpetually out of tune? What makes this music so haunting and mesmerizing? One popular theory is that Jandek is a mental patient, and his recordings are merely artifacts of therapy sessions. Others suspect that Corwood Industries is Jandek himself, and the enigma is a carefully organized publicity stunt. Perhaps Jandek just likes to play, and his cult is more a product of those who want to like him than the result of his music. You decide. Tickets $20. — Sara Cohen

The dense, percussive romanticism of McCoy Tyner’s piano playing provided the perfect foil to John Coltrane’s visionary saxophone explorations in Coltrane’s A Love Supreme-era quartet with drummer Elvin Jones and bassist Jimmy Garrison, one of the greatest groups in jazz history. Tyner went on to inspire the first generation of fusion players through the sheer intensity of his playing — without ever using amplified instruments. He continues to tour constantly in a variety of contexts, from small combos to big bands and orchestras.

This performance presents the NEA Jazz Master in a trio with Charnett Moffett on bass and Eric Kamau Gravatt on drums, both of whom were part of his band at Jazz Fest this year for the Coltrane tribute.

Tyner’s expansive approach is well suited to this format, which isolates a sound that many have emulated but none have mastered. His 2004 release, Illuminations (Telarc), included “Blessings,” a contribution from New Orleans trumpeter Terence Blanchard, who performed on the album.

Tickets $25 general admission, $20 for CAC members. — John Swenson

By now, everyone knows that Southern Decadence, a celebration that “has gotten bigger and more wonderfully insane each year since its casual creation in 1972,” according to its Web site, is going to be out of control. Last year, more than 125,000 people came to New Orleans for the “celebration of gay life, music and culture,” and they brought an estimated $100 million in economic impact with them. The 34th annual, six-day festival’s theme for this year will be Jazz and Jezebels and will feature the famous, neverending parties, shows and contests. The Official Southern Decadence Kickoff show will be held at 11:30 p.m. Wednesday at Oz. Thursday features racy contests including a Wet Underwear Contest at Good Friends and a Wet Jockey Shorts Contest at the Corner Pocket — both held at 10 p.m.

At 8 p.m. Friday, the Golden Lantern will host the annual Drag Show featuring the Golden Age Revue and other celebrity appearances. At 10 p.m., the Phoenix will host the Leather Decadence 2005, the largest leather/Levi block party in the South.

From 9 p.m. to 2 a.m., the Divas of Decadence party will be thrown at TwiRoPa. The event will feature an open bar and entertainment by Kristine W., Nadia Ali, Jes Brieden, Jenna Drey, Rachel Panay and DJ Steve Travolta Cielo. There will also be a free shuttle from the French Quarter running every half hour. All of the proceeds for the party will benefit the New Orleans area AIDS/ HIV effort.

Sunday events include the Southern Decadence Parade at 2 p.m. at the Golden Lantern. Finally, on Labor Day, the Closing Party will be held at the Corner Pocket and will proceed to other Quarter-area bars. Now that’s a heckuva week. — Colin Schoenberger

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MUSIC

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OPENING ACT

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BY ALEX RAWLS

He’s So Heavy Organist Robert Walter records with New Orleans musicians he had admired from afar on his new CD, Super Heavy Organ.

“I’ve been a big fan of Johnny and James,” Robert Walter says.

The Johnny and James in question are drummer Johnny Vidacovich and bassist James Singleton, best known for their work in Astral Project.

Walter, a jazz-funk organist from San Diego, knew Vidacovich and Singleton from their work in the early 1980s with James Booker. “When I was a kid, I got that James Booker record, Classified (1982), and I had the (Professor Longhair) record Johnny was on (1978’s Byrd Lives), so I knew those guys from that stuff,” he says.

Walter is speaking by phone from Telluride, Colo., where he’s feeling a little lightheaded from the altitude. The leader of Robert Walter’s 20th Congress moved from San Diego to New Orleans last summer, and he’s suffering after driving from below sea level to the mountains of Colorado to start a tour in support of his new album, Super Heavy Organ (Magnatude). He recorded it last January with Galactic’s Stanton Moore, Tim Green, singer Anthony Farrell, Vidacovich and Singleton at the Truck Farm studio in Bywater.

It opens with “Adelita,” the sort of Meters-influenced jam that has become obligatory here, but Walter shifts through a number of flavors throughout the album, in some cases emphasizing the jazz, as is the case in the 7/4 “El Cuervo.” “(Smells Like) Dad’s Drunk Again,” merges the two as he and Green play a post-bop melody against a bass line that’s only funky in the way Singleton plays it behind the beat.

Singleton and Vidacovich also form the core of his touring band, which Walter enjoys for many reasons. “I like playing with James because it allows me to free up harmonically in a way that’s hard to do when you’re trying to think about the bass line,” he says, but on a personal level, “I could listen to those guys talk about all the people they’ve played with all day.” Most importantly, playing with

them is a lesson in how music is an extension of a good musician’s life. “I think the way you play comes a lot from who you are,” he says. “If you’re playing well, you’re breaking that line between your technique and your character. Your character comes out.”

Almost all of the tracks on Super Heavy Organ emerge from Walter’s time in New Orleans, and most specifically, the beat.

He developed the tracks playing duo and trio gigs around town with Vidacovich and Moore, who he knew from a side project, Frequinox. He chose to cover Led Zeppelin’s “Poor Tom” because of the song’s beat as well, which is as close to a New Orleans beat as Led Zep’s John Bonham ever managed. “I thought it would be interesting to hear Stanton play that,” Walter says. “He’s a big Bonham freak anyway.”

Super Heavy Organ and Walter’s time in New Orleans doesn’t mean the 20th Congress is dead. The group has been together for six or seven years, he says, so he’s taking a year off before doing something with them next year. More accurately, the album represents a continuation of Walter’s musical restlessness. He has been open throughout his career to playing with a revolving cast of musicians, whether in the 20th Congress, Frequinox, the Greyboy All-Stars or the Fantastic 4.

“I get a little bit bored doing the same thing,” he says. “I always want to play something I’m a little bit uncomfortable with so that I’m growing with every project. It’s great to have all that history and chemistry, but occasionally you need one other element, one guy who’s a little unfamiliar to you so that when you hear something, you go, ‘Whoa, what was that?’”

Free-rock drummer Chris Corsano has played with Thurston Moore and Jim O’Rourke (of Sonic Youth), Nels Cline (of Wilco) and many others. On Thursday, Sept. 1, at the Dragon’s Den, he’ll improvise with Donald Miller of Borbetomagus (now a regular on the New Orleans improv music scene) and Rob Cambre, both on guitars.

Fans of Papa Grows Funk will have their only chance to see the band in New Orleans on a weekend Friday, Sept.

2, at the Maple Leaf. PGF returns from a Japanese tour immediately before the

gig, then it heads back out after Labor Day for an American tour.

ROBERT WALTER 10 P.M. THURSDAY, SEPT. 1 TIPITINA’S, 501 NAPOLEON AVE., 895-TIPS; WWW.TIPITINAS.COM

CLARIFICATION: I was wrong. In my review of Garage a Trois’ Outre Mer (“Opening Act,” Aug. 9), I speculated that the album might be a soundtrack to a fictional movie. According to Stanton Moore, the movie really does exist and red tape really has kept the film by French filmmaker Klaus Tontine from GW being released. GW For reviews of CDs by the Partridge Family, the Kronos Quartet, Chicago and more, see Opening Act 2 online. www.bestofneworleans.com | August 30, 2005 | Gambit Weekly

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MUSIC

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LISTINGS STICK THIS IN YOUR

Not all showtimes were available by press time; call club for details.

All times are p.m. unless otherwise noted.

Tuesday, August 30 APPLE BARREL — Wendy Darling, 8; Mike Hood, 10:30 ARNAUD’S JAZZ BISTRO — Joe Simon, 6:30 BANKS STREET BAR — Walter “Wolfman” Washington, 11 BLUE NILE — (Alley Katz) Kermit Ruffins cocktail hour w/ DJ Smoke A Lot, 6 BOSSA NOVA — Lenny McDaniel, 10 CAJUN CABIN — Jonno, 7 CARROLLTON STATION — Acoustic open-mic night hosted by Ron Hotstream, 9:30 CHECK POINT CHARLIE — Acoustic open mic w/ Jim Smith, 10:30 CIRCLE BAR — Pride’s Crossing Bluegrass Band, 10:30 CREOLE QUEEN PADDLEWHEEL BOAT — the New Orleans Spice, 7 CRESCENT CITY BREWHOUSE — New Orleans Streetbeat, 6 D.B.A. — the Geraniums, 10 DOS JEFES — Tom Hook, 9 FRITZEL’S — Jacques Gauthe & the Fritzel’s Jazz Band, 8 FUNKY PIRATE — Jeff Chaz, 5; Big Al Carson & the Blues Masters, 9 GAZEBO CAFE — One Time Jazz Band feat. Big Fine Ellen Smith, 11 a.m.

GOONDOCKS — Baby Calendar, the Sunflowers, Trey’s Room, 7 GYPSY’S CAFE — Tango Tuesdays, 7:30 HARRAH’S CASINO — (Earl Turner Theatre) Earl Turner, 8 HOOKAH CAFE — Nina Simone Tribute w/ Jhelisa, 9 HOUSE OF BLUES — House of Blues Staff Talent Show, 8 HOUSE OF SEAFOOD — Charmaine Neville, 7; Lisa Lynn Quartet, 7 KERRY IRISH PUB — Early Morning String Band, 9 KRAZY KORNER — Voodoo, 3; Feedback, 8 MAPLE LEAF — Rebirth Brass Band, 10 MARKET CAFE — Jazz Cats, 10:30 a.m.; French Market Band, 4 MO’S CHALET — the Nite Owl, 7 MULATE’S — Lee Benoit, 7 OLD OPERA HOUSE — Plan B, 3; Bayou Boys, 8 RITZ-CARLTON — (the Lobby Lounge) George Butts, 6&9 SNUG HARBOR — Maurice Brown Quintet, 9 & 11 SPOTTED CAT — Joe Caruso, 6:30; St. Louis Slim, 10 STORYVILLE — Pfister Sisters, 5 TROPICAL ISLE BOURBON — Jeff Phillips, 1; Party Time Band, 9 TROPICAL ISLE ORIGINAL — Dwight Breland, 9 TROPICAL ISLE’S BEACH CLUB MUSIC BAR — Waylon Thibodeaux, 5; Gary Brown, 9 TURTLE BAY — Washboard Chaz Blues Trio, 7 WINDSOR COURT HOTEL — (Le Salon) Rachel Van Voorhees, 2:30; (Polo Lounge) Kirk Branch, 6:30

Wednesday, August 31 ARNAUD’S JAZZ BISTRO — Joe Simon, 6:30 BANKS STREET BAR — Juice, 11

W

EAR

BLUE NILE — (Alley Katz) Earl Can Bird, 9 BOSSA NOVA — Johnny Vidacovich Trio, 10 BUDDHA BELLY — Open-mic night w/ Mario Ortiz, 9 CAJUN CABIN — Mitch Cormier & the Can’t Hardly Playboys, 7 CARROLLTON STATION — Engineers Without Borders Benefit feat. Susan Cowsill, Pete Winkler & Mike Blum, Craig Caliva Band, Dana Abbott & others, 9 CHECK POINT CHARLIE — Domenic, 9 CIRCLE BAR — Big Chief Monk Boudreaux & Reverend Goat Carson, 10:30 CREOLE QUEEN PADDLEWHEEL BOAT — the New Orleans Spice, 7 CRESCENT CITY BREWHOUSE — New Orleans Streetbeat, 6 D.B.A. — Happy Talk Band, 10 DECKBAR & GRILLE — Oscar & the Blues Cats host Big Daddy’s Juke Joint Jam, 8 DOMINIC’S — Nishma, 9 DOS JEFES — Danielle Spadavecchia, 9:30 DRAGON’S DEN — A Particularly Vicious Rumor, 10:30 FIVE O’CLOCK GRILLE — Recycled Cajuns, 8 FRITZEL’S — Ryan Burrage Quartet, 8:30 FUNKY PIRATE — Willie Locket & the All-Purpose Blues Band, 5; Big Al Carson & the Blues Masters, 9 GAZEBO CAFE — One Time Jazz Band feat. Big Fine Ellen Smith, 11 a.m.

GYPSY’S CAFE — Flamenco Wednesdays w/ John Lawrence, 7:30 HANGAR — Hot 8 Brass Band, 10:30 HOOKAH CAFE — Martin Urbach Group, 10 HOTEL MONTELEONE — (Carousel Bar) John Autin, 9 HOUSE OF SEAFOOD — Eddie Zip, 7 HOWLIN’ WOLF — Penguin, Dirty Dingus, 10 KRAZY KORNER — Voodoo, 3; Feedback, 8 LE BON TEMPS ROULE — the Soul Rebels, 10:30 LOUNGE LIZARDS — Lynn Drury & Chris Boone, 10 MAPLE LEAF — Elastic Karma Kings, 10 MARKET CAFE — Jazz Cats, 10:30 a.m. ; French Market Band, 4 MID CITY LANES ROCK ’N’ BOWL — Swing Night w/ Joe Krown Swing Band, 8:30 MO’S CHALET — Eddie Powers Band, 8 MULATE’S — Lee Benoit, 7 OLD OPERA HOUSE — Plan B, 3; LA Band, 8 OLD POINT BAR — Westbank Mike & the Fischer Project, 10 RITZ-CARLTON — (the Lobby Lounge) George Butts, 6&9 ROSIE’S TAVERN — the Oliviers, 8 SNUG HARBOR — Clarence Johnson III Trio, 9 & 11 SOUTHPORT HALL — Pig Pen & the Pork Chops, 8 SPOTTED CAT — the Pfister Sisters, 6:30; Hot Club of New Orleans, 10 STATE PALACE THEATRE — LTJ Bukem & MC Conrad, 10 STEAK PIT — Dick & Randy Show, 8 STORYVILLE — the Palmetto Bug Stompers, 5 TIPITINA’S — Django Walker, 9 TROPICAL ISLE BOURBON — Jeff Phillips, 1; Dwayne Dopsie & the Zydeco Hellraisers, 5; Huey P’s, 9 TROPICAL ISLE ORIGINAL — Dwight Breland, 9 TROPICAL ISLE’S BEACH CLUB MUSIC BAR — Waylon

R E C O M M E N D E D

Thibodeaux, 5; Gary Brown, 9 WINDSOR COURT HOTEL — (Le Salon) Rachel Van Voorhees, 2:30; (Polo Lounge) Michael Pellera, 6:30

Thursday, September 1

Bobby Lounge What does it change if you know Bob Dylan’s real name? That’s the question Bobby Lounge’s manager, John Preble, asks now that a writer from McComb, Miss.’s Enterprise-Journal has revealed that Lounge’s real name is Dub Brock. At this year’s Jazz Fest, Lounge’s set in the Blues Tent was one of the most talked-about, as “Take Me Back to Abita Springs” set a road story of epic proportions to Jerry Lee Lewis’s barrelhouse piano. Was Lounge for real? Where did he come from? When he sang, “The emotional trust fund I gave to you / shows principal lacking baby, a balance is due,” was he serious? If so, where did that come from? Knowing that Lounge is actually Brock, a reclusive artist from McComb who has been writing songs for more than 20 years, doesn’t really answer those questions, and it doesn’t change how remarkable his songs are.

On his debut album, I Remember the Night Your Trailer Burnt Down (Abitian), the eccentric lyrics almost take a back seat to his piano playing, which pulls together elements from blues, jazz and classical vocabularies and combines them into a passionate, straightforward-seeming romp.

Tickets $10. — Alex Rawls

9 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 3 House of Blues, 225 Decatur St., 529-BLUE; www.hob.com

ANDREA’S — Eric Bethancourt, 5 ARNAUD’S JAZZ BISTRO — Joe Simon, 6:30 BADA BING’S — Jay Steven’s Rock Show, 9 BANKS STREET BAR — Fur Charger, 11 BIRDIES ROADHOUSE — the Petty Bones open-mic night, 7 BLUE NILE — Henry Butler, 9:30 BOOMTOWN CASINO — the Topcats, 9 CIRCLE BAR — Gal Holiday & the Honky Tonk Revue, 10:30 COBALT — Linnzi Zaorski, 6 CREOLE QUEEN PADDLEWHEEL BOAT — the New Orleans Spice, 7 CRESCENT CITY BREWHOUSE — New Orleans Streetbeat, 6 DOMINIC’S — OTEL, 9 DONNA’S BAR & GRILL — Evan Christopher Quartet, 9:30 DOS JEFES — Los Tres Amigos, 9:30; Los Tres Amigos, 9:30 FIVE O’CLOCK GRILLE — Recycled Cajuns, 8 FRITZEL’S — St. Louis Slim, 6; Ryan Burrage & his Rhythmakers, 9:30 FUNKY PIRATE — Willie Locket & the All-Purpose Blues Band, 5; Big Al Carson & the Blues Masters, 9 GAZEBO CAFE — One Time Jazz Band feat. Big Fine Ellen Smith, 11 a.m.

GYPSY’S CAFE— Debbie Davis w/ Tom Hook, 7 HARRAH’S CASINO — (Earl Turner Theatre) Earl Turner, 8 HOTEL MONTELEONE — (Carousel Bar) John Autin, 9 HOWLIN’ WOLF — Ruby Rendrag, Beatin Path, 10 KRAZY KORNER — Bayou Boys, 1; Feedback, 8 LE BON TEMPS ROULE — Settly & the Disappointments, 10:30 LOUNGE LIZARDS — Hotrod Hillbillies, Life Without Elvis, Rhoades D’Ablo, 10 MAPLE LEAF — the Trio w/ Johnny Vidacovich, George Porter Jr. & guest, 10 MARGARITAVILLE — Jesse Moore, 3; Mr. Manny & Johnny J, 6; Burke Ingraffia, 9 MARKET CAFE — Jazz Cats, 10:30 a.m.; French Market Band, 4 MID CITY LANES ROCK ’N’ BOWL — Zydeco Night w/ Keith Frank, 9:30 MO’S CHALET — Big Rubba Bubba, 8 MULATE’S — La Touche, 7 O’FLAHERTY’S IRISH PUB — (The Informer) the Maloneys, 6:30; (Ballad Room) Danny O’Flaherty, 8 OGDEN MUSEUM OF SOUTHERN ART — Media Darling Records Showcase, 6 OLD OPERA HOUSE — David St. Romaine, 1; LA Band, 8 OLD POINT BAR — Westbank Mike & the Fischer Project, 9 RAY’S OVER THE RIVER — Kevin O’Day All-Star Band feat. Walter “Wolfman” Washington, James Andrews & guest, 9 RITZ-CARLTON — (FQB Restaurant) Thaddeus Richard, 7; Jeremy Davenport, 9; (The Lobby Lounge) George Butts, 7 SNOOKS BAR — New Birth Brass Band, 10 SPOTTED CAT — Gypsy Blues, 6:30; Jerry Jumonville

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[MUSIC] LISTINGS & the Jump City Band, 10 STEAK PIT — Dick & Randy Show, 8 STORYVILLE — Bradford Truby Trio, 5; Marva Wright & the BMW’s, 8:15 TIPITINA’S — Robert Walter’s Super Heavy Organ, Sol Fiya, 10 TROPICAL ISLE BOURBON — Jeff Phillips, 1; Dwayne Dopsie & the Zydeco Hellraisers, 5; Debi & the Deacons, 9 TROPICAL ISLE ORIGINAL — Late As Usual, 10 TROPICAL ISLE’S BEACH CLUB MUSIC BAR — Waylon Thibodeaux, 5; Gary Brown, 9 TWIROPA — (Tchops Room) Bonerama, 9:30

Friday, September 2 ANDREA’S — Eric Bethancourt, 5; Jeannie D’Avray, 8 ARNAUD’S JAZZ BISTRO — Joe Simon, 6:30 BANKS STREET BAR — Andi Hoffman & the B-Goes, 11 BLUE NILE — Micaela y Fiesta Flamenca, 7:30; Fredy Omar con su Banda, 10:30; (Alley Katz) Kelcy Mae, 10 BOMBAY CLUB — Heather & the Monkey Kings, 9:30 BOOMTOWN CASINO — “the Urban Cowboy” Johnny Lee, 9:30 BOSSA NOVA — the Bad Apples Blues Band, 10 BOURRE’S BAR-BQ & SPIRITS — Curtis Guillot w/ Rock ’n’ Roll Oldies, 8 CARROLLTON STATION— Juniper Row, 10 CHAMELEON’S DAY SPA CAFE & COFFEE — Wisdom w/ Jeremi Crump, 9 CIRCLE BAR — We’re Only In It for the Honey, 10:30 CLUB LOTUS — Elaté, 9 COBALT — David Torkanowsky & George Porter Jr., 7 COZY CORNER — Karaoke w/ Six Pack Entertainment, 9 CREOLE QUEEN PADDLEWHEEL BOAT — the New Orleans Spice, 7 CRESCENT CITY BREWHOUSE — New Orleans Streetbeat, 6 DAIQUIRI DEPOT — Renegades, 9 DECKBAR & GRILLE — Jack Cole w/ Janet Lynn, 10 DOMINIC’S — Exit 14B feat. Amanda Soprano, 9 DONNA’S BAR & GRILL — Treme Brass Band, 10:30 DOS JEFES — Carl LeBlanc, 10 FAIRMONT HOTEL — (Fairmont Court Bar) Bob French & the Original Tuxedo Jazz Band, 9 FIVE O’CLOCK GRILLE — Recycled Cajuns, 8 FRITZEL’S — St. Louis Slim, 6; Ryan Burrage & his Rhythmakers, 9:30 FUNKY PIRATE — Willie Locket & the All-Purpose Blues Band, 5; Big Al Carson & the Blues Masters, 9 GAZEBO CAFE — One Time Jazz Band feat. Big Fine Ellen Smith, 11 a.m.

HARRAH’S CASINO — (Earl Turner Theatre) Earl Turner, 8 HOTEL MONTELEONE — (Carousel Bar) John Autin, 9 HOUSE OF SEAFOOD — Lisa Lynn Quartet, 7 HOWLIN’ WOLF — Merry-Go-Drown, Overtone, Interstate Pond, Groundfault, 10 KRAZY KORNER — Bayou Boys, 1; Adrenalin Rush, 8 LAMPLIGHTER LOUNGE — Billy Chapman, 10 LE BON TEMPS ROULE — Joe Krown, 7; Grayson Capps & the Stumpknockers, 10:30 LOFT 523 — Kermit Ruffins, 6 LOUNGE LIZARDS — Mountain Sprout, 6; Jack Spratt, Eureka, DJ Maxmillion, 10 MANDALAY JAZZ CAFE — John Rankin & David Sebring, 8 MARGARITAVILLE — Jesse Moore, 3; Irving Bannister’s All-Stars, 6; Joe Bennett, 9 MARIGNY BRASSERIE — Kim Prevost & Bill Solley, 9:30 MARKET CAFE — Jazz Cats, 10:30 a.m.; French Market Band, 4 MARLENE’S PLACE — Bo-Hog Den, Red Metric, Stur, 9 MID CITY LANES ROCK ’N’ BOWL — the Topcats, 10 MO’S CHALET — Al Normand & Earl Stanley, 1 a.m.

MULATE’S — Jay Cormier, 7 NAWLINS BAR & GRILL — AZ IF, 10 O’FLAHERTY’S IRISH PUB — (Ballad Room) Danny O’Flaherty, 8; (the Informer) the Maloneys, 8:30 OLD OPERA HOUSE — David St. Romaine, 1; Feedback, 8 OLD POINT BAR — Rickie Castrillo & Dreamland, 10 ONE EYED JACKS — the Public, 10 PARKWAY BAKERY & TAVERN — Midnight Streetcar, 7 RITZ-CARLTON — (FQB Restaurant) Thaddeus Richard, 7; Jeremy Davenport, 9; (The Lobby Lounge) George Butts, 7 SNOOKS BAR — Mary Griffin, 10 www.bestofneworleans.com | August 30, 2005 | Gambit Weekly

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[MUSIC] LISTINGS SOUTHPORT HALL — Backstage Pass, 7; Bag of Donuts, Throwing Silk, 10 SPOTTED CAT — Jeremy Lyons & the Deltabilly Duo, 6:30; New Orleans Jazz Vipers, 10 STATE PALACE THEATRE — National Eye, Silent Cinema, Bipolaroid, 9 STEAK PIT — Dick & Randy Show, 8; Danny T, midnight STORYVILLE — Kurt Brunus Project, 5; Rooster & the Chicken Hawks, 9 TIPITINA’S — the Radiators, 10:30 TROPICAL ISLE BOURBON — Dwayne Dopsie & the Zydeco Hellraisers, 5; Debi & the Deacons, 9 TROPICAL ISLE ORIGINAL — Al Miller, 1; Rusty McHugh Band, 5; Late As Usual, 10 TROPICAL ISLE’S BEACH CLUB MUSIC BAR — Party Time Band, 1; Sammy’s Cajun Connection, 6; Gary Brown, 10 TULANE UNIVERSITY — (Dixon Hall) Jandek, MV/EE Medicine Show, Christina Carter, 7 TWIROPA — (Tchops Room) Divas of Decadence Benefit feat. Kristine W., Nadia Ali, Jes Brieden, Jenna Drey & Rachel Panay, 9 (Live Room) Big Easy Roller Girls Benefit feat. Suplecs, Die Rotzz, Uptown O’Fays & Tuff Luvs, 9:30

Saturday, September 3 ABITA BREW PUB RESTAURANT — Acoustic night w/ Keith Cole, 8:30 ARNAUD’S JAZZ BISTRO — Joe Simon, 6:30 BANKS STREET BAR — Jumpin’ Johnny Sansone, 11 BIRDIES ROADHOUSE — Damn Hippies, 8 BLUE NILE — Rebecca Barry & guests, 7:30; Vivaz, 10:30 BOMBAY CLUB — Troi Bechet Trio, 9:30 BOOMTOWN CASINO — “the Urban Cowboy” Johnny Lee, 7:30 & 9:30 BOSSA NOVA — the Bad Apples Blues Band, 10 CAFE BRASIL — the Zydepunks, Saaraba, 10 CARROLLTON STATION — Susan Cowsill Band covers Joni Mitchell’s COURT AND SPARK, 10 CHEZ VODUN — Solid Harmony feat. Topsy Chapman & her daughters, 9 CIRCLE BAR — Clint Maedgen, 10:30 COBALT — Heather & the Monkey King, 7 CREOLE QUEEN PADDLEWHEEL BOAT — the New Orleans Spice, 7 CRESCENT CITY BREWHOUSE — New Orleans Streetbeat, 6 DOCK — the Distractions, 10 DONNA’S BAR & GRILL — Leroy Jones Quintet, 10:30 DOS JEFES — Rick Trolsen & Gringo do Choro, 10 FAIRMONT HOTEL — (Fairmont Court Bar) Bob French & the Original Tuxedo Jazz Band, 9 FIVE O’CLOCK GRILLE — Recycled Cajuns, 8 FRITZEL’S — St. Louis Slim, 6; Ryan Burrage & his Rhythmakers, 9:30 FUNKY PIRATE — Willie Locket & the All-Purpose Blues Band, 5; Big Al Carson & the Blues Masters, 9 GAZEBO CAFE — One Time Jazz Band feat. Big Fine Ellen Smith, 11 a.m.

HARRAH’S CASINO — (Earl Turner Theatre) Earl Turner, 8 HOTEL MONTELEONE — (Carousel Bar) John Autin, 9 HOUSE OF BLUES — Bobby Lounge, C.C. Adcock, 9; (The Parish) 15 Minutes— An Independent Songwriters Series, 9 HOUSE OF SEAFOOD — Red Morgan, 7 HOWLIN’ WOLF — Royal Family, Dave Scandora, David Bode & friends, 10 IGGY’S BAR — Nishmah, 8:30; open-mic Blues jam, 10 KRAZY KORNER — Bayou Boys, 1; Adrenalin Rush, 8 LE BON TEMPS ROULE — Schatzy, 10:30 LOUNGE LIZARDS — Slim Nelson Trio, 6; the Sophisticats & the Sophistikittens, 10 MANDALAY JAZZ CAFE — Doug Bradford & David Schwab, 8 MARGARITAVILLE — Jesse Moore, 3; Irving Bannister’s All-Stars, 6; Joe Bennett, 9 MARIGNY BRASSERIE — Kim Prevost & Bill Solley, 9:30 MARKET CAFE — Jazz Cats, 10:30 a.m.; French Market Band, 4 MARLENE’S PLACE — Peckernut, the Guise, Minerva Veil, 9 MID CITY LANES ROCK ’N’ BOWL — Snooks Eaglin, George Porter Jr., Russell Batiste, 10 MO’S CHALET — Jake & the Nifty Fifties, 9 MULATE’S — Jay Cormier, 7 O’FLAHERTY’S IRISH PUB — (Ballad Room) Danny O’Flaherty, 8; (the Informer) the Maloneys, 8:30 OLD OPERA HOUSE — Feedback, 8 OLD POINT BAR — Lenny McDaniel Band, 10 ONE EYED JACKS — Big Blue Marble, R. Scully, 10

W PARKWAY BAKERY & TAVERN — La Famille Sauvage, 7 RITZ-CARLTON — (FQB Restaurant) Thaddeus Richard, 7; Jeremy Davenport, 9; (The Lobby Lounge) George Butts, 7 ROSIE’S TAVERN — Third Banana Band, 9 SNOOKS BAR — Blues Jam w/ Leo Malone & Westbank Mike, 11 SOUTHPORT HALL — Tattooed Santa, 9; Zoso — Led Zeppelin cover band, 10 SPOTTED CAT — Washboard Chaz Blues Trio, 6:30; St. Louis Slim, 10 STEAK PIT — Dick & Randy Show, 8; Danny T, midnight STORYVILLE — New Orleans Jazz Vipers, 5; Rooster & the Chicken Hawks, 9 TROPICAL ISLE BOURBON — Dwayne Dopsie & the Zydeco Hellraisers, 5; Debi & the Deacons, 9 TROPICAL ISLE ORIGINAL — Al Miller, 1; Rusty McHugh Band, 5; Late As Usual, 10 TROPICAL ISLE’S BEACH CLUB MUSIC BAR — Waylon Thibodeaux, 2; Party Time Band, 6; Jimmy T, 10

Sunday, September 4 ARNAUD’S JAZZ BISTRO — Joe Simon, 6:30 BLUE NILE — Ingrid Lucia, 9; (Alley Katz) Chappy, 8 BOOMTOWN CASINO — “the Urban Cowboy” Johnny Lee, 4 & 6 CAFE NEGRIL — Rico Suave, 7 CANAL BUS STOP BAR & GRILL — Red Morgan & the Bobby Love Band w/ Blues Boy George, 7 CHEZ VODUN — Eluard & Co., 6 CIRCLE BAR — A Fir Ju Well, 10:30 CREOLE QUEEN PADDLEWHEEL BOAT — the New Orleans Spice, 7 CRESCENT CITY BREWHOUSE — New Orleans Streetbeat, 6 DOCK — 5 Finger Discount, 8; the Chee-Weez, 10 DOS JEFES — Joe Krown, 9; Chris Cortez, 9 FRITZEL’S — Ryan Burrage & his Rhythmakers, 9:30 FUNKY PIRATE — Jeff Chaz, 3; Willie Locket & the AllPurpose Blues Band, 8 GAZEBO CAFE — One Time Jazz Band feat. Big Fine Ellen Smith, 11 a.m.

HOUSE OF SEAFOOD — Gypsy Blue, 7 KRAZY KORNER — Bayou Boys, 1; Adrenalin Rush, 8 LOUNGE LIZARDS — Hardly Ever Brothers, 9:30 MARGARITAVILLE — Irving Bannister’s All-Stars, 6; Joe Bennett, 9 MARIGNY BRASSERIE — Pfister Sisters, 1 MARKET CAFE — Jazz Cats, 10:30 a.m.; French Market Band, 4 MULATE’S — Jay Cormier, 7 O’FLAHERTY’S IRISH PUB — (The Informer) the Maloneys, 6:30 OLD OPERA HOUSE — David St. Romaine, 1 OLD POINT BAR — Jack Fine & the Algiers Stompers, 5; Vic Shepherd Band, 8 ONE EYED JACKS — Southern Decadence Blow Out, 10 PARKWAY BAKERY & TAVERN — Billy Chapman, 1; Linnzi Zaorski, 4 RITZ-CARLTON — (FQB Restaurant) Thaddeus Richard, 7; Jeremy Davenport, 9; (The Lobby Lounge) George Butts, 7 SPOTTED CAT — Rites of Swing, 4; Jerry Jumonville & the Jump City Band, 6:30 STEAK PIT — Danny T, 6 STORYVILLE — Bradford Truby Trio, 5 TIPITINA’S — Cajun fais do do w/ Bruce Daigrepont, 5 TROPICAL ISLE BOURBON — Dwayne Dopsie & the Zydeco Hellraisers, 5; Debi & the Deacons, 9 TROPICAL ISLE ORIGINAL — Al Miller, 9 TROPICAL ISLE’S BEACH CLUB MUSIC BAR — Waylon Thibodeaux, 5; Jimmy T, 9 TWIROPA — (Tchops Room) Peelander-Z, A Million Tiny Jesuses, Last Battle on Earth, 9:30 WISDOM — Treme Brass Band, 6; Kermit Ruffins & the BBQ Swingers w/ special guests, 8

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Monday, September 5 ARNAUD’S JAZZ BISTRO — Joe Simon, 6:30 BANKS STREET BAR — Open mic w/ Chris Polacek Band, 9 BLUE NILE — (Alley Katz) Gravity A, 10 CREOLE QUEEN PADDLEWHEEL BOAT — the New Orleans Spice, 7 CRESCENT CITY BREWHOUSE — New Orleans Streetbeat, 6 DONNA’S BAR & GRILL — Bob French & friends, 9:30 FRITZEL’S — Fritzel’s Swing Trio feat. Banu Gibson, 8 FUNKY PIRATE — Jeff Chaz, 5; Big Al Carson & the

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Gambit Weekly | August 30, 2005 | www.bestofneworleans.com

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[MUSIC] LISTINGS Blues Masters, 9 GAZEBO CAFE — One Time Jazz Band feat. Big Fine Ellen Smith, 11 a.m.

HANGAR — Underground Hip Hop Night, 10:30 HARRAH’S CASINO — (Earl Turner Theatre) Earl Turner, 8 HOUSE OF SEAFOOD — Corey Henry, 7 KING BOLDEN’S — R. Scully, 10 KRAZY KORNER — Voodoo, 3; Luv Sexy, 8 LOUNGE LIZARDS — Grayson Capps & the Stumpknockers, 10 MARGARITAVILLE — Mr. Manny & Johnny J, 6; Joe Bennett, 9 MARKET CAFE — Jazz Cats, 10:30 a.m.; French Market Band, 4 MARLENE’S PLACE — Burke Hilburn, 8 MULATE’S — La Touche, 7 O’FLAHERTY’S IRISH PUB — (The Informer) Beth Patterson, 8 OLD OPERA HOUSE — Plan B, 3; Bayou Boys, 8 OLD POINT BAR — Marc Stone Band, 9 RITZ-CARLTON — (the Lobby Lounge) George Butts, 6&9 SPOTTED CAT — St. Louis Slim, 6:30; New Orleans Jazz Vipers, 10 STORYVILLE — Lisa Lynn, 5; Tim Laughlin, 7:30 TROPICAL ISLE BOURBON — Party Time Band, 9 TROPICAL ISLE ORIGINAL — Dwight Breland, 9 TROPICAL ISLE’S BEACH CLUB MUSIC BAR — Waylon Thibodeaux, 5; Jimmy T, 9

djs/nightlife 735 NIGHTCLUB AND BAR — 735 Bourbon St., 5816740 — Wed: “Metropolis,” electroclash and newer wave; Thu: Shim Sham presents “1984”; Fri: “Dress to Impress” hip-hop; Sat: DJ Brian Watson and DJ EjWhite, house and popular remixes; Sun: Pussy Katz illusion show AMPERSAND — 1100 Tulane Ave., 587-3737 — Thu: Awesome! featuring DJs Brice Nice and Facial Hair, 9; Fri: 3 Parts Hip-Hop to 1 Part Techno, 10; Sat: Top DJs from around the globe take the guest spotlight bimonthly; Blake Jarrell, 10; Ellis G., 1 a.m.; Sky-Hi+Trashy, 4 a.m.

ARGENTINE TANGO CLUB OF GREATER NEW ORLEANS — 3218 Magazine St., 887-3095 — Fri: Argentine tango lessons in four-lesson cycle. 7 p.m. intermediate and advanced, 8 p.m. beginners.

BLUE DOOR LOUNGE — 940 Elysian Fields Ave. (side door at Matrixxx Bar) — Sat: Deep Soulful House featuring residents Javier Drada, Saadir Williams, Dave Garcia and Walter Jones CAFE PYRAMID & COURTYARD — 1113 Decatur St., 569-0041 — Sun: “DiscOasis” with DJs Wizdum and B. Jandres plus special guests, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

DELTA BLUES GRILL — 524 S. Jefferson Davis Pkwy., 822-0358 — Sat: DJ Smitty, 9 THE DUNGEON BAR — 738 Toulouse St., 523-5530 — Popular dance music nightly GENERATIONS HALL (THE METROPOLITAN) — 310 Andrew Higgins Drive, 581-4367 — Fri: Boogie Nights w/ Stan Wiltz, Ken Adams and Jeff B, 10 GRACE EPISCOPAL CHURCH — 3700 Canal St., 4839011 — Thu: Crescent City International Dancers — Greek, French, English, Israeli, German, Italian, Croatian, Serbian, Bosnian, Macedonian, Turkish, Hungarian, Bulgarian, Romanian, Arabic, Swedish, Polish and more, 7:30 THE GROOVE LOUNGE — 2604 Magazine St., 8464464 — Fri-Sun: DJ Matic and DJ Real mix hip-hop HANDSOME WILLY’S — 218 South Robertson St., 525-0377— Thu: DJ Quickie Mart, 10; THE HANGAR — 1511 S. Rendon St., 822-9858 — Fri: Ladies Night w/ DJ Shorty, 9 HARRAH’S CASINO (MASQUERADE) — 4 Canal St., 533-6000; www.harrahs.com — Entertainment venue featuring multiple shows, multimedia entertainment and “ultra lounge” reservation areas.

Club open 24 hours. Shows 7 p.m. nightly.

HI-HO LOUNGE — 2239 St. Claude Ave., 947-9344 — Fri: Bassbin Safari; Sun: Pablo-Z & Tom Harvey & guests HOOKAH CAFE — 1407 Decatur St., 943-1101 — Thu: Ladies Night w/ guest DJs, 10; Fri: DJ T-Roy, 10; Sat: DJ Matic, 11 HOUSE OF BLUES — 225 Decatur St., 529-BLUE — Thu: Soul to Soul hip-hop dance party, 12 a.m.; Fri: Rumba Latin Dance Night, 12 a.m.; Sat: Groove House, hip-hop, dancehall, 12 a.m.

W JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER — 5342 St. Charles Ave., 455-5678 — Mon: Israeli dancing (couples not necessary), 7 p.m.

KING BOLDEN’S — 820 N. Rampart St., 525-2379 — Wed: B-Side w/ DJ Soul Sister & DJ Lady Lolo, 11; Thu: DJ Real & Proppa Bear, 11; Fri: DJ Kinetic, 11; Sat: DJ Maxmillion, 11; DJ Real 2 a.m.; Sun: Roots & reggae w/ DJ Real,11 LEGENDS — 2708 N. Hullen St., Metairie, 887-3877 — Thu: Ladies night w/ J & J Sounds, 10 LOFT 523 — 523 Gravier St. (504) 304-4555 — Tue: Planet Tango “Dance Tango Tonight,” lessons with Alberto Paz and Valorie Hart. 7 p.m. Beginners, 8 p.m. Intermediate/advanced, 9 p.m. General social tango dancing with DJ TangoMan. LOUNGE LIZARDS — 200 Decatur St., 598-1500 — Tue: Revolution Din-O-Mite w/ DJ Pasta, 10; Thu: Grand Imperial Night w/ DJ Maxmillion, 11 MO’S CHALET — 3201 Houma Blvd., Metairie, 780-2961 — Fri: El DJ Boricua, 1 a.m.; Sun: El DJ Boricua, 8 NICK’S BAR — 2400 Tulane Ave., 821-9128 — Mon: DJ Quickie Mart, 10:30 ONE EYED JACKS — 615 Toulouse St., 569-8361 — Thu: Fast Times (’80s dance night), 10 OZ — 800 Bourbon St., 593-9491 — High-energy dance music nightly; Thu, Fri, Sun afternoons: Drag queen bingo PARADE — 801 Bourbon St., 529-2107 — High-energy dance music nightly.

POPBAR — 533 Toulouse St., 568-1940 — Tue: Expression, ladies night; Wed: Stonewash, ’80s music; Thu: Freedom, college specials; Fri-Sat: Live go-go dancers and female DJs; Sun: Shag ’60s music; Mon: S.I.N. RASPUTIN’S — 600 St. Charles Ave., 561-9345 — Sat: DJ Lady Fingaz, 10 SHILOH — 4529 Tchoupitoulas St., 895-1456 — Wed: iPod night, 9; Thu— DJ T-Roy, 10; Fri: DJ Soul Sister, 11; Sat: Sugarcane Sessions, 10 SIDELINES BAR & GRILL — 1229 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 831-4002 — Fri: DJ Jerry Lewis, 9 TWIROPA (MILL ROOM) — 1544 Tchoupitoulas St., 587-3777 — Thu: Midnight University, 11; Sat: Tumbao! Latin night with live Latin music and DJs, 10; Sun: Midnight University, 11; UTOPIA — 227 Bourbon St., 523-3800 — Thu: Homemade bikini contest; Fri-Sat: Contemporary dance music by DJ Gil and Tony Twillie VINYL — 3012 N. Arnoult Road, Metairie, 456-9500 — Fri-Sun: Contemporary dance music a la MTV, VH1 and The Box WHIRLING DERVISH — 1135 Decatur St., 566-1338 — Thu: VS: Underground and indie rock from the United States and the United Kingdom, 11

karaoke BEACH HOUSE — 2401 N. Woodlawn, Metairie, 8851407 — All-ages karaoke until 9 p.m. nightly; adults-only karaoke after 9 p.m. nightly.

CAFE LAFITTE IN EXILE — 901 Bourbon St., 5228397 — Wed: Balcony Bar karaoke, 9 CAJUN’S PUB — 2256 St. Claude Ave. — Sat: karaoke, 9 COZY CORNER — 2300 21st St., Kenner, 467-2699 — Tue: Karaoke w/ Six Pack Entertainment, 8; Thu: Karaoke w/ Six Pack Entertainment, 8; Fri: Karaoke w/ Six Pack Entertainment, 9 DAIQUIRI BAY CAFE — 1001 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 838-2282 — Wed: Karaoke with O.T., 8 DAIQUIRIS & CREAMS — 1701 Lake Ave., Metairie, 835-3698 — Thu: Karaoke by Danny, 9; Sat: Karaoke

by Danny, 9 DALTON’S TAVERN — 1801 E. St. Bernard Hwy., Chalmette, 276-0661 — Thu: Ben & Peg’s B Sharp Karaoke, 7; Sat: Ben & Peg’s B Sharp Karaoke, 9 LOUNGE LIZARDS — 200 Decatur St., 598-1500 — Wed: Twisted Karaoke: live band playing punk, rock, metal, 10 MO’S CHALET — 3201 Houma Blvd., Metairie, 7802961 — Mon: Karaoke with Jody, 8 MULLIGAN’S TAVERNE — 3535 Severn Ave., Metairie, 888-5858 — Fri-Sat: Karaoke, 9 ROCCO’S BAR & GRILL — 9065 W. Judge Perez Drive, Chalmette, 279-9829 — Fri: Ben & Peg’s B Sharp Karaoke, 10 www.bestofneworleans.com | August 30, 2005 | Gambit Weekly

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THE CONSPIRACY IS GLOBAL PETER TRAVERS OF

A SIZZLING THRILLER THAT ENDS SUMMER ON A HIGH NOTE! ONE OF THE YEAR’S BEST AND MOST PROVOCATIVE MOVIES! PREPARE FOR A ” THRILLING RIDE!

BY RICK BARTON

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Cherry Pie Andy (Steve Carell) awkwardly tries to woo single mother Trish (Catherine Keener) in the romantic comedy The 40-Year-Old Virgin.

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ARTWORK: ©2005 FOCUS FEATURES LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

“electrifying entertainment!”

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BY TOM ROSENBERG GARY LUCCHESI ANDREW MASON MARCO MEHLITZ NEIL BLUHM JUDD MALKIN PRODUCERS RICHARD WRIGHT MICHAEL OHOVEN DIRECTED WRITTEN

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Gambit Weekly | August 30, 2005 | www.bestofneworleans.com

t is said that Quentin Tarantino holds an international film festival that features some movies so bad he has to warn viewers against ridiculing them. Every picture, he believes, no matter how unsuccessful, deserves to be taken seriously and respected for its effort and intent. This is how I know my wife is not Quentin Tarantino.

Counting the films we watch on video, Joyce probably sees about 150 movies a year, but her tolerance is nonetheless low. Before I could get her to go see Judd Apatow’s The 40-Year-Old Virgin, I told her I was relatively certain it didn’t sink to comedy about bodily functions.

She didn’t demand to leave when vomit erupted or the peeing scenes splashed across the screen, but she did threaten divorce. And that’s what’s so miraculous about this film. Low as it sinks, it rises far higher. Joyce and I regret the bathroom humor, but so much else was a literal scream. We haven’t laughed as long or as hard at a movie in years.

Written by Apatow with star Steve Carell, Virgin is the story of Andy Stitzer (Carell), an electronics-store employee who has reached early middle age without experiencing sex — with another person. As a teen, Andy’s dating disasters led him to quit before he got hurt, in his case physically as well as emotionally. Today, he lives alone but contentedly so. He’s sort of a sunny version of the romantic failure Steve Buscemi plays in Ghost World.

Andy fills his time collecting things and enjoying high-end video games.

He’s stopped thinking about sex, so he doesn’t miss it. In this approach to life’s privations, he provides an interesting model. He achieves happiness not by getting his wishes but by restricting his desires.

Then up jump a trio of inept dogooder co-workers who learn of Andy’s virginity and decide to orchestrate his deflowering. David (Paul Rudd) is a romantic idealist pining for an old girlfriend, and who hasn’t himself had sex recently. Jay (Romany Malco) thinks of himself as a grade-A stud, but when he hires a prostitute for Andy, he unknowingly picks a transvestite. Cal (Seth Rogen) regards himself a pickup expert, but his advice to hit on a drunk girl gets Andy showered with vomit. In short, not one of these guys has a clue, but a lot of the adventures they arrange for him pay solid comedic dividends.

The usual strategy of movies like this one is to rework the ugly-duckling theme. The hero starts out as a dork, but on a dare or out of kindness, some woman takes up with him despite his lack of appeal. And suddenly he blos-

soms. Apatow and Carell don’t take that route. Andy is a little quirky. He’s almost entirely devoid of professional ambition. He’s honest to a fault. He doesn’t own a car. But there’s basically nothing unusual about him or wrong with him. He’s nice looking, well-mannered, intelligent, thoughtful and affable. And, as a matter of fact, women are attracted to him. If he just wanted to lose his virginity, Paula, the manager at his store, would gladly accommodate him. Played by Jane Lynch (in A Mighty Wind she was the folk singer and former porn star who specialized in “things the others girls wouldn’t do”), Paula would make a formidable lover.

Tall, toothy and twitchy, she promises Andy that after sex with her, “I’ll haunt your dreams.” Paula isn’t quite a caricature of a sexual predator, but a barracuda would make a better bedmate, and Andy passes on her offers.

Most of Andy’s problems with women come from inexperience. He doesn’t know how to flirt, and he doesn’t understand when he’s being flirted with. He could probably find romance with Beth (Elizabeth Banks), a pretty bookstore clerk, but he doesn’t know how to close the deal. What he needs is a woman with patience, and he finally finds her in Trish (Catherine Keener), a woman his own age, mother of three, grandmother of one. Trish is a little ditzy. She’s got the fairly typical tense relationship with her teenage daughter.

But she’s nice, and she sees in Andy all the qualities we do.

Steve Carell comes out of sketch comedy. He’s a veteran of Second City and The Daily Show. Sketch comedians often try to translate their TV success into a movie career, but few last very long. Dan Aykroyd and Bill Murray do mostly drama now. Dana Carvey is reduced to the excruciating The Master of Disguise. Only time will tell whether Carell will fare better. But he’s off to a good start here. Writing for himself (disgusting moments aside), he’s created a vehicle that let him build several discreet sketches into a cohesive narrative.

And he knows how to hold back the cymbals for the end of the concert. The 40-Year-Old Virgin ends with a laugh so thunderous and sustained I was still GW wiping my eyes in the parking lot. GW THE 40-YEAR-OLD VIRGIN (PG-13) DIRECTED BY JUDD APATOW STARRING STEVE CARELL, CATHERINE KEENER WIDE RELEASE A-

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REVIEW

BY DAV ID LEE SIMMONS

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Cross to Bear If I could talk to the animals: Timothy Treadwell plays with his favorite fox while a bear roams in the background, one of many thrilling moments captured in Werner Herzog’s latest work, Grizzly Man.

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hroughout the hours of video footage that Timothy Treadwell shot of himself — some of which director Werner Herzog shaped into his latest film, Grizzly Man — the self-styled grizzly-bear activist swears his allegiance to his furry friends. At one point, in one of many incantation-like mantras, he swears, “I will die for these bears, I will die for these bears, I will die for these bears.”

It’s but one of several prescient and ironic moments in Grizzly Man, a borderline brilliant (and by now familiar) exploration on the part of Herzog into humankind’s complex relationship with nature and with itself. Herzog has long been fascinated with the hubris of man, most notably in his 1972 masterwork, Aguirre: Wrath of God, a fictionalized (one might say Bunuellian) account of the Spaniards’ 16th century pursuit of the mythical lost city of gold, El Dorado, as they fall into a trap set for them by restless Peruvian natives.

And while it might be a stretch to lump Timothy Treadwell in with Klaus Kinski’s Aguirre, whose thirst of power led to his undoing, you can certainly make the connections.

Treadwell spent 13 summers in the Alaskan wilderness observing and chronicling the wildlife, most particularly the grizzly bears, and even became a minor celebrity in the process after founding the group the Grizzly People. But his constant crossing of an unspoken boundary ended when, in October 2003, he and his girlfriend were mauled near their campsite at the Katmai National Park and Reserve. The suspected killer bear was later shot and killed. In learning about the hours of footage that Treadwell shot — of his subjects and himself — Herzog set about trying to learn why Treadwell did what he did and why it cost his (and his girlfriend’s) life.

The result is a mystery that is barely solved, for Herzog portrays Treadwell in several different lights, a conscious effort to leave unsatisfied those who might consider Treadwell a hero of wildlife and those who think him an arrogant fool. For everything noble and goodintentioned we learn about Treadwell (his passion for protecting animals he fears are in danger, his revealing footage of their behavior, his educational work in schools), we learn maybe too much of his darker side (his arguably “disrespectful” crossing of boundaries, his vanity, his disgust toward those who know better, his inability to protect those in his care). Indeed, while Treadwell (whose very name is steeped in irony) performed groundbreaking work in studying the habits of bears, his insistence that they needed protection in this, a federal reserve, flew in the face of logic presented by experts who apparently knew better. Just who, exactly, was

Timothy Treadwell trying to protect?

While the hours of footage that Treadwell shot are plenty revealing both in their natural glory and in his own ramblings, Herzog interviews friends, family members and wildlife experts to help provide some context for Treadwell’s actions. But Herzog being Herzog — he has been lauded and vilified over the years for his own boundary crossing, that of fiction and non-fiction film — he cannot help but provide his own insight into Treadwell’s words and deeds. And while some might find this self-indulgent (welcome to the Herzog Non-Fan Club), this is where Grizzly Man is at its most revealing. Why? Because “documentaries” are nothing if not a director’s fascination with a subject, and maybe too often filmmakers are hesitant to explain how they relate to their subject, to deconstruct the process itself. In one telling moment, Treadwell goes on a tirade in front of the camera, dissing all those who doubted his work in some triumphant fit of pique. Herzog, who sees Treadwell as a fellow filmmaker, notes that this is where Treadwell “crosses the line between performer and filmmaker” and makes a veiled comparison to a similar tirade by the mercurial Kinski — who became Herzog’s muse and albatross in their five films together.

There’s no doubt that Herzog is a more reliable guide into the heart of man’s darkness than Treadwell, so it’s only fitting that Herzog should feel compelled (and qualified) to characterize Treadwell as he does. He clearly had earned the trust of those around Treadwell, most notably Jewel Palovak, an ex-girlfriend who worked with Treadwell on Grizzly People and even co-authored a book with him on the subject.

Throughout Herzog’s film, we learn more and more about Treadwell, and the revelations become as unsettling as they do revealing. I’m hesitant to mention them here for fear of ruining the mystery, but what is important to understand is Herzog’s appreciation for not only our persistent desire to relate to — and sometimes conquer — nature, but also how that plays into our own sense of identity. For these wonderful, beautiful, intoxicating but ultimately violent bears allowed Treadwell to do what so many of us, particularly Americans, love to do: reinvent ourselves.

The ultimate tragedy of Grizzly Man is the price that Treadwell paid to find himself — not just his own life and that of his girlfriend, but one of the bears he GW fought so hard to protect. GW GRIZZLY MAN (R) DIRECTED BY WERNER HERZOG CANAL PLACE Awww.bestofneworleans.com | August 30, 2005 | Gambit Weekly

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LISTINGS A ROOM WITH A

EDITOR’S NOTE: Listings good through Thursday.

For updated listings and showtime information, please visit www.bestofneworleans.com.

VIEW

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R E C O M M E N D E D

Scheduled to Open Wednesday THE CONSTANT GARDENER (R) — A- An intertwining of the personal and the political, this film from Fernando Meirelles (City of God) boasts Oscar-worthy performances from Ralph Fiennes and Rachel Weisz as a mismatched married couple who find their lives — and love — torn apart by the brutalities of British politics in Africa. Their performances, Meirelles’ indie vibe and cinematographer César Charlone’s rich tableaux infuse this unhurried film with tragic beauty. (Carlson)

Scheduled to Open Friday JUNEBUG (R) — Phillip Morrison directed this story of a outsider art dealer (Embeth Davidtz) who gets entangled in a little more family drama than she bargained. She tries to juggle an art deal in North Carolina while getting to know her husband’s (Alessandro Nivola) relatives — including a pregnant sister-in-law (Amy Adams).

A SOUND OF THUNDER (PG-13) — Peter Hyams directs this futuristic thriller about time-traveling hunters who go back in time and wind up altering the course of history just by stepping on a butterfly. Edward Burns, Catherine McCormack and Ben Kingsley star.

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THE TRANSPORTER 2 (PG-13) — Raspy-voiced dude Jason Statham returns as ex-Special Forces agent Frank Martin, who finds retirement in Miami more dangerous than he thought it would be when he’s forced to retrieve two kidnapped sons of the family for which he serves as a chauffeur. Louis Leterrier (Unleashed) directs from a script by Luc Besson and Robert Mark Kamen, who wrote the original. Costars Matthew Modine and Keith David.

UNDERCLASSMAN (PG-13) — An even youngerlooking 24-year-old detective (Nick Cannon) is forced to go undercover at a private school where he discovers an auto-theft ring. Directed by Marcos Siega and co-starring Cheech Marin and Kelly Hu.

Now Showing 9 SONGS (NR) — Kieran O’Brien and Margo Stiley have sex and go to rock shows in Michael Winterbottom’s erotic film. Chalmette 9 THE 40-YEAR-OLD VIRGIN (R) — A- Judd Apatow’s comedy stars former Daily Show regular Steve Carell as a nice man who has managed to reach early middle age without ever having sex with another person. Three buddies including Paul Rudd try to help him overcome this deficiency.

Regrettably, the script by Apatow and Carell stoops to vomit and urination jokes, but despite that failing the picture rises to unusual comic heights.

It’s the funniest movie I have seen in a long while.

(Barton) (Reviewed in this issue.) AMC Palace 12, AMC Palace 16, AMC Palace 20, Chalmette 9, Holiday 12, Hollywood Cinemas 9, Movies 8 THE ARISTOCRATS (NR) — B+ Comedians Paul Provenza and Penn Jillette interview some 100 comics to provide the history behind the telling of the dirtiest joke of all time. This one inside joke serves as a history lesson of American comedy and shows how improvisation and, yes, obscenity and vulgarity, are so key in comic delivery. (Or, as Jillette puts it, “In all art, it’s the singer, not the song.”) The joke, both literally and figuratively, does get old after a while but also shows how comics we might not have loved altogether in years past can find their groove with the right setting. (Simmons) Canal Place BROKEN FLOWERS (PG-13) — B- Jim Jarmusch directed Bill Murray in a now all-too-familiar performance as a middle-age bachelor who tracks down several of his ex-girlfriends after receiving an unsigned letter informing him of a teenage son he never knew he had. Murray is starting to define his career by this type of character, and it’s starting to grow tired. But terrific supporting performances

by Sharon Stone, Frances Conroy, Jessica Lange and Tilda Swinton and Jarmusch’s subtle attempt at resolution make everything pleasant enough to digest. (Simmons) Canal Place THE BROTHERS GRIMM (PG-13) — Matt Damon and Heath Ledger co-star in director Terry Gilliam’s ( The Fisher King) story about the famous writers of children’s literature, here getting into a series of misadventures when they run afoul of evil sorceress Monica Bellucci. Co-stars Robin Williams and Jonathan Pryce. AMC Palace 12, AMC Palace 16, AMC

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Gambit Weekly | August 30, 2005 | www.bestofneworleans.com

The Constant Gardener (R) The latest film from Oscarnominated director Fernando Meirelles (City of God) is a smart and curious intertwining of the political and the personal.

Based on a John Le Carré novel, The Constant Gardener follows Justin Quayle (Ralph Fiennes), a boring British bureaucrat whose tempestuous aid-worker wife Tessa (Rachel Weisz) dies under mysterious circumstances in their adopted country of Kenya.

Justin’s final act of fidelity is to seek the truth about her death, an inconvenient plan for his political masters and for the pharmaceutical companies Tessa apparently spent her last days investigating.

Spurred by rumors of an affair and haunted by the idea that he never really understood Tessa, Justin — the gardener of the film’s title — begins to turn the earth, looking for answers. The details of his dangerous discoveries, however, pale in comparison to Fiennes’ passionate portrayal of a man who’s lost everything but found purpose.

Weisz, whose Tessa must capture our imagination through a series of flashback scenes, centers the film brilliantly. These performances, Meirelles’ indie vibe and cinematographer César Charlone’s rich tableaux infuse this unhurried film with tragic beauty. The story, like its awakening protagonist, ends somewhere beautifully unexpected.

— Shala Carlson

Scheduled to open in wide release Wednesday APalace 20, Chalmette 9, Grand, Holiday 12, Hollywood Cinemas 9, Movies 8, Prytania THE CAVE (PG-13) — A cave-diving rescue team get trapped and is forced to confront scary monsters in this action thriller directed by Bruce Hunt. AMC Palace 12, AMC Palace 16, AMC Palace 20, Chalmette 9, Grand, Holiday 12, Hollywood Cinemas 9, North Shore Square CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY (PG) — B+ Director Tim Burton continues to explore the misunderstood, creative outsider in his remake of the 1971 cult favorite starring Gene Wilder.

Burton’s version is truer to the slightly sinister heart of Roald Dahl, whose novel is the source for both movies. It’s often hysterical, largely due to Johnny Depp’s unhinged performance as Willy Wonka, which is equal parts Michael Jackson and Saturday Night Live-era Chevy Chase. (Rawls) AMC Palace 12, AMC Palace 16, AMC Palace 20, Chalmette 9, Grand, Holiday 12 DEUCE BIGALOW: EUROPEAN GIGOLO (PG-13) — Sequel to Rob Schneider’s “star vehicle” about an unlikely lothario, with Eddie Griffiin and Jean Reno co-starring. Mike Bigelow (no kidding) makes his directing debut here. AMC Palace 12, AMC Palace 16, AMC Palace 20, Chalmette 9, Grand, Holiday 12 THE DUKES OF HAZZARD (PG-13) — C+ It

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[FILM] LISTINGS would be so much easier to appreciate Jay Chandrasekhar’s remake of the buffoonish but charming ’70s TV show if he’d had a functional script or any kind of structure. Instead we have Seann William Scott, Johnny Knoxville and Jessica Simpson as the Duke chillun (with Willie Nelson cracking jokes as Uncle Jesse) really just having a grand old time at our expense. (Simmons) AMC Palace 12, AMC Palace 16, AMC Palace 20, Chalmette 9, Holiday 12, North Shore Square FANTASTIC 4 (PG-13) — B- This comic-book adaptation is a perfect example of a not-very-good movie that manages to still be entertaining. Tissuethin writing from Michael France and Mark Frost gives the leads very little to do, stranding strong actors like Ioan Gruffudd (Mr. Fantastic) and Julian McMahon (Victor Von Doom). (Carlson) Causeway 4 FORCES OF NATURE (NR) — Documentary about natural phenomena. Kenner MegaDome FOUR BROTHERS (PG-13) — Mark Wahlberg, Tyrese Gibson, Andre Benjamin and Garrett Hedlund costar as brothers who reunite at the death of their adoptive mother only to learn she was murdered.

John Singleton directs. AMC Palace 12, AMC Palace 16, AMC Palace 20, Chalmette 9, Grand, Holiday 12, Hollywood Cinemas 9, North Shore Square THE GREAT RAID (R) — James Franco and Joseph Fiennes co-star in John Dahl’s film based on the true story of a World War II mission to free POWs from a Japanese camp. AMC Palace 16, AMC Palace 20 GRIZZLY MAN (R) — A- Director Werner Herzog’s subjective use of and commentary on videotape footage taken by grizzly-bear activist Timothy Treadwell before Treadwell was killed by one of those very bears produces a fascinating meditation on how our own hubris and predilection for projecting our emotions onto animals can lead to ironic results. A subtle highlight is how Herzog relates to Treadwell’s walking that fine line between performer and filmmaker in chronicling his 13 summers in Alaska before his tragic death. (Simmons) (Reviewed in this issue.) Canal Place HUSTLE & FLOW (R) — B+ Terrence Howard continues a strong 2005 in writer-director Craig Brewer’s story about a melancholic Memphis pimp who sees hip-hop as a way out of the life. Hustle & Flow teeters on the edge of cliche and always seems neater and lighter than it should. (Simmons) Grand INTO THE DEEP (G) — IMAX cameras take a journey through the undersea world. Entergy IMAX MADAGASCAR (PG) — C+ Most of the jokes feel recycled in this tale of Central Park Zoo denizens who suddenly find themselves in the real jungle. Ben Stiller’s lion and Chris Rock’s zebra are fine, but David Schwimmer’s hypochondriac giraffe gives ScrappyDoo a run for Most Annoying Cartoon Character.

(Tisserand) AMC Palace 20

W this 3D look at famous sharks. Entergy IMAX THE SKELETON KEY (PG-13) — C- It’s as if director Iain Softley (K-PAX) set off a stereotype bomb in this by-the-numbers thriller. Sleep-walking Kate Hudson stars as a guilt-ridden twentysomething who accepts a job as a live-in nurse for stroke victim John Hurt in the bayous of Terrebonne Parish and becomes suspicious of his wife’s (Gena Rowlands) motives. (Simmons) AMC Palace 12, AMC Palace 16, AMC Palace 20, Chalmette 9, Grand, Holiday 12, North Shore Square SKY HIGH (PG) — B+ If John Hughes had directed a lost episode of Teen Titans, it might have played out something like this. Power couple Commander Stronghold (Kurt Russell) and Jetstream (Kelly Preston) have just one son, Will, and he hasn’t yet acquired any superpowers. Plus, he’s facing his first day of superhero high school, when the freshman class gets divided into heroes and sidekicks. Sky High soars up and away thanks to clever dialogue and sly casting. (Tisserand) AMC Palace 12, AMC Palace 16, AMC Palace 20, Chalmette 9, Grand, Holiday 12, Hollywood Cinemas 9, Movies 8 STATE PROPERTY 2 (R) — Damon Dash directs and co-stars with N.O.R.E. and Beanie Sigel in a film depicting Philadelphia gang life. Grand SUPERCROSS: THE MOVIE (PG-13) — Two brothers (Steve Howey and Mike Vogel) enter the sport of Supercross motorcycle racing and soon become rivals. Directed by Steve Boyum. AMC Palace 12, AMC Palace 16, AMC Palace 20, Grand, Holiday 12, Movies 8 UNDISCOVERED (PG-13) — Performers in Los Angeles get caught up in romantic affairs. Meiert Avis directs Steven Strait, Kip Kardue, Shannyn Sossamon and Ashlee Simpson. AMC Palace 16, AMC Palace 20, Causeway 4, Grand, North Shore Square VALIANT (G) — Disney offering features the voices of Rupert Everett, John Hurt and Ben Kingsley in a story based on World War II carrier pigeons. AMC Palace 12, AMC Palace 16, AMC Palace 20, Grand, Holiday 12, Hollywood Cinemas 9, Movies 8 WAR OF THE WORLDS (PG-13) — B+ Director Steven Spielberg creates an adrenaline-fueled space thriller, somewhere between the claustrophobia of Alien and the unease of a particularly tasty Twilight Zone episode. Still, Spielberg’s adaptation of H.G. Wells’ apocalyptic tale is too often (and especially at the end) just another brave new world wrapped in fuzzy-wuzzy marshmallow feelings. Causeway 4 WEDDING CRASHERS (R) — Owen Wilson and Vince Vaughn co-star as a couple of womanizing divorce mediators who attend weddings hoping to hook up with available women in this comedy directed by David Dobkin (Shanghai Knights). AMC Palace 12, AMC Palace 16, AMC Palace 20, Holiday 12, Hollywood Cinemas 9, Movies 8 WILD SAFARI 3-D (NR) — Liesl Eichenberger’s expedition to South Africa. Entergy IMAX

MARCH OF THE PENGUINS (G) — B Luc Jacquet’s documentary about the journey of a bunch of emperor penguins from one part of Antarctica to one even less hospitable for their breeding season is loaded with deft cinematography that delights. But you have to wonder if it might have been better suited to a National Geographic special or as an IMAX treat. (Simmons) AMC Palace 16, AMC Palace 20, Canal Place, Holiday 12, Movies 8

MARGAUX’S IN THE COURTYARD — Margaux’s on Oak (8400 Oak St.) movie series continues. This week: Finding Nemo at 6 p.m. Tuesday; Sleepless in Seattle, 8 p.m. Wednesday.

MEMORIES OF A MURDER (NR) — Bong Joon-Ho directs Kim Sang-Kyung and Song Kang-Ho in this thriller about the first Korean serial killer. In Korean with subtitles in English. Chalmette 9

MIDNIGHT MADNESS — This week: Lawrence Kasdan’s 1981 popcorn thriller, Raiders of the Lost Ark, starring Harrison Ford as the artifact hunter.

Midnight Friday-Saturday at Canal Place

MUST LOVE DOGS (PG-13) — B Gary David Goldberg’s romantic comedy stars Diane Lane as a divorced teacher at once eager for and scared of romance. Various troubles arise when her sisters take out a personal ad for her. (Barton) AMC Palace 12, AMC Palace 16, AMC Palace 20, Causeway 4, Movies 8

NEW ORLEANS IN FILM & REALITY — This week: 1938’s Jezebel, with Bette Davis as a petulant New Orleans debutante and Henry Fonda as her fiance. 7 p.m. Tuesday at Seven Devils Imagination Parlor

OCEAN WONDERLAND 3D (G) — The Great Barrier Reef and the Bahamas are explored. Entergy IMAX RED EYE (PG-13) — B Hesitant airline passenger Rachel McAdams ( The Wedding Crashers) finds out that flirtatious seatmate Cillian Murphy (28 Days Later) is actually an assassin who will have her father killed if she doesn’t help him in his plot to slay a U.S. official. Director Wes Craven misses a series of great opportunities here — the wit is never that clever, the tension never that thick, the supporting characters never that supportive — and Murphy’s character grows more cartoonish as McAdams’ grows bolder. Still, the actors develop a delicious chemistry, and Craven is clearly in thrall with their charms. (Simmons) AMC Palace 12, AMC Palace 16, AMC Palace 20, Chalmette 9, Grand, Holiday 12, Hollywood Cinemas 9, North Shore Square SHARKS 3D (G) — Jean-Michel Cousteau presents

Special Screenings

GET IN ON THE JOKE!

AMERICA’S TOP CRITICS ARE RAVING ABOUT BILL MURRAY AND “ONE OF THE SMARTEST, FUNNIEST AND MOST TOUCHING MOVIES OF THE SUMMER.” –Richard Roeper, EBERT & ROEPER

“PUT DOWN YOUR NEWSPAPER AND

RUSH OFF TO BUY TICKETS.”

“

” EXHILARATING! –Glenn Kenny

A.O. SCOTT, THE NEW YORK TIMES

“

“HANDS DOWN

THE FUNNIEST OF THE YEAR!” DAVID ANSEN, NEWSWEEK

WONDERFUL” MISCHIEF! –Peter Travers

FUNNY TENDER ” AND GENEROUS! –A.O. Scott “

,

” A MASTERPIECE! –Glenn Whipp

“

A FILM BY PAUL PROVENZA AND PENN JILLETTE

NO NUDITY. NO VIOLENCE. UNSPEAKABLE OBSCENITY.

www.thearistocrats.com COPYRIGHT © 2005 MIGHTY CHEESE PRODUCTIONS, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

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PEEP SHOW FILM SCREENINGS — This week: Mama Wahunzi, La Vida and Painted Earth by Lawan Jirasuradej. 8 p.m. Wednesday

AMC Palace 12 734-2020; AMC Palace 16 734-2020; AMC Palace 20 734-2020; Big Top Gallery 569-2700; Canal Place 363-1117; Causeway 4 (985) 626-9853; Chalmette 9 277-9766; Deutsches Haus 522-8014; Entergy IMAX 581-4629; Grand 240-4100; Holiday 12 (985) 893-5444; Hollywood Cinemas 9 4640990; Iron Rail Collective 944-0366; Margaux’s on Oak 865-1559; Movies 8 (985) 641-2110; North Shore Square (985) 847-1418; Prytania 891-2787; Seven Devils Imagination Parlor 304-8245 Contributors: Rick Barton, Shala Carlson, Alex Rawls, Michael Tisserand, David Lee Simmons Compiled by David Lee Simmons and Katie Walenter www.bestofneworleans.com | August 30, 2005 | Gambit Weekly

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ART

INSIDE ART

BY D. ERIC BOOKHARDT

G

W

Entropy and Empire In Robert Warrens’ painting Dark Twins, psychedelic colors and an apocalyptic aura remind us that flowers are always more than just flowers.

disquieting. In Warrens’ work, the natural world is always rebelling, transforming simple flowers into players in the titanic clashes between human intervention and nature’s fruitful anarchy. Even so, this series feels a tad transitional, and it will be interesting to see where it all leads.

Titanic clashes of another sort are seen in Cara Moczygemba’s Pastoral Scene series of smallish clay sculptures that combine equestrian and imperial themes with notions of beauty and irony.

Arden is simple and mythic, a tree trunk with the head and shoulders of a maiden who might be comely were it not for her hairless head and petulant expression, her “pillar of salt” aura of comeuppance. In the City is more complex, a fragmented tableau with an Orthodox female saint presiding beatifically over a jumble of severed heads, broken bodies and a horse without a rider, all of which hint at the artist’s Romanian ancestry and the way small Slavic countries have born the brunt of the clashes between empires. (Is this what gives those East European artists and writers their lyrically ironic edge?)

Recline is far more personal if no less fragmented. Here a finely formed female body with the head of a baby emerges from the cranium of a far larger head riddled with holes. A scrimshaw woman raises a severed arm in a proprietary gesture, as if taking credit for this baby Frankenstein with the pin-up physique, hinting at a future when bodies will be disposable and replacements conform to our mental images. But Moczygemba’s sense of irony ensures that the grotesquery of such a notion does not go unnoticed. Just as the superhighways to hell are paved with good intentions, the world’s oldest roads are paved over the ruins of fallen empires. All things must GW pass. GW

FLEUR DE LIS NEW RELEASE

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NOW IN GALLERIES

Intaglio Cuff Sterling $200 14K Gold $3,300

THROUGH SEPT. 10

Intaglio Ring Sterling $95 14K Gold $795

SYLVIA SCHMIDT GALLERY, 400-A JULIA ST., 522-2000

Available in Men and Women’s sizes

ROBERT WARRENS: THE POND

BY

Photography: Glade Bilby II

F

or years he traveled between his home in Lakeview and his job in Baton Rouge, observing many wondrous and startling things along the way. It was a path strewn with man and nature’s more peculiar doings, lakes and bayous traversed by endless strips of concrete interstate on stilts; swamps teeming with wildlife alternating with chemical refineries teeming with toxins; fishing villages and small towns alternating with endless malls and suburban sprawl.

What he saw was modern America, Louisiana style, wet and wild as well as paved and polluted. The contrast resonated in his paintings.

But there is a season for all things and, after years spent teaching aspiring artists, including many of this state’s most respected painters, Robert Warrens decided it was time to focus on his own work in the comfort of his home. So he built a West Indies-style house on the Northshore with wrap-around porches that could double as open-air studios, and while it must be nice to no longer have to endure those long commutes, they were also the source of much of his subject matter.

So now what? In his new work, it appears Warrens has narrowed his focus to the world just beyond his porch, a real challenge in its own right because it’s not easy to be a creative homebody like Giorgio Morandi, who painted endless arrangements of bottles in his studio, or Emily Dickinson, whose greatest poems were the result of mental travels that rarely ever took her beyond her front door. So is Warrens the Morandi of Mandeville? Time will tell, but he’s off to a colorful start.

Cala Lily is a straight-up view of some flowers doing their thing, worshipping the sun as the darkening woods loom in the background. If this sounds soporific a la Monet, it’s not. Warrens can be a diabolical colorist, and even in this quiescent mode, his tones retain a manic edge. A fondness for psychedelic shades with an apocalyptic aura is seen in Dark Twins, a view of some flora in a rain-soaked garden. Here a lily turns pale petals to the sky like a wine glass to a bottle of Chardonnay as a pair of dark and spindly blooms endure the elements with the stoic forbearance of the damned. A fringe of crimson-fuchsia blossoms like an encroaching brush fire accentuates the Fleurs du Mal aura, and while the setting is idyllic, the tones are

CARA MOCZYGEMBA: PASTORAL SCENE THROUGH SEPT. 29 D.O.C.S. GALLERY, 709 CAMP ST., 524-3936; WWW.DOCSGALLERY.COM

CANAL PLACE · 524.2973 · 3801 MAGAZINE · 891.2005 LAKESIDE · 835.2244 · WWW.MIGNONFAGET.COM www.bestofneworleans.com | August 30, 2005 | Gambit Weekly

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ART

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LISTINGS WHAT YOU

galleries

SEE

IS WHAT YOU GET

R E C O M M E N D E D

3 RING CIRCUS’ THE BIG TOP GALLERY. 1638 Clio St., 569-2700; www.3rcp.com — Hot For Teacher, group exhibition of teaching artists including Karen Abboud, Ryan Ballard, Kathy Hughes, David Rex Joyner, Maurice Stockton III, Dan Tague, Belinda Tanno, Janelle Mullen Trosclair and Heather Weathers, through Aug. 31.

HOUSE OF ART. 959 Gerard St., Mandeville, (985) 674-9261 — Oil, watercolor and acrylic paintings and prints by Mildred Reynolds and Carol Hallock, ongoing.

JACK GALLERY. 537 Royal St., 588-1777 — Boys Can’t Accessorize, paintings, lithographs and posters by Todd Goldman, ongoing. Opening reception with the artist, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Friday.

ACADEMY GALLERY. 5256 Magazine St., 899- 8111 — The 2005 Annual Faculty Exhibition, through Sept.

27. Opening reception 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday.

JANE & FRIENDS. 720 Julia St., 553-9791 — Group exhibit of Louisiana and Mississippi artists featuring paintings, sculpture, mixed media, jewelry, wood furniture and carvings, photography and textiles, through September.

ALEX BEARD GALLERY. 319 Chartres St., 568-1976; www. alexbeard.com — Paintings and drawings by Alex Beard, ongoing; paintings by James T. Martin, through August.

JEAN BRAGG GALLERY OF SOUTHERN ART. 600 Julia St., 895-7375; www.jeanbragg.com — Historical Louisiana paintings, Newcomb pottery and crafts, George E. Ohr pottery, ongoing.

ALEXANDER AND VICTOR FINE ART. 312 Royal St., 586-7555; www.alexanderandvictor.com — Paintings and line drawings by Jann Harrison, ongoing.

ANTON HAARDT FOLK GALLERY. 2858 Magazine St., 568-1313; www.antonart.com — Mose T: A to Z, folk art by Mose Tolliver, ongoing.

ARIODANTE GALLERY. 535 Julia St., 524-3233 — Watercolor and acrylic paintings by Ines Kramer, through August.

ARTEBELLA GALLERY. 323 Chartres St., 299-7196 — Work by gallery artist David Cameron Rankin; new paintings by D. Loy Scott; both ongoing.

ARTHUR ROGER GALLERY. 432 Julia St., 522-1999; www.arthurrogergallery.com— Sculpture by Lin Emery, through Sept. 10.

ARTHUR ROGER GALLERY PROJECT. 730 Tchoupitoulas St., 522-1999; www.arthurrogergallery.com — John T. Scott — Circle of Dance: Selections from the New Orleans Museum of Art Retrospective, through Sept. 10.

ARTICHOKE GALLERY. 912 Decatur St., 636- 2004 — Watercolors and prints of New Orleans’ landmarks

by Peter Briant, ongoing.

BARLOW ART GALLERY. 805 Royal St., 523-2964 — Dirty Metal, artwork by Connie Chapman Breithoff; new works

by T. White, Jusics and Ponno, through Sept. 20.

BARRISTER’S GALLERY. 1724 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd., 525-2767; www.barristersgallery.com — Works

by John Arceneaux, David Bradshaw, Ryan Burns, Julie Crozat, Mike Fedor, John Greco, Matjames, Kristine Meyers, Sean Star Wars and Myrtle Von Damitz III, ongoing.

BRYANT GALLERIES. 316 Royal St., 525-5584; www. bryantgalleries.com — New paintings by Juan Medina, through Aug. 31.

CAROL ROBINSON GALLERY. 840 Napoleon Ave., 8956130 — 25th Aniversary Exhibition, through August.

CARROLL GALLERY. Newcomb Art Department, Woldenberg Art Center, 314-2228; www.tulane. edu/~art/carrollgallery — Data Study: New Work by Kevin H. Jones, through Sept. 23.

COLE PRATT GALLERY. 3800 Magazine St., 319-8106 — Five Decades, Five Paintings by Richard Johnson, through Sept. 24. Opens Thursday.

COLLINS C. Diboll Art Gallery. Loyola University, Monroe Library, 6363 St. Charles Ave., 861-5456 — Visual Arts Faculty Exhibition, through Sept. 1.

CONTEMPORARY ARTS CENTER. 900 Camp St., 528-3805; www.cacno.org — The Culture of Queer: A Tribute to J.B. Harter, through Sept. 18.

THE DARKROOM. 1927 Sophie Wright Place, 522-3211; www.neworleansdarkroom.com — Exhibit of photographs from the 1960s taken by Alain Desvergnes and friends in Faulkner Country. Reception 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday.

D.O.C.S GALLERY. 709 Camp St., 524-3936; www. docsgallery.com — Ceramic sculpture by Cara Moczygemba, through Sept. 29.

EUROPA FINE ART. 526 Royal St., 412-8884 — Contemporary European art by Shana Danilyants, Sergey Cherep, Manuel Vicario and Vincent Richiux, ongoing.

FRIENDS OF RIVERTOWN FINE ART GALLERY. 409 Williams Blvd., Kenner, 471-2156 — Artwork by Paul Dugas and William Hoyle, through Sept. 7.

FT. ISABEL GALLERY. 502 N. Columbia St., Covington, (985) 892-1841 — Group show by gallery artists Beryl Carbon, Delania LeBlanc, Carol Hallock, Suzanne King, Wes Koon, Carol Lapari, Martin Needom, Ginger Pine, Johnny Stout and Lynda Thurlow, through August; Works by gallery artists Beryl Carbon, Carol Hallock, Suzanne King, Wes Koon, Carol Lapari, Delaina LeBlanc, Martin Needom,

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raphy by Emily Brady, Jackie Brenner, Brett Henry, Jeff Hersch and M. Delos Reyes, ongoing.

HERIARD-CIMINO GALLERY. 440 Julia St., 525-7300 — Recent Escapes, new paintings and mixed media

by Carlos de Villasante, through Sept. 24.

A GALLERY FOR FINE PHOTOGRAPHY. 241 Chartres St., 568-1313; www.agallery.com — Helmut Newton and Fonville Winans: Portraits, Landscape and History, through September.

ANIMAZING GALLERY. 906 Royal St., 525-0744 — Animation art, ongoing.

W

Carlos de Villasante: Recent Escapes

As a child in his native Mexico, Carlos de Villasante was fascinated by wrestlers and the bizarre masks they wore in their highly theatrical confrontations. Today that fascination lingers and finds expression in his colorful mixed-media works.

Drawing from the past and present, he combines portraits reminiscent of Latin American political posters with images of masks and archeological ruins, sometimes applied to vintage automobile hoods, to create an unlikely hybrid of ancient and 20th century relics. His self-portraits combine dance-like gestures and Mesoamerican archeology into smorgasbords of symbols that hark to his heritage and personal history.

For Villasante, a Miami resident who graduated from the Rhode Island School of Design and the Memphis College of Art, it’s all a form of time travel, and it’s all in a day’s work.

— D. Eric Bookhardt

Through Sept. 24 Heriad-Cimino Gallery, 440 Julia St., 525-7300; www.heriardcimino.com Ginger Pine and Lynda Thurlow, ongoing.

GALERIE D’ART FRANCAIS. 541 Royal St., 581-6925 — Contemporary French Impressionism by Marc Clauzade, Nicole Sebille and Todd White, ongoing.

GALERIE RIVE GAUCHE. 318 Royal St., 524-5623 — Work by European artists Gerard Valtier, Clothilde and Ford Smith, ongoing.

GALLERIA BELLA. 319 Royal St., 581-5881 — Contemporary European art by Mars Savaro, Antonio Gravna and Nadme Lecomte, ongoing.

GALLERY BIENVENU. 518 Julia St., 525-0518; www. gallerybienvenu.com — Contemporary artwork by Peter Opheim, Katharine White, KeySook Geum and Teresa Cole, ongoing.

GLASSLIGHT ART GALLERY. 728 St. Louis St., 5877051 — Work by gallery artists, ongoing.

GUTHRIE CONTEMPORARY. 3815 Magazine St., 8972688 — Remnants of Boundaries, selected works

by Suk Ja Kang Engles, through Sept. 24. Opening reception 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

HANSON GALLERY. 229 Royal St., 524-8211; www. hansongallery-nola.com — Works by gallery artists Peter Max, Michelle Gagliano, Sarah Griffith, Raymond Douillet, Adrian Deckbar, Steve Taylor, Frederick Hart and Leroy Neiman, ongoing.

JONATHAN FERRARA GALLERY. 841 Carondelet St., 522-5471 — American Muscle, group show curated by Dan Tague, through Sept. 3.

KEVIN GILLENTINE. 3908 Magazine St., 899-4201; www.kevingillentine.com — New paintings by the artist, ongoing.

KURT E. SCHON. 510-520 St. Louis St., 524-5462 — Oil paintings from the 18th and 19th centuries by European artists, including Daniel Ridgway Knight, Louis Aston Knight, Daniel Sherrin and Edouard Leon Cortes, ongoing.

LEMIEUX GALLERIES. 332 Julia St., 522-5988; www. lemieuxgalleries.com — Microbe-Mania (And Other Fears), ceramic sculpture by John Donovan, through Sept. 24.

LIL JOE’S SNOWBALLS & ART GALLERY. 527 St. Joseph St., 250-0526, www.liljoesnowballs.com — Artwork by Chuck Selsor and Steve Williams, permanent; work by gallery artists, ongoing.

MERIGOLD. 3652 Magazine St., 897-4837 — Knot Gardens, paintings by Lisette Copping and sculpture

by Anthony Henderson, ongoing.

METAIRIE PARK COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL’S ART GALLERY. 300 Park Road, Metairie, 866-2084 — Toys ’R Art artwork by students, faculty and alumni of Metairie Park Country Day School and by regional artists, through Sept. 22.

MOXY STUDIOS. 3811 Magazine St., 309-2516; www. moxystudios.com — Group show of contemporary artwork by Joan Cox, Timothy Weekly, Mary Jacque Benner, Janis Jagodzinski, Sheep Jones, Julia Niederman, David Richardson, Beverly Ryan and Gina Falcone Skelton, through Sept. 3.

MUSEO FINE ART. 1034 Royal St., 569-0023 — Nudes, group show featuring local artists including Peter Yokum, Joshua Walsh and Michael Fedor, through September.

NEIGHBORHOOD GALLERY. 1410 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd., 524-8800 — Soul Strut, an exhibition of paintings by Joe Gordon, through August.

NEW ORLEANS ARTWORKS. 727 Magazine St., 5297279; www.neworleansglassworks.com/site2/mainpage.htm — Marble sculpture by Michael Stanley; deep-sea dive works by Stephen Williams; oceanic prints by Pamela Conway Caruso; all through Sept. 30.

NEW ORLEANS CENTER FOR CREATIVE ARTS/RIVERFRONT. 2800 Chartres St., 835-6002; www.nocca.com — All Creatures Great & Small, paintings, sculpture and mixed media by Matteo Neivert, through Oct. 9; Off-theShelf: A Book Art Exhibition, multimedia show curated

by Jan Gilbert featuring works by Virginia Batson, Gerald Cannon, Angela Driscoll, David DuBose, Deborah Greenwood, William Kitchens, Page Moran, Laura Richens and Jessica Spring, through Oct. 9.

NEW ORLEANS GLASSWORKS AND PRINTMAKING STUDIO. 727 Magazine St., 529-7277; www.neworleansglassworks.com/site2/mainpage.htm — Blown sugar sculpture by Kevin Goodwin; stained-glass window panels

by Michael Dearie; both through Sept. 30. Opening reception 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday.

NEXT II FINE ART. 1128 St. Roch Ave., 948-0772 — Work by Karen T. Blomme, Steve Banks, William Gathright, Corliss Chastain and Zen paintings by John Marron, ongoing.

RHINO GALLERY. 633 St. Peter St., 569-8191 — Glassand woodwork, ceramics, sculpture, jewelry and textiles by Louisiana artists, ongoing.

HANSON-KING GALLERY. 523 Royal St., 566-8240; www.hansonking.com — Works by gallery artists Larry Valenza, Terri Hallman, David Rankin, Frederick Hart, M.L. Snowden and T.L. Lange, ongoing.

RODRIGUE STUDIO. 721 Royal St., 581-4244; www.georgerodrigue.com — Paintings and silkscreens by George Rodrigue, plus new works from the Bodies series and an 8-foot metal Blue Dog sculpture, ongoing.

HENRY GALLERY. 840 Camp St., 218-7876 — Photog-

ROYALBLUES GALLERY. 623 Royal St., 524-2583

[ART] LISTINGS

SEVEN DEVILS. 1111 St. Mary St., 304-8245; www. sevendevilsparlor.com — Multimedia works by local artists, ongoing.

GERMAINE CAZENAVE WELLS MARDI GRAS MUSEUM. Arnaud’s Restraunt, 813 Bienville St., 523-5433; www.arnauds.com/museum.html — Exhibit featuring costumes, Carnival memorabilia and vintage photos from 1937 to 1968, open during restaurant hours.

SLIDELL CULTURAL CENTER. 444 Erlanger St., Slidell, (985) 646-4375, www.slidell.la.us — Catch a Rising Star: The Talented Artists of NOCCA, through Sept. 24.

HISTORIC NEW ORLEANS COLLECTION. 533 Royal St., 523-4662; www.hnoc.org — The Terrible and the Brave: The Battles for New Orleans, 1814-1815, through Jan. 8, 2006.

SOREN CHRISTENSEN GALLERY. 400 Julia St., 5695901; www.sorengallery.com — Abstract paintings

by James Leonard, through Sept. 29. Opening reception 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday.

LOUISIANA STATE MUSEUM PRESBYTERE. 751 Chartres St., 568-6968; lsm.crt.state.la.us/site/presbex. htm.— The Mardi Gras Art of Tony Green, through Nov. 20.

STEVE MARTIN STUDIO. 624 Julia St., 566-1390 — Just Today, paintings by Marc Kullman, ongoing.

MUSEUM OF THE AMERICAN COCKTAIL. 514 Chartres St., (516) 355-6319; www.museumoftheamericancocktail.org — Ongoing exhibits about the history of the American cocktail.

SYLVIA SCHMIDT GALLERY. 400-A Julia St., 5222000; www.sylviaschmidt.com — The Pond, new paintings and works on paper by Robert Warrens, through Sept. 10.

VENUSIAN GARDENS. 2601 Chartres St., 943-7446 — Artwork by Eric Ehlenberger, ongoing.

WAITING ROOM GALLERY. 906 Pauline St., 9491805; www.wroomgallery.com — Pick the One That Doesn’t Fit, photography by Jonathan Traviesa, through Oct. 22.

THE WILLIAM & JOSEPH GALLERY. 713 Royal St., 566-7009; www.thewilliamandjosephgallery.com — Oil paintings by Ken Frink, through Oct. 17.

THE WILLIAM AND JOSEPH GALLERY. 713 Royal St., 566-7009; www.thewilliamandjosephgallery. com — Landscape paintings by Mark Ramy, metal sculpture by Barrett DeBusk, floral paintings by Jaline Pol, jewelry by Monique Leon and glasswork by artists from around the country, ongoing.

spare spaces CAFE DEGAS. 3127 Esplanade Ave., 945-5635 — Remembering Japan, photographs by Elinor S. Cohen, through Sept. 19. Artist’s reception 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday.

CRESCENT CITY BREWHOUSE. 527 Decatur St., 522-0577 — Satchmo Art Show, through Aug. 30; artwork by the Louisiana Watercolor Society, through Sept. 26. Opens Tuesday. Reception 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

FIRST CUP CAFE. 3146A Calhoun St., 283-3838 — Nouveaux Artiste, contemporary works by emerging artists, through Sept. 3.

GAME KLUB. 3030 N. Arnoult Road, Metairie, 908-0059 — Gallery of Invisible Art, group show from the permanent collection; Lightorium Gallery, painting with light by Jack Boasberg; both ongoing.

THE GOLDEN LANTERN. 1239 Royal St., 529-2860; www.carnivalfaces.com — Portraits of Southern Decadence Grand Marshalls by Levy Easterly, through September.

NATIONAL ART & HOBBY. 5835 Magazine St., 899-4491; www.nationalartandhobby.com — Artwork by Kenneth Wesley, Sarah Griffin Thibodeaux and Michael Hayes. Artists reception with food and refreshments, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday.

THE PLAZA. The Riverwalk Marketplace, 1 Poydras St., 524-3342, www.southernfood.org — The Southern Food & Beverage Museum presents Tout de Sweet ... All About Sugar, ongoing.

SUKHOTHAI. 1913 Royal St., 948-9309 — Paintings

by Joel Kelly, ongoing.

TWIROPA. 1544 Tchoupitoulas St., 587-3777; www.twiropa.com — Backstage Photo Confessions, photographs by Leslie T. Snadowsky, ongoing.

VEGA TAPAS CAFE. 2051 Metairie Road, Metairie, 836-2007; www.vegatapascafe.com — Modern metal and mixed-media sculpture by local artist Scot Evert, ongoing.

museums AMERICAN-ITALIAN MUSEUM & RESEARCH LIBRARY. 537 S. Peters St., 522-7294 — Hand-painted and lettered plaques by artist Franco Alessandri, photographs, and memorabilia.

AMISTAD RESEARCH CENTER ART GALLERY. Tulane University, Tilton Hall, 6823 St. Charles Ave., 8655535; www.amistadresearchcenter.org — Exhibition of paintings by Henry O. Tanner, Edward M. Bannister and Ellis Wilson, through Sept. 30.

THE NATIONAL D-DAY MUSEUM. 945 Magazine St., 527-6012; www.ddaymuseum.org — War uniform and photograph of James Braddock, former heavyweight champion and captain in WWII, through Sept. 15; Many Nations, One Goal, America and her Allies in WWII, through Aug. 31.

NEW ORLEANS HISTORIC TRAIN GARDEN AT CITY PARK. Botanical Garden, City Park, 482-4888, www. neworleanscitypark.com/nobg.php — Miniature replicas of New Orleans architectural styles crafted from botanical bits, plus small-scale trains and streetcars, all in garden setting. Permanent exhibit is included with regular admission to New Orleans Botanical Garden.

NEW ORLEANS MUSEUM OF ART. City Park, 1 Collins Diboll Circle, 483-2316; www.noma.org — The 2005 New Orleans Triennial: A Southern Perspective on Prints, through Oct. 16; Seldom Seen: Aspects of English and Continental Ceramics, through Sept. 4.

NEW ORLEANS PHARMACY MUSEUM. 514 Chartres St., 565-8027 — Permanent and rotating exhibits on the history of pharmacy, healthcare and medicine.

OGDEN MUSEUM OF SOUTHERN ART. 925 Camp St., 539-9600; www.ogdenmuseum.com — Readers, Advisors and Storefront Churches: Works by Renée Stout, through Sept. 24; William Eggleston: People, through Nov. 13; Missing (No. 3), painting by Philip Morsberger, ongoing; Recent Acquisitions: The Ogden Museum Permanent Collection, through Nov. 6; Observations: Sketchbooks, Paintings and Architecture of Errol Barron.

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OLD U.S. MINT. 400 Esplanade Ave., 568-6990; lsm.crt.state.la.us/site/mintex.htm — New Orleans Jazz; The United States Mint, New Orleans: Its History and Operations; Newcomb Pottery and Crafts, A Toast of New Orleans; Galatoire’s Restaurant: Celebrating 100 Years; Revealing an American Wilderness: Audubon’s Birds of Louisiana, all ongoing.

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SYDNEY AND WALDA BESTHOFF SCULPTURE GARDEN. New Orleans Museum of Art, City Park, 1 Collins Diboll Circle, 483-2316; www.noma.org — Five-acre outdoor collection of modern and contemporary sculpture, free and open to the public.

WILLIAMS RESEARCH CENTER. Williams Research Center, 410 Chartres St., 598-7171; www.hnoc. org/willcent.htm — Louisiana Sites and Citizens, permanent; A Dollop of History in Every Bite!, exhibit on New Orleans cooking traditions, through Dec. 3.

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— Group show featuring Kirsten Harlow, TJ Black, Lisa Cohen, Curtis Matherne, Alexander Harvie and Amanda Gresham, ongoing.

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call for artists ARTEGG ARTMART EXHIBITORS. 1001 S. Broad St., New Orleans, LA 70125, 822-4002; www.artegg.com — Painters, photographers, furniture makers, wood carvers, potters, glassmakers, sculptors, basket makers, jewelers, weavers and purveyors of nonperishable organic products are invited to exhibit. Spaces are 10-by-10 feet and exhibitors must provide own tents or tables. A deposit of $40 and a rental fee of $40 is required monthly. ArtMart is every second Saturday of the month.

CRESCENT CITY BREWHOUSE ART EXHIBITIONS. Crescent City Brewhouse, 527 Decatur St., 522-0577 — Crescent City Brewhouse seeks artwork for its 2006 season of exhibitions. All media welcome. Contact Inge Comford at 522-3901 for details.

PHOTOGRAPHY & QUILT EXHIBITS. Iberville Museum, 57735 Main St., Baton Rouge, (225) 687-7197 — The Iberville Museum Association seeks submissions from photographers and quilters for two separate exhibits, Iberville Images and Birds of a Feather. Call (225) 6877197 for complete guidelines. Photographs due Sept.

1. Quilts due Feb. 20, 2006. www.bestofneworleans.com | August 30, 2005 | Gambit Weekly

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Saturday, Sunday, and Monday - September 3, 4 and 5

Labor Day Weekend Join us for our wild celebration featuring: •

• • • • •

•

Johnette Downing performances: World of Water Stage Saturday and Sunday @ 11:30am and 1:00 pm Monday @ 2pm First 150 kids get free admission each day Johnette Downing Free birthday hats (while supplies last) Special appearance by Otteaux the Aquarium mascot Patience the Penguin Commemorative Birthday Poster available for purchase Fun-filled activities for everyone • Hands-on arts & crafts • Birthday-themed animal chats and encounters • Special animal feedings • Insect Express, Aquavan and Wildlife on Wheels presentations Monday, September 5 Sierra Mist Lemon Lime Challenge -- let your taste decide!

Saturday, September 3rd from 10am to 4pm

Sponsored by:

Call 581-4629 or visit www.auduboninstitute.org for more information.

Event is free with paid admission or membership.

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STAGE

PROSCENIUM

BY DALT WONK

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W

Isles of Cancer Bewitched: Elena (Laura Campbell) captivates Astrov

l

(Danny Bowen) in Red Noses’ recent mounting of Anton

Nickel and Dimed

Chekhov’s Uncle Vanya.

A

nton Chekhov wrote Uncle Vanya at the turn of the last century.

The play is subtitled “Scenes From Country Life.” Sounds like a pastoral, doesn’t it? But the subtitle is ironic, not to say scathing. This countryside is a morass, almost a pit of quicksand.

These bucolic folks are drowning in boredom and hopelessness. And yet, Chekhov moves us and makes us care about them — partly because, as unlikely as it seems, we see our own reflection in his samovar-steamed mirror.

Uncle Vanya tells the story of Alexander (Mark McLaughlin), an elderly retired professor of art, and his coquettish young wife, Elena (Laura Campbell). These two city folk disturb the dreary routine on a country estate and its inhabitants.

Romantic love plays a huge part in the drama. Sonya (Diana Shortes), the professor’s daughter by a previous marriage, longs for Astrov (Danny Bowen), a doctor and longtime family friend. But her longings are unrequited. Worse still, Astrov loses his head over Elena.

Vanya (Gavin Mahlie) is Sonya’s uncle.

He’s been working day and night along with her to run the estate. They’ve scrimped and struggled, while sending every spare penny to the professor so that the great man can live in the city in the style to which he’s accustomed.

There is a fundamental inequality here. Sonya and Vanya are treated like inferiors, like sacrificial victims whose dull existences are rightfully dedicated to sustaining the glamorous life of the questionably brilliant, tyrannical Alexander. To make matters worse, Vanya is also smitten with love for Elena. To these aging, embittered country gentlemen, Elena takes on the allure of a sort of demimondaine Beatrice — a symbolic muse of pleasure, adventure and satisfaction.

Under Buzz Podewell’s direction, the Red Noses Company brought this classic to life with a mesmerizing honesty.

The main characters and their dilemmas held us spellbound. Supporting roles were effectively done by Abby Lake, Greg Stratton, Lauren Swinny, David Stidd and Ty Hosler. Joan Long designed the excellent set.

The Cripple of Inishmaan by Martin McDonagh (recently produced by the NOLA Project at NOCCA) made an interesting comparison with Uncle Vanya. Once again, we were whisked to the provinces, but this time the countryside was a small, backward island

off Ireland.

In Inishmaan, the language was amusingly colorful, partly because a vowel shift made some of the expletives softer and more exotic to our ears. “Feck off, you old fecker” and “what a pile of shite” lack the ominous ring of the Nixon Watergate tapes or David Mamet’s real estate salesmen.

The Cripple was produced by NOCCA alumnus (and current NYU student) Andrew Larimer — with a little help from his friends. Larimer also played the part of the eponymous cripple, Billy. One of the ways The Cripple resembled Vanya was the strength and poise of the cast.

The central character, Cripple Billy, has a host of troubles. Kissing lasses is not one of them. “No chance of that,” says his aunt Eileen (Janet Shea), noting that the village slut would kiss a bald donkey, but she’d draw the line at Billy.

“No, we’ll be stuck with him all our lives,” laments his other aunt (Angela Vitale) — though perhaps she’s really gloating.

Johnny Pateenmike (Alex Martinez Wallace), village gossip and unofficial town crier, announces that a famous Hollywood director is coming to Ireland to make “a picture filum.” We also learn that Billy is in love with a shrewish girl named Helen (Kathlyn Tarwater); that Billy’s parents drowned, possibly by accident; and that Billy has a harmless wheeze, though he claims it’s tuberculosis. By the end of the first act, I was struck by the skill and wit of the playwright.

In the second act, Billy goes off to America to pursue a career in the movies. The about-faces in the plot begin to mount. Billy has TB. No, he doesn’t have TB. Oh yes, he does have TB. We watch him die of it. No, actually he didn’t die, after all. He shows up back home — alive. He courts Helen. She laughs and runs off. He has lost her. No, actually, she wants to be his girl. We learn that Billy’s parents committed suicide to get life insurance so his crippling malady could be treated. Ah no, that was just a lie told by Johnny Pateenmike. Actually, Billy’s parents tried to drown him as a baby. It was that old ne’er-do-well Johnny himself who saved Billy and stole his mom’s money for the treatment! My head started to spin with the reversals of the reversals.

Ultimately — despite the fine acting (under the direction of James Tripp) — I ended up feeling that what began as a minor masterpiece ended up as a bit of a “mind-feck,” if you’ll pardon the Gaelic GW accent. GW

by Joan Holden

Based on the book Nickel and Dimed: On (Not) Getting By in America

by Barbara Ehrenreich

Directed by Anne James

A comic look at minimum wage America from the inside!

Marquette Theater 6363 St. Charles ave.

BAC

KB

YP

OPU

LAR

SEPTEMBER 8,9,10 at 7:30 p.m. and SEPTEMBER 10 at 2 p.m. $12 General Admission, $7 Students and Senior Citizens

DEM

AND

!

Department of Drama and Speech Artistic Director: Georgia Gresham For more information, call 865-3824.

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������������������� www.bestofneworleans.com | August 30, 2005 | Gambit Weekly

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HUNDREDS OF CDs & DVDs * ALL FOR ONLY $ 10 DVDs

Animal House: DOUBLE SECRET PROBATION EDITION • The Big Lebowski • Donnie Darko • Reservoir Dogs: SPECIAL EDITION Dog Day Afternoon • Ferris Bueller’s Day Off • Grease • Lost in Translation • Ocean’s Eleven • Sunset Boulevard American Graffiti: COLLECTOR’S EDITION • South Park: Bigger, Longer & Uncut • Pretty in Pink • Saturday Night Fever

PLUS MANY MORE!

CDs

Anita Baker My Everything • The Chemical Brothers Singles 93–03 • Eric Clapton Unplugged • Dr. Dre The Chronic Eminem The Marshall Mathers LP • Gipsy Kings The Best of The Gipsy Kings • Green Day International Superhits!

Madonna GHV2 • Snoop Doggy Dogg Doggystyle • The Ramones Loud, Fast, Ramones: Their Toughest Hits

PLUS MANY MORE!

BONUS

Stop by Virgin Megastore and Pre-order Tony Yayo’s Thoughts Of A Predicate Felon and receive a FREE 50 Cent DVD sampler!** 45 minutes of free parking with purchase.

New Orleans • In the French Quarter @ Jax Brewery 620 Decatur Street 504-671-8100

Great Selection. Part of The Complete Collection. * Select titles only. On sale 8/11–9/21. ** While supplies last.

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BEAUTY AND THE BEAST. Slidell Little Theatre, 2024 Nellie Drive, (985) 643-0556; www.slidellslt.org — Slidell Little Theatre presents Disney’s classic musical. Kit McLellan directs Melanie Russell, Derrick Mittlestaedt and others. Tickets $17 general admission, $10 kids 18-under. 8 p.m. Friday, 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday, through Sept. 11.

THE BIBLE: THE COMPLETE WORD OF GOD, ABRIDGED. Minacapelli’s Dinner Playhouse, 1540 Lindberg Drive, (985) 781-6565; minacapellis. com — Minacapelli’s Dinner Playhouse presents a musical by Adam Long, Reed Martin and Austin Tichenor. Rickie Luke stars and directs Rich Lyon and Paul Page. Tickets $35 (includes dinner), $20 (includes desser t). 6:30 p.m. Friday-Saturday, through Sept. 11.

THE DRACULA SPECTACULA. Felicity United Methodist Church, 1816 Chestnut St., 598-3800 — The Summer Stages Children’s Theater presents New Orleans premiere of a musical by John Gardiner and Andrew Parr. Kevin Charpentier directs Randy Maggiore, Janie Planchet and others. Choreography by Nicole Boyd.

Tickets $14 general admission, $8 kids ages 12-under.

7:30 p.m. Friday-Saturday, 3 p.m. Sunday, through Sept. 4.

FLESH AND BLOOD. Southern Rep Theatre, The Shops at Canal Place, 365 Canal St., third floor, (504) 522-6545; www.southernrep.com — Krewe de Sept Productions presents a dark comedy set in the “New South” by Elizabeth Dewberry. Karl Lengel directs Sandy Bravender, Aimée Hayes, Angie Joachim and Jerry Lee Leighton.. $15-$20 admission, Thursday through Saturday, 8 p.m. Sunday, 3 p.m.

Tickets $15-$20. 8 p.m. Thursday-Saturday, through Sept. 18.

SOUTHERN FRIED CHICKIE. True Brew Cafe, 200 Julia St., (504) 524-8440 — True Brew presents a comedy written and performed by Christy McBrayer with music by the “Red Neck Greek Chorus.” Rita Sheffield directs. Tickets $15 general admission, $10 students/seniors/military.

auditions SYMPHONY CHORUS OF NEW ORLEANS AUDITIONS. Loyola University, Music Complex, 365-3056 — The Symphony Chorus of New Orleans holds auditions by appointment in the Music Complex at Loyola University. Visit www.symphonychorus.org for complete details. Call and leave a message at 365-3056 or email EDMBetsy@aol.com to schedule an appointment or to request materials by mail.

cabaret I GET A KICK OUT OF COLE. Le Chat Noir, 715 St. Charles Ave., 581-5812; www.cabaretlechatnoir.com — Le Chat Noir presents a cabaret performance starring Banu Gibson and Ricky Graham about the life and music of Cole Porter. Tickets $25 (includes $5 bar credit). 8 p.m. Thursday.

comedy LE CHAT NOIR. 715 St. Charles Ave., 581-5812; www. cabaretlechatnoir.com — Thursday: Comedy Sportz.

Tickets $8. 11 p.m.; Friday: God’s Been Drinking.

Tickets $8. 11 p.m.; Saturday: Comedy Sportz. Tickets $8. 11 p.m.

MARLENE’S PLACE. 3715 Tchoupitoulas St., 897-3415 — Monday: Comedy Invasion. 9 p.m.

ONE EYED JACKS. 615 Toulouse St., 569-9100; www. oneeyedjacks.net — Wednesday: DTX Stand-Up

I Get a Kick Out of Cole Who needs Kevin Kline and Ashley Judd when you can have Ricky Graham and Banu Gibson? Surely, Graham — voted this week by Gambit Weekly readers as New Orleans’ best local actor — and Gibson — one of our city’s best interpreters of America’s songbook — can bring out the magic of composer and songwriter Cole Porter as well as anyone we can think of. Graham has been his usual busy self, keeping up with his stage performances while also spending his first year as the head of NORD Theater. And while he’s a fixture at Summer Lyric at Tulane, we’re more than a little geeked at the prospect of him returning to the cabaret stage where we can watch him provide his own versions of such Porter classics as “I Get a Kick Out of You,” “De-Lovely” and “Night and Day.” Gibson has one of those mellifluous voices that’s perfect for Porter, who knew his way around a melody, but also brings a sophistication to the material that is rare in this city of belters, shouters, growlers and wailers. (Not that there’s anything wrong with those.) These are two performers in love with Cole Porter, so it’ll be a hoot to see how they bring that reverence to the material. Tickets $25 (includes $5 bar credit). — David Lee Simmons

8 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 1 Le Chat Noir, 715 St. Charles Ave., 581-5812; www.cabaretlechatnoir.com Showcase “Faster Funnyman Kill! Kill! Kill!” featuring Seth Cockfield, John Deal, Wild Bill Dykes, Dane Foshay, Fayard Lindsey, Robert Starnes and Neal Stastny and hosted by Chris Lane. Tickets $5. 10 p.m.

OSWALD’S SPEAKEASY. 1331 Decatur St., 218-5954 — Wednesday-Sunday: “Wise Guy,” a one-man show starring Harry Anderson, accompanied by pianist Gilles Marschall. Tickets $25. 9 p.m.

www.bestofneworleans.com | August 30, 2005 | Gambit Weekly

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WORDS

REVIEW

BY DAV ID LEE SIMMONS

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Word Play

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f the whole books-on-tape phenomenon opened up the possibilities of literature to an audience so starved for a good read that it was willing to listen to it instead, then VERB may well help start another, more modest, literary revolution. More impressively, VERB might better understand the possibilities of a multi-media approach. This “audio literary quarterly,” which becomes available for purchase or download (www.verb. org or www.audible.com) in September, allows authors as diverse as National Award Book Award winner Ha Jin (“In Broad Daylight”) and the late James Dickey (“Wayfarer,” “The Sheep Child”) to read from their works in poetry, fiction and even selections from works not yet released.

That’s the case with Lake Charles native Robert Olen Butler, a former creative-writing professor at McNeese State University who is currently serving as the Francis Eppes Professor at Florida State University. Butler, who won the 1993 Pulitzer Prize in Fiction for A Good Scent From a Strange Mountain, contributed a selection titled “Alvin’s Wild Ride” and taken from his unpublished novel.

The 70-minute, 13,000-word passage concludes the first disc and begins the second and offers the odd opportunity to hear the middle-age Butler providing the voice of his puberty-addled teen hero Alvin, who seems as perplexed by women as Hermie from Herman Raucher’s The Summer of ’42, and as prone to imagined greatness as the titular hero of James Thurber’s “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty.” It’s as hilarious as it is poignant, with Alvin’s daydreams blurring into his everyday life.

Butler opens the piece imagining that he has found himself in the unlikely position of seducing the most beautiful girl in school, Jennifer Platt, on the eve of a post-9/11 nuclear Armageddon at a Youths for Jesus meeting: “And now she sits beside me. Me of all people, with my face breaking out, and my hair geeking around in my head, and her long, daisyblond hair is rippling down her back …. . She’s looking at me now, in a way that she never has. She’s got nobody else.

Her eyes are as blue as the sky that’s about to disappear for a year or so in the nuclear winter, and they’re still wide with how wonked-out she is. These eyes are turning to me for guidance. … God does answer prayer, I can finally testify to that.”

Book-ended by archival recordings by poet Walt Whitman, VERB clearly tries to make a link between the past and future of literature, and it has found no bolder shepherd than publisher-editor Daren Wang. The veteran publicradio producer, based in Atlanta, Ga., is the creative force behind the NPR program Circle of Friends, hosted by actor Cliff Robertson; the 1997 radio documentary series, Porches: The South and Her Writers; 2000’s Between the Lines, a weekly book show co-hosted with Valerie Jackson that featured such luminaries as former President Jimmy Carter and author Alice Walker; and the nationally syndicated program The Spoken Word, which counts Philip Glass and former poet laureate Billy Collins among its many guests. (Gambit Weekly contributor Thomas Bell served as an assistant editor on the project.)

Wang has obviously worked his connections to bring together this wide

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VERB, a two-CD “literary audio quarterly” that features works by Robert Olen Butler, Ha Jin, Tom Franklin and the late James Dickey, brings a whole new meaning to spoken word.

range of authors. One of the benefits is the creation of a new spoken-word template with the pairing of poets Thomas Lux (Split Horizon) and National Book Award winner Stuart Dybek (Waiting); the latter debuts a musical response to the last of Lux’s five read poems, “My Malaria,” for which Dybek has been trying to find an appropriate forum for 25 years.

For something as potentially breezy as an audio literary quarterly might seem, with its relatively short-length works (minus Butler’s rather bulky contribution) that could fit snugly into a rush-hour jaunt, VERB seems at its best when writers explore darker themes. Ha Jin’s 23-minute “In Broad Daylight” — a sort-of Chinese hybrid of Shirley Jackson’s “The Lottery” and Nathaniel Hawthorne’s The Scarlet Letter read with a cold eloquence

by Jennifer Deer — exposes the hypocrisy of Mao-era villagers hell-bent on punishing a woman charged with several counts of adultery. Tom Franklin’s 15-minute “Smonk Gets Out Alive,” is a brooding, Gothic look at what sounds like the meanest old cuss around defying a small town to mete out its own justice for his lifetime of transgressions. Hearing these tales conjures just as many images while riding down the highway as it might while holed up in a coffee shop, about as telling a testament to VERB’s quality as I can think of.

Not all of the writing jumps off the disc, unfortunately. The decided weak link of the collection comes from Marjory Wentworth, the poet laureate of South Carolina, whose six poems lack much in the way of revelation or compelling imagery. They sound more like goodintentioned ideas than anything shaped or cultivated.

But this is a small misstep in an otherwise impressive debut of an idea that could have sailed on its novelty alone.

This first VERB will have readers eagerly awaiting the next quarter’s release, which is scheduled for a December GW release — and download. GW

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All Saints Day: A New Orleans Football Fairy Tale “A losing team. A desperate owner. A football-loving pope. And a kicker who looks like Jesus.” So goes the sales pitch for New Orleans native Sean Patrick Doles’ All Saints Day: A New Orleans Football Fairy Tale. (We’re going to just say right now that while we haven’t yet read the book, if the story involves a legitimate Super Bowl run, “fairy tale” may be an understatement.)

Doles’ story centers around the leg of Saints placekicker Oleg (get it?) Abramowicz, whose near-death after a particularly painful attempted tackle brings a visit from the pope that actually starts to turn things around for his winless team at midseason.

The team’s miraculous turnaround doesn’t deter an evil owner from trying to relocate the team outside the Crescent City. (No, the owner’s name isn’t Dom Henson.) It’s all in service of the upcoming season that will indeed be played under the dual shadow of frustration with Coach Jim Haslett and worries that real-life Saints owner Tom Benson and Gov. Kathleen Blanco can’t reach a deal to prevent the nightmare scenario from unfolding.

Here’s to a sweet kickoff for author and owner alike. — David Lee Simmons

5 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 1 Beaucoup Books, 3951 Magazine St., 895-2663; www.beaucoupbooks.com 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, Sept. 3 Crescent City Farmers Market, 700 Magazine St., 861-5898; www.crescentcityfarmersmarket.org

Tuesday 30 AFRICAN-AMERICAN AUTHORS READING GROUP. Facilitator’s Home, 1827 Terpsichore St., 598-3677; www.lyceumproject.com — The African-American Authors Reading Group discusses James Baldwin’s stories “The Rockpile,” “The Outing” and “Going to Meet the Man.” Moderated by Drew Chastain.

Contact him at 920-8784 or chastain@tulane.edu.

7 p.m. to 9 p.m.

JAZZ & POETRY NIGHT. Sweet Lorraine’s, 1931 St. Claude Ave., 945-9654 — Weekly jazz and poetry night. 9 p.m.

Wednesday 31 CHAMELEONS POETRY NIGHT. Chameleons Day Spa Cafe & Coffee, 811 S. Clark St., 486-0929 — Weekly open-mic poetry night hosted by Kenneth Plaisance. 8 p.m.

POETRY FORUM WORKSHOP. Poetry Forum, 257 Bonnabel Blvd., Metairie, 835-8472 or 467-9034 — The New Orleans Poetry Forum hosts a weekly workshop. 8 p.m.

TAO POETRY OPEN MIC. Neutral Ground Coffee House, 5110 Danneel St., 891-3381 — Open-mic poetry reading, 9 p.m. 891-3381.

Thursday 1 17 POETS OPEN MIC. Gold Mine Saloon, 701 Dauphine St., 586-0745; www.17poets.com — Weekly series with featured poets Peter Crow and Gina Ferrara. Open mic to follow. Poets, storytellers, dancers, musicians, puppeteers and others are invited to share their art. Hosted by Dave Brinks.

Free admission. 8 p.m.

CUNNI’LANGUAGE. VooBrew Coffee & Tea, 830 N. Rampart St., 324-6420 — Thais Mills hosts a weekly open-mic alternative. 8:30 p.m.

SEAN PATRICK DOLES. Beaucoup Books, 3951 Magazine St., 895-2663; www.beaucoupbooks.com — The author reads from and signs All Saints Day: A New Orleans Football Fairy Tale. 5 p.m.

Friday 2 TRUE BREW OPEN MIC. True Brew Cafe, 200 Julia

St., 524-8440 — Pozazz Productions presents an open-mic night. Call 481-2127 for more information.

11 p.m.

Saturday 3 SEAN PATRICK DOLES. Crescent City Farmers Market, 700 Magazine St., 861-5898; www.crescentcityfarmersmarket.org — The author signs All Saints Day: A New Orleans Football Fairy Tale at the Uptown Crescent City Farmer’s Market. 8 a.m. to noon.

SPEAKEASY READING SERIES. Handsome Willy’s, 218 S. Robertson St., 525-0377 — Handsome Willy’s hosts a reading series with featured writers. 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.

WRITING WORKSHOP. PJ’s Coffee & Tea, 5432 Magazine St., 430-3443 — Weekly writing workshops deal with various written forms including novels, short stories, essays and more. Contact Mike at 430-3443 or mikefeigin@bellsouth.net for details. 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Sunday 4 MAPLE LEAF READINGS. Maple Leaf Bar, 8316 Oak St., 866-9359 — Maple Leaf Bar hosts the weekly Everette Maddox Memorial Poetry and Prose Reading Series featuring readings by local writers. 3 p.m.

OPEN-MIC POETRY NIGHT. Ebony Square Meeting and Cultural Center, 4215 Magazine St., 615-0327 — Open-mic poetry reading with Wize Wordz every Sunday. Admission $5. 9:30 p.m.

Monday 5 BETWEEN THE LINES OPEN MIC. The Line, 2029 N. Claiborne Ave., 813-1124 — Between the Lines presents a weekly open-mic night. 8 p.m.

DA VENT OPEN MIC. Polynesian Joe’s, 869 Magazine St., 236-5871 — Da Vent weekly open-mic night.

8 p.m.

THE HOLLOW CROWN DISCUSSION GROUP. Facilitator’s Residence, 1101 Third St., 270-6289; www.lyceumproject.com — Weekly reading and discussion group focuses on Shakespeare’s history plays and the political philosophy of kingship. Contact the facilitator, Robin, at tyronefielding@hotmail.com for specific reading topics. $5 per session. 7 p.m. to 9

Volunteer at CASA New Orleans, 504-522-1962 www.bestofneworleans.com | August 30, 2005 | Gambit Weekly

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THE PRO BONO PROJECT SEVENTEENTH ANNUAL

Justice for All Ball FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 9, 2005 GALLIER HALL 8 ’TIL MIDNITE

MUSIC BY HENRY BUTLER AND THE GAME BAND BLACK TIE PREFERRED COMPLIMENTARY PARKING AT POYDRAS CENTER (CAMP AND POYDRAS)

Enjoy fine cuisine by 201 Restaurant & Bar Acme Oyster House Bally's Casino Bombay Club Byblos Restaurant GW Fins / ZydeQue Restaurants Herbsaint Restaurant Hyatt Regency New Orleans K-Paul’s Louisiana Kitchen LaCote Brasserie

Le Pavillon Hotel Martin Wine Cellar Mike Anderson's Seafood Mother's Next Door Muriel's Jackson Square New City Diner New Orleans Marriott Partysist Pigéon Caterers PJ's Coffee - Clearview Mall

Ralph's on the Park Restaurant August Roth's Steak Knife Smith & Wollensky Restaurant Southern Candymakers The Besh Steakhouse The Bistro @ The Maison de Ville The Marigny Brasserie Vega Tapas Café & Catering

Great raffle prizes and special auction For tickets call 581-3480 • www.probono-no. org

EVENTS family

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BACK TO SCHOOL IN THE GARDEN. Longue Vue House and Gardens, 7 Bamboo Road, 488-5488; www.longuevue.com — Children ages 18 months to 3 years explore the gardens, paint with plants, make books, dig for worms and more. Admission $60 members, $70 non-members; $50 additional siblings, $5 additional adult. 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

THURSDAY 1 TODDLER TIME. Louisiana Children’s Museum, 420 Julia St., 523-1357; www.lcm.org — Children up to age 3 enjoy a special story time and related craft every Thursday.

Free with regular museum admission of $7. 10 a.m.

FRIDAY 2 SOCK HOP. Knights of Columbus Hall, 6254 Vicksburg St., 486-9819 — The local Knights of Columbus host sock-hop party with DJ, food and more for ages 11-14. Email kcsockhop@aol.com for more info.

Admission $10. 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.

SATURDAY 3 AQUARIUM CELEBRATES 15TH BIRTHDAY. Audubon Aquarium of the Americas, 1 Canal St., 565-3033; www.auduboninstitute.org — Visitors during Labor Day weekend will have fun with arts and crafts, partake in a scavenger hunt and participate in a trivia game. Admission $16 for adults, $9.50 for children and $13 for seniors. Saturday-Monday.

STORIES, SONGS AND SUNSHINE. Maple Street Book Shop, 7523 Maple St., 866-4916; www.maplestreetbookshop.com — Event will feature popular children’s entertainer, Miss Bonnie. Free admission. 11 a.m.

ROYAL HAWAIIAN ALOHA . Children’s Castle, 501 Williams Blvd., Kenner, 468-7231 — Storyteller Dianne de Las Casas entertains with adventures, hula and Polynesian dancing. Admission $3.50 adults and children. 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.

events TUESDAY 30 BUSINESS PLAN WRITING SEMINAR. 1600 Canal St., Suite 620 — Attendees will learn the details of writing a business plan for help in financing, buying an existing business or starting a business. $30 fee.

9 a.m. to noon. Call 539-9292 to register.

COOL COCKTAILS AND FABULOUS FONDUE. Martin Wine Cellar Deli and Catering, 714 Elmeer Ave., Metairie, 896-7350 — Reception-style tasting features cocktails complimented by sweet and savory fondues prepared

by Martin’s chefs. Admission $20 per person. 6:30 p.m.

WEDNESDAY 31 ENGINEERS WITHOUT BORDERS FUNDRAISER. Carrollton Station, 8140 Willow St., 865-9190 — The event will feature live music from Susan Cowsill, Pete Winkler and Mike Blum from Motorway, the Craig Caliva Band, Dana Abbott and more, plus sales to benefit the organization. $5 cover. 9 p.m.

THURSDAY 1 GALLERY TALK. New Orleans Museum of Art, City Park, 1 Collins Diboll Circle, 483-2316; www.noma. org — Meet the artists of current 2005 Triennial exhibit, who will discuss their work and technique in printmaking. Free with museum admission. 6 p.m.

ARGENTINE TANGO. Ebony Square, 4215 Magazine St., 343-2406 — Free introductory class to learn tango dancing. 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. class, 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. open dance.

MCCOY TYNER. Contemporary Arts Center, 900 Camp St., 528-3805; www.cacno.org — The jazz pianist-composer performs live with his trio. Tickets $25 general admission, $20 for CAC members/students/seniors. 7 p.m. and 9 p.m.

PLAYING WITH THE SOLO VOICE. McKeown’s Books, 4737 Tchoupitoulas St., 309-0629 — Facilitator Anne Armentrout leads workshop drawing on local history, legends and lore as a writer, actor and audience to creGambit Weekly | August 30, 2005 | www.bestofneworleans.com

BE THERE

WEDNESDAY 31

HISTORY HAYRIDE. Fontainebleau State Park, 67825 Hwy. 190, Mandeville, (888) 677-3668 — Visitors can ride a hay wagon during a historical tour of the park. Registration required. Admission $2.50 per vehicle up to four passengers, 50 cents each additional passenger. 1 p.m.

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LISTINGS

23rd Annual Southwest Louisiana Zydeco Music Festival

For nearly a quarter century, a former soybean field near Plaisance has served as zydeco’s proving ground. This is where an ailing Clifton Chenier once played “I’m Coming Home” in a farewell to fans, and where Beau Jocque and Boozoo Chavis plotted their next musical sorties. Considering the often-punishing heat and the general lack of shade, it’s also a proving ground for the most committed zydeco dancers (tarps and tents are encouraged). This year, performers include some of the best of zydeco’s current crop, including Curley Taylor & Zydeco Trouble, Chris Ardoin (pictured) and NuStep, J. Paul & the Zydeco Nubreedz, and Step Rideau & the Zydeco Outlaws. Louisiana Folk Roots is sponsoring workshops on the smaller Heritage Stage — don’t miss the demonstration of juré, the a cappella spiritual tradition that preceded modern zydeco and helped shape its sound. The official kick-off dance is 9 p.m. Friday at Slim’s Y-KiKi in Opelousas (admission $8) and the main stage music starts mid-morning Saturday and lasts until 10 p.m. or so. Admission to Zydeco Fest is $10 ($2 for kids 12 years old and under). Maps to the site are available at www.zydeco. org. — Michael Tisserand

Saturday, Sept. 3 A field near Plaisance, (337) 942-2393; www.zydeco.org ate a monologue. Fee $50 with pre-registration, $60 registration at class for five sessions. 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.

PUBLIC FORUM. Lions Club, 2001 18th St., Kenner, 861-5592 — The non-partisan Alliance for Good Government holds forum to cover candidates in Jefferson Parish races for court of appeals, school board and Kenner City Council. Free admission. 7 pm.

JEREMY DAVENPORT CD-RELEASE PARTY. RitzCarlton Hotel, FQB Bar, 921 Canal St., 524-1331 — Celebrated local jazz crooner performs as part of CD-launch party. Free admission. 8 p.m.

FRIDAY 2 FIRST FRIDAY SOIREE. Private residence, 2652 Cupid St., Algiers, 309-0629 — Evening of entertainment and enlightenment, food and conversation in the spirit of French salons. Free admission. 7 p.m.

FRIDAY NIGHT CHESS CLUB. Puccino’s Coffee House, Magazine and 9th streets, 240-2228 — Local players compete in four (G/20, non-rated) rounds every Friday.

Price $10 adults, $5 players ages 16-under. 7:30 p.m.

BIG EASY ROLLERGIRLS FUNDRAISER. TwiRoPa, 1544 Tchoupitoulas St., 587-3777; www. bigeasyrollergirls.com — Benefit to help raise money to develop New Orleans’ first roller derby league. Live music by Suplecs, Die Rotzz, Kondor and Tuff Luvs, plus Rollergirls on skates, a raffle for donated prizes and more. Admission $7. 8 p.m.

GYPSY’S CAFE. Gypsy’s Cafe, 709 St. Charles Ave., 5289008 — Belly dancing every Friday, 8 p.m. to 10 p.m.

[EVENTS] LISTINGS

DIVAS OF DECADENCE. TwiRoPa, 1544 Tchoupitoulas St., 587-3777 — The party will benefit the United Services for AIDS Foundation and will feature entertainment and an open bar. Free shuttles will run from the French Quarter every half hour. Tickets $69 in advance, $75 at the door. 9 p.m. to 2 a.m.

SATURDAY 3 CAT AND KITTEN ADOPTION DAY. Happy Tails Adoption Center, 4021 Jefferson Hwy., Jefferson, 482-1890 — Volunteer-based humane organization SpayMart offers felines for adoption. All animals are sterilized, vaccinated, wormed, tested for feline leukemia/FIV and are micro-chipped. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

POWWOW. Cannes Brulee Native American Center, 303 Williams Blvd., Kenner, 468-7231, ext. 220 — Annual powwow celebrates Native American culture through dance and song, food, storytelling, crafts, music and more. Lawn chairs and blankets welcome. Admission $5 adults, $3 children and seniors. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

DANCE MEDITATION CLASS. Fair Grinds Coffeehouse (upstairs), 3133 Ponce De Leon St., 948-3222 — The class will teach exploratory movement, deep stretching and focused breathing. No dance experience necessary. Bring a yoga mat or blanket. Fee $10 per person. Noon to 1:30 p.m.

SUNDAY 4 PATH FINDING MEETINGS. Fair Grinds Coffeehouse, 3133 Ponce De Leon St., 948-3222 — Weekly dialogue exploring common truths from modern science and ancient wisdom, including Aramaic-based research.

Contact Bob Maurice at triversity@aol.com for details. New members welcome. 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

road trip THURSDAY 1 DWIGHT YOAKAM. L’Auberge du Lac Hotel and Casino, 777 Avenue L’Auberge, Lake Charles, (866) 580-7444; www.ldlcasino.com — Country music star performs concert. Tickets $30 and $55. 8 p.m. Thursday, 9 p.m. Friday.

FRIDAY 2 COUNTRY MUSIC LEGENDS FEST. Casino Magic, 711 Casino Magic Drive, Bay St. Louis, Miss., (800) 5624425; www.casinomagic.com — Janie Fricke, Mel McDaniel, Gene Watson, Jon Conlee and Ray Price perform live. Tickets $19.95. 9 p.m.

SUNDAY 4 HORSE SHOW. Houma Airbase Arena, 221 Moffet Road, Houma, (985) 594-5656 — Show sponsored

by Terrebonne Livestock Association features many judged equestrian events. Refreshments and concessions available. Free admission. 9 a.m.

BEYOND FOLK ART. The Terrebonne Museum, 1208 Museum Drive, Houma, (985) 851-0154 — Display of acrylics on canvas by Paula Lapeyrouse. Free admission. 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

ST. STANISLAUS SCHOOL FUNDRAISER. OLG Community Center Fair Grounds, 204 S. Beach Blvd., Bay St. Louis, Miss., (228) 467-9057, ext. 226 — School holds event to support its capital campaign, featuring barbecue dinner, live music with headliners the Molly Ringwalds, fireworks on the beach and more. Admission $15 music only, $30 concert plus beef or tuna steak dinner; free for pre-school children. 6:30 p.m. to 11 p.m.

MONDAY 5 BATON ROUGE CONCERT BAND. Louisiana State Capitol Building, Capitol Drive, Baton Rouge, (225) 928-4193; www.batonrougeconcertband.org— Bring a folding chair or a blanket to enjoy the band performing marches, patriotic numbers, light classics and popular favorites conducted by Sheily Bell. Free admission. 7 p.m.

CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS VOLUNTEER MEETING. Crosby Arboretum, 370 Ridge Road, Picayune, Miss., (601) 799-2311 — Meeting for current and potential volunteers for regional arboretum run by Mississippi State University. Come prepared to work if weather permits. Free admission. 9 a.m.

Submit listings information to listingsedit@gamb itweekly.com or fax to (504) 483-3116. Deadline for submission is noon Tuesday. Print listings are edited for space; visit www.bestofneworleans.com for expanded listings. www.bestofneworleans.com | August 30, 2005 | Gambit Weekly

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CUISINE

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P U T T ING EV ERY T HING ON T HE TABLE

REVIEW

FOOD NEWS Through the Grapevine

Changing of the Guard

New Orleans, living large as one of the planet’s top dining destinations, recently raised the bar a notch with announcements that the city would host a pair of world-class wineand-food events annually. Carnivale du Vin, held Oct. 28-29, an Emeril Lagasse Foundation benefit, showcases renowned chefs and premium wines at vintner dinners, including a gala evening capped by a masquerade ball. Tickets are $1,000 per person. Visit www.emeril.org for more information. Also, the Grand Cru Summit, held Feb. 9-12, 2006 — a Viking Range Corporation signature event — features more than a dozen of the world’s top chefs, outstanding wines, celebrated authors and educators in the culinary and wine world, in tastings, seminars, wine dinners and other premier programs. Attendance (at $2,500. per person) is by invitation only. The event benefits Culinary Institute of America scholarships.

No matter who’s in the kitchen at GAUTREAU’S, the result remains the same: excellent.

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The Beef Up Front When Mike Ditka attempted his own masculine steak-andseafood restaurant in New Orleans — remember those days?

— he may have been borrowing a page from the playbook of a much more successful NFL coach-turned-restaurateur: Don Shula. The former Colts and Dolphins head coach and Hall of Famer has become a wildly successful businessman and will open his 27th restaurant when Don Shula’s Steak House opens inside the JW Marriott Hotel New Orleans (614 Canal St., 525-6500) this November. Shula’s dining empire includes restaurants with themes for upscale, beach-side and sportsbar diners. The Steak House in New Orleans will be in keeping with Shula’s recreation of his perfect 1972 Super Bowl season with the Dolphins, in which the hand-painted menu is featured on genuine NFL footballs. And if you can finish his 48-oz. Porterhouse, you join the other 27,000 members of an elite club.

P R IC E

hen I recall the best meals that I’ve eaten, I don’t necessarily remember a specific dish.

The unforgettable meals were those rare occasions when everything — food, service, atmosphere — fell effortlessly into place. I left the table with a glow of satisfaction that couldn’t be accounted for by alcohol alone. Gautreau’s achieves this near-perfect balance every time I eat there.

Gautreau’s is a restaurant of contradictions. Located on an Uptown residential street, it almost tries to remain hidden. Once guests find the restaurant, however, it doesn’t make them feel like they have intruded on an exclusive club. Gautreau’s feels more like a culinary institution than a platform for high-profile chefs. Yet some of New Orleans’ most prominent chefs — including Richard Benz of Dick and Jenny’s, and John Harris of Lilette — have passed through its kitchen. The most recent chef to depart Gautreau’s is Mathias Wolf. Last year, Wolf became the second chef at Gautreau’s to be honored in Food & Wine’s “Best New Chefs” issue. This summer, he handed over the kitchen to his sous chef, Sue Zemanick. Chef Zemanick hails from Pennsylvania and was trained at the prestigious Culinary Institute of America in Upstate New York.

Gautreau’s, true to form, never faltered or slipped during the transition. I ate several meals there this summer with both Chef Wolf and Chef Zemanick in the kitchen, and the restaurant always had the polish and confidence that I’ve come to expect at Gautreau’s.

Driving down Soniat Street, it would be easy to overlook Gautreau’s. No sign marks the restaurant. Vines and foliage further obscure the former neighborhood pharmacy. As you approach, the warm glow of light can be seen from the sidewalk. When the maitre d’ swings open the door, it’s like discovering a secret hideaway. The room is cozy with wine-red walls, a pressed tin ceiling and cool jazz — Chet Baker or early Miles Davis — playing in the background.

I can never resist ordering a pre-dinner cocktail at Gautreau’s. The atmosphere, suffused with golden light and filled with the murmur of conversations, encourages a relaxed pace. The menus are never slapped on the table moments after customers are seated; the wait staff allows you a few minutes to sip your drink and settle into the restaurant.

The first time I ate at Gautreau’s after Chef Zemanick took over the kitchen, I assumed that the new menu was just a seasonal update. A few dishes were held over, such as the popular duck confit appetizer and the filet with bordelaise sauce. The new items followed the same refined American interpretation of French cuisine that I had encountered on previous occasions. The quality of each dish never wavered, and I would never have guessed that anything had changed from when I ate at the restaurant a few weeks before.

WHAT:

Gautreau’s CUISINE:

Louisiana Contemporary WHERE:

1728 Soniat St., 899-7397; www.gautreaus.net WHEN:

Dinner Monday through Saturday HOW:

Credit cards PRICE:

GAUTREAU’S Chef Sue Zemanick, the former sous chef, took over for the departed Mathias

Market Watch

Wolf this summer and

The Crescent City Farmers Market (700 Magazine St., 861-5958) gets into the spirit of football season on Sept. 3 with the appearance of author Sean Doles signing copies of his new book, All Saints Day: A New Orleans Football Fairy Tale.

Also appearing: meat vendor Jim McLeod grilling fresh vegetables and meat. The market runs from 8 a.m. to noon. Visit www.crescentcityfarmersmarket.org for more info.

hasn’t skipped a beat.

P H O T O BY C H E R YL G E R B E R

$$$

RESERVATIONS:

Toys in the Kitchen?

Recommended

Everything that Chef Zemanick cooks shows an easy, self-assured mastery. Starting with the appetizers, I was impressed by the wedge of crisp pork belly over polenta with warm bing cherry compote on the side. Another delicious appetizer, scoops of brandade, traditionally a Provencal dip made with salt cod, were breaded and fried like crab cakes. Steamed mussels in buttery wine sauce can be found on several menus around town, but Gautreau’s version uses such pristine mussels that it stands above the rest.

Chef Zemanick’s new appetizer of horseradish-beet cured salmon captures Gautreau’s style of classic flavors with innovations that are neither jarring nor radical. The plate looks like a blooming flower: in the center, a potato cake is circled by ring of creme fraiche and surrounded by petal-like slices of salmon tinted red on the edges. The beets primarily add color to the salmon while the fresh horseradish gives it an undertone of sharp flavor.

The duck breast entree was perfectly cooked and accompanied by a wonderful risotto made with Manchego cheese and, surprisingly, cashews. The halibut entree, with a snowy topping of crushed macadamias, also showed an unusual use of nuts. The excellent fish was served on a bed of fresh peas, crisp spaetzle and a Champagne beurre blanc.

I was impressed with nearly everything I tasted at Gautreau’s, but Chef Zemanick truly excels with her fish offerings. Along with the halibut, the sauteed snapper with fennel, clams and caper berries was outstanding.

Although an entire stick of butter might have been used in the shellfish emulsion sauce, everything surrounding the fish supported it rather than overwhelmed it.

One wall of Gautreau’s looks toward the past with a collection of old photos of New Orleans. The opposite wall is covered with a restaurant’s equivalent of a trophy case: glowing reviews, articles from national magazines, and prizes for past chefs. Judging by the meals I ate at Gautreau’s, Chef Zemanick will be adding a few awards GW of her own to that wall of accolades. GW

The Southern Food & Beverage Museum (SoFAB) wants to play with your toys — culinary, that is. SoFAB, which already has two ongoing exhibits, plans to launch an exhibit on culinary toys at Mardi Gras World in November and is seeking submissions. We’re talking anything from a well-worn apron to an antiquated tea set. For more info, email SoFAB at info@southernfood.org.

Reopening Pampy’s Creole Kitchen (2005 N. Broad St., 949-7970), along with many of New Orleans’ other busy restaurants, has taken a few weeks off in August, but not just for vacation. The restaurant spent two weeks renovating its space and hopes to reopen on Monday, Aug. 29. — Brenda Maitland and David Lee Simmons

Send any food news to gambitfood@mac.com.

WINE OF THE WEEK 2003 Borsao Tres Picos Garnacha Spain / $11-$14 Retail

The slopes of the Moncayo Mountains along the lower Ebro River are home to the 55year old vineyards that produce the grapes for this palate-pleasing wine. Located near Borja in the Zaragoza province south of more famous Rioja region, the winery combines low yields per acre with modern winemaking techniques in this wonderfully worthy, fantastic find. Earth- and plum-scented, the wine offers luscious red berry fruit without the cloying, candied effect often associated with the grape in lesser wines, with strawberry, cranberry and raspberry flavors predominating. Good with tapas, roasted meats, fowl, and cheese Where to buy it: Cork & Bottle, Martin Wine Cellars, Whole Foods Market (Metairie location), Acquistapace’s Covington Super Market and Hugh’s Wine Cellar in Mandeville Where to drink it: Vega Tapas Cafe and Mimi’s in the Marigny. (Listings current at press time.) — Brenda Maitland Questions? Email winediva1@ earthlink.net.

www.bestofneworleans.com | August 30, 2005 | Gambit Weekly

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OUT 2 EAT YOU ARE WHAT YOU EAT

Out to Eat is an index of Gambit Weekly contract advertisers. Unless noted, addresses are for New Orleans.

Dollar signs represent the average cost of a dinner entree: $ — under $10; $$ — $11 to $20; $$$ — $21 or more.

African

Exotic offerings from the continent BENNACHIN — 1212 Royal St., 522-1230 — Enjoy oven-baked lamb cooked with an apricot baste and served over cous cous or rice and broccoli. Lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $$

American

Much more than just burgers, not exactly diners BIENVILLE’S BAY BUFFET — 711 Casino Magic Drive, Bay St. Louis, (228) 388-9830 — Seafood is served nightly, including boiled shrimp and Jonah crab claws. Also try hand-carved meats, pasta dishes, pizzas, Asian cuisine and much more.

Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. $$ CAFE MAGIC & BAKERY — 711 Casino Magic Drive, Bay St. Louis,(228) 388-9830 — Sample the fresh pastries, tuna-salad croissants, personal pizzas, hamburgers, coffee selection, ice cream and more. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. $ HUEY’S 24/7 DINER — 200 Magazine St., 598-4839 — Huey’s serves breakfast 24 hours, plus burgers, sandwiches, and oversized malts and shakes. The Kingfish burger features two half-pound patties and cheddar and Jack cheeses on a brioche bun. Open 24 hours. Credit cards. $ JOURDAN RIVER GRILLE — 711 Casino Magic Drive, Bay St. Louis, (228) 388-9830 — This casino eatery offers casual dining with waterfront views and specializes in All-American cuisine. Menu incorporates New Orleans touches and “true Southern cooking.” Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily; latenight Fri.-Sun. $ SUBWAY — 237 N. Peters St. 568-0169 — On-the-go diners have easy access to this wildly popular chain of often healthful sandwiches. But then there’s the French Quarter location, which is under new ownership and, along with old favorites like the classic BMT sub, offers delivery and serves Blue Bell ice cream. Lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $

American Contemporary Where fusion takes familiar ingredients

BAYONA — 430 Dauphine St., 525-4455 — In a 200-year-

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old Creole cottage in the French Quarter, Chef Susan Spicer prepares innovative cuisine along with signature dishes. Menu includes garlic soup and grilled shrimp and black bean cake with coriander sauce. Lunch weekdays; dinner Mon.-Sat. Credit cards. $$$

Bar & Grill

The essence of the Lowlands

BALCONY BAR & CAFE — 3201 Magazine St., 891-1225 — Balcony Bar & Cafe’s 50 draft beers and 13 by the bottle are just a set-up for a kitchen that serves up half-pound burgers, pizzas, appetizers, salads and wraps, calzones and desserts.

Dinner and late-night daily. Credit cards. $

CLEMENTINE’S BELGIAN BISTROT — 2505 Whitney Ave., Gretna, 366-3995 — Clementine Desmet’s house specialties include four types of mussels served right in the pot. Other dishes include fondues, escargot, steaks and crepes. Lunch and dinner Tue.-Sat. Credit cards. $$

BRIDGES CLUBHOUSE GRILL — 711 Casino Magic Drive, Bay St. Louis, (228) 388-9830 — Menu items include grilled chicken salads, soups of the day, half-pound hamburgers and more. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily; hours seasonal with golf course. $

Homebrew matched with contemporary eats

CARROLLTON STATION BAR & GRILL — 8140 Willow St., 8659190 — Carrollton Station’s menu features everything from Bakers, the house’s jumbo stuffed baked potatoes, to Phillies, its famous philly cheesesteaks in four varieties. Lunch, dinner and late-night daily. Credit cards. $

BOMBAY CLUB — 830 Conti St., 586-0972 — Executive Chef Nick Gile serves such dishes as Duck Duet with a blackberry reduction, the Bombay filet with Stilton cheese and the Creole mustard-soaked pork loin. Dinner daily; late-night Thu.-Sat. Credit cards. $$

FRANK’S MARINA GRILLE — 100 Marina Del Ray Drive, Madisonville, (985) 792-4000 — From its perch on the waterfront, Frank’s menu includes the Mighty River Burger; an oyster, bacon and Swiss cheese poboy; grilled tuna; shrimp; chicken; salads; gumbo; hot wings; and bread pudding. Lunch and dinner Wed.-Sun. Credit cards. $

JUNIPER — 115 Gerard St., Mandeville,(985) 624-5330 — The blackened rib-eye is a 12- or 14-oz. steak topped with tobacco onions and finished with a stilton cheese au poivre. The seared salmon features fresh Atlantic salmon served over fried asparagus and topped with a crawfish Maltaise sauce. Lunch Tue.-Fri., dinner Tue.-Sat. Credit cards. $$

FRIAR TUCK’S — 5130 Freret St., 891-4080 — Burgers and sandwiches such as the Philly cheese steak abound; wraps include the chicken Caesar and Southwest chicken. Pub grub means waffle fries, chicken wings, burritos, nachos, quesadillas and more. Dinner and late-night daily. Credit cards. $

LA LOUISIANE BAR AND BISTRO — 725 Iberville St., 387-8200 — La Louisiane has recalibrated itself for a contemporary feel. The food maintains its finesse with such offerings as the Colorado lamb braised in a tomato-based broth with a hint of orange zest, served over pan-crisped polenta. Lunch Tue.-Fri., dinner daily. Credit cards. $$ ONE — 8132 Hampson St., 301-9061 — Start with the crispy lobster and foie gras wonton with shiitake mushroom and water chestnut ragout; move on to the coq au vin and savory bread pudding with carrots and green beans. Dinner Mon.-Sat. Credit cards. $$ VICTOR’S GRILL — The Ritz-Carlton, 921 Canal St., 524-1331 — Victor’s features a menu complete with steaks, lamb, veal, chicken and fresh Louisiana seafood. Select a salad or seasonal appetizer before ordering from the grill. Breakfast daily; dinner Tue.-Sat. Credit cards. $$$

Belgian

Where food tastes better in a pair of blue jeans

LAFAYETTE SPORTS CLUB — 628 St. Charles Ave., 410CLUB — This sports bar and grill boasts 12 TVs and a menu featuring entrees such as the fire-roasted shrimp with roasted corn and adobe salsa, all in a chipotle wrap. A raw seafood bar is available until 12:30 p.m. Lunch and dinner daily.

Credit cards. $$ SHOOTERS BAR & GRILL — 655 18th St., Metairie, 456-2618 — Shooters offers late-night eats, burgers. fries, pizza and more. Check out regular live music and Latin night. Lunch, dinner and late-night daily. Credit cards. $ TYLER’S BEER GARDEN — 3841 Orleans Ave., 482-7207 — The kitchen is open until 6 a.m. every day and offers, among other things, pizzas whose dough is made on the premises. Twentyfive-cent grilled oysters are offered from 5-11 p.m. daily. Lunch, dinner and late-night daily. Credit cards. $

Brewpub

CRESCENT CITY BREWHOUSE — 527 Decatur St., 522-0571 — Savor the grilled fresh ahi tuna topped with grilled shrimp or the double-cut pork chop stuffed with shrimp and asiago cheese. Balcony and courtyard dining available; live jazz featured nightly. Lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $$ ZEA ROTISSERIE AND BREWERY — 4450 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 780-9090 — Start with a salad of fresh leaf spinach with sun-dried tomatoes, raisins, roasted pecans, sesame seeds, kalamata olives, blue cheese, and a pepper jelly vinaigrette. Carnivores can chew on Thai ribs. Lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $$

Burgers

All-American, all-beef, all day FATBURGER — 620 Decatur St., 598-3914 — Burgers include the Fatburger, the Kingburger, the Turkeyburger and the “Baby Fat.” Choose from other sandwiches and a variety of sides, and top it all off with a milkshake. Lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $

Cafe

Soup, sandwich, espresso BLUEBIRD CAFE — 3625 Prytania St., 895-7166 — Buildyour-own omelettes, sausage sandwiches and leafy salads are favorites at this casual breakfast and lunch nest. Breakfast and lunch daily. Checks and cash only. $ BROKEN EGG CAFE — 200 Gerard St., Mandeville, (985) 6243388 — The menu of this popular Northshore eatery includes omelettes, bananas Foster French toast, pancakes, Belgian waffles and a chef-created soup daily. Breakfast and lunch daily. Credit cards. $

Bagels

Pork, beef and chicken, smoked over a pit

CAFE SATORA — 3749 N. Causeway Blvd., Ste. C, 832-1444 — The bestseller club panini is a grilled chicken breast on focaccia bread with tomatoes, bacon, red onions, avocado, mozarella and special dressing. Breakfast and lunch Mon.-Sat. Credit cards, checks. $

NEW YORK BAGEL — 3923 Magazine St., 371-5982 — The New Yorker places Nova Lox (smoked salmon), cream cheese, and finely shredded red onions and capers on your choice of fresh bagels. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $

ABITA BARBEQUE — 69399 Hwy. 59, Abita Springs, (985) 8920205 — This Northshore spot offers a popular array of falloff-the-bone barbecue, slathered with its unique, homemade barbecue sauce with a little kick but not too spicy. Lunch and dinner Mon.-Sat., lunch Sun. Credit cards and checks. $

FORTISSIMO DELI — 3331 St. Charles Ave. 899-5313 — Try the oysters Fortissimo: crispy fried oysters on a bed of sauteed spinach topped with melted smoked Gruyere cheese and served with French bread garlic croustades. Lunch and dinner Mon.-Sat., brunch Sun. Credit cards. $

Round and boiled with a hole in the middle

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Barbecue

FROOTS — 5250 Jefferson Hwy., Harahan, 733-3401 — Froots serves smoothies, salads and wraps, including the Caesar Fever Wrap: a tortilla wrap surrounding a chicken breast, Romaine lettuce, Caesar dressing and tomatoes.. Breakfast and dinner Mon.-Fri., lunch daily. Credit cards. $ RICCOBONO’S PANOLA STREET CAFE — 7801 Panola St., 314-1810 — Riccobono’s eggs Pontchartrain is a spin on eggs Benedict with crawfish, sauteed mushrooms and green onions.

The mushroom burger is piled up with sauteed mushrooms, avocado, alfalfa sprouts, tomato and Swiss cheese on a wholewheat bun. Breakfast and lunch daily. Credit cards and checks. $

Cajun Acadiana roots show through MICHAUL’S LIVE CAJUN MUSIC RESTAURANT — 840 St. Charles Ave., 522-5517 — After downing a potent Blue Mamou cocktail, timid guests hit the dance floor. The nightly Cajun and zydeco music and free dance lessons draw the crowds, who fuel up with entrees of barbecue shrimp, catfish pecan and crawfish etouffee. Dinner Mon.-Sat. Credit cards. $$ MULATE’S CAJUN RESTAURANT — 201 Julia St., 522-1492 — Mulate’s authentic Cajun cuisine and nightly live music and dancing celebrates 15 years in New Orleans. Customer favorites include zydeco gumbo, catfish Mulate’s, crabmeat au gratin and homemade bread pudding. Lunch and dinner daily.

Credit cards. $$

Chinese The many ways of China AUGUST MOON — 3635 Prytania St., 899-5129 — August Moon offers Chinese, Vietnamese and vegetarian cooking. The Chinese portion of the menu includes a variety of duck dishes (Hawaiian, Mandarin, ginger) and staples such as moo goo gai pan, chop suey and Mongolian beef. Lunch and dinner Mon.Sat.; late-night Fri.-Sat. Credit cards. $ FIVE HAPPINESS — 3605 S. Carrollton Ave., 482-3935 — The menu is filled with moo shu dishes, egg foo young, sweet and sour selections, chow mein, and loads of veggies, tofu and brown rice upon request. Lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $ TEA GARDEN — 1918 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 833-9455 — Try the crabmeat and crawfish scallops and shrimp with snow peas, baby corn, carrots and other Chinese vegetables. Lunch Mon.-Fri. and dinner daily. Credit cards. $$ TREY YUEN CUISINE OF CHINA — 600 N. Causeway Blvd., Mandeville, 626-4476; 2100 N. Morrison Blvd., Hammond, 3456789 — The Wong brothers’ cuisine keeps carloads traveling outside of New Orleans proper for their Chinese fix. Lunch Wed.-Fri. and Sun, dinner nightly in Mandeville; lunch weekdays and Sun., dinner nightly in Hammond. Credit cards. $$

Coffee & Dessert A cup of java and a pastry

ANGELO BROCATO — 214 N. Carrollton Ave., 486-0078 — A New Orleans tradition since 1905, Angelo Brocato specializes in fresh fruit ices, Italian ice cream, cannoli and biscotti.

Lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $ CAFE ENVIE — 1241 Decatur St., 524-3689 — Two full walls of windows afford a view of outdoor goings-on to go along with a full line of espresso drinks (and stronger choices like the Dolce Vita or Avalanche) as well as fresh cakes and pastries.

Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $ PJ’S COFFEE & TEA — Tulane University, 865-5705; Louis Armstrong International Airport (2 locations), 466-2103; 154 East Hall, Slidell, 643-9040; 634 Frenchmen St., 949-2292; 644 Camp St., 529-3658; 1532 Robert E. Lee Blvd., 283-6686; 945 Magazine St., 525-0522; 3000 Magazine St., 894-0201; 5432 Magazine St., 895-0273; 7624 Maple St., 866-7031; 5300 Tchoupitoulas St., 895-2007; 204 S. Saratoga St., 585-1775; 1600 N. Hwy. 190, Covington, 871-9326; 224 W. Thomas St., Hammond, 345-1533; 1545 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, 368-6600; 4480 Hwy. 22, Mandeville, 624-9015; 2963 Hwy. 190, Mandeville, 674-1565; 800 Metairie Road, Metairie, 828-1460; 10158 Jefferson Hwy., River Ridge, 738-7797 — These neighborhood standbys have been a New Orleans favorite for more than 20 years. To eat: pastries, bagels and the highly addictive chocolate-covered espresso beans. Hours vary by location. Credit cards. $

Creole

Gumbos, turtle soups and paneed meats AUSTIN’S RESTAURANT — 5101 W. Esplanade Ave., Metairie, 888-5533 — Austin’s Restaurant features favorites such as turtle soup, steaks, veal, duck, salmon, redfish, osso buco, ahi tuna and more. Dinner Mon.-Sat. Credit cards and checks. $$ BAYOU BAR — 2031 St. Charles Ave. (Pontchartrain Hotel) 524-0581 — Guests sipping a cocktail can order from the menu of the neighboring Cafe Pontchartrain, which offers Creole crabcakes, trout Pontchartrain and the signature MileHigh Pie. Lunch, dinner and late-night daily. Credit cards. $$$ BROUSSARD’S — 819 Conti St. 581-3866 — Renowned for its cuisine since 1920, Broussard’s offers entrees such as the pompano Napoleon, which features pepper-crusted scallops and shrimp in a puff pastry, all served with a mustard-caper sauce. Dinner nightly. Credit cards. $$$

2031 St. Charles Ave. CAFE PONTCHARTRAIN — (Pontchartrain Hotel) 524-0581 — The blackened trout Pontchartrain covered in crabmeat is popular, but it’s the Mile High Pie, an 8-inch stack of Neopolitan ice cream in a pie crust with layers of peppermint ice cream and meringue on the top, that everyone really anticipates. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $$ CHRISTIAN’S — 3835 Iberville St., 482-4924 — One favorite at this Mid-City restaurant is Christian’s stuffed fish, a fresh fillet filled with crabmeat and shrimp stuffing, lightly battered,

flash-fried, baked and served with garlic-mayonnaise sauce.

Don’t miss the new lunch menu or the Sundown Special Dinner Menu offered Tuesday through Thursday. Lunch Tue.-Fri; dinner Tue.-Sat. Credit cards. $$ THE GUMBO SHOP — 630 St. Peter St., 525-1486 — Possibilities include versions with seafood and okra, smoked duck, file gumbo with chicken and sausage, and a unique vegetarian version called Gumbo Z’herbes. Lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $ GYPSY’S CAFE — 709 St. Charles Ave., 528-5008 — Gypsy cakes are fresh lump crabmeat hand-rolled in medallions of seasoned bread crumbs with celery, bell pepper, onion and Gypsy spice, then sauteed golden brown and served with a halo of lemon citrus. Lunch Mon.-Fri., dinner Mon.-Sat. Credit cards. $$ LIL DIZZY’S CAFE — 1500 Esplanade Ave., 569-8997 — The Creole breakfast includes an omelette station, homemade sausages and pecan waffles. Lunch features an all-you-caneat buffet including fried chicken, Creole file gumbo and bread pudding. Breakfast and lunch daily. Credit cards. $ PALACE CAFE — 605 Canal St., 523-1661 — One signature is crabmeat cheesecake baked in a pecan crust and served with sauteed wild mushrooms and meuniere sauce. Try the Gulf fish coated in housemade andouille sausage and bread crumbs, pan-roasted and served with cayenne beurre blanc and chive aioli. Lunch Mon.-Fri., brunch Sat.-Sun., dinner nightly. Credit cards. $$

Deli

Sliced meats and cheeses and plate lunches KOSHER CAJUN DELI & GROCERY — 3519 Severn Ave., Metairie, 888-2010 — In the authentic New York deli, you’ll find meats, chopped liver and salads by the pound as well as a list of sandwiches. Lunch Sun.-Fri., dinner Mon.-Thu. Credit cards and checks. $ MARTIN WINE CELLAR DELI AND CATERING — 3827 Baronne St., 896-7380; 714 Elmeer Ave., Metairie, 896-7350 — The food behind the counter here is more gourmet than your average deli. Take, for example, the garlic-studded roast pork loin served dressed on an onion roll, the daily specials and plate lunches. Breakfast and lunch daily, dinner Mon.-Sat. Credit cards and checks. $

OUT 2 EAT TED’S FROSTOP — 6303 S. Claiborne Ave. 861-3615 — Ted’s Frostop has been a cornerstone of the Calhoun shopping area since 1955. Ted serves quick breakfasts at ‘low-low’ prices.

Hearty plate lunches change daily, and a local favorite is the Lot-o-burger. Breakfast and lunch daily, dinner Mon.-Sat. Credit cards. $

French

Coq au vin, moules, pate, champagne ANTOINETTE — 1910 Magazine St., 671-3990 — Antoinette’s traditional French cuisine includes everything from broiled escargot and foie gras to crawfish beignets, duck ravioli, coq au vin and sauteed quail. Lunch Tue.-Fri., dinner Tue.-Sat., brunch Sat.-Sun. Credit cards. $$ CAFE DEGAS — 3127 Esplanade Ave., 945-5635 — The Parmesan-crusted veal medallions are served with lemoncaper butter. The quiche du jour, always baked in a housemade pastry shell and with a side salad, is a work of inspiration.

Lunch Tue.-Sun. and dinner daily. Credit cards. $$ FLAMING TORCH — 737 Octavia St. 895-0900 — The shellfish Pernod features shrimp, scallops and crabmeat in crepes with Pernod cream sauce. Or try the magret au poivre: pepperencrusted duck breast topped with honey, lime and peppercorn sauce. Lunch and dinner Mon.-Sat. Credit cards. $$ LOUIS XVI RESTAURANT FRANCAIS — 730 Bienville St. (St. Louis Hotel) 581-7000 — The beef Wellington, a pastrywrapped filet covered in foie gras, and Poisson Louisiane, fish sauteed with bananas and bell peppers, would satisfy the palate of a king. Breakfast and dinner daily. Credit cards. $$$ MEAUXBAR BISTRO — 942 N. Rampart St., 569-9979 — Enjoy classic French bistro fare in a French Colonial Indochine setting. Start with crawfish dumplings or pate and cheese; move on to tarragon and thyme roasted chicken, fresh fish en papillote or steak frites. Dinner Tue.-Sat. Credit cards. $$

Gourmet to Go

Bring ’em in, pack it up, move ’em out

Diner

American-style eats with an attitude DOT’S DINER — 2239 Williams Blvd., Kenner, 441-5600; 2317 Jefferson Hwy., Jefferson, 831-3681; 4150 Jefferson Hwy., Jefferson, 833-9349; 6633 Airline Drive, Metairie, 734-0301; 10701 Jefferson Hwy., River Ridge, 738-9678 — Dot’s serves the kind of American cuisine that has inspired the love of diners in all of us. Red beans and rice, po-boys, steaks, pork chops, burgers, omelettes and breakfast served all day. Hours vary by location. Credit cards. $

BREAUX MART SUPERMARKETS — 605 Lapalco Blvd., Gretna, 433-0333; 2904 Severn Ave., Metairie, 885-5565; 4553 General Meyer Ave., Algiers, 366-3218; 9647 Jefferson Hwy., River Ridge, 737-1702 — Breaux Mart to Geaux consists of freshly prepared entrees ranging from traditional comfort foods to gourmet local favorites. Lunch and dinner Mon.-Sat. Credit cards. $ CHEZ NOUS CHARCUTERIE — 5701 Magazine St., 8997303 — On any given day, the menu features special items available for eating in or taking out. Recent selections include

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OUT 2 EAT Southwest shrimp quesadillas, French chicken vegetable soup and cornbread-stuffed pork chops. Lunch daily, dinner Mon.Sat. Credit cards. $ JIPANG — 814 Gravier St., 565-5322 — Jipang specializes in sushi-to-go for the CBD lunch crowd. Other offerings include the tomato and avocado salad with a light soy-sesame dressing and the pasta of the day. Breakfast and lunch Mon.Fri.. Credit cards. $ LAKEVIEW FINE FOODS — 801 Harrison Ave., 482-7333 — The Lakeview kitchen prepares an assortments of meals fresh every day, hot and cold, all to go. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards and checks. $ SORTEZ CAFE — 141 Delaronde St., Algiers Point, 227-2989 — Sortez serves croissants, muffins and a breakfast burrito in the a.m.; soups, salads and sandwiches for lunch and dinner; and a variety of offerings (including cold sesame peanut noodles) by the cup, pint or quart. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily, late-night Fri.-Sat. Credit cards and checks. $

Greek

Gyros, wraps, baklava and stuffed grape leaves MR. GYROS — 3620 N. Causeway Blvd., Metairie, 833-9228 — Authentic Greek cuisine, with new menu items, a large selection of international wines and catering available. The selection includes kebabs, gyros, baklava, seafood, salads and pastas. Lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $

Indian

Intercontinental

One continent per plate, but a worldly variety on the menu ASIAN CAJUN BISTRO — 301 Decatur St., 522-4964 — Classic Louisiana ingredients and Gulf seafood, including the Louisiana popcorn crawfish and the Asian wok-style snapper, are prepared with a distinctly Far Eastern flair. Lunch and dinner daily; late-night Fri.-Sat. Credit cards. $$$ RASPUTIN RESTAURANT & VODKA BAR — 600 St. Charles Ave., 561-9261 — Bar menu includes an exciting array of tapas-style dishes, from caviar to smoked salmon to homemade spring rolls. Sample one of the 120 vodkas or a signature martini along with the domestic caviar sampler, five domestic caviars with traditional garnishes. Dinner daily. Credit cards. $$ SEMOLINA — 100 Tyler Square, Covington, (985) 898-0004; 1121 Manhattan Blvd., Harvey, 361-8293; 1503 Gause Blvd., Slidell, (985) 641-3456; 2999 Hwy. 190, Mandeville, (985) 6268923; 3226 Magazine St., 895-4260; 3501 W. Chateau Blvd., Kenner, 468-1047; 4436 Veterans Memorial Blvd. (Clearview Shopping Center), Metairie, 454-7930; 5080 Pontchartrain Blvd., 486-5581 — Thai curry shrimp is a perennial favorite, and the daily specials include a double-cheeseburger pasta on Wednesdays. Lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $$ SUN RAY GRILL — 3700 Orleans Ave., Suite 3A, 274-0091; 619 Pink St., Metairie, 837-0055; 1051 Annunciation St., 566-0021; 2600 Belle Chasse Hwy., 391-0053 — Choose from salads, quesadillas and sandwiches, plus fish, poultry and “butcher’s block” entrees. The grilled shrimp Casablanca features headon, seasoned jumbo shrimp grilled over an open pit and served with Madras curry oil, crabcake, vegetables and saffron rice.

Hours vary by location. Credit cards. $$

Italian

Heady curries and peppery lentils HOOKAH CAFE — 500 Frenchmen St., 943-1101 — Highlights of the dinner menu include the grilled lamb sirloin and tandoor salmon; vegetarian and vegan options are also available. Imported beers, specialty wine drinks, more than 80 wines and hookahs also offered. Dinner and late-night daily.

Credit cards. $$ NIRVANA INDIAN CUISINE — 4308 Magazine St., 894-9797 — The chicken Tikka Masala is marinated and grilled in a tandoor oven followed by a long bath in tomato cream sauce.

Okra is the star of the Bhindi Masala, fried and served with tomato and onion and herbs. Lunch and dinner Tue.-Sun. Credit cards. $$ TAJ MAHAL INDIAN CUISINE — 923-C Metairie Road, Metairie, 836-6859 — Taj Mahal brings you an adventure in Indian cuisine, from the 10 kinds of bread to the curry dishes.

The bhindi masala is one of many vegetarian options, stewing okra and potatoes in a tomato-cilantro sauce; tandoori options include chicken, mahi-mahi, shrimp and lamb. Lunch and dinner Tue.-Sun. Credit cards. $$

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Red sauces, antipasti plates and tiramisu ANDREA’S — 3100 19th St., Metairie, 834-8583 — Sample regular selections like the popular eggplant crabcake sauteed in a light lemon butter sauce and topped with green scallions or chives. Lunch weekdays, dinner nightly, brunch Sun. Credit cards. $$ BACCO — 310 Chartres St., 522-2426 — Bacco’s contemporary Italian menu offers housemade pastas, woodfired pizzas and fresh regional seafood selections. Among Chef Haley’s favorites are black truffle fettuccine and lobster and shrimp ravioli. Lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $$$ BRICK OVEN CAFE — 2805 Williams Blvd., Kenner, 4662097 — Start with the eggplant rolatine or the mozzarella corozza and move on to the Brick Oven pizza, roasted chicken, mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, herbs and homemade cheese with Italian sausage. Or sample the plentiful pasta, fish, veal and chicken offerings. Lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $$

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CAFE GIOVANNI — 117 Decatur St. 529-2154 — Three nights a week (Wed., Fri. and Sat.), this Italian eatery features opera singers who serenade you as you sup. The music for your mouth, however, comes in the form of the hunter’s cannelloni with three meats and four cheeses. Dinner nightly. Credit cards. $$ FAUSTO’S ITALIAN BISTRO — 530 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 833-7121 — The Pesce Siciliana is a fresh fillet of fish sauteed in a light lemon herb sauce, flamed with white wine and topped with large shrimp, capers and Italian herbs. Lunch Mon.-Fri. and dinner nightly. Credit cards. $$ FRESCO CAFE & PIZZERIA — 7625 Maple St., 862-6363 — Choose from gourmet pizzas, pasta, salads, sandwiches, lavash rolls, pita wraps and strombolies. Fresco offers the highest quality mozzarella cheese and daily home-baked bread. Lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $ MAXIMO’S ITALIAN GRILL — 1117 Decatur St., 586-8883 — Maximo’s offers more than 50 wines by the glass and more than 400 by the bottle to accompany its seafood, veal, pasta and vegetarian options. Dinner daily; late-night Fri.-Sat. Credit cards. $$ NARDO’S — 6078 Laurel St., 895-9441 — Nardo’s specializes in Southern Italian cuisine and features a build-your-own pasta dish with your favorite pasta, sauce, and vegetables, meat or seafood. Dinner Mon.-Sat. Credit cards. $$ RISTORANTE DA PIERO — 401 Williams Blvd., Kenner, 4698585 — Ristorante da Piero offers seafood, steaks and homemade pastas. The house specialty is the filetto al pepe verde, a medallion of beef served with cream sauce flowered with fresh green peppercorn. Lunch Tue.-Sun., dinner Tue.-Sat. Credit cards and checks. $$ ROTOLO’S MARIGNY PIZZERIA — 532 Frenchmen St., 948EATS — Pizzas sandwiches, wraps, calzones, salads, pastas and root beer floats. Enjoy the free wireless Internet and live music. Lunch, dinner and late-night daily. Credit cards. $ VENEZIA — 134 N. Carrollton Ave., 488-7991; 587 Central Ave., Jefferson, 734-3991 — This old-fashioned, family-style Italian restaurant offers heaping portions of reassuring Italian favorites like cannelloni or Vitello Parmigiana, paired with recommended wines by the glass. Lunch and dinner daily.

Credit cards. $$

Japanese

Bring on the wasabi HORINOYA — 920 Poydras St., 561-8914 — Horinoya features an upscale environment and specializes in traditional Japanese cuisine. Specialty items include blue fin toro, kanpachi, aji mackerel and sushi. Fish is fresh daily. Lunch Mon.-Fri., dinner daily. Credit cards. $$ MIKIMOTO — 3301 S. Carrollton Ave., 488-1881 — Few deals in town can match the bang for your buck of Mikimoto’s 99cent sushi pieces. In addition to the wide variety of sushi offerings, their menu includes plenty of traditional Japanese

fare. Daily lunch specials spice it up a bit. Lunch Sun.-Fri., dinner daily. Credit cards. $ MIYAKO JAPANESE SEAFOOD & STEAK HOUSE — 3837 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 779-6475 — After 20 years in New York, the owners of this traditional Japanese restaurant expanded to New Orleans. Enjoy the showmanship and fresh meals of the Hibachi room or sample from the spacious sushi bar. Lunch and dinner daily. $$ ROCK-N-SAKE — 823 Fulton St., 581-SAKE — The baked green mussels and beef asparagus Maki served with teriyaki sauce on a sizzling plate are all the reason you need. Lunch weekdays, dinner nightly, late-night Fri. and Sat. Credit cards. $ WASABI SUSHI & ASIAN GRILL — 900 Frenchmen St. 9439433; 5243 Canal Blvd., 488-8828 — Chef Phat Nguy serves noodle bowls, soups and sushi until 2 a.m. on weekends. Fried shrimp stir-fried in honey-wasabi sauce is proving to be a signature dish. Lunch Mon.-Fri., dinner nightly, late-night Fri.Sat. Credit cards. $

Latin American

Distinct cuisines sharing one hemisphere BOSSA NOVA — 606 Frenchmen St., 944-4744 — Bossa Nova’s Brazilian cuisine includes the house specialty: muqueca, shrimp stew with coconut milk, red palm oil and spices served with rice and pirao. Dinner and late-night Tue.Sat. Credit cards. $$ PUPUSERIA LA MACARENA — 4221 Williams Blvd., Ste. A, Kenner, 464-4525 — Latin homecooking favorites include black bean soup, tamales, pupusas and shrimp ceviche. The restaurant is bring-your-own-alcohol, and the menu boasts vegetarian options and organic homemade fruit drinks. Lunch and dinner Tue.-Sun. Credit cards. $$

Louisiana Contemporary Creole traditions meet the cutting-edge

201 RESTAURANT AND BAR — 201 Decatur St., 561-0007 — Try the steamed black mussels appetizer in a saffron tomato broth with sourdough croutons, and move on to the wild mushroom tagliatelle pasta, drizzled with white truffle oil and topped with fresh shaved Parmesan. Dinner nightly, latenight Fri.-Sat. Credit cards. $$$ CAFE VOLAGE — 720 Dublin St., 861-4227 — The popular osso buco features a braised veal shank in a demi-glace of scallion, mushroom and red wine, served with fettuccine Alfredo. The Sunday brunch menu boasts 10 entree choices, dessert and all-you-can-drink champagne for $17.95. Lunch and dinner Mon.-Sat, brunch Sun. Credit cards. $$ FQB — The Ritz-Carlton, 921 Canal St., 524-1331 — This casual New Orleans-style restaurant offers Cajun and Creole daily specials, as well as traditional appetizers, salads, sandwiches and entrees. Lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $$ HEDGES BAR & GRILL — 4 Galleria Blvd., Wyndham, Metairie, 620-9412 — Specialty dishes include a rich shrimp bisque,

finished with cognac and cream. Also try the grilled chicken and the goat cheese pizza. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily, brunch Sun. Credit cards. $$ PONTCHARTRAIN GRILLE — Treasure Chest Casino, 5050 Williams Blvd., Kenner, 443-8000 — So popular as an appetizer that Chefs Mikko Gruenzner and Keston Mimmitt made it an entree, the crabmeat au gratin is served bubbling hot with a side of crispy croustades. The chocolate molten dessert features warm, moist cake surrounding a liquid chocolate core. Dinner Wed.-Sun. Credit cards. $$ RALPH’S ON THE PARK — 900 City Park Ave., 488-1000 — Housed in a renovated historic building across from the entrance to City Park, Ralph’s serves “Louisiana French” cuisine. Don’t miss the butter-crusted baby drum, hickorygrilled lamb chops and seared sea scallops. Lunch Mon.-Sat., dinner nightly. brunch Sun. Credit cards. $$$ RED MAPLE — 1036 Lafayette St., Gretna 367-0935 — Creole dishes at this revitalized centerpiece of West Bank social life include mirliton stuffed with shrimp, crabmeat, oysters and andouille and the eggplant Maple topped with sauteed shrimp in a black pepper sauce. Lunch Mon.-Fri., dinner Wed.-Sat. Credit cards. $$$

Mediterranean

Cuisine of garlic and capers BYBLOS — 3218 Magazine St., 894-1233 — Byblos specializes in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine, including lamb dishes and kebabs. Happy hours daily 4-7 p.m; Thursday’s features $3 Ketel One martinis and belly dancing. Lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $$ CLEOPATRA MEDITERRANEAN CUISINE — 2701 Manhattan Blvd., Harvey, 361-1113 — Cleopatra uses pita bread baked on the premises for entrees such as the various shish kebab options and the gourmet shawarma, hand-stuck layers of marinated beef served with hummus, rice and salad.

Customers may bring their own alcoholic beverages, with no corkage fee charged. Lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $$ FELLINI’S CAFE — 900 N. Carrollton Ave., 488-2155 — Specializes in creative, affordable Mediterranean cuisine with fresh ingredients. Courtyard overlooks the Carrollton streetcar line. Now featuring updated wine and beer selection.

Lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $

Mexican & Southwest

Tacos, burritos, flautas and quesadillas BANDITO’S RESTAURANT & TEQUILA BAR — 535 Tchoupitoulas St., 599-2111 — Affordable Mexican fare includes fajitas, chile relleno and the five-salsa platter. Fiesta fajitas are grilled marinated beef tenderloin or chicken breast with peppers and onions, refried black beans, Mexican rice and fresh tortillas. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily.

Credit cards. $

CASA GARCIA MEXICAN RESTAURANT — 8814 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 464-0354; 800 N. Causeway Blvd., Mandeville, (985) 951-8226 — The Sonoran fajita wrap is your choice of beef, chicken or pork tenderloin layered in a garlic herb tortilla with lettuce, tomato and carmelized onions and served with your choice of Spanish rice, French fries or sweet potato fries. Lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $$ JUANS FLYING BURRITO — 2018 Magazine St., 569-0000; 4724 S. Carrollton Ave., 486-9950 — The namesake burrito is a super burrito (which means that it comes loaded with sour cream and guacamole) rolled fat with chicken, steak, shrimp, beans and rice. Lunch and dinner daily, late-night Fri. and Sat. Credit cards. $ TAQUERIA CORONA — 5932 Magazine St., 897-3974; 857 Fulton St., 524-9805; 3535 Severn Ave., Metairie, 885-5088; 1827 Hickory Ave., Harahan, 738-6722 — Taqueria makes its guacamole and pico de gallo from scratch; for any number of authentic Mexican entrees, beef and chicken are folded into soft flour tortillas. Hours vary by location. Credit cards. $ VERA CRUZ — 7537 Maple St. 866-1736 — Vera Cruz gets into the spirit of expansion on Maple Street with weekly food specials. Show up for the margarita specials on Tuesdays and Thursdays and sample new dishes like the Spanish paella and the chile rellenos. Dinner Mon.-Sat. Credit cards. $

and Dixie Beer reduction. For dessert, try the white chocolate banana bread pudding served with creme Anglaise and a caramel halo. Lunch and dinner daily, brunch Sun. Credit cards. $$

OUT 2 EAT

THE MARKET CAFE — 1000 Decatur St., 527-5000 — The menu features an all-you-can-eat breakfast buffet and includes Cajun and Creole lunch and dinner options. Select fresh seafood entrees and enjoy the daily five-piece jazz combo. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $$

a vegetarian dish of garlic green beans, Japanese eggplant and bok choy in an Asian brown sauce. Lunch and dinner daily.

Credit cards. $

ROCK ’N’ BOWL CAFE — 4133 S. Carrollton Ave., 482-3133 — Before zydeco on Wednesdays and Thursdays or bowling a few frames any old night, stop by the cafe and order up gumbo, crawfish quesadillas, jambalaya or pizza. Lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $ SNUG HARBOR JAZZ BISTRO — 626 Frenchmen St., 9490696 — The nightly menu includes the house favorite grilled salmon with steamed broccoli and rice, as well as a pecan pie that makes them proud. Dinner nightly. Credit cards. $$

Neighborhood

Red beans on Monday night

Stuffed grape leaves and gyros

FURY’S RESTAURANT — 724 Martin Behrman Ave., 834-5646 — Regulars at Fury’s find it hard to resist the trout Carrie.

The tender fillet is either fried, broiled or grilled and topped with sauteed lump crabmeat. Finish up with a serving of the housemade bread pudding in rum sauce. Lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $$

CASABLANCA MOROCCAN & MIDDLE EASTERN RESTAURANT — 3030 Severn Ave., Metairie, 888-2209 — Casablanca specializes in original Moroccan dishes such as the house’s signature couscous, which can be served with chicken, lamb or beef. Lunch and dinner specials are also offered. Lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $$

JUDICE’S — 421 E. Gibson St., Covington, (985) 892-0708 — The diverse menu includes breakfast classics and lunch specials such as the chicken Magnifico. Dinner features duck and andouille gumbo, housemade lasagna and veal eggplant Romano. Breakfast and lunch daily, dinner Fri.-Sat. Credit cards. $

BYBLOS — 1501 Metairie Road, Metairie, 834-9773 — Specializing in Lebanese cuisine, Byblos offers hummus, tabouli, falafel, kibbe, kabobs, rack of lamb and a variety of daily specials. Lunch and dinner Mon.-Sat. Credit cards. $$

KATIE’S RESTAURANT — 3701 Iberville St., 488-6582 — Specials and neighborhood cuisine include Italian dishes, seafood, burgers, fresh home-cooked roast beef and turkey, and salads with homemade dressings. Lunch and dinner Mon.Sat. Credit cards. $$

Middle Eastern

LEBANON’S CAFE — 1506 S. Carrollton Ave., 862-6200 — Although cabbage roll dinners and gyro plates are popular, customers who can’t decide on one dish come with a group and order a bunch of appetizers to pass around with the soft and fluffy pita bread. Lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $

Music & Food

Where no one should dance on an empty stomach THE GAZEBO CAFE — 1016-1018 Decatur St., 525-8899 — Dig into ribs, pork chops and seafood platters while sipping specialty drinks like the ice cream daiquiri and the mocha almond freeze and listening to Joe Fox’s Jazz Groove featuring Prince Albert “the Dogman” daily. Lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $ HOUSE OF BLUES — 225 Decatur St., 529-2583 — The panseared Voodoo Shrimp is served with rosemary cornbread

LIUZZA’S RESTAURANT & BAR INC. — 3636 Bienville St., 482-9120 — This Mid-City establishment is the home of Frenchuletta and the18-oz.frozen draft beer. Other specialty dishes include Italian, Cajun, seafood, pasta, salads, soups and gumbo, and po-boys. Lunch and dinner Mon.-Sat. Credit cards. $ MR. ED’S SEAFOOD & ITALIAN RESTAURANT — 1001 Live Oak St., Metairie, 838-0022 — Mr. Ed’s celebrates 12 years of serving homestyle cooking: seafood, po-boys, fried chicken, and Italian and Creole cuisine in a family atmosphere. Lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $$

Panasian

Pad Thai, sushi, orange-peel chicken — on the same menu ASIAN SUPER BUFFET — 3900 Williams Blvd., Kenner, 7120899 — Asian Super Buffet’s more than 250 offerings include

GIGI ASIAN BISTRO — 4415 Banks St., 483-7884 — This bistro offers bubble tea in addition to spring rolls, soups, curries and entrees including grilled lemon grass pork chops and beef pepper steak sauteed with bell peppers and onions.

Breakfast daily, lunch and dinner Mon.-Sat. Credit cards. $ KING BUFFET — 601 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 8374383 — King Buffet boasts an all-you-can-eat buffet with more than 250 items daily, including Chinese, Japanese and American dishes. Menu also includes lunch specials, combination platters and chef ’s specialties like the seafood noodles and sesame chicken. Lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $ NOODLE BAR & TEA SHOP — 702 Decatur St., 571-8928 — Fresh noodles made daily are used in entrees such as the Japanese soba, buckwheat noodles with vegetables in a garlic sauce, and the house noodles, sauteed with assorted Chinese vegetables in a sweet and tangy sauce. Lunch and dinner daily.

Credit cards. $

Pizza

From caviar and capers to the plain cheese pie CAFE ROMA — 1901 Sophie Wright Place, 524-2419 — Pizzas, pastas and other Italian fare delivered to your doorstep.

Updated dining room is stylish and romantic. Lunch, dinner and late-night daily. Credit cards. $ ITALIAN PIE — 417 S. Rampart St., 522-7552; 5219 Elysian Fields Ave., 288-0888; 5650 Jefferson Hwy., Jefferson, 7343333; 3600 Williams Blvd., Kenner, 469-4999; 1914 E. Judge Perez Drive, Chalmette, 278-0001; 4840 Bienville St., 483-9949; 5538 Magazine St., 894-0005; 4350 Hwy. 22, Mandeville, 626-5252; 7770 Read Blvd., 244-7200; 901 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 832-1121; 5606 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie — Menu items include gourmet pizzas, salads, pastas, sandwiches and calzones. Try a lavash wrap, which features seasoned ingredients wrapped and roasted in a crispy Mediterranean flatbread. Lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $ MARK TWAIN’S PIZZA LANDING — 2035 Metairie Road, Metairie, 832-8032 — The Mysterious Stranger pizza is topped with spinach, feta cheese and your choice of meat and vegetable. Sandwich seekers like the garlicky sauteed shrimp po-boy. Or paddle in for a giant bowl of pasta. Lunch and dinner Tue.-Sun. Credit cards. $ NEW YORK PIZZA — 208 N. Carrollton Ave., 482-2376; 5201 Magazine St., 891-2376 — New York Pizza has been serving a slice of the Big Apple in the Big Easy since 1980. From their Brooklyn BBQ to their famous muffalettas everything they serve is made to order with care. Lunch and dinner Tue.-

DAILY LUNCH SPECIALS

starting from $5.50

LUNCH: mon-fri 11am-2:30pm DINNER: mon-thurs 5pm-10:30pm / fri 5pm-11pm SATURDAY 11am-11pm / SUNDAY 12 noon-10:30pm 3837 veterans blvd. metairie 504.779.6475 1403 st. charles ave. new orleans 504.410.9997 www.japanesebistro.com

and it’s free...

look for it only on

bestofneworleans.com www.bestofneworleans.com | August 30, 2005 | Gambit Weekly

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Gambit Weekly | August 30, 2005 | www.bestofneworleans.com

OUT 2 EAT

SOUTHERN PO-BOYS — 720 Claiborne Drive, Jefferson, 8353035 — Menu includes po-boys, plates and platters, salads, and daily specials. Lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $

Sun. (Carrollton location); lunch and dinner daily (Magazine location). Credit cards. $

Grilled, broiled, boiled, fried

REGINELLI’S PIZZERIA — 741 State St., 899-1414; 3244 Magazine St., 895-7272; 874 Harrison Ave. 488-0133; 5608 Citrus Blvd., Elmwood, 818-0111 — Start out with an appetizer like the spicy shrimp over polenta in pancetta cream and move onto a gourmet pizza creation like the nontraditional Irish Feast, topped with chicken, potatoes, tomatoes and green onions. Lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $ ROMAN PIZZA — 7329 Cohn St., 866-1166 — Roman Pizza has provided the Carrollton and university areas for more than 15 years with pizza, hot sandwiches with fresh baked bread and signature salads. Lunch, dinner and late-night daily.

Credit cards. $ SLICE — 1513 St. Charles Ave., 525-7437 — Get what you want in the amount you want by choosing a slice of Sicilian soft, thick crust, white pizza or thin Neapolitan-style crust and building up with your favorite toppings. Lunch, dinner and late-night daily. Credit cards. $ THEO’S PIZZA — 4218 Magazine St., 894-8554 — This neighborhood pizza joint offers specialty pizzas like the veggie-friendly Hippie and the Hawaii Five-O, along with sandwiches and salads. Wednesday night offers wine specials.

Lunch, dinner and late-night daily. Credit cards. $

Sandwiches & Po-boys The heart and soul of comfort food

PARASOL’S RESTAURANT & BAR — 2533 Constance St. 8992054 — Some say the best roast beef po-boy in town can be found at this Irish Channel institution. Deep-fried pickles, oyster po-boys or the doubly delicious gravy cheese fries all make the perfect accompaniment to a pint of Guinness. Lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $ PARKWAY BAKERY & TAVERN — 538 Hagan Ave., 482-3047 — Parkway boasts “legendary roast beef po-boys at a New Orleans legend,” but the menu also includes a variety of other po-boys, sandwiches, salads and sides. Lunch and dinner daily.

Credit cards. $ RAGUSA’S — 3363 Severn Ave., Metairie, 454-2723 — The home of “the original artichoke bread,” Ragusa’s is the place to get a muffaletta or a classic New Orleans-style plate lunch. One signature is the stuffed artichoke soup; also recommended are the fried pickles. Lunch Mon.-Sat. Credit cards. $ RUSSELL’S SHORT STOP PO-BOYS — 119 Transcontinental Drive, Metairie, 885-4572 — Top-of-the-line po-boys like the signature roast beef, available in several sizes but always with savory gravy. Breakfast, lunch and dinner Mon-Sat. Credit cards, checks. $

Seafood

ACME OYSTER HOUSE — 724 Iberville St., 522-5973; 519 E. Boston St., Covington, 898-0667; 3000 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 309-4056 — Slurp them raw or gobble them fried in po-boys, platters, or as a loaf served with traditional pickles and butter. Other menu features include the Poopa, a French bread bowl filled with gumbo or red beans and rice.

Lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $ BOURBON HOUSE — 144 Bourbon St., 831-8666 — Start your meal with Louisiana oysters on the half shell topped with Cajun caviar or the trio of baked oysters. Menu highlights include the Gulf Fish Iberville, served with a saute of Gulf shrimp, oysters, artichokes and mushrooms. Lunch Mon.-Fri., brunch Sat.-Sun., dinner daily. Credit cards. $$$ BOZO’S — 3117 21st St., Metairie 831-8666 — Chef Bozo offers everything from stuffed shrimp and stuffed crabs to broiled and fried fish, seafood platters and chicken andouille gumbo. Lunch and dinner Tue.-Sat. Credit cards. $ THE GALLEY RESTAURANT — 2535 Metairie Road, Metairie, 832-0955 — Jumbo boiled shrimp are customer favorites, while crawfish cake and paneed veal dinners served with Alfredo pasta also swim out the door. A pecan-fried catfish dinner is served with sweet potato fries, a side of veggies, a salad and garlic bread. Lunch and dinner Tue.-Sat. Credit cards. $$ MALONEY’S RESTAURANT — 5000 Old Gentilly Road, 9422402 — House specialties include slow-smoked barbecue ribs. Maloney’s offers a daily lunch and dinner buffet, with Friday’s focusing on seafood. Open 24 hours. Credit cards. $ THE PORT HOLE RESTAURANT — 4406 Pontchartrain Drive, Slidell (985) 643-1419 — Peek inside The Port Hole and find a selection of steaks, redfish Pontchartrain and tuna in tequila lime beurre blanc topped with lump crabmeat. Chef William Faberas enormous seafood platter satisfies both sailors and landlubbers. Dinner Mon.-Sat. Credit cards. $$ RALPH & KACOO’S THE SEAFOOD RESTAURANT — 519 Toulouse St. 522-5226; www.ralphandkacoos.com — This family-friendly French Quarter locale can prepare a seafood platter fried, broiled or blackened. Management recommends the Ruby, a seasonal fish stuffed with crabmeat dressing and topped with hollandaise sauce and crabmeat. Lunch and dinner daily. Credit cards. $$ RESTAURANT DES FAMILLES — 7163 Barataria Blvd., Crown Point, 689-7834 — Seafood fare includes the softshell crab Foster, fried and topped with artichoke bottoms, mushrooms and green onions sauteed in butter and wine. Lunch and dinner Tue.-Sat., brunch and dinner Sun. Credit cards. $$ RICCOBONO’S PEPPERMILL RESTAURANT — 3524 Severn

Ave., Metairie, 455-2266 — Start with crawfish bisque or oysters Riccobono. Other customer favorites include shrimp parmigiana, salmon with crabmeat bordelaise and speckled trout pecan. Lunch daily, dinner Tue.-Sun., brunch Sun. Credit cards. $$

TUSCANY STEAKS AND SEAFOOD — 711 Casino Magic Drive, Bay St. Louis, 88-9830 — Certified Angus beef, veal chops, fresh seafood, pasta and more. New menu features filet mignon, Chilean sea bass and expanded wine list. Dinner nightly. Credit cards. $$

SAIA’S ON THE LAKE — 200 Old Hammond Hwy., Metairie, 831-5700 — Appetizers include crabmeat au gratin and cherry brandy duck. Fresh grilled and fried seafoods include redfish Marquery, the seafood boat and the chef ’s catch of the day. Prime steaks and chops and pasta dishes also available.

Lunch Tue.-Fri.; dinner Tue.-Sun. Credit cards. $$

Small plates meant to be enjoyed with aperitifs or wine

SMILIE’S RESTAURANT — 5725 Jefferson Hwy., Harahan, 733-3000 — One of the house specialties is known as the catfish Smilie; menu also includes seafood platter, trout amandine, softshell crabs and Louisiana crabcakes. Lunch Mon.-Fri.; dinner Mon.-Sat., call for Sun. hours. Credit cards, checks. $$

Soul

What real soul does to food DEEP SOUTH LOUNGE — 329 Decatur St., 529-3331 — Ms. Kathleen prepares a menu of French Quarter soul food that includes catfish, fried chicken, liver and onions and pork chops. Sides range from macaroni and cheese and collard greens to cheese grits, yams and black-eyed peas. Lunch daily.

Credit cards. $

Steakhouse

Let the meat speak for itself THE BESH STEAKHOUSE AT HARRAH’S — 512 S. Peters St. (Harrah’s New Orleans Casino) 533-6111 — The American Kobe beef, served with lobster and shrimp-stuffed piquillo peppers, and the cowboy steak, an aged 32-oz. prime rib steak, will make every diner feel lucky. Dinner nightly. Credit cards. $$$ CRESCENT CITY STEAKHOUSE — 1001 N. Broad St., 821-3271 — This Mid-City steakhouse offers a quiet meal of sizzling steaks and side-dish favorites such as au gratin potatoes, Lyonnaise potatoes and spinach au gratin. Lunch and dinner Tue.-Sun. Credit cards. $$ DICKIE BRENNAN’S STEAKHOUSE — 716 Iberville St., 522CHOP — All steaks are USDA prime, including the Trio of Tournedos served with three sauces: au poivre, marchands de vin and bernaise. The House Filet is dressed with fried oysters and béarnaise sauce and accompanied by creamed spinach and potatoes. Lunch Mon.-Fri., dinner nightly. Credit cards. $$$ THE STEAK KNIFE RESTAURANT & BAR — 610 Poydras St. 2125656; 888 Harrison Ave. 488-8981 — Start with a Seraphine Salad, an avocado half stuffed with marinated hearts of palm and artichoke atop mixed greens and topped with asparagus, red onion and vinaigrette. Try the Gulf Fish Robert, pan-sauteed then topped with lump crabmeat, mushroom and lemon-butter sauce. Hours vary by location. Credit cards. $$

Tapas

MADRID RESTAURANTE — 2723 Roosevelt Blvd., Kenner, 4695599 — Go to Madrid for classic Spanish cuisine. The tapas menu includes lobster-stuffed piquillo peppers, garlic shrimp and mussels Madrid: sauteed mussels with onions, sausage, imported bacon, garlice, red crushed peppers and imported sherry. Lunch Tue.-Fri., dinner Tue.-Sun. Credit cards. $$ MIMI’S IN THE MARIGNY — 2601 Royal St., 942-0690 — Sample mushroom manchego toast and ceviche with yucca chips, or try the herbed goat cheese-stuffed piquillo peppers and the marinated olives and caper berries. Dinner and late-night daily. Credit cards. $ VEGA TAPAS CAFE — 2051 Metairie Road, Metairie, 8362007 — Vega specializes in appetizer-portioned, Spanishinfluenced seafoods, grilled meats and vegetarian selections.

Dinner daily, late-night Fri.-Sat. Credit cards. $ THE WINE LOFT — 752 Tchoupitoulas St., 561-0116 — The Wine Loft features 50 wines by the glass and more than 250 by the bottle. Light tapas menu includes signature cheese board or charcuterie plate. Cheese fondue features imported cheeses served warm with breads, fruit and vegetables for dipping. Dinner daily. Credit cards. $

Vegetarian & Health

For the meatless — and the health-conscious GARRISON’S GLOBAL BAR — 105 S. Cate St., Hammond,(985) 419-1180 — Organic choices include LifeFood menu, freshly baked breads, homemade soups, coffee, tea, juices, pastries, salads and sandwiches. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily; latenight Fri.-Sat. Credit cards and checks. $

Vietnamese

Steaming bowls of pho and stretchy spring rolls FROSTY’S CAFFE — 3400 Cleary Ave., 888-9600; 2800 Manhattan Blvd., Suite B, 361-9099 — This VietnameseAmerican eatery offers salads, sandwiches and Vietnamese entrees. Regulars stop by for the bubble teas. Lunch and dinner daily at Manhattan location; lunch and dinner Mon.-Sat. at Cleary location. Credit cards. $ PHO TAU BAY — 113-C Westbank Expwy., Gretna, 368-9846; 3116 N. Arnoult Road, Metairie, 780-1063; 1565 Tulane Ave., 524-4669; 216 N. Carrollton Ave., 485-7687 — The Bun Bo Hue is hot and spicy, served with rice noodles and tender slices of flank steak and pork tenderloin, a taste from the central part of Vietnam. Call for hours. Credit cards. $

Support your local Sheriff In the Fight Against Breast Cancer

Help win the fight against breast cancer by the seat of your pants!

On Friday, October 7th, pull on your jeans and join our local Honorary Chair Sheriff Harry Lee in celebrating the nation’s largest single-day breast cancer fundraiser,

Lee National Denim Day! Just make a $5 donation to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation and in exchange, wear jeans to work for a cure!

To register your company, group or school, visit www.denimday.com or call 800-521-5533. For more information, contact the Komen New Orleans Affiliate at 504-561-0888 or go online to komenneworleans.com. www.bestofneworleans.com | August 30, 2005 | Gambit Weekly

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GW

CLASSIFIEDS

TO ADVERTISE CALL

GW

FAX

483-3153

MERCHANDISE 4 SALE

Blue Willow dinnerware. Old. Selling 6+, many serving. 985-446-5122; chcail@charter.net. $945

ANTIQUES & COLLECTIBLES ANTIQUE PLANTERS (2) - SMALL OLIVE JAR SHAPE - $99 FOR BOTH - 393-0636 Buying antiques, collectibles, art, pottery, jewelry, glass, furn. 1 item to whole estate. 985-373-1857 Collection of pictures Frames. All sizes.

Oak, walnut & mahogany. $5-$25 8610615 Larkin desk $300, Shaker rocker $350, Victorian Upolstered Chaisse $150, Laminate salad bowl $40, Full body tilting mirror $75, Windsor chair $150 Call 865-1834 POCKET DOORS, 2 pairs (4 drs total) w/ all casing & trim, excellent cond. $1500/pair. Also 2 Mantels $150 ea.

Can deliver. 944-0002

APPLIANCES 2 White Refrigerators. Like new. $125 each; Kenmore washer/dryer set $300; Ethan Allen dining table w/six chairs $800. 504-669-4375.

GE Refrigerator, white, frost-free, really excellent condition. $250 obo. Call 3882837. !!!MOVING SALE!!!

• 1yr. old white Maytag Perfoma WASHER & DRYER, $300 each, $500 together.

• MICROWAVE, $75 • Brand new PHONE, $30 • Brand new TOASTER, $25 Call 504.247.6252 Stove, 1997. Canadian Heartland. Gas. Excel condition. $5000 - new. Sell for $1500 OBO. 504-899-4495 Sunbeam juice extractor - $20. Small microwave oven - $10. 454-3454

ART/POSTERS 1976 Signed, Numbered, Framed New Orleans Jazz Fest Poster by artist Maria Laredo. Excellent cond. Asking $1400.

504-495-9707 1978 Jazz Fest Poster. Framed & signed.

Price negotiable. Call (504) 710-5080

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483-3100

CRESCENT CITY CLASSIC

1986 POSTER, SIGNED, NUMBERED 1142/3000. GOOD CONDITION. MAKE OFFER. CALL MARY LOU, 483-3112.

AUDIO/WIRELESS EQUIPMENT

COMPUTERS/TYPEWRITERS Sharp Electronic typewriter w/ extra print wheels, correctable ribbons & lift-off tapes $99 277-3360 17 inch monitor $50 14 inch monitor $30 in good working condition. 232-5392

BOSE 321 Surround Sound Stereo System. Approximately 1 year-old. Paid $900. Asking $450. 837-6684

486 Computer key board & monitor and disk all $100. Call 259-3082

BEDDING

ELECTRONICS

Great buy- Girls twin bed with headboard and shelf, mattress, and boxspring included! Asking $100 obo 352-1108 Mattress & Box Spring - Full Size Excellent Condition $100. 393-0636

Mackie powered mixer, 6 channels, 500 watts. $350. Small amp $50. Vocal master speakers $150. Gemini Mixer & sampler, 4 channels. $100. Karzweil keyboard, some keys not working. $150.

615-7392

BICYCLES

EXERCISE/SPORTS EQUIPMENT

1981 Honda cx500 parts bike not running. plus spare engine very cleans.

Both for $75 call nate 504 390 1411 Bicycle, woman’s. Sun Cruiser, 7spd w/ basket, white walls, new condition, med. blue. Pd $300 new. Asking $225.

Beautiful. Call 484-6640

BLDG. MATERIALS THREE 9 FOOT SQUARE COLUMNS. $75.00 OBO. CALL 866-8734.

BOOKS Signed 1st edition Erica Jong Fear of Flying $50 482-5704 Signed Frank McCourt Angela’s Ashes $50 482-5704

CEMETARY PLOTS/FUNERAL ITEMS MAUSOLEUM BURIAL

MAUSOLEUM BURIAL - 1 plot for 2 caskets next to waterfall. Chapel of Peace Metairie Lawn Cemetery •$9500 • 504913-9113

CLOTHING Ladies sexy lingerie (2 pc). $20 ea. (5) Call 468-2192.

Wedding gown Size 12 lace and pearls $55 504-456-6188

2004 Weider Platinum Total Gym. Over 75 positions. Never used. $500 2839551, 236-4730

FLOWERS/PLANTS Silk Ficus Tree Beautiful only $30 paid $150 Call 400-0438

FURNITURE/ACCESSORIES $105 QUEEN MATTRESS SET New w/ wrrty will deliver 952-8403 $135 QUEEN PILLOWTOP Mattress Set, still in pkg will deliver 885-6795 1940 Mahogany dinette set w/ 6 chairs, buffet & china cabinet, good condition $2500 obo. Hurwitz Mintz couch $500 obo. 985/705-1299 or 504/866-1134. $369 NEW NASA MEMORY FOAM Mattress Set - great for bad backs!

NEW 952-8403 4PC QUEEN BEDRM SET solid wood.

Nice $375 GREEN/BLUE PLAID LOVESEAT & 2 BLUE CHAIRS, ALL $90 DIN RM TABLE W/ 4 CHAIRS LIKE NEW $150. 737-8552 or 451-6585 6 pc. Bernhart contemporary Bedroom Suite, mahogany w/black lacquer, Queen size platform bed, 7-drawer dresser, 2 night stands and large Entertainment Armoire. Exc. condition. Pd. $5500, asking $1500/OBO. Call 723-0968 $85 Full Mattress Set w/ wrrty still in plastic del. avail. 952-8403

Gambit Weekly | August 30, 2005 | www.bestofneworleans.com

E M A I L classadv@gambitweekly.com

Antique looking Bedroom set w/ HB, NS, DR, Armoire. $700 obo. Call Liz at 8819087 or Ms Iris 833-4654.

Arched solid iron gate. 3 ft x 6 ft. $220 OBO. 897-5275, 669-6150 Black Iron Canopy Bed $120, w/ mattress set $230, NEW can deliver 885-6795 Black Metal Canopy Bed and Sealy Mattress with bedding like new $450/OBO. 504-296-2391 Custom Refinished Furniture. 3 neo classical bookshelves, 18th Century Louis 16th canopy loveseat & chair, Mahogany desk chair, Hunt table/desk, Walnut repro armoire. 948-9487 Folding Screen, black lacquer & gold leaf 7’x4’, $175. Cradle $40. Foos ball table $125. Windmill, unassembled, $40.

Gargyle Candle Holder 5’, $120. Gilded Mirror 48”x38” $100. Call 895-4984.

Full BR set, sofa, love seat, coffee & end tables, TV, dining room set & more for sale. 504-453-2550 Futon/Twin Bed w/ ottoman Natural Wood. Good Condition. $100 577-0685 Glass showcase with rear mirror & lock 4 ft long x 18” deep x 16” high $100 8995561 Glass Table. Glass top, metal foundation. $85 Call 899-9714 Great Deal for Students! Sofa, love seat, queen bed: $100 (985)807-9127 Leather Sofa, off white. Exc cond. 3 yrs old. Pd. $3000, sell $1500 obo. 1 TV stand & 2 Audio Towers-wood w/glass shelves. Still in box. New $700, sell $300 obo. 504-485-2471 Moving Must Sell!Ethan Allen twin bdrm set, dresser, nghtstand, mirror 100% maple wd Good Cond. $800 483-1214 !!! MOVING SALE !!!

Simple, white bedroom set, $75 Brand new Shabby Chic desk, $75 Nat. wood bar & stools, $50 White/nat.wood shelves,$15 each Pier 1 bowl chair, $25 All in great shape but must go! 247-6252 Old hunter ceiling fans. Excellent condition with original blades $100 Call 488-4111 RelocationSale: Upscale Pieces - Only 3 yrs old. Dark Olive grn suede like fabric sofa & chair w/ottoman , mahogany 4 drawer chest, & 2 drwr nt stand $400, Bernhardt Iron King Size Canopy Bed $1,700 w/ mattress & box springs, foyer glass table w/mirror $225, sofa glass table $199, overstuff chase lounge w/ ottoman, beige $600, beveled glass mirror $375, lamp blk shade/pewter base $175, lrg clay pots & 2 sm clay pots $75.

917-981-8265 or 985-645-0603.

••STEREO ENTERTAINMENT CENTER•• $45!!!

SPORTS EQUIPMENT

Great condition. Room for cd’s on each side, 3 shelves n middle. Can hold a stereo or can be turned into a small bar.

Medium size. $45. Call 432-2561

8’ Brunswick “Montebello” Pool Table, solid wood-mahogany stain. $4000 or best offer. Original price: $8999. Call Anna 504/251-1850.

Sturdy silvertone metal Daybed w/ mattress $99. Call 288-6577.

TV/VCR/STEREO

Unique 60’s Formica (beige) top table.

Triangle table 2 ft high, 3 legs $100 call 400-2604 Unique SW style Cast Iron/Wood, 4 Poster, Queen Bed Frame, orig $1000, $350 obo. Juki Industrial Sewing Machine, pd $1200 new, $500 obo.

504/897-5177 lv msg.

SALON EQUIPMENT Takara Belmont Salon equipment. 5 styling chairs, 1 solace foot spa, 2 euro shampoo shuttles, plus accessories. Very good working order. $4000 OBO. 504606-5086 Three bulb Infra Red Professional Hair Drying Lamp w/wheeled base $75 Patti @ 484-7245

JEWELRY Don’t sell your new, old, or broken jewelry until you call Audler’s. 454-7882

WE BUY JEWELRY!

Diamonds, engagement rings, Rolex, old gold & broken jewelry, silverware, U.S. coins, old costume jewelry, Mardi Gras doubloon collections. Chris’ Fine Jewelry, 3304 W. Esplanade, Metairie. 833-2556.

MEDICAL Adjustable hospital type bed for sale. $60.00 OBO. Call 866-8734.

STAIR CHAIR LIFT

Acorn Superglide 120 chair lift with enough track to span 18 steps. Used for about 18 months. Works perfectly.

Mounts on right side of steps. Can be operated manually or with remote control.

Sells new $2500, asking $1250 OBO. Call 985-871-7151.

Panasonic Big Screen Television. Excellent condition. Asking $450 call 301-1388

MISC. FOR SALE Aluminum sign 4ft x 9ft $75 Ready to repaint and hang no rust or dents 2698256 Barrell Barbecue Grills, handcrafted. Iron Doors & Gates. Call Cornell 450-4465.

CONTENTS OF WORKSHOP: Shopsmith 500 with all acces, vertical saw, planer, router, joiner, jigsaw, air compressor, etc.

Call for prices, 899-3077.

DVD- 1946 Disney “Song of the South” $25 504-833-0357 Ecolab comm wash machine liquids (3) and trays (4), $50 504-931-0954 Heavy Aluminum aerial antenna pole. 1 3/4” x 12’. Perfect condition. $20 8610615 Moving! Kenmore 4 burner stove $100; large igloo dog house $20; cypress swing with A-frame $100 Call 484-7247 Portable dance floor. 9x9 2”H. (9) 3 foot sections. Easily assembled. 865-1834 Record Album Collection of Merle Haggard, Conway Twitty , Eddy Arnold, Porter Wagner, Buck Owens, etc $2 each 861-0615 shower helper chair, good cond. $25. singer portable sewing machine, wood base, good also $25. 456-7127

STAIR CHAIR LIFT

Acorn Superglide 120 chair lift with enough track to span 18 steps. Used for about 18 months. Works perfectly.

Mounts on right side of steps. Can be operated manually or with remote control.

Sells new $2500, asking $1250 OBO. Call 985-871-7151.

MUSIC/INSTRUMENTS LIQUIDATION: PRE-OWNED YAHMAHA GRANDS & UPRIGHTS. Excellent cond.

Like new. 985-542-7090

RESTAURANT/BAR EQUIP SS Vegetable Slicer, make onion mums, slice onions & tomatoes. View @: lincolnredcoat.com. 3/$100 ea. Call 269-8256

MERCHANDISE WANTED PAYING TOP DOLLAR! Buying: Gold Jewelry, Diamonds, Rolex, Silverware, U.S. Coins, Old Gold & Broken Jewelry, Old Costume Jewelry & Mardi Gras Doubloon Collections. Chris’ Fine Jewelry, 3304 W Esplanade, Call 8332556.

GW

EMPLOYMENT

TO ADVERTISE CALL

EMPLOYMENT GOVERNMENT JOBS

Earn $12-$48/hour. Available with full medical/dental benefits, and paid training on clerical, administrative, law enforcement, homeland security, wildlife, more!

1-800-320-9353 ext. 2001 (AAN CAN)

NEW REAL LIFE TV

series seeks people struggling with painful compulsions; shopaholics, eating disorders, gang members, gamblers, steroid users. Please visit www.newdocudrama.com for information.

(AAN CAN)

CAREER PREPARATION

AUDITIONS CONTESTANTS WANTED

483-3100

FAX

483-3153

CHILDCARE CHILDCARE / DRIVER

For nude photography. No experience needed. Be at least 18 & in good shape.

Call 504/554-5039

FEMALE MODELS

BEAUTY SALONS/SPAS

Needed for two toddlers, approximately 30 hours a week. Call 251-1234.

A Class Of Its Own Salon

Gentilly area. Seeking Barber, Hair Sylist & Nail Tech. 3 month special on booth rental. 949-5105 or 289-0873.

PT FRONT DESK ASSOC

Busy Fr Qtr salon/spa seeks reliable individual committed to providing quality customer service. Room for growth. Call Eclipse @ 522-3318.

EXPERIENCED NANNY

CLERICAL MELIUS BAR & CAFE

Office help needed Tues - Fri, 11-7:30pm.

Call Tim in the mornings @ 237-7051.

Artkeep, Inc. needs all natural female models between 18-23 for adult internet website work.

Earn $300-$500 daily, 2 shoot minimum. Portfolio at: http://tinyurl.com/ysf4c 800/531-3687 jonbarry@whoppermail.com

RECEPTIONIST/SECRETARY

FEMALE MODELS

Small, dynamic real estate company near French Quarter seeking receptionist/secretary. Nice salary & benefits. Call Robert Fulton, 949-5400 weekdays between 3 & 4 pm.

DRIVERS/DELIVERY DELIVERY DRIVER

Apply at Voodoo BBQ. 1501 St. Charles Avenue Between 2 - 4 pm, Monday - Friday.

ENTERTAINMENT COME SEE THE CARIBBEAN

Jobs on cruise ships. Various positions avail. Email resume: info@nlm-ipn.com Fax 1-613-248-6671 Attn: Rebecca Hardy; www.nlm-ipn.com.

Promo co has 15 openings for promos & events w/ offices for adv. Get paid to have fun, meet people & work w/ prof clients.

Paid training from day one. Contact Candice 835-9476.

FEMALE MODELS - $60/Hr

Needed for part time help. Must have own car. Call Rita at 917-447-5526 or 504-8974515.

The nation’s leader in test prep, is looking for a part time office worker in our Uptown office. Person must be available 9am-1pm, Monday-Friday. General office work. Must be customer focused, organized, reliable, able to multi-task. $10 per hour. Experience not necessary, will train.

Please email resume to sadien@review.com.

CALL THIS ONE!!!

MODELING/ACTING

for Reality Television 1-416-414-0852 www.nlm-ipn.com Serious applicants apply.

THE PRINCETON REVIEW

ADVERTISING/MARKETING

E M A I L classadv@gambitweekly.com

GROCERY CONVENIENCE STORE

Artkeep, Inc. needs all natural female models between 18-23 for adult internet website work.

Earn $300-$500 daily, 2 shoot minimum. Portfolio at: http://tinyurl.com/ysf4c 800/531-3687 jonbarry@whoppermail.com

LINGERIE MODELS

Female models. 18 + yrs old for wkly.

Modeling/sales work. Great $$. Exp. not nec. 259-3001

PROFESSIONAL

ARTS PERFORMANCE MGR

Organization & comprehensive coordination of productions & events in an arts & education setting. Req qualifications: exp. in event and production planning, knowledge of production in music, visual arts, and theatre, excellent communication and writing skills. Letter of interest and résumé to NOCCA | Riverfront, Human Resources, 2800 Chartres Street, New Orleans, LA 70117 by August 26, 2005.

Details at nocca.com

RETAIL BIG BUCKS FOR FRAMERS

Exp pref’d or an art background exceptable. Please call to schedule appointment.

504-522-6536

F.Q. LADIES RETAIL

Ladies Quarter seeks experienced retail salesperson, FT or PT opening. Apply @ 232 Royal St. Brian 522-7139

FQ JR CLOTHING STORE

Hiring all locations. Clothing, Shoes & Accessories. Sales Assoc, F/ T & P/T, students welcome. Fax resume 523-4037

FRIENDLY FACES WANTED

LINGERIE MODELS

Needed for in-store modeling. No experience needed. For more information call 504-367-7577.

Now accepting applications for several full & part time positions. Must be motivated, hard working & friendly. Retail experience a plus. Apply in person Mon-Fri, 12-5pm only, Southern Candymakers, 334 Decatur.

PART TIME

PART TIME SALES CLERK

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Top student graphic designer, 1 time job, immediate $200. Call 296-0810. WEB DESIGN WORK ALSO AVAILABLE DEPENDING ON SKILL SET

French Quarter Candy Store looking for an enthusiastic SALES PERSON. Call 5253880 btwn 9 AM - 5 PM.

THE DARK ENTRY

Full Time Sales, No Slackers. Apply in person Mon - Fri, noon - 5pm @ 516 Bourbon.

The World’s Best Toys

is looking for sales help at our New Orleans and Metairie locations. Call 8281575 or fax resume 828-1576

in French Quarter looking for experienced Cashiers. Must be able to work days/nights, over 21 and drug free. Call 410-2335, FAX 525-2534 or email: jobs@karnocompanies.com for an interview.

HEALTH/FITNESS

LANDSCAPING TREE MEDICS

ANIMAL CARE/VETERINARY

Tree climbers & ground workers. DL & HS diploma a must. $8 to $14/hr starting.

No phone calls. Apply 9-11a & 2-4p. 3518 Broadway, New Orleans, LA.

LOCKSMITH NATIONAL SECURITY FIRM

Now hiring Full and Part Time experienced locksmiths in N.O., LA. Guaranteed $75k F/T plus bonus & commissions. Auto, residential and commercial positions available. Must have own vehicle & tools.

Excellent opportunity. Call Gary at 504473-0582 or fax resume to 504-581-5015

MEDICAL PRACTICE MANAGER ASST

To assist with daily functions of busy uptown medical practice. Send resume to: PMB205, 5721 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70115. www.bestofneworleans.com | August 30, 2005 | Gambit Weekly

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TO ADVERT ISE CALL

483-3100

FAX

483-3153

RETAIL

GW

EMPLOYMENT

ADOPTIONS ADOPTION

We’re a loving, sincere and secure couple who dreams of adopting your newborn. Expenses paid. ELENA & PETER 1-800-448-2934

PREGNANT? CONSIDERING ADOPTION?

We can help! Full service nationwide specializing in matching families with birth mothers. TOLL FREE 24 hours a day 866-921-0565. ONE TRUE GIFT ADOPTIONS. (AAN CAN)

GW

EMAIL

classadv@gambitweekly.com

HOSPITALITY&RESTAURANT

RESTAURANT/HOTEL/BAR BARRECA’S RESTAURANT

Now hiring: Waitstaff, Host/Hostess, Line Cooks & Bartender.

Apply 3100 Metairie Road. From 9am11am & 3-5pm Tuesday - Friday.

CAFE BEIGNET • HIRING

Hiring: Cooks, Dishwashers, Counter person, Bartenders & Cocktail waitresses.

Apply 334 B-Royal St., 819 Decatur & 311 Bourbon St.

TEACHERS/INSTRUCTORS

EXPERIENCED WORKERS

VOLUNTEER

LINE COOK & SERVER needed. Apply in person only Tues. - Friday, 2 - 4 pm.

Vincent’s 4411 Chastant St., Met. LA.

GABRIELLE RESTAURANT

Seeks Exp. Wait staff & Am Chef and Prep Cook. Apply in person Tue-Thur. 2pm4pm. 3201 Esplanade Ave.

NEW YORK PIZZA LEGAL NOTICES

DRINKERS

Now hiring. Waitstaff, Drivers, Cooks.

Apply Tue-Fri, 2p-5p. 208 N. Carrollton.

No Phone Calls Please.

Service Industry Drinkers wanted to drink $2 Jager & Jameson, $2 Well & $2 Beers.

Open-Close, Sun-Wed. Always Free Pool, Darts and Ping Pong in ctyd. Apply in person at Deep South Lounge, 329 Decatur St.

TRADE/SKILLS CARPENTER / PAINTER

Wanted for historical renovation. Must be experience. Fax references to 504-5228232.

CHAMPAGNE OF CARPENTERS

Experienced, transportation, and hand tools a must. Please call 504-899-8381

Electric Coil Technicians Needed

To operate new, innovative flat coil equipment. FT positions requiring 36-48 hrs/week. Computer skills a must!

Benefits package includes medical, vacation & 401k. Send resume: #394-7524 (fax) or LRUSSETT@KENCOIL.COM

MEDIA MAKE-UP ARTISTS

Earn up to $500/day for television, CD/videos, film, fashion. One week course in Los Angeles while building portfolio. Brochure 310-364-0665. www.MediaMakeupArtists.com (AAN CAN)

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY

Fun & exciting French Quarter live music nightclubs are accepting applications for outgoing and friendly experienced club managers, waiters, bartenders, DJ’s, MC’s, barbacks & porters with good work ethics. Must be 18 or older & drug free.

Part Time/Full Time. Call 410-2335 or FAX resume to 525-2534 or email: jobs@karnocompanies.com for an interview.

PLUMBER NEEDED

For new construction & remodeling.

Must have a minimum of 5 years experience. Paid holidays. 504-738-9393

THE PLANT GALLERY CURRENT JOB OPENINGS

* FLORAL DRIVER * NURSERY WORKER * EVENT RENTAL DRIVER and SETUP Experience required, clean driving record.

Apply within, 9401 Airline Hwy. 4888887 Fax 488-8890

WAREHOUSE HANDYMAN P/T NEEDED

Warehouse maintenance, lawncare, cleaning @$50 day, ref. req.

504.822.4002 email: arteggstudios@aol.com

POSITIONS WANTED NEED A PERSONAL ASST?

Whatever you need, I can help. Grocery shopping, walking the dog, drycleaning or getting organized. Anything.

Anywhere. Anytime. $25/hr. Call Victoria 450-3411

MISCELLANEOUS

RESTAURANTS/LOUNGES

RESTAURANT STAFF - 2 established French Quarter restaurants are building staff for Lunch & Dinner business and accepting applications for COOKS, PREP COOKS, DISHROOM, WAITSTAFF & SERVICE BARTENDERS. Must have a minimum of 5 years experience, over 21, drug free and have a clean record. Call 410-2335. Fax resume to: 504-525-2534 or email: jobs@karnocompanies.com for an interview.

• ROYAL BLEND •

Hiring: Full-Time Counter help. Day & evenings. Apply in person: Only at 204 Metairie Road.

$996 WEEKLY INCOME

mailing our sales brochures from home.

Genuine opportunity. No personal selling or advertising. Supplies provided. $50 sign up bonus. Call 1- 702- 988-0357 (24 hours) (AAN CAN)

UP TO $4000 WEEKLY!

11 Year Nationwide Company Now Hiring! Easy work, sending out our simple one page brochure! Free Postage, Supplies! FREE INFORMATION, CALL NOW! 1-800-242-0363 Ext.4200 (AAN CAN)

WORK FROM HOME ONLINE

Start your own Internet Business FREE. Make Money 24 hrs a day with our fully automated system. www.automaticbuilder.com/13518

PAID IN ADVANCE

$1000 +/wk stuffing envelopes @ home. earn $4/envlp. Guaranteed!

100% legit www.stuffingformoney.com

112 |

EXPERIENCED NIGHTCLUB MANAGERS, WAITERS, BARTENDERS, DJ’s, MC’s, BARBACKS & PORTERS

Gambit Weekly | August 30, 2005 | www.bestofneworleans.com

WAREHOUSE DIST PIZZA Seeking Delivery Person & Pizza Maker. Apply in person at 1068 Magazine.

➣

GW

EMPLOYMENT

TO ADVERTISE CALL

483-3100

FAX

483-3153

E M A I L classadv@gambitweekly.com

GW

PET EMPORIUM

You could call me Spot, but the call me Gracie! I’m 10 weeks old and pure NOLA dog. Come get me! www.southernanimalfoundation.org or call 671-8235 “Sweetie” Schnauzer, 7 yrs old, healthy,shots,spayed, house trained, loves kids, dogs, cats, owner died 4828379 “Pepper”, German Shorthair Pointer mix, approx 1 yr.,playful, likes dogs, loves to cuddle,female,spayed,shots house trained 482-8379

PET SITTING GET ROYAL TREATMENT

for your pet. Dog walking, pet & house sitting. Call 495-9689, lka302001@yahoo.com

PETS FOR SALE 6 (total) male and female Sugar Gliders. $150 each. Call 348-8470 or 234-1236 Brussels Griffon puppies & adult female.

Also, adult toy poodles. 1 black, 1 white.

Call 850-623-1521, 850-748-0833

PETS CAT SPAY & NEUTER SALE!

boy cat neuters $25; girl cat spays $25; wild cat spays and neuters $25; until October 1.. $25 at MARIGNY VETERINARY call 620-1081

LOST/FOUND PETS Found! A sweet older dog with a blue collar (no tag) followed me home from the corner of Broad and Esplanade. She is incredibly sweet and well-behaved. I can’t keep her because dogs aren’t allowed at my apartment. Please claim or adopt her. I have a picture of her.

Please email me at jade36@comcast.net

PET ADOPTIONS Angel~super sweet, longhair mini-cat @ 1yr Spayed/shots/tested/ $50 4335759 Bagel with no cream cheese. Check me out, a terrier mix puppy at www.southernanimalfoundation.org or call 504-671-8235 BON JOVI - MALE BOXER MIX, 5 1/2 MONTHS OLD. SUPER SWEET, GREAT DISPOSITION, LOVES CHILDREN, GOOD WITH CATS AND OTHER DOGS. VERY CALM AND GENTLE - HAS THE GREAT QUALITIES OF A THERAPY DOG. NEUTERED, VACCINES, MICROCHIP. PLEASE VIEW HIM ON VETADOPTIONS@COX.NET. Brutus pure breed blk lab. retriever.

Hsbkn, neutered. Beautiful, wonderful, sweet and affectionate 482-8379

Dottie Dalmatian/Lab 52#’s very calm and obedient, Great companion VetCk/Shots/ spayed/Hsbkn/Rescue 831-9345 FOSTER PARENTS DESPERATELY NEEDED FOR DOGS & CATS! ALL ARE VET CHECKED – HAVE ALL SHOTS AND ARE SPAYED OR NEUTERED & COME WITH ALL FOOD & ANY MEDICAL SUPPLIES. CALL 831-5971 Free lab mix to good home. Pipin, a 1 1/2 year old brown and black lab mix.

Has all his shots and is very friendly and family oriented dog. Call Mike at 5540193 JASMINE & STAR, SHEPHERD MIX, Sweet, Vet Ck/Spayed/Hsbnk/Microchip/Rescue 734-7349 See: arfl.petfinder.org LOLA, BOSTON TERRIER, Sweet, Vet Ck/Spayed/Hsbkn/Microchip/Rescue 889-l614. See: arfl.petfinder.org MATILDA LOUISE, RAT TERRIER, Vet Ck/Spayed/Hsbkn/Microchip/Rescue 889-l614 See: arfl.petfinder.org

SUPPLIES/SERVICES Large iron white parrot cage W/ rollers & play station on top $100 call 250-1506 New doghouse for sale. Custom built for a large dog Asking $95 Call 504-4661764

Mocha Latte, hold the sugar because I’m already so sweet! 1 year old boxer mix, spayed, vaccinated and ready to come to your house! Go to www.southernanimalfoundation.org for an application or call 504-671-8235 REMY - Ragdoll mix, Male, 10 weeks old.

Sweet, little lap cat with plenty wonderful personality. Very gentle. View him and other kittens on www.va.petfinder.com Sarah- Walker hound, 2 year old female, 40 lbs. Spayed, current on all vaccines, hw negative, very sweet disposition. Good w/ children. Plays well w/ other dogs.

Please view her on www.va.petfinder.com. Call 504-8956838 for more information

Cash Money. I’m young, fun, crate trained German Shepherd mix. Call 504671-8235 for more information and an application.

Scarlet, Siamese Mix, “Purr”fect pet. Vet Ck/Shots/Spayed/Litter Box TrainedRescue 831-9345

Perfect yellow smaller Labrador mix is looking for you! Check out Charli at www.southernanimalfoundation.org or call 504-671-8235

SCARLET, SIAMESE/HIMALAYAN MIX, Purr fect Vet Ck/Shots/Spayed/Litter Bx Train/Rescue 831-9345 See: arfl.petfinder.org

CHICO - Australian Shep. Mix, 6 month old male, neutered, all vaccines, microchipped. Gorgeous coat and plenty of personality - loves to run - perfect personal trainer for any jogger. View him on www.va.petfinder.com

Sheba German Shep Wantabe 30#’s of snuggle. Vet Ck/ Shots/Spayed/Hsbkn/Rescue 460-0136

COOKIE AND OREO - Shih Tzu sister and brother, 4 yrs. old. Spayed/neutered, all vaccines, housebroken. Little angels that would like to stay together. View them on www.va.petfinder.com

Poodle Toy CKC. 7 months, apricot, male, shots & wormed. $350. 504-2353091 / 504-433-2115

Siamese mix 18 week old siblings, Sid and Nancy, want to play at your house!

Go to www.southernanimalfoundation.org for an application or call 504-671-8235 SWEETIE, WHITE SHEPHERD MIX, Vet Ck/Spayed/Hsbkn/Rescue 283-7340 arfl.petfinder.org www.bestofneworleans.com | August 30, 2005 | Gambit Weekly

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GW REAL

TO ADVERTISE CALL

483-3100

FAX

ESTATE

483-3153

E M A I L classadv@gambitweekly.com

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE CONDOMINIUMS AVANT GARDE CONDO

2 Bedroom, 1.5 Bath. Jacuzzi, screened porch, completely renovated. Agents protected. $139,900. 504-722-9974

FOR SALE: BUCKTOWN CONDOS

on the Lake. Own for less than rent. 1 Bedroom 1 Bath, 1516 Aztec Avenue.

Complete high end renovation. Open 1-4 Sundays. Only 16 units left. Agents protected. Never will you be able to own property on the lake at these prices. $129,900. 504-722-9974, 504-779-7324

GENERAL REAL ESTATE

2340 Dauphine Street New Orleans, LA 70117 (504) 944-3605

KENNER AVANT GARDE CONDO

Stunning 3 Bedroom Loft, 2 Bath.

Fireplace, wood, tile, jacuzzi, skylites, screened porch. Completely renovated.

Everything is new. Agents protected. $159,900. 504-722-9974

METAIRIE

OLD METAIRIE

121 MARYLAND DR

Off Met Rd, 3 br, 2 ba, 1750 sq ft. Ready to move in. A must see! $360K. For info, call 484-7689.

114 |

Gambit Weekly | August 30, 2005 | www.bestofneworleans.com

2340 Dauphine Street New Orleans, LA 70117 (504) 944-3605

TO ADVERT ISE CALL

483-3100

FAX

483-3153

GW

REAL ESTATE

EMAIL

classadv@gambitweekly.com

5026-28 ANNUNCIATION

OLD METAIRIE

1600 sq ft double, high ceil, cen a/h, updated plumbing & electrical. $185,000.

Owner/Agent. 504-261-6934.

7912 WILLOW

Stunning pwr wrought iron gates, gas lamps, stained glass, crystal chandeliers, all brick yd, lush lndscpng, 11’ crown, renov, wd flrs, 5 mrbl frplcs, off st dual drvwys, crprt, 4br, 3.5ba, conv accessible loc, lrg sgl family or w/$17k income, sm apt, generator bkup, sec, bsmnt, etc. $597K. 866-2777

WAREHOUSE DISTRICT COTTON MILL CONDO

BYWATER

Unit 310, 898 sf, 1 br, 2 ba loft, ctyd view, hdwd flrs, pool, fitness, 24 hr courtesy guard. $225K. For info call MiMi, Elizabeth or Erin, 410-1515. TALBOT REALTY GROUP.

1 OFFICE WAREHOUSE

Secure masonry bldg, for sale all or part, 9000 sf inside, 10,000 sf outside, partial ac, walk-in vault, truck well, alarm & more. Mary Lind 874-4905 Later & Blum

MID-CITY RENOVATION IN PROGRESS

COMMERCIAL PROPERTIES

3425 Palmyra. Lg Vict dbl. New plmg/elec/roof/paint/ drywall/etc. $239K. You finish & save $$ or I finish.

908-4663.

ESPLANADE RIDGE 1479 N. JOHNSON

Renov 2 BR cottage, cen a/h, ceil fans, w/d hk ups, pkg for 2 cars. $118K. Call Mildred 289-9232

FRENCH QUARTER/FAUBOURG MARIGNY

TREME 1 BR CONDO FOR SALE BY OWNER

Just off Esplanade Avenue, a short walk to French Quarter. Newly remodeled, wood flrs, oak cabinets, ceramic tile, new carpet, all new appliances, off st parking, laundry, owner will pay closing cost. $89,000. 895-9750

MARAIS STREET JEWEL

Side hall cottage 1 blk off Esplanade Ave w/off st pkg & camelback apt. Side porch overlooks lg yd w/above ground pool. Otis Fennell, 504-947-3700.

GENTILLY OPEN SUNDAY 2 - 4 PM

UPTOWN/GARDEN DISTRICT 2216-18 CADIZ ST

4774 MANDEVILLE ST. Large home. Must see to appreciate. 4 BR / 5 BA. In ground pool. lots of amenities. Over 3300sf liv. $325K. 282-7435

Hdwd/tile flrs, ac/heat units, ea side has 2 br, 1 ba, fncd yd, wtr pd. 2218 has an extra rm that could be a 3rd bdrm or office. Lot 29x120. By appt only. $189,000. Call Rowena Christensen, tommy crane inc. 895-2527 or 259-0635

LAKEVIEW/LAKESHORE 6515 WEST END BLVD.

3809 ANNUNCIATION

Charming, 3 BR/2BA Cottage. All hdwd flrs, new kitchen w/granite, alarm, fenced yard, shaded decks, lush landscaping.

Exc, move-in cond. Priced to Sell. $275K. FSBO. No agents, please. Call Lee for Appt. 504-482-7473

Ground up renovation, 3 BR, 2 BA, 1845 sqft. Call Fred 952-4968. $245K. Keller Williams N.O. 862-0100

4811-15 TCHOUPITOULAS

Historic shtgn sngl w/camelback, studio apt, & cottage on dbl lot. Renov, grt area, zoned mixed use. All 4 units rented. $429K! FSBO. 258-0070 www.bestofneworleans.com | August 30, 2005 | Gambit Weekly

| 115

TO ADVERT ISE CALL

483-3100

FAX

483-3153

GW

REAL ESTATE

EMAIL

classadv@gambitweekly.com BYWATER 1/2 DBL - 734 FRANCE ST

Nice 1 bdrm, new kitchen, liv rm, den, hdwd flrs, porch, cen a/h, shared off st prkg, $625/mo. Call 491-0694.

6226 N RAMPART ST

1/2 dbl, 2 bedroom, 1 bath, laundry rm, porch, lrg yard, no pets, $525+deposit.

Sec 8 welcome. 504/289-0873.

829 MAZANT ST

Renov dbl, 3 br, 2 ba, new appls, cen a/h, hi ceil, hdwd flrs, w/d, wtr pd. $950/mo • 400-3890.

CARROLLTON 2 STRY CARRIAGE HOUSE

1200sf, 2 br, 1.5 ba, newly renov, furn kitc, w/d, on st car line. 8119 SPRUCE ST. $895/mo. 319-5983

8435 APRICOT ST

ATTN: Graduate Students! 2 br, 1 ba, furn kit, spac closets & rms, near univs, quiet area. $675 • 236-3383.

CITY PARK/BAYOU ST. JOHN 1221 N DUPRE

Great shotgun dbl in prime loc w/garden tub. Newly renov. Walk to CC’s & restrnts. $850/mo. Wendy, 504-462-0044.

1Br, 4012 ORLEANS AVE

Water & cable pd, free laundry, new appls, walk to Park or Bayou. On Canal stcar line. $500, 895-8264

1BR, LR, OFC, KIT, BA

KENNER RUE CHARDONNAY CONDO

Liv rm, w/frplc, din rm w/ wet bar, 2 BR, mstr 14 x 25 w/frplc, lg closets, 3 full BA, appls w/ W/D, pool & tennis. Exc loc. $1250/mo + dep & lease. Sandy 259-2616

METAIRIE 3408 N. WOODLAWN

Heart of Metairie. 3/1.5 dbl, new appls, 1000 sq ft. Lg kit, w/d hk ups, new carpet & paint. No pets, smokers, or Sec. 8. Avail after Labor Day. $800/mo + dep.

837-5200 after 6.

BUSINESSES

CAUSEWAY & I 10

Beautiful pool view 1 BR 1 BA condo. Sec gates, w/d, dishwasher, micro. $500/mo + $500/dep. 1 yr lse. 296-5601

GREAT LOCATION

1 BR 1 BA condo. Wd laminate flrs, vaulted ceil, w/d & appls included. Wtr pd. No pets. $575/mo + dep.

421-7036

FOR LEASE IN JEFFERSON

Office/warehouse located on Orleans/Jefferson Parish line. 2500 sq ft warehouse w/ 400 sq ft office. 2 10 x 12 roll up doors. Security sys, zoned R1.

Yearly lease. $1250/mo. 504-554-9105

HARAHAN/RIVER RIDGE ON THE LEVEE

REAL ESTATE FOR RENT

9305 River Ln, 4 bdrm, 2 bath home, furn kitchen, 1600 sf, w/d, cen a/h, workshop, lrg yd, pets welcome. $1350/mo. Avail now. 782-8854

SPECIAL EVENT RENTALS A NICE PLACE FOR NICE PEOPLE

RIVER RIDGE DUPLEX

1930 Canal St Guesthouse. $165 per wk & Up: Clean, a/c, refrig. Walk to French Qtr. (504) 266-1930 http://BestGuesthouse.com

Newly renov, 2 bedroom, 2 bath, 1100 sf, all electric, alam system. $750/mo. Call 225/572-7459.

UPTOWN GUEST HOUSE

Year round availability. Daily, weekly, monthly. Rooms & suites, $65 - Up. www.hoovermanor.com or (504) 2699555

CORPORATE RENTALS 3 Corporate Cottages

Historic Fr Qtr, Uptn, City Pk. 1, 2 & 3 brs. Beautiful cottages loaded w/amen incls wireless internet.

504-259-3030

PREMIUM LOCATION

available in Riverwalk Marketplace. 750 sq ft. Call 732-768-4145 for more info.

116 |

COMMERCIAL RENTALS A+ LOCATION Store-front space in wonderful building on Oak Street near Carrollton. Wide-open floor plan with 16 ft ceilings. Great visibility. Site of filming for “All the King’s Men”. Approx 2,500-3,000 sf. Flexible landlord. Call 899-RENT.

JEFFERSON NEAR OCHSNER HOSPITAL

Neat, small 1 Bedroom + study. Off st pkg. No pets or smokers. $800/mo.

Refs. 504-887-6707

NEAR OSCHNER HOSPITAL

38 David Blvd, Rio Vista nb’’hood, 2 br, 1 ba, new appls, wd flrs, renov, fncd yd, $850. 305/294-3815, 835-4158

GARDEN DIST OFC SPACE Great location 1/2 block off St Charles on Jackson Ave (river side). New Management. Well maintained building convenient to Uptown, Downtown and I10. Several office suites from 500-5000 sq ft. Utilities paid. Short term lease may be available. Call 899-RENT.

Gambit Weekly | August 30, 2005 | www.bestofneworleans.com

MAURICE GUILLOT PROP MLS LINK www.mauriceguillot.com 504-736-0544

OLD METAIRIE 101 STELLA

DEAL IN OLD METAIRIE

Small Upr renov, partially furn, nr coffee houses & shopping, balc. $650. Wtr pd, yr lse + dep. 486-7793

GREAT DEAL & LOCATION

Lovely Victorian. Great nghb’d, pocket drs, hdwd flrs, hi ceils, mantles, cen a/h, alarm sys, was owner’s unit. Pets nego. $975/mo + dep. 504-957-9445

Furn or Unfurn 3 BR 2 BA. Hdwd floors, granite countertops, cen a/h, garage, fenced yard, beautiful garden, etc. $1600. Pets ok. 831-7861 1br, 1ba, furn kit, extra rm/office, w/d, walk in clst. No pets. $475/mo incls wtr, gas, cable. 504-559-3873

LUXURY TOWNHOUSE

237 METAIRIE HGTS. 3 BR, 2.5 BA, dbl size LR, DR & lg kit, renov like new, 1 blk off Met. Rd. $1395. 430-2112

ALGIERS NEAR HOLY CROSS

2 BEDROOM CAMELBACK

2724 BELL STREET

Less than a block to CC’s. Large, open studio/1 BDRM, washer & dryer, /w, dbl French doors open to yard. Gas & water incl. $750/mo. Call 220-4663

2821 ESPLANADE AVE

Across from CC’s. 1 BR 1 BA. Newly renov very large $850. 1 BR 1 BA. $550.

Call 525-6635.

3 BLKS FROM BAYOU

Looking for quiet, mature non-smoker to share home w/ 2 middle age male professionals. $575/mo. Call 722-7778.

Renov. 1/2 shotgun, 4 rms + kit, d/w, 1 ba-tile, cen a/h, alarm, hdwd flrs, gated front yard, fenced bkyard. $1100/mo.

Pets o.k. 3026 Desoto St. 250-7565

ALGIERS POINT 320 - 322 WHITNEY AVE

Great loc, Jazz Fest, St Car, Museum, Celebration in the Oaks, Endymion parade. 1/2 dbl, 1700sf, 3 br, 2 ba, 11ft ceil, c a/h, hdwd flrs, furn kit, w/d hkps, balc, bk yd & 1 off st pkg . Avail 8/1, $1400/mo. 259-0879

Completely renov lg 2 br, 1 ba, all new appliances, off st prkg, close to Ferry.

Both @ $700/mo. 896-8190

338 ELMIRA AVE

Lovely, spacious 3 BR 1 BA. Hdwd flrs, ceramic tile, off st pkg, fenced yd, freshly painted. $900/mo + dep. 270-3764

3999 DUMAINE STREET

4310 DUMAINE

Renov. 2 br, 1 ba, lr, dr, furn kit, cen a/h, hdwd flrs, ceil fans, yd, Pets o.k. $825/mo, 616-6665

Near shopping on Met Rd. Fully renov large 3 br, 1.5 ba, lr, dr, all new appls in kit, rooftop deck, wd flrs, cen a/h, w/d, $1400 • 439-1177

431 PACIFIC AVE

2 bdrms, 1 ba, 1000 sf ft, all appls, cen a/h, w/d, alarm. $700/mo. Call Eric 533-7963 day or 227-9049 evening.

2 bedrooms, 1 bath with off street parking. $775/mo. Call 324-3817.

#2 ORPHEUM 2 BR, 1 BA

EXEC RIVERFRONT CONDO

507 PASSERA CT

Recently Renov. Beau nb’hood. New appls, cen a/h, crown moulding, off st prkg. $1200/mo, 250-4146

206 E. MAPLE RIDGE DR

1,000 sf house, 3 BR, 1 BA, quiet, hdwd flrs, w/d hkps, large yard, $800/mo.

834-8866 (w) / 885-6528 (h)

433 METAIRIE HEIGHTS

Completely renov, lrg home, 3 br, 2 ba, furn kit, cen a/h, w/d, easy access to I10, $1275/mo. Call 866-3469.

5th flr covered balcony w/ million $$ views. Spacious 2 BR 2.5 BA. Large kit open to views w/ bar. Hi ceils, marble flrs, baths, & master jacuzzi tub. Secured bldg w/ covered pkg. Wtr & cable included. Next to FQ ferry. $1700/mo + dep. Contact David 228-229-6373

MAURICE GUILLOT PROP MLS LINK www.mauriceguillot.com 504-736-0544

4600 S CARROLLTON

Beautiful 2 BR 1 BA shotgun. 2 blocks from City Park. Hardwood floors. $750/mo. Call Rhett 583-4848

606 N HENNESEY

1 bdrm, 1 bath, liv rm, din rm, furn kit, w/d, fncd yard, water paid, $750/mo.

Call 484-7879.

860 TAFT PLACE

2-3 bdrms, washer/dryer, cen a/h, nice yard, porch, quiet nb’hood, $850/mo+deposit. Call 482-3769.

TO ADVERT ISE CALL

CITY PARK/BAYOU ST. JOHN 880 CITY PARK AVE

Efficiency. High ceilings, wood flrs, off st pkg. Gas, water & trash pick-up paid. $485/mo + dep. 482-0280.

ACROSS FROM CC’s

Two 1 br apts on Esplanade w/parklike grounds. Both recently renov, furn kits with d/w, water pd. • One overlooks ctyd w/lots of light, hdwd flrs, hi ceil, $700/mo. • Other has granite c’tops, exposed brick, cen a/h, w/d, $800/mo.

259-2362.

FURN VICTORIAN RM

Nr Jazz Fst, renov, priv ent, priv ba, patio, utils, micro, fridge, hi sp net, cable TV, $475. also avail wkly. 236-1087

483-3100

FAX

483-3153

HEART OF FRENCH QTR

Large 1 Bedroom with Loft, 1 Bath, washer & dryer, central air & heat, $1400/mo. 985-630-6686

ROYAL ST LUXURY APT

Large 2 BR 2 BA, steps to Frenchman St. Cen a/h, balcony, security system. Pets welcome. Avail now. $1195/mo + dep.

259-6554, 909-0768.

SPACIOUS 1 BEDROOM

Bath on Royal St. Furn kitchen, central a/h, gated entrance. Pets o.k. $850/mo.

Call 522-0155

STEPS FROM QUARTER

1129 URSULINES St. 2 BR, 2 BA, comp rm, wood flrs, cen a/h, w/d, 1000 + sq ft. $1100/mo. 985-630-6686

LOTS OF CHARM

Nicely renov 1 or 2 br, 1 ba, lg liv rm, kit w/appls, d/w, cer/hdwd flrs, good closets, fans, cen a/h, off st pkg. Near City Park. $800/mo. 884-6276 or 8848844.

GW

REAL ESTATE

MID CITY 125 S CORTEZ ST- $700

1/2 blk to Canal, 2 br, lr, dr, kit, wd flr, hi ceil w/ fan, ac, w/d hkp, frplc. Grt nb’hood. Ref reqd. 482-3914

132 N CORTEZ

1 bdrm, 1 bath, 2nd flr, window ac, porch. $650/mo+ utilities+deposit. Avail 9/1. Call 486-4422.

1429 GOV NICHOLLS

Newly renov 1 BR 1 BA. Stove, w/d hk ups, water paid. $425/mo. Call 8219258

1939 CLEVELAND

2 bedroom, 1 bath upper, furn kitchen, hdwd floors, central a/h, high ceil, coinop laundry. $510/mo. 488-9820.

STEPS TO BAYOU/PARK

Renovated 2 bedrooms, 1 bath. $950/month. REALTY RESOURCES, INC. 523-5555.

3127 MUSIC ST.

All new 1 bdrm, wd flrs, all new kitchen, w/ stove & refridge, w/d, cen a/h, wtr pd. $600/mo. 606-4444.

FRENCH QUARTER/FAUBOURG MARIGNY 1 BR-700 ST FERDINAND

600 sq ft, furn kit, hdwd flrs, 12 ft ceil, 3 frpls, pocket doors, fans, a/c. $600/mo + dep. Refs req. Call after 10am, 9456920.

1417 Burgundy

Blk. Off Esplanade, 1 or 2 bdrm House, Newly Renov, hi ceil, hdwd flrs, approx 1200 sf, w/d hkps, ac, off st pkg, nice yard, Storage $1500/mo. 504/9754236.

1823 N RAMPART

Beautifully renov, large 2 bdrm, 2 ba cottage, French Quarter garden or patio. $1200/mo. 228-229-6373.

2326 CHARTRES - B

Great 2 BR 1 1/2 BA w/util rm. Cent a/c. Kitc appls, d/w & w/d $850/mo, lease. No pets. 382-5096 or 905-4457.

607 BARRACKS

4/5 independent bdrms, 2 full baths, w/d hkups, a/c, built in kit, lrg yard, living rm, breakfast rm, porch, off st prkng, close to Nelson elementary school and bus stops. Sect 8 Welcome. 2311602

LAKEVIEW/LAKESHORE 6267 MILNE ST.

2 br, 1 ba, shotgun apt. with lr, dr, kit, util rm with w/d hkps, d/w, front porch, bkyd, off st prkg. No dogs. $750/mo, Call Craig 486-4069

Lux 2br, 2ba apt in quiet Lakefront nb’hd.

1350sf, furn kit, c a/h, pool. $800, No pets. 283-6795 /861-6060

LUXURY TOWN HOME

1 BR apt in Greek Revival house, front porch, grt yard, lots of light, w/d, AC, pets neg. $575/mo+dep 940-6676

FRENCH QTR. COTTAGE

Beautiful 2 bdrm courtyd fountain, furn kit, ceil fans, hdwd flrs, w/d, appl. $1300/mo. Wtr pd 593-9020

FRENCH QUARTER FURN.

Luxury 1 Br, 1 Ba. Utilities incl. Lovely courtyard. No smoking; no pets. $950/mo + deposit. 504/558-9133

Green Fields Real Estate

Studio, 1 & 3 BR Apts from $700 $1,800 View Properties online at: www.greenfieldsrealestate.com Call 504-598-1700

3 br 2 1/2 ba Town House, covered parking , w/d hookups, central AC, $1250/mo. 504-891-2420

NEWLY RENOVATED

2 BR 2 BA condo near Marina. Cen a/h, brand new carpet, ceil fans, pool, laundry facilities. Gated inside covered pkg. No pets. $900/mo + dep. Call Ann Hutchins 504-722-5157

NEWLY RENOVATED

1205 ST. CHARLES AVE.

2 APTS. NR LUSHER

227 S SOLOMON ST

1 bath, furn kit, c a/h, w/d, wd flrs, porch, sm yard, no smkrs/pets, utils incl, refs req’d. $625/mo, 891-4477

5 Rms + Ba, pine flrs, 12’ ceil, furn kit, w/d hkps, a/c. $650 + dep. 482-7518 (aft 6 pm) 733-2861 vm

2742 PALMYRA

Fabulous 2 BR Shotgun + 800 sq ft storage/studio space. Cen a/h, wd flrs, w/d hk ups. Cats ok. $675/mo + dep. A must see oasis. 913-0511

2838 PALMYRA ST

Renovated 1 bedroom. References required. $465 per month. 488-9820.

3108 BIENVILLE $750/MO

3611 IBERVILLE

1 BDRM ON LAUREL ST

1 BEAUTIFUL 3BR 2BA,

7203 Hickory. W/d, c a/h, alarm, stove, fridge, tile flrs, walk to Univs. No smkrs only. $1300 incls wtr. 250-4146

1 BEDROOM APT

5530 PITT ST. Liv rm. din rm, cen a/h, w/d, carpet. No pets/smkrs. $750/mo. incls paid water . Lease, Dep & refs req.

228-229-6373 / 504-895-4500

1 BR, 7464 BENJAMIN

Walking dist to strcar line & Audubon Pk. Bath, ceil fans, carpet, wall units. Wtr pd. $600/mo. Avail Aug 22. 256-3864

1 BR NEAR UNIVERSITIES

911 Lowerline. Exc for grad student, lr, dr or 2nd br, lg furn kit, w/d. No pets. $850. 861-8275/460-2659.

1 BR, NEWLY RENOV.

3 br, 2 renov tile ba townhouse. Liv, din,furn kit, w/d, window a/c, hdwd flrs, secure, off st pkg. No dogs. $1500/mo.

Pottharst R.E. 897-2683.

Renov 2 bdrm, 1 bath, univ area, cen a/h, alarm, wd flrs, w/d. Cats ok, nonsmoker. $985+dep. 957-7727.

4522 S. CARROLLTON

6315 Hurst St, steps to Audubon Park w/view, newly renov, 1 br, 1 ba, new furn kit, cen a/h, hi ceil w/fans, hdwd flrs, w/d, sec, wtr pd, Avail now. $975 * 8913546.

2 story 2 br, 1 1/2 ba, hdwd flrs, c a/h, ceil fans, sm fenced yd, off st prkg, pd alarm. $1300 • 486-0080

4726 PALMYRA ST

1 bdrm, furn kit, newly renov, hi ceil, hdwd flrs, w/d, ac, off st prkg, no pets, $750/mo incls wtr. Call 482-1669.

842 1/2 TAFT PLACE

1 BR, 1 BA Apartment. Back yard. Near City Park and Bayou Saint John. $500 a month. Call 452-9335.

ACROSS FROM HOSPITAL

216 N Jeff Davis at Canal. 2 lg br, 2 full ba, furn kit, w/d hkps, hdwd flrs. Nr stcar. $800/mo. 228-229-6373.

BEAUTIFUL HALF DOUBLE

1 CHARMING APARTMENT

1 OF A KIND

2703 Octavia. Totally renov, fabulous upper 3 bdrms with study, 2 ba, liv rm, din rm, bkfst rm, furn kit, granite tops, hdwd floors, great windows, lots of storage. Approx 2300 sq ft. $2275/mo.

899-8030.

1 OF A KIND CLASSIC

Renov, historic home, 3 blks to Tulane, 8 min to Med Ctr, lovely prchs & yd, 2 br, 1 ba, w/d, auto gate, no pets. $1100/mo • 813-2108.

1/2 DBL, 719 UPPERLINE

2 BDRMS, 1 BA, A/C, stove, fridge, washer/dryer provided. Walk to restaurants! $750/mo. Call 339-4115

2 separate br, 1 ba, liv rm, kit combo, w/d, d/w, cen a/h, ceil fans, sec, $750/mo+dep. Call 899-9868.

PONTCHARTRAIN PLACE CONDOS ON THE LAKE IN “BUCKTOWN”

CANAL ST. - 1 ROOM

1042 SONIAT ST

PONTCHARTRAIN PLACE

Newly renov 2 br, 1 ba condo, across from lake, pool, prkg & more. www.joynaylon.com. Rodi Realty 8343221.

Very, very clean, Great nhborhd, 6 month rental agreement. $110/wk. Call 2827296 / 919-6980 no calls aft 7pm.

NEWLY RENOVATED DBLE

2-3 bdrms, 1.5 bath, liv rm, din rm, furn kit, w/d, hdwd flrs, 12’ ceil, cen a/h, $975/mo. 504/891-7611 or 416-3792.

1109 AUSTERLITZ

221 N. Cortez. 2 BR 1 BA. Alll appls included, hdwd flrs, cen a/h, ceil fans, w/d. Pets ok. $700/mo. 343-0664

Twnhse, 2 bdrm, 1.5 bath, w/d, hi ceil, wd flrs, swimming pool, 1200 sq ft, avail now. $1200/mo. 895-3431.

S. ALEXANDER

1111 SIXTH ST

1.5 blks from Canal. Big 2 br, 1 ba lower apt. Tile flrs, recently renov. No pets. $750/mo, wtr incl. 220-7239

1932 BURDETTE ST

Charming renov, 2 br, 1 ba, all new kitcheb, cen a/h, hdwd flrs, univ area, $875/mo. Call Teresa 914-3915.

1 BDRM, 1 BATH

225 S ALEXANDER

228 S. MURAT

Cute 1 bdrm, 1 ba near universities, wd flrs, wtr pd. $550 & $600/mo. Call LATTER & BLUM, 866-7000, ext 138.

822 Jena. Huge 5 rm half dbl, cntr ba & furn kit, w/d hkps, cen a/h. $750. Daniel T Baird Rl Est Serv 895-1241.

1923 JOSEPH. Near univs, hdwd flrs, ceiling fans, washer & dryer, water paid.

Pets ok. $600/mo. 452-4280

1/2 dbl, 2 br, 1 ba, furn kit, wd flrs, ceil fans, cen a/h, w/d, newly renov, bkyd, grt nb’hood. $900. 458-4860

Lg 4 indep bdrm house, furn kit with d/w, w/d, cen a/h, hdwd flrs. Close to univ. Pets nego. Asking $2200/mo. Lse length nego. Call Betsy, 616-3561.

1905 S CARROLLTON

1st MONTH FREE!!

6916 GEN HAIG. Single home 3 BR 2 BA. Cen a/h, w/d, new appls. $1500/mo. 504-234-1714

Lakeview condo For Sale and Lease (Furnished & Unfurnished) Pontchartrain Realty 835-5116 / 343-4563 www.pontchartrainrealty.com

1113 PENISTON

1 br, 1 ba lux condo, 850 sf, off st pkg 1 car. Many amen! No pets. $1200/mo.

Re/Max N.O. Prop. Tom 895-1415.

1 CAT FRIENDLY APT

JUST BLKS FROM LAKE

2br, 2ba, w/d, hwd flrs, ceil fans, alarm, lg den, deck, bkyd, off st prkg. Nr stcar & Univs. $1100, 905-9986

1205 ST CHARLES AVE

3818 CLEVELAND

MILNE STREET

FABULOUS -1028 PORT

1 APT ON AUDUBON BLVD

GREAT LOCATION

Perfect for students. Efficiency apt w/furnished kitchens, $490/mo. incls utilities. (504) 615-9053 or 460-3007

1900sf! 2236 CAMBRONNE

7023 Walmsley. Lg, beautiful 2 br, 2 ba, furn kit, cen a/h, hdwd flrs, w/d hkps, bkyd, off st pkg. $1000/mo, refs, dep, lse. No dogs. 861-3992.

1/2 dbl. New appls, hdwd flrs, ceils fans, quiet st. nr Nashville & Tchoupitoulas, off st prkg. $550/mo + dep. Refs, 1 yr lse.

Avail 9/1. Call Tim @ 899-2460

630 N. RAMPART

BALCONY ON RAMPART

1 AMAZING PLACE

2 br, 1 ba, a/c, ceil fans, lge furn kitch, w/d hkups, frplc & mantels, hdwd flrs, $650/mo+dep.: 486-8650. after 4pm.

For Lease.387 N.O. Hammond Hwy. 3 BR, 2 1/2 BA, w/d hkps, frplc, garage, pd monitored alarm, all gas. Approx.

2700sf. $1950/mo. 628-5898

Lg 2 br,1 ba overlooks Armstg Pk. Hi ceils, tile flr, c a/h, lg clsts. 1038 St. Ann. $1600 w/ wtr. 234-7349

1 AMAZING PLACE

6708 PONTCHARTRAIN BLVD

3 BR 2 BA, lower. 1670 sq ft of living.

Inside laundry rm, cov’d patio, off st pkg. $1400. Angela 554-8267. Keller Williams

1817 JENA ST

3 br, 1.5 ba, 2 balc, hdwd flrs, cen a/h, new appls, recently renov, 2 blks to St Charles. 1350. 504/338-9919.

1 bdrm near levee Uptown. Spectacular renovation. Never lived in! Hi ceil, hdwd flrs, washer/dryer, new kit & ba, cen a/h. $695/mo. Call 899-RENT.

Large 1/2 double. 2 BR 1 BA. 1000 sq ft, recent renov, new a/c units, w/d hk ups. Water paid. 486-1289

1 BR 1 BA rear apt. 1st level. 500 sq ft.

Cen a/h, w/d on premises, kit. $750.

Angela 554-8267. Keller Williams Newly renov. 1 br, LR, kit, cen a/h, balc.

Convient location. No pets. $625/mo, 282-7296 No call aft 7pm.

Large 2 bedroom double. Central a/h, hardwood floors, washer/dryer, great kitchen, small yard. Pets negotiable. $795 & $895/mo. Call 899-RENT.

210 N. CARROLLTON

Dble, 2 BR 1 BA. Furn kit, off st pkg, nr street car. Cen a/h, ceil fans. $850 + dep. No pets/ smkrs. 486-4268

NEAR FAIRGROUNDS

Grt view, 2 br, 2 ba, new renov, wlk-in clsts, fitness rm, 2 prkg spots, 24hr sec grd, $2050 • 504/415-1357

1 A+ APARTMENT

1200 SHORT ST

@ City Park & Conti. Hdwd flrs, sun rm, balcony, on site laundry, & more. 2 blcks to trolley/bus. $750 (Mid unit - $575) 864-489-5500

ESPLANADE RIDGE

1750 ST CHARLES CONDO

1 APT. 2 BR LOFT

223 N. ALEXANDER

2628 ACACIA. 786sf, new hdwd/tile flrs, ceil fans w/light kits, wd hkps. No pets/Sec 8. $750+dep & Lse 866-5917

UPTOWN/GARDEN DISTRICT

2 blks off St. Charles & 1 blk off Napoleon. Furn kit, w/d on site, sec fen yd, $800/mo, wtr incl. 481-6094

NEW LARGE 1 BR

1 BR 1 BA • NEAR UNO

Large luxury 3 BR 2 BA. Liv rm, din rm, porch, modern kit, all appls, hdwd flrs, cen a/h, 10 ft ceils. $1350/mo + dep.

Call 899-3527 or 228-5011.

Nr Touro Hosp. 1 br, liv/kit comb, balc, new appl, wlk-in closet, cbl, fpl, wd flrs.

Pets neg. $750. 891-8484.

2 upper apts. Both w/cent A/C, w/d hkps, water paid & on new st. car line. 2 BR w/new stove $795/mo 1 BR $695/mo. 891-9209 / 382-9371.

GENTILLY

1674 SONIAT ST

209 S. JEFF DAVIS

2 br, 2 ba, lr, dr, lrg closets, d/w, no pets, $800/mo+deposit. Call Tommy 504/9145072.

4 beautiful luxury apts by owner. $975$1400/mo. 2 or 3 private bdrms, liv rm, din rm, furn kit, w/d, cen a/h, fans, hdwd flrs, good closets, yard, off st pkg.

884-8844 or 488-1126.

WALK TO THE PARK

1 BR 1 BA. Furnished kitchen, w/d hk ups, hi ceils, water paid. No pets. $575/mo. Call 455-3844

3710 Laurel St, 2 bdrm, 2.5 bath, full kitchen, w/d, drvwy, patio, yd, avail 8/1. $1300/mo. 504/905-4598

2 BR, 1 BA lower right, cen a/h, furn kit, living rm, small rear yard, $450/mo + dep. Call 884-0459

NEAR CC’S COFFEE

E M A I L classadv@gambitweekly.com

3 bdrms, 1.5 ba, furn kit, cen a/h, w/d hkps, hdwd flrs, hi ceil, off st pkg. $1295/mo. O/A 891-3180.

1 BR, furn kit, hdwd flrs, newly renov, 11th flr city view, prkg, laundry, gym, pool under construction. $1000/mo. 5244260 after 10 am.

1205 ST CHARLES AVE

Luxury newly renov effcy & 1 bdrm condos, hdwd flrs, cen a/h, pool, workout room, $800-$1400/mo. 4515740.

1205 ST CHARLES CONDO

Newly renov 1 br, 1 ba, granite, hdwd flrs, laundry on premises, sec, gated, cvrd prkng, fitness ctr, pool. $1000/mo.

524-6888 or 874-1940

1219 PENISTON ST.

3 br, 2 1/2 ba, furn kit, c a/h, hwd flrs, hi ceils, w/d hkps, yd. 4 blks from St. Charles. $1600/mo, 237-4850

1372 MAGAZINE ST.

2 br, 2 ba guest house w/yd, c a/h, alarm, all new appl, w/d, d/w. $975/mo+$500 dep. Wtr pd. No pets.

669-2637

1402 1/2 JOSEPHINE

1200sf 2br upper w/balc, wd flrs. 2 blks from St. Charles. Sm pets neg. Must see! wtr incl. $850+dep. 523-5837

1529 VALMONT

3 BR 1.5 BA. 2 flrs, hdwd flrs, cen a/h, hi ceils, w/d. 1 car pkg. No Pets. $1600.

891-9679

1602 ADAMS ST

BACK ON MARKET!! Cozy, renov, univ area. 1 br, 1 ba, kit, w/d, cen a/h, hdwd flrs, pvt yd. Avl Imm. $585/mo, wtr incl.

Pets neg. 723-3222.

1626 7TH OFF ST CHARLES

Lg luxury 1 bdrm, hi ceil, hdwd flrs, spac furn kit with d/w, w/d hkps, yard, water paid. $750/mo. 866-3989.

1656 DUFOSSAT-$2100/MO

Stunning lower unit has it all! Hdwd flrs, 2000 sf, 3 br, 2 ba, lr, dr, deluxe kit, prkng. John @ RE/MAX, 390-1438.

1660 DUFOSSAT-$2200/MO

This huge 3 br, 2 b upper unit is a beauty! Hdwd flrs throughout, hi ceils, gourmet kit, attic room. Avail 10/1. John @ RE/MAX, 390-1438.

7531 Oak. 3br, 1br, lg yd. $1950+dep.

7624-26 Oak. Dplx, 4br, 2ba. $1650+dep. Both not shotguns w/new carpet & paint, c a/h, furn kit & d/w, w/d, off st prkg. Pet neg w/dep. 818-370-7201

2 BEDROOMS

WALK TO TULANE Near Nashville & Willow - $875 2330 State St - $1050 7621 Freret St - $1200 Independent bdrms, cen a/c, wd flrs, ceil fans, w/d, pkg O/A CLARA, 838-0371 or 858-5837.

2 BLKS TO ST CHARLES

1417 BORDEAUX, 2 bdrm, bath, lr, kit, appls, cen a/h, no pets, 1 mo dep, 1 yr lease, $1000/mo 286-1487, 717-5381243, bikajuli@cox.net

2 BR 1 BA - 1650 SQ FT

Near UNIVS. 3630 Nashville. Renov upr lg lr, dr, den, Ca/h, furn kit, hdwd flrs. $1200+dep, 1yr No pet. 866-5917/6216692

2 BR 1 BA 8013 NELSON

Nice upr w/ Murphy bed, porch, cen a/h, w/d, alarm, off st prkg, yard, pets ok, nr st car. $1125 • 818-6032

2 BR, 4915 LAUREL

Nice nb’hd. Freshly painted. Furn kit, a/c, w/d hkps, hdwd flrs. Sm pet o.k. $750/mo, 897-1901 or 412-8240

2 BR ON FONTAINEBLEAU

Lower with lr, dr, bkfst & sun rms, furn kit, hdwd flrs, a/c, w/d, off st pkg. No pets. $875/mo. 895-8525.

2006 S. SALCEDO

Beautiful Upstairs 2 bdrm apt, cent a/h, w/d, hdwd flrs, furn kitchen w/stove & fridge. $650/mo. Call 259-9365.

2020 JENA STREET

Spacious 1-2 br, 1 ba, lr, dr, furn kit, w/ new appls, patio w/ gas grill, wtr incl, pet ok. $1100/mo. 450-2910

209 AUDUBON ST- LG DBL Cen a/h, d/w, w/d, off st prkg, rear deck, 2 blks to park. 1yr lease, sec dep, $900/mo. 504-430-9469

2115 S. CARROLLTON On stcar line. Upper 1 br w/balc, wd flrs, ceil fan, cen a/h, d/w, w/d facil, off st pkg, very clean. $600/mo. 866-2874.

2122 CALHOUN Walk to univ. Nice 3 bdrm, 1 ba upper, wood flrs, w/d, pkg. $1400/mo. Call LATTER & BLUM, 866-7000, ext 136.

2122 MAGAZINE ST GORGEOUS LOFT-LIKE SPACE! 2nd FLR, 2 RMS W/2 BALCONIES. $2500/MONTH. 861-3992

2201 SHORT ST Cute upper, 2 indep bdrms, 1 ba, wood flrs. $875/mo. Call LATTER & BLUM, 866-7000, ext 136. www.bestofneworleans.com | August 30, 2005 | Gambit Weekly

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TO ADVERT ISE CALL

UPTOWN/GARDEN DISTRICT

483-3100

FAX

483-3153

2406 JENA STREET

1 blk of Napoleon Ave, nr univs, charming, 3 br, 1.5 bath, newly renov, hist 2 story home, cen a/h, hi ceil, hdwd flrs, very nice fncd yd, ceil fans, new tile in bath & kitchen, off st prkg, big porch, new refrige, stove, d/w, kitchen cabinets, fresh paint, 2 balc, storage shed, w/d, pet negotiable. $1200/mo. Call Naty 504/982-1701.

2418 BROADWAY-2 OR 3 BR

$1250-$1500/mo. Liv rm, din rm, furn kit, 2 baths, w/d, cen a/h, ceil fans, hdwd flrs. Call 504/865-7806.

2521 NAPOLEON AVE.

Lower 3 br, 2 full ba, lr, furn kit, cen a/h, w/d hkps, porch, fnc yd, off st pkg. $1100/mo. No pets. 231-1227.

RENTALS

2533 CALHOUN ST.

2216 BURDETTE ST

Spac 2 br, 1 ba, lr, dr, furn kit, util & storage rm, w/d hkps, yard, water pd, 1st & last mo + sec dep + lse. Near univ/hosp. Great n’hood. $910/mo. Pgr 476-0925 / 864-1027 / 439-8177.

2220 CONSTANCE-$1200/MO

Must see this big reno’d 1 br, 1.5 ba upper unit. Hardwood flrs, huge master w/laundry, lr, dr, w/d. John @ RE/MAX, 390-1438.

2229 MILAN ST.

2 bdrm, 1.5 bath, high ceilings. Quiet area. Great location. Avail Sept 1. $850/mo, Call 473-7843

2237 S GAYOSO

Nice renov lower, 2 bdrms, 1 ba duplex, wd flrs, cen a/h. $995/mo. Call LATTER & BLUM, 866-7000.

2503 OCTAVIA ST

Newly renov 3 BR 2 BA. Modern kit appls, hdwd flrs, cen a/h, ceil fans, screened porch, security sys, w/d, fenced yd, basement storage. Great block. Small pets ok. $1750/mo + dep.

866-7419

Lg 1 BR, prkg, wd flrs. Univ area, $700/mo. • 4233 Fontainebleau 1BR, prkg, w/d $550/mo. 628-3663 / 6283661

2534 GEN PERSHING

Ideal for students. 6 rooms, 2 baths, lg furn kit, w/d, hdwd flrs, hi ceil, lg fenc backyard. 486-9816.

2613 MARENGO ST

Renov 2 bdrm, liv rm, furn kit, ba, balc, ceil fans, cen heat, ac, w/d hkps, $800$900/mo, 891-5646 or 525-3038.

2640 MILAN

Efficiency apt w/kitchen appls & ceramic tile floors. $495/mo includes all utilities.

908-3650 or 398-9900.

2BR / 1.5 BA - 2 STORY

Renov, spacious Townhouse style apt, encl garage, priv patio. Cen A/H. W/D. All new appls. Wd flrs. Sec sys. Sm Pets ok. $1,450/mo. 504-621-9312

3 BLKS TO CAMPUS/PARK

Renov 1 br apt, furn kit, hdwd flrs, ceil fans, tile ba w/clawfoot tub, w/d, cen a/h, ctyd. $775/mo. 897-3735.

321 WEBSTER ST

Half double. Hdwd flrs, ceil fans, new w/d, d/w & disposal. Fenced bkyd w/ furniture. Cen a/h, off st pkg for 2. $1000/mo + dep. Call 460-3516

33 FONTAINEBLEAU DR.

2 br, 2 ba, garden apt w/Jacuzzi, nice yd, w/d, a/c. $800/mo + 1/3 utils, wtr & cable pd. 329-4343. Avail 9/1. O/A. Website: RealestateFP.com, then Rentals, then 33 Fontainebleau for pics & flr plan.

3316 UPPERLINE ST

2 BR 1.5 BA. Hdwd flrs, driveway, fncd yd, cen a/h. $875/mo + dep. Util included. 821-1551, 250-2610

3433 ST CHARLES AVE

2 bedroom, 2 bath upper with pool. $990/mo. Call LATTER & BLUM, 8667000, ext 136.

GW

REAL ESTATE

3613 MAGAZINE

Cute 1 or 2 bdrm shotgun apt, cen a/h, wd flrs, furn kit, patio, wtr pd. No dogs.

Great area! Avl 9/15. $750/mo, 1 yr lse.

Call Terry at 460-9414.

3820 STATE ST. DRIVE

Bright & airy 1 BR upper, wd flrs, furn kit, cen a/c, w/d, near univs. $600/mo + dep & lease. John 822-0547

3929 OCTAVIA ST

Nice area, 2 bdrm, bath, furn kit, cen a/h, hdwd flrs, dishwasher, washer/dryer, off st pkg, $795/mo. 8957007

3961 ANNUNCIATION

Renov 2 bdrms, 1.5 ba, new kit, hdwd flrs, cen a/h, high ceil, lg yard. Pet ok. $850/mo. 338-6886 or 866-6886.

4009 OCTAVIA

2 BR 1 BA duplex in high demand area.

1000 sq ft, wd flrs, independent bedrooms (not a shotgun), appls included, cen a/h. $900/mo. Call Rhett 583-4848

4036 ST CHARLES AVE

CHARMING 1700 sf 2 BR, 1 BA. Wd flrs, w/d, cen a/h. No smoking, no dogs. $1425/mo. 899-8640.

4127 WALMSLEY AVE

Lrg 2 br, dr, ceil fans, d/w, appls, w/d, frt prch, bk prch, fncd bkyd, lrg basement area, off st prkg, pet neg. $1000+dep.

488-0301

4210 MAGNOLIA

Upper duplex, 2 indep bdrms, 1 ba, all kit appls, cen a/h, hdwd flrs, off st pkg 1 car. $675/mo. 398-9900.

4422 S SARATOGA

Beautiful, large 2 story apt. 3 br, 3 ba, liv, din, furn kit, hdwd flrs, window a/c, w/d, yd. No dogs. $1100/mo. Pottharst RE, 897-2683.

4431 FONTAINEBLEAU DR

Upr, new paint, lrg 2 br, new appls, w/d, 1300 sf, wd flrs, off st prkg, balc overlooking Foutainebleau. Avail Oct 1. $1100. 723-7869.

4532 B MAGAZINE

Upstairs studio apt, 400sf, full ba, kit & lg walk in clst. Nr Napoleon Ave. Wtr incl. $595/mo, 782-3526

4608 CARONDELET

St Charles 1 blk. Renov 1700 sf, 2 br uppr, solarium, cov porch, cen a/h, Italian tile kit & ba, hdwd flrs, frplcs. $1350/mo. 269-8088 or 723-0001.

4616 CHESTNUT ST

Cute 2 BR 1 BA. 1/2 double. Liv rm, furn kit, w/d. $650/mo. 887-8879 or 874-5279

4621 DART ST.

Renov. 2 br, ba, lr, dr, hdwd flrs, ceil fans, cen a/h, w/d hkps, yd, off st pkg, Pets o.k. $800/mo, 616-6665

4701 PITT STREET

Prime 2 BR 1 BA. Liv rm, din rm, kit, sun porch, hi ceils, hdwd flrs, w/d hk ups. No smokers. $1275/mo + dep. 583-8207

4900 LAUREL

Renovated shotgun, 1-2 BR, 1 BA, hdwd flrs, cen a/h, w/d hk ups. $700/month.

Call 899-8634

4921 S PRIEUR ST

classadv@gambitweekly.com

636 RACE STREET

Upper studio apt, 600 sf+1 bdrm, ceil fans, new paint & flrs, lndry, shared fncd yd. $800/mo+dep. 451-9131

7323 COHN - UNIV AREA

GW

TRAVEL &GETAWAYS

Newly renov 2 bdrm, 1 ba apt. Furn kit, cen a/h, new tile & carpet, w/d hkps, water paid. $850/mo. 430-8313.

DESTINATIONS

7713 SPRUCE ST

We Know Costa Rica

3 bdrms, 2 ba, cen a/h, wood floors, w/d included, large yard. $1195/mo. C. J. Gordon, Owner/Agent, 891-3180.

7821 SPRUCE STREET

2 BR, 1.5 BA. Near Univ. & streetcar, w/d, cen a/h, off st pkg, open flr plan. $950/mo. 899-3837 / 861-4194

7823 1/2 PANOLA ST

Charming 1 br, 1 ba in quiet hse nr Tulane, stcar, coffee shops. Wd flrs, a/c, fans, new stove/frig, w/d, pet neg. $650/mo incl wtr. Avl Sept. 427-3518.

7900 SYCAMORE

1800sf nice 2 br, 2 full ba, office, LR, DR, kit, w/d hkps, hwd flrs, balc, alarm. $1300/mo, 314-1386

802 EIGHTH ST

Newly renov 2 BR 1 BA double shotgun.

Hdwd flrs, cen a/h, w/d hk ups, new appls, yard. $800/mo + dep. Water pd.

Call 948-3011

816 LOUISIANA AVE

3 br, 2 ba, 1/2 dbl, cen a/h, d/w, w/d, fncd yd, nr Magazine. $1545. Pet ok.

Contact jmctop@juno.com or 220-1459.

8422 PANOLA ST

Renov 2 br, 1 ba, lr, dr, bkfst rm, ofc, furn kit w/all new appl incl d/w, cen a/h, w/d hkps. $750/mo. 899-7657.

A BLK FROM BROADWAY

Lrg 1 br, 1 ba apt, cen a/h, hdwd flrs, ceil fans, approx 1000 sf, walk to univs, $650/mo. Call 259-4734.

A GD CARRIAGE HOUSE

1 bdrm, 1 bath, lr, furn kit, newly renov, ceil fans, utils pd, priv security, no pets.

975-6106

www.LoveCostaRica.com Our Packages Are Inexpensive, Our Advice Is Free! Highly Personalized Service.

Guaranteed Lowest Prices! Call For Rainforest, Language, Fishing Or Beach Packages. Costa Rica Travel Exchange, 482-2800

HUGE APT

3401 Octavia. 3 br, 2 ba, bkfst rm, dr, lr, w/d, d/w, cen a/h, French doors to porch, off st pkg. $1550/mo. Call Andrew, 782-6535.

JACUZZI TUB APT

1722 Dublin. 3 br, 2 ba, furn kit, d/w, w/d, tiled lr, fenc grdn. 1 blk from stcar line. $1250/mo. 782-6535.

LGE 3BR / 1BA • $1200

4312 S. DORGENOIS. Appx 1340sf, lots of storage. Furn kitc. Cen a/h, w/d.

Annie 388-7010. Keller Williams N.O. 862-0100

LOWER GARDEN LUXURY

Gated Community. 1 br, cen a/h, ceil fans, furn kit, spacious clsts. $525 dep, $560/mo, 558-0668

LUXURY CONDO

2 BR, 2 BA, 6th flr city view, full security, fitness ctr, hot tub, St Charles parade rte $1900. 601-954-1152

MAURICE GUILLOT PROP MLS LINK www.mauriceguillot.com 504-736-0544

NEAR AUDUBON PARK

3810 State St, wd flrs, hi ceil, cen a/h, w/d, near univs, $1550/mo 251-9096.

1/2 shotgun double, 1 br, 1 ba, lg lr, kit, hdwd flrs, yard. Avail Sept 1. NO PETS. $750/mo, credit ck, refs, dep. Gordon O/A, 522-0831 or 450-8590.

AUDUBON PARK TWNHS

NEAR AUDUBON PARK

A LUXURY HOME, 1ST FLR

Lg 2br, 2ba, wd flrs, granite, prkg, gorgeous renov. $2200/mo. Keller Williams N.O. 862-0100/ 908-3423

BEAUTIFUL FURN HOME

All amenities. Must see! 8228 Sprcue St. 2 BR, Den, hdwd flrs, w/d. $1395/mo.

303-324-5326

CLEAN & BRIGHT!!

Univ area 2 br, w/d in unit, kit w/dw, chandelier, fplce, medallions, wd flrs. $895. No pets/smokers. 236-9287.

CLOSE TO MED SCHOOL

1 br upper, 1 ba, restored Edwardian, furn kit, w/d, cen a/h, close to CBD. $675/mo. Call 522-5301 or 214-6723

CLOSE TO UNIVERSITIES

2 indep br, lg upper duplex, furn kit, wd flrs, ceil fans, off st pkg. Quiet area. $750/mo. Louis, 861-7653.

CLOSE TO UNIVERSITIES

Nice area, 2238 S Gayoso. 2 indep bdrms, furn kit, ceil fans, cen a/h, off st pkg. $950/mo. Louis, 861-7653.

NEAR MAGAZINE & LA AV

3432 ANNUNCIATION, renov 1 br shotgun, furn kit, hdwd floors, cen a/h, shed with w/d hkps, sec sys, sm fenc yd.

Good neighborhood. $575/mo. Appt only. 943-3784. naydja@bellsouth.net

ON AUDUBON PARK / 2 BR

2 ba, upr, furn kit, d/w, cen a/h, sec, hkps, prchs, nr univs/st car, prkg, wtr pd, no smkrs, $1900 • 897-3539, 7232726 cell.

PALMER AVE COTTAGE

Small single furnished efficiency behind home. Deposit & references required. $300/mo. No pets. 529-1343

FULLY FURNISHED

RECENTLY RENOV 3BR , 2BA

Nr Univs, 1700sf, wd flrs, lr, dr, 2 br, sunrm, furn kit, w/d, patio, off st pkg, sec sys, a/c & maintained yd. $1200.

866-4646

553 OCTAVIA

1 blk off Magazine. Charming Uptwn Dbl. Lrge 2 BR/ 2 BA. Fncd Yd. Laundry. $1400 pm. Wtr pd. 214.6280

5830 FOUNTAINBLEAU DR

Beautiful 2 BR 2 BA. Cen a/h, hdwd flrs, porch, patio, furn kitchen, w/d. Great nb’hood. $1200/mo + dep. Call 8660959

613 - 615 NAPOLEON

Parade Route. 2 units, newly renov, 2 BR, 1 BA each, 1000sf & 1100sf, cent A/H, laundry room, fenced yd, water incl, $900/mo & $1000/mo. 896-8190 Gambit Weekly | August 30, 2005 | www.bestofneworleans.com

4225 Carondelet. Beau newly renov 1 br garden apt w/lg patio. Inclds all furnishings: linens, w/d, elec, hi speed internet & water. $1100/mo. Avl now. Helen 8993180 / 650-9114 or Iris 891-2668.

GARDEN DISTRICT GEM

1 blk off St Charles. Immaculate 2 br, 2 ba, SS kit, cen a/h, ceil fans, hdwd flrs, w/d. $2500/mo. 458-7648.

GREAT FOR ROOMATE

Huge newly renov. 3 br, 2 ba w/ bonus room that can be use as 4th br. Hdwd flrs, w/d, off st prkg, fenced yd. Nr Univs.

Non smkrs. $1600/mo. 5825 S. Johnson. 504-261-8228

Nice house, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, hardwood flrs, sunroom, off st prkg, large yard. $1150/mo. Call 504/352-4958.

SINGLE HOUSE!!! 2 BR

3326 Calhoun, $795/mo. Cent a/h.

STUDENTS WELCOME! Cardinal Property Management 504/482-0396

ST. CHARLES NEAR PARK

503 Cherokee. Beau 2 br, 1 ba, furn kit incld d/w & disp, w/d, cen a/h, hdwd flrs, hi ceil. No pets. Off st parking. $1200/mo + util. Cynthia, 891-6061.

5418 FONTAINEBLEAU Dr

COLISEUM SQUARE EFFCY

Rural Setting Nr Oak St

NEAR AUDUBON PARK

4926 COLISEUM ST

1/2 dbl, nr st car, many stores, 1/2 br, 1 ba, wd flrs, hi ceil, w/d , sec, gr nb’hood, some pets ok. $850 * 782-3963.

Studios, 1-5 br apts & Maple St offices. $450-$1850/mo. All amenities.

ST CHARLES AVE UPPER

1329 Coliseum. Upper 2 br, 1 ba, furn kit, w/d hkps, a/c, ceil fans, hi ceil. No pets. $750/mo. Call Sigrid, 460-5921.

Prudential Gardner.

COLISEUM SQUARE

RIVERLAKE PROPERTIES 866-6060•826 ADAMS ST

501 Cherokee. Beau 2 br, 2 ba, furn kit incld d/w & disp, w/d, cen a/h, hdwd flrs, hi ceil, sec sys. No pets. Off st parking. $1250/mo + util. Cynthia, 8916061.

Ideal classic cottage on oak lined street.

Secure, spacious, 1800 square feet in best respected location, Holy Name Parish. Walk to universities, churches, parks, 10 minutes to downtown. 3 bd/2 ba, large master bedroom, den, fireplace, equipped kitchen, W/D, California closets, off-street parking. Owner renting for first time. N/S, No Pets. $1600/month. Call 504-581-9077 or 504-239-1481.

2 bdrm, 1 bath house, close to univs, w/d, cen a/h, d/w, hdwd flrs, off st prkg, fenced yd, $975/mo. 261-6579.

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EMAIL

Jacuzzi tubs, all new appliances, hdwd flrs, w/d, cen a/h. Pets o.k. $2000/mo, Call 522-0155

RENOV UPTOWN APT

1. Off Prytania, 1 br, pool, gated, laun, prkg $625 2. Bordeaux St, 1 - 3 br, mod kit, prkg, pool, $625 -$1250 3. Napoleon 1 br, key entry, laundry $550 ...891-2420

RIVERBEND JEWEL

Approx. 2000 sq ft, 2 bdrms, 2 full baths, furn kitchen, screened porch, cent A/H, hdwd flrs, high ceilings. $1550/mo.

504-259-5756

Fabulous 3 bdrms, 1 ba, furn kit, garage, on park like grounds. $1000/mo, water paid. 671-8235 or 416-8362.

Spac 2 br near univ. Dbl insulated windows, hdwd flrs & all amenities. $1450/mo. Call 994-6611 or 737-4697.

STUDENT APARTMENTS!!!

3 & 4 bdrm apts near Tulane & Loyola, cen a/h, refrig, stove, w/d, off st prkg.

Call 453-3829.

SUPER DEALS

3 bdrms, 2 ba near Tulane Univ, furn kit, w/d, hdwd flrs, a/c, off st pkg. $1400/mo. 220-4652.

UPTOWN APARTMENTS

• Lg 1 br apt near Jefferson Ave, $615/mo.

• Lg 2 br, screen porch near parade rt, $695/mo.

Call 861-7533, O/A.

TO ADVERT ISE CALL

UPTOWN/GARDEN DISTRICT VICTORIAN COTTAGE

500 Washington, 1 bdrm, w/d, ceil fans, hdwd flrs, ac, all new appls, sec sys. $650/mo. Call 813-5822.

VICTORIAN COTTAGES

2 avail, ea has 1 br, rent incls wtr but not utilities. Washer/Dryer on location, pets allowed. 8323 Plum St, 750 sf, $800/mo, 8321 Plum (smaller) $450/mo. Call 862-3447.

483-3100

FAX

483-3153

VICTORIAN HOUSE W/POOL

2 br, 2.5 ba, w/d, cen a/h, off st pkg, walk-in clsts, stnless steel appliances, marble bath, 1 blk to Magazine. Great location! $1850/mo. 289-8205.

VIEW OF PARADE ROUTE

2 bdrm, 2 bath, cen a/h, wd flrs, newly renov, gated comm, pool, workout rm, prkg. Ask for unit #605. $1650/mo. Call Merryell @ 895-3642

WALK TO STREETCAR

7731 Spruce St- Upper. Large nice 3 BR 1 BA & balcony. Cen a/h, w/d, wood floors, ceiling fans. Off st parking. $1300/mo + dep. Call 822-9377

WALK TO TOURO!!!

Completely remodeled 1BR, w/refrg, stove, w/d, a/h. Charming gated crtyd. $650/mo. Wtr pd. No pets. 751 Louisiana Ave. 945-9959

GW

REAL ESTATE

1126 ERATO

Brand new shotgun, all appliances brand new. Just renovated. W/d, pets welcome. $750/mo + deposit. Call 259-4051

2 BDRM - 1207 COLISEUM

1400sf, upstairs bdrms, 1.5 BA, Jacuzzi tub, wd flrs, exposed brick, sec sys, balc & crt yd. $1275/mo 400-7829

2236 - 38 ANNUNCIATION

(2) 2 BDRM, 1 BA Twnhs, new renov, all new kit, SS appls, hdwd flrs, tile ba, lrg closet, new elect & plumbing, balc, pets neg. $800. 915-0079

LRG 1 BDRM - DOGS OKAY

1231 Josephine betw Magazine & St Charles, hdwd flrs, hi ceils, w/d, patio, yard, $700/mo. 782-3633. O/A

OVERLOOKING THE AVE

NEW ACADIAN 3 BR HOME

2 BA w/Jacuzzi in mstr BA, scrnd porch, laundry rm, kit w/SS appls, marble countertops & cer tile flr; family rm w/lg wd beams & cathedral ceils; hdwd flrs, ceiling fans, workshop, 2 car carport & storage located on a 2 acre priv wooded lot. 10 min. N. of I-12 off Turnpike Rd. 1 yr lease. $1500/mo. Avail 9/1. See @ www.lapolofarms.com 985-796-9130

PH GEM, 336 DIAMOND

3rd flr, 1 br, 1 ba, approx 900 sf, prkg incl. $1050/mo.

Avail 9/15. 1 blk to Convention Center, near all. Call 504/527-0912 or 504/4534030 for appt.

WALK TO CBD & LUCY’S

& Emeril’s & D-Day. Lrg 1 BR, w/d, fitness ctr, gated entry, $999 incl wtr.

Rsrvd off st pkg avail 504-982-0607

FOR RENT/OTHER Hseboat Floating Home

Furnished 1 bedroom, air/heat, Lafitte Marina. $800/mo + deposit & lease. Call 865-1834

1304 Felicity. Renov 2 br, 1 ba, cen a/h, new kit, w/d, hdwd flrs, hi ceils. No smkrs. $1000/mo, 525-3410

GULF COAST

PRIVATE NEW HOME. Furnished room w/bath in Metairie. Kitchen & w/d access. $350/mo includes utilities. Call Maureen at 467-5881 Room for rent in quiet Kenner home.

Share bath & kit. M/F, util included. $350.mo. 504-482-5868 Roommate wanted for apartment in French Quarter. $100/wk. Incls phone, cable utilities. Call 504/524-0708 or 504/931-4576.

ROOMMATES NEEDED for a spacious Riverbend apt: 3 BR, 1 BA, Cen AC , all appls. Near levee & streetcar.

Roommates will share $975/mo + plus utilities. Avail 9/1. Call 866-9994.

Share my home. Female preferred, nonsmoker. Pontchatoula area. No pets.

No children. Refs req’d. $550 985-3203706

STUDIO MATE NEEDED

ARTIST’S COTTAGE FOR RENT

RIVER GARDEN

1 BR from $720, 2 BR from $1000, 3 BR from $1250. New construction, central A/H, off street parking, private patrol. 913 Felicity St. 412-8216.

Precious 2 BR cottage on large lot in Waveland, just blocks from the beach.

Claw foot bathtub, cen air, new appls, wd flrs, front screened porch, metal roof.

Irrigated garden and detached garage. $700/mo. Call 504-717-6828

Clay work preferred but all Artists welcome. Great ammenities, quiet nb’hood. $150/mo. 909-9089.

UNIV AREA - Furn. rm. in charming 3 bdrm house $400+share util. Visiting teachers/ professionals, or older grad. student. No undergrads. Laura at 8666203, 450-9581

WAREHOUSE DISTRICT

RENTALS TO SHARE 2 BR home in Irish Channel. $250/month includes utilities, cable phone, and washing facilities. Furnished.

Call 342-2192 or 339-1292 Female Roommate wanted to share a 2 bedroom 1/2 double near UNO. Must love animals and animals are welcome. $325/mo includes utilities. Call 504-7151881 Female roommate wanted to share a spacious home in residential neighborhood. Private bedroom, laundry facilities, modern kit, off st prkg, 1 blk off Vets busline. $350/mo + dep, includes utilities. 504-281-4957 lv mg Male Roommate wanted to share large 2 BR apt w/individual bathrooms & nice patio in New Orleans East. $300/month plus 1/2 utilities. Call 504-913-2907

Wstbnk House to Share

1205 ST CHARLES AVE

COTTON MILL CONDOS

920 Poeyfarre. Renov 1 bdrm, granite c’tops, wood flrs, exercise rm, cable pd. $1295/mo. Call LATTER & BLUM, 8667000.

BELLE CHASSE LOVELY COUNTRY HOME

10 min from CBD, 3-4 bdrms, 3 baths, lrg liv/din, den opens to new prof kitchen, sunrm, lush landscape, cvrd prkg, $1800/mo. 392-1516

COTTON MILL LUX CONDO

1 br w/study. ba, liv rm, eat in kit, priv patio, hdwd flrs, mantels. Avail 9/1. $750/mo, wtr pd. 621-6915

COVINGTON

2nd flr. 1205 St. Charles. Furn 2 BR 1 BA. Pool, gym, gated, covered pkg garage. Security, utils included. $1750.

504-390-5619

Purple Victorian Hse

Spacious 1 bdrm condo, granite c’tops, pkg, pool, exercise rm & sauna. $1225/mo. Call LATTER & BLUM, 8667000.

LOWER GARDEN DISTRICT/IRISH CHANNEL 1023 THIRD ST.

E M A I L classadv@gambitweekly.com

1 br, 1 ba, new renov, 14’ ceil, granite, ss appl, w/d, cen a/h. Pool, fitness, 24 hr sec. $1250. 504/388-0908.

JULIA PLACE CONDO

Newly remodeled luxury condo, 1 bdrm, exterior corner, new ss appls & prkg spot. 504.452-0674

COVINGTON MAURICE GUILLOT PROP MLS LINK www.mauriceguillot.com 504-736-0544

Furn 3 BR house w/ female in mid 20’s.

Adorable home located in quiet area in Gretna. Home equip w/ full kit & den, w/d, & cable. 2 sheds, attic for extra storage. Lg patio & bckyd. Large bedrooms $290/mo. Call Susan @ 4584823

www.bestofneworleans.com | August 30, 2005 | Gambit Weekly

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Gambit Weekly | August 30, 2005 | www.bestofneworleans.com

GW

MIND BODY SPIRIT

TO ADVERTISE CALL

483-3100

FAX

WESTBANK LOCATION

LICENSED MASSAGE

483-3153

Swedish, Deep Tissue, Therapeutic massage, Hours 9a - 7p, M-F & 10a - 2p Sat. $60. Lic# 1910 Sandra 393-9392

EMAIL

classadv@gambitweekly.com

PSYCHICS/TAROT/ASTROLOGY GET BACK THE ONE YOU LOVE!

Male Witch offering Psychic readings and counseling. Casting and removal of spells. Contact with spirits. Call 24/7.

Tom 800-419-3346. Credit/Debit Cards.

(ANN CAN)

ADAM & EVE MASSAGE

Full Body Massage. 2 Classy Lassies.

1 Marvelous Massage. Guaranteed!

LA Lic #0358. (504) 468-9612.

YOGA/MEDITATION

ADVANCED HEALING

City Park Spa & out calls.

Swedish•Deep•Shiatsu• Alignment. #0458 Norman @ 504-949-6865

BYWATER BODYWORKS

Swedish, deep tissue, therapeutic. Flex appts, in/out calls, OHP/student discounts, gift cert. $60/hr, $75/ 1 1/2hr. LA Lic#1763 Mark. 259-7278

PROFESSIONAL SWEDISH MASSAGE

BY STRONG HANDS. $60/SESSION IN STUDIO. OUTCALL ALSO AVAILABLE. CALL JACK, LA #0076. 887-5003.

FEELING DISCONNECTED?

Get reconnected with a deep yet nurturing massage experience by Matteo, Lic. #0022 Met area 504-832-0945

Mike Ford; LMT, NCTMB

Massage Therapy & Body Masks.

LA Lic #1929, by appt only.

504/382-1167.

PROF MASSAGE By APPT.

New Met loc. Same Great Service.

• Relaxation • Pain Relief • Stress Reduction • Pregnancy • TMJ • Gift Cert. In/out calls avail.

3201 Cleary, Ste 300 Michael 301-7001 LA#146 RelaxByMichael@bellsouth.net

www.bestofneworleans.com | August 30, 2005 | Gambit Weekly

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GW

AT YOUR SERVICE

TO ADVERTISE CALL

483-3100

FAX

483-3153

E M A I L classadv@gambitweekly.com

V

THE LAW OFFICE OF

JENNIE SMITH .

ATTORNEY AT LAW

Specializing in

TENANT EVICTION & RENT RECOVERY

A full legal/collection service specializing in landlord rights by recovery of lost rent & cost of property damage.

CALL TODAY TO PROTECT YOUR RIGHTS !

504-942-1544

HOME SERVICES

LANDSCAPE/HORTICULTURE TOTAL YARD CARE

Comprehensive, capable and dependable. 1 time clean up or scheduled maintenance. (504) 9524968

CHILDCARE 24 HOUR DAYCARE

Pontchartrain PreSchool • See our ad on page #2, Bulletin Board, for more information. 885-8255

AT YOUR SERVICE PAT’S HOUSEKEEPING

Professional • Dependable • 10 yrs exp. References • Wkly, Bi-Wkly or Monthly. Free Est. Call Pat: 228-5688 / 464-7627

COMPUTERS/INTERNET COMPUTER HELP

@ home by Lonnie. Setup, Repair, Virus, Upgrade. Free Estimates, Great Rates.

504-220-2999

DOMESTIC SERVICES CLEANING SERVICE

Residential & Commercial. Bonded & references. For your cleaning needs. Call Christina 831-0606 or 232-5554.

122 |

Gambit Weekly | August 30, 2005 | www.bestofneworleans.com

GW

AUTOMOTIVE

TO ADVERTISE CALL

483-3100

FAX

483-3153

E M A I L classadv@gambitweekly.com

CLICK CLACK TALK CARS

G

TOM & R AY M AGLIOZ ZI and DOUG BERM AN

W

Too Hot to Handle?

DEAR TOM AND RAY:

One of the exhaust heat shields fell off my 2001 Honda Civic Hatchback a while ago. The dealer told me not to bother putting it back on or replacing it because I don’t need it anyway.

(1) Why does Honda (or any manufacturer) install the dang things if all they do is rattle and fall off? (2) After the heat shield had been gone for nearly a year, my exhaust manifold cracked.

Could the missing heat shield have hastened the failure of the manifold?

Holly

TOM: To answer your second question first, the heat shield had nothing to do with the cracked manifold. So forget about that. The heat shields are actually metal guards that surround the various pieces of your exhaust system.

RAY: There are top and bottom shields.

The bottom shields are there so that if you park on tall, dry grass or some other combustible material, your 600-degree exhaust system won’t set stuff under the car on fire. It doesn’t happen often, but it can.

TOM: On top, the heat shield prevents the heat of the exhaust from going upward, toward the floor of your car. And depending on which piece of the heat shield is missing, that could cause the bushings in your shifter to dry out or the bottom of your sneakers to melt and become one with the carpet.

RAY: The heat shield is made up of a

bunch of cheap, thin pieces of sheet metal that are welded in place. And since they’re all under the car and constantly exposed to the elements, they’re particularly vulnerable to rusting and breaking loose.

TOM: Our lawyers tell us that we must always replace rattling or missing pieces of the heat shield. Why? Because they say they’re already too busy defending us against libel lawsuits from carmakers, and they don’t have time to defend us on the off chance that some guy’s dead day lilies, and the rest of his neighborhood, go up in flames.

RAY: But we know there are lots of people who choose not to replace heat shields. It can cost 20 bucks to just tear it off versus maybe $200 to install a new one — if you can even buy the piece you need individually.

TOM: And your dealer might know that your car might be fine without one particular piece of the heat shield. If you’re not permanently melted to the floor of the car, write back in a few years and let us know if he was right, will ya?

DEAR TOM AND RAY:

I took my car to a mechanic friend of mine.

I talked to him at 11 a.m., and he said that he already had eight hours’ labor in the job. I said: “What? You started at 3 a.m.?” Then he said that time is not billed out based on actual clock time, but on what “the book” says is required.

He said if you’re fast, you can make more money, but if you’re slow, you lose money, so it comes out even.

Is this common procedure, or is he a weasel?

JJ

TOM: It’s actually very common. The book your friend was referring to is the “flat rate book,” put out by one of several independent companies. The book lists — based on surveys and what manufacturers pay for warranty work — a reasonable number of labor hours that it should take for an average technician to complete a job. And in a way, it does bring some predictability and fairness to the business.

RAY: So if a guy is learning a job on your car and it takes him all day, you won’t have to pay for all the time he’s walking around scratching his head.

TOM: And the book rate rewards the guy

who has done the job before and doesn’t need to keep referring to the repair manual.

RAY: Of course, it also rewards the guy who rushes through a job and screws it up. So it’s far from a perfect system.

TOM: In our shop, we only use the book to give our customers estimates. Then we charge them for the actual time we spend working on their car.

RAY: Our customers seem to prefer this method. Even if, once in a while, we run into a frozen bolt or something that makes a job take longer than the book predicts, they seem to prefer paying for work they’re actually getting.

TOM: But we’re the exception. The vast majority of shops and dealerships in this country use the flatrate book, so we can’t say, based on the evidence you provided, that he’s a weasel. But if you send testimonials from his former girlfriends or business partners, we’d be happy to GW reopen the case. GW Hear Car Talk every Saturday at 9 a.m. and every Sunday at 5 p.m. on 89.9 WWNO. Got a question about cars? Email by visiting the Car Talk Web site at www.cartalk.com. © 2005

by Tom and Ray Magliozzi and Doug Berman.

Distributed by King Features Syndicate Inc.

AUTOS UNDER $1000 VOLKSWAGEN Fox, ‘87. White, 4 spd, 125K mi & many more to go. No ac, runs very well. $700 obo. 866-0177

SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES TOYOTA, RAV-4, ‘99 Green, fair mechanical condition. Needs minor body work and the heater does not work. Tow hitch & roof rack. This was a reconstructed Veh. when new that has always run well W/never a problem. $5,800.00. Owner. 504-495-9446

VANS Tool Sale. Automotives, body parts, hand tools, jacks, etc. Very cheap. Call (504) 915-4749 for more info

DOMESTIC AUTOS BUICK Lesabre, ‘97. White. 50,000 miles, V-6, automatic w/air, power windows & locks. $pecial $4995. Call at 504-365-1655. (Dlr) Country Squire Station Wagon, 1986.

90,000 miles. Will haul a lot of people and stuff. $600. 615-7392 DODGE Avenger, ‘96. Green. 106,000 miles. Automatic w/air. $pecial $3495.

Call Al at 504-365-1655. (Dlr.) DODGE Dakota Club Cab RT Sport P/U, ‘99. Red, 5 speed w/air, bed liner. Looks and drives good. $pecial $4495. Call Al at 504-365-1655. (Dlr.) FORD Contour, ‘96. Green, 51,000 miles, automatic w/air, power windows and locks. $pecial $3495. Call Al at 504-365-1655. (Dlr.) HYUNDAI Accent, ‘99. Red, automatic w/air. $pecial $2995. Call Al at 504365-1655. (Dlr.) PLYMOUTH Breeze, ‘97. Gray, automatic w/air, power windows & locks. $pecial $2695. Call Al at 504-365-1655. (Dlr.) SATURN SL2, ‘98. Green. 81K miles, leather interior. $pecial $3995. Call Al at 504-365-1655. (Dlr.)

IMPORTED AUTOS BMW Z-3, ‘96. Black, 86,000 miles. Very good condition. $9.000. Call 861-8008 MAZDA MPV Van, ‘94. White. Automatic w/dual air. (Needs work.) Power windows & locks. $pecial $1,495. Call Al at 504365-1655. (Dlr.) MERCEDES CLK 430 ‘01, am/fm, cd, leather, sunroof. Exc cond. $25,900 3191640 MERCEDES E320 ‘01, Am/fm cass, leather, sunroof. $24,900 905-1963 MERCEDES Turbo ‘84. Runs great, cruise cont, pwr wds/ locks, ltr seats, am/fm radio. With a little love & care, this baby could be placed in car shows. $2500 price in n/a. 473-5276 Mini Cooper S ‘04, Mint cond. Royal Blue, loaded. 20,500 miles. Moving must sell. $21,500 Call 486-8363 MITSUBISHI Eclipse Spyder Conv.’04 Silver w/blk top, V6 auto, power windows/locks, cd player, 33,000 mi. $17,100 Call 985-287-1132

DODGE Caravan, ‘01. Gray. 62,000 miles. Automatic w/air, 7 passenger seating. REDUCED! $pecial $4995. Call Al at 504-365-1655. (Dlr) HONDA Odyssey Van, ‘95. Blue.

Automatic, w/dual air, power windows & locks. $pecial $3995. Call Al at 3651655. (Dlr)

MOPEDS/SCOOTERS New VESPA ET2, ‘05. Only 16 mi, 2 tone custom color - blue & silver, comes w/ lock & helmet. $2800 (retails for $3700). 416-0865 day, 943-2040 nt.

Vespa ET2, 2005. Red. Acquired 04/05.

Top Case & Cover. 1,282 miles, $2,750.

504-482-8158 Vespa ET4, ‘02.

White, 1000 mi. $2850 Call Alex 957-8377.

PARTS/ACCESSORIES New 2005 Ford Mustang Tires w/ Rims. Never used. $600. Call 866-0177

PORSCHE Boxster S ‘00, 6 speed, Excellent condition$26,300 319-1640 TOYOTA Matrix, ‘04. Sky Blue. 15,000 miles, CD, good cond. $14,000. Call 261-7016 www.bestofneworleans.com | August 30, 2005 | Gambit Weekly

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THINK ABOUT ME Athletic SM, 43, 5’7”, 165lbs, Sagittarius, enjoys motorcycles and sports cars, seeks single woman, 32-46, who likes to try new things and meet new people. 527157 OPEN ROAD SWM, 53, 5’10”, average build, N/S, likes movies and motorcycles, ISO SF, 36-53, N/S, for committed LTR. 573836 LAID-BACK GUY BM, 30, 190lbs, looking for a female, 2535, to spend time with, possibly start a relationship. 778952 OUTGOING GUY BM, 6’1”, likes playing sports, movies, shopping, and more. Wants to meet a special female, 18-24, to spend time with. 781626 CATHOLIC REPUBLICAN SWM, 38, 5’9”, 22lbs, bald/blue, stocky build, college-educated, intelligent, seeks spiritual, conservative female, 2549, for friendship first, possible LTR. 780671 CREOLE GENTLEMAN SBM, 52, interested in meeting a woman, 30-65, who enjoys festivals, creole music, creole culture, and the southern way of life. 775195 ANYONE OUT THERE? SWM, 46, 5’9”, 186lbs, Leo, OTR truck driver, enjoys motorcycling, shopping, movies and good meals. Seeking loving, fun, easygoing, like-minded woman for friendship, possible LTR. 707285 FIRST STRING SWM, 60s, 6’, fit, salt-n-pepper hair, Gemini, N/S, financially/emotionally secure, seeks independent, intelligent, sincere SWF, 50-60, N/S, trim, happy, pretty a+, for companionship. 561899 THE DRUMMER BOY SBM, 43, 5’10”, 270lbs, Virgo, N/S, enjoys being involved with church, dining out, boating, and fishing. Seeking WF, 20-40, N/S. 597388 SEEKING SOULMATE Handsome, muscular, sincere, affectionate DWPM, 40ish, 6’2”, seeks sincere, pretty unattached SWF, 30-45, emotionally available, fit, slender, N/S, drug-free, possible LTR. No small children, please. 446703 SINGLE YOUNG MAN SM, 34, looking for nice, young female who’s head is on straight, who also wants a future with somebody.

761081 HOW ARE YOU? Outgoing SWM, 55, N/S, financially and emotionally secure, attends church regularly, seeks single woman, 18-65.

760350 EASYGOING, HANDSOME SBCM, 48, 5’11”, 210lbs, Aries, N/S, loves music, reading, the park, and computers. Seeking woman, 35-52, N/S, who feels the same way. 767836 TREAT ME RIGHT SWM, 6’1”, medium build, hardworking, likes playing pool, hanging out with friends, movies, more. Seeking WF, 1834, to spend time with. 756371 CALL ME BM, 29, 5’10”, 170lbs, likes relaxing at home. Looking for a full-figured woman for dating, possible LTR. 757000 FRIENDS FIRST SWM, 65, N/D, N/S, emotionally fit, seeks tall, fit lady who doesn’t cry over wet hair in a rain storm, panic over a lost lipstick. 743512 PROFESSIONAL SM, 6’, 185lbs, brown/brown, enjoys fun on weekends, long drives, concerts, more. Seeking WF, 30-50, for friendship first. 696951 BABY BE MINE SBM, 40, 5’9”, 215lbs, Leo, N/S, enjoys quiet times at home, dining out, seeks BF, 28-45, for LTR. 715076 TRYING TO START OVER Widowed WM, 41, 5’10”, 200lbs, short hair, 3 cats, 2 dogs, smoker, tired of being alone, seeks friendly, honest WF, 3050, who loves animals. 742564 SERIOUS BLACK GENTLEMAN 52, 5’9”, 172lbs, psychologist, likes Reggae, Latin, Classical music, cook, travel. Seeking A/H/WF, 22-58, friendship and romance. 518758

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SINCERE AND ROMANTIC GHF, soft butch, 60, 5’6”, 140lbs, olive-complexion, youthful looking, very attractive, likes reading, health and fitness, dining out, more. Seeking feminine GF, 47-62, for LTR. 468684 JUST THE GIRLS SBF, 31, 5’6”, full-time student, N/S, seeks BF, 21-35, for a friendship, possibly leading to something serious.

755263 CALL ME SBF, 23, 4’7”, looking for fun, exciting, spontaneous girl to share good times and friendship. 568267 FEMININE FEMALE... seeks kindred spirit, 45+, N/S, who is kind, soulful, mature, professional, financially secure, who loves travel US and abroad. Tall, thin, attractive preferred. 522066 SPECIAL FRIEND Feminine BF, 46, loves to enjoy life, seeks BF, 35-50, with same qualities, who would like to take one day at a time.

Let’s talk. 677515 WILL IT BE YOU Attractive SBF, 47, butch, 5’5”, loving, caring, understanding, enjoys shooting pool, movies, quiet times home. Seeking understanding, caring female, small-medium build, who’s not about games. 683146 FOXY SENIOR Very attractive Old Metarie WF, 69, college educated, enjoys fine dining, yachting. Seeking financially secure gentleman, similar interests, 60-75, N/S. 979522

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QUEEN-SIZE HEART Affectionate SBF, 30, full-figured, voluptuous, enjoys reading, shopping, partying. Seeking feminine SBF, 25-45, for partying, possibly more. Must love kids.

739369 COULD YOU BE THE ONE? Open-minded, active SF, 41, 145lbs, 5’5”, dark brown eyes, caramel complexion, enjoys music, fitness. Seeking energetic, sincere man to share talks, good times, friendship more.

574595 CATCH OF THE DAY Family-oriented SBPF, 35, 5’4, 150lbs, Scorpio, N/S, enjoys the finer things in life, seeks BPF, 35-50, for relationship.

640539 LOVING, CARING... respectful SBF, 32, 5’3”, H/W proportionate, smoker, works in medical field, enjoys biking. Seeking woman, 25-40, for friendship, possible dating.

722062 DON’T PASS ME BY SBF, 22, 5’2”, 160lbs, cute in the face, thick all over, seeks SBF, 22-28, smoker, who is very attractive, likes to read, watch movies. 724155 HI SBF, 27, mother, homebody type, honest, easygoing and fun, seeks compatible lady not into games, to share friendship, happiness. 727747 HEY LADIES SBF, 41, 5’3”, 140lbs, brown eyes, short hair, open and honest, seeks sincere, happy, drama-free lady to share the good things in life. 739525

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What’s this @ symbol all about?

When you see the @ at the end of an ad, that means the advertiser has a profile (and maybe even a picture!) at our online personals site.

Note the username listed after the @, and check it out at www.gambitweeklypersonals.com !

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HOSPITALITY MAN Outgoing, interesting SBM, 41, Gemini, N/S, seeks SBF, 35-42, who is looking for real romance. 762232

SMILE AGAIN SBM, 24, 180lbs, Cancer, smoker, seeks woman, 18-30, for possible romance.

770764 POSITIVE CHOICE Churchgoing SBM, 45, seeks SF, 2442, who likes to have a few drinks at the club, hit up flea markets, garage sales on the weekend. 616212 LET’S MEET WM, 69, young-looking and acting, looking for a companion, 45-70, who is also young-at-heart. 643892 I NEED YOU! Semi-retired SBM, 50, 6’2”, 247lbs smoker, college-grad, ISO a mature non-materialistic home buddy type female, any race. Let’s meet for coffee.

945593 I’M WAITING! SBM, 38, N/S, in search of SB/HF, 2841, who is easygoing, mature, loves to relax!

761131 SIMILAR INTERESTS? SM, 56, 5’7”, 210lbs, likes playing pool, having fun, going to movies, quiet times, reading, more. Seeking a woman, 4856, with a sense of humor. 585751 GIVING IT A SHOT DWM, 61, 6’1’, 210lbs, enjoys fishing, outdoors, dining, camping, movies, animals. Seeking SF with similar interests to share some time with. 634135 LIKE BBQ’S? SWM, 46, 5’9”, single dad of a 16-yearold son, smoker, enjoys movies and dining out. Seeking WF, 40-50, smoker, for LTR. 656299 LEAVE THE GAMES BEHIND SBM, 37, 5’8”, 170lbs, Taurus, N/S, mechanic, seeks a realistic, level-headed BF, 18-30. 717725 HAVE NO FEAR I’M HERE SBM, 31, 6’3”, 170lbs, smoker, loves books, cars, poetry, and traveling. Seeking woman, 50+, race unimportant.

Personality is. 720925 INTERESTED? SWM, 48, cab driver, smoker, enjoys camping, fishing, movies. Seeking easygoing WF, 35-51. 721561 HOPE YOU’RE THE ONE SM, 45, 5’8”, 150lbs, brown/hazel, childless, likes Italian, Chinese food, movies, horseback riding, biking, fishing, boating, faires/festivals. ISO similar SF. 728237 MARRIAGE-MINDED DBM, 55, easy on the eyes, honest, mature, thoughtful, a good communicator, 6’1”, 210lbs, seeks slender/petite lady, 25-55, family-oriented, intelligent, homebody type. 739132 POSSIBLE FIT? DWM, a youthful 58, PRF, seeks to share friendship and intimacy with considerate, intelligent, attractive and fit S/DF, 25-50, who enjoys nature, theater, music, conversation, travel and her own passionate interest but who is not into religion, astrology, conservative politics or smoking. 778372

ARE YOU THE ONE Easygoing, honest, fun SBM, 24, looking for a North Shore man who’s honest, loves life, knows how to have a good time. Friendship, fun, romance?

686578 BEAUTIFUL DAY SWM, 57, 6’, 215lbs, nurse, Gemini, N/S, N/D, enjoys motorcycles, dining out, theater, and his dog. Seeking man, 35-65, N/S, for friendship, possible romance. 768774 HEY BUDDY...

Good-looking SWM, 39, 155lbs, Irish/ German descent, sandy blond hair, seeks similar buddy to get together with.

Friendship first. Interested?

576388 NICE GUY GM, 45, interested in meeting another outgoing, fun-loving male, for occasional dating and possible LTR. I enjoy bowling, swimming, pets, home life, family.

260616 CUTE GUY WM, 5’7”, blond/blue, interested in meeting a polite, considerate WM for conversation, walks in the Quarter and friendship. Maybe leading to more. Age open. 243424 LOVE HAPPENS SBM, 28, 5’ 11”, 150lbs, athletic build, Capricorn, N/S, seeks BM, 1842, for friendship, possible romance.

747353

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text “gwtxt” to 23578

© 2004 g8wave

MID-CITY CULTURE Pretty, blue-eyed redhead, into dogs, coffee, culture, learning, alternative health, travel, spirituality, NYC, ISO positive, playful, fit, educated, broad-minded intellectual, 40s, to share new experiences. 464708 SEEKING UNDERSTANDING MAN SBF, 35, Virgo, N/S, works in the medical field. Seeking adventurous, flexible BCM, 38-45, willing to try new things.

692208 FOREVER YOUNG! SWF, 65, enjoys walks on the beaches and action movies. Seeking S/DWM, 55-65, young-at-heart, with many activities and interests, for LTR. 945668 IT’S A SIGN Attractive, petite WF, 55, reddish brown/ hazel, enjoys dancing, music, art, travel, sports. Seeking quiet, caring WM, 5059, N/S, N/Drinker. 837592 GLORIOUS SUNSET AHEAD Attractive brunette, WCF, 60, 5’3”, loves God, nature, music, travel, country. Seeking SWCM, 59-65, sense of humor, to share life. 372693 LOOKING FOR HAPPINESS I am seeking Mr. Wonderful because I know he’s out there somewhere. Seeking a man, 49-60, who likes to love and be loved in return. 595403 GET TO KNOW ME SBF, 19, N/S, feels the perfect weekend would be spent walking by the water, seeks SBM, 19-25, for possible LTR. 775119 FUN TO BE AROUND? Full-figured BF, looking for and independent, honest, caring, sweet BM, 2540, who can make me laugh, for dating.

781555 HARDWORKING PISCES BF, 23, 5’11”, N/S, enjoys dining out, movies and having fun. Looking for BM, 21-27, for friendship first. 782268 ARE YOU ON a quest for adventures in art galleries, theaters, concerts, flea markets? 60year-old WF, seeks a mature WM for companionship and maybe more.

945652 HOPE TO HEAR FROM YOU SF, 63, 5’1”, likable, lovable, easygoing, affectionate, honest, loves children, keeping active, quality talks, laughter and simple times. Seeking lad-back, understanding, loving, warm-hearted gen779731 tleman. LTR? MR. RIGHT, MEET MS. RIGHT Attractive SBF, 30, N/S, looking for very spontaneous SBM, 35-38, N/S, who enjoys movies, dining out, taking trips out of town. 682836 HAPPY Good-looking, educated WF, 53, likes shopping, dancing, movies, romance.

Looking for SWM, 50-60, for dating and companionship. 779865 SHORT & BEAUTIFUL SBF, 30, 5’, brown eyes, N/S, enjoys movies, shooting pool, the lake. Seeking BM, 24-35, who likes to have fun.

750958 SINGLE MOTHER Very attractive, confident SBPF, 33, 5’3”, 135lbs, likes dining out, music, museums. Seeking BM, 27-40, N/S, H/W proportionate. 778780 LOVE HAPPENS SBF, 38, full fugured, Scorpio, N/S, seeks man, 35-50, N/S, for possible romance. 769233 I’M YOUR VENUS DBF, 39, with a full-figure, wishes to meet SBM for dancing, music, dining out and quiet times together. 526442 LET’S MEET SF, 54, 5’10”, enjoys reading, movies, dining out, walks, more. Seeking a man, 54-60, who shares those same interests. 754971 WHY WAIT DPWF, 47, Leo, smoker, likes, fishing, dining, hanging out, adventure, seeks WM, 45-60, for friendship. 643260 SINGLE MOM HF, 20, 5’5”, 125lbs, slim, cute, looking for a mature, honest, secure man, 2428. If that’s you, call me. 756506

ATTRACTIVE ON NORTH SHORE SWF, 60s, younger-looking, dark brown hair w/blonde highlights, dark eyes, N/S, no children, enjoys dining out, dancing, etc. ISO gentleman, 60-80, w/similar interests, N/S, for LTR. 760474 ATTRACTIVE REDHEAD Widowed WF, 60, 5’5”, semi-retired nurse, N/S, seeks WM, 59-72, N/S, for friendship, possible romance. 450885 WALKS ON THE BEACH SWF, 37, 5’6”, average build, smoker, ISO loyal SWM, 36-45, who knows what he wants out of life. 621306 SEEKING TALL MAN SWF, 37, smoker, cook, has 2 kids at home, loves to go to shows and do family activities, seeks SM, 6’1”+, smoker, w/same interests. 630440 SHORT AND SWEET SWF, 21, 5’4”, 180lbs, student, enjoys movies, anything fun. Seeking caring, honest, hardworking SWM, 20-30, for dating, possible LTR. 650258 OUTGOING ATTITUDE SBF, 50, enjoys parks, zoos, reading.

Seeking intelligent, well-spoken, welldressed gentleman, a good conversationalist to share movies, dining, romance and happiness. 745172 BEAUTIFUL, ARTICULATE Artsy, creative SF, 37, N/S, real estate developer, likes romantic, girly movies.

Seeking SM, 30-65, N/S, for possible relationship. 485678 OUTGOING SBF, 33, 5’7”, bookworm, Taurus, N/S, loves movies, and biking. Seeking BM, 30-40, N/S, for friendship, possible romance. 728681 SEEKING TALL MAN BF, 40, 5’11”, likes going to movies, plays, concerts, dining out, more, Looking for BM, 40-46, to be friends with first, possibly leading to LTR. 650787 RETIRED GEMINI DBF, 57, 5’4”, 130lbs, N/S, likes going out, long walks in the park and dining out. Seeking nice gentleman, 57-68, to enjoy good times with. 665491 LOVELY LADY Outgoing female, 57, Scorpio, enjoys movies, dining, church, seeks caring, church-going, man, 57-67, for possible relationship. 666988 HOPE 2 FIND U DWF,70, easygoing, N/S, Gemini, loves the outdoors, dancing, much more. Looking to meet someone with the same qualities and interests? Is it you? 680219 LOVE, ROMANCE, AND LTR Down-to-earth SBF, 39, 5’3”, 145lbs, N/S, hobbies include reading, cooking, movies, quiet moments, seeks kind SBM, 33-43, N/S, who wants to connect. 687003 FAMILY-ORIENTED...

Christian SWF, 50s, N/S, one daughter, looking or SWM, 50-60, who is professional, and enjoys fine dining, dancing, the arts, festivals and more. 690049 STARTING OVER? BF, 6’3”, 250lbs, would like to meet a SBM, 45-60, who enjoys fishing, travel and playing cards. 695153 HOPE YOU’RE OUT THERE Attractive, spiritually sound BF, 37, enjoys great conversation, the arts, outdoor activities and trying new things.

Seeking attractive, socially aware B/HM, 28-45, with similar interests. 695997 INCURABLE ROMANTIC SBCF, 55, 5’7”, 200lbs, N/S, licensed insurance agent and caregiver, loves reading, cooking, and long drives. Seeking BCM, 50-60, N/S. 720961 WORTH YOUR CALL SBF, 37, looking for a loving, caring, churchgoing, fun-loving SA/BM, homebody type, family-oriented and reliable to share happiness with. LTR? 725524 OUTDOORS PERSON SBF, 39, N/S, social drinker, no children, enjoys traveling, plays, seafood and Mexican cuisine. Seeking BM, 40-49, N/S. 741724

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More ways to get started!

Online - www.txt2flrt.com - enter “gwtxt” in the

SHOW ME NEW ORLEANS SBF, 38, looking for SBF, no children, N/S, for intellectual conversation, possible travel, having fun. 575511 ARE YOU THAT PERSON? SBF, 21, looking for a female, 21+, who is mature, attractive, independent and knows what she wants in life. 688752

☎

ID code box on the registration page

s - Call 1-866-312-FLRT (3578) and enter promo code “3594”

The first text message in each conversation is Free!

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☎

Abbreviations: A-Asian

B-Black

C-Christian

D-Divorced

F-Female

H-Hispanic

J-Jewish

M-Male

N/S-Non-Smoker

S-Single

G-Gay

For customer service, call 1-800-252-0920 or email us at gambitweekly@placepersonal.com GUIDELINES: Personals are for adults 18 or over seeking monogamous relationships. To ensure your safety, carefully screen all responses and have first meetings occur in a public place. This publication reserves the right to edit, revise, or reject any advertisement at any time at its sole discretion and assumes no responsibility a service of for the content of or replies to any ad. Not all ads have corresponding voice messages. To review our complete guidelines, call (617) 425-2636

126 |

Gambit Weekly | August 30, 2005 | www.bestofneworleans.com

To purchase more than your free 25 words, at $2.00 per word, please call 1-800-234-5120

GW BULLETIN TO ADVERTISE CALL

‘05 VESPA FOR SALE

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AFFORABLE HEALTH INSURANCE For 22 yrs Benefit Planning Group has helped people in the metro N.O. area find affordable health insurance. Individual, Family & Group coverage available w/ A rated companies. For a free quote call Richard (504) 833-3434.

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR

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FAX

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E M A I L classadv@gambitweekly.com

METAIRIE CEMETERY

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MOBIL FITNESS BY JEWEL

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I’ll bring the gym to you. 232-0623

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Religious Science Practitioner is interested in starting a NEW THOUGHT study group: Kate Murphy 310/618-1740 or agapekate@gmail.com.

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Specializing in TENANT EVICTION & RENT RECOVERY A full legal/collection service specializing in landlord rights by recovery of lost rent & cost of property damage.

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504-942-1544

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QuickBooks our specialty.

Will do your work at our office or Train your people in your office.

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Guaranteed lowest Prices. Call 482-2800

WORD OF LIFE CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP

a Lakefront church with a multicultural flavor and a family environment Welcomes you to Fellowship at 2222 Lakeshore Drive Sunday 10:45 am - Worship Services Wednesday 7 pm - Bible Study

Crossword

CLEANING SERVICE RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL BONDED & REFERENCES CALL CHRISTINA AT 831-0606 OR 232-5554 CUSTOM COVER-UPS

Shades, Slipcovers, Drapery, Bedrooms, Baths, Clothing Alterations, Indoor / Outdoor Canvas. Call us at 504-427-2632

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HANDYMAN SERVICES

Carpentry, Small Jobs, Kitchen and Bath Remodeling.

Quality Work! 20+ yrs exp. Licensed and Insured.

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BUY OR SELL AT GARAGE SALE PRICES!

MAUSOLEUM BURIAL

1 plot for 2 caskets next to waterfall, Chapel of Peace Metairie Lawn Cemetery $9500 913-9113 www.bestofneworleans.com | August 30, 2005 | Gambit Weekly

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Great Taste. Less Filling.

Miller Lite has 96 cals., 3.2g carbs., less than 1g protein, 0.0g fat per 12 oz serving. Bud Light has 6.6g carbs. per 12 oz serving.