Latest Issue: February 2022—Mardi Gras Manual by Where Y'at Magazine

February 2022

WhereYat.com

DINING • MUSIC • ENTERTAINMENT

• NIGHTLIFE

REX AT

150 p. 6

MARDI GRAS MANUAL

Mardi Gras Manual | Where Y'at Magazine

The Presbytère 751 Chartres Street New Orleans LouisianaStateMuseum.org

Exhibition Open February 1, 2022 through December 11, 2022

CONTENTS 6 28 30 34 36 40 44 52 54

150 Years of Rex Black Debutante and Carnival Balls Homemade Carnival Hypochondriac Guide to Mardi Gras Getting Trashed: Carnival Cleanup

Eats and Drinks Along Uptown Parades

64 66 74

$20 & Under

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief: Josh Danzig Creative Director: Robert Witkowski Executive Editor: Burke Bischoff Copy Editor: Donald Rickert

Restaurant Guide

Movie Editors: David Vicari, Fritz Esker

Bar Guide

Contributing Writers: Kathy Bradshaw, Phil LaMancusa, Debbie Lindsey, Kim Ranjbar, Burke Bischoff, Julie Mitchell, Greg Roques, Eliana Blum, Leigh Wright, Steve Melendez, Michelle Nicholson, Sabrina Stone, Kimmie Tubre, Emily Hingle

Mardi Gras Safety Tips Day Trippin': Mardi Gras Getaways Dos and Don’ts of Online Dating My Funny Valentine

Entertainment & Nightlife 48 80 81

February 2022

Food & Drink

Lakeside2Riverside

Extras

Cover Photo: Gustavo Escanelle

12 22 24 26 76 78

Carnival Parade Maps

Director of Sales: Jim Sylve

Dancing & Marching Groups Northshore Parades Mardi Gras Calendar

Interns: Monwell Frazier, Frances Deese, Gracie Wise, Mathilde Camus, Jariah Johnson, Enrique Monzon, Jr.

Tales From the Quarter Po-Boy Views

Where Y'Been

Subscribe: Receive 1 year (14 issues) for $30 and get a FREE Where Y’at phone credit card holder. Subscribe today at WhereYat.com.

Film Reviews

Letter from the Publisher Oh…it’s Carnival time! Mardi Gras is back with a bang. Enjoy this Mardi Gras Manual filled with parade maps, Carnival culture, and even Valentine’s stories. All hail Rex! Longtime contributor and renowned float builder Rene Pierre shares the history of 150 years of the King of Carnival, as well as chatting with Rex historian Stephen Hales. If you’re wondering where to eat near the parade route, don’t miss Marigny Lanaux’s rundown. And if Mardi Gras isn’t your bag, Jeff Boudreaux gives some ideas on where to escape to. Want to decorate your home for Carnival? Then Sabrina Stone’s piece on Mardi Gras craft projects is for you. We’re also welcoming our new Director of Sales Jim Sylve to the Where Y’at team. Jim is going to make a great addition to the squad, and we’re excited to have him on board. Stay safe, and don’t drink and drive! –Josh Danzig, Publisher

Photographers and Designers: Gus Escanelle, Kimmie Tubre, Emily Hingle, Kathy Bradshaw, Robert Witkowski

Mardi Gras Manual | Where Y'at Magazine

22 52

PHOTOS, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: COURTESY REX ORGANIZATION / RENE PIERRE; COURTESY MANDE MILKSHAKERS; KIM RANJBAR; ADOBE STOCK; WHERE Y'AT STAFF

Features

MAKE

THE GOOD

TIMES COUNT

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150 ALL HAIL

Years of Rex

THE KING By Rene Pierre

Rex on Mardi Gras Day, 1907 6

Mardi Gras Manual | Where Y'at Magazine

We are fortunate that early French explorers visiting the banks of the Mississippi during the late 1700s called it Point Du Mardi Gras. They inherently brought the French-based holiday with them to continue their traditions and customs. The future citizens kept that tradition alive and left us with the greatest free show on Earth. In the 19th century, Mardi Gras began to slip out of control as revelers began to participate in a dark side of street celebrations. The Mistick Krewe of Comus singlehandedly saved the day by showing us how to party in organized fashion. They taught us how to stage street pageantry called parades. The organizations behind these parades were called krewes. They spelled crew with the letter K as a pun to separate it from the notions of work crews or ship crews. In 1872, it’s documented that the Grand Duke Alexis of Russia was on a tour of the United States and was in New Orleans on Mardi Gras, where he was greeted with the first parade led by Rex (Latin for “king”), the King of Carnival. Rex founders organized that parade to help the city with a public daytime celebration to complement what the more private Comus organization was presenting at night. They also hoped a new parade would help the city by attracting more visitors. The Grand Duke enjoyed what he saw and so did the participants. It became

such a hit they continued to parade on Mardi Gras and took on the role of the King of Mardi Gras. The organization incorporated under the name “The School of Design.” For a century and a half, the Rex organization has become the frontline leader of all Mardi Gras parades. They’re instrumental in philanthropy behind the scenes as they give diligently to the city’s Civic Fund annually. They also sponsor many other educational programs. Post-Katrina Rex formed the Pro Bono Publico Foundation—named for the Rex motto—and has given more than $10 million to support public schools in New Orleans. “Rex in the Classroom” is another popular program, and hundreds of school children visit the Rex den each year. Rex also partners with the Zulu Social Aid and Pleasure Club to support schools. They have evolved from small, papier-mâché decorated wagons to the beautiful, large, canvas-stretched floats we see today. A small family-owned artist group started by George Soulié produced their first floats. They were constructed in warehouses they called dens. Blaine Kern took on that role in the early 1950s. Floats began to see changes in appearances for the better. Paints became brighter, props were made of fiberglass as opposed to papier-mâché, and floats began to be pulled by tractors instead of mules.

WIKIMEDIA COMMONS / PUBLIC DOMAIN

On Mardi Gras, most New Orleanians are celebrating in revelry while the rest of the country just functions on a regular Tuesday. As we discuss the founding of Rex, we must look at how Mardi Gras landed in New Orleans.

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The Rex organization kept all the traditions of Mardi Gras well intact through the years. Its royalty is always kept secret until they are announced the weekend before the parade. Its captain and riders are masked. In the 1960s, the Rex krewe introduced the first novelty throw known as the doubloon. It became so popular that all the other krewes wanted to throw them. In the 1970s, when Popeyes Chicken chain grew exponentially, krewes started throwing doubloons that acted as a coupon for free chicken dinners at the franchise. This phenomenon presented problems as it caused many outbreaks of fights

WITH DR. STEPHEN HALES, CARNIVAL HISTORIAN AND ARCHIVIST FOR THE REX ORGANIZATION Where Y'at: Who was the first king? Dr. Stephen Hales: Lewis J. Salomon—he was a young man who worked in finance. All of the Rex founders were young and included newspapermen, business men, and others. WY: Where was the first den located? Hales: Near Calliope Street in the neighborhood now occupied by the train station. WY: What company or team built the first floats for Rex?

Calliope Street property was needed to build the new Union Rail Station.

Hales: Records vary, but Rex’s founders in 1872 probably numbered around a dozen. They invented Rex, the King of Carnival, the motto “pro bono publico,” the Carnival colors of purple, green, and gold, and the Carnival anthem “If Ever I Cease to Love” one evening as they gathered in the lobby of the St. Charles Hotel (where Place St. Charles is today). That meeting was just two weeks before Mardi Gras, 1872. Rex started issuing edicts, commanding people to put on their costumes and show up for the first Rex parade, and they did. It was very spur-of-the-moment—they even had to borrow a costume for Rex to wear. Rex rode on a horse in 1872 and for several years afterward. The Organization has around 700 members. Around 450 members ride in the parade.

WY: How many years did the Kern family service your floats?

WY: When did y'all move to Claiborne Avenue? Hales: The Calliope Street den burned in 1950. Rex was already in the process of moving to the Claiborne Avenue site—the

Hales:: From the 1950s until 2019—more than 60 years. WY: What date did the krewe accept its first African American member? Hales: While the Rex Organization is private and does not share membership information, newspapers reported that the first Black members joined the organization in the early 1990s. WY: How many floats rolled in the first parade? Hales: The first several parades were not traditional themed parades with decorated floats. Decorated wagons and delivery vans and other vehicles joined marching bands and maskers on foot and horseback to create a mileslong improvised parade. Rex and his attendants led the parade on horseback.

ROBERT WITKOWSKI (2)

The Rex Room in Antoine's Restaurant

Hales: The first few years, there were no themes or floats, just a whole lot of decorated wagons and marching groups. In 1877, Rex put its first themed and more formal parade on the streets. George Soulié and his family firm were early float artists helping make each year’s parade more beautiful than the last. Artists like Charles Briton and Bror Wikstrom provided the sketches that the float artists worked from.

WY: How many members were part of the krewe’s first year and how many do you have now?

Mardi Gras Manual | Where Y'at Magazine

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beautiful pageantry called “The Meeting of the Courts.” Prior to Hurricane Katrina, this affair was held at the Municipal Auditorium in Armstrong Park. The Rex Ball is more a grand reception than a ball. Guests dress in formal white-tie attire and ball gowns, members are not masked, and there are no call-outs as there are in some other traditional balls. Rex remains to be one of the most sought after and beautiful parades in all of Mardi Gras. Today we can enjoy the return of small extras like the annual parade bulletin in vivid color included in the local newspaper for fans to enjoy. Its floats are stunningly adorned with gorgeous paper flowers and dangling decorations along with absolute beautiful artwork by its artists, such as New Orleans-born professional scenic artist

A Part of the Ray and Jessica Brandt Family Since 2019

Lunch & Dinner Wednesday – Friday Dinner Tuesaday – Saturday • Closed Sun 1838 Napoleon Ave. • Raw Oyster Bar • 895-4877 Rex parade, 1879

1916

c. 1930

1948

1973

2017

krewes with new laws that prevented racial and gender-based discrimination. Unlike some of its parading cousins, they survived it and complied with city changes. Today, Rex has opened its ranks to members of African American descent. This was unheard of in its formative years. In the late 1960s, they invited the first all African American high school marching band to participate in its parade. The school was St. Augustine High. In 2017, to celebrate the 50th anniversary of that first march with Rex, alumni members of that band were invited back to ride in its anniversary parade. Rex still holds the tradition of staging its ball on the evening of Carnival to close out the season by meeting Comus in

Mardi Gras Manual | Where Y'at Magazine

Mr. Raymond Bowie, who painted many Rex parades for Kern Studios. Since 2019, the krewe has commissioned Royal Artists Inc. to produce its parade. It is believed that the Rex organization holds just about one thousand members and continues to be active in philanthropy throughout the city. Its leaders have active roles on New Orleans’ Mardi Gras Planning Committee, currently co-chaired by the Rex Captain and the President of the Zulu Social Aid and Pleasure Club. The Rex den remains on Claiborne Avenue where they store and work on those beautiful floats. The grandfather of Mardi Gras and its colors have coined the idea of street pageantry New Orleans style since its inception a century and a half ago and has proven to be darn good at it. Hail Rex!

ORLEANS COLLECTION, GIFT OF THE SCHOOL OF DESIGN, ACC. NO. 1977.38.92; THE HISTORIC NEW ORLEANS COLLECTION, ACC. NO. 1974.25.19.354; GUSTAVO ESCANELLE

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among spectators. City officials also saw some issues with the law as it pertains to advertising on throw items. Laws were passed prohibiting commercialization of any kind in Mardi Gras parades. The sizes of the floats also grew with the expansion of membership. However, Rex doesn’t use super floats like newer organizations, super-krewes like Endymion and Bacchus. In its early decades, Rex floats would carry six to 10 men on average. Presently, their floats can carry up to 40 riders. During its longevity, Rex did see some dark carnivals. Cancelled Mardi Gras celebrations due to WWII, the Korean War, and the Police Strike of 1979 kept the parade from rolling. It also suffered through a trying moment in the late 1990s as a city councilwoman challenged them and other historic oldline

CLOCKWISE, FROM TOP LEFT: ROBERT WITKOWSKI FROM THE ANTOINE'S REX ROOM COLLECTION; THE HISTORIC NEW ORLEANS COLLECTION, GIFT OF WALDEMAR S. NELSON, ACC. NO. 2003.0182.396; THE HISTORIC NEW ORLEANS COLLECTION, ACC. NO. 1986.112.1; THE HISTORIC NEW

A New Orleans Tradition Since 1913

WhereYat.com | February 2022

Mardi Gras Parade Maps Krewe du Vieux

Chewbacchus

Sat., February 12, 6:30 p.m. In 2006, this was the first parade to march after Hurricane Katrina. It's a fan favorite for their irreverent cocial and political satire.

Krewe Bohème

Sat., February 12, 7:00 p.m., follows Krewe du Vieux The parade ends with The Bedlam Ball. Their slogan is, "The perople will rule—unitil a suitable replacement can be found."

Fri., February 11, 7:00 p.m. This largely-female krewe was created based on the absinthe, a formerly outlawed liqueur and an ingredient in Sazeracs—believed to have had hallucinatory effects.

Men in Black conclude the Chewbacchus parade.

2022

Sat., February 5, 7:00 p.m. Chewbacchus consists of over 150 distinct subkrewes, each of which pays loving (and sometimes satirical) homage to the full spectrum of Science Fiction, Fantasy, Horror and everything in between.

krewedelusion

'tit Rex

Sun., February 13, 4:30 p.m. 'tit Rex is a unique micro-krewe, founded by artists, teachers, tradesmen, and creatives as an alternative to the extravegance of the super krewes. Parade schedules and routes are subject to change. Check whereyat.com for updates.

FRAN KLIN AVE. .

CH AR TR ES ST ..

Continues (See Inset, right)

Mardi Gras Manual | Where Y'at Magazine

LEE CIRCLE

MISSI

VER I R I P SSIP CONVENTION CENTER BLVD. .

N. PETERS ST. .

ST ..

Krewe du Vieux

TCHOUPITO ULAS ST. .

ST .. DE CA TU R

RO YA LS T. . ST ..

CAFE DU MONDE

ST .. BA SIN

JACKSON SQUARE

BI EN VIL LE ST ..

CA NA L

Krewe du Vieux Inset

(Cont. from French Quarter)

ST ..

MISSIS S

ST .P ET ER

ST ..

BO UR BO N

ST .A NN

BU RG UN DY

ST ..

N. RA MP AR T

ST ..

MARIGNY ST. .

ROYA L ST.

MORIAL CONVENTION CENTER

FROM TOP: COURTESY INTERGALACTIV KREWE OF CHEWBACCHUS; WIKIMEDIA COMMS / INFROGMATION OF NEW ORLEANS

The French Quarter during Mardi Gras parade season.

.. N. RAMPART ST

HOME R PLE SSY W AY

. MADEVILLE ST.

AVE. . ELYSIAN FIELDS

FRENCHMEN ST. .

. DE AVE. ST. CLAU

N. MUSIC ST. .

ST. ROCH MARKET

WhereYat.com | February 2022

Mardi Gras Parade Metairie

Uptown

LOYO LA AV E HO WA RD

JULIA ST. .

AV E. .

LEE PO NT CIRCLE CH AR TR AIN EX PR ES SW AY ..

VETERANS BL VD. .

MORIAL CONVENTION CENTER

N SO CK JA

T. . ES LL A S LA

MAGA ZINE ST.

INTERSTATE 10 .

R IVER

IPPI MISSISS

CA NA LS T. .

CONVENTION CENTER BLVD. .

VETERANS BL VD. .

POYD RAS S T.

ST. CH ARLE S AVE ..

. W PKWY. CLEARVIE

N. CAUSEWAY BLVD. .

SEVERN AVE. .

CALEARY AVE. .

W. ESPLANAD E AVE. .

BONNABEL BLVD. .

L AK E P ON TC HART R A IN

E. AV .

NA ISIA LOU

French Quarter

.. AVE

N. RAMPART ST. .

ST. ANN ST. .

BOURBON ST. .

.. ST INE Z GA MA

ROYAL ST. .

.. AVE

CHARTRES ST. .

JACKSON SQUARE

DUMAINE ST. .

NA ISIA LOU

Mardi Gras Manual | Where Y'at Magazine

ST. PETER ST. .

.. NAPOLEON AVE

BURGUNDY ST. .

DAUPHINE ST. .

LAFAYETTE CEMETERY NO. 1

Parade schedules and routes are subject to change. Check whereyat.com for updates.

BIENVILLE ST. .

ES RL HA C . ST

. E. AV

Maps

2022

Cork

Freret

Fri., February 18, 3:00 p.m. On the first Friday of each month, the Krewe celebrates T.G.I.C.D. (Thank Goodness It's Cork Day).

Oshun

Fri., February 18, 6:00 p.m. The krewe, founded in 1996, is named after the West African Yoruba goddess of intimacy and love.

Cleopatra

Fri., February 18, 6:00 p.m. The first all-female krewe. Founded on the Westbank, moving across the Mississippi to become the first all-female parade Uptown.

Excalibur

Fri., February 18, 6:30 p.m. Excalibur holds events year-long.

Symphony

Fri., February 18, 7:00 p.m. 21-year-old (and older) males are introduced to the pageantry of New Orleans style Mardi Gras with this welcoming krewe.

ALLA

Fri., February 18, 7:00 p.m. Non-marching dogs are welcome to enjoy from the sidelines.

Pontchartrain

Sat., February 19, 1:00 p.m. Named to honor Lake Pontchartrain.

Choctaw

Sat., February 19, 2:00 p.m. The parade found its start in 1939 and its mission is to promote charity and fellowship.

Sat., February 19, 3:00 p.m. This parade was started in 2011 by seven Loyola University graduates to bring the Carnival magic through, and to help revitalize, the Freret corridor.

MadHatters

Sat., February 19, 5:00 p.m. This krewe celebrates the magic and creativity of the imagination.

e m o s s Throw u

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Watch the parades, enjoy the open bar and the chef-inspired buffet all from Felix’s Bourbon Street Balcony.

Knights of Sparta

Sat., February 19, 5:30 p.m. All-male krewe that began in 1981.

Pygmalion

Sat., February 19, 6:15 p.m. Named after the Cypress king in Greek mythology.

Centurions

Sat., February 19, 6:30 p.m. Centurions keep their parade themes family friendly.

Femme Fatale

Sun., February 20, 11:00 a.m. Created by African American women for African American women, but it's inclusive of all women.

Carrollton

Sun., February 20, 12:00 p.m. This krewe was originally formed by a group of Oak Street businessmen in 1924.

King Arthur

Sun., February 20, 1:00 p.m. King Arthur started on the Westbank in the 1970s until it moved to its Uptown parade route in 2001.

Barkus

Sun., February 20, 2:00 p.m. Mystic Krewe of Barkus is parade of a four-legged friends of the canine variety.

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Atlas

"Throw me somethin', Mista'!"

Sun,. February 20, 4:00 p.m. Atlas believes Mardi Gras should be celebrated by all and believes that everyone is equal.

WhereYat.com | February 2022

Mardi Gras Parade Maps Wed., February 23, 6:15 p.m. The archdruid group is limited to 250 members whose identities are never revealed, many belonging to other Carnival organizations.

Nyx

Wed., February 23, 6:45 p.m., follows Druids This parade promotes embracing women of diverse backgrounds and is one of the city’s largest all-women krewes.

Babylon

Thu., February 24, 5:30 p.m. Named in honor of Sargon, who takes his title from the legendary Babylonian ruler. The current king's identity is a krewe secret.

Fri., February 25, 11:15 a.m. Pre-parade ceremonies begin at 11:15 at the starting point of St Louis and Bourbon.

Iris

Sat., February 26, 11:00 a.m. Iris members always wear white gloves and masks to maintain Mardi Gras mystery.

ST. ANN ST. .

.. LOYO LA AV E

PO NT CH AR TR AIN EX PR ES SW AY ..

Sat., February 26, 12:00 p.m. The rowdy revelers blend of bathroom humor and their Robin Hood roots makes for a good time.

RIVER WALK OUTLETS

JULIA ST. .

Algiers

. .

SS R I ISS V E IP PI R

OPELOUSAS ST. .

N SO CK JA

NEWTON ST. .

E. AV

GE NE RA L

Mardi Gras Manual | Where Y'at Magazine

MARDI GRAS BLVD. .

L B LANDRY ST. .

.. AVE

Parade schedules and routes are subject to change. Check whereyat.com for updates.

NUNEZ ST. .

NA ISIA LOU

.. ST INE Z GA MA

L B LANDRY ST. .

.. NAPOLEON AVE

LAFAYETTE CEMETERY NO. 1

Tucks parade

FERRY TERMINAL

ME YE RA VE ..

WALL BLVD. .

MONWELL FRAZIER

.. AVE

. VE SA E L AR CH

MAGA ZINE ST.

NA ISIA LOU

.. ST LE L SA LA

Tucks

IP MISSISS

ST. LOUIS ST. .

CONTI ST. .

IBERVILLE ST. .

ST. CH ARLE S AVE ..

CANAL ST. .

KIN G, JR .B LV D.

Fri., February 25, 7:00 p.m. This krewe seeks to give paradegoers an O.G. parade experience.

Sat., February 26, 10:45 a.m. New Orleans Most Talked Of Club parade in Algiers follows underneath the Crescent City Connection Bridge.

CA NA LS T. .

POYD RAS S T.

Morpheus

NOMTOC

Uptown

. ST

Fri., February 25, 6:30 p.m. The krewe's theme is made known to the public on parade day.

Bosom Buddies

UNION TRAIN STATION

LU TH ER

Krewe d'Etat

Thu., February 24, 6:45 p.m., follows Chaos Muses' shoes are some of the most coveted of all parade throws.

JACKSON SQUARE

MA RT IN

Fri., February 25, 5:30 p.m. Several New Orleans businessman decided to throw a party in 1937 as a distraction from the Great Depression, and Hermes was born.

Muses

BOURBON ST. .

CHARTRES ST. .

Hermes

Thu., February 24, 6:00 p.m. Chaos lives up to its name with skewing satire.

French Quarter ROYAL ST. .

2022

Chaos

PI R I VER

Druids

WhereYat.com | February 2022

Mardi Gras Parade Maps Kenner

Endymion

ES PL AN AD ES T. .

ST .. N. BR OA D

MA RT IN

CAESAR'S SUPERDOME

JULIA ST. .

PO NT CH AR TR AIN EX PR ES SW AY .. .

MAGA ZINE ST.

Bacchus parade

Sun., February 27, 5:15 p.m. Bacchus was founded with the goal of being the most innovative krewe of the century.

Athena

E. AV

.. AVE

VETERANS BL VD. .

BONNABEL .

N. CAUSEWAY BLVD. .

. W PKWY. CLEARVIE

NA ISIA LOU

VETERANS BL VD. .

SEVERN .

Metairie Mardi Gras Manual | Where Y'at Magazine

Sun., February 27, 11:45 a.m. This krewe selects a boy and girl from the area's Ronald McDonald House as the honorary king and queen.

Bacchus

N SO CK JA

.. AVE

.. NAPOLEON AVE

NA ISIA LOU

. ST

. E. AV S LE AR CH

Sun., February 27, 11:00 a.m. 300 riders escort the Okeanos extravagantly adorned captain and king of Okeanos.

Sun., February 27, 12:00 p.m. The krewe's original parade route was designed to parade past 14 institutions that care for people with disabilities a nd illnesses.

LU PO TH NT ER CH K AR IN . . G E TR , V J A AIN R. LEE S BL EX CIRCLE LE V R PR D. A H . ES .C SW ST AY .

KIN G, JR .B LV D.

Okeanos

Thoth

.. OULAS ST TCHOUPIT

.. AVE NA ISIA LOU

MA RT IN

Parade schedules and routes are subject to change. Check whereyat.com for updates.

LU TH ER

Sat., February 26, 6:00 p.m. Isis is named after the Egyptian goddess who is the patroness of nature and magic.

CONVENTION CENTER BLVD. .

PO YDR AS ST. . T. . DS OA R B S.

CA NA LS T. .

. 10

IN TE RS TA TE

N. GA LV EZ ST .. ST .. .

S. BR OA D

UNION TRAIN STATION

Isis

Mid-City

ST. CH ARLE S AVE ..

. AV E. CA RR OL LT ON IN TE RS TA TE

W. ESPLANAD E AVE. .

Uptown

OR LE AN SS T. .

LOYO LA AV E

CA NA LS T. .

WILLIAMS BLVD ..

LOYOLA DR. .

FAIR GROUNDS RACE TRACK

CITY PARK AV E. .

VINTAGE DR. .

CHATEAU BLVD ..

W. LOYOLA DR ..

JOY YENNI BL VD. .

Sat., February 26, 4:15 p.m. Endymion fans start saving their spots in the wee hours of the morning for this late afternoon parade.

Sun. ,February 27, 5:30 p.m. Athena was created to be open to professional women from diverse backgrounds.

Proteus

Mon., February 28, 5:15 p.m. The King of Proteus float is a giant seashell.

Orpheus

Mon., February 28, 6:00 p.m. Orpheus celebrity kings have included Fats Domino, Anne Rice, and Toby Keith.

KREWE OF BACCHUS

Mid-City

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Mardi Gras Parade Maps

Fat Tuesday 2022 >> Uptown

IN TE RS TA TE

OR LE AN SS T. .

Banners line St. Charles Ave. celebrating 150 Years of Rex

Zulu parade CA NA LS T. .

Zulu

Tue., March 1, 8:00 a.m. The most famous Krewe of Zulu king was Louis Armstrong, who reigned in 1949.

Rex

Tue., March 1, 10:00 a.m. Rex, founded in 1872, is 150 years old this year and set the purple, green, and gold standard for Mardi Gras.

PO YDR AS ST. CAESAR'S .

Mardi Gras Manual | Where Y'at Magazine

MAGA ZINE ST.

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Parade schedules and routes are subject to change. Check whereyat.com for updates.

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Tue., March 1, 11:00 a.m., follows Elks-Orleans In Orleans Parish, the krewe signals the official "beginning of the end" of Carnival.

Jefferson

Tue., March 1, 11:30 a.m. In Jefferson Parish, this parade is the "beginning of the end" of Carnival.

Metairie

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Tue., March 1, 11:00 a.m. Tue., March 1, 10:30 a.m. Founded in 1935, it is the oldest established The krewe is sponsored by the Benevolent Protective Order of the Elks, which is deditruck float krewe. cated to charitable deeds.

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Elks Jefferson

Elks-Orleans

UNION TRAIN STATION

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FROM LEFT: MONWELL FRAZIER; WHERE Y'AT STAFF; ROBERT WITKOWSKI

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SUPERDOME

Tue., March 1, 10:00 a.m. Past floats include one based on George Rodrigue's Blue Dog.

N. CAUSEWAY BLVD. .

Wearing the colors

Argus

aNd

KiNg CaKe! THE PERFECT PAIRING THIS CARNIVAL SEASON EsPrEsSo MaRtInI 1pt Kahlua 1pt Absolut Vodka 1pt Espresso

STICK TO THE SCRIPT. DRINK RESPONSIBLY.

WhereYat.com | February 2022

Marching Group Parade Schedule

610 Stompers

Parade schedules and routes are subject to change. Check whereyat.com for updates.

Muff-a-lottas

aecabinkrewe.com and Facebook Cleopatra Friday, February 18 King Arthur Sunday, February 20 Druids Wednesday, February 23 Babylon Thursday, February 24 Iris Saturday, February 26

themuffalottas.com and Facebook Poseidon Saturday, February 12 Cleopatra Friday, February 18 Pontchartrain Saturday, February 19 Babylon Thursday, February 24 Tucks Saturday, February 26

Bearded Oysters

Mystic Vixens

beardedoysters.org and Facebook Mad Hatters Saturday, February 19 Muses Thursday, February 24

Facebook Mad Hatters Spanish Town Covington Mardi Paws

Beyjorettes beyjorettes.com and Facebook Nefertiti Sunday, January 30 Excalibur Friday, February 18 Sparta Saturday, February 19 Zulu Tuesday, March 1

Bosom Buddies Bosom Buddies

Friday, Februrary 25

Chairy Chicks Facebook Mardi Paws

Sunday, March 6

Facebook Oshun Excalibur Choctaw Pygmalion Carrollton Druids Iris Okeanos Zulu

Friday, February 18 Friday, February 18 Saturday, February 19 Saturday, February 19 Sunday, February 20 Wednesday, February 23 Saturday, February 26 Sunday, February 27 Tuesday, March 1

Facebook Freret Druids Tucks

Facebook Freret

discoamigos.com and Facebook Poseidon Saturday, Februrary 12 Cleopatra Friday, February 18 King Arthur Sunday, February 20 Druids Wedneday, February 23 Morpheus Friday, February 25

Krewe de Mayahuel Facebook Delusion Red Beans

Saturday, February 19

Facebook Chewbacchus Selene

Saturday, February 5 Friday, February 25

NOLA Showgirls

Krewe des Fleurs krewedosfleurs.org and Facebook Cleopatra Friday, February 18 Iris Saturday, February 26 Mid-City Sunday, February 27

Facebook Poseidon Cleopatra Sparta Morpheus

Friday, February 18 Friday, February 25

Saturday, February 12 Friday, February 18 Saturday, February 19 Friday, February 25

Mardi Gras Manual | Where Y'at Magazine

Friday, February 18 Friday, Feburary 25

Skeleton Krewe Tuesday, March 1

Skinz N Bonez Facebook Muses Mardi Gras Day

Thursday, February 24 Tuesday, March 1

Star-Steppin’ Cosmonaughties Saturday, February 19

St. Car Strutters st.carstrutters.com and Facebook Mad Hatters Saturday, February 19 Barkus Sunday, February 20 Tucks Saturday, February 26

Tidal Wave Dance Team Facebook Excalibur Centurion Babylon

Friday, February 18 Saturday, February 19 Thursday, February 24

Saturday, February 12

610 Stompers Facebook Poseidon Carrollton Hermes Thoth Orpheus

Mande Milkshakers

Facebook Cleopatra Morpheus

Facebook Delusion

Saturday, February 12 Friday, February 18 Wednesday, February 23 Tuesday, March 1

mandemilkshakers.com and Facebook Posiedon Saturday, February 12 Eve Friday, February 18 Olympia Saturday, February 19 Carrollton Sunday, February 20 Selene Friday, February 25 Tucks Saturday, February 26 Hera Monday, February 28 Covington Tuesday, March 1 Krewe Du Pooch Saturday, March 5

Saturday, February 19 Sunday, February 20 Friday, February 25

Trashformers

Mahogany Blue Baby Dolls Facebook Delusion Oshun Druids Uptown

Friday, February 18 Sunday, February 20 Thursday, February 24 Saturday, February 26

Sirens of New Orleans

Facebook Pygmalion

Oui Dats Saturday, February 12 Monday, February 28

Facebook Choctaw King Arthur Morpheus

Facebook Uptown

NOLA Night Lights

Facebook Alla Morpheus

Facebook Cleopatra King Arthur Muses Iris

Roux La La

Bombshells

NOLA Chorus Girls

Disco Amigos

pussyfooters.org and Facebook Carrollton Sunday, February 16 Cleopatra Friday, February 18 Muses Thursday, February 24 Thoth Sunday, February 27

Rolling Elvi Saturday, February 19 Friday, February 25 Tuesday, March 1 Sunday, March 6

Crescent City Fae Saturday, February 19 Wednesday, February 23 Saturday, February 26

Pussyfooters

Saturday, February 12 Sunday, February 20 Friday, February 25 Sunday, February 27 Monday, February 28

689 Swampers

Mande Milkshakers

Facebook ALLA Choctaw Morpheus Rosethorne

Friday, February 18 Saturday, February 19 Friday, February 25 Saturday, February 26

FROM TOP: COURTESY BIG NIGHT NEW ORLEANS; COURTESY MANDE MILKSHAKERS

Amelia EarHawts & Cabin Krewe

school Root for your d! marching ban

Watch Middle and High School Bands COMPETE with their BEAT along Veterans Boulevard, Metairie!

Metairie Carnival 2022 Battle for bragging rights and prize money! awarding winners at every metairie parade: Watch Middle and High School Bands COMPETE with their BEAT along Veterans Boulevard, Metairie!

1st Metairie Place 2nd Place 3rd Place Carnival 2022

$3,000 $2,000 $1,000 Battle for bragging rights and prize money!

awa r d i n g w i n n e r s at e v e ry m e ta i r i e pa r a d e :

1st Place

2nd Place

3rd Place

For more information contact the

$2,000 $1,000 $3,000 Jefferson Convention & Visitors Bureau, Inc. F o r m o r e i n f o r m at i o n co n tac t t h e 504-731-7083 | www.visitjeffersonparish.com J e f f e rso n Co n v e n t i o n & V i s i to rs B u r e au, I n c .

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WhereYat.com | February 2022

Northshore Parade Schedule Parade schedules and routes are subject to change. Check whereyat.com for updates.

Krewe of Bilge (Slidell) Saturday, February 12 | 12:00 p.m. Krewe of Poseidon (Slidell) Saturday, February 12 | 6:00 p.m. Krewe of Pearl River Lions Club (Pearl River) Sunday, February 13 | 1:00 p.m. Krewe of Eve (Mandeville) Friday, February 18 | 7:00 a.m. Krewe de Paws of Olde Towne (Slidell) Saturday, February 19 | 10:00 a.m. Krewe of Push Mow (Abita Springs) Saturday, February 19 | 12:00 p.m. Krewe of Tchefuncte (Madisonville) Saturday, February 19 | 1:00 p.m. Krewe of Olympia (Covington) Saturday, February 19 | 6:00 p.m. Krewe of Titans (Slidell) Saturday, Feabruary 19 | 6:30 p.m. Krewe of Dionysus (Slidell) Sunday, February 20 | 1:00 p.m. Krewe of Selene (Slidell) Friday, February 25 | 6:30 p.m. Covington Lions Club (Covington) Tuesday, March 1 | 10:00 a.m. Krewe of Covington (Covington) Tuesday, March 1 | Follows Lions Krewe of Chahta (Lacombe) Tuesday, March 1 | 1 p.m.

Krewe of Mardi Paws (Covington) Sunday, March 6 | 2 p.m. 24

Mardi Gras Manual | Where Y'at Magazine

ADOBE STOCK

Krewe Du Pooch (Covington) Saturday, March 5 | 12 p.m.

Some superheroes wear capes…

SOME WEAR BANDAIDS. Our kids deserve to be protected, too. THE COVID-19 VACCINE IS SAFE FOR CHILDREN. The CDC has recommended that all children ages 5 and up get vaccinated against COVID-19.

Additionally, the CDC recommends that moderately or severely immunocompromised children ages 5-11 receive an additional primary (third dose) of vaccine 28 days after their second shot. The vaccines protect children as young as 5 years old from severe COVID-19 outcomes like hospitalization and death, and the vaccine protects children from current circulating variants. When your child gets vaccinated against COVID-19, they have a better chance at staying in school and participating in the activities they enjoy.

“This vaccine for children has passed rigorous clinical trials and is safe – just like the other common vaccines we recommend our children receive.” DR. WANDA THOMAS PROFESSOR OF PEDIATRICS, LSU Health Shreveport

“These vaccines are as safe and as effective as any vaccines we’ve ever had for any disease.”

GET THE FACTS: visit ldh.la.gov/kidsvax or call the Vaccine Hotline at 1-855-453-0774.

DR. MARK KLINE PHYSICIAN-IN-CHIEF AND PEDIATRICIAN, Children’s Hospital New Orleans WhereYat.com | February 2022

7:00 P.M.

Mardi Gras Parade Calendar February

1 TUE 12 WED 3 THU 4 FRI 5 SAT 6 SUN 7 MON 8 TUE 9 WED 10 THU 11 FRI 12 SAT 13 SUN 14 MON 15 TUE 16 WED 17 THU 18 FRI 19 SAT 20 SUN 21 MON 22 TUE 23 WED 24 THU 25 FRI 26 SAT 27 SUN 28 MON

FRI. FEBRUARY 11 KREWE BOHÈME. . . . . . . . . . . 7:00 P.M.

SAT. FEBRUARY 12 KREWE OF BILGE . . . . . . . . . 12:00 P.M. KREWE OF NEFERTITI . . . . . . 1:00 P.M. KREWE OF POSEIDON. . . . . . . 6:00 P.M. KREWE DU VIEUX . . . . . . . . . . 6:30 P.M. KREWEDELUSION . . . . . . . . . FOLLOWS

SUN. FEBRUARY 13 KREWE OF LITTLE RASCALS. 12:00 P.M. 'TIT REX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4:30 P.M. PEARL RIVER LIONS CLUB.

1:00 P.M.

FRI. FEBRUARY 18 CORK. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3:00 P.M. OSHUN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6:00 P.M. CLEOPATRA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6:00 P.M. EXCALIBER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6:30 P.M. SYMPHONY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . FOLLOWS ALLA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7:00 P.M. EVE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7:00 P.M.

SAT. FEBRUARY 19 PAWS OF OLDE TOWNE . . . . 10:00 A.M. PUSH MOW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12:00 P.M. NEMESIS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1:00 P.M. TCHEFUNCTE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1:00 P.M. PONTCHARTRAIN . . . . . . . . . . 1:00 P.M. CHOCTAW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . FOLLOWS FRERET . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . FOLLOWS MADHATTERS. . . . . . . . . . . . . 5:00 P.M. KNIGHTS OF SPARTA . . . . . . . 5:30 P.M. PYGMALION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . FOLLOWS OLYMPIA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6:00 P.M. TITANS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6:30 P.M. CENTURIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6:30 P.M.

SUN. FEBRUARY 20 FEMME FATALE . . . . . . . . . . 11:00 A.M. CARROLLTON . . . . . . . . . . . . 12:00 P.M. KING ARTHUR . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1:00 P.M. DIONYSUS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1:00 P.M. BARKUS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2:00 P.M. ATLAS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4:00 P.M.

Parade schedules and routes are subject to change. Please check whereyat.com for updates.

Mardi Gras Manual | Where Y'at Magazine

March

1. FAT TUESDAY

2022

WED. FEBRUARY 23

DRUIDS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6:15 P.M. NYX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7:00 P.M.

THU. FEBRUARY 24 BABYLON. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5:30 P.M. CHAOS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6:15 P.M. MUSES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6:30 P.M.

FRI. FEBRUARY 25 BOSOM BUDDIES . . . . . . . . . 11:30 A.M. HERMES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5:30 P.M. D'ETAT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6:30 P.M. SELENE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6:30 P.M. MORPHEUS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7:00 P.M.

SAT FEBRUARY 26 BUSH. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 A.M. NOMTOC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10:45 A.M. IRIS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11:00 A.M. TUCKS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12:00 P.M. ENDYMION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4:15 P.M. ISIS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6:00 P.M.

SUN. FEBRUARY 27 OKEANOS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11:00 A.M. MID-CITY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11:45 A.M. THOTH. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12:00 P.M. BACCHUS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5:15 P.M.

MON. FEBRUARY 28 PROTEUS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5:15 P.M. ORPHEUS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6:00 P.M.

FAT TUESDAY TUE. MARCH 1

ZULU . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8:00 A.M. REX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10:00 A.M. ELKS ORLEANS . . . . . . . . . . . FOLLOWS CRESCENT CITY . . . . . . . . . . FOLLOWS ARGUS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10:00 A.M. ELKS JEFFERSON . . . . . . . . . FOLLOWS KREWE OF JEFFERSON . . . . . FOLLOWS COVINGTON LIONS. . . . . . . 10:00 A.M. COVINGTON . . . . . . . . . . . . . FOLLOWS CHAHTA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1:00 P.M. FOLSOM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2:00 P.M.

BEADS: COURTESY ORIENTAL TRADING

SAT. FEBRUARY 5 KREWE OF CHEWBACCHUS.

WhereYat.com | February 2022

BLACK & BEAUTIFUL

NOMTOC began as the The Jugs Social Club

Zulu may be the best-known of the Black krewes. By Kimmie Tubre

If you aren’t local to New Orleans or have never been, you may assume that Mardi Gras is a time for wild decadence. A time for people to let loose as the streets are filled with giant floats and patrons on the hunt for beads. Mardi Gras, also known as Carnival, is much more than that. Its vast history is rooted in royalty, wealth, and a bit of glamor. But when it comes to that history, there is one key factor to note: Black people were not included in most of the festivities, which left them to create their own Mardi Gras enjoyment. THE START OF SOMETHING GRAND This was instantly noticed by a young man named Wiley Knight when he arrived in New Orleans in 1894. Wiley, originally from Tennessee, was working as a pullman porter in Chicago when he was offered a position on a Louisiana railroad in New Orleans. At the time, New Orleans had a rather notable population of middle-class Blacks that had acquired wealth and status. Yet, to Wiley’s surprise, there were no Carnival balls created for the Blacks that represented their highsociety lifestyle. With this in mind, Wiley opened a dancing school in Uptown New Orleans just a few blocks from his residence. His career as a pullman porter was one that was on the rise, becoming a desired job to have in the Black community. This job allowed Wiley and his friends to advance in society and afforded them to attain many things. Early into the next year, 1895, their first ball was held at the Globe Hall, a prominent and historic ballroom. The ball was such a success that Wiley and his crew of porter friends and maids decided to name their group the “Illinois Club.” The club was eventually renamed the “Original Illinois Club,” representing the state where most of the group’s members were from. That ball became the first official Black debutante ball. The Original Illinois Club initiated a lineage of Black excellence that would go on to be replicated not only in New Orleans but across the country. During the following decades, while mostly prominent in the South, these Black debutante balls were being held from Harlem, New York to Los Angeles, California. A TASTE OF ROYALTY Coming out as a debutante is a long-standing tradition that dates back to Queen Charlotte’s ball in Britain, where King George III would honor her birthday. British balls were popular affairs amongst high-society and rapidly spread to America, especially the Southern states. During the 18th and 19th centuries, balls were a place where young women from wealthy families would

Mardi Gras Manual | Where Y'at Magazine

The Original Illinois Club held their first ball at Globe Hall in 1895. be introduced to the elites of the world in pursuit of finding a husband. These women would spend their lives learning proper etiquette and manners. They also would learn how to curtsey and waltz. As time progressed, the events became less about obtaining a partner and more of a rite of passage that not only introduced them to the world but also highlighted their achievements and future endeavors. When the Black debutante balls began, many of the older traditions had already become archaic, but some traditions remained. Today, debutantes are still respected women in society, therefore they should have great manners, and etiquette is important. They typically debut in white gowns and, like the debutantes of the past, they are expected to waltz and perfect their curtseys. In New Orleans, it is common to see debutantes toting beautiful and elaborate headpieces, which is more a representation of Carnival than debuting. A RICH HISTORY OF KREWES AND CLUBS After the first successful Black debutante ball and the success of the Original Illinois Club, several other Black krewes and clubs began to materialize. One of the most recognizable krewes came about after a group of laborers came together and began marching during Mardi Gras. Originally known as “The Tramps,” the group later changed their name to the Zulus in 1909, and the rest is history. In 1951, a group called The Jug Social Club came together and, by the late 1960s, they became known as NOMTOC (New Orleans Most Talked Of Club). Both Zulu and NOMTOC hold elaborate debutante Carnival balls but are just as famous for parading. Zulu opened the door for the working-class Black community, allowing them to not only experience a black-tie affair but also to experience being a debutante. While Zulu is well known for its contribution to Mardi Gras, there were other clubs that did not parade and remained unseen. Clubs like The Young Men of Illinois Club (birthed from the Original Illinois Club) continued to represent the upper crust of New Orleans Black society in private. Another notable club is The Bunch Club, which is a fraternity-like group of the city's wealthiest people of color that hosts a ball every year on the Friday before Mardi Gras. Like the Original Men of Illinois, these Carnival balls are by invite only and their members are generally the doctors, business men, lawyers, or skilled professionals of the city. Whether with debutantes or without, Carnival balls have become a standard part of the Black culture of Mardi Gras in New Orleans. From the Baby Doll Dancers and Mardi Gras Indians to the Zulu parade and the high-society balls, Black people have certainly created their own Mardi Gras experience.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: YOUNG MEN OF ILLIONOIS FACEBOOK; JUGS SOCIAL CLUB, INC./KREWE OF NOMTOC; WIKIMEDIA COMMONS / LIBRARY OF CONGRESS; WHERE Y'AT STAFF

New Orleans Black Debutante and Carnival Ball Culture

THE CULTURAL ECONOMY

New Orleans & Company is pleased to welcome citizens and visitors to the 2022 Mardi Gras in New Orleans. We salute all carnival organizations and marching clubs for their efforts to ensure that one of New Orleans’ iconic celebrations continues to supply such joy and inspiration to the world. We also thank the City of New Orleans and our first responders who work tirelessly to ensure a safe Mardi Gras for all participants.

NewOrleans.com

At New Orleans & Company we are committed to helping build New Orleans as a diverse and vibrant community that celebrates the richness of our culture, and we remain laser-focused as a job creator and a career builder, helping to WhereYat.com | February 2022 29 strengthen the cultural economy.

Sicilian • Creole Italian

OWNER/CHEF: FRANK CATALANOTTO OPEN FOR DINNER TUES - SAT: 5:30PM - 9PM 4445 W. METAIRIE AVE | 504-533-9998

Mardi Gras Crafts Projects

SABRINA STONE

N E A R C L E A R V I E W P K W Y • VA L E T AVA I L A B L E

HOMEMADE CARNIVAL

Mardi Gras Manual | Where Y'at Magazine

By Sabrina Stone

Whether you’re out of state this year for Mardi Gras, at home with the family, or having a low-key get together, Carnival-themed decorations can make your house as joyful as shimmery wintery lights or spooky Halloween lawn displays. Some friends of mine never take their Christmas trees down–they just transition them into Mardi Gras Trees. Here, you’ll find tips on how to dress those trees, how to decorate in general for our holiday season, and how to build a shoebox float. I spent a lot of time agonizing over what the theme of my float should be before I started, and then I realized there’s no wrong theme. Shoebox floats are all about getting glue on your fingertips, glitter in your hair, dumping Mardi Gras loot from previous years all over the floor, making a massive, colorful mess, and having fun. A shoebox float theme can be based on whatever your heart desires. Do you like dinosaurs? Make it a prehistoric float. Do you like football? Make it a Saints float. Do you like unicorns? Make it a magical float. Have you seen a life-sized float that inspired you? Replicate it! The first step is to gather supplies (this is also an “anything goes” sort of situation). ● Shoebox (the only mandatory supply) ● Wrapping Paper ● Construction Paper ● Stickers ● Mardi Gras Throws ● Ribbons ● Tinsel ● Dolls ● Trinkets ● Miniature ANYTHING ● Keychains ● Ornaments ● Etc. Once you’re surrounded by things you’ve collected, things you love, colorful and ridiculous memories, a theme might just appear. For me, it was obvious: music and animals. I had enough dragons to guard a cardboard castle. They could breathe yellow, orange, and red construction paper fire, perch along the box, or “fly” around on wires. I had enough embroidered rainbow elephants and horses and porcelain bunnies to build a carousel with aluminum foil mirrors and delicate design work. I even considered pulling down a circular hat box from up in a closet somewhere to use as the base so it

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WhereYat.com | February 2022

colorful 3D flowers, or hire a local artist to turn your entire house into a themed float. A few easy ideas are making a Mardi Gras wreath, a krewe cup dispenser, or custom doubloons to hand out. Mardi Gras wreaths can be done like Christmas ones with a pine tree base, or you can string literally anything that brings you joy into a circular shape. Cup dispensers are exactly what they sound like. Every krewe, even the Krewe of House Floats, has customized cups or logos that you can have printed onto your own cups. Plastic cups are so popular because they make for a great, lightweight throw to toss and can be reused over and over again (our cabinets are stuffed with them; they make us smile more than fancy china ever could). Plain wooden doubloons are available for ordering and you can hand paint them, use markers, or even stickers. No matter what version of Carnival we celebrate in 2022, let’s make it fun.

SABRINA STONE

would look like the animals were going around and around on painted chopstick poles. I decided to go with a music theme. So I gathered CDs, a favorite record, saxophone and guitar tree ornaments, sheet music ribbons, and a ton of purple, green, and gold sparkly stuff. Dolls can make great partygoers, dancers, and queens for the float. Since there were none of those on hand, I had to get creative and use my wooden artist model figurine. What’s a music-themed float without a musician? First, I tipped the bottom of the shoebox upside down for the float body stage, then I tucked the top of the shoebox behind it at a 90-degree angle to create the back (a pretty standard shoebox frame design). I used a favorite record, printed in psychedelic reds, blues, and purples, from the local New Orleans Record Press, as the stage drop. In front of that, I positioned CDs and mini-CDs in layers, like speakers. Then, I set my musician up with his saxophone. I didn’t dress him because everything around the doll was about to be wildly colorful and also, as my best friend pointed out, “People love getting naked at Mardi Gras.” But there’s no limit to the type of paint, paper, or fabric costumes you can dress your tiny float people in. Once my guy was glued down and the backdrop was secured, he got butterfly wings, a whole host of dragonfly and butterfly friends, and guitars at his feet. I glued sheet music ribbons along the edges of the box, pulled the green, gold, and purple tinsel out of a rainbow pack, attached a pink metallic trumpet throw to the front, and trailed Mardi Gras beads in ribbons all around. If I decide to take my float for a neighborhood tour or enroll in ‘tit Rex, I’ll attach wheels, but, for now, this whole magical diorama only occupies an 8x13 inch space on my countertop and is exploding with Carnival spirit and joy. Mardi Gras trees are a much simpler but equally fun decoration project. As I mentioned earlier, some friends of mine never take their Christmas trees down because they repurpose them as soon as we get to the New Year. Much like the shoebox float, there’s no wrong way to decorate a Mardi Gras tree. You can leave your lights up from the earlier holidays. Necklaces, ribbons, and big fluffy boas can be hung like garlands around it. Almost any throw can be turned into an ornament. I like to use green florist wire to attach throws and masks that don’t have big enough loops to go over branches by themselves, as it camouflages well, but you can also use pipe cleaners, paper clips, or colorful ribbons tied in bows, which might even add to the jolliness. Mardi Gras trees can be wonderfully, sloppily thrown together, as long as they’re bright and happy-making. The most classic outdoor decoration is hanging Mardi Gras beads over a wrought iron fence with the krewe medallions weighing them down, but, these days, there’s no cap on how elaborate you can get. You can airlift in life-sized dinosaurs, cover your facade in

Mardi Gras Manual | Where Y'at Magazine

MARDI GRAS

Tips to Help You Plan Ahead

Don’t get parade-delayed

Routes will be detoured starting 2 hours before parades and will resume after clean-up. Review detours ahead of time.

Grab the RTA Mardi Gras Guide on buses, streetcars, or norta.com.

Get your Jazzy Pass early

on the GoMobile app or at select Walgreens stores.

norta.com/mardigras

504-248-3900

WhereYat.com | February 2022

HYPOCHONDRIAC MARDI GRAS

It’s hard to laissez les bons temps rouler when the bons temps are sandwiched between a pandémie and an ouragan. Obviously you want to leave your house, but it’s different now. That’s why we’ve compiled this list of ways to enjoy a hypochondriac Mardi Gras.

What is that? You might ask, is it for me? Well, some quick questions: Do you feel like your flight is always going to crash? When your elbow hurts, is it probably cancer? If someone doesn’t text you they got home safe, do you assume they’re dead? Do you love to party? If you answered yes to zero or more, this list is for you. We can have it all!

DISCLAIMER: This article includes depictions of a mature nature that may not be suitable for all ages.

By Julie Mitchell

6. Bring the hand sanitizer

1. Alcohol is an antiseptic

It’s small. Throw it in there. I guarantee there will be some situation where you’re happy you have it, even if it’s just to drink it at the end of the night.

It’s good for you. They used it in wars. When you take fireball shots now, it’s actually honoring the troops. And the more alcohol you drink, the stronger your immune system is. That’s how it works.

2. You do not need to pet all the dogs This is going to be a hard one for some of you. I’m not saying don’t pet any of the dogs, and maybe you can pet all of them, but if there’s a dog eating a piece of Popeyes chicken on the ground with a dirty bandana that says “Storm Pooper,” maybe you can just smile from a distance. Dogs are like pieces of art in a museum. We can think, “Does loving this as much as I do much mean I am depressed?” and take pictures but not touch. Dogs are art that can shit themselves, and sometimes it’s best to keep a healthy distance.

An R-rated Guide

7. Take a minute to journal This one might not seem like it fits with the others, but those intrusive thoughts and anxiety around illness? There’s no cure for that except your own brain, baby. Sit with your thoughts for a while and process them. What are you scared of? What would it feel like if that happened? Where would you be? What happens after we die? Have you accepted your own death? That’s important for Mardi Gras!

8. Cough drops Don’t overthink it—just have one.

3. Make gloves a part of your costume

4.. Eating food in a stranger’s house is still fine, but use utensils Do I even need to say this one? I don’t mean for gumbo and obvious stuff, but if there’s some ears of corn (I have seen it) or brownies, and you think, “I can just touch the one I want,” stop right there. No, you can’t. Use a spoon or a napkin or some kind of oversized fork. You can judge for yourself if an open house is fine but on this day? Do not trust your own motor skills—even if you’re sober. There’s glee in the air. We all get overeager. Now you’ve touched all the walnuts or peanut M&M’s. Oysters in a shell? I don’t care. Use a tool. Our ancestors did not emerge from the primordial ooze and learn how to walk upright so you could pick up 18 Cheez-Its barehanded.

5. Forget that WebMD exists This one isn’t Mardi Gras specific, although it will help, but this is just general advice. Are you on mushrooms, and you keep seeing blue dots and all the trash cans seem sad? Don’t type anything into WebMD. I don’t care if you’re bleeding. You’re better off going up to a couple in the middle of a breakup than listening to what that godforsaken website has to say. It always is the same. They’re going to ask if you’re sometimes tired and when you answer yes, that will mean it might be cancer. Avoid the trouble and just get in a fistfight—feel alive for once.

Mardi Gras Manual | Where Y'at Magazine

9. Drugs are friends of friends only this year How fun was it to do key bumps in an alley with a couple you just met who have matching bandanas and own a restaurant and then have sex with them? So fun. But between the panini and fentanyl, you can no longer take drugs from just anyone. “But this is how the threesome market thrives,” you yell at me. I know, but people are just going to have to up their flirting game this year if they want to have sex with strangers. It’ll do us all some good if we have to string three sentences together before being entered, and you shouldn’t accept a bag of powder from someone you or your friends don’t know at least three things about. Are they a libertarian? Find out. And then maybe you wouldn’t want to do drugs with them anyway. See how I’m helping?

10. You can still pee in the street No one can take that away from you.

That’s All!

Hope you have fun!

ICONS: STAFF ILLUSTRATIONS

Be a crab, be a doctor with borders, be anarchist Mickey Mouse (actually, do want to see that one). Make a costume where you can keep the ole mitts wrapped up like a delicatessen ham. That way when you’re fighting a child for a light up football on the neutral ground (just kidding, I know we only fight kids for novelty snacks), you don’t have to worry that you’re by proxy touching literal poop. Gloves are a little jacket for your hands and, at the end of the day, or night depending on how hard you go, you can just take them off and throw away the germs and memories of all that you did for the past 10 hours.

K S MA

, UP

GETTING TRASHED AT MARDI GRAS Garbage Cleanup During Carnival By Kathy Bradshaw The celebrations also leave behind a combined total of approximately 1,250 tons (2.5 million pounds) of garbage in the streets—comprised of discarded throws and parade-viewing trash, such as empty food and drink containers. To put that in language that partiers can relate to, the trash produced in a single Mardi Gras season in New Orleans has the equivalent weight of about 15,580 full beer kegs. New Orleans imports more than 25 million pounds of plastic beads every Mardi Gras (the approximate weight of the Eiffel Tower), and one super krewe estimates that its riders toss 15 million throws during its parade alone. With that quantity of assorted novelties being flung around, not all of them can be lucky enough to find their forever home in some parade-goer’s display case or storage box in the attic, so many end up rejected in

the streets. If one man’s trash really is another man’s treasure, New Orleans streets are an absolute treasure chest full of riches imported from China. Throughout Carnival season, main thoroughfares such as St. Charles Avenue and Canal Street become a regular stew of discarded stuffed animals, used drink cups, enough beads to swim in, and a hodgepodge of all things plastic, plush, light-up, hanging, flashing, flying, sippable, wearable, and cuddly. And it’s up to the New Orleans Department of Sanitation, with the help of other local organizations, to remove all this debris and clean our streets right down to the potholes underneath. Here’s a little trash talk to explain how it all works. The trash-removal process is pricey and complicated, involving many moving parts that must work together in harmony, like an orchestra performing

ROBERT WITKOWSKI

Mardi Gras is a festive time for many, with all those parades and parties, balls and beads. But when all the fun is over, revelers have more than just fond memories, glittery souvenir shoes, and several pounds of king cake weight left to show for it.

Mardi Gras Manual | Where Y'at Magazine

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an intricate symphony of garbage elimination. The entire trashy concerto can cost taxpayers and the city well over a million dollars per year. According to City Hall, around 500 people work daily during Mardi Gras to clean up the trash in the streets, though after some especially busy parades, the number or workers has sometimes been nearly double that. These hordes of dedicated trash collectors are a combo of year-round city workers, seasonal labor, and contracted employees who work around the clock during Carnival to rid the city of its mass quantities of Mardi Gras scraps. In fact, the Department of Sanitation starts recruiting staff and volunteers a year in advance for the next upcoming season to make sure that they have enough people for the job. But it’s not just human forces that are needed—the process

ALL PHOTOS COURTESY MARYOR'S OFFICE / DEPT. OF SANITATION

TRASH FUN FACT: Arcade Fire recorded the music video for the song “Electric Blue” amidst the Mardi Gras clean-up crews one year

Mardi Gras Manual | Where Y'at Magazine

removed a sum total of 93,000 pounds of beads and 7.2 million pounds of debris from city storm drains within just five blocks along St. Charles Avenue. That’s the weight of around 365 parade floats. Despite the fact that the Department of Sanitation puts out over a thousand 55-gallon trash barrels on parade routes (enough to hold more than 192,000 large daiquiris), many people still choose to drop, dump, or abandon tons of Mardi Gras cast-offs of various sorts, from spurned throws to personal property that’s worn out its usefulness. “After the last parade on Mardi Gras Day, folks tend to say a final goodbye to their Mardi Gras investments and leave them on the parade route,” Torri said. “The number of perfectly good ladders, tents, coolers, tables, and leftover food we remove is astonishing.” But while it might seem innocent enough to throw your empty go-cup on the ground or toss your no-longer-needed foldable chair, consider how long it takes your trash to degrade in a landfill: cigarette butts linger for one to five years, aluminum cans can last 500 years, glass bottles last for 1,000 years, and

plastic bottles stick around indefinitely. Therefore, due to the colossal volume of garbage in the streets, the cost of removing it, and its environmental impact, the city of New Orleans strongly encourages parade-goers to recycle their throws and parade paraphernalia. Programs such as Arc of Greater New Orleans (ArcGNO), as well as the Department of Sanitation, recycle tens of thousands of pounds of beads annually. Grounds Krewe is a nonprofit organization that promotes waste reduction through both waste prevention and recycling. Their initiatives include passing out recycling bags to parade-goers along the routes and collecting recyclables from the crowds mid-parade. They also work to create eco-friendly and sustainable throws. But every single parade-goer can help reduce the trash that swallows New Orleans every Mardi Gras season. Each empty beer you recycle, every blinky toy you take home rather than chucking it on the ground, and every box of beads you donate can help make a difference. If anyone tries to tell you otherwise, well, that’s just garbage.

also involves an entire fleet of equipment and machinery. At any given time, there could be as many as eight to 10 garbage trucks, 16 dump trucks, six front-end loaders, four street flushers, and between six and 10 pressure-washers assigned to a single parade. Add to that various street sweepers, pushers, blowers, skid steers, and roll-off trucks. The Department of Sanitation reported one year that they used over 100 different pieces of equipment to purge the streets of their many Carnival leftovers. The Department of Sanitation uses a “divide and conquer” approach to trash removal—they split up their workforce into multiple teams that position themselves at either the beginning, middle, or end of the parade route and attack the debris as soon as the parade has passed by that particular area. With multiple groups working on separate locations simultaneously, they’re able to finish the daunting task much more quickly. “The Department of Sanitation aims to complete the cleaning of each parade route within three hours of the end of the parade,” said Matt Torri, the director of the New Orleans Department of Sanitation. “We take tremendous pride in promptly cleaning up the route after each parade. It’s incredible to see the transformation of the route pre-, during, and post-parade.” Before the city became so efficient in its garbage-abolishment techniques, however, it would take between 12 and 24 hours to tidy up the streets after the larger parades, and cleaning sometimes continued for days. The River Birch Landfill in Avondale is where Mardi Gras goes to die. Over a thousand tons of parade remnants are dumped into the ground there— the weight of 200 elephants’ worth of garbage. Yet the landfill is a preferable alternative to allowing the remains of Carnivals past to clog up New Orleans’ gutters and drains. One year, they

WhereYat.com | February 2022

MARDI GRAS TIPS By Emily Hingle

Mardi Gras is a glorious time for New Orleans: merriment, laughter, and spectacle abound all around. It can be dazzling and intoxicating.

Keep your cell phone charged, and bring your phone charger (wall outlet and cord) with you. You may also want to carry a fully-charged backup battery. If you find yourself in an unfamiliar part of town or in a bad situation, you don’t want to be caught without the ability to call for help. Some phones also have an SOS system that can send text messages and your location to certain contacts in your phone. Beware of pickpockets. Keep your phone, charger, keys, cash, cards, etc. in a small secure bag like a theft-proof fanny pack or a traveler’s wallet that goes under your shirt. If you are carrying a purse, use one with a zipper and keep it zipped up and secured under your arm. Don’t hang the purse on the back of your chair at restaurants and bars where it can be accessed by others. Large purses may make you more of a target, so use a smaller bag and only carry essential items. Keep your wallet in your front pocket where it’s more difficult for a thief to grab without you noticing. Do not wander down empty streets late at night or in the early morning hours. This is the time when you are more likely to be targeted for a crime. Stay in populated, well-lit areas, and travel in groups of people if you do walk around town late at night. Do not get so intoxicated that you become incapacitated. New Orleans is well known for its abundance of alcohol and other substances. It’s very easy to become so drunk that you don’t understand what’s going on around you. Only imbibe when you’re with your group. Keep a hotel room key or something with the address of where you’re staying on you at all times. If you get so intoxicated that you can’t find your way back, someone may help you find where you’re staying using those things. Eat large meals with carbs and fiber before drinking. This will help to slow the absorption of alcohol and keep you more coherent. Beware of scammers. Don’t walk away from the street or away from your group to go with someone you don’t know. You may encounter scammers who use the old “I’ll bet I know where you got them shoes” trick or something similar. You’ll answer, “Where?” and the scammer will say, “On your feet.” After you laugh about it, the scammer may demand money from you because he “bet” you.

Mardi Gras Manual | Where Y'at Magazine

Use a map service or paper map to navigate. Plenty of people are happy to point you in the right direction if you ask politely (but please don’t ask where the French Quarter is when you are in the French Quarter). Take time to study a map and figure out the lay of the city: where your hotel is, where Bourbon Street is, where the restaurants you want to visit are, and where the parades are. Wandering around and looking confused can make you an easy target for criminals. Carry a non-lethal personal protection device like pepper spray. If you feel that you are in a threatening situation, pepper spray can give you a moment to escape the situation. Keep your drinks safe. Women especially need to guard their beverages from being drugged. Someone can easily and quickly reach over while your head is turned to do it. Do not leave your drink unattended, ever. Use a lid when it’s possible or carry your own water bottle with a lid to put all of your beverages in. You can order a glass cover like the Nightcap to put over your beverages to protect them from being spiked. Blend in with your surroundings and look like a local. There will be a lot of people wearing Mardi Gras beads if you’re here during the parades. But if you want to look less desirable to thieves, don’t wear them. Wearing beads signals that you aren’t from here and you’re easier to target. Do not get into cars that aren’t licensed taxis or Ubers or Lyfts that you didn’t order through the app. Do not get into a vehicle with a driver who says that they drive for Uber or Lyft, but they’ll take you for cash. Only get in cars that are on the app, and verify the driver’s name before you enter the vehicle. Do not get too close to moving floats. Although it’s a rare occurrence, people have died from being run over by floats. You can lose your sense of balance very easily when you’re standing on the side of a moving float. Remain several feet away at least. You’ll probably catch more throws father back anyway. Use common sense. If you wouldn’t do it back where you live, you should not do it here. You really don’t want to end up at Orleans Parish Prison over Mardi Gras because it will take even longer than normal to get out. New Orleans is a very fun and accommodating place, but there are dangers here that are found in every major city. Protect yourself, stay aware, and stay safe.

PHOTOS, FROM TOP: ORIENTAL TRADING; ADOBE STOCK

It can be so bewildering, in fact, that it can lead you to let your guard down to the point where someone can easily take advantage of you. For those joining the city’s Mardi Gras celebration and those who have been here their whole lives, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings and keep yourself safe.

To Keep Your Good Times Rolling

e s o J f f i r e

⚜

o t n i p o L ph

G I D R A M

2 2 0 2 S RA

s p i T y t e f a S

The most popular question asked upon our deputies during Mardi Gras season is “When is the parade going to get here?” They haven’t had to answer that in nearly two years. So as we prepare for carnival season, we would like to give a refresher course on parade safety and etiquette. The Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office recognizes that Mardi Gras is a great celebration enjoyed by all. We want everyone to have a good time and, most importantly, to be safe. Jefferson Parish has a history of successful Mardi Gras celebrations. Please follow these common sense rules and you too will help this year’s Mardi Gras be a very enjoyable and safe celebration. And remember, always watch out for our children! Please stand behind the barricades while the parade is passing, and keep in mind not to cross the roadway between members of any marching group. It is also very dangerous to run between floats and vehicles while the parade is in progress. Families who want to bring ladders for the kids may certainly do so; however, ladders cannot be placed in the street or in intersection. All ladders must be placed behind the curb. e ladder must be one foot back behind the curb for every foot it is tall. For example, a six-foot ladder must be six feet back behind the curb while a three foot ladder must be three feet back behind the curb. Also, ladders cannot be tied together. No glass containers of any type are permitted within fifty (50) feet of any parade route. As broken glass can pose a serious safety hazard, this ordinance will be strictly enforced.

Please do not park in anyone’s driveway or park in a way that impedes the flow of traffic. Also, you must obey the no parking signs along the parade routes. Violators will be ticketed and towed at the owner’s expense. Mardi Gras floats are great to watch, but they can be very dangerous if you get too close, especially when they are moving. To prevent injuries, we do not permit riders to toss throws upon entering the disbanding areas. For your own safety, please stay clear of all parade disbanding areas. Ambulances, first aid stations, and lost children stations are located along all parade routes for the betterment of all parade goers. Please remember to provide a nametag with name and contact information for small children in the event you and your child become separated along the parade route. The Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office and our ,500 employees are avid supporters of Mardi Gras. In consideration of the additional responsibilities placed upon our officers during this time, please. Sheriff Joseph Lopinto Jefferson Parish obey an officer’s order to stop any disruptive behavior. We hope you enjoy Mardi Gras in Jefferson Parish. The men and women of the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office will do all they can to ensure that your Mardi Gras is a safe and pleasant one. Have a great time!

Sheriff Joseph Lopinto JEFFERSON PARISH

PAID FOR BY THE COMMITTEE TO ELECT JOSEPH LOPINTO SHERIFF WhereYat.com | February 2022

JEFFERSON CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU, INC. PRESENTS

FAMILY GRAS WHERE MUS IC MEETS MAJ EST Y

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COSTUMING & F R E E C O N C E RT S ! FEBRUARY 18-20, 2022 AT MARDI GRAS PLAZA IN METAIRIE Across from Lakeside Shopping Center Experience national & local music acts & Mardi Gras parades rolling alongside the festival!

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FRIDAY, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY FEBRUARY 18 18 Krewe Krewe of of Excalibur Excalibur & & Krewe Krewe of of Symphony Symphony

MARIE MARIE OSMOND OSMOND & & ORCHESTRA ORCHESTRA SATURDAY, SATURDAY, FEBRUARY FEBRUARY 19 19 Krewe Krewe of of MadHatters MadHatters & & Krewe Krewe of of Centurions Centurions

DAVID DAVID BATISTE BATISTE & & THE THE GLADIATORS GLADIATORS SISTER SISTER SLEDGE SLEDGE GIRL GIRL NAMED NAMED TOM TOM (Winner (Winner of of NBC’s NBC’s THE THE VOICE) VOICE) ANN ANN WILSON WILSON OF OF HEART HEART SUNDAY, SUNDAY, FEBRUARY FEBRUARY 20 20 Krewe Krewe of of Atlas Atlas

AMANDA AMANDA SHAW SHAW LAUREN LAUREN ALAINA ALAINA MARTINA MARTINA McBRIDE McBRIDE WhereYat.com | February 2022

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LET’S TAKE A DAY TRIP A Guide to Fat Tuesday Alternatives By Jeff Boudreaux

Which is all the more reason for people who are not planning on attending this revelatory festivity (i.e., me) to pack up and head out of town for a really enjoyable day trip. Perhaps you’ll even be lucky enough to have a two-day holiday, which starts at Lundi Gras, for a more-extended adventure into whichever town(s) you choose to visit. So bring your appetite, your curiosity, and a penchant for fun as you check out Louisiana’s hidden attractions: FOLSOM – There’s a good reason why I include the Global Wildlife Center in every edition of this article: this is simply a life-changing experience for the entire family. I’m not being facetious–you haven’t truly lived until you have fed giraffes, bison, zebras, and all types of deer from

Mardi Gras Manual | Where Y'at Magazine

an all-terrain trolley. The zoo definitely has its merits, yet this is the place to go when you want to rub shoulders with over 3,000 animals. The best value is the $32 bucket of feed, because if you don’t get it, you will envy everyone else who does. I also can’t stress this people food recommendation enough: For fans of fried chicken, be sure to visit Jr. Food Mart on LA-25 for the most delicious, marinated, and seasoned chicken you’ve never had. It will keep you coming back to Folsom time and time again. globalwildlife.com ABITA SPRINGS – While on the Northshore, you owe it to yourself to visit one of the weirdest, wildest places that could possibly exist. The Abita Mystery House/UCM Museum is a treasure trove

BIEDENHARN MUSEUM AND GARDENS

It has been two long years since we have had a proper Mardi Gras due to COVID-19 and its endless variants, however (barring a tremendous setback) there is expected to be record-breaking crowds for this year’s big day.

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BIEDENHARN MUSEUM AND GARDENS

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Visitors enjoy Coca-Cola in a vintage soda fountain in Biedenharn Museum & Gardens

Available now at

TheSipThatSlaps.com WhereYat.com | February 2022

of odd inventions, kitschy art, and old arcade machines. Admission is only $3 and they’re actually open seven days a week, so anytime is a good time to go.! abitamysteryhouse.com NATCHITOCHES – If you’re really hungry for traditional Southern food, journey to the Bassigator at Abita meat pie capital Mystery House of the world— Natchitoches, Louisiana! Make it a point to try the best pies in town from Lasyone’s, but be sure to get there before 2 p.m. As we all know, some of the best eateries only operate around lunchtime. Afterwards, proceed to the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame to revel in the rich, storied history of our state’s favorite pastimes and the athletes that we love. While you’re in the area, located less than 40 minutes away in the town of Winnfield, a vastly different history is on display as political junkies are beckoned to the Louisiana Political Museum, where you can learn all about the most colorful politicians that ever ran for office. lasyones. com; lasportshall.com; lapoliticalmuseum.com ANGOLA – Louisiana is certainly known for some unusual museums, and I’m still trying to locate a Door Museum that a friend of mine swears is in Transylvania (a real town in Louisiana). That is neither here nor there, but what is located 2.5 hours northwest of New Orleans is the Angola Museum at the Louisiana State Penitentiary, the

all about the trio at the Delta Music Museum, with exhibits devoted to Fats Domino, Irma Thomas, Clarence “Frogman” Henry, et al. Go into more depth concerning the wildest man in rock and roll at the Jerry Lee Lewis Museum and Drive-Thru Liquor Store (you can’t make stuff like this up). Be sure to ask one of the nice ladies there about the time “Killer” brought a gun to Graceland, demanding that Delta Music Museum and “The King” make an appearance! Arcade Theatre Before you leave this neck of the woods, visit the Frogmore Plantation and authentic Cotton largest (and most notorious) maximum security prison in Gin, where you can even help the nation. See “Gruesome Gertie,” the decommissioned pick “the fabric of our lives.” deltamusicmuseum.com; electric chair that claimed the lives of 87 convicted frogmoreplantation.com murderers. Of course, there’s also the famous horsedrawn hearse that most prisoners left the grounds in. On MONROE – Any lover of Coca-Cola has to visit the a much lighter note, you can learn all about the annual Biedenharn Museum & Gardens in Monroe. Where else rodeo, which has delighted audiences since 1965. Before can you grab an ice-cold glass bottle of Coke for only 5 you leave, don’t forget to visit the gift shop, where you cents? Learn about the history of the world’s preeminent can buy a shirt touting Louisiana’s premiere “Gated soft drink in the cozy atmosphere of an old-time soda Community.” After all this, chances are you’ll be hungry fountain. Marvel at the vintage soft drink memorabilia in enough for a dinner that could deservedly count as a “last the museum and maybe even pick a few kumquats outside meal.” Well, look no further than The Francis Southern in the garden. For the religious (or students thereof), be Table & Bar down in Saint Francisville where you can sure to check out the Bible Museum, which houses an feast on top-of-the-line steaks and seafood. Don’t leave authentic 1611 King James Bible. Last, but not least, the without trying the Duck Confit Eggrolls. three-in-one admission (only $7) also includes a tour of angolamuseum.org; thefrancissoutherntable.com original Coke bottler Joseph Beidenharn’s historic home. A nice, two-day excursion into Northeast Louisiana FERRIDAY – Located less than 20 minutes away from could also include the Poverty Point World Heritage Natchez, the town of Ferriday is home to Louisiana’s Site, a breathtaking, archeological park showcasing the most famous cousins—music legends Jerry Lee Lewis, monuments created by indigenous peoples thousands of Mickey Gilley, and televangelist Jimmy Swaggart. Learn years ago. bmuseum.org; povertypoint.us

17th annual

EAGLE EXPO Morgan City, La.

• Boat Tours to view eagles • Field Trips • Photography Workshop • Social • Birds of Prey program • Tickets – www.bontempstix.com • Group Rates available • https://www.cajuncoast.com/event/eagle-expo This historic estate offers a glimpse into life in the 1800’s through the guided tour and the original artwork and artifacts throughout the mansion. 38 acres of the South’s most beautiful gardens surround the estate offering brightly colored florals year round. Restaurants and a boutique Inn are also available for spending the day or night at Houmas House. Save time to visit The Great River Road Museum which explores life along the Mississippi River in the 1800's. 40136 Hwy 942 | Darrow, LA 70725 www.HoumasHouse.com

Mardi Gras Manual | Where Y'at Magazine

(800) 256-2931 www.cajuncoast.com #cajuncoast

FROM LEFT: ABITA MYSTERY HOUSE/UCM / JOHN PREBLE; DELTA MUSIC MUSEUM AND ARCADE THEATRE

Feb. 18-19, 2022

On the Parade Route St. Charles & Common 705 Common St | 504.595.5605 | hotelindigonola.com | commoninterestnola.com

WhereYat.com | February 2022

A RACING SEASON 150 LAKESIDE2RIVERSIDE UPCOMING FESTIVALS & EVENTS YEARS IN THE MAKING. TET FEST

February 4 – 6 | Mary Queen of Vietnam Church neworleans.com Mary Queen of Vietnam Church, the centerpiece of the New Orleans area’s Vietnamese community, will be hosting its annual Tet Fest in early February. Also known as Vietnamese New Year, Tet is the most important and recognizable celebration of Vietnamese culture and heritage. The fest is free and will feature performances like dragon dances, drumming, and other live and authentic Vietnamese music. Traditional Vietnamese food like pho, banh mi, spring rolls, and much more will be served. Each night will end with a dazzling firework display. This year’s Tet Fest will be celebrating the Year of the Tiger.

HUMANA ROCK ‘N’ ROLL MARATHON February 5 – 6 | University of New Orleans runrocknroll.com/new-orleans

Experience the Mardi Gras flare of New Orleans while getting good exercise at this year’s Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon. Three different routes, each of which will start and end at UNO, will be offered: a half marathon, 5K, and 10K. To get racers in the Carnival mood, floats, live music, and more entertainment will be along each route. Marathoners are encouraged to come out in Mardi Gras garb and accessories like beads and masks. Anyone who crosses the finish line will receive a beautifully designed finisher medal, as well as a remix or heavy medal if they participate in more than one race.

We’re celebrating 150 YEARS of incredible horses, accomplished jockeys and the greatest racing fans in the world. We look forward to having you back for more exciting races! SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 19 LOUISIANA DERBY PREVIEW DAY

Humana Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon

POST TIME: NOON Visit FairGroundsRaceCourse.com for a full racing schedule.

TOOL IN CONCERT

FRIENDS. FUN. FAIR GROUNDS. Must be 21 years of age and have valid government-issued photo ID.

American rock band Tool will be making a stop at New Orleans’ Smoothie King Center during their latest tour across the United States. Forming in 1990, Tool has received critical acclaim and international commercial success for their complex music and visual style. So far, the band has won multiple music awards, including four Grammy Awards. Their latest album Fear Inoculum, released in 2019, topped the US Billboard 200 chart, as well as other charts in many other countries. From that album, the song “Fear Inoculum” was nominated for the Best Rock Song Grammy and the song “7empest” won the Best Metal Performance Grammy.

17th Annual Eagle Expo

EAGLE EXPO

February 18 – 19 | Cajun Coast, Morgan City cajuncoast.com Don’t miss the opportunity to observe and learn about America’s national bird, the bald eagle, at the 17th Annual Eagle Expo. Hosted by the Cajun Coast Convention & Visitors Bureau, Eagle Expo presents a weekend of presentations, events, boat tours, FGNO-40086_1.29-WhereY’at-RacingAd_4.78x10.75.indd 1

Mardi Gras Manual | Where Y'at Magazine

1/21/22 12:57 PM

FROM TOP: ROCK 'N' ROLL RUNNING SERIES; PEXELS / PIXABAY

February 5 | Smoothie King Center toolband.com

UPCOMING

FEBRUARY 7 HOUSE OF BLUES

FEBRUARY 18 HOUSE OF BLUES

FEBRUARY 26 HOUSE OF BLUES

FEBRUARY 23 FILLMORE

EVENTS IN NOLA GET TICKETS NOW AT LIVENATION.COM

FEBRUARY 24 FILLMORE

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MARCH 4 HOUSE OF BLUES

MARCH 11 FILLMORE

MARCH 23 - 26, 2022 CONTEMPORARY ARTS CENTER | NEW ORLEANS MARRIOTT BOURBON BRAWL PRESENTED BY JIM BEAM MARCH 23 MASTER DISTILLER DINNERS MARCH 24 BOURBON VIP PARTY MARCH 24 CONTEMPORARY ARTS CENTER GRAND TASTINGS MARCH 25 & 26

FOR TICKETS AND MORE INFO VISIT NEWORLEANSBOURBONFESTIVAL .COM

WhereYat.com | February 2022

•

and more activities set in the Atchafalaya Basin and surrounding bayous, which are home to many nesting pairs of bald eagles. The tours also provide the opportunity to witness many other types of local flora and fauna such as herons, egrets, ibises, and more. Registration is mandatory for any and all boat tours and field trips associated with Eagle Expo.

A R N I VA L AT T H E ••• •• C

6 HISTORIC BLOCKS OF SHOPPING, DINING & EVENTS •

Sandestin Gumbo Festival

SANDESTIN GUMBO FESTIVAL

O P E N D A I LY •

February 18 - 19 The Village of Baytowne Wharf, Miramar Beach, Florida sandestingumbofestival.com

Featuring clothing, jewelry, arts and crafts, home decor, children’s toys, unique gifts and souvenirs

For Louisiana flavored fun outside of the state, visit the 33rd Annual Sandestin Gumbo Festival in Florida. Known as one of the largest and most popular winter food events along Florida’s Emerald Coast, the event offers everything that Louisianians are used to. The fest will kick off with a seafood boil at Hammerhead’s Bar & Grille on February 18. The main event on February 19 will feature a gumbo cooking contest, as well as a Bloody Mary contest. Live music will be provided by Dikki Du and the Zydeco Krewe. Children’s activities will also be available.

FAMILY GRAS

February 18 – 20 3300 Block of Veterans Memorial Boulevard, Metairie visitjeffersonparish.com

PARKING

Chartres St.

Decatur St.

N. Peters St

Esplanade Ave. Barracks St.

Metairie’s family-friendly, Mardi Gras event Family Gras is returning for 2022. This free event is coming back to its original location at Mardi Gras Plaza on Veterans, which is across from Lakeside Shopping Center. Parades, local food, an art market, and more will be offered. Children can enjoy Family Gras’ Kids’ Court, which provides plenty of activities like interactive games, face painting, and more. The event will also feature live music from national and local musicians. Past Family Gras headliners include Marie Osmond, Ann Wilson of Heart, and Sister Sledge.

New Orleans’ biggest Mardi Gras block party, Bacchus Bash, is bringing back the festive fun for 2022. Starting in the 1980s, Bacchus Bash, which goes from noon until the party is over, is a day-long celebration that precedes the renowned Krewe of Bacchus parade. The bash is free and open to the public, but VIP tickets are available for anyone who wants access to an outdoor grandstand, private bathrooms, and an open bar. Live musical performances will be provided by The Molly Ringwalds, The TopCats, Category 6, as well as DJ Mannie Fresh, DJ Wixx, and DJ TAF.

Dumaine St.

LINE RIVERSIDE STREETCAR

Decatur St.

St. Peter St.

learn more at frenchmarket.org

French Market New Orleans Mardi Gras Manual | Where Y'at Magazine

FrenchMktNOLA

Celebrate the official day before Mardi Gras at the 28th Annual George V. Rainey Golden Nugget Lundi Gras Festival. Hosted by 800 members of the Zulu Social Aid & Pleasure Club, this event will be from 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. and will be spread out along New Orleans’ beautiful riverfront. The fest is free and will offer plenty of food, arts, and crafts. There will also be live music provided by local and Grammy-winning musicians on three different stages. There is also a VIP Experience available, which offers all day reserved seating in front of the King Zulu's Lundi Zulu Stage, as well as food, Gras Festival drinks, and air-conditioned bathrooms.

FROM TOP: SANDESTIN GUMBO FEST; GUSTAVO ESCANELLE

February 28 | Woldenberg Park lundigrasfestival.com

St. Phillip St.

St. Ann St.

February 27 | Generations Hall | eventbrite.com

ZULU’S LUNDI GRAS FESTIVAL

PARKING

THE FR ENCH QUARTER

Ursulines Ave.

BACCHUS BASH 2022

MAY 18 SMOOTHIE KING CENTER

GET TICKETS NOW

APRIL

February 4 ..............................................Gospel Concert Explosion with Fred Hammond February 18.................................................................... Katt Williams: World War III Tour March 11 ....................................................................14th Annual Big Easy Blues Festival March 25 .....................................The Fabulously Funny Comedy Festival with Mike Epps April 1-2...............................................................................................Hogs For The Cause April 3.......................................................................................... HBCU All-Star Basketball April 10...................................................................................... KEM – The Full Circle Tour April 13....................................................................................................All Elite Wrestling

Tickets can be purchased at www.ticketmaster.com or the Lakefront Arena Box Office WhereYat.com | February 2022

LOOKING FOR LOVE ON THE ONLINE SPACES Dos and Don’ts of Online Dating

By Celeste Turner

Today, more than three million adults have acknowledged that they have used a dating site or app in order to hopefully meet their match. According to a 2019 study, about a quarter of the adult online users reported that they have gone on a date with someone they met online. Given these staggering statistics, it is best to research and evaluate the multitude of dating apps before you decide to sign up. When you are browsing for potential matches, the most popular platforms to choose from include Bumble, Tinder, Hinge, Match.com, OkCupid, Grindr, and, lastly, eHarmony. “I have recently tried online dating,” Ashley, a 25-year-old medical student living in New Orleans, said. “I’ve used both Hinge and Bumble, although I’ve only met up with ‘matches’ on Hinge. I’ve used it for the last seven months or so. The original lockdown or quarantine didn’t allow for much in-person mingling, so I took to online dating because it was a way to still meet people.” In other words, the pandemic spurred the rise of online dating with sociallydistant meetings and video dates. Now, the promise of post-vaccination has fueled in-person dating for many single Americans like Ashley. “From my perspective, there has been no harm in going to meet up with someone for drinks or dinner,” Ashley said. “For

the most part, the dates are true to their profile. I haven’t experienced any catfishing, thankfully. I am currently casually seeing someone that I met on Hinge.” According to Ashley, you need to be aware of “catfishing.” This occurs when you have been interacting with a real person who created a fake persona online to form a relationship, whether through social media or dating websites. When choosing a website, check out the platform’s features and audience before you sign up. Another thought, when making plans to meet up with someone, do your research on them; confirm that they’re a real person and that their online information is accurate. Some dating applications use certain algorithms to match people based on their information, whereas other dating apps connect people with common interests, traits, or orientations. For Stacy, a local registered nurse, she found her recent match on the Hinge app and they are still currently dating. “Yes, I have tried online dating,” Stacy said. “I do think these apps helped me meet people for several reasons. Being 35 and divorced, living in New Orleans, it’s like everybody knows everybody and it's hard to meet new people. The majority of friends are married with kids, and there was the COVID factor, so when I started using dating apps, there really wasn't much of going anywhere to meet anyone anyway.” When you’re ready to start swiping for a possible partner, here are a few tips to keep you safe and make the experience more enjoyable.

Mardi Gras Manual | Where Y'at Magazine

2. DON’T PUT YOURSELF AT RISK When you are browsing for potential matches, be careful about disclosing personal information. For example, you are advised not to list your home or work address during online conversations with strangers. Of course, when you decide to meet up with your new match, pick a public place for your rendezvous and let your friends or family know where you will be. It is best not to let the person pick you up or drop you off for your first few dates. 3. DO CREATE AN INTERESTING PROFILE Perhaps, it should come as no surprise that online daters are attracted to photos more than anything else. So Ashley suggested that you step up your game with your selfies to form imaginative and authentic profiles. “When making your profile, I’d say try to sound as approachable as possible,”

Ashley said. “Guys, please no flexing, pictures holding a fish you caught, or a selfie you took while driving.” Think quality, not quantity, while crafting your profile, which may take extra effort but yield better results. 4. DO LEAVE YOUR BAGGAGE AT HOME A rule of thumb while dating online is to wait to talk about past relationships. Avoid talking about your previous breakups, failures, or flaws in the initial phase of dating. Meeting a potential suitor through a dating app is supposed to be lighthearted and fun. “I had mostly positive experiences,” Stacy said. “I met some really cool people and had great conversations.” 5. BE PERSISTENT When it comes to internet dating, it may take time to find your potential match. At first, you may be disappointed because you’re swiping a long list of promising people who don’t live up to your expectations. Whether you are getting rejected or rejecting someone, be patient. It is perfectly fine if you don’t meet anyone for the first few months of online dating. “It's okay if someone swipes left on you or doesn't find you attractive,” Stacy said. “There is always someone else who will and if you have to alter your entire appearance for that person, then they aren't for you.” She also indicated to keep your options open while using dating apps. “Change up your settings,” Stacy said. “Expand the distance of the search, go a little older than you normally would, be open to someone that isn't typically your type. You have to be open to meeting new people.” Remember, dating is a process, whether you’re talking online or meeting in person. Keep the conversation and activity fun. While building a new relationship, make sure to do things that you enjoy. Above all, Ashley emphasized “be kind.” You could be spending the rest of your life with your next online match.

ADOBE STOCK

Looking for love in the digital age? Well, you’re not alone.

1. BE HONEST AND OPEN One of the advantages of online dating is that you can be specific about what you are looking for and potentially ask awkward questions before an actual date. For example, if the dating app provides prompt questions about yourself, take the time to respond in a thoughtful way to show different sides of your personality. “For someone using these apps for the first time, I’d say set your expectations before linking up,” Ashley said. “Be vulnerable and honest. Know what you’re looking for, whether that’s something casual or something serious, because it varies for everyone!” Stacy agreed. “The best advice I can give someone who is using a dating app is to be honest about who you are, your likes, and dislikes,” Stacy added. “And for God’s sake, be honest about what you look like. The filters people use to alter their photos is insane and it's a false advertisement.”

WhereYat.com | February 2022

6307 S. Miro St. at Claiborne 509-6224

4400 Banks St. 483-8609

Order Online Now! MidCityPizza.com •

MY FUNNY

While not always funny in the moment, humor is often found in some of the most heartbreaking moments of our love lives over time. By Robert Witkowski

ADOBE STOCK

Comedian Steve Allen observed that “tragedy plus time equals comedy.” The concept is so seemingly accurate, it’s been adopted by Carol Burnett, Bob Newhart, Lenny Bruce, and even Woody Allen. Never is this emotional mathematical calculation more accurate than when we look back on Valentine’s Day debacles and laugh at the memory.

Mardi Gras Manual | Where Y'at Magazine

VALENTINE

NO ESCAPING LOVE My favorite V-Day date of all time was dinner and an escape room—no better way to show you love someone than to escape with them. —Rebecca Fox WIND BENEATH HIS WINGS I absolutely love Hooters hot wings—couldn’t get enough of them in high school (and I do just mean the wings). One Valentine’s season, they had a “Shred-Your-Ex” deal. I was in my first relationship and didn’t yet have an “ex.” Therefore, I thought it’d be a great idea to use a picture of my then current girlfriend for laughs and, like magic, I got a free order of 10 additional wings with any meal purchase I made. I was very happy. I dated that same girl for about a year, and my Hooters ploy came up in conversation the next January. Things were already on the rocks at this point, but it was the last straw on the camel’s back when she found out I “would be so ignorant as to use her to get stupid chicken wings.” We broke up just a few weeks before Valentine’s Day. I was very upset— extremely distraught, in fact. I was so distraught, I brought her picture in for the same Valentine’s Day promotion for 10 extra free chicken wings again. —Grant Varner

ADOBE STOCK

NOT CUPID’S ARROW I had always fancied being moonstruck, but I was struck by a sharp metal fencing pole instead. I was sashaying my, years-ago, youthful cuteness past an adorable hunk when I went slightly off course and impaled my shin. My pride took over and forced me to continue my strut (quickly away) so he might never notice my sexiness being reduced to clumsiness, tears, and a gaping wound. Finally, I made it around the corner, out of sight, and limped back to my apartment to call my momma to bring me some bandages and her advice: “Girl, never let a man turn your head without first looking where you are going.” —Debbie Lindsey GROUPTHINK GONE WRONG My parents decided to put money towards our new home in lieu of Valentine’s Day gifts to each other. While discussing Valentine’s gifts over lunch at work, my father contributed their fiscally responsible compromise to the conversation—a decision decisively eviscerated with a guarantee of his indefinite nights sleeping on a couch were he to not sidestep this

WhereYat.com | February 2022

agreement and surprise my mother with a gift. (Un)fortunately, someone volunteered a solution: He would surprise her with a gift, but, to reassure her the gift wasn’t a full departure from their pecuniary pact, he would ensure that she knew it was inexpensive. This concession, bewilderingly, received unanimous approval of the break-room tribunal. Season this recipe for disaster with my father’s absent eye for female fashion: The result was an oversized, leopard-print bag from Payless, complete with a discount-aisle tag. I remember this vividly because it was after that year he began asking my sister and I—and never, ever again his staff—for gift ideas. —Greg Roques

FEELING FOOLISH It was a week that only seemed to get worse. I was served with divorce papers by my then-wife on Monday. Tuesday was spent lawyer shopping. Wednesday, it was confirmed one of my parents had a terminal disease. Thursday, a friend of the family suddenly passed away. Friday the 13th lived up to expectations. And all of these weekdays culminated into the fabled 14th day of February. We had Valentine’s Day dinner reservations at an elegant seaside restaurant with the family (who still knew nothing of our impending separation). The mood was somber, but the veiled mask of happiness and romance by my wife and I was Oscar-worthy. A Valentine’s Day to cap a hellacious week to remember, to be sure. The humor is mercilessly pointed out by our daughters, who mischievously (and a tad sadistically) remind me it was our own fault— we got engaged and married a year later on April Fool’s Day. An unintended time-release prank, if there ever was one. —Robert Witkowski It’s comforting to remember your disastrous Valentine’s Day experience this year is likely to be one of many funny stories paving the road to love. After all, there's a reason all’s fair in both love and war.

ADOBE STOCK (2)

BREAKUP BY CANDLELIGHT A few years ago, I dated a guy just long enough to have someone to hug at Christmas, kiss on New Year’s Eve, and take care of after he drank too much at Mardi Gras. But shortly thereafter, we were already on the outs. We celebrated Valentine’s Day a day late to avoid the rush of lovestruck couples overtaking the local eateries. I made reservations at a nice restaurant [Ralph’s on the Park], and a friend of mine was our server. He dumped me—very publicly—over blackened Gulf fish and truffle fries. If you ask him, I’m sure he didn’t want to break up at our Valentine’s dinner, but I forced it out of him. The truth is I knew something was wrong and asked him about it. He said, “I really don’t think this is the time to discuss it,” which only opened a can of worms.

But worms don’t go so well with Gulf fish and truffle fries, so I’ll admit that I did ask him to elaborate. And I was single again by dessert. Knowing that he’d at least have the decency to pick up the tab, I decided to stick around for the sake of a fancy, free meal. I even gave him Valentine’s Day gifts. And when my server friend asked if there was anything else she could get for us, I resisted the temptation to order the most expensive bottle of champagne. I asked her for a praline bread pudding to go, to soothe my broken heart later, home alone with my cat. –Kathy Bradshaw

Mardi Gras Manual | Where Y'at Magazine

7 6 0 St. P h i l i p St.

B at o n R o u g e , L A

WhereYat.com | February 2022

UPTOWN

GRUB

Places to Eat and Drink Along the Uptown Parade Routes

Mardi Gras season is filled with plenty of parades that highlight talented bands and dazzling floats. Large crowds of people congregate to watch these parades and celebrate Louisiana culture. After not being able to celebrate the carnival season properly last year, New Orleanians are excited to get back on the parade route and enjoy the festivities. Watching a string of parades can leave someone famished, but not to worry, there are plenty of amazing, local restaurants and bars along the parade route where you can grab a drink and a quick bite to eat. Stop by some of these local favorites, and let the good times roll! ALL ALONG THE ROUTE Superior Grill Selling thousands of their famous house margaritas during the Mardi Gras season, Superior Grill is a great place to enjoy the parades right on St. Charles Avenue. Their viewing-stand balcony and upbeat music create a fun and lively atmosphere for parade-goers who congregate around the restaurant. There will be a select number of tables offered inside on a first-come, first-serve basis, as well as tables with a premium view of St. Charles being sold. 3636 St. Charles Ave., 504-899-4200, neworleans.superiorgrill.com

Mardi Gras Manual | Where Y'at Magazine

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: PIZZA DOMINICA FROM LEFT: COURTESY OF FRANK G. FEDUCCIA PHOTOGRAPHY; COURTESY OF PASCAL'S MANALE

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Jack Rose & Hot Tin Fat Harry’s Love a good sports bar and pub? Fat Harry’s supplies some of the best sliders, wings, and cheese fries to hungry customers. Their casual but lively environment is perfect for anyone who needs to grab a quick drink or snack in between parades. The bar offers indoor seating, along with seats right on the sidewalk, so you can dine-in and still have a great view of the parades. 4330 St. Charles Ave., 504-895-9582, fatharrysnola.com

Delachaise Wine Bar Located right on the streetcar line, Delachaise Wine Bar is known for having some of the best fries in all of Louisiana. This makes it the perfect spot to grab a glass of wine from their expansive wine list while indulging in their impeccably prepared shareables. You can grab a seat on the patio to watch the parades go by and catch some throws or you can conveniently take your food to-go. 3442 St. Charles Ave., 504-895-0858, thedelachaise.com Tacos & Beer The tacos and beer combinations are enough to leave anyone satisfied, especially during the Mardi Gras season. Tacos & Beer offers a great dining experience, serving up tacos stuffed with shrimp, chicken, fish, beef, and vegetables. Their tacos and fajitas pair nicely with their wide selection of draft or bottled beers. 1622 St. Charles Ave., 504-304-8722, facebook.com/tacosneworleans

Mardi Gras Manual | Where Y'at Magazine

Gracious Bakery

FROM TOP: COURTESY OF JACK ROSE. / HOT TIN; COURTESY RANDY P SCHMIDT

Please U Restaurant Providing some New Orleans classics such as po-boys, gumbo, red beans and rice, and an assortment of seafood platters, Please U Restaurant has everything they need to please their customers. If take-out is more your style, their po-boys are easy to transport for large groups. Besides offering Louisiana-style cuisine, the restaurant also serves classic breakfast items all day. 1751 St. Charles Ave., 504-525-9131, pleaseunola.com

AWARD BLOOD WINNING Y MARY S • Full Bar w/ Happy Hour •Restaurant Outdoor & Patio Seating •Private Room to Full • Restaurant Buyout Available from Parties of 2 to 125!

4734 MAGAZINE ST • 510-2791 MISANOLA.COM @MISANOMAGAZINE

Come visit any of our 7 locations: Daisy Dukes 121 Chartres St. French Quarter

Daisy Dukes Cafe 308 St. Charles Ave. CBD

Daisy Mae’s 902 Poydras St. Warehouse District

Daisy Dukes 1200 W. Approach Mandeville

Daisy Dukes Express 123 Carondelet St. CBD

Daisy Dukes 2244 Veterans Blvd. Kenner

Daisy Dukes 5209 W. Napoleon Ave. Metairie

WhereYat.com | February 2022

A spirited sanctuary in the heart of New Orleans. You’re invited 544 Carondelet St barmarilou.com @barmarilou

Jack Rose/Hot Tin Located inside The Pontchartrain Hotel, Jack Rose is known for its fun ambiance and trendy decor. The Cajun-Creole restaurant will be offering a specialty Mardi Gras menu during the parades for customers to enjoy. After grabbing a bite to eat at Jack Rose, you can go upstairs to their sister restaurant and rooftop bar, Hot Tin, for some specialty cocktails and other libations. 2031 St. Charles Ave., 504-323-1500, jackroserestaurant.com Lula Restaurant Distillery Vodka lovers can enjoy premium cocktails at Lula Restaurant Distillery when participating in their Mardi Gras festivities. The distillery is hosting its annual “Lula Gras,” where patrons can purchase a ticket and receive access to an all-you-can-eat buffet, clean bathrooms, a cash bar, and a private balcony to watch the parades pass by. Their main dining room will also be open for people to stop in and grab a table on a first-come, first-serve basis. 1532 St. Charles Ave., 504-267-7624, lulanola.com Gracious Bakery If you find yourself craving something sweet, Gracious Bakery has a variety of fantastic house-baked pastries and king cakes. Besides satisfying your sweet tooth, the bakery also has a Mardi Gras food menu filled with options that would make the perfect lunch right on the parade route. These options include a hot roast beef sandwich, a buttery grilled cheese, and jerk chicken hand pies. 2854 St. Charles Ave., 504-301-9949, graciousbakery.com

Mardi Gras Manual | Where Y'at Magazine

WORTH THE WALK Casamento’s Whether you like your oysters raw, fried, or chargrilled, Casamento’s, just a block off of the parade route, is famous for their spectacularly prepared oysters. The seafood restaurant has been operating in Uptown New Orleans for over 100 years, and their popularity seems to keep growing as they’ve been visited by numerous celebrities, including Guy Fieri and Bradley Cooper. Besides oysters, you can also order their Italian menu items and seafood platters. 4330 Magazine St., 504-895-9761, casamentosrestaurant.com Pascal’s Manale Serving New Orleanians since 1913, Pascal’s Manale has been a staple in the community for years. About three blocks from the route, enjoy some of their famous BBQ Shrimp or Italian menu items as the parades start on Napoleon Avenue. Since February and March are great months for oysters, ordering some of their delicious chargrilled or raw oysters is a necessity. The restaurant will also be offering beer, wine, and daiquiris. 1838 Napoleon Ave., 504-895-4877, pascalsmanale.com Pizza Domenica Wood-fired pizza makes a tasty and convenient meal, and Pizza Domenica can satisfy any and all pizza cravings. While this restaurant is on the former route, it’s still a great place to hit along the way to the parades. Their Mardi Gras grab-and-go special is a favorite amongst parade-goers, as you can grab a cheese or pepperoni pizza with to-go drinks at any time. The restaurant will also be bringing back their delicious and festive king cake knots for patrons to enjoy. 4933 Magazine St., 504-301-4978, pizzadomenica.com

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Pascal’s Manale

WhereYat.com | February 2022

Wishing Town Bakery's Taro Chantilly Cake

$20 AND UNDER

Tujague's Grasshopper

Plume Algiers' Mangodi Sabzi

Tasting the Purple, Green, & Gold By Kim Ranjbar

There's plenty of reasons to abstain—if the resurgence of COVID breakouts (and its Omicron variant) aren't enough, how about the shutdown/work-from-home-related, increased anxiety you now feel in large crowds? Another 12 months of therapy would go far towards shaking that particular monkey off of all our backs. If you're just not feeling up to go to the Mardi Gras, surely you're game to eat it? Make a Carnival-long commitment to eating local foodstuffs that most closely resemble the colors we flaunt every season: devour something purple for justice, feast on a dish of green for faith, and get your fill of golden

Que Rico Cuban Cafe's Pickled Cabbag

Mardi Gras Manual | Where Y'at Magazine

goodies for power. Granted, you could go the easy route and eat a colorful slice of king cake (something you should be doing anyhow), but isn't it more delicious to go for something more challenging? It's more difficult than you'd think. Purple is the first and most challenging color. Going the sweet route would be the most obvious choice, like a thick, glorious slice of cake at Wishing Town Bakery. A purple-as-Prince slice of Taro Chantilly Cake with layers of sweet whipped cream will only set you back $5, so maybe you should order two? You'd regret not adding a few purple-hued dan huang su—Chinese, salty-eggyolk puff pastry—for good measure. You can pick a peck of pickled purple cabbage at Que Rico Cuban Cafe on Magazine Street. Order the spicy side on its own for only a five-spot, or treat yourself to a roasted pork Cuban sandwich topped with maduros and that purple pickled cabbage or eat it on their vegan-version with fried yuca, sweet plantains, and mojo sauce. Practically any eggplant dish would qualify to fill your purple quota, though most are fried and/or slathered in so much sauce, the visual cue just wouldn't be obvious. But if you're strapped, feel free to close your eyes while taking a monstrous bite of Joey K's Eggplant Napoleon. We promise, through all of the crawfish, butter, cornmeal, and Creole seasoning, you won't be able to miss that distinctive purple flavor. There's a ton of veggie-filled dishes to help you eat green, but why settle for just any old salad? For example, you might pay a little more than a pretty penny to enjoy The Chloe's eponymous starter, but will it be an entire, buttery head of Bibb lettuce filled with poached Gulf shrimp flavored with crab fat and ravigote? They also offer a winter green salad with crispy fish rillettes and purple and golden beets, a magically, Mardi Gras dish exuding all three colors at once. Here's hoping it stays on the menu. Brussels sprouts seem to be just about everywhere, but at Bub's Burgers, you can have them fried and tossed in a sweet and spicy honey sriracha glaze. Served alongside a burger “Royale,” complete with American cheese, you barely miss the ubiquitous fries. For a sweeter taste of green, sink your teeth into the green tea cream puff filled with green tea pastry cream at Beard Papa's on Magazine Street. Or you could head down to the French Quarter and sip on a bright green boozy treat:

The Chloe's Shrimp Ravigote Salad

a creamy, minty Grasshopper—the signature cocktail at Tujague's Tujague's.. Probably the tastiest of the Carnival trio is gold. What pops immediately to mind is the glorious, golden yolk of a perfectly-poached egg or a basket of golden-fried chicken from any Popeyes in the state. But what about changing it up a bit with curry? Over at Plume Algiers on Teche Street, they're making “mangodi sabzi,” a mildly-spiced golden curry with fried yellow lentil fritters, broken curds, and sprouts. Soap it up with a pile of basmati rice or a couple of orders of roti. Crispy French fries from the golden arches will fit the bill, but the ones you get at Cafe Degas with an order of steamed mussels far surpass the fast-food giant's signature side. It's highly advisable to eat those golden, crispy beauties with a bowl of mussels, but you can just get a pile of their fresh-from-the-fryer fries with a side of house-made aioli. That way, you can afford to slurp the pale-yellow crème anglaise sauce from their floating isle meringue dessert.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: WISHING TOWN BAKERY; KIM RANJBAR (4)

Though a measured level of Mardi Gras is expected this year, are you one of many folks out there hesitant to participate? Are you hoping for at least one more year of house parades?

329 DECATUR STREET • 504-373-4852 Cajun Cookin Makes You Good Lookin’! evangelineneworleans.com

@evangelineneworleans

evangline.nola

7AM – 9PM Fri & Sat 10PM

WhereYat.com | February 2022

RESTAURANT GUIDE AMERICAN

Bayou Hot Wings has 13 different flavors that you can choose from for your wings. Don’t miss out on trying their mouthwatering Southern Fried Gator Bites. Bayou Hot Wings is a particular favorite hangout for Tulane and Loyola students. 6221 S. Claiborne Ave., 504-865-9464, bayouhotwings.com

Mediterranean Food by Israeli Chef Tal Sharon In-Room Dining, Take-out & Delivery, and Catering Available

4800 Magazine St. | 267-7357 @talshummus OrderTalsOnline.com

Bub’s NOLA, located next to Banks St. Bar, started as a pop up in 2020 by five friends. Try the unique and tasty Peanut Bubber Burger with peanut butter and bacon. Their De Gen Fries with cheese fries, bacon, jalapenos, and ranch are a must-try. 4413 Banks St., 504-581-8054, bubsnola.com Bud’s Broiler is home to New Orleans’ favorite charbroiled burgers. You can also order their delicious Fried Seafood Plates with catfish and shrimp or their finger-licking wings. Their Canal Boulevard location is right next to Morning Call! Multiple Locations, facebook.com/Buds-Broiler Chicken & Watermelon is right next door to Jazz Daiquiris, so grab a drink after your wings! The Garlic Parmesan Wings are really delicious and perfect for sharing. The Jerk Fries are fingerlicking good and a great taste of island flavors. 3400 S. Claiborne Ave., 504-896-4596, boogiebird.com Crescent City Steaks has been serving New Orleans for over 87 years. They invented the “NOLA-style” of sizzling steaks in butter. They also offer dishes like broiled salmon, broiled lobster tail, and a very delicious bread pudding. 1001 N. Broad St., 504-821-3271, crescentcitysteaks.com

1111 Gravier St., 504-518-5500, troubadourlounge.squarespace.com

ASIAN Mikimoto has all of the freshest sushi that you can find in New Orleans. They’ve been serving the Greater New Orleans area Japanese cuisine for more than 20 years. Try the Spicy NOFD Roll, in honor of the New Orleans Fire Department. 3301 S. Carrollton Ave., 504-488-1881, mikimotosushi.com

BARS WITH GREAT FOOD Buffa’s Bar & Restaurant presents an unpretentious atmosphere that’s great for hanging out with friends. They provide live music every Thursday through Monday. Make sure to try one of their mouthwatering burgers, such as the Buffa Burger. 1001 Esplanade Ave., 504-949-0038, buffasbar.com Down The Hatch Bar & Grill serves delicious and reasonably priced cuisine in the Garden District. In addition to satisfying drinks, they offer burgers, platters, and more. Save room for the homemade New York Cheesecake. 1921 Sophie Wright Pl., 504-522-0909, downthehatchnola.com Ernst Cafe has some of the best red beans and rice in the Warehouse District. The cafe is steps away from Harrah’s Casino and it’s a fun spot to watch the big game with its multiple TVs. The Blue Crab Cake Sandwich is a fantastic meal for lunch. 600 S. Peters St., 504-525-8544, ernstcafe.com

Legacy Kitchen’s Steak + Chop is a great spot for a date night on the Westbank. The restaurant has some truly amazing Charbroiled Oysters with grilled bread. The Skillet Crawfish Cornbread is a must-try before your main course. 91 Westbank Expy. #51, Gretna, 504-513-2606, legacykitchen.com Manning’s Sports Bar & Grill has some of the best wings, BBQ ribs, and nachos in New Orleans. They have over 30 flat screen TVs, two 13-foot mega-screens, and a sports anchor desk. They also have a delicious Chicken & Andouille Gumbo with jasmine rice. 519 Fulton St., 504-593-8118, caesars.com

Riccobono’s Panola Street Café

The Steakhouse at Harrah’s is located steps away from your favorite slot machines. They offer gourmet steakhouse classics inspired by the flavors of New Orleans. Make sure to save some room and order their mouthwatering desserts for dinner! 8 Canal St., 504-533-6111, caesars.com The Troubadour Lounge & Listening Room is located inside the beautiful Troubadour Hotel. Its easy-going atmosphere makes it perfect to enjoy some cocktails with friends. Make sure to go out when they have live music!

Mardi Gras Manual | Where Y'at Magazine

Gattuso’s Neighborhood Restaurant has a variety of sandwiches and wraps to please everyone in your party. The Firecracker Shrimp Salad is a real knockout! Gattuso’s outdoor patio is perfect for a drink or two after work with friends. 435 Huey P. Long Ave., Gretna, 504-368-1114, gattusos.net MRB Bar & Kitchen has all your favorite NOLA classics, plus plenty of specialty drinks! Get the chicken fried alligator sandwich on a Hawaiian sour dough bun. With live music to accompany your meal, each dining experience will be unique. 515 St. Philip St., 504-524-2558, mrbnola.com

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Spudly’s Super Spuds has been making their “meals in baked potatoes” for over 40 years. Anything you could possibly want in a baked potato is sure to be on Spudly’s menu. The restaurant also serves really tasty soups and burgers. 2609 Harvard Ave., Metairie, 504-455-3250, spudlys.com

Flamingo A-Go-Go offers great frozen drinks like their margaritas and frosé. Their Taste of New Orleans with gumbo, jambalaya, and more is great to share. The Tuna Poke Bowl with mango salsa and glass noodles is a nice healthy option. 869 Magazine St., 504-577-2202, flamingonola.com

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BUY 1, GET 1 25% OFF of equal or lesser value, one coupon per customer per day not valid with other offers, po-boys and gumbo only.

Expires February 28, 2022

WhereYat.com | February 2022

RESTAURANT GUIDE The Peacock Room describes itself as an “elevated” cocktail bar. The Peacock Burger with bacon-boursin cheese and tomato jam is particularly delicious. Take your date or significant other to one of the most romantic date spots in the city. 501 Tchoupitoulas St., 504-324-3073, peacockroomnola.com Stumpy's Hatchet House is great for bachelor or bachelorette parties, so let the hatchets fly! The hot and fresh popcorn goes great with the cold beer Stumpy’s offers. The nachos from the snack bar are also great for sharing. 1200 Poydras St., 504-577-2937, stumpyshh.com/neworleansla

CAFE Bearcat Café has fantastic outdoor seating at both locations. Enjoy delicious breakfast cocktails at the bar at Bearcat Café’s CBD location. The Crab Scramble with asparagus and potatoes and the Cat Daddy Biscuit with chicken, gravy, and an egg are perfect. Multiple Locations, bearcatcafe.com Café Amelie offers menus that are perfect for a romantic date night or a Sunday brunch. Their lit-up courtyard adds great ambiance for special occasions or private events. For the true Amelie experience, try their signature Short Ribs & Johnny Cakes dish. 912 Royal St., 504-412-8965, cafeamelie.com Caffe! Caffe! has won a number of awards for their quality food. Come early for some delicious breakfast or go during lunch for a refreshing salad, sandwich, or wrap. The Metairie location hosts a beautiful patio that overlooks Transcontinental Boulevard. Multiple Locations, caffecaffe.com Carmo has a truly eclectic menu to enjoy. The Broken Noodle Salad offers a delicious taste of Asia and the Kottu is a great stir-fried roti dish with roots from Sri Lanka. Not only that, the Rico, topped with house-smoked pulled pork, is really good. 527 Julia St., 504-875-4132, cafecarmo.com Jimmy J’s Café is a local gem that embraces the funky spirit of the city. Their menu offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner options, as well as weekly specials. Plan ahead because the line starts early for lunch at this popular establishment. 115 Chartres St., 504-309-9360, jimmyjscafe.com MISA is a chic restaurant with a delicious menu by Chef Tal Sharon. Order the Moroccan Frena Bread as an appetizer and then dig into the Royal Indian Lambshank Stew. Don’t miss out on creative cocktails like the Sexy Fish or Ginger Evil. 4734 Magazine St., 504-510-2791, misanola.com Please U Restaurant provides a very pleasing dining experience and has been operating in New Orleans since 1946. They’re a great spot to visit before going to see some Carnival parades. They offer some great Greek food like gyros and Greek salads. 1751 St. Charles Ave., 504-525-9131, pleaseunola.com Riccobono’s Panola Street Café is popular with locals and Uptown students alike. Their Crabcake Benedict is considered to be an all-time neighborhood favorite. Their Silver Dollar Pancakes are great with a side of eggs and bacon. 7801 Panola St., 504-314-1810, panolastreetcafe.com The Ruby Slipper Cafe has locations all over the Gulf South. The Bananas Foster Pain Perdu is great for those with a sweet tooth and the Chicken St. Charles is definitely for those who love fried chicken. Get the Migas with spicy chorizo for a taste of Mexico. Multiple Locations, therubyslippercafe.net Willa Jean celebrates Southern flavors with its fresh and local ingredients. Try anything from their delicious “Biscuit Station,” like the Fried Chicken Biscuit. Their Croque Madame sandwich

Mardi Gras Manual | Where Y'at Magazine

is really fantastic. They also have Saturday and Sunday brunch! 611 O’Keefe Ave., 504-509-7334, willajean.com

FRENCH Cafe Degas gives a taste of NOLA’s roots by serving authentic French cuisine. The Roasted Quail and Veal Liver are just a few of their many adventurous dishes. Try the mouthwatering Belgium Waffle or their French Onion Soup. 3127 Esplanade Ave., 504-945-5635, cafedegas.com

ITALIAN A Tavola Restaurant & Wine Bar has Pan-Fried Crab Cakes that are packed to the brim with delicious lump crab meat. The Beef Short Rib Brasato is particularly amazing. The Pepperoni Pizza will surely please your little ones. 3413 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, 504-577-2235, atavo.la The Crazy Italian Pizzeria gives you New York pizza without having to leave the city. Try the Mount Vesuvius Shrimp tossed in a spicy remoulade sauce. All of their classic Italian dishes will leave you very full and satisfied. 206 W. Harrison Ave., 504-766-7914, thecrazyitalianpizzeria.com Josephine Estelle provides some of the freshest Louisiana seafood in your pasta. Keep it traditional or go fancy with many of their other delicious fusion dishes! The Instagram worthy dishes will leave you feeling happy and full. 600 Carondelet St., 504-930-3070, josephineestelle.com Mid-City Pizza has all kinds of great pizzas to choose from. The Meat Monster is packed with pepperoni, hot sausage, meatball, bacon, and ham. Mid-City Pizza’s Uptown location is across the street from Tulane’s football stadium, so grab a slice before the game! Multiple Locations, midcitypizza.com Mosca’s Restaurant is best enjoyed with a large group to share all of the family-style food. Their famous Oysters Mosca is a seafoodlover’s dream. Get two orders of the Pasta Alioi because you’ll definitely want extra! 4137 US-90 W., Westwego, 504-436-8950, moscasrestaurant.com Nephew’s Ristorante has a long history of preparing Sicilian food for Metairie's residents. Chef Frank Catalonotto previously served delicious Sicilian meals at Tony Angello’s. Pair any one of their delicious entrees with their large wine selection. 4445 W. Metairie Ave., Metairie, 504-533-9998, nephewsristorante.com Pascal’s Manale has one of the city’s best happy hours. Their crab cake is great and features jumbo lump crab meat mixed with their house mayo. They have private rooms that are perfect for holiday parties and special occasions. 1838 Napoleon Ave., 504-895 4877, pascalsmanale.com Red Gravy has a cozy outdoor patio that’s perfect for brunch or dinner. The Brulee French Toast with caramel, pecans, and fruit is a perfect brunch dish. The Lasagna Bolognese is also very mouth-watering and is great for a cold night. 4206 Magazine St., 504-561-8844, redgravycafe.com Tavolino Pizza & Lounge is located in beautiful Algiers Point, right by the ferry terminal. While there, don’t miss out on their specialty pizzas like the Behrman Hwy Pizza! Drink inside or outside on one of their two cozy patios. 141 Delaronde St., Algiers, 504-605-3365, instagram.com/tavolinonola Venezia has one of the best tasting Chicken Parmigiana dishes in the city. The Eggplant Vatican with shrimp and crawfish is a popular dish for lovers of eggplant. The fried calamari appetizer is a huge portion, so don’t be shy and

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RESTAURANT GUIDE dig in! 134 N. Carrollton Ave., 504-488-7991, venezianeworleans.net

MEXICAN

SPRING RESTAURANT GUIDE

Carreta’s Grill has been serving Mexican cuisine across NOLA for over 20 years. With burritos, enchiladas, margaritas, and more, it's the perfect spot for your next fiesta! Known for their great margaritas, good luck trying to not have more than one! Multiple Locations, carretasgrillrestaurant.com Juan’s Flying Burrito has one of the best collections of tequila in New Orleans. Juan’s Blackened Fish Tacos, as well as the Jerk Chicken Street Tacos, are really fantastic. All of their locations feature outdoor dining, so enjoy the winter air! Multiple Locations, juansflyingburrito.com

many awards. The Mumbo Gumbo truly has it all: chicken, shrimp, crab meat, and crawfish. 2309 N. Causeway Blvd., Metairie, 504-835-2022, gumbostop.com Copeland’s of New Orleans not only has locations all over Louisiana, but also in parts of the South. Their Cajun Gumbo Ya Ya provides a classic taste of Louisiana and the steak filet is sure to satisfy your appetite. They also offer their own catering! Multiple Locations, copelandsofneworleans.com Curio has Chilled Blue Crab Claws that are a great appetizer for your meal. Their French Toast with two farm fresh eggs and bacon is a great choice for brunch. They also have a unique gumbo of roast duck, black-eyed peas, and andouille sausage. 301 Royal St., 504-7174198, curionola.com

Mr. Tequila Bar & Grill is owned and operated by three brothers originally from Mexico. Enjoy one of the best margaritas in Uptown at their beautiful bar. The grill not only serves authentic Mexican cuisine, but Tex-Mex as well. 5018 Freret St., 504-766-9660, mrtequilanola.com

MIDDLE EASTERN

Saj has an upscale, funky décor, making it a unique place to visit. Their namesake bread is a house-baked treat that is popular in the Middle East. Saj’s outdoor tables provide a great view of the action on Magazine Street while sipping on a mocktail. 4126 Magazine St., 504-766-0049, sajnola.com

NEW ORLEANS CUISINE Akasia’s Café has some of the best daily specials on the Westbank. Put fish, chicken, or a pork chop on top of their tasty Red Beans and Rice on Mondays. Also known for their catering menu, this is the perfect spot to cater your next event. 5600 Westbank Expy., Marrero, 504-345-2563, letuscaterforyou.org Annunciation offers specialty Creole dishes that are great for adventurous eaters. There's something on the menu to impress everyone, like the really tasty Grilled Lamb Chops. Their Warehouse location guarantees a fun filled night before and after dinner. 1016 Annunciation St., 504-568-0245, annunciationrestaurant.com Briquette offers some of the best fish selections in town. The Oysters Bienville en Casserole appetizer is great for sharing and the Lump Crab Bisque is a super soup for a cold winter evening. The Charred Kale Salad is a delicious healthy option. 701 S. Peters St., 504-302-7496, briquette-nola.com Bywater Brew Pub is a great spot for delicious Vietnamese and Louisiana flavors, as well as seasonal brewed beer. The Phoritto is so big, there’s enough to take home afterwards. The Beer Beignet Bites are a unique and tasty after dinner treat. 3000 Royal St., 504-766-8118, bywaterbrewpub.com Cafe 615 (Home of Da Wabbit) has some of the best fried chicken in all of Gretna. Da Wabbit Hamburger Steak is a must-try for those who love beef. They also have a truly fantastic Turtle Soup with sherry and Crab Meat Stuffed Mushrooms. 615 Kepler St., Gretna, 504-365-1225, cafe615.com Chef Ron’s Gumbo Stop offers a ton of different gumbo options to enjoy. The loaded po-boys are great and have led the restaurant to receive

Mardi Gras Manual | Where Y'at Magazine

New Orleans Creole Cookery Daisy Dukes was named Winner of Best Bloody Mary 2021 by Where Y’at readers. The restaurant creates that perfect Southern atmosphere for enjoying Cajun cuisine. With seven locations, there are many opportunities for you to try their classic dishes. Multiple Locations, daisydukesrestaurant.com Evangeline has a charming atmosphere that is perfect for special occasions. Start off with golden fried okra, fried green tomatoes, or fried alligator for an appetizer. Eat entrees straight from the bayou like the mouthwatering Crawfish and Grits dish. 329 Decatur St., 504-373-4852, evangelineneworleans.com Houmas House & Gardens contains three restaurants in a beautiful mansion and plantation. The Carriage House offers Louisiana-inspired fare and the Dixie Cafe offers local-style cafe food. Latil’s Landing provides a finer dining experience. 401336 LA-942, Darrow, 225-473-9380, houmashouse.com House of Blues New Orleans provides great live music for anyone looking for a night on the town. Their menu is Southern-inspired and is filled with many scrumptious treats. Make sure to order the Yardbird chicken sandwich. 225 Decatur St., 504-310-4999, houseofblues.com/neworleans Legacy Kitchen’s Craft Tavern has a great location in the Warehouse District. The Crawfish Cornbread Skillet is worth the trip alone! Craft Tavern’s Tuna Tango Salad with avocado and mango and The Blue Cheese Truffle Chips are great. 700 Tchoupitoulas St., 504-613-2350, legacykitchen.com Luke specializes in Creole inspired seafood like Shrimp and Grits. They’re also known for their raw bar, which serves anything from oysters and more. Chef Erick Loos’ dishes highlight local purveyors and farmers’ market ingredients. 333 St. Charles Ave., 504-378-2840, lukeneworleans.com

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Lebanon’s Café offers some of the best Middle Eastern food in New Orleans. The Chargrilled Rosemary Lamb Chops and the lentil soup are real treats! Lebanon’s is BYOB, so bring some Almaza beer to make your dinner authentic. 1500 S. Carrollton Ave., 504-862-6200, lebanonscafe.com

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RESTAURANT GUIDE

Small batch MADE FROM SCR ATCH

Mandina’s Restaurant has an oyster po-boy that is absolutely delicious. Grab a craft cocktail or some wine at their spacious bar while you wait for your table. The delicious eggplant sticks are great for the whole table to enjoy as an appetizer. 3800 Canal St., 504-482-9179, mandinasrestaurant.com

Short Stop Po-boys has a very convenient drivethru and has been feeding Metairie since 1966. Their Seafood Gumbo with crab meat and shrimp can be a perfect side dish to your meal. Their Roast Beef Po-boy ranks with the city’s best! 119 Transcontinental Dr., Metairie, 504-8854572, shortstoppoboysno.com

Melba’s Poboys is open 24/7, so enjoy their poboys whenever you feel like it. Not only do they have great po-boys, they also have an amazing daiquiri selection. Wash World is right next door, so you can do your laundry while you eat at Melba’s. 1525 Elysian Fields Ave., 504-267-7765, melbas.com

Trenasse serves Gulf Coast cuisine with Southern Louisiana style and flare. Go for brunch, Taco Tuesday, dinner, happy hour, or just to simply devour some oysters. The Smoky Braised Short Ribs with cheese grits are highly recommended. 444 St. Charles Ave., 504-680-7000, trenasse.com

Mother’s Restaurant has some of the city's best sweet potato pie. The Famous Ferdi Special Po-boy with baked ham and roast beef is spectacular. The restaurant is super popular, so make sure to arrive early on weekends to avoid the line. 401 Poydras St., 504-523-9656, mothersrestaurant.net

The Vintage is a great spot to people-watch or to take a date after shopping on Magazine Street. The Fancy Beignet Flight is a nice sampler to start out with. The Vintage also has some of the best selections of sparkling wines in town. 3121 Magazine St., 504-324-7144, thevintagenola.com

New Orleans Creole Cookery has heated courtyard seating, which is perfect for winter! They have fantastic oyster happy hour pricings in the bar. Chef Alex Patout’s Crab Cakes are the real deal and the Vegetarian Jambalaya is a great choice. 510 Toulouse St., 504-524-9632, neworleanscreolecookery.com

Willie Mae’s Scotch House has a truly amazing and famous fried chicken sandwich. The Red Beans and Rice are a great tasting and classic side dish and the bread pudding with white chocolate and rum sauce is a great dessert choice. They cater too! Multiple Locations, williemaesnola.com

New Orleans Vampire Café has some of the best burgers in the French Quarter, like the Dracula Burger. The Fried Deviled Eggs with caviar are a truly unique treat. The café’s Tuna Tartare goes particularly great with the “bloody” cocktails. 801 Royal St., 504-581-0801, nolavampirecafe.com

SEAFOOD

Neyow’s Creole Café is home to some of the best gumbo and red beans around. Their large servings are perfect for sharing meals with your friends. Neyow’s chargrilled oysters, crawfish balls, crab claws, and signature cocktails are always top notch. 3332 Bienville St., 504-827-5474, neyows.com

The Blue Crab Restaurant & Oyster Bar proudly serves only the freshest Louisiana seafood. Enjoy the Pontchartrain breeze at their Lakefront or Northshore locations. Blue Crab’s happy hour is every Tuesday through Thursday from 4-6:30 p.m. Multiple Locations, thebluecrabnola.com Casamento’s Restaurant has been serving some of the finest Louisiana seafood since 1919. It’s a must-go spot for tourists exploring the most classic joints in the city. The Oyster Loaf will absolutely leave you absolutely speechless. 4330 Magazine St., 504-895-9761, casamentosrestaurant.com Felix’s Restaurant & Oyster Bar has tons of fantastic options for oysters, served in multiple different ways. Grab a table at the Lakefront location to see the sunset along with live music. Definitely order the soft-shell crab, as well as the blackened alligator appetizer. Multiple Locations, felixs.com The Galley Seafood had their start in 1977 and are most famous for their Soft-Shell Crab Po-boy and Catfish Filet Po-boy. Their Corn Grits are a perfect side dish for any of their entrees. Make sure to try the Hot Sausage Sandwich as well! 2535 Metairie Rd., Metairie, 504-832-0955, thegalleyseafood.net

Orleans Grapevine has one of the city’s best wines by the glass menus. Sip on any of their wines at their beautiful outdoor courtyard, steps away from Jackson Square. Their Baked Brie with your choice of topping is great for sharing with your date. 720 Orleans Ave., 504-523-1930, orleansgrapevine.com

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Restaurant R’evolution is located inside the beautiful Royal Sonesta New Orleans. The restaurant and bar gives off a cool Pre-Prohibition atmosphere. Try the different caviar and end your meal with the Louisiana Citrus Doberge. 777 Bienville St., 504-553-2277, revolutionnola.com Roux Bistro is located inside the beautiful Sheraton Hotel on Canal Street. They specialize in contemporary Creole and Cajun classics, such as a breakfast po-boy or the Gulf shrimp with grits. Grab a café au lait for a true New Orleans after meal treat. 500 Canal St., 504-525-2500 ext. 5795, marriott.com

Seaworthy, given the name, is the perfect spot for seafood lovers. Their menu lets you explore seafood from all of the fishing locations around the country. Try something from their long list of exciting cocktails to accompany your seafood. 630 Carondelet St., 504-930-3071, seaworthynola.com Spahr’s Seafood is committed to serving their customers an authentic Cajun experience. It’s home to “The Original” Catfish Chips, gumbo, Bloody Mary’s, hamburger steak, and more. Spahr’s is an essential visit if you’re looking for a classic Louisiana meal. Multiple Locations, spahrsseafood.com Tito’s Ceviche & Pisco allows you to take a trip abroad while staying right here in NOLA. Their mouthwatering, authentic Peruvian cuisine is equally delicious and beautiful. Try their award winning Pisco Sours and other pisco cocktails. 5015 Magazine St., 504-267-7612, titoscevichepisco.com

ROBERT WITKOWSKI

The Blue Crab

Legacy Kitchen’s Tacklebox has amazing beignets offered for breakfast. Their Thin Fried Catfish Pecan is some of the city’s best tasting fish and the Shrimp Louie Wedge Salad is a great way to start the meal. They have some great ice-cold raw oysters to slurp up! 817 Common St., 504-8271651, legacykitchen.com

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Bar Guide

Drink Food Specials

Alto offers some truly great views of New Orleans. After you’re done chilling in the rooftop pool, order yourself some thirst-quenching cocktails like the Paloma or the Great Ulysses. Banks Street Bar is a true neighborhood bar in Mid-City. Banks Street Bar While enjoying their beer, chow down on the different 4401 Banks St. traditional Louisiana dishes that they provide like po-boys, 504-486-0258 gumbo, and oysters. Not only is Bar Marilou very trendy, the food and drinks on Bar Marilou offer are fantastic. There are all kinds of fancy sounding 544 Carondelet St. drinks to choose from, such as the Jardin De Mémé and 504-814-7711 the Heloïse. Providing an upscale experience, Blue Ruin offers beers Blue Ruin Speakeasy on tap, craft cocktails, and a great wine list, as well as 3224 Metairie Rd. seasonal craft cocktail and martini menus. Happy hour is 504-835-3335 on Mondays thru Thursdays. Confectionary Craft Cocktail Bar The Confectionary Craft Cocktail Bar should be included if you and your friends plan on bar hopping through New 727 S. Peters St. Orleans. You’ll find a number of specialty and sweet drinks 504-558-1914 on offer. This bar and grill is a special spot in the Garden District for Down the Hatch delicious and reasonably priced food and drinks. The Hell’s 1921 Sophie Wright Pl. Kitchen Wings are delicious, as well as the many different 504-522-0909 starters, sandwiches, and burgers. Evangeline’s courtyard is perfect for sipping on some of Evangeline the locally craft beers they offer. The Rum Punch and 329 Decatur St. Strawberry Blonde cocktails are also fruity and delicious. 504-373-4852 Happy hour is from 3 to 6 p.m. daily. The Fillmore prides itself in providing legendary experiences Fillmore New Orleans to its patrons. Not only is it the perfect setting for live 6 Canal St. entertainment, the creative food, signature cocktails, and craft 504-881-1555 beer are all great. Alto (Ace Hotel) 600 Carondelet St. 504-900-1180

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House of Blues 225 Decatur St. 504-310-4999

Not only is the live entertainment at House of Blues great, the Southern-inspired food and refreshing drinks are fantastic as well! You can enjoy plenty of the different beer and cocktails.

Jazz Daiquiris 3400 S. Claiborne Ave., # A 504-899-8761

Jazz Daiquiris & Lounge’s claim to fame are their specialty daiquiris. Choose from a variety of flavors like Pina Colada, Jungle Juice, Blue Magic, Triple Threat, and more.

Jimani 141 Chartres St. 504-524-0493

If you want to see all of the hottest sports action, then you need to go the Jimani. A New Orleans favorite for over 40 years, the bar has over 100 beers that you can choose from! Lots A Luck Tavern was recently voted as the #1 spot for bar games in New Orleans by Where Y’at Magazine’s readers. Try your hand at mini golf or cornhole or sip a refreshing drink at their outdoor seating area. If you’d like to see the next Saints or LSU game on over 30 flat screens, then you have to go to Manning’s Sports Bar. Get into a local sports mood by ordering the Manning’s Mardi Gras Punch. Martine’s provides a very friendly and comfortable atmosphere in Old Metairie. Not only is there darts and video poker, they serve up great wines, tasty cocktails, and a large selection of beer. Located in Generations Hall, the Metropolitan is a great venue option for anyone looking to party the night away. The space offers two-stories filled with dancefloors, spaces for DJs, and multiple bars. Pal’s Lounge is the perfect place to be if you feel like having a drink at “witching hour.” Stay awake with their house cocktails, beers, and many other different kinds of brews.

Lots A Luck Tavern 203 Homedale St. 504-483-0978 Manning’s 519 Fulton St. 504-593-8118 Martine’s Lounge 2347 Metairie Rd. 504-831-8637 The Metropolitan 310 Andrew Higgins Blvd. 504-568-1702, Pal’s Lounge 949 N. Rendon St. 504-488-7257 Peacock Room 501 Tchoupitoulas St. 504-324-3073 The Pelican Bar (Sheraton) 500 Canal St. 504-525-2500

Rendon Inn 4501 Eve St. 504-218-7106

Not only does the Pool Club offer great views of the city, you can also relax in their pool or jam to the sounds provided by their resident DJ. Grab an umbrella drink and enjoy! Rendon Inn has been providing the food, drinks, and good company in Mid-City for over 85 years. Grab some food while enjoying different domestic and draft beers, as well as wine and specialty drinks.

Royal Frenchmen Hotel 700 Frenchmen St., #1614 504-619-9660

This award-winning bar in the Royal Frenchmen Hotel has a stylish ambiance, live entertainment, and a beautiful courtyard. The delicious specialty cocktails are truly amazing.

Stumpy’s Hatchet House 1200 Poydras St., Suite C 504-577-2937

Stumpy’s is the best place in NOLA to try your hand at throwing a hatchet. After you work up a sweat, you can grab some food and drinks while there. Have a day out with your friends! Tracey’s is a fantastic place to hang out at, and not just for St. Patrick’s Day! Their extensive beer catalog includes hundreds of different bottles and six draught taps.

The Pool Club 550 Baronne St. 833-791-7700

Tracey’s Irish Channel Bar 2604 Magazine St. 504-897-5413 Tropical Isle Multiple Locations 504-523-1927

Mardi Gras Manual | Where Y'at Magazine

Offering an elevated cocktail bar experience, The Peacock Room’s large drink menu has anything you could want. Perhaps you’d like one of the “Old Birds” like a Sazerac or the Washouko Mary. You’ll get a real taste of New Orleans charm while sipping on the Pelican Bar’s specialty cocktails. Grab a bite to eat and make sure to order some red, white, or sparkling wines.

Tropical Isle helps make Bourbon Street so internationally famous. Everyone knows that if you go to Tropical Isle, you gotta get a Hand Grenade, aka New Orleans’ "most powerful drink."

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TALES FROM THE QUARTER By Debbie Lindsey

The Eventual Forever After for the latest updates on parade routes throughout the entire Mardi Gras season

Mardi Gras Manual | Where Y'at Magazine

hen I was young, back when dinosaurs did the disco, I vowed two things—never would I own a car or get married. Well, times change (as did disco) and a hurricane and its near-death swipe at us forced our investment of $1,500 into an evacuation clunker. I still maintain no driver’s license, however today I co-own a ’97 Lincoln (incapable of contraflow but gets us around town). Also, I now have a marriage license and a four-year anniversary coming up this May 16th. I may not co-own a husband, but I do drive him crazy on a regular basis, and I am proudly united in love with him. Environmental and economical logic was my motivation to avoid a car for decades (and my reasoning still holds true and sound). Additionally, my disdain for the “institution of marriage” still rings in my ear, but my heart is that of a romantic, and I am grateful I relented and said yes to his reoccurring proposal of several years. There was much about the trappings of marriage that just didn’t sit right with me. For instance, why is the legal system involved in my choice of who I shake the sheets or share household chores with? And what’s with that whole ring thing? It seems like an overpriced ball-andchain. Jewelry is cool, but a diamond ring procured by slave labor is bad karma. Times have certainly improved the protocol, but remember that when I was growing up, a woman (a grown-ass woman, an adult, an individual) was expected to take the man’s name—to honor and obey that man—and her father was to “give her away” after being asked permission by the wannabe husband? No wonder it just sat like sour milk with me. Happily, times have changed. Women feel comfortable keeping their own name, picking their own mate without permission or approval, forgoing the debt of a fancy ceremony, choosing a tattoo rather than a ring, and damn sure not regurgitating the words “honor and obey.” And now a woman can marry a woman if she wishes. Thank you Supreme Court for making same-sex marriage a constitutional right. Thanks to changing times and attitudes, the prospect of Boyfriend becoming Husband was remarkably more palatable than I would have imagined. Still, I was in no hurry. Sure, I knew he was the one for me and that I wanted to be in a committed relationship with him forever, but, still and all, why conform to making it legal? Our cats and dogs didn’t give a flip whether we were living in sin or not. The Lincoln was already legally mine. And our landlord didn’t care. So why do it? Did he think I would gain some financial security if we were married and he skipped off to that heavenly bar above before me? Inheriting

debt is more like it. No, I think it was a gesture of romance. And that became clear when he proposed, on bended knee, in the storeroom of our shop, next to the trash can. Now, what girl could turn that down? I guess I kinda accepted his request for marital bliss. I mean I remember telling my friend Dawn about it and allowed her to offer a backyard cookout reception for somewhere, sometime, in the sort of near, maybe not too far off, future. So about a year or so later, it became official as he was heading to the store one evening for some dog food and asked if I needed anything. I answered, “Wine. But do you need some money or do you have money?” And he replied, “Yes. I have money. So will you marry me for my money?” I gave a thumbs-up and said, “Sure. And make it Chardonnay.” He became the gather and hunter of all necessary paperwork, identifications, and documents. His leather briefcase became his dowry. He was gonna seal the deal, make it real. He was committed. The day of the walk down the aisle, or rather to the bus stop, and then to the department of licenses and stuff on Poydras, was all spur of the moment—for he knew how we both could procrastinate. “Come on, Debbie, let’s take a ride downtown and at least get our license. No, Debbie, ya look fine, just throw on something, grab your identification. If nothing else, we’ll see what, if anything, is missing from our paperwork.” So there we were half awake after a long previous evening of working our weekly Taco Tuesday Pop-up and still smelling of grilled onions and garlic. My dress was in need of laundering, he needed a shave, I couldn’t remember if either of us passed a toothbrush near our teeth, and, well, it didn’t really matter since we were just gonna get the pre-wedding documents in order—not a big deal. “That will be $45. Sign here. And would you like to get married today? Here is a list of the three judges across the street at City Hall, and they require cash.” We called, found a judge to officiate in her courtroom at one that afternoon—enough time to visit the bank for $80 cash, enjoy our wedding luncheon at our favorite Thai café, then a fancy hotel (lobby) to digest our pad thai, take a sitting-up cat nap on the lobby couch, and get ready for the Happily Ever After stroll to City Hall. The judge was instructed to make sure my last name didn’t change and make certain no “honor or obey” words were used. She loaned us some plastic flowers and took her cash-only fee. She was very sweet and, to our surprise, also under investigation as of that evening by investigative reporter, Lee Zurick, for possible illegal marriage fees. Only in New Orleans! And we wouldn’t change one bit of our wedding day—it suited us just fine.

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PO-BOY VIEWS

By Phil LaMancusa

American Pie or Beginner’s Luck

hutzpah: a Yiddish term for “audacity for good or for bad.” As in, “Imagine the chutzpah he had to make that kind of journey.” For me, that word describes anyone who would pack up their family and belongings, leave a possible generational homeland, and travel to a strange country (likely not even knowing the language and/ or customs) for a better life. The words that come to mind are: immigrant, refugee, and expatriate. And they come in two tiers. The first are the ones that come without knowing anything; they settle, take the bad with the good and are literally pioneers. The second are the ones that follow, those sent for: wives, family, betrothed, or necessarily abandoned. There are also those that come indentured: Asians, Europeans, and most notably Africans. They come, they’re brought, they’re sent for, and they endure. I'm a second generation American, so this seed has not fallen far from the tree; all four of my grandparents were not born here. They came for a better life—they came to escape poverty, violence, and oppressive politics. One of my grandmothers was sent for as a child bride. They brought their stories, customs, food, and languages; they had children and their children had children. The pioneer that crosses the plains in a covered wagon is not much different than the refugee who travels in the bowels

of a tramp steamer, crosses from the Caribbean in an inflatable raft, or trudges through the southern desert to Laredo, Texas. They “pays their money and they takes their chances.” They endure—they endure because they have to or they’ll perish. The generational endurance of the people that were kidnapped and enslaved is legendary and ongoing. The pioneers and the persecuted endure hardship, hunger, haranguing, hatred, and exploitation. They’re cat-called with racial and ethnic slurs: kikes, rag heads, beaners, greasers, chinks, slopeheads, spics, and that n-word that we’re not allowed to say or print. My own people were called micks, krauts, and wops. Those that have been here for a few generations forget the fact their people once were immigrants and discourage this country from taking in “foreigners” (many “foreigners” want to come here) from places like Korea, Syria, Afghanistan, Haiti, Ethiopia, China, Nigeria, Cuba, Somalia, and parts of Eastern Europe—the big one these days is Latinos from South and Central America and, of course, those pesky Mexicans. We hear: “The nerve of these people! They’ll take our jobs, our women, our language, and our way of life. Our last president called them ‘murderers and rapists.’ Look out! They’re coming across the border from the Middle East, Asia, Guatemala, and, hey, I hear that there

are even some Canadians that want in. Well, not on my watch! I’ll build a wall: a physical, social, and cultural wall. I’ll build an economic wall against hiring in any but the lowest forms of employment: fruit pickers, factory workers, domestic workers, sweatshop workers. What(?), we’ve already done that? Whew, good, I’m safe now. I can sleep easier knowing that if those tired, poor, huddled masses yearning to breathe free, the wretched refuse from those teaming shores, tries to get into Little Tommy’s play school or get a job in my local bank as anything but a janitor…” In 1868, Africans that were brought here as slaves were granted citizenship. June 2, 1924, President Calvin Coolidge signed into law the Indian Citizen Act, which gave the people that had been here for millennium the right of American Citizenship. 1935, my grandparents became American citizens. Did that make their lives any easier? Ask them. The walls we built still stand. It tears our hearts to see ragged malnourished kids, maimed puppies, or beaten horses. We cry for missing children, abandoned kittens, abused women, or those trafficked for pleasure or gain. As long as they don’t move into our backyard. Tendency wants us to say: “I don’t want a homeless shelter built in my neighborhood. I don’t want anyone panhandling in front of that restaurant that I frequent. Make them all just go away. I’ll feel sorry from a distance; I’ll even donate. I know that we’re all brothers, but I don’t want my brother sleeping in that doorway; it’s gross to look at. What will the children think?” The secure have a tendency to get

smug. Notwithstanding my white privilege, my people pulled themselves up by their bootstraps (we say), not realizing that some of our “brothers” have no bootstraps with which to pull. They’re sitting at the border waiting for a shot at asylum, eating donated food and dirt. I say let them all in; borders are imaginary lines in a global sandbox and it’s usually the biggest bully that gets the best corner. I say we adopt the world and let all those that have less share our abundances. Put them to work, give them education, healthcare, and fair housing (you know, stuff that we are not making available to all of our own citizens). The argument against that is, “We’ll go into debt; our children will go into debt; our grandchildren will have to pay this off.” That is the argument that comes from the financially secure politicians that already have comprehensive healthcare, paid holiday vacations, and free tuition for their children. If you adopted a person, or even a critter, and they needed care and assistance, wouldn’t you, out of love, go into debt? I would, and because of those types of Golden Rule values. I would pass that debt as well as that value to my children and my grandchildren. I would. After all, if we happen to accrue debt helping those less fortunate by letting them into the American Dreamland, wouldn’t we be passing that shared debt to their children and grandchildren? Think about that when you stop by that taco truck for a Carne Asada Burrito and ice cold Fanta—prepared by a future fellow citizen.

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FILM REVIEWS Scream By David Vicari

here is such little care in titling sequels these days that they can’t even lazily stick a number on the end, hence the new Scream movie, which is titled simply Scream, but it is actually the fifth Scream. Anyway, I found Scream (2022) to be the best Scream movie since Scream 2 (1997), which is my personal favorite in this slasher series. The new Scream is bloody, scary, funny, subversive, and meta as hell. It opens like the original Scream (1996), with a teenage girl home alone receiving a sinister phone call. The caller quizzes her on horror movies, and if she gets the questions wrong, it’s curtains for her. As usual, the call is from someone disguised in a Ghostface mask and using an electronic voice changer. This time, however, the victim, Tara (Jenna Ortega), survives, resulting in her troubled and estranged sister Sam (Melissa Barrera) re-entering her life. Soon, classic characters from the original films return. First, former deputy

Dewey Riley (David Arquette) is asked by Sam to help with the case. Then, news woman Gail Weathers (Courteney Cox) begins investigating, and lastly, “original final girl” Sidney Prescott (Neve Campbell) shows up after the bodies start piling up. Scream 5 plays out like a reboot or, as characters in the actual movie say, “a requel.” Yes, the characters we know and love turn up to pass the torch to a new, younger cast of characters. Of course, the new movie replicates set pieces from the first film, but the filmmakers add some wicked twists, and that is what really makes this one work. That, and the emotional drama at its core is good, even if it does slow the middle of the movie down a bit. In all the Scream movies, it feels kind of forced when characters go through the rules of horror movies, but there are some hilarious riffs on the lameness of reboots here. There is a funny jab at the recent Star Wars sequels, specifically The Last Jedi. Hell, there is even a sly reference to Quentin Tarantino’s Once Upon a Time...in Hollywood. This is the first Scream not directed by Wes Craven, who sadly passed away in 2015. The directors, Matt BettinelliOlpin and Tyler Gillett (Ready or Not), and writers, James Vanderbilt and Guy Busick, are respectful of Craven’s legacy.

The Tragedy of Macbeth By Fritz Esker

rector Joel Coen has a wildly varied filmography (Miller’s Crossing, Fargo, The Big Lebowski, No Country for Old Men) and he’s made another dramatic gear shift with The Tragedy of Macbeth. Based on Shakespeare’s classic play, The Tragedy of Macbeth tells the story of Scottish lord Macbeth (Denzel Washington), whose ambition leads him to murder the king (Brendan Gleeson). Macbeth’s wife (Frances McDormand) enthusiastically encourages the murder plot. If you’ve ever read the play or seen it performed on stage, chances are you know going in if you will find this worthwhile. My biggest criticism is one I would also level at the play. Macbeth is one of Shakespeare’s least sympathetic tragic leads. He is a greedy murderer, and it’s hard to care much about what happens to him or his wife at the end of the play. However, much of the dialogue remains strong (the “tomorrow, tomorrow, and tomorrow” speech is still chilling). Washington and McDormand, as expected, do fine work in the lead roles. And Coen’s use of black and white photography, combined with a sparse staging, gives the film a visually striking look. The characters may leave you cold, but the images will stick in your mind for a while.

Tucks Razes the Bar

The 355

By Fritz Esker

here could be a great female spy movie franchise waiting to happen, but Simon Kinberg’s new thriller The 355 sadly isn’t the start of one. Jessica Chastain plays an American secret agent who must team up with other female international operatives (Diane Kruger, Lupita Nyong’o, Fan Bingbing), as well as an endangered therapist (Penelope Cruz), to stop a decryption drive from falling into the wrong hands. If the bad guys get it, they can use it to do things like crash airplanes, destroy power grids, etc. (sort of like the MacGuffin from the far superior 1992 film Sneakers). Action movies depend on having strong villains. Even if the audience knows the hero/heroine will likely win, they have to feel as if the villain is too strong/smart to defeat. But The 355’s baddies are bland, dull non-entities. It never feels as if the heroines are up against impossible odds. The staging of the action scenes is also largely forgettable and the outcomes seem like a formality. Of the cast, Kruger acquits herself the best as the German operative.

Tucks has been seldomly known to follow all of the norms when it comes to carnival as it celebrates its 53rd year gracing the city of New Orleans with its irreverence. Founded in 1969, the Krewe of Tucks has its roots in New Orleans starting at Loyola by students who decided to create their own Carnival krewe after unsuccessfully trying to become white flambeaux carriers. This year the Krewe rolls celebrating the most unique Royals in Tucks (and possibly carnival) history. King Chris Beary, his daughters, Queens Caroline and Claire Beary, and Princess Mary Catherine Beary. The King and his Royal Court are excited to roll down the route and bring back the missing carnival joy to our city!

King William Christopher (“Chris”) Beary

COURTESY PARAMOUNT PICTURES / SPYGLASS MEDIA GROUP

In over 30 years with Tucks Chris is elated about reigning as King Tucks LIII. Chris captains several signature floats in Tucks, including, the infamous Funky Tucks, Funky Fox, Love Child and Funky Uncle Lounge. Chris has a unique and uplifting spirit wishing to bring culture, music and funk to the people! In his endeavors outside of Tucks he has practiced law for over 25 years while co-founding non-profits across the city directly impacting our community. Chris loves New Orleans and its culture and is excited to celebrate his reign with his Daughters Caroline (22), Claire (20), & Mary Catherine (18) this year. King Tucks LIII wishes everyone a wonderful Mardi Gras and looks forward to seeing all his family and friends during his reign!

Queens Caroline & Claire Beary Princess Mary Catherine Beary

Caroline is a senior English major, and member of Tri-delta sorority at Wake Forest University. Claire is a Sophomore marketing major at the University of Tennessee and M.C. is a senior at McGhee High School with aspirations of attending Sewanee or the University of Colorado-Boulder. All 3 monarchs have major interests in moving back to New Orleans once college is finished, pursuing a variety of passions. From Marketing, law to music, all 3 Beary girls have not fallen too far from the “Funk Tree” that Chris planted many years ago. In one way, shape or form, the Tucks Royals all represent a unique part of Tucks and our endless passion to bring culture, people and community together. May all of us have a wonderful reign and a safe carnival for all this year!

WhereYat.com | February 2022

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Latest Issue: February 2022—Mardi Gras Manual

Articles inside

Eats and Drinks Along Uptown Parades

Tales From the Quarter

Po-Boy Views

$20 & Under

Film Reviews

My Funny Valentine

Black Debutante and Carnival Balls

Lakeside2Riverside

Hypochondriac Guide to Mardi Gras

Dos and Don’ts of Online Dating

Northshore Parades

Getting Trashed: Carnival Cleanup

Homemade Carnival

Mardi Gras Safety Tips